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Hidden Royals #1
Say Yes to the Princess
The first book in this USA Today bestselling author’s delicious new Hidden Royals series, in which a princess in exile searches for her lost brother—and falls for the devastatingly charming scoundrel sent to thwart her.
A hidden princess…
Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans is no longer a princess, but she’s also no commoner. She’s obscure French royalty, exiled to England in the aftermath of the revolution. She lives as a glorified houseguest of the British Royal family, guarded and gilded, but also trapped.
The cynical outcast…
Mr. Killian Crewes serves as the “Royal Fixer” in St. James’s Palace, making messy situations disappear. As the second son of an earl, cleaning up indiscretions was hardly Killian’s goal in life, but his mother’s notoriety makes him less of a peer, and more a member of staff.
A royal scandal…
When Princess Elise spots her long-lost brother in a crowded market, she's determined to find him. But her search puts the palace in an uncomfortable position, and they hire Killian to seduce the princess to distract her from meddling. Except, no one anticipated that Killian would be the one seduced instead. Now he’s risking everything for the lonely princess—his job, her reputation, and both of their hearts.
A hidden princess…
Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans is no longer a princess, but she’s also no commoner. She’s obscure French royalty, exiled to England in the aftermath of the revolution. She lives as a glorified houseguest of the British Royal family, guarded and gilded, but also trapped.
The cynical outcast…
Mr. Killian Crewes serves as the “Royal Fixer” in St. James’s Palace, making messy situations disappear. As the second son of an earl, cleaning up indiscretions was hardly Killian’s goal in life, but his mother’s notoriety makes him less of a peer, and more a member of staff.
A royal scandal…
When Princess Elise spots her long-lost brother in a crowded market, she's determined to find him. But her search puts the palace in an uncomfortable position, and they hire Killian to seduce the princess to distract her from meddling. Except, no one anticipated that Killian would be the one seduced instead. Now he’s risking everything for the lonely princess—his job, her reputation, and both of their hearts.
377 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2023
32 people are currently reading
3391 people want to read
About the author
Charis Michaels
13 books502 followersCHARIS MICHAELS is thrilled to be making her debut with Avon Impulse. Prior to writing romance, she studied Journalism at Texas A&M and managed PR for a trade association. She has also worked as a tour guide at Disney World, harvested peaches on her family’s farm, and entertained children as the “Story Godmother” at birthday parties. She has lived in Texas, Florida, and London, England. She now makes her home in the Washington, D.C.-metro area.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
May 14, 2023
✨As You Wish, Highness✨
To say the least, I was charmed. To say the most, this book is exactly what I needed. It was soft but compelling and had two incredibly lovable main characters. If you give me a book where it’s literally the hero’s job to call the heroine Princess and “as you wish” her...yeah I’m sold.
Sometimes you just gotta lick the neck of a really hot guy. Especially when he’s the human equivalent of a security blanket. Who’d have thought that calming someone down from a panic attack could be. so. EROTIC???? He was SO soft for her, while still staying very very hard. Killian Crewes the duality of man that you ARE.
I was a little wary of the premise since he was hired too seduce her, but never fear because Killian is literally a cinnamon roll of a man. He was in PAIN hanging onto that restraint because he didn’t want to mislead or seduce her in any type of slightly nefarious way. Which was annoying to both parties involved because the attraction was instantly delicious. I, however, had a marvelous time. I always love when a heroine is in awe that the hero is just a really, really good person.
I really just loved everything about this book. Elise was strong and clever, Killian was large and in charge, and their chemistry was off the charts. Her exile was very interesting, and I really felt the tension emanating from the Crown and was so worried for them. I was like how are they going to make it??? Made it they did and truly dramatic eleventh hour way. And the epilogue??? Perfection.
Charis Michaels is quickly becoming a favorite of mine and I’ll continue to read anything she writes. Her books are so much fun. Legitimately this one was WEIRD in the best way. That scene when Killian carried Elise out of the ball and just held her while she licked him (???) will never leave my brain. If you like Lenora Bell, Tessa Dare, and/or Eloisa James, I think you’d really enjoy Say Yes to the Princess!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️*/5 🌶️🌶️**/5
*So I remember that I was going to give this 4.5/5 immediately upon finishing the book, but what I don’t remember is can’t why so screw it! Five stars!
**Okay this wasn’t the steamiest book and it was definitely not steamier than A Duchess by Midnight but good lord I was melting into a puddle whenever they were together. They kept getting interrupted and I think there was only one true scene, but even then the interrupted scenes were hot and fun.
P.S. The Killian on the cover is WAY too tiny in the thigh department. Just saying.
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
To say the least, I was charmed. To say the most, this book is exactly what I needed. It was soft but compelling and had two incredibly lovable main characters. If you give me a book where it’s literally the hero’s job to call the heroine Princess and “as you wish” her...yeah I’m sold.
Sometimes you just gotta lick the neck of a really hot guy. Especially when he’s the human equivalent of a security blanket. Who’d have thought that calming someone down from a panic attack could be. so. EROTIC???? He was SO soft for her, while still staying very very hard. Killian Crewes the duality of man that you ARE.
I was a little wary of the premise since he was hired too seduce her, but never fear because Killian is literally a cinnamon roll of a man. He was in PAIN hanging onto that restraint because he didn’t want to mislead or seduce her in any type of slightly nefarious way. Which was annoying to both parties involved because the attraction was instantly delicious. I, however, had a marvelous time. I always love when a heroine is in awe that the hero is just a really, really good person.
I really just loved everything about this book. Elise was strong and clever, Killian was large and in charge, and their chemistry was off the charts. Her exile was very interesting, and I really felt the tension emanating from the Crown and was so worried for them. I was like how are they going to make it??? Made it they did and truly dramatic eleventh hour way. And the epilogue??? Perfection.
Charis Michaels is quickly becoming a favorite of mine and I’ll continue to read anything she writes. Her books are so much fun. Legitimately this one was WEIRD in the best way. That scene when Killian carried Elise out of the ball and just held her while she licked him (???) will never leave my brain. If you like Lenora Bell, Tessa Dare, and/or Eloisa James, I think you’d really enjoy Say Yes to the Princess!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️*/5 🌶️🌶️**/5
*So I remember that I was going to give this 4.5/5 immediately upon finishing the book, but what I don’t remember is can’t why so screw it! Five stars!
**Okay this wasn’t the steamiest book and it was definitely not steamier than A Duchess by Midnight but good lord I was melting into a puddle whenever they were together. They kept getting interrupted and I think there was only one true scene, but even then the interrupted scenes were hot and fun.
P.S. The Killian on the cover is WAY too tiny in the thigh department. Just saying.
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 14, 2023
4.5 stars for Say Yes to the Princess. You may know that we are OBSESSED with the Awakened by a Kiss series by Charis. Obviously we were stoked to get a complimentary copy of her newest book.
It wasn't quite what we expected (OTT whimsy, like a unicorn vomited over some romance tropes and the whole thing came out as a glittery version of historical romance), but we really loved it.
