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Royal Caleva #1
Gabriel
Honor, passion, danger. A modern-day duke and an American computer hacker must confront all three.
Honor.
Gabriel, Duke of Bencalor, allows himself to be kidnapped to save his cousin, the Prince of Caleva. He pays a price—a mutilation that damages his brilliant career as a Flamenco guitarist—yet he would not hesitate to do it again.
Passion.
Quinn Pierson is hired to track down Gabriel’s abductors. As she follows the trail, she and the sexy duke spend more and more time together until a spark ignites between them. Quinn fights her feelings every inch of the way because she knows there can be no future between a royal duke and an American commoner with an ugly past.
Danger.
The criminal mastermind who carried out Gabriel’s abduction travels to Caleva to threaten Quinn. Yet even he is less dangerous than the mysterious figure who set the kidnapping in motion.
Opposites attract in Caleva, where the royals are hot and the criminals are twisted.
Honor.
Gabriel, Duke of Bencalor, allows himself to be kidnapped to save his cousin, the Prince of Caleva. He pays a price—a mutilation that damages his brilliant career as a Flamenco guitarist—yet he would not hesitate to do it again.
Passion.
Quinn Pierson is hired to track down Gabriel’s abductors. As she follows the trail, she and the sexy duke spend more and more time together until a spark ignites between them. Quinn fights her feelings every inch of the way because she knows there can be no future between a royal duke and an American commoner with an ugly past.
Danger.
The criminal mastermind who carried out Gabriel’s abduction travels to Caleva to threaten Quinn. Yet even he is less dangerous than the mysterious figure who set the kidnapping in motion.
Opposites attract in Caleva, where the royals are hot and the criminals are twisted.
- GenresContemporaryRomance
548 pages, Paperback
First published April 16, 2023
148 people are currently reading
2079 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Herkness
23 books896 followersNancy Herkness is the award-winning, best-selling author of contemporary romance for readers who love richly developed characters and an immersive reading experience. Meet the wealthy, powerful alpha heroes who need down-to-earth women to show them how to find soul-deep love and pulse-racing passion. Nancy’s vivid writing brings to life settings both elegant and homey, while making her flawed but fascinating characters leap off the page and into your heart. Savor the thrill of falling in love by diving into one of Nancy’s books.
Author of the Royal Caleva, Consultants, Wager of Hearts, and Whisper Horse series, as well as several other contemporary romance novels, Nancy has sold over a million books. She is also a two-time nominee for the Romance Writers of America’s RITA® award.
Nancy has received many honors for her work, including the Book Buyers Best Top Pick, the New England Readers’ Choice award, and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. She graduated from Princeton University with a degree in English literature and creative writing.
A native of West Virginia, Nancy now lives twelve miles west of the Lincoln Tunnel in suburban New Jersey with two tabby cats.
For more information about Nancy and her books, visit www.NancyHerkness.com. Sign up for her monthly newsletter—and get a free novella—at: http://www.nancyherkness.com/newsletter/
Social media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancyherkness
BookBub author: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nancy...
Amazon author: https://amazon.com/stores/author/B001...
Author of the Royal Caleva, Consultants, Wager of Hearts, and Whisper Horse series, as well as several other contemporary romance novels, Nancy has sold over a million books. She is also a two-time nominee for the Romance Writers of America’s RITA® award.
Nancy has received many honors for her work, including the Book Buyers Best Top Pick, the New England Readers’ Choice award, and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. She graduated from Princeton University with a degree in English literature and creative writing.
A native of West Virginia, Nancy now lives twelve miles west of the Lincoln Tunnel in suburban New Jersey with two tabby cats.
For more information about Nancy and her books, visit www.NancyHerkness.com. Sign up for her monthly newsletter—and get a free novella—at: http://www.nancyherkness.com/newsletter/
Social media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancyherkness
BookBub author: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nancy...
Amazon author: https://amazon.com/stores/author/B001...
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June 1, 2023I’m the author so this isn’t a review. That would be tacky, right? Instead I just want to say that I’m hugely excited about this first book in my new contemporary series called Royal Caleva. Caleva is a fictional island country off the coast of Spain. It has a monarchy because I wanted to write about a strong, honorable royal family. Of course, the royals are also very sexy. :-)
Royal Caleva: Gabriel features a royal duke, Gabriel, who put himself in harm’s way to save his cousin, the prince. What could be more noble? Not to mention that Gabriel plays the flamenco guitar. Scorching!
I hope you’ll add this book to your “Want to read” shelf.
Royal Caleva: Gabriel features a royal duke, Gabriel, who put himself in harm’s way to save his cousin, the prince. What could be more noble? Not to mention that Gabriel plays the flamenco guitar. Scorching!
I hope you’ll add this book to your “Want to read” shelf.
April 25, 2023
*** I received this ARC to read and review. These opinions are my own and given willingly.***
This was my first book by this author and I wasn't sure what to expect. I was very pleasantly surprised. The plot is tightly woven and well executed. The characters are very well developed. The mystery was intriguing with some interesting to me twists and there was a bit of romance that didn't overwhelm the story or take it over. I ended up really enjoying the entire story and look forward to the next book in this new series. Nancy Herkness has become a new favorite author. I highly recommend to those who enjoy reading romantic suspense novels.
This was my first book by this author and I wasn't sure what to expect. I was very pleasantly surprised. The plot is tightly woven and well executed. The characters are very well developed. The mystery was intriguing with some interesting to me twists and there was a bit of romance that didn't overwhelm the story or take it over. I ended up really enjoying the entire story and look forward to the next book in this new series. Nancy Herkness has become a new favorite author. I highly recommend to those who enjoy reading romantic suspense novels.
March 26, 2023
I read this manuscript in exchange for an honest review. I've read almost all of Nancy's books and
this is my favorite. I love the characters Gabriel and Quinn. They have both been through a lot and
work together to heal. There is a mystery to solve with a splash of romance which kept me intrigued and happily reading to the end. I definitely recommend this book whether you've read any of Nancy's previous books or not I think you'll enjoy it.
this is my favorite. I love the characters Gabriel and Quinn. They have both been through a lot and
work together to heal. There is a mystery to solve with a splash of romance which kept me intrigued and happily reading to the end. I definitely recommend this book whether you've read any of Nancy's previous books or not I think you'll enjoy it.
April 19, 2023
I received this book as an ARC. This is the first time I’ve done a review. I have read many of Nancy’s books and this is my favourite by far. Even though the setting and characters are fictional she makes them feel real. It’s as if you actually live in Caleva and personally know Gabriel and Quinn. I highly recommend this book and I’m reading it again!! Just want to say “Hello” to Skoda and Mobi.
March 24, 2023
This was my first read by Nancy Herkness.
This story is very different than what I usually read. But I did enjoy Gabriel’s story.
This is a long book with a lot of detail! So settle in with a cuddly throw and a favorite drink.
If you enjoy reading about a kidnapping and mystery you will enjoy this book.
I received this ARC to read and review. This is my honest opinion!
This story is very different than what I usually read. But I did enjoy Gabriel’s story.
