Susan F. (scoutmomskf) - , reviewed on 8/9/2023 + 2547 more book reviews

Axel is the second son of King Josef, so he doesn't have the stress of being the heir. In his younger days, Axel did his best to live down to the press's expectations with his playboy ways. When that lifestyle wore thin, Axel looked for something he could do that would make a difference, eventually settling on the job of Castle Administrator after noting its inefficiency. Unfortunately for him, he's done such a great job, and everything runs so smoothly that no one realizes how much work he puts into it. The book opens with a meeting between the king, Axel, and his brother Liam that left him feeling unappreciated. He decides he needs a night off and sneaks out of the palace in disguise to spend the evening being a "normal" person. He doesn't expect to be spotted and followed by one of the palace guards.

Heather is off-duty when she spots Axel sneaking out and follows him, feeling she must watch over him. When things go sideways, she does her job and gets him out of danger, but not before he's recognized. Axel is furious that she ruined his night out but can't deny his attraction to her. But she works for him, so she is off-limits.

The repercussions of Axel's night out first result in Heather being assigned to his personal detail. Her experience (five brothers!) made her adept at recognizing incipient shenanigans. Her constant presence does nothing to lessen Axel's attraction to her, and their interactions are fun. When Axel receives a death threat, Heather becomes his 24/7 bodyguard by posing as his girlfriend.

I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Axel and Heather. Axel got his playboy reputation because he never dated anyone for long. The reason was heartbreaking, and brought to mind the lives of Princes William and Harry after their mother's death. Axel protects the women by not being with anyone long enough for the paparazzi to be interested in digging into their private lives, so everything is very superficial. With Heather posing as his girlfriend, he finds himself getting to know her and liking what he sees.

Heather has some rough spots in her past that have made her the strong and independent woman she is. But she can't deny that the more time she spends with Axel, the more she likes him. She tries to convince herself that it's just attraction, but that doesn't last long.

I loved watching them together and seeing how right they were for each other. There are great scenes between them, from Axel attempting to cook for her to Heather attending family functions with him. There's a terrific part where he opens up to her about his frustration over finding his place in the world. Her understanding and support are something he isn't accustomed to. It is clear to everyone around them they are falling for each other, but Alex's fears won't let him give in to his feelings. When the danger has passed, Alex must decide whether to risk his heart or watch Heather walk away. I loved the ending.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details