Elise: she's a princess who's also gone through some major life sh*t. She's a poor little rich girl we couldn't help but feel for. We loved her strength and resilience and unflinching hope in the face of the unknown.
Killian: he's probably Charis's most psychologically complex hero, and we loved him. (How can you NOT like a hero who's determined not to seduce the heroine NO MATTER HOW MUCH HE WANTS TO?)
Be prepared for some darker themes than previous Michaels books (Elise was imprisoned along with her family; her father was taken to the guillotine and the rest of them only barely made it out), but with a romance that's just as sweet and just as steamy as you could expect.
40-Word Summaries:
Laine: Royal fixer is assigned to mind (and seduce) a French princess in exile. The problem? He wants to, and she wants him to. When he takes her to his family home, she basically sees directly into his soul (and falls).
Meg: Elise is on a mission to find her brother. She knows that Killian’s mission is to distract her. But when his “distraction” means she gets to do more sleuthing, where’s the problem? (P.S. they are hot for each other)
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the book.
It wasn't quite what we expected (OTT whimsy, like a unicorn vomited over some romance tropes and the whole thing came out as a glittery version of historical romance), but we really loved it.
Elise: she's a princess who's also gone through some major life sh*t. She's a poor little rich girl we couldn't help but feel for. We loved her strength and resilience and unflinching hope in the face of the unknown.
Killian: he's probably Charis's most psychologically complex hero, and we loved him. (How can you NOT like a hero who's determined not to seduce the heroine NO MATTER HOW MUCH HE WANTS TO?)
Be prepared for some darker themes than previous Michaels books (Elise was imprisoned along with her family; her father was taken to the guillotine and the rest of them only barely made it out), but with a romance that's just as sweet and just as steamy as you could expect.
40-Word Summaries:
Laine: Royal fixer is assigned to mind (and seduce) a French princess in exile. The problem? He wants to, and she wants him to. When he takes her to his family home, she basically sees directly into his soul (and falls).
Meg: Elise is on a mission to find her brother. She knows that Killian’s mission is to distract her. But when his “distraction” means she gets to do more sleuthing, where’s the problem? (P.S. they are hot for each other)
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the book.
June 25, 2024
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥
Humor: Yes, a bit
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: they are kind of on page from the beginning but don’t really interact until about 7%
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after for the couple
Epilogue: kind of? The last chapter is a bit of a wrap up, but not too far in the future
Format: listened to audiobook version through Hoopla – but I did receive an e-book from NetGalley when it originally published and am just getting around to reviewing/reading
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first of Michaels’ Hidden Royals series.
Basic plot:
Elise is determined to find her missing brother. So when ‘the royal fixer’ starts managing her, she uses him to help her in her case.
Give this a try if you want:
- Georgian – 1803
- London and country settings
- light road trip
- royalty – princess heroine
- son of an Earl hero that works for the King
- light mystery aspect – the heroine is searching for her missing brother
- class difference – heroine is a princess and hero is the son of an Earl and a dancer (that has affected him socially)
- instalust (from hero)
- one horse
- child in the story (hero’s nephew) – not a huge part of the story
- must remove your wet clothes in the abandoned cottage in the woods...
- lower steam – 1 full steam but quite a few kiss scenes
Ages:
- Heroine is 25, hero is 33
First line:
Killian Crewes was known as the royal fixer.
My thoughts:
Hero falls first is such a favorite of mine! And when he has all this unrequited love roiling inside him….soooo good!
I enjoyed the premise of this one – sometimes books with royalty in them get a bit too plot focused and political for me but I found this one remained character focused. Killian was such an enjoyable hero for me. But, I LOVED Elise. I find this with Charis Michaels. She writes my favorite heroines. I adore them all. They are women I love and want to be friends with. And Elise just worked her way into my heart. And there was even a scene where she broke it a bit with her concern for her missing family.
I am not sure how I feel about a few things in this book – like the ending. I’m not sold on the hero’s actions and they annoyed me a bit. But overall this was a really sweet story that made me excited for the brother’s story next.
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥
Humor: Yes, a bit
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: they are kind of on page from the beginning but don’t really interact until about 7%
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after for the couple
Epilogue: kind of? The last chapter is a bit of a wrap up, but not too far in the future
Format: listened to audiobook version through Hoopla – but I did receive an e-book from NetGalley when it originally published and am just getting around to reviewing/reading
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first of Michaels’ Hidden Royals series.
Basic plot:
Elise is determined to find her missing brother. So when ‘the royal fixer’ starts managing her, she uses him to help her in her case.
Give this a try if you want:
- Georgian – 1803
- London and country settings
- light road trip
- royalty – princess heroine
- son of an Earl hero that works for the King
- light mystery aspect – the heroine is searching for her missing brother
- class difference – heroine is a princess and hero is the son of an Earl and a dancer (that has affected him socially)
- instalust (from hero)
- one horse
- child in the story (hero’s nephew) – not a huge part of the story
- must remove your wet clothes in the abandoned cottage in the woods...
- lower steam – 1 full steam but quite a few kiss scenes
Ages:
- Heroine is 25, hero is 33
First line:
Killian Crewes was known as the royal fixer.
My thoughts:
Hero falls first is such a favorite of mine! And when he has all this unrequited love roiling inside him….soooo good!
I enjoyed the premise of this one – sometimes books with royalty in them get a bit too plot focused and political for me but I found this one remained character focused. Killian was such an enjoyable hero for me. But, I LOVED Elise. I find this with Charis Michaels. She writes my favorite heroines. I adore them all. They are women I love and want to be friends with. And Elise just worked her way into my heart. And there was even a scene where she broke it a bit with her concern for her missing family.
I am not sure how I feel about a few things in this book – like the ending. I’m not sold on the hero’s actions and they annoyed me a bit. But overall this was a really sweet story that made me excited for the brother’s story next.
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
July 12, 2023
I absolutely adored the first book in Charis’s new series. I’m a goner for bodyguard romances and this one has a feisty heroine, a pining hero and the most intricate details about King George’s court! It was like gettjng a birdseye view behind the scenes of Queen Charlotte and the antics of the royal offspring.
What do you need to know?
There’s supposed to he an orchestrated seduction to distract a troublemaking princess.
The orchestrated seduction becomes an earnest effort to protect her and help her in her quest instead.
She has to convince him she’s onboard with a seduction.
There’s a delicious kitchen interlude.
Full review to come on my blog but add it to your TBR!!!
What do you need to know?
There’s supposed to he an orchestrated seduction to distract a troublemaking princess.
The orchestrated seduction becomes an earnest effort to protect her and help her in her quest instead.
She has to convince him she’s onboard with a seduction.
There’s a delicious kitchen interlude.
Full review to come on my blog but add it to your TBR!!!
September 27, 2024
4 stars - I liked this, but I do wish there had been less betraying body syndrome from the heroine.