This is a long book with a lot of detail! So settle in with a cuddly throw and a favorite drink.
If you enjoy reading about a kidnapping and mystery you will enjoy this book.
I received this ARC to read and review. This is my honest opinion!
April 25, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A down to earth royal hero with the soul of a musician features in “Royal Caleva: Gabriel: Duke of Bencalor”, by Nancy Herkness (Tabby Brothers Press), falling for a smart commoner nerd heroine in the enchanting country island of Caleva.
Gabriel is a wounded hero still recovering from a terrible and very traumatic experience.
Despite the trauma there’s a deep dignity in the open way he assumes his pain and the torture and loss.
His interaction with the heroine, for whom he falls head over heels, is all passion, tenderness and a contagious candidness, where he shows affection and love in several ways (I particularly loved the endearment vocatives and the use of the Spanish language, both intense and smooth).
The fact he acted out of love for his cousin and for his country is remarkable.
His precious music and guitars make him even more charismatic. The passion for his music is so sexy and seductive.
Quinn is a very pragmatic heroine, with fears and insecurities because of a troubled past.
I liked that Quinn had already fallen halfway in love with Gabriel before even meeting him in person, having seen his courage and sense of duty.
Gabriel and Quinn are so good together. They respect and cherish each other. In the beginning, the desire and attraction between them help Gabriel heal and divert his thoughts from the traumatic experience.
I liked the various scenes depicting the intimacy and closeness between them, emotional, spiritual and physical.
I also loved that Gabriel is so open and honest about his feelings.
I found the sex a bit sudden and the sex scenes too long.
One of my favorite parts in the story was the depiction of the royal family, with their strong relationships and problems like any other family. Combining the affection and love with duty, protocol and honor was well done. In Gabriel and Raul’s relationship we can see all this and the deep affection and camaraderie between them.
I liked the fictional country in a small island in the Atlantic Ocean, the way the author handled things as royalty, duty, protocol and how Quinn had to learn to deal with those issues.
I also liked the author’s elegant writing style.
While not being part of the royal family, I hope the mysterious Mikel will also have his own story.
A down to earth royal hero with the soul of a musician features in “Royal Caleva: Gabriel: Duke of Bencalor”, by Nancy Herkness (Tabby Brothers Press), falling for a smart commoner nerd heroine in the enchanting country island of Caleva.
Gabriel is a wounded hero still recovering from a terrible and very traumatic experience.
Despite the trauma there’s a deep dignity in the open way he assumes his pain and the torture and loss.
His interaction with the heroine, for whom he falls head over heels, is all passion, tenderness and a contagious candidness, where he shows affection and love in several ways (I particularly loved the endearment vocatives and the use of the Spanish language, both intense and smooth).
The fact he acted out of love for his cousin and for his country is remarkable.
His precious music and guitars make him even more charismatic. The passion for his music is so sexy and seductive.
Quinn is a very pragmatic heroine, with fears and insecurities because of a troubled past.
I liked that Quinn had already fallen halfway in love with Gabriel before even meeting him in person, having seen his courage and sense of duty.
Gabriel and Quinn are so good together. They respect and cherish each other. In the beginning, the desire and attraction between them help Gabriel heal and divert his thoughts from the traumatic experience.
I liked the various scenes depicting the intimacy and closeness between them, emotional, spiritual and physical.
I also loved that Gabriel is so open and honest about his feelings.
I found the sex a bit sudden and the sex scenes too long.
One of my favorite parts in the story was the depiction of the royal family, with their strong relationships and problems like any other family. Combining the affection and love with duty, protocol and honor was well done. In Gabriel and Raul’s relationship we can see all this and the deep affection and camaraderie between them.
I liked the fictional country in a small island in the Atlantic Ocean, the way the author handled things as royalty, duty, protocol and how Quinn had to learn to deal with those issues.
I also liked the author’s elegant writing style.
While not being part of the royal family, I hope the mysterious Mikel will also have his own story.
April 15, 2023
In a few (perhaps clichéd) words, Royal Caleva: Gabriel is a royally good book. I have read and loved Nancy Herkness’s stories in the past, so I was happy to see her return to writing and hopeful that this one would live up to my expectations. Which, ultimately, it did.
Charming, warm, and threaded with no small amount of romance and suspense, this is a book to settle down into with a cup of tea and no plans but to enjoy. It’s clear that Royal Caleva: Gabriel is a book meant to set the foundation for stories to come. There is detail here: in the creation of the kingdom of Caleva, the royal family and their relationships to and with one another, the security firm that protects said royal family, and so on. Basically, it’s a whole new world, and one that Herkness builds carefully and well, so while it might have taken me a handful of chapters to sink into the story, once I did, I was all in.
I threw myself into the central mystery and started compiling theories and questions—lots of them. Thankfully, with the foundation set, Herkness managed to keep the pace at a steady clip, dropping clues and discoveries in between moments both sweet and sexy as Quinn and Gabriel grew ever closer to each other—and to answers. It was exciting to see them inch forward in both investigation and love, and though I admit that, at times, I felt the maternal urge to give Quinn a talking to (believe in your worth, ladies), I wanted to see these two get the HEA they deserved. So. Very. Much.
Did they? Well, it wouldn’t be a romance if they didn’t, but that doesn’t mean it was easily won. With backstories that will tug at your heartstrings, an edge-of-your-seat ending and lingering questions I’d really like to find answers to, Herkness’s comeback has ensured I will be coming back for more of Caleva.
Charming, warm, and threaded with no small amount of romance and suspense, this is a book to settle down into with a cup of tea and no plans but to enjoy. It’s clear that Royal Caleva: Gabriel is a book meant to set the foundation for stories to come. There is detail here: in the creation of the kingdom of Caleva, the royal family and their relationships to and with one another, the security firm that protects said royal family, and so on. Basically, it’s a whole new world, and one that Herkness builds carefully and well, so while it might have taken me a handful of chapters to sink into the story, once I did, I was all in.
I threw myself into the central mystery and started compiling theories and questions—lots of them. Thankfully, with the foundation set, Herkness managed to keep the pace at a steady clip, dropping clues and discoveries in between moments both sweet and sexy as Quinn and Gabriel grew ever closer to each other—and to answers. It was exciting to see them inch forward in both investigation and love, and though I admit that, at times, I felt the maternal urge to give Quinn a talking to (believe in your worth, ladies), I wanted to see these two get the HEA they deserved. So. Very. Much.
Did they? Well, it wouldn’t be a romance if they didn’t, but that doesn’t mean it was easily won. With backstories that will tug at your heartstrings, an edge-of-your-seat ending and lingering questions I’d really like to find answers to, Herkness’s comeback has ensured I will be coming back for more of Caleva.
March 31, 2023
Herkness immediately pulls us into intrigue, the beauty of a small kingdom, the determination, strength, and cost of leading a country that wants to find its place in the world, and the life in a tight-knit family that takes its responsibilities to heart. Add in a strong, reserved heroine whose brilliance is needed to help solve the heinous crime against the crown, but who believes she is so out of her element working for royalty, and you have the workings of an epic story.
