⭐⭐⭐☆
This is a contemporary romance but reads like a cross
between a historical (thanks to the whole royalty aspect) and futuristic (where
important heads of state are women and out British royalty are totally
acceptable) tale. Nevertheless, it is highly engaging and entertaining.
Captain Quincy is a Royal Marines Officer decorated with the
Victoria Cross for gallantry. However, when she catches a fellow officer
sexually assaulting a young lady her anger overcomes her restraint and beats
him to what is considered ‘excessive’. Instead of being court-martialled for
this, she is assigned to protection-of-the-royal-family duty. Holly Weaver is a
part of the royal entourage. She is the Queen Consort’s best friend and the royal
dresser.
The author creates two very relatable characters. Quincy is
introverted, haunted by self-recrimination for what she sees as a failure and a
product of very tough upbringing. She feels so much and so deeply that she
actively doesn’t allow herself to feel. Holly is physically bisexual, but
emotionally gay. A past relationship with a woman has scarred her so badly that
she choose to have only men in her life because she knows they cannot reach or
hurt her more emotionally.
Quincey’s quietude and mental torture are offset by Holly’s
openness and lust for life. Holly’s determination and tenacity in trying to
reach Quincy are total wish-fulfilment of a person like that.
The chemistry and attraction is excellently built. However,
after they get together for the first time, Quincy’s running-away act to add to
the drama was unnecessary and excessive. If this wasn’t a romance, Holly would’ve
just abandoned the relationship then and there. But this is a romance, so she
hangs around and pursues Quincy despite unjustified jerkface behaviour.
Apart from that one glitch, this is a thoroughly enjoyable
romance. And yes, there are a few utterly satisfying sex scenes too.
⭐⭐⭐☆