Safe
-Heroine is a virgin
-Hero’s manwhore status is questionable - he’s been sent in to stop the heroine from asking questions by seducing her. He has done this task in the past with other ladies at court. Not much else is mentioned about his shitty past actions, thankfully. But this part was pretty gross on its own.
- Adding for clarity: iirc the hero doesn’t have sex with the heroine until after she knows that he’s been asked to seduce her. She’s never betrayed by him, she chooses to be with him freely.
-I’m just going to assume that the hero gave the heroine an STD or two when he took her v-card. Historical romances gross me out sometimes.
-No OW drama
-Some OM drama near the end
-No cheating or scenes with OM/OW
Safe
-Heroine is a virgin
-Hero’s manwhore status is questionable - he’s been sent in to stop the heroine from asking questions by seducing her. He has done this task in the past with other ladies at court. Not much else is mentioned about his shitty past actions, thankfully. But this part was pretty gross on its own.
- Adding for clarity: iirc the hero doesn’t have sex with the heroine until after she knows that he’s been asked to seduce her. She’s never betrayed by him, she chooses to be with him freely.
-I’m just going to assume that the hero gave the heroine an STD or two when he took her v-card. Historical romances gross me out sometimes.
-No OW drama
-Some OM drama near the end
-No cheating or scenes with OM/OW
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2023
3.75 rounded up to 4
February 28, 2023
I'm one of Charis' critique partners and this book is so beautifully written and heart-warming. Another romance classic!
June 6, 2023
The first in the Hidden Royals series, Say Yes to the Princess follows Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans, a member of French royalty exiled in England, and Killian Crewes, an English royal fixer charged with seducing and distracting the Princess. Elise has been living in England since the revolution in France when her father was killed ten years ago. She and her siblings escaped before they were killed too. But the siblings were split up, and Elise hasn’t seen them since they fled France. That is until she is sure she sees her brother and convinces Killian to help her find him.
Killian is the royal fixer, and though it is against his better judgment, he agrees to help Elise find her brother. He is so taken by the lonely and beautiful princess, and the more he gets to know Elise, the harder and deeper he falls for her. Elise also quickly falls for Killian, though their romance is slow building since both hide their feelings.
I loved Elise and Killian! They both have interesting backstories, and their individual journeys are as great as their love story. Elise fascinated me. She’s had such tragedy in her life, but she is strong and smart and a survivor. Killian is a survivor too, and though he’s done a lot of unsavory things, he’s a good man with honorable goals. Elise and Killian have a lot in common, though they have led very different lives. I think they connect on such a deep level, and they understand each other in ways that others don’t. I love how Killian is so tough and in control but is totally undone by Elise. He is so honorable and soft-hearted beneath his tough exterior, and he’s such a softie for his princess. Elise shares his feelings and finds a comfort and safety with Killian that she’s never felt before. I loved their chemistry and their unconventional love story.
I also really liked the political intrigue involving the French and British thrones. It was suspenseful and entertaining, and it was interesting to see how all of the deceit, lies, manipulation, and underhanded dealings affected the main characters. The side characters were great too, especially Killian and Elise’s closest confidantes. Love them! Hopefully, we’ll see more of them in future books!
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for providing me a copy of the novel. All thoughts are my own.
Killian is the royal fixer, and though it is against his better judgment, he agrees to help Elise find her brother. He is so taken by the lonely and beautiful princess, and the more he gets to know Elise, the harder and deeper he falls for her. Elise also quickly falls for Killian, though their romance is slow building since both hide their feelings.
I loved Elise and Killian! They both have interesting backstories, and their individual journeys are as great as their love story. Elise fascinated me. She’s had such tragedy in her life, but she is strong and smart and a survivor. Killian is a survivor too, and though he’s done a lot of unsavory things, he’s a good man with honorable goals. Elise and Killian have a lot in common, though they have led very different lives. I think they connect on such a deep level, and they understand each other in ways that others don’t. I love how Killian is so tough and in control but is totally undone by Elise. He is so honorable and soft-hearted beneath his tough exterior, and he’s such a softie for his princess. Elise shares his feelings and finds a comfort and safety with Killian that she’s never felt before. I loved their chemistry and their unconventional love story.
I also really liked the political intrigue involving the French and British thrones. It was suspenseful and entertaining, and it was interesting to see how all of the deceit, lies, manipulation, and underhanded dealings affected the main characters. The side characters were great too, especially Killian and Elise’s closest confidantes. Love them! Hopefully, we’ll see more of them in future books!
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for providing me a copy of the novel. All thoughts are my own.
August 6, 2023
I received an ARC from the publisher from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans is no longer a princess, but not a commoner either. She is obscure French royalty exiled to Great Britain. Killian Crewes serves as the "royal fixer" taking on any jobs the British royal family needs him to do. When he is tasked with seducing the princess to distract her to keep her out of trouble, he realizes she is more than she seems. She was just a job, but now she is much more than that.
I really enjoyed the first two books in Charis's Awakened by a Kiss series, but the last book and this one has fallen flat with me to the point where I am constantly closing my Kindle because I am just so frustrated that I can't keep reading. I just want the actual fairy tale feel those other books have with characters I just love. These two characters just got on my nerves to the point I was rolling my eyes during most their interactions. I was extremely disappointed and bored for the first fifty percent, and then it did finally pick up, but I was at a point of not caring. I am hoping the next book will bring back the stories that I know and love by this author, and I might give one more of her new books a try before going backwards and hoping some of those are what I am searching for.
Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans is no longer a princess, but not a commoner either. She is obscure French royalty exiled to Great Britain. Killian Crewes serves as the "royal fixer" taking on any jobs the British royal family needs him to do. When he is tasked with seducing the princess to distract her to keep her out of trouble, he realizes she is more than she seems. She was just a job, but now she is much more than that.
I really enjoyed the first two books in Charis's Awakened by a Kiss series, but the last book and this one has fallen flat with me to the point where I am constantly closing my Kindle because I am just so frustrated that I can't keep reading. I just want the actual fairy tale feel those other books have with characters I just love. These two characters just got on my nerves to the point I was rolling my eyes during most their interactions. I was extremely disappointed and bored for the first fifty percent, and then it did finally pick up, but I was at a point of not caring. I am hoping the next book will bring back the stories that I know and love by this author, and I might give one more of her new books a try before going backwards and hoping some of those are what I am searching for.
June 18, 2023
I am a sucker for any kind of royal romance, is that a trope? If not, I’m going to pretend it is. Say Yes to the Princess was so lovely and I’m so grateful that I got to read it in advance! Charis Michaels is one of my favorite authors and I’ve been waiting a year for this book.
Elise is a French Princess who fled to England during the French Revolution. She has been through hell and back but she is determined to be reunited with her long lost brother and sister. Enter Killian, the “royal fixer”.
Killian is tasked with distracting the princess by any means possible, and we do mean any means 😏😏😉 He agrees to help Elise look for her brother but what starts out as a one day carriage ride from town to town turns into an all out adventure!