When the heroine is tasked to find the perpetrator who badly wounded a prince, and protect the crown and his family, she hides behind her computer, head down, to weave together clues to find a solution. But when she has to interact with the victim of the crime and his entire royal family, her confidence takes a back seat.
Herkness’ writing is so vivid, one can feel the sun on their shoulders, smell the scent of the country’s prized lilies, see the beautiful Mediterranean landscape of the hilly, lush land meeting the brilliant blue of the ocean, taste the flavors of the cuisine, and hear the intensity of the flamenco guitar. The reader can also feel deeply every ache and insecurity of the two leading characters as they work together, fall in lust, and then realize they are two connecting pieces of the puzzle, who belong together…forever.
This story is rich in emotion, angst, growth, a tapestry of settings, wonderful cuisine and music, and the combination of a fiery, instant attraction, and a slow build to sweet, forever love. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read the others to follow. If I could give more than 5 STARS, I would.
When the heroine is tasked to find the perpetrator who badly wounded a prince, and protect the crown and his family, she hides behind her computer, head down, to weave together clues to find a solution. But when she has to interact with the victim of the crime and his entire royal family, her confidence takes a back seat.
Herkness’ writing is so vivid, one can feel the sun on their shoulders, smell the scent of the country’s prized lilies, see the beautiful Mediterranean landscape of the hilly, lush land meeting the brilliant blue of the ocean, taste the flavors of the cuisine, and hear the intensity of the flamenco guitar. The reader can also feel deeply every ache and insecurity of the two leading characters as they work together, fall in lust, and then realize they are two connecting pieces of the puzzle, who belong together…forever.
This story is rich in emotion, angst, growth, a tapestry of settings, wonderful cuisine and music, and the combination of a fiery, instant attraction, and a slow build to sweet, forever love. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read the others to follow. If I could give more than 5 STARS, I would.
April 3, 2023
A fantastic start to a new series by Nancy Herkness! What didn't I love about this book? The island nation of Caleva has a long history of royal rule with this story focusing on the King's nephew, Don Gabriel, the Duke of Bencalor. The sense of place is very strong in this book; I love the descriptions of Caleva. From the fragrant and medically beneficial lillies to the mountains and cliffs...I want to visit and/or live in Caleva! I really enjoyed the love story between Quinn and Gabriel and how it all unfolded. She is part of the team that is investigating the kidnapping and torture of Don Gabriel and inevitably, sparks fly! But really, who could resist the suave and handsome Duke? Be he's so much more, he's loyal, sensitive, patient and a musician.... Things heat up between them, but Quinn has a checkered past and doesn't want to tarnish the Royal Family by association. Will true love prevail? Will they find the mastermind behind the kidnapping? You'll have to read it to find out!
April 3, 2023
Nancy Herkness has created a unique world of modern day life in a special monarchy. Royalty reins with heart and soul. Gabriel, a duke, has been through a harrowing experience. And Quinn is part of the team tasked with finding the culprits.
They must work together to find clues and hunt down these evil people.
During this search they find an unexpected benefit. A passion for not only justice but also each other!
This story is filled with hope, danger, betrayal and soul deep love.
It brings you on a journey of discovery and renewed faith in one's own abilities to overcome darkness.
Gabriel and Quinn are a match of perfection!
I love this story and the world it lives in!
They must work together to find clues and hunt down these evil people.
During this search they find an unexpected benefit. A passion for not only justice but also each other!
This story is filled with hope, danger, betrayal and soul deep love.
It brings you on a journey of discovery and renewed faith in one's own abilities to overcome darkness.
Gabriel and Quinn are a match of perfection!
I love this story and the world it lives in!
February 7, 2025
For a romance book, this book was long...too long in some places. Besides that, I really enjoyed the story. I love how Gabe and Quinn got together. Their development as a couple was so sweet yet so heartbreaking too. They both had to fight individual battles with their past in order for them to be able to get together. Quinn took a bit longer to come around, but when she did, it was perfect. Not only was the romance good, but also the mystery and the other characters. It all came together so perfectly. I'm definitely going to pick up the next book, even though I wish it was about Raul and not Luis.
May 9, 2023
I received a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
I have read all the book by Nancy Herkness, and she is one of my favorite authors. This book did not disappoint me and it was another good romance story, with a certain level of intrigue mixed in.
It takes places in an imaginary island off the coast of Spain, and this perhaps is the one thing that bothered me a little, why not pick a real place?
It is a long book, full of details and well researched. If you like to get lost in a romance book, this book will definitely help you with that.
I have read all the book by Nancy Herkness, and she is one of my favorite authors. This book did not disappoint me and it was another good romance story, with a certain level of intrigue mixed in.
It takes places in an imaginary island off the coast of Spain, and this perhaps is the one thing that bothered me a little, why not pick a real place?
It is a long book, full of details and well researched. If you like to get lost in a romance book, this book will definitely help you with that.
April 26, 2023
My Musings
I've been looking forward to reading this book for months, and it did not disappoint! The world building is amazing, and the characters pulled at my heart strings. The romance between Quinn and Gabriel is deeply emotional, and wanted them to find their happy ending. This is a fantastic beginning of a new series, and I can't wait to read the next book. Happy reading!
I've been looking forward to reading this book for months, and it did not disappoint! The world building is amazing, and the characters pulled at my heart strings. The romance between Quinn and Gabriel is deeply emotional, and wanted them to find their happy ending. This is a fantastic beginning of a new series, and I can't wait to read the next book. Happy reading!
February 9, 2025
An excellent story, but perhaps a little long.
October 12, 2025
I loved this story! The author created such a vivid, believable world filled with danger, romance, and royal intrigue. A fantastic start to an exciting series.
April 24, 2023
A ROYAL DILEMMA
Caleva is a fictional royal kingdom strategically located on an island off the coast of Spain. This backdrop sets the stage for an intriguing, suspensefully romantic story with all the elements necessary to captivate the reader’s interest from the first page to the last. While Caleva is fictitious, the pictorial descriptions of the country are as vivid and easily imagined as a modern-day commonwealth functioning throughout the world with royalty status and steeped in noble prominence. The essence of the story uniquely captures a blend of old-world history contrasted to modern day culture.
However, this fusion of aristocratic tradition in a contemporary world presents a troubling obstacle for Caleva’s Duke of Bencalor, Gabriel. The story unfolds with chilling details of his harrowing, near death experience after being kidnapped. He offers himself as a stand-in for his cousin, Raul, who is next in line to be king of Caleva. It’s a courageous stunt that results in Gabriel suffering an appalling tortuous experience. As vengeful retribution, his captors commit a heinous act of physical violence on him leaving him with agonizing and complex emotions that haunt him daily.
Don Gabriel is a renown flamenco guitarist and considered a virtuoso in many talented eyes. He loves music and has studied and conquered the level of what is considered a master guitarist. It’s that musical talent that has always encompassed his very being. Can he ever recover from this unspeakable event to reawaken his talented musical career? The story will grip the reader’s senses as it reveals with descriptive agony the emotional journey he suffers.
