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Another Arranged Marriage #1
The Infidelity Clause
“What are you talking about? Marry another man?”
Caspian, fourth son and yet still a Crown Prince of Gunkermal knew he was a party to a marriage contract. Arranged marriages were common in his family, and he expected the contract would cement various trade or security agreements with another country. He just didn't realize the other party to his contract was a full-grown man, who stepped off his ship and into Caspian's life as if he owned it.
How much is this marriage worth to our king again?
Nikolas, Crown Prince and only heir of Westland, arrived in Gunkermal to fulfill his part of a marriage contract that was six months in the making. He was under no illusions about his prospective spouse. By all accounts, his intended was a womanizer, a lay about, and was likely someone who fussed if Nikolas should use a wrong fork at dinner. That's why Nikolas insisted their marriage contract have an infidelity clause. He figured his spouse would invoke what was known as the "piss-off" clause before Christmas and he'd be free.
It’s far better to marry someone whose weaknesses we’re already aware of.
One man went into his marriage contract blindly. The other thought he knew everything there was to know about his intended spouse. When circumstances suggested that neither man knew what was actually going on, was there a possibility the marriage could work after all? And what did a pirate captain have to do with anything at all.
The Infidelity Clause is a whimsical story that is the result of the author's muse taking a holiday. If you are a fan of MM arranged marriage stories, set in a land with a dash of magic, and a double dose of humor, you might enjoy this one. The main characters in this story are adults, so intimate situations are described. Please store your e-book content responsibly.
Caspian, fourth son and yet still a Crown Prince of Gunkermal knew he was a party to a marriage contract. Arranged marriages were common in his family, and he expected the contract would cement various trade or security agreements with another country. He just didn't realize the other party to his contract was a full-grown man, who stepped off his ship and into Caspian's life as if he owned it.
How much is this marriage worth to our king again?
Nikolas, Crown Prince and only heir of Westland, arrived in Gunkermal to fulfill his part of a marriage contract that was six months in the making. He was under no illusions about his prospective spouse. By all accounts, his intended was a womanizer, a lay about, and was likely someone who fussed if Nikolas should use a wrong fork at dinner. That's why Nikolas insisted their marriage contract have an infidelity clause. He figured his spouse would invoke what was known as the "piss-off" clause before Christmas and he'd be free.
It’s far better to marry someone whose weaknesses we’re already aware of.
One man went into his marriage contract blindly. The other thought he knew everything there was to know about his intended spouse. When circumstances suggested that neither man knew what was actually going on, was there a possibility the marriage could work after all? And what did a pirate captain have to do with anything at all.
The Infidelity Clause is a whimsical story that is the result of the author's muse taking a holiday. If you are a fan of MM arranged marriage stories, set in a land with a dash of magic, and a double dose of humor, you might enjoy this one. The main characters in this story are adults, so intimate situations are described. Please store your e-book content responsibly.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2022
67 people are currently reading
462 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Oliver
210 books951 followersLisa Oliver had been writing non-fiction books for years when visions of half dressed, buff men started invading her dreams. Unable to resist the lure of her stories, Lisa decided to switch to fiction books, and now stories about her men clamor to get out from under her fingertips.
When Lisa is not writing, she is usually reading with a cup of tea always at hand. Her grown children and grandchildren sometimes try and pry her away from the computer and have found that the best way to do it, is to promise her chocolate. Lisa will do anything for chocolate.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers and other writers. You can friend her on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/lisaoliverauthor), or email her directly at yoursintuitively@gmail.com. If you want to chat with her on Skype, then email for contact details.
When Lisa is not writing, she is usually reading with a cup of tea always at hand. Her grown children and grandchildren sometimes try and pry her away from the computer and have found that the best way to do it, is to promise her chocolate. Lisa will do anything for chocolate.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers and other writers. You can friend her on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/lisaoliverauthor), or email her directly at yoursintuitively@gmail.com. If you want to chat with her on Skype, then email for contact details.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
October 27, 2024
This is a fun, enjoyable read. Very lighthearted.
It's extremely engaging from the very beginning. Nikolas and Caspian are both quite compelling in their own unique ways. Nikolas is confident, charming, compassionate, and astute. And with Caspian, what you hear and (initially) see is definitely not what you get.
The palace intrigue is shocking and scandalous. It's no wonder that Caspian had acted out in such a situation.
The rescue from the pirates is a true turning point for both of them, and the intimacy it brings is touching.
The wedding is simple and poignant.
I really savored this book--and I think the best part is the last three words. Very much looking forward to it!
It's extremely engaging from the very beginning. Nikolas and Caspian are both quite compelling in their own unique ways. Nikolas is confident, charming, compassionate, and astute. And with Caspian, what you hear and (initially) see is definitely not what you get.
The palace intrigue is shocking and scandalous. It's no wonder that Caspian had acted out in such a situation.
The rescue from the pirates is a true turning point for both of them, and the intimacy it brings is touching.
The wedding is simple and poignant.
I really savored this book--and I think the best part is the last three words. Very much looking forward to it!
September 15, 2022
DNF at 67%
April 11, 2023
Truly the Microsoft WordArt of books. And book covers.
July 10, 2022
Juvenile writing. All fluff and no substance.
I read all of the 5 star reviews and thought I would try reading a new author’s book. OMG, I wasted my money. This storyline was complete fluff and so unrealistic. Sure many of you will response with, “of course, it is about, magic and pirates” and suspending realism is a given. But that’s not what I am talking about. One of the main characters fell in love with the other within 36 hours of having met. The other character, Caspian was straight. Never with a man or even thought about it. But he agreed to marriage to a man within 24 hours and then quickly followed with sure let’s explore sex. The entire story felt juvenile and worse yet, the author could have easily replaced one of the male character with a female name and called this a traditional historic romance book. The worse kind of MM story telling in my opinion. I won’t be reading this author again.
I read all of the 5 star reviews and thought I would try reading a new author’s book. OMG, I wasted my money. This storyline was complete fluff and so unrealistic. Sure many of you will response with, “of course, it is about, magic and pirates” and suspending realism is a given. But that’s not what I am talking about. One of the main characters fell in love with the other within 36 hours of having met. The other character, Caspian was straight. Never with a man or even thought about it. But he agreed to marriage to a man within 24 hours and then quickly followed with sure let’s explore sex. The entire story felt juvenile and worse yet, the author could have easily replaced one of the male character with a female name and called this a traditional historic romance book. The worse kind of MM story telling in my opinion. I won’t be reading this author again.