Elise is a French Princess who fled to England during the French Revolution. She has been through hell and back but she is determined to be reunited with her long lost brother and sister. Enter Killian, the “royal fixer”.
Killian is tasked with distracting the princess by any means possible, and we do mean any means 😏😏😉 He agrees to help Elise look for her brother but what starts out as a one day carriage ride from town to town turns into an all out adventure!
Read
October 31, 2024DNF at 30%
In four days, I haven't gotten further than 30% and it was a bit of a struggle. I'm just not interested in these two or the plot at all.
I might come back to this at some point because I do love the other books that I've read from Charis.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
In four days, I haven't gotten further than 30% and it was a bit of a struggle. I'm just not interested in these two or the plot at all.
I might come back to this at some point because I do love the other books that I've read from Charis.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
August 20, 2023
Rating: 4.5 stars
This book is adorable! Chris Michaels is such a fun author to read. I love her writing and how she transports you to another time. I also love reading her author's notes in the back of every book explaining what exactly was fictional and what was based on true events. This new series is so fun, but also has those serious topics that she weaves throughout the story.
An exiled princess is trying to find her lost brother; however, the family who took her in want to keep her silent. Of course the solution is to hire the Royal Fixer to seduce her. And obviously he wants to be noble and not seduce her, so he fights his attraction. I really enjoyed the plot of this story. I loved how Elise had anxiety and Killian helped her through it. And I loved how strong Elise's character was, especially with all she had gone through.
This was definitely a unique historical romance that had all the tension/pinning to build up to the romance. I obviously recommend this author and can't wait to see what's in store next for this series!
This book is adorable! Chris Michaels is such a fun author to read. I love her writing and how she transports you to another time. I also love reading her author's notes in the back of every book explaining what exactly was fictional and what was based on true events. This new series is so fun, but also has those serious topics that she weaves throughout the story.
An exiled princess is trying to find her lost brother; however, the family who took her in want to keep her silent. Of course the solution is to hire the Royal Fixer to seduce her. And obviously he wants to be noble and not seduce her, so he fights his attraction. I really enjoyed the plot of this story. I loved how Elise had anxiety and Killian helped her through it. And I loved how strong Elise's character was, especially with all she had gone through.
This was definitely a unique historical romance that had all the tension/pinning to build up to the romance. I obviously recommend this author and can't wait to see what's in store next for this series!
May 25, 2023
Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans is an obscure French royal, living in exile with the English Court in the aftermath of the revolution. Mr. Killian Crewes serves as the “Royal Fixer” in St. James’s Palace. He is hired to seduce and distract the princess from causing trouble, but she is the one that ends up bewitching him.
This is the first book in the Hidden Royals series. After just watching the Queen Charlotte show, I was excited to jump into the time period of this novel. This book is a little tricky to review because I was expecting one thing from the blurb, but the story did not progress at all as I expected.
Elise is living a very lonely life under lock and key, but feels a spark of hope when she spots a man who she believes is her brother. All the children were separated and smuggled out of France, and Elise doesn't know what has become of her siblings. When she starts asking questions, she put off by advisors and cut off from the Queen...and Killian is hired to keep her busy, by any means necessary. I believed the story was going to focus more on the search for the missing brother and a battle of wills between Elise and Killian, but it actually became a slow burn with the characters learning to open up to each other and share their past trauma. I did liked parts of the book, but sadly it wasn't really what I wanted at the time, (3.5 stars)
Tropes: Royalty, Class Difference, Forced Proximity, Protector-ish, Road Trip
Steam: 1
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the first book in the Hidden Royals series. After just watching the Queen Charlotte show, I was excited to jump into the time period of this novel. This book is a little tricky to review because I was expecting one thing from the blurb, but the story did not progress at all as I expected.
Elise is living a very lonely life under lock and key, but feels a spark of hope when she spots a man who she believes is her brother. All the children were separated and smuggled out of France, and Elise doesn't know what has become of her siblings. When she starts asking questions, she put off by advisors and cut off from the Queen...and Killian is hired to keep her busy, by any means necessary. I believed the story was going to focus more on the search for the missing brother and a battle of wills between Elise and Killian, but it actually became a slow burn with the characters learning to open up to each other and share their past trauma. I did liked parts of the book, but sadly it wasn't really what I wanted at the time, (3.5 stars)
Tropes: Royalty, Class Difference, Forced Proximity, Protector-ish, Road Trip
Steam: 1
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
July 14, 2023
A Charis book is always a delight. It's like eating a marshmallow while wrapped in a heated blanket on a snowy night while someone massages your feet. I always feel safe, calm sense of total enjoyment while reading her books.
Review:
Y'all, "Say Yes to the Princess," let me tell you-
Over a year ago, I had dinner with Charis and like 10 of of my favorite Booksta friends. That night, Charis told us that her new series was about hidden royals. I was SOLD! I love the premise of secret identities and mysteries and I especially love a series that has an overarching arc.
It should be no surprise that I then stayed up until 2am to finish this book.
A Charis book always fills me with champagne bubbles of joy and happiness.
It's such a treat. Like a Sundae.
So let's make a Charis Sundae.
The Waffle bowl: The main tropes in this book are Royal and Commoner, and Partners On A Mission looking for the Heroine's long lost brother.
The Ice Cream: However, our Hero is suppose to distract her because the English royal family doesn’t want her to find her brother.
The Hot Fudge: Y'all, he falls first and pretty instantly and it's adorable. Melts my fudge.
The Peanuts: They have secret...
The Whipped Cream: His family is a hilarious hot mess. A+ side characters I hope to see again.
The Chari-Cherry on Top: The overall plot isn't over!! We get more of this separated family and the mystery behind why they are separated once we get to Gabriel and Danielle's stories!!
Man, I really wish I could binge this whole series in one sitting. Currently very impatient for the next two.
This maaaay be my favorite Charis book to date. Will have to think on that more.
Alrightly, they kissed, amd kissed a lot (someone get this girl some chapstic) and I've told you about it!
Review:
Y'all, "Say Yes to the Princess," let me tell you-
Over a year ago, I had dinner with Charis and like 10 of of my favorite Booksta friends. That night, Charis told us that her new series was about hidden royals. I was SOLD! I love the premise of secret identities and mysteries and I especially love a series that has an overarching arc.
It should be no surprise that I then stayed up until 2am to finish this book.
A Charis book always fills me with champagne bubbles of joy and happiness.
It's such a treat. Like a Sundae.
So let's make a Charis Sundae.
The Waffle bowl: The main tropes in this book are Royal and Commoner, and Partners On A Mission looking for the Heroine's long lost brother.
The Ice Cream: However, our Hero is suppose to distract her because the English royal family doesn’t want her to find her brother.
The Hot Fudge: Y'all, he falls first and pretty instantly and it's adorable. Melts my fudge.
The Peanuts: They have secret...
The Whipped Cream: His family is a hilarious hot mess. A+ side characters I hope to see again.
The Chari-Cherry on Top: The overall plot isn't over!! We get more of this separated family and the mystery behind why they are separated once we get to Gabriel and Danielle's stories!!