Quinn Pierson is an American computer genius, who’s assigned to the security taskforce that guards both the kingdom and the King. She works tirelessly using her remarkable skill in searching for any clue to find the kidnaping perpetrators. She and her boss, Mikel, desperately want to find justice and peace of mind for both the Royal Kingdom and Gabriel. Her boss champions her unique abilities especially since he’s directly responsible for the King’s security. He demonstrates his confidence in her capabilities for this significant assignment. She devotes her days and nights scouring through mountains of databases hoping to piece together clues of the puzzle to ultimately reveal who is responsible but more importantly the “why”. She’s one of the best at what she does and overlooks nothing.
What she doesn’t envision is actually physically meeting any of the subjects involved. She works quietly behind the scene. After all, the victim, Gabriel, is a duke and she is just a “commoner” trying desperately to solve a crime. An unexpected meeting forces Quinn to actually meet with the duke where she grapples with unexpected feelings that are both awkward and revealing. She’s reviewed countless videos of Gabriel, but in an actual face-to-face encounter? She’s a commoner as she ponders to curtsy or not. She was totally unprepared for his demeanor along with his tall dark enticing appearance and the velvet baritone of his musician’s voice. Quinn needs to do her job, while maintaining a “regal” manner to manage this very precarious situation.
The entire story succeeds in delivering a compelling plot that balances suspense, passion, emotional trauma and healing of the mind and spirit. It possesses creativity in the meshing of royal traditions with modern-day cultural norms and how to relate to both worlds. All characters, regardless of status, royalty or commoner, are vividly portraited for both strengths and flaws. Each has a unique back story to tell that is carefully entwined into the narrative. Painful emotions are sharply descriptive putting the reader into the character’s very psyche. This reader found the unique blend particularly innovative and refreshing. The story flows consistently with good balance of robust action. The plot twists are continual and peak interest while providing a few obvious clues as to the scheme of the kidnappers. Dialogue and character conversation is crisp, sharp, and, when appropriate, very passionate.
Overall, as a romantic suspense novel found all the necessary fundamentals to make this story absolutely distinguished in its class.
Was provided with an ARC edition for an honest review.
Caleva is a fictional royal kingdom strategically located on an island off the coast of Spain. This backdrop sets the stage for an intriguing, suspensefully romantic story with all the elements necessary to captivate the reader’s interest from the first page to the last. While Caleva is fictitious, the pictorial descriptions of the country are as vivid and easily imagined as a modern-day commonwealth functioning throughout the world with royalty status and steeped in noble prominence. The essence of the story uniquely captures a blend of old-world history contrasted to modern day culture.
However, this fusion of aristocratic tradition in a contemporary world presents a troubling obstacle for Caleva’s Duke of Bencalor, Gabriel. The story unfolds with chilling details of his harrowing, near death experience after being kidnapped. He offers himself as a stand-in for his cousin, Raul, who is next in line to be king of Caleva. It’s a courageous stunt that results in Gabriel suffering an appalling tortuous experience. As vengeful retribution, his captors commit a heinous act of physical violence on him leaving him with agonizing and complex emotions that haunt him daily.
Don Gabriel is a renown flamenco guitarist and considered a virtuoso in many talented eyes. He loves music and has studied and conquered the level of what is considered a master guitarist. It’s that musical talent that has always encompassed his very being. Can he ever recover from this unspeakable event to reawaken his talented musical career? The story will grip the reader’s senses as it reveals with descriptive agony the emotional journey he suffers.
Quinn Pierson is an American computer genius, who’s assigned to the security taskforce that guards both the kingdom and the King. She works tirelessly using her remarkable skill in searching for any clue to find the kidnaping perpetrators. She and her boss, Mikel, desperately want to find justice and peace of mind for both the Royal Kingdom and Gabriel. Her boss champions her unique abilities especially since he’s directly responsible for the King’s security. He demonstrates his confidence in her capabilities for this significant assignment. She devotes her days and nights scouring through mountains of databases hoping to piece together clues of the puzzle to ultimately reveal who is responsible but more importantly the “why”. She’s one of the best at what she does and overlooks nothing.
What she doesn’t envision is actually physically meeting any of the subjects involved. She works quietly behind the scene. After all, the victim, Gabriel, is a duke and she is just a “commoner” trying desperately to solve a crime. An unexpected meeting forces Quinn to actually meet with the duke where she grapples with unexpected feelings that are both awkward and revealing. She’s reviewed countless videos of Gabriel, but in an actual face-to-face encounter? She’s a commoner as she ponders to curtsy or not. She was totally unprepared for his demeanor along with his tall dark enticing appearance and the velvet baritone of his musician’s voice. Quinn needs to do her job, while maintaining a “regal” manner to manage this very precarious situation.
The entire story succeeds in delivering a compelling plot that balances suspense, passion, emotional trauma and healing of the mind and spirit. It possesses creativity in the meshing of royal traditions with modern-day cultural norms and how to relate to both worlds. All characters, regardless of status, royalty or commoner, are vividly portraited for both strengths and flaws. Each has a unique back story to tell that is carefully entwined into the narrative. Painful emotions are sharply descriptive putting the reader into the character’s very psyche. This reader found the unique blend particularly innovative and refreshing. The story flows consistently with good balance of robust action. The plot twists are continual and peak interest while providing a few obvious clues as to the scheme of the kidnappers. Dialogue and character conversation is crisp, sharp, and, when appropriate, very passionate.
Overall, as a romantic suspense novel found all the necessary fundamentals to make this story absolutely distinguished in its class.
Was provided with an ARC edition for an honest review.
May 11, 2023
4.25stars--ROYAL CALEVA GABRIEL is the first instalment in Nancy Herkness’ contemporary, adult ROYAL CALEVA erotic, romance series focusing on the royalty of fictional island country of Caleva. This is twenty-nine year old, musician/ Gabriel Medina, Duke of Bencalor, and thirty-one year old, American profiler/computer wizard Quinn Pierson’s story line.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Gabriel and Quinn) ROYAL CALEVA GABRIEL follows in the aftermath of the abduction and torture of our story line hero. A few years earlier, Duke of Bencalor Gabriel Medina was mistaken for his cousin Raul, second in line to the throne, and found himself at the mercy of an unknown enemy who thought he was the King’s son. A classically trained musician, Gabriel would discover that the injuries he sustained no longer allowed him to perform the music the way he once did. Desperate to locate the people responsible, the King called in a private investigator who contracted American born Quinn Pierson to help profile the guilty party. From the outset Gabriel and Quinn’s palpable sexual attraction is apparent to everyone but the couple involved and will quickly escalate when neither is able to hold back their growing love. A trip abroad brings another attempted assassination, and the deeper Quinn researches, the more she believes the person responsible is someone close. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Gabriel and Quinn, and the potential fall-out as Gabriel continues to be the target of a desperate mind.
Quinn Pierson’s past has been kept a secret from our story line hero. As their relationship begins to unfold, Quinn knows that once the truth is revealed, she no longer will be welcomed by the Royal family. From her father and uncle’s questionable pasts, Quinn has been dragged into more family drama and activities than she is ready to admit. Duke Gabriel Medina has only ever wanted to play the guitar; to be a professional musician but the abduction and torture left Gabriel a shell of his former self. With the help of Quinn, Gabriel slowly climbs out of the depths of despair, into a working Royal who is about to discover where his talents lie.