September 17, 2022
The good
+ Nikolas seeing the real Caspian
+ Caspian trusting Nikolas enough to show his true self
+ Nikolas protecting Caspian, without being overbearing
+ How evenly matched they are, with talents in different areas
+ Caspian with children
+ Nikolas wanting to take it slow for Caspian, but still being completely honest about both his emotional and physical reactions to him
+ Nikolas' dad
+ Caspian's glorious moment over Favo
+ There will be a sequel!
The neutral
o There was no final interaction between the main characters and that stupid prince and his wife. I hope the sequel will have that
o The intricacies of the way their world worked were a little lost on me. There was magic, and technology, but all communication seemed to be happening with paper messages. I'd also like a little more information on the World Court
The bad
- Most of the 'fight' against the Gunkermal family happened while they were in different countries. I was missing the satisfaction of seeing their reactions
I admit I was a little on the fence about trying this book. But damn am I glad I did. I loved this story, the connection between the main characters, and the way they handled all the problems that arose. I can't express how gleeful I felt when I read there are plans for a sequel. Hell yes. Would definitely recommend.
+ Nikolas seeing the real Caspian
+ Caspian trusting Nikolas enough to show his true self
+ Nikolas protecting Caspian, without being overbearing
+ How evenly matched they are, with talents in different areas
+ Caspian with children
+ Nikolas wanting to take it slow for Caspian, but still being completely honest about both his emotional and physical reactions to him
+ Nikolas' dad
+ Caspian's glorious moment over Favo
+ There will be a sequel!
The neutral
o There was no final interaction between the main characters and that stupid prince and his wife. I hope the sequel will have that
o The intricacies of the way their world worked were a little lost on me. There was magic, and technology, but all communication seemed to be happening with paper messages. I'd also like a little more information on the World Court
The bad
- Most of the 'fight' against the Gunkermal family happened while they were in different countries. I was missing the satisfaction of seeing their reactions
I admit I was a little on the fence about trying this book. But damn am I glad I did. I loved this story, the connection between the main characters, and the way they handled all the problems that arose. I can't express how gleeful I felt when I read there are plans for a sequel. Hell yes. Would definitely recommend.
May 7, 2023
This is my first ever Lisa Oliver book and so far I am impressed! I was deep in since moment one. Based on the blurb book two doesn't continue this story, but I hope it will be continued eventually. It has so much potential!
February 3, 2023
Urgh, so bad.
The plot for this wasn't bad - it could have been a really nice piece of fluff; however, the writing was just so poor.
I believe the setting is supposed to be a quasi-fantasy realm with kingdoms, some magic, and pirates. I kept being hauled out of the story/setting by language like this:
"Hang in there, Cass babe. I’ll find you."
“I don’t want to embarrass or insult your father with my presence, especially if Paragon’s been telling him the same BS he spread to everyone else in the Gunkermal court.”
I just find things like "babe" and 'BS" to be really jarring considering the setting.
Then there is the grammar:
Say nothing to nobody right now.
Is that as in "Don't say anything to anybody right now"?
My other gripe is about how Caspian (you know, the aforementioned "Cass babe") went from being horrified at the thought of being married to a man and reacting in a way that felt viscerally disgusted and then doing a complete 180 and ending up sounding like a doe-eyed ingenue. Sheez. Imagine if there had been a real exploration of evolving emotions - that would have been a book I would have enjoyed.
Needs serious editing for grammar and to help the author land on a consistent vernacular.
The plot for this wasn't bad - it could have been a really nice piece of fluff; however, the writing was just so poor.
I believe the setting is supposed to be a quasi-fantasy realm with kingdoms, some magic, and pirates. I kept being hauled out of the story/setting by language like this:
"Hang in there, Cass babe. I’ll find you."
“I don’t want to embarrass or insult your father with my presence, especially if Paragon’s been telling him the same BS he spread to everyone else in the Gunkermal court.”
I just find things like "babe" and 'BS" to be really jarring considering the setting.
Then there is the grammar:
Say nothing to nobody right now.
Is that as in "Don't say anything to anybody right now"?
My other gripe is about how Caspian (you know, the aforementioned "Cass babe") went from being horrified at the thought of being married to a man and reacting in a way that felt viscerally disgusted and then doing a complete 180 and ending up sounding like a doe-eyed ingenue. Sheez. Imagine if there had been a real exploration of evolving emotions - that would have been a book I would have enjoyed.
Needs serious editing for grammar and to help the author land on a consistent vernacular.
June 14, 2022
I don't know why but it seems really funny to me I don't have the tags to describe this book. It's a "medieval" styled land with some magic but the technology is prominent enough it just doesn't fit my idea of fantasy. Not to mention the idea of that World Council or what it's called - a political body designed to oversee the kingdoms to ensure peace between them.
In this regard, the book was well-written and since I started with compliments, I also liked the main characters, the magic was undefined but added a nice touch and yes, arranged marriage may sound like a noose IRL but books... here it can provide a good premise.
And I enjoyed reading the book even with the... less well-made parts.
I talked about this somewhere already but the idea of creating a "homogenous" group of people that make your character's life bad is... it's clumsy. And feels very flat. While many stories like to have antogonist(s), the problem characters here were very simple, made ridiculous from the first moment you see them and their only purpose is to win over them, to show the MC is better than this. Any encounter with the prince's family was just... if I wrote such a scene myself, I'd say it's poorly written (and I am still at a point I may not be able to write something much better).
The events were also weirdly spaced - several plot twists just didn't get any space either in their life or the story and any emotional impact was either dulled or nonexistent. Sometimes, it was nice to skip "the boring parts", at least.
In the romance department... well, the premise of the story is based on two people who are unsuitable for each other - or, to be precise, that the person he's marrying is promiscuous and unreliable. And, spoiler alert, I mean it, this is a minor spoiler, but he's not. And that feels kind of... unfulfilling?