Man, I really wish I could binge this whole series in one sitting. Currently very impatient for the next two.
This maaaay be my favorite Charis book to date. Will have to think on that more.
Alrightly, they kissed, amd kissed a lot (someone get this girl some chapstic) and I've told you about it!
May 8, 2023
I read about half of this book and couldn't pain myself anymore. Elise falls in love with Killian after knowing him a solid 24 hours. I can't deal with insta-love like that. She literally knows nothing about him, especially that he's working against her. Except he isn't because he is in love with her after meeting her the first time. I hope she found her brother, but considering she's supposed to be a French princess I couldn't conceive of any ending that would make any logical sense. The intimacy scenes are lackluster to me. One of the biggest groans was the amount of typos though.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me this ARC.
July 13, 2023
4 Stars! This is the first book in the new trilogy series ‘Hidden Royals’ and can be read as a standalone with only a few things unfinished in this book. The main characters are Princess Elise and Killian Crewes. I loved Elise from the get go and Killian took a little warming up to for me to like him too. Dang Royals, being all demanding and secretive. Tip for future use - Never trust a Royal! This was a pretty fast “falling in love” book and had me thinking it was more lust than love. The book has witty banter, court politics, secrets, lies and betrayal, and the Princess has a cousin/lady in waiting who deserved a good punch in the throat. All of that is wrapped up with a surprising HEA ending that I really loved. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series and seeing how this all wraps up. Do the ‘Hidden Royals’ ever find each other?! Can’t wait to see if they do & how. Also- shout out to the author for adding the historical facts and fiction at the end of the book! I love learning about the past through entertaining fictional historical romance that includes factual bits from history & I appreciate the author highlighting what was truth and what the author made up.
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
November 16, 2023
Say Yes to the Princess was a fantastic read featuring a romance between an exiled princess and a royal fixer.
Former French Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans was exiled to England in the aftermath of the revolution. She lives a privileged life as a houseguest of the British Royal family, but she's also trapped. Separated from her brother for years, Elise spots someone who looks just like him in a crowded market and begins to search for him. Mr. Killian Crewes is the "Royal Fixer" at St. James's Palace, getting rid of messy situations for the royal family. When the royal family catches word of Elise's search, they hire Killian to seduce and distract her to stop her meddling. But no one anticipated that Killian would be the one seduced and now he's putting everything on the line for the princess.
I liked Elise's character right from the start and how she refused to give up searching for her family even though the royal family wants her to stop. She's very clever and I admired how strong she was in face of all the obstacles in her life. Killian was an absolute delight and my favorite character by far. He's quite charming and it's easy to see why he would be hired to seduce someone. I liked all the plans he had for his future and all that he had already accomplished.
Elise and Killian are fantastic together and I thoroughly enjoyed their romance. His plans to charm her backfire when he's charmed by her instead and I loved how baffled he was that things weren't going according to plan. He also had to constantly talk himself out of pursuing her which was just delightful. Ultimately he ends up aiding her search instead and they worked so well together. There was a bit of unnecessary drama near the end but it was thankfully worked through pretty quickly. I was happy with the direction their romance went and how everything was wrapped up.
Overall Say Yes to the Princess was a great book and I'm looking forward to reading the story of Elise's brother in The Prince's Bride soon.
Former French Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans was exiled to England in the aftermath of the revolution. She lives a privileged life as a houseguest of the British Royal family, but she's also trapped. Separated from her brother for years, Elise spots someone who looks just like him in a crowded market and begins to search for him. Mr. Killian Crewes is the "Royal Fixer" at St. James's Palace, getting rid of messy situations for the royal family. When the royal family catches word of Elise's search, they hire Killian to seduce and distract her to stop her meddling. But no one anticipated that Killian would be the one seduced and now he's putting everything on the line for the princess.
I liked Elise's character right from the start and how she refused to give up searching for her family even though the royal family wants her to stop. She's very clever and I admired how strong she was in face of all the obstacles in her life. Killian was an absolute delight and my favorite character by far. He's quite charming and it's easy to see why he would be hired to seduce someone. I liked all the plans he had for his future and all that he had already accomplished.
Elise and Killian are fantastic together and I thoroughly enjoyed their romance. His plans to charm her backfire when he's charmed by her instead and I loved how baffled he was that things weren't going according to plan. He also had to constantly talk himself out of pursuing her which was just delightful. Ultimately he ends up aiding her search instead and they worked so well together. There was a bit of unnecessary drama near the end but it was thankfully worked through pretty quickly. I was happy with the direction their romance went and how everything was wrapped up.
Overall Say Yes to the Princess was a great book and I'm looking forward to reading the story of Elise's brother in The Prince's Bride soon.
July 4, 2023
“It was as if he’d expertly untied the ribbons of her heart, slid them over her body, bound her up, released her, and then retied all of it with a new knot, known only to him.”
This is the swoony sort of storytelling you’ll get from Charis Michaels’ latest historical romance, SAY YES TO THE PRINCESS. I highlighted more pages than I can count!
Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans is a French Princess who fled to England as a 15 year old girl during the French Revolution. She was separated from her family and has been an unwilling house guest of the British royal family for the past ten years. On a carriage ride through the countryside, she spots a man who is the image of her deceased father and must be her younger brother. This event awakens her from a fog of depression, and she begins the search for her younger brother and potential heir to the Throne.
But the British Royals would rather him not be found, so they hire Mr. Killian Crewes, the “Royal Fixer” to stop the princess from causing trouble by any means necessary. Killian, a disgraced second son of an earl, agrees to seduce the princess — for a price. It’s just not the one he expected.
Anything royal ups the ante on your typical regency romance, and Charis does share a little bit about what was real and manipulated in the author’s note. Her original thought was to invent a small European country in turmoil, but she ultimately chose the bold path to make these characters a branch of the French Royal family, which was a great choice. She expertly weaves fact with fiction in a way that adds real depth to her characters. I can’t wait for the next in this series!
Thank you to Charis for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. SAY YES TO THE PRINCESS is out 7/11/23.
This is the swoony sort of storytelling you’ll get from Charis Michaels’ latest historical romance, SAY YES TO THE PRINCESS. I highlighted more pages than I can count!
Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans is a French Princess who fled to England as a 15 year old girl during the French Revolution. She was separated from her family and has been an unwilling house guest of the British royal family for the past ten years. On a carriage ride through the countryside, she spots a man who is the image of her deceased father and must be her younger brother. This event awakens her from a fog of depression, and she begins the search for her younger brother and potential heir to the Throne.
But the British Royals would rather him not be found, so they hire Mr. Killian Crewes, the “Royal Fixer” to stop the princess from causing trouble by any means necessary. Killian, a disgraced second son of an earl, agrees to seduce the princess — for a price. It’s just not the one he expected.