The relationship between Gabriel and Quinn begins as an assignment when Quinn is contracted to profile a possible killer. Several people were involved in the abduction of our story line hero, and Quinn must begin to place the puzzle pieces together in an effort to take down the person responsible. Gabriel doesn’t want a babysitter or extra security; he sacrificed himself for the family he loves but a sacrifice that came at a cost. Struggling to move on from the past, Gabriel, with the help of our story line heroine, will come to terms with what was, and what will be. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters: King Luis, and his son Prince Raul: Gabriel’s parents Duke Lorenzo and his mother Helene; CEO Odette Fontaine of the Royal Family owned Archambeau Cosmetics; Quinn’s boss Mikel; her ‘uncle’ Pete Gleeson, and her father Brendan Pierson. The requisite evil has many faces.
ROYAL CALEVA GABRIEL is a story of power and control, family and relationships, royalty and greed, relationships and love. The premise is captivating and detailed but I struggled with the inordinate amount of world building, some of which read like a red herring, and nothing ever came to fruition (Iowa?) ; the romance is seductive; the characters are dynamic and determined.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual first person perspectives (Gabriel and Quinn) ROYAL CALEVA GABRIEL follows in the aftermath of the abduction and torture of our story line hero. A few years earlier, Duke of Bencalor Gabriel Medina was mistaken for his cousin Raul, second in line to the throne, and found himself at the mercy of an unknown enemy who thought he was the King’s son. A classically trained musician, Gabriel would discover that the injuries he sustained no longer allowed him to perform the music the way he once did. Desperate to locate the people responsible, the King called in a private investigator who contracted American born Quinn Pierson to help profile the guilty party. From the outset Gabriel and Quinn’s palpable sexual attraction is apparent to everyone but the couple involved and will quickly escalate when neither is able to hold back their growing love. A trip abroad brings another attempted assassination, and the deeper Quinn researches, the more she believes the person responsible is someone close. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Gabriel and Quinn, and the potential fall-out as Gabriel continues to be the target of a desperate mind.
Quinn Pierson’s past has been kept a secret from our story line hero. As their relationship begins to unfold, Quinn knows that once the truth is revealed, she no longer will be welcomed by the Royal family. From her father and uncle’s questionable pasts, Quinn has been dragged into more family drama and activities than she is ready to admit. Duke Gabriel Medina has only ever wanted to play the guitar; to be a professional musician but the abduction and torture left Gabriel a shell of his former self. With the help of Quinn, Gabriel slowly climbs out of the depths of despair, into a working Royal who is about to discover where his talents lie.
The relationship between Gabriel and Quinn begins as an assignment when Quinn is contracted to profile a possible killer. Several people were involved in the abduction of our story line hero, and Quinn must begin to place the puzzle pieces together in an effort to take down the person responsible. Gabriel doesn’t want a babysitter or extra security; he sacrificed himself for the family he loves but a sacrifice that came at a cost. Struggling to move on from the past, Gabriel, with the help of our story line heroine, will come to terms with what was, and what will be. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters: King Luis, and his son Prince Raul: Gabriel’s parents Duke Lorenzo and his mother Helene; CEO Odette Fontaine of the Royal Family owned Archambeau Cosmetics; Quinn’s boss Mikel; her ‘uncle’ Pete Gleeson, and her father Brendan Pierson. The requisite evil has many faces.
ROYAL CALEVA GABRIEL is a story of power and control, family and relationships, royalty and greed, relationships and love. The premise is captivating and detailed but I struggled with the inordinate amount of world building, some of which read like a red herring, and nothing ever came to fruition (Iowa?) ; the romance is seductive; the characters are dynamic and determined.
www.thereadingcafe.com
May 1, 2023
4.5 stars
Royal Caleva: Gabriel was a pleasant surprise that sometimes reached 5 solid stars but also had a few 4-star moments. Overall, though, I loved it and am anxious for book 2. It was my first book by this author.
Here, we have the royalty/commoner trope, with Gabriel, Duke of Bencalor fulfilling the royal part. Our commoner is Quinn, an American IT/pattern-finding expert, hired by Mikal, the royal security expert dude, to assist in finding the villains who kidnapped Gabriel about a year prior and maimed him before releasing him for ransom. Quinn comes with her own skeletons, though we aren't initially privy to them and only get pieces of the truth as the story unfolds. The two meet as part of the investigation, but there's an obvious spark. Not surprisingly, there's the whole Gabriel knowing (but not much concerned) that she's holding stuff back, and Quinn knowing and being very concerned that she's not good enough for the hunky royal hero.
The depth of the story was a pleasant surprise; Gabriel's PTSD is evident and acknowledged. The scenes of him playing Flamenco guitar are richly drawn and wholly realistic, reminding me of my own time living in southern Spain. Quinn is a little less fleshed out; I'm not sure that the reader benefits from not knowing the full story of Quinn's past for much of the book. I also don't feel like her past is fully solved, at least not in a way that made me 100 percent satisfied. In short, I think her dad is the worst sort of asshat. I also needed more to convince me of her IT genius. We're mostly told she's good but we don't see much of that genius in action.
I found myself a little confused by stuff like what language was being spoken. More specifically, does Quinn speak Spanish? Where did the royals learn such perfectly colloquial English? As for the resolution, it was good not great, feeling a little rushed, especially after the deliberate page set earlier in the book.
But it's a really good book with characters you just have to root for. I wonder who's starring in book 2?
I received an ARC of this book for free from the author and BookSirens. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
Royal Caleva: Gabriel was a pleasant surprise that sometimes reached 5 solid stars but also had a few 4-star moments. Overall, though, I loved it and am anxious for book 2. It was my first book by this author.
Here, we have the royalty/commoner trope, with Gabriel, Duke of Bencalor fulfilling the royal part. Our commoner is Quinn, an American IT/pattern-finding expert, hired by Mikal, the royal security expert dude, to assist in finding the villains who kidnapped Gabriel about a year prior and maimed him before releasing him for ransom. Quinn comes with her own skeletons, though we aren't initially privy to them and only get pieces of the truth as the story unfolds. The two meet as part of the investigation, but there's an obvious spark. Not surprisingly, there's the whole Gabriel knowing (but not much concerned) that she's holding stuff back, and Quinn knowing and being very concerned that she's not good enough for the hunky royal hero.
The depth of the story was a pleasant surprise; Gabriel's PTSD is evident and acknowledged. The scenes of him playing Flamenco guitar are richly drawn and wholly realistic, reminding me of my own time living in southern Spain. Quinn is a little less fleshed out; I'm not sure that the reader benefits from not knowing the full story of Quinn's past for much of the book. I also don't feel like her past is fully solved, at least not in a way that made me 100 percent satisfied. In short, I think her dad is the worst sort of asshat. I also needed more to convince me of her IT genius. We're mostly told she's good but we don't see much of that genius in action.