I recently watched some video that mentioned why marketing is such an important part - I mean the way you make your work look and it's such a true for blurbs as well. If you make a misleading blurb, you'll get all kinds of wrong readers that might just complain because they misunderstood what the book is offering. And despite my best intentions, that's what I felt here - just like in books that claim a "ruthless assassin" or "bad boy" or any other label and then deliver a... marshmallow - being told I am getting a sociable (a.k.a party person) and unconcerned with politics (a.k.a irresponsible and then getting someone kind and soft and nice... it wasn't disappointment per see, I liked him, but it did feel like I wasn't getting what I thought I was.
And I really should get back to studying instead of nitpicking this overally enjoyable read.
In this regard, the book was well-written and since I started with compliments, I also liked the main characters, the magic was undefined but added a nice touch and yes, arranged marriage may sound like a noose IRL but books... here it can provide a good premise.
And I enjoyed reading the book even with the... less well-made parts.
I talked about this somewhere already but the idea of creating a "homogenous" group of people that make your character's life bad is... it's clumsy. And feels very flat. While many stories like to have antogonist(s), the problem characters here were very simple, made ridiculous from the first moment you see them and their only purpose is to win over them, to show the MC is better than this. Any encounter with the prince's family was just... if I wrote such a scene myself, I'd say it's poorly written (and I am still at a point I may not be able to write something much better).
The events were also weirdly spaced - several plot twists just didn't get any space either in their life or the story and any emotional impact was either dulled or nonexistent. Sometimes, it was nice to skip "the boring parts", at least.
In the romance department... well, the premise of the story is based on two people who are unsuitable for each other - or, to be precise, that the person he's marrying is promiscuous and unreliable. And, spoiler alert, I mean it, this is a minor spoiler, but he's not. And that feels kind of... unfulfilling?
I recently watched some video that mentioned why marketing is such an important part - I mean the way you make your work look and it's such a true for blurbs as well. If you make a misleading blurb, you'll get all kinds of wrong readers that might just complain because they misunderstood what the book is offering. And despite my best intentions, that's what I felt here - just like in books that claim a "ruthless assassin" or "bad boy" or any other label and then deliver a... marshmallow - being told I am getting a sociable (a.k.a party person) and unconcerned with politics (a.k.a irresponsible and then getting someone kind and soft and nice... it wasn't disappointment per see, I liked him, but it did feel like I wasn't getting what I thought I was.
And I really should get back to studying instead of nitpicking this overally enjoyable read.
Read
September 14, 2022DNF at 50%
I can't anymore. Can't.
Don't hate me.
Everyone is so excited about the book, but I just don't see it.
I can forgive the magic (there isn't any, really) and the weird Caspian's family, but there are so many things that just don't work here.
The story is ridiculous, but I said let's give it a shot, maybe it picks up.
Nikolas and Caspian seem like a really good match and are by themselves great characters, I get the attraction on both sides, but for example something as monumental as their first kiss happens and the author doesn't drive us through in detail, but doesn't fail to say cock this, cock that all the time.
I have no problem with cock, I do have a problem with telling only parts of the intimacy, not the whole ordeal.
The dialogues were ridiculous and I felt like I was narrating the story in my head in a British English pirate-y dialect and everything was a satire.
Is it just me??? I do love Caspian, so maybe I'll pick up the book when it starts to snow and I'll get all nostalgic.
Maybe hot chocolate will help me finish it.
😉
I can't anymore. Can't.
Don't hate me.
Everyone is so excited about the book, but I just don't see it.
I can forgive the magic (there isn't any, really) and the weird Caspian's family, but there are so many things that just don't work here.
The story is ridiculous, but I said let's give it a shot, maybe it picks up.
Nikolas and Caspian seem like a really good match and are by themselves great characters, I get the attraction on both sides, but for example something as monumental as their first kiss happens and the author doesn't drive us through in detail, but doesn't fail to say cock this, cock that all the time.
I have no problem with cock, I do have a problem with telling only parts of the intimacy, not the whole ordeal.
The dialogues were ridiculous and I felt like I was narrating the story in my head in a British English pirate-y dialect and everything was a satire.
Is it just me??? I do love Caspian, so maybe I'll pick up the book when it starts to snow and I'll get all nostalgic.
Maybe hot chocolate will help me finish it.
😉
February 19, 2024
This is the first time I ever read anything like ‘The Infidelity Clause’ by Lisa Oliver. Is it Magic, Fantasy or Paranormal ? I don’t know but I do know that I loved this story, I was drawn into it from the first few pages and was sorry when it seemed to send so abruptly.
I believe I have to wait for a sequel sometime in the future. 🥹
Prince Caspian grew up in Gukermal the 4th son of King Reuben and therefore irrelevant as regards succession because two of his older brothers were already married with sons and daughters. He was quite happy about that.
He loved his life, being left alone to do as he pleased, partying, chatting with the people, helping out wherever he could, a friendly Prince of the Realm.
All that changed when he was informed that his father had arranged a marriage with Prince Nicholas, the only son of the King of Westlands. Eh, marriage with a man????
Caspian didn’t have a high opinion of himself as a valuable asset in marriage, he had dodgy eyesight, anxiety attacks, short attention span.
Prince Nicholas on the other had had his own fleet of ships and spent his time sailing the seas. He did everything his beloved father required of him. He was a very good King.
Initially wary of this marriage arrangement he was happy to meet with Prince Caspian. Nicholas wasn’t looking for a Princess, he liked men. On first meeting Nicholas was taken aback at the beautiful looking man that was Caspian and looked at the arrangement more favourably.
Discussions started out with some uncertainty, especially for Caspian. But there was hella lot more coming down the line that neither men saw coming. Lies and more lies, kidnapping by pirates, life threatening attempts. What will happening between the two Kingdoms when the truth comes out?
I loved all the Magical stuff that happened in this ‘world’ mostly in Nicholas’s country, Magic was banned in Gukermal. I didn’t understand how communications happened so fast, but it seemed so much better than in the world we know. As for the magic medical remedies, wow.
I loved Nicholas and Caspian’s description of love not being so much about the heart, but the soul, meeting of souls. Yep, I liked that.
So I look forward to the sequel and find out how Nicholas and Caspian solve the dire circumstances surrounding their nuptials.