Anything royal ups the ante on your typical regency romance, and Charis does share a little bit about what was real and manipulated in the author’s note. Her original thought was to invent a small European country in turmoil, but she ultimately chose the bold path to make these characters a branch of the French Royal family, which was a great choice. She expertly weaves fact with fiction in a way that adds real depth to her characters. I can’t wait for the next in this series!
Thank you to Charis for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. SAY YES TO THE PRINCESS is out 7/11/23.
July 8, 2023
Charis Michaels has the most creative brain. The themes of her stories are so creative and smart and I am going to gobble them up every single time. This start of a new series is based on royals who are hidden. Elise is a French princess in exile after the French Revolution. Killian is the palace fixer. Basically he Olivia Pope's everything at court and his current assignment is do distract Elise. Proximity is close and adventures are had and this road trip is one that kept me turning pages and crossing my fingers for more from this world.
May 19, 2023
Regine d’Orleans, princess in exile in England, searches for her lost brother—and falls for Mr. Killian Crewes, the “Royal Fixer” in St. James’s Palace, a scoundrel overcoming his past sent to thwart her attempts by seducing her.
Slow beginning, too much exposition, insta-love, little closure, and a distracting number of italicized words. I couldn’t get invested in their relationship, Killian’s family issues, or the missing brother.
I received an arc from net galley
Slow beginning, too much exposition, insta-love, little closure, and a distracting number of italicized words. I couldn’t get invested in their relationship, Killian’s family issues, or the missing brother.
I received an arc from net galley
June 19, 2023
What a good story! Elise and Killian were great together. I loved how Elise grew and stood up for what she wanted. And despite Killian feeling like he didn't deserve her, he stood up for what he wanted.
October 11, 2024
3.5 stars
July 25, 2023
A royal bodyguard romance! Sign me up! Charis Michaels weaves together an intriguing plot with a sensual romance at its center, to beautifully launch her new series! Michaels' writing is accessible and clever, her characters are bold and fun, and the balance between plot and romance works beautifully together. Any lover of Charis Michaels or historical romance is sure to find delight within this novel.
This fake seduction plot swiftly transitions to one of protection. The hero and heroine have a lovely sensual chemistry with the other, and the push and pull of their emotions really drives the romance along. A hero who just wants to protect and has to convince himself that seduction is not the answer (no matter how much he wishes for it), is fun and sexy. The heroine is bold and strong, and watching her maneuver in new situations is interesting and rewarding. Watching these two learn to work together, trust each other, and accept their feelings for the other is charming and fun.
If you adore a bodyguard romance, than Say Yes to the Princess is sure to delight. Charis Michaels is a wonderful historical romance author who should definitely be on your radar!
Thank you so much to Avon Books and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This fake seduction plot swiftly transitions to one of protection. The hero and heroine have a lovely sensual chemistry with the other, and the push and pull of their emotions really drives the romance along. A hero who just wants to protect and has to convince himself that seduction is not the answer (no matter how much he wishes for it), is fun and sexy. The heroine is bold and strong, and watching her maneuver in new situations is interesting and rewarding. Watching these two learn to work together, trust each other, and accept their feelings for the other is charming and fun.
If you adore a bodyguard romance, than Say Yes to the Princess is sure to delight. Charis Michaels is a wonderful historical romance author who should definitely be on your radar!
Thank you so much to Avon Books and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 10, 2023
Big thanks to Avon Publishing for an ARC of this book. This review is being given honestly and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Overall 4.5/5 stars rounded up to 5 but rating may change with some time
CWs: childhood bullying (past but referenced and memories on page), anxiety (MC has panic attack and triggered by a crowd, mentions of another character with anxiety who also experiences panic attacks), death of a parent (three parents are deceased, all past but mention of execution on page as it was witnessed by MC)
I REALLY enjoyed this book! I’ve read only one other Charis Michaels book before and it was a good time but this definitely trumps it. Say Yes to the Princess is the start of a new trilogy featuring runaway royals from the French monarchy who were secreted away to live in exile in England. Book one focuses on the oldest of the three siblings, Elise who after ten years of docile living in the English Court believes she has spotted her brother who was assumed to be dead. Here enter Killian, the royal fixer, who is meant to do whatever to distract Elise from looking for her brother.
I really liked how the author weaved the history aspect into the romance (obviously this is only loosely based on real historical people and events) but it added a VERY nice touch and helped keep me intrigued. Like I picked this up as soon as I got approval because not only was the synopsis interesting but once I started I could not stop. Right away I was really loving both characters, especially Elise. I was honestly a little scared due to the ‘deception’ aspect of their relationship because those types of ploys always make me a bit wary BUT the author did such a good job with this. Like right away Killian (after saying yes to the assignment) was pretty much like yea not doing that (lie and seduce her) and he was smitten form their first meeting. Elise was kind of surprising only because there was so much depth to her character and background which was a lot of fun.
I think their romance had great build up even though it was fast, like it was really seamless and you don’t really think about how long they’ve known each other and whatnot. I also loved how low angst this book turned out to be because there were quite a few ways Charis could have ramped up the angst and tension of this book but she didn’t and I appreciate that because the book was amazing without it. I will mention that she definitely included the plots/issues that would have led to higher tension/angst the author just handled them so well without a lot of conflict which is what I love to see. I will say Charis had me at the end, like I thought there was gonna be a third act breakup/‘I’m breaking up with you for your own good/I’m not good enough’ BUT THERE WASN’T, she resolved it so quickly and rationally and it was beautiful.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and the romance, like this was just so much fun and so light hearted. I will say this isn’t a slow burn because it was basically love at first sight for both of them but again, the author’s writing and pacing pulled it together seamlessly. I am absolutely intrigued by the background plot and look forward to the next book in the series (wish I could have it rn actually). Would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a low angst romance featuring strangers to lovers, love at first sight, and royal romance/class-difference.
Overall 4.5/5 stars rounded up to 5 but rating may change with some time
CWs: childhood bullying (past but referenced and memories on page), anxiety (MC has panic attack and triggered by a crowd, mentions of another character with anxiety who also experiences panic attacks), death of a parent (three parents are deceased, all past but mention of execution on page as it was witnessed by MC)
I REALLY enjoyed this book! I’ve read only one other Charis Michaels book before and it was a good time but this definitely trumps it. Say Yes to the Princess is the start of a new trilogy featuring runaway royals from the French monarchy who were secreted away to live in exile in England. Book one focuses on the oldest of the three siblings, Elise who after ten years of docile living in the English Court believes she has spotted her brother who was assumed to be dead. Here enter Killian, the royal fixer, who is meant to do whatever to distract Elise from looking for her brother.
I really liked how the author weaved the history aspect into the romance (obviously this is only loosely based on real historical people and events) but it added a VERY nice touch and helped keep me intrigued. Like I picked this up as soon as I got approval because not only was the synopsis interesting but once I started I could not stop. Right away I was really loving both characters, especially Elise. I was honestly a little scared due to the ‘deception’ aspect of their relationship because those types of ploys always make me a bit wary BUT the author did such a good job with this. Like right away Killian (after saying yes to the assignment) was pretty much like yea not doing that (lie and seduce her) and he was smitten form their first meeting. Elise was kind of surprising only because there was so much depth to her character and background which was a lot of fun.