I found myself a little confused by stuff like what language was being spoken. More specifically, does Quinn speak Spanish? Where did the royals learn such perfectly colloquial English? As for the resolution, it was good not great, feeling a little rushed, especially after the deliberate page set earlier in the book.
But it's a really good book with characters you just have to root for. I wonder who's starring in book 2?
I received an ARC of this book for free from the author and BookSirens. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
April 24, 2023
Royal Caleva: Gabriel by Nancy Herkness, book one in her Royal Caleva series, created a unique world of modern day life in a special monarchy that is filled with hope, mystery, danger, betrayal, and soul deep love; drawing me in and not letting go, until I turned the last page. This story pulls readers into the intrigue, the beauty of a small kingdom, the determination, strength, and cost of leading a country that wants to find its place in the world; and the life in a tight-knit family that takes its responsibilities to heart. Take a strong, reserved heroine, tasked to find the perpetrator who badly wounded a prince, and protect the crown and his family, she hides behind her computer, head down, to weave together clues to find the culprits. When she has to interact with the victim of the crime and his entire royal family, her confidence takes a back seat.
Ms. Herkness, through her words, allowed the reader to feel the sun on their shoulders, smell the scent of the Caleva’s prized lilies: fragrant and medically beneficial, visualize the beautiful Mediterranean landscape of the hilly, lush land meeting the brilliant blue of the ocean, taste the flavors of the cuisine, and hear the intensity of the flamenco guitar. The reader can also deeply sense every ache and insecurity of Don Gabriel and Quinn as they work together, desire each other, and eventually the sparks will fly as they realize they are two pieces of the same puzzle, fitting together perfectly, belonging together, forever. During their journey Gabriel and Quinn discover a renewed faith in one's own abilities to overcome darkness as well as an unexpected benefit; a passion for not only justice but also each other. This is a story rich in emotion, angst, growth, a quilt of settings, wonderful cuisine and music, along with the combination of a sizzling, instant attraction, and a slow build to sweet, forever love. I highly recommend Royal Caleva: Gabriel to other readers and cannot wait to read the next one in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book prior to purchase.
Ms. Herkness, through her words, allowed the reader to feel the sun on their shoulders, smell the scent of the Caleva’s prized lilies: fragrant and medically beneficial, visualize the beautiful Mediterranean landscape of the hilly, lush land meeting the brilliant blue of the ocean, taste the flavors of the cuisine, and hear the intensity of the flamenco guitar. The reader can also deeply sense every ache and insecurity of Don Gabriel and Quinn as they work together, desire each other, and eventually the sparks will fly as they realize they are two pieces of the same puzzle, fitting together perfectly, belonging together, forever. During their journey Gabriel and Quinn discover a renewed faith in one's own abilities to overcome darkness as well as an unexpected benefit; a passion for not only justice but also each other. This is a story rich in emotion, angst, growth, a quilt of settings, wonderful cuisine and music, along with the combination of a sizzling, instant attraction, and a slow build to sweet, forever love. I highly recommend Royal Caleva: Gabriel to other readers and cannot wait to read the next one in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book prior to purchase.
March 23, 2023
Ahhhhh, Gabriel. That’s it! All you need to know. Gabriel Joaquin Herrera y Lancien is a flamenco musician extraordinaire, or at least he was. Before. You’ll need to read what that means as I would not do it justice. He is also nephew to the King and third in line for the Dragon Throne of Caleva. Quinn Pierson is an American working in Caleva as a cyber forensics expert – my term but it tells a lot about who she is. She is VERY good at her job and she is the Lead working on a very important case.
I can’t tell you many details because spoilers, of course. However, the author wove a very layered and intricate story, with lots of lows and highs, that I can’t begin to describe. Talk about intrigue! This is the overall story for Gabriel but it also showcases the growing relationship he has with Quinn. I loved these two together. Gabriel adores Quinn but...it’s complicated. On both sides. Quinn has some big secrets of her own but Gabriel truly is perfect for her. Everyone also has to deal with antiquated ideas about who or what is “right” and “best”.
I loved, loved, loved Quinn’s dealings with the royal family! She’s an American fish out of water but she always leads with her heart – and her mind. I truly loved her character, too. She has such depth and courage and intelligence and bravery. If I have to give up Gabriel for anyone, Quinn is perfect for him. The book kept me reading until 2 AM because I refused to sleep until I was finished. Lots of intrigue and mayhem and kidnapping in this story. But at it’s heart, there are two lost souls who are just amazing. And reading how they find each other? Heartbreaking and heartwarming, all at the same time. Loved this book, and all the characters, even the ones we are meant to dislike. Great story, great characters, great writing. Highly recommend.
I can’t tell you many details because spoilers, of course. However, the author wove a very layered and intricate story, with lots of lows and highs, that I can’t begin to describe. Talk about intrigue! This is the overall story for Gabriel but it also showcases the growing relationship he has with Quinn. I loved these two together. Gabriel adores Quinn but...it’s complicated. On both sides. Quinn has some big secrets of her own but Gabriel truly is perfect for her. Everyone also has to deal with antiquated ideas about who or what is “right” and “best”.
I loved, loved, loved Quinn’s dealings with the royal family! She’s an American fish out of water but she always leads with her heart – and her mind. I truly loved her character, too. She has such depth and courage and intelligence and bravery. If I have to give up Gabriel for anyone, Quinn is perfect for him. The book kept me reading until 2 AM because I refused to sleep until I was finished. Lots of intrigue and mayhem and kidnapping in this story. But at it’s heart, there are two lost souls who are just amazing. And reading how they find each other? Heartbreaking and heartwarming, all at the same time. Loved this book, and all the characters, even the ones we are meant to dislike. Great story, great characters, great writing. Highly recommend.
January 3, 2024
4 1/2 stars. A compelling read with intriguing main and secondary characters and a gorgeous (but, regrettably, fictional) island kingdom in the South Atlantic off the coast of Spain.
This is the first book in a new series, and the story starts more slowly than some as Ms. Herkness introduces us to the main characters and the principal secondary characters, to the country of Caleva, and to the horrific events of a year ago, which primarily affected Gabriel, but also his cousin, Prince Raul, and his uncle, King Luis IV.
The main characters, Gabriel, Duque de Bencalor, and Quinn Pierson, have very different backgrounds, but they seem to be able to understand and to relate to each other almost from the beginning. Gabriel is a flamenco guitarist of some renown. Quinn is a computer expert who is a genius at searching for information and stringing together bits of it to connect criminals to their crimes. They have nothing in common except for their desire to catch the criminals who abducted him, held him captive, and seemingly destroyed his ability to pursue his career.
Readers will want to root for Gabriel and Quinn, both of whom are strong, honorable people. The attraction between them arises unexpectedly and against many odds—her Americanness, her criminal history, her awe in the royals’ presence. Their love grows slowly and steadily, despite Quinn’s belief that it could never happen, and Gabriel’s determination that it will because Quinn is perfect for him.
It’s a book to savor. I read it twice in quick succession. Now I am wondering who will be the hero of the next book in the series.