Lisa Oliver has an extensive list of books in several genres, I want to read more of this Magical stuff before I try any of the others.
I believe I have to wait for a sequel sometime in the future. 🥹
Prince Caspian grew up in Gukermal the 4th son of King Reuben and therefore irrelevant as regards succession because two of his older brothers were already married with sons and daughters. He was quite happy about that.
He loved his life, being left alone to do as he pleased, partying, chatting with the people, helping out wherever he could, a friendly Prince of the Realm.
All that changed when he was informed that his father had arranged a marriage with Prince Nicholas, the only son of the King of Westlands. Eh, marriage with a man????
Caspian didn’t have a high opinion of himself as a valuable asset in marriage, he had dodgy eyesight, anxiety attacks, short attention span.
Prince Nicholas on the other had had his own fleet of ships and spent his time sailing the seas. He did everything his beloved father required of him. He was a very good King.
Initially wary of this marriage arrangement he was happy to meet with Prince Caspian. Nicholas wasn’t looking for a Princess, he liked men. On first meeting Nicholas was taken aback at the beautiful looking man that was Caspian and looked at the arrangement more favourably.
Discussions started out with some uncertainty, especially for Caspian. But there was hella lot more coming down the line that neither men saw coming. Lies and more lies, kidnapping by pirates, life threatening attempts. What will happening between the two Kingdoms when the truth comes out?
I loved all the Magical stuff that happened in this ‘world’ mostly in Nicholas’s country, Magic was banned in Gukermal. I didn’t understand how communications happened so fast, but it seemed so much better than in the world we know. As for the magic medical remedies, wow.
I loved Nicholas and Caspian’s description of love not being so much about the heart, but the soul, meeting of souls. Yep, I liked that.
So I look forward to the sequel and find out how Nicholas and Caspian solve the dire circumstances surrounding their nuptials.
Lisa Oliver has an extensive list of books in several genres, I want to read more of this Magical stuff before I try any of the others.
June 12, 2022
Another awesome book by Lisa Oliver!
Totally recommend this book! The characters were great and loved how the story developed! Couldn't help but cheer for Caspian.
Totally recommend this book! The characters were great and loved how the story developed! Couldn't help but cheer for Caspian.
April 16, 2024
This is a fun, delightful romance with passion, love, and some serious overtones. Prince Nikolas agreed to a marriage contract to Prince Caspian in order to bring advantages to his country. He had heard that Caspian was only interested in women and is a rather vacuous loose playboy. He insisted on an infidelity clause, so he could easily escape the marriage as long as it was unconsummated, but still make the gains for his country. He didn't expect it to take long.
When Nikolas met Caspian, he quickly realized that reports about the man were inaccurate and there was much more to him than a superficial, wanton royal. Caspian was also unsure about Nikolas. He hadn't read the negotiated contract very carefully due to eye problems and he was often anxious, especially as his family treated him so badly.
Nikolas and Caspian soon figure out that they want to try a friendship or even relationship. Still, danger and deceit follow them everywhere. Betrayal and secrets seek to destroy their newly forged marriage. Can these two prevail and even fall in love with a real marriage? This book has a lot of humor, some madcap fun, royal hijinks, serious dangers, and a love that conquers all. It ends on a HFN and the story in continued in Bk 4 in the series (The Pirate's Treasure).
When Nikolas met Caspian, he quickly realized that reports about the man were inaccurate and there was much more to him than a superficial, wanton royal. Caspian was also unsure about Nikolas. He hadn't read the negotiated contract very carefully due to eye problems and he was often anxious, especially as his family treated him so badly.
Nikolas and Caspian soon figure out that they want to try a friendship or even relationship. Still, danger and deceit follow them everywhere. Betrayal and secrets seek to destroy their newly forged marriage. Can these two prevail and even fall in love with a real marriage? This book has a lot of humor, some madcap fun, royal hijinks, serious dangers, and a love that conquers all. It ends on a HFN and the story in continued in Bk 4 in the series (The Pirate's Treasure).
September 30, 2024
This book is such a peculiar mix of good and dorky. I'm surprised that I finished reading it. One star for that.
Done. Okay. How many crimes were there?
1) The editing of most books fails toward the end, but this one needed a better editor overall.
2)I never like current real-world terms in fantasy because it feels so lazy, and it pops me out of the story.
3) There are also failures of phrases, such as, for example, blowing a castle "out of the water." No, that's for ships! Wow.
4) Worst, there's such a sharp disconnect between early scenes with Caspian vs. the rest of the book that they felt like different characters.
5) Close runner-up, the pacing of the court stuff was sometimes just awkward. The romance works, but the rest is sketchy and mistimed.
Pretty obvious the author didn't put a lot of sweat equity into the manuscript, and obvious that the editing was subpar.
I finished reading it, I didn't hate it, but it gets just one star because the sample at the end for the next book felt like a threat. So.
Done. Okay. How many crimes were there?
1) The editing of most books fails toward the end, but this one needed a better editor overall.
2)I never like current real-world terms in fantasy because it feels so lazy, and it pops me out of the story.
3) There are also failures of phrases, such as, for example, blowing a castle "out of the water." No, that's for ships! Wow.
4) Worst, there's such a sharp disconnect between early scenes with Caspian vs. the rest of the book that they felt like different characters.
5) Close runner-up, the pacing of the court stuff was sometimes just awkward. The romance works, but the rest is sketchy and mistimed.
Pretty obvious the author didn't put a lot of sweat equity into the manuscript, and obvious that the editing was subpar.
I finished reading it, I didn't hate it, but it gets just one star because the sample at the end for the next book felt like a threat. So.
December 4, 2023
I wanted something silly to satisfy my two remaining brain cells after hellish weeks at work and I got it. I guess it was too silly to a point of being stupid at times (how can you have one character claiming half the marriages in the kingdom are between same sex couples, and few pages later MC being baffled two men can be intimate with eachother... Celebrating Christmas in a fictional fantasy world is another can of worms I'm not going to elaborate on).
But as a palate cleanser, it worked.
But as a palate cleanser, it worked.