I think their romance had great build up even though it was fast, like it was really seamless and you don’t really think about how long they’ve known each other and whatnot. I also loved how low angst this book turned out to be because there were quite a few ways Charis could have ramped up the angst and tension of this book but she didn’t and I appreciate that because the book was amazing without it. I will mention that she definitely included the plots/issues that would have led to higher tension/angst the author just handled them so well without a lot of conflict which is what I love to see. I will say Charis had me at the end, like I thought there was gonna be a third act breakup/‘I’m breaking up with you for your own good/I’m not good enough’ BUT THERE WASN’T, she resolved it so quickly and rationally and it was beautiful.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and the romance, like this was just so much fun and so light hearted. I will say this isn’t a slow burn because it was basically love at first sight for both of them but again, the author’s writing and pacing pulled it together seamlessly. I am absolutely intrigued by the background plot and look forward to the next book in the series (wish I could have it rn actually). Would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a low angst romance featuring strangers to lovers, love at first sight, and royal romance/class-difference.
April 11, 2023
Genre: historical romance
London, 1803
Killian Crewes, second son of an earl, is known as the Royal Fixer. When the Royal Family needs something fixed, swept under the rug, or otherwise dealt with, Killian handles it… for a price. When one of the Royal Dukes comes to him with his next assignment, Killian is wary but thinks it won’t be much of a hardship to seduce Her Serene Highness, Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans. Exiled from France after the Revolution and cloistered in the palace with the English royal family, Elise has been living in a fog of depression, until the day she sees a man she believes to be her younger brother. Now, bent on leaving the palace in search of him, Elise sees Killian as a means to help her search.
Anything with royals takes on a different tone from the standard regency aristocracy, with duty and intrigue with higher stakes wrapped around the characters. Instead of inventing a small country in Europe, Charis Michaels goes bold and makes her Princess Elise from a branch of the French royal family. I loved this as it gives the novel more depth.
Elise carries both an air of haughtiness appropriate to royalty, but also the fear and sorrow of someone who spent time in prison and watched her father’s execution. And as a courtier always on the outside looking in, grappling for footing in society, Killian is cold and determined when it comes to his job as Fixer, but has an incredibly soft heart underneath.
Picking up a new Charis Michaels book is an utter delight. She has a way of writing sweet and sexy and charming that I love to devour, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of reading this. Plus, there is not one, but TWO carriage scenes as she turns up the heat on this one!
Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for an eARC for review. Say Yes to the Princess is out 7/11/23, and is the first book in a new series!
London, 1803
Killian Crewes, second son of an earl, is known as the Royal Fixer. When the Royal Family needs something fixed, swept under the rug, or otherwise dealt with, Killian handles it… for a price. When one of the Royal Dukes comes to him with his next assignment, Killian is wary but thinks it won’t be much of a hardship to seduce Her Serene Highness, Princess Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans. Exiled from France after the Revolution and cloistered in the palace with the English royal family, Elise has been living in a fog of depression, until the day she sees a man she believes to be her younger brother. Now, bent on leaving the palace in search of him, Elise sees Killian as a means to help her search.
Anything with royals takes on a different tone from the standard regency aristocracy, with duty and intrigue with higher stakes wrapped around the characters. Instead of inventing a small country in Europe, Charis Michaels goes bold and makes her Princess Elise from a branch of the French royal family. I loved this as it gives the novel more depth.
Elise carries both an air of haughtiness appropriate to royalty, but also the fear and sorrow of someone who spent time in prison and watched her father’s execution. And as a courtier always on the outside looking in, grappling for footing in society, Killian is cold and determined when it comes to his job as Fixer, but has an incredibly soft heart underneath.
Picking up a new Charis Michaels book is an utter delight. She has a way of writing sweet and sexy and charming that I love to devour, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of reading this. Plus, there is not one, but TWO carriage scenes as she turns up the heat on this one!
Thank you to Avon and Netgalley for an eARC for review. Say Yes to the Princess is out 7/11/23, and is the first book in a new series!
December 21, 2023
Killain Crewes is known as the royal fixer. When the British Royal family has a problem they want removed they call Killian. Her Serene Highness, Regine Elise Adelaide d’Orleans is the Royal Family’s current problem. Elise is an exiled French princess who is the houseguest of the Royal family.
Recently Elise thought she saw her missing brother in the countryside on her way back to the palace. Now she is desperate to find him. She needs to know if this man is her brother Prince Gabriel. Unfortunately this is a problem for the Royal family. They will not endorse her search. This is why they have dispatched the royal fixer.
Killian is hired to seduce Elise. They want Elise so distracted she will not care about finding her long lost brother. Killian is a man of honor. He does not want to trick Elise and seduce her.
Killian and Elise have an almost instant connection. Killian is attracted to Elise. Elise is intrigued by Killian. He is a distraction that she cannot allow to interfere with her quest to find her brother. Yet she discovers that by allowing him to escort her, she can do more investigations into finding her brother. What is the problem? She is surprised about her strong feelings for him since she has not known him long. Can it be love Elise feels? Killian finds he wants to help Elise find her brother not stop her. Can he actually seduce Elise like he was hired to do? Can he stop her investigations or will he help her? Their back and forth banter was entertaining. They are hot together!
The author weaves a story that captures your attention from the start. It is an easy read and a page turner. Watching them fall in love was enjoyable. The story flows and keeps you entertained. The author has you rooting for the couple and hoping they will be together. This is book one in the Hidden Royals trilogy. I look forward to her next books and reading the stories about Elise’s brother and sister. I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Recently Elise thought she saw her missing brother in the countryside on her way back to the palace. Now she is desperate to find him. She needs to know if this man is her brother Prince Gabriel. Unfortunately this is a problem for the Royal family. They will not endorse her search. This is why they have dispatched the royal fixer.
Killian is hired to seduce Elise. They want Elise so distracted she will not care about finding her long lost brother. Killian is a man of honor. He does not want to trick Elise and seduce her.
Killian and Elise have an almost instant connection. Killian is attracted to Elise. Elise is intrigued by Killian. He is a distraction that she cannot allow to interfere with her quest to find her brother. Yet she discovers that by allowing him to escort her, she can do more investigations into finding her brother. What is the problem? She is surprised about her strong feelings for him since she has not known him long. Can it be love Elise feels? Killian finds he wants to help Elise find her brother not stop her. Can he actually seduce Elise like he was hired to do? Can he stop her investigations or will he help her? Their back and forth banter was entertaining. They are hot together!
The author weaves a story that captures your attention from the start. It is an easy read and a page turner. Watching them fall in love was enjoyable. The story flows and keeps you entertained. The author has you rooting for the couple and hoping they will be together. This is book one in the Hidden Royals trilogy. I look forward to her next books and reading the stories about Elise’s brother and sister. I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 15, 2024
2.5
This was incredibly disappointing.