This is the first book in a new series, and the story starts more slowly than some as Ms. Herkness introduces us to the main characters and the principal secondary characters, to the country of Caleva, and to the horrific events of a year ago, which primarily affected Gabriel, but also his cousin, Prince Raul, and his uncle, King Luis IV.
The main characters, Gabriel, Duque de Bencalor, and Quinn Pierson, have very different backgrounds, but they seem to be able to understand and to relate to each other almost from the beginning. Gabriel is a flamenco guitarist of some renown. Quinn is a computer expert who is a genius at searching for information and stringing together bits of it to connect criminals to their crimes. They have nothing in common except for their desire to catch the criminals who abducted him, held him captive, and seemingly destroyed his ability to pursue his career.
Readers will want to root for Gabriel and Quinn, both of whom are strong, honorable people. The attraction between them arises unexpectedly and against many odds—her Americanness, her criminal history, her awe in the royals’ presence. Their love grows slowly and steadily, despite Quinn’s belief that it could never happen, and Gabriel’s determination that it will because Quinn is perfect for him.
It’s a book to savor. I read it twice in quick succession. Now I am wondering who will be the hero of the next book in the series.
April 24, 2023
Royal Caleva: Gabriel is the first book in the Royal Caleva series and I look forward to returning. This was a different read than I expected and the story did not move at a fast pace considering its length and attention to detail which sometimes bogged me down.
This is Gabriel and Quinn's story and it takes place on the island of Caleva off the coast of Spain. He's a duke and part of the royal family - his uncle is the king and his cousin who he grew up with and is like a brother is next in line. We learn of a horrific event that takes place against Gabriel when the kidnappers think they have his cousin and how that overshadows all of their lives. We get to know the characters a little at a time and there's chemistry between Gabriel and Quinn that is off the charts and is often steamy when they allow their attraction to happen. She has secrets and is an American computer hacker with a past and lots of secrets. They fit together well since she seems to always know what he's thinking especially when he has dark moods.
The story has a lot of danger and intrigue and Quinn and her boss who are searching for the kidnappers are always in the thick of things. There are vivid descriptions of the castle, Caleva, the foods and even the music that plays an important role. The relationships between the many family members were portrayed realistically and endeared them to me. There is closure with the solving of the crimes and who was behind it all was a surprise. I look forward to returning to Caleva many more times.
Ms. Herkness is an author whose books I enjoy and I jumped at the chance to receive an ARC of the first book in this new series.
This is Gabriel and Quinn's story and it takes place on the island of Caleva off the coast of Spain. He's a duke and part of the royal family - his uncle is the king and his cousin who he grew up with and is like a brother is next in line. We learn of a horrific event that takes place against Gabriel when the kidnappers think they have his cousin and how that overshadows all of their lives. We get to know the characters a little at a time and there's chemistry between Gabriel and Quinn that is off the charts and is often steamy when they allow their attraction to happen. She has secrets and is an American computer hacker with a past and lots of secrets. They fit together well since she seems to always know what he's thinking especially when he has dark moods.
The story has a lot of danger and intrigue and Quinn and her boss who are searching for the kidnappers are always in the thick of things. There are vivid descriptions of the castle, Caleva, the foods and even the music that plays an important role. The relationships between the many family members were portrayed realistically and endeared them to me. There is closure with the solving of the crimes and who was behind it all was a surprise. I look forward to returning to Caleva many more times.
Ms. Herkness is an author whose books I enjoy and I jumped at the chance to receive an ARC of the first book in this new series.
April 25, 2023
A modern duke puts everything on the line for the woman who’s tracking his kidnappers. But can he protect his heart from love? Wow, this gripping romantic suspense had my heart in my throat while reading. A duke, a commoner, and a deadly game they play with devious criminals. Everything about this book is flawless and I couldn’t put it down.
Let’s start with the descriptive narration. From the first page, the deep narration and POV gripped me. Every aspect of the story is beautifully described. I got swept into the story and the plight of Gabriel right away. Emotions and intrigue are detailed down to the most insignificant thing yet captured my attention.
The characters are so well written, I connected with them, especially Gabriel and Quinn. The POVs are deep, emotional, and addictive to read. The more I read, the more Gabriel and Quinn became a part of me.
The suspense is so well done, I got emotionally invested. The danger of what was going on overtook my heart and I worried Gabriel and Quinn wouldn’t make it out alive. To say my heart stopped near the end is an understatement.
The romance is fraught with complications but oh so delicious. Electric attraction breeds passion then love. This couple will singe your hands while reading and you won’t even notice.
I loved this book as will most romance readers. Take my advice and pick up this book today!
Disclaimer: I bought a copy on Amazon CA.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Let’s start with the descriptive narration. From the first page, the deep narration and POV gripped me. Every aspect of the story is beautifully described. I got swept into the story and the plight of Gabriel right away. Emotions and intrigue are detailed down to the most insignificant thing yet captured my attention.
The characters are so well written, I connected with them, especially Gabriel and Quinn. The POVs are deep, emotional, and addictive to read. The more I read, the more Gabriel and Quinn became a part of me.
The suspense is so well done, I got emotionally invested. The danger of what was going on overtook my heart and I worried Gabriel and Quinn wouldn’t make it out alive. To say my heart stopped near the end is an understatement.
The romance is fraught with complications but oh so delicious. Electric attraction breeds passion then love. This couple will singe your hands while reading and you won’t even notice.
I loved this book as will most romance readers. Take my advice and pick up this book today!
Disclaimer: I bought a copy on Amazon CA.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Read
May 22, 2023More than a well written mystery and a whirlwind romance, this story made me really get more than a glimpse to understanding the trauma of a kidnapping for the victim and those closely invested in his or her well-being. The happy case when the victim gets safely out of the clutches of ruthless abductors is not the same with a happy end, it does not mean the torment is over.
It must be brutal to try to survive with PTSD, and it was all the more devastating for Gabriel, who by losing his music lost his purpose, his self-confidence and ultimately himself to the point where his life became a scorched aftermath of bitter regrets and lonely despair. He did not recognize the deep pain of his family who ached for him, so he ignored their attempts to reach him and left them with their hands extended and unacknowledged to achingly crawl on by himself in a bleak existence.
Quinn is also a victim, and of her family, no less - which makes her trauma as deep, but she refuses to bow to fate and is lucky enough to receive a second chance. She does take the helping hand, and moves on to becoming the best version of herself.
If you want to read the poignant, touching and exciting tale about fate bringing them together, read this book - you will find a very talented, imaginative author. The way she can convey deep feelings is rare.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It must be brutal to try to survive with PTSD, and it was all the more devastating for Gabriel, who by losing his music lost his purpose, his self-confidence and ultimately himself to the point where his life became a scorched aftermath of bitter regrets and lonely despair. He did not recognize the deep pain of his family who ached for him, so he ignored their attempts to reach him and left them with their hands extended and unacknowledged to achingly crawl on by himself in a bleak existence.
Quinn is also a victim, and of her family, no less - which makes her trauma as deep, but she refuses to bow to fate and is lucky enough to receive a second chance. She does take the helping hand, and moves on to becoming the best version of herself.