April 30, 2024
**Audiobook Review**
I love reading about arranged marriages that ultimately be a love match. This one did start off shaky due to misunderstandings but Prince Caspian and Prince Nikolas got to know each other and they had nice romance. There were a lot of shenanigans among the crazy relatives along with secrets...not much angst and some sexy scenes...nothing overly graphic or dramatic. Nice romance...the narrator was good and made the audio pleasant. Only thing I would have like was an epilogue...the ending to me was more a HFN instead of a HEA.
I love reading about arranged marriages that ultimately be a love match. This one did start off shaky due to misunderstandings but Prince Caspian and Prince Nikolas got to know each other and they had nice romance. There were a lot of shenanigans among the crazy relatives along with secrets...not much angst and some sexy scenes...nothing overly graphic or dramatic. Nice romance...the narrator was good and made the audio pleasant. Only thing I would have like was an epilogue...the ending to me was more a HFN instead of a HEA.
July 16, 2022
An absolute gem
No real relationship angst, but plenty of bad guys, and a rather sudden cliff hanger. Although this isn't a fated mates story, they do fall fast for each other--although they're the good guys, so we want that for them.
I found the story entertaining and resented that I had other responsibilities that prevented me from reading it all in one to.
Side kicks are loyal, so the good guys have friends, and while MC1 has a truly awful father, MC2 has one that is good enough for them both.
Pirates are an awesome bonus. I'm positive they'll be in book 2.
Hoping that even after this storyline is resolved there may be more books in this world.
No real relationship angst, but plenty of bad guys, and a rather sudden cliff hanger. Although this isn't a fated mates story, they do fall fast for each other--although they're the good guys, so we want that for them.
I found the story entertaining and resented that I had other responsibilities that prevented me from reading it all in one to.
Side kicks are loyal, so the good guys have friends, and while MC1 has a truly awful father, MC2 has one that is good enough for them both.
Pirates are an awesome bonus. I'm positive they'll be in book 2.
Hoping that even after this storyline is resolved there may be more books in this world.
July 4, 2022
love it
I can’t wait for more , a political marriage of convenience becomes so much more !! Wow I absolutely loved this book and I so excited to see where it goes from here definitely left it at a HFN so there has to be so much more drama , past trauma , bi awakening , pirates!!! So much happened yet there’s still room for so much more , oh and magic !! Will definitely be keeping my eye out for the next installment
I can’t wait for more , a political marriage of convenience becomes so much more !! Wow I absolutely loved this book and I so excited to see where it goes from here definitely left it at a HFN so there has to be so much more drama , past trauma , bi awakening , pirates!!! So much happened yet there’s still room for so much more , oh and magic !! Will definitely be keeping my eye out for the next installment
June 18, 2022
Brilliant
I couldn't put this down. As with all of Lisa's books it was laugh out loud funny, passionate and steamy. I adored the insta love. Full of intrigue and relatable main characters, with well thought out supporting characters. The angst was low but the drama was high. Highly recommend and willing to give 5 stars for an extremely well written book. Now I have to wait for book two
I couldn't put this down. As with all of Lisa's books it was laugh out loud funny, passionate and steamy. I adored the insta love. Full of intrigue and relatable main characters, with well thought out supporting characters. The angst was low but the drama was high. Highly recommend and willing to give 5 stars for an extremely well written book. Now I have to wait for book two
September 26, 2022
Lisa at her BEST!!!!
OMFG! I just want to button smash a bunch on unintelligible letters and pretend they are words because THIS is freaking amazing. Very different than the usual lisa oliver but also very much the same. I loved every single moment of this book and I'd almost go far as to say this is my new absolute favorite thing this author has ever released.
The characters are deep and loveable (or hateable depending on which side they are on), the plot is smart and deep, the building love between the MCs was fast (not fated mates fast but still fast) but it was completely believable with their on page interactions, and not one page of this was anything less than fully immersive.
If this is what happens when lisa oliver goes "off script" or when her "muse takes a vacation" I strongly suggest that she let's it happen more often. This book showcases lisa as the heavy hitting literary genius that she is. I will reread this book probably a dozen times in the next few months.
OMFG! I just want to button smash a bunch on unintelligible letters and pretend they are words because THIS is freaking amazing. Very different than the usual lisa oliver but also very much the same. I loved every single moment of this book and I'd almost go far as to say this is my new absolute favorite thing this author has ever released.
The characters are deep and loveable (or hateable depending on which side they are on), the plot is smart and deep, the building love between the MCs was fast (not fated mates fast but still fast) but it was completely believable with their on page interactions, and not one page of this was anything less than fully immersive.
If this is what happens when lisa oliver goes "off script" or when her "muse takes a vacation" I strongly suggest that she let's it happen more often. This book showcases lisa as the heavy hitting literary genius that she is. I will reread this book probably a dozen times in the next few months.
July 1, 2022
I really, really enjoyed this story until the end when I got a "to be continued"!!!! I thought this was going to be a one off not the start of a new series, which is fine I just wish I knew that in advance. Things were left hanging, in my opinion, and I'm not sure by the author's explanation if there will be a better conclusion to Nikolas & Caspian's story, I certainly hope so they deserve better.
Looking forward to more of this universe, whenever that will be.
QUICK THOUGHTS
-- Fantasy -- historical -- not exactly sure how to tag this one (LOL) -- magic -- different type of universe -- Royalty/Princes pairing -- arranged marriage -- sexual awakening -- first time everything with a man -- one very dysfunctional family -- one really great family -- drama -- intrigue -- a pirate half brother -- some really sweet moments -- surprisingly relatively light lot of sex (yay!) -- loved the MCs... NIkolas & Caspian -- NOT a satisfying ending -- a bit annoyed how this ended -- feeling like I got left hanging -- am looking forward to more of this universe
June 11, 2022
Cliffhanger ending. If sequel, then will revisit this review. Court intrigue. Arranged gfy marriage.
July 23, 2022
nice characters but missing world building and cliffhanger ending didn’t make it for me
Rating: 2.5🌈
I was looking forward to this book based on the blurb and some of the reviews, but it was definitely not the story I anticipated. Btw, spoilers ahead.
First of all there is no solid world building here. The Infidelity Clause by Lisa Olivier was lacking in a consistent foundation for its storylines. It’s missing huge parts of its universe, especially anything relatable to a magical element. That was almost a nonexistent item here, although supposedly it was a major factor in the health of the peoples, education , and foundation of the kingdoms.