This book didn’t deliver on several different levels. I struggled with the beginning and just when I thought it was getting good it didn’t go there. A kiss didn’t happen until 213 pages in, the tension was mediocre, the sex was absolutely pitiful and the ending was rushed.
Chairs Michaels is the QUEEN of kissing books! Every book I have read by her before this had such wonderful kisses. This one? There were almost no kisses! The sex scene literally wasn’t even described. I couldn’t tell what was going on, just when I thought they had actually joined… they hadn’t, not well written at all. The last 50 ish pages were so rushed. And the best parts were told in a recap!!! Excuse me what? That sounded like the most interesting part.
I think the marriage and sneaking around should have been the plot of the book. I think the plot of looking for her brother took up all the page time with absolutely no freaking outcome. It would have been much more interesting for Killian to be tasked with handling her, they spend time together, fall in love, have their secret engagement where the conflict is them racing against the proposal from the prussian count, to get married before the royal family can marry her off. Because in the recap they discuss hidden park kisses and carriage love making… LIKE WHY HOLD OUT ON ME??? That is a story I would have gobbled up!
I am so disappointed. After reading One For The Rogue I had such high hopes for this book and it fell sorely flat. It had potential but the plot focused on the wrong conflict. I might give up on this series and wait for another one 🥺
Safety & Info:
3 person dual POV
Spice: 0.5🔥
Romance meter: 💚/ 5
Magic meter: none
◇Ow drama: no
◇Om drama: no but at the end the h is proposed to by a prussian count, he didn’t even show up in person
◇No cheating/sharing/triangle
◇4 day separation
◇No 3rd act breakup
◇No protection however after the first time the hero says he is “careful”
◇Ages: H 33, h 25
◇HEA 2 weeks later, married in Spain
This was incredibly disappointing.
This book didn’t deliver on several different levels. I struggled with the beginning and just when I thought it was getting good it didn’t go there. A kiss didn’t happen until 213 pages in, the tension was mediocre, the sex was absolutely pitiful and the ending was rushed.
Chairs Michaels is the QUEEN of kissing books! Every book I have read by her before this had such wonderful kisses. This one? There were almost no kisses! The sex scene literally wasn’t even described. I couldn’t tell what was going on, just when I thought they had actually joined… they hadn’t, not well written at all. The last 50 ish pages were so rushed. And the best parts were told in a recap!!! Excuse me what? That sounded like the most interesting part.
I think the marriage and sneaking around should have been the plot of the book. I think the plot of looking for her brother took up all the page time with absolutely no freaking outcome. It would have been much more interesting for Killian to be tasked with handling her, they spend time together, fall in love, have their secret engagement where the conflict is them racing against the proposal from the prussian count, to get married before the royal family can marry her off. Because in the recap they discuss hidden park kisses and carriage love making… LIKE WHY HOLD OUT ON ME??? That is a story I would have gobbled up!
I am so disappointed. After reading One For The Rogue I had such high hopes for this book and it fell sorely flat. It had potential but the plot focused on the wrong conflict. I might give up on this series and wait for another one 🥺
Safety & Info:
3 person dual POV
Spice: 0.5🔥
Romance meter: 💚/ 5
Magic meter: none
◇Ow drama: no
◇Om drama: no but at the end the h is proposed to by a prussian count, he didn’t even show up in person
◇No cheating/sharing/triangle
◇4 day separation
◇No 3rd act breakup
◇No protection however after the first time the hero says he is “careful”
◇Ages: H 33, h 25
◇HEA 2 weeks later, married in Spain
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2024
This had one of those somewhat minor historical plot points/facts that fundamentally doesn't matter to the story but completely threw me out of the book once it was confirmed:
Anyway, not really THAT important to the story, but it really threw me out of it for a bit, and then unfortunately happens at about the same time as the book was less engaging (the last quarter or so was very eh, compared to the first half). Will continue the series, because I like the concept but I remain very perturbed by the hand waving of historical fact.
Anyway, not really THAT important to the story, but it really threw me out of it for a bit, and then unfortunately happens at about the same time as the book was less engaging (the last quarter or so was very eh, compared to the first half). Will continue the series, because I like the concept but I remain very perturbed by the hand waving of historical fact.
did-not-finish
June 10, 2024Throwing in the towel at 83%, mostly because I can't believe there are still 70+ pages to go.
This was just not for me, unfortunately. Even after adjusting my expectations, I just could not with these people: the wishy-washy heroine, who claims to want nothing more in the world than to find her brother (spoiler: but after meeting the hero exactly one time, she spends most of her thought processes wishing he'd jump her bones already/wondering why he hasn't. The hero was at least internally consistent in his characterization, though he too fell into a haze of instalust that didn't really make sense.
Their pants feelings get in the way of the plot, and quite frankly, I do not care about these peoples' pants feelings. It was so cringey to read every cliched romance trope that I started skimming them (alone in a passageway, alone in a carriage/accident, a rainstorm, the hero's conveniently nearby private estate, etc etc etc).
I agree 100% with Kit's review. I have at least one other book by this author on Mount TBR, so I'll give her another chance, but I was Not Impressed with this offering.
This was just not for me, unfortunately. Even after adjusting my expectations, I just could not with these people: the wishy-washy heroine, who claims to want nothing more in the world than to find her brother (spoiler: but after meeting the hero exactly one time, she spends most of her thought processes wishing he'd jump her bones already/wondering why he hasn't. The hero was at least internally consistent in his characterization, though he too fell into a haze of instalust that didn't really make sense.
Their pants feelings get in the way of the plot, and quite frankly, I do not care about these peoples' pants feelings. It was so cringey to read every cliched romance trope that I started skimming them (alone in a passageway, alone in a carriage/accident, a rainstorm, the hero's conveniently nearby private estate, etc etc etc).
I agree 100% with Kit's review. I have at least one other book by this author on Mount TBR, so I'll give her another chance, but I was Not Impressed with this offering.
July 16, 2023
3 stars
Fell in love way too quickly after spending barely any time with each other. Seemed more like lust than love to me. Was my first book by Charis Michaels and also wasn't impressed by the love scenes (or fooling around scenes); not very hot and spicy. Which they don't have to be, but it felt like they were trying to be and failing. I like more descriptions, more anatomical namings, more information about what exactly is going on, in my love scenes.
She gave both main characters interesting backstories, so there was a lot of promise to this book, but it felt short and everything felt a little quick.
Don't know if I'll pick up the next book in the series.
Fell in love way too quickly after spending barely any time with each other. Seemed more like lust than love to me. Was my first book by Charis Michaels and also wasn't impressed by the love scenes (or fooling around scenes); not very hot and spicy. Which they don't have to be, but it felt like they were trying to be and failing. I like more descriptions, more anatomical namings, more information about what exactly is going on, in my love scenes.
She gave both main characters interesting backstories, so there was a lot of promise to this book, but it felt short and everything felt a little quick.
Don't know if I'll pick up the next book in the series.
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