If you want to read the poignant, touching and exciting tale about fate bringing them together, read this book - you will find a very talented, imaginative author. The way she can convey deep feelings is rare.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 22, 2023
Brand new series and world from Nancy Herkness!
I have to admit, I'm always a bit uneasy about royal romances written by American authors, as a European who lives in a monarchy... Some of the liberties taken with democracy can be a bit jarring! So I was pleasantly surprised at how well thought-out not only the environment and imaginary creation of Caleva was, but also the thorough and clear systems of government etc. created in the book.
I had no expectations going into this, so it was great to realise this is has a suspense element to it, as per the author's The Consultants series, as well as being a great romance.
It is long - there is a lot of world creation/explanations, but those are done really well as one of the main characters is new to the country so you learn naturally through her conversations and it doesn't feel forced.
Saying that it's long though, I really enjoyed all the action in the book and it felt like a natural process of the investigation conducted into the kidnapping of Gabriel.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to more from this world!
I received an advanced reader copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I have to admit, I'm always a bit uneasy about royal romances written by American authors, as a European who lives in a monarchy... Some of the liberties taken with democracy can be a bit jarring! So I was pleasantly surprised at how well thought-out not only the environment and imaginary creation of Caleva was, but also the thorough and clear systems of government etc. created in the book.
I had no expectations going into this, so it was great to realise this is has a suspense element to it, as per the author's The Consultants series, as well as being a great romance.
It is long - there is a lot of world creation/explanations, but those are done really well as one of the main characters is new to the country so you learn naturally through her conversations and it doesn't feel forced.
Saying that it's long though, I really enjoyed all the action in the book and it felt like a natural process of the investigation conducted into the kidnapping of Gabriel.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to more from this world!
I received an advanced reader copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
April 23, 2023
I received this book from the author for a honest review.
I have read all of books and been a fan for many years.
This is a very different story from her usual books. She made up a Spanish speaking country. Reading about the country makes you want to visit but only in your mind since it doesn’t exist. Sounds like a beautiful place and she goes into such detail that you will forget it it fiction.
There is a king, prince, duke etc.
The Prince and Duke are cousins but more like brothers. There is a plot to kidnap the Prince but Gabriel, the duke, says he is the Prince. So they kidnap the wrong person. He is tortured and eventually came back to the King.
The King hires a company to find the person behind the kidnapping. He hires a young woman who is an American computer expert to help him. She has a shady past with a father and uncle who do not make life easy for her.
She and the Duke work to find the person behind the kidnapping and get into a lot of situations. They become lovers and she is sure she is not good enough for the Duke.
They have some very scary things happening to them on this adventure.
Romance, Suspense and Intrigue. Plus love solves all problems.
I have read all of books and been a fan for many years.
This is a very different story from her usual books. She made up a Spanish speaking country. Reading about the country makes you want to visit but only in your mind since it doesn’t exist. Sounds like a beautiful place and she goes into such detail that you will forget it it fiction.
There is a king, prince, duke etc.
The Prince and Duke are cousins but more like brothers. There is a plot to kidnap the Prince but Gabriel, the duke, says he is the Prince. So they kidnap the wrong person. He is tortured and eventually came back to the King.
The King hires a company to find the person behind the kidnapping. He hires a young woman who is an American computer expert to help him. She has a shady past with a father and uncle who do not make life easy for her.
She and the Duke work to find the person behind the kidnapping and get into a lot of situations. They become lovers and she is sure she is not good enough for the Duke.
They have some very scary things happening to them on this adventure.
Romance, Suspense and Intrigue. Plus love solves all problems.
April 26, 2023
Lots to like about this, but a few things to quibble about.
The good stuff:-
Good plotting - mix of mystery and romance.
Good characterisation - well rounded, credible characters who engaged one’s interest. I want to know more about Raul, Luiz, Mikel.
Good sex scenes.
The quibbles:-
Not impressed with the world building. I didn’t get a vibe that this was somewhere other than Spain, even though it was supposed to be an independent island monarchy off Spain.
Found the heroine to be stupid and illogical.
Too many unanswered questions.
Why did it take the villainess 30 years to decide to get her revenge?
How come King Luiz was so resistant to the idea about the villainess.
What about Iowa?
What about Quinn’s Dad?
What was the story with Gabriel’s parents?
Overall, I thought the book was too long with too many side journeys and descriptions. There were several times when I thought, “get a move on”.
However Gabriel was simply wonderful and I loved every page that he was on! Thee stars for an enjoyable and entertaining read. I actually purchased this book rather than obtaining it as an ARC so my opinion is definitely my own. I’ll definitely look out for the next in the series.
The good stuff:-
Good plotting - mix of mystery and romance.
Good characterisation - well rounded, credible characters who engaged one’s interest. I want to know more about Raul, Luiz, Mikel.
Good sex scenes.
The quibbles:-
Not impressed with the world building. I didn’t get a vibe that this was somewhere other than Spain, even though it was supposed to be an independent island monarchy off Spain.
Found the heroine to be stupid and illogical.
Too many unanswered questions.
Why did it take the villainess 30 years to decide to get her revenge?
How come King Luiz was so resistant to the idea about the villainess.
What about Iowa?
What about Quinn’s Dad?
What was the story with Gabriel’s parents?
Overall, I thought the book was too long with too many side journeys and descriptions. There were several times when I thought, “get a move on”.
However Gabriel was simply wonderful and I loved every page that he was on! Thee stars for an enjoyable and entertaining read. I actually purchased this book rather than obtaining it as an ARC so my opinion is definitely my own. I’ll definitely look out for the next in the series.
May 4, 2023
I'll start this review by saying it's been too long since my last Nancy Herkness book. And Gabriel and Quinn made me fall in love with her writing all over again.
Gabriel has been recovering after his kidnapping. Losing his ability to play music with all his heart has left him feeling like he's never going to be the man he once was. But that all changes when he meets Quinn, who's hired to track down the people responsible for the kidnapping. She's a breath of fresh air and the more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the chemistry.
Quinn was such a badass character. She's self-sufficient, sassy and would do anything to bring the bad guys down. Her attraction to the handsome duke is impossible to ignore and soon she's falling hard. But danger is never far behind and soon they find themselves doing everything before it gets too close for them to lose each other.
From start to finish, this book was full of intrigue, mystery, chemistry and a lot of love. And I'm sure I'm not the only one wanting for the mysterious Mikel to find his HEA.
Gabriel has been recovering after his kidnapping. Losing his ability to play music with all his heart has left him feeling like he's never going to be the man he once was. But that all changes when he meets Quinn, who's hired to track down the people responsible for the kidnapping. She's a breath of fresh air and the more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the chemistry.
Quinn was such a badass character. She's self-sufficient, sassy and would do anything to bring the bad guys down. Her attraction to the handsome duke is impossible to ignore and soon she's falling hard. But danger is never far behind and soon they find themselves doing everything before it gets too close for them to lose each other.
From start to finish, this book was full of intrigue, mystery, chemistry and a lot of love. And I'm sure I'