Oliver’s plot veered between the “whimsical” historical comedy the blurb referenced and a realistic drama that factors in people with pasts that contain sexual assault, suicide, family abuse, and abandonment. More about the abundance of plot elements later.
The story revolves around a marriage clause called a Infidelity Clause referred to by the characters as a “piss off “ clause repeatedly. Why? Because if broken, one of the partners of the contract can, well, you guess it.
The intention here is that the marriage was going to be a temporary contract. It all starts off so lightly. A way faring Prince, will wed a ne’er do well “loves to party”prince in a comedy of errors! Sounds fab!
The author has chosen names of the countries and neighboring kingdoms along the lines of Gumflumple, ( actually Gunkermal) with a actual heir , a stepbrother, to a throne called Paragon. Not the main characters. So I figured this was not a story I was supposed to take seriously.
It was if Oliver started out writing a broad comedy, then because she couldn’t decide where to take the characterizations, so she moved them and the storylines all over the place. From light fun which then took a dark turn into stark murderous drama!
Broad comedy, sex and sexual awakening, drama, murder mystery, murder attempts, action suspense, romance, pirates and sea battles, a pinch of steampunk and a scoosch of tiny magical doings too . Oh and a character with disabilities and mentions of several past sexual assaults to others. The entire kitchen of narrative elements was absolutely tossed into the book here . I believe I’ve left out some. Like the smh names of some people and items.
I liked the characters, but the story they are running around in is a mess. Main elements have no foundation. Small characters play a big part , then several mentions, then disappear. Pop back in. Gone again.
It’s got the feeling of a grab bag of narrative elements that just keep getting thrown in without the necessary exposition to glue it together.
But the worst? The way it was ended.
“Which was why, when the knocking at the door started, he ignored it, and encouraged Caspian to ignore it too.
To Be Continued.”
— The Infidelity Clause: One of those MM crown princes, arranged marriages books by Lisa Oliver
The author excuses herself by saying she’s decided to write another book, so she’s leaving them here.
Like that absolves her of the decision to complete a book a person has paid for and has the expectation of getting a finished , polished product.
Which, imo, this is not.
So read it if you’re a fan of the author. Or if the blurb intrigues you. I’m giving the next book a pass.
Rating: 2.5🌈
I was looking forward to this book based on the blurb and some of the reviews, but it was definitely not the story I anticipated. Btw, spoilers ahead.
First of all there is no solid world building here. The Infidelity Clause by Lisa Olivier was lacking in a consistent foundation for its storylines. It’s missing huge parts of its universe, especially anything relatable to a magical element. That was almost a nonexistent item here, although supposedly it was a major factor in the health of the peoples, education , and foundation of the kingdoms.
Oliver’s plot veered between the “whimsical” historical comedy the blurb referenced and a realistic drama that factors in people with pasts that contain sexual assault, suicide, family abuse, and abandonment. More about the abundance of plot elements later.
The story revolves around a marriage clause called a Infidelity Clause referred to by the characters as a “piss off “ clause repeatedly. Why? Because if broken, one of the partners of the contract can, well, you guess it.
The intention here is that the marriage was going to be a temporary contract. It all starts off so lightly. A way faring Prince, will wed a ne’er do well “loves to party”prince in a comedy of errors! Sounds fab!
The author has chosen names of the countries and neighboring kingdoms along the lines of Gumflumple, ( actually Gunkermal) with a actual heir , a stepbrother, to a throne called Paragon. Not the main characters. So I figured this was not a story I was supposed to take seriously.
It was if Oliver started out writing a broad comedy, then because she couldn’t decide where to take the characterizations, so she moved them and the storylines all over the place. From light fun which then took a dark turn into stark murderous drama!
Broad comedy, sex and sexual awakening, drama, murder mystery, murder attempts, action suspense, romance, pirates and sea battles, a pinch of steampunk and a scoosch of tiny magical doings too . Oh and a character with disabilities and mentions of several past sexual assaults to others. The entire kitchen of narrative elements was absolutely tossed into the book here . I believe I’ve left out some. Like the smh names of some people and items.
I liked the characters, but the story they are running around in is a mess. Main elements have no foundation. Small characters play a big part , then several mentions, then disappear. Pop back in. Gone again.
It’s got the feeling of a grab bag of narrative elements that just keep getting thrown in without the necessary exposition to glue it together.
But the worst? The way it was ended.
“Which was why, when the knocking at the door started, he ignored it, and encouraged Caspian to ignore it too.
To Be Continued.”
— The Infidelity Clause: One of those MM crown princes, arranged marriages books by Lisa Oliver
The author excuses herself by saying she’s decided to write another book, so she’s leaving them here.
Like that absolves her of the decision to complete a book a person has paid for and has the expectation of getting a finished , polished product.
Which, imo, this is not.
So read it if you’re a fan of the author. Or if the blurb intrigues you. I’m giving the next book a pass.
March 28, 2024
The disappointment I felt with this book is INFINITE. Look, this has all the elements I theoretically would love:
- Arranged marriage for convenience
- Scheming
- Two characters who want the marriage to fail
- Power imbalance that needs to be addressed
But unfortunately, everything in this book is solved within 10 minutes from the start. There is no tentsion because things are explained via longwinded dialogues, everyone talks like they are in a robotic commercial.
And the irritating thing is that the set up is absolutely fantastic. Nikolas accepts to marry Caspian because he knows Caspian sleeps around with a lot of women, which means that (thanks to the infidelity clause) the marriage would probably be nullified and Caspian (and his kingdom) would have to pay a penalty. A win-win situation, where Caspian does not want the marriage but he also needs to preserve it, and where Nikolas does not want the marriage but he pretends he does, knowing it will probably end up broken. Doesn't this sound amazing?
Unfortunately, the book resolves everything so quickly that I have no idea why it is even titled "the infidelity clause". Here are some spoilers:
- Arranged marriage for convenience
- Scheming
- Two characters who want the marriage to fail
- Power imbalance that needs to be addressed
But unfortunately, everything in this book is solved within 10 minutes from the start. There is no tentsion because things are explained via longwinded dialogues, everyone talks like they are in a robotic commercial.
And the irritating thing is that the set up is absolutely fantastic. Nikolas accepts to marry Caspian because he knows Caspian sleeps around with a lot of women, which means that (thanks to the infidelity clause) the marriage would probably be nullified and Caspian (and his kingdom) would have to pay a penalty. A win-win situation, where Caspian does not want the marriage but he also needs to preserve it, and where Nikolas does not want the marriage but he pretends he does, knowing it will probably end up broken. Doesn't this sound amazing?
Unfortunately, the book resolves everything so quickly that I have no idea why it is even titled "the infidelity clause". Here are some spoilers:
March 22, 2023
This was an enjoyable diversion from the author's norm, where in this case the pair at the center of it all are not fated mates, and in fact are not even particularly well suited to each other. They go into the marriage with the idea that they will enact the infidelity clause (a marriage contract stipulation that gets explained throughout the book) but the consequences of it and the strange family dynamics going on change everything.
At the beginning it seems very obvious that these two should not be paired. Caspian is the fourth son, quite literally told often how useless he is in that position, and spends his lazy days partying and hooking up. Marriage for him will always just be a contract and he figures it is actually for years down the road, a contract to a child. Nikolas believes in love but as a royal he knows that his marriage will likely be contractual, and the contract for this marriage is very favourable to his country and his father the king. It seems that the best way for both of them is to go through with the marriage and have the infidelity clause get enacted. However, it quickly becomes clear that Caspian was somewhat misled about the engagement, and the enactment of the infidelity clause will cause him to lose everything. Nikolas finds himself intrigued by the whole situation as well as irritated about being used, so soon the two are working to figure out what is going on in Caspian's country. It is a rough road (the first meeting they have goes VERY poorly) and there are quite a few deep secrets, but it was an interesting and enjoyable journey! A fascinating universe of royals that could have other story potential, this was an enjoyable read.
At the beginning it seems very obvious that these two should not be paired. Caspian is the fourth son, quite literally told often how useless he is in that position, and spends his lazy days partying and hooking up. Marriage for him will always just be a contract and he figures it is actually for years down the road, a contract to a child. Nikolas believes in love but as a royal he knows that his marriage will likely be contractual, and the contract for this marriage is very favourable to his country and his father the king. It seems that the best way for both of them is to go through with the marriage and have the infidelity clause get enacted. However, it quickly becomes clear that Caspian was somewhat misled about the engagement, and the enactment of the infidelity clause will cause him to lose everything. Nikolas finds himself intrigued by the whole situation as well as irritated about being used, so soon the two are working to figure out what is going on in Caspian's country. It is a rough road (the first meeting they have goes VERY poorly) and there are quite a few deep secrets, but it was an interesting and enjoyable journey! A fascinating universe of royals that could have other story potential, this was an enjoyable read.
September 15, 2022
Infidelity Clauses? Piss-off clause
Caspian has just signed a marriage contract. He didn't realize it was to a man.
Nikolas, his intended questions how he could not know. It is he he can't see well and no one has thought to get him glasses. As things become more clear between the two of them, Nikolas wants to marry him more than ever and not use any clauses! Caspian is visiting his ship when a toddler goes over the side. Caspian immediately jumps in after him and they are both captured by pirates. The captain who looks just like him as he releases him in the water tells him the story of his "brother ", who is not his brother but his father. He raped his mother and the Pirates mother. They are stepbrothers with 4 months between. The problem is that everyone wants to kill Caspian from that Royal Court. His one brother Favo continues to try to steal his husband. It took the intervention of the World Court at the behest of Caspian's family to have something happen. UNFORTUNATELY, Caspian's family will be locked up. Those that aren't move out of the castle. The World Court chooses the bastard prince.
But it is Nikolas' love for Cass and his support for him thatyu I have made life worth living. Although I liked this one, I liked the one with the Prince with the Undergarments a smidgen better. Looking forward to more.
The Pirates story would be interesting to tell with all this because you know the pirate is doing good deeds but there is not alot of explanation for him. I would like to see him get close to his brother. Book 3???
9/10
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Caspian has just signed a marriage contract. He didn't realize it was to a man.
Nikolas, his intended questions how he could not know. It is he he can't see well and no one has thought to get him glasses. As things become more clear between the two of them, Nikolas wants to marry him more than ever and not use any clauses! Caspian is visiting his ship when a toddler goes over the side. Caspian immediately jumps in after him and they are both captured by pirates. The captain who looks just like him as he releases him in the water tells him the story of his "brother ", who is not his brother but his father. He raped his mother and the Pirates mother. They are stepbrothers with 4 months between. The problem is that everyone wants to kill Caspian from that Royal Court. His one brother Favo continues to try to steal his husband. It took the intervention of the World Court at the behest of Caspian's family to have something happen. UNFORTUNATELY, Caspian's family will be locked up. Those that aren't move out of the castle. The World Court chooses the bastard prince.
But it is Nikolas' love for Cass and his support for him thatyu I have made life worth living. Although I liked this one, I liked the one with the Prince with the Undergarments a smidgen better. Looking forward to more.
The Pirates story would be interesting to tell with all this because you know the pirate is doing good deeds but there is not alot of explanation for him. I would like to see him get close to his brother. Book 3???
9/10
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
October 31, 2025
This was a mixed bag for me. It didn’t start well when we first meet Caspian and he’s loudly protesting the very idea of marrying a man. For someone who turns out to be not-so-straight, I found this extreme internalized homophobia to be rather offputting.
Overall, the story was pretty good and interesting. I had already read book 5, A Marriage of Necessity, so I was somewhat familiar with this world. Nikolas and his entourage from Westland were a very likable bunch, and King Marvin, Nikolas’s dad, was a hoot. The Gunkermal royal family, however, were a bunch of crazies. The plot was interesting and fun but it started falling apart as I watched the pages run out with way too much unresolved. We’re given a teasing introduction the Caspian’s half-brother, Rojan the pirate, and we get the feeling he’s going to play a central role, but then….nothing.
But what really irked me, was after the Gunkermal royals, royally implode, and Caspian, who by now has fully embraced his gayness, is thrust right to the forefront, the author hits us with words I hate to see at the end of a story: “To be continued.”
Really? The only place where it is indicated that this might not be a standalone, is in the blurb for book 4, The Pirates Treasure, where reader’s are told we might want to read book 1 first. Why the games? Just finish the story. And if you’re going to make it two parts, say so upfront and make the second one the next book. Ugh!
Overall, the story was pretty good and interesting. I had already read book 5, A Marriage of Necessity, so I was somewhat familiar with this world. Nikolas and his entourage from Westland were a very likable bunch, and King Marvin, Nikolas’s dad, was a hoot. The Gunkermal royal family, however, were a bunch of crazies. The plot was interesting and fun but it started falling apart as I watched the pages run out with way too much unresolved. We’re given a teasing introduction the Caspian’s half-brother, Rojan the pirate, and we get the feeling he’s going to play a central role, but then….nothing.
But what really irked me, was after the Gunkermal royals, royally implode, and Caspian, who by now has fully embraced his gayness, is thrust right to the forefront, the author hits us with words I hate to see at the end of a story: “To be continued.”
Really? The only place where it is indicated that this might not be a standalone, is in the blurb for book 4, The Pirates Treasure, where reader’s are told we might want to read book 1 first. Why the games? Just finish the story. And if you’re going to make it two parts, say so upfront and make the second one the next book. Ugh!
December 25, 2023
🎧 4.5 stars An great narration with both characters vocals very different which I thoughly enjoyed.
📚 Story 4 stars.
Prince Nikolas and Prince Caspian were to marry in an arranged marriage to benefit both their countries.
Except, Caspian was clueless about the marriage or miss-communication with the contract he’d signed, there is more to that which explains why he was mislead.
24 hours they'd be hitched but the clause was an important addition to the contract. Dangers for Caspian as security begin lax, especially with pirates in the locality. Caspian’s way of life was about to change when he was to sail to Nikolas’s county.
A brave act leads to Caspian getting captured by pirates, but there's also a twist in heritage.
Possible triggers: Incest wth stepson and the rape attack of the Queen, depression leading to death.
I loved both the main characters as both find their HFN or cliffhanger. Caspian had never been with another male thought to be forbidden. Dangers for Caspian’s as.. Well, I won't spoil it for you. I loved the sexy scenes as Nikolas is caring to Caspian’s feelings with his first time experience. The story progresses nicely with underhand things coming into play for them both. The audio finishes with a happy for now (HFN) ending which continues into the next book.
📚 Story 4 stars.
Prince Nikolas and Prince Caspian were to marry in an arranged marriage to benefit both their countries.
Except, Caspian was clueless about the marriage or miss-communication with the contract he’d signed, there is more to that which explains why he was mislead.
24 hours they'd be hitched but the clause was an important addition to the contract. Dangers for Caspian as security begin lax, especially with pirates in the locality. Caspian’s way of life was about to change when he was to sail to Nikolas’s county.
A brave act leads to Caspian getting captured by pirates, but there's also a twist in heritage.
Possible triggers: Incest wth stepson and the rape attack of the Queen, depression leading to death.
I loved both the main characters as both find their HFN or cliffhanger. Caspian had never been with another male thought to be forbidden. Dangers for Caspian’s as.. Well, I won't spoil it for you. I loved the sexy scenes as Nikolas is caring to Caspian’s feelings with his first time experience. The story progresses nicely with underhand things coming into play for them both. The audio finishes with a happy for now (HFN) ending which continues into the next book.
April 14, 2023
This fell flat for me. The plot and the characters. Here are the reasons for my rating.
- There were many moments that had the potential to be some really juicy drama but it ended up blah.
- Some of the characters behaviors and reactions were ridiculous and OTT.
- There was a lot of info that was repeated unnecessarily.
- It wasn't clear what kind of world they lived in. It seemed kind of regent steampunk with magic but also not.
- Some of the language the characters used just didn't fit in with what little we do know of the world.
- Some of the sentences were awkward and I had to reread a few times to understand them.
- We are told many things about Caspian but none of it is shown on page. That annoyed me the most.
- There was to many plot holes that were just breezed on by.
- My biggest complaint is that this ends on a cliffhanger.
So will I read the next book? No. It's not even a continuation of this book.
- There were many moments that had the potential to be some really juicy drama but it ended up blah.
- Some of the characters behaviors and reactions were ridiculous and OTT.
- There was a lot of info that was repeated unnecessarily.
- It wasn't clear what kind of world they lived in. It seemed kind of regent steampunk with magic but also not.
- Some of the language the characters used just didn't fit in with what little we do know of the world.
- Some of the sentences were awkward and I had to reread a few times to understand them.
- We are told many things about Caspian but none of it is shown on page. That annoyed me the most.
- There was to many plot holes that were just breezed on by.
- My biggest complaint is that this ends on a cliffhanger.
So will I read the next book? No. It's not even a continuation of this book.
April 27, 2024
Loved It.
If you love arranged marriages set in a land touched by magic this one’s for you. It has a Prince who agreed to the arranged marriage his father proposed for him without realising his spouse to be was another adult male. H has never been attracted to males. Will that change? Said spouse to be also has misconceptions. Things get a bit choppy for a while and a few snarky comments fly. Just as things begin to get sorted out Caspian’s true father and his father’s wife take the bit between their teeth and decide they deserve the throne more than anyone else in the family and Caspian needs to be removed from the scene as well as his grandfather. Our galant heroes have some obstacles to overcome before they arrive at their happy ever after. Great storyline, great characters, pace and definitely great romance. A must read. I’m off to read book 2.
If you love arranged marriages set in a land touched by magic this one’s for you. It has a Prince who agreed to the arranged marriage his father proposed for him without realising his spouse to be was another adult male. H has never been attracted to males. Will that change? Said spouse to be also has misconceptions. Things get a bit choppy for a while and a few snarky comments fly. Just as things begin to get sorted out Caspian’s true father and his father’s wife take the bit between their teeth and decide they deserve the throne more than anyone else in the family and Caspian needs to be removed from the scene as well as his grandfather. Our galant heroes have some obstacles to overcome before they arrive at their happy ever after. Great storyline, great characters, pace and definitely great romance. A must read. I’m off to read book 2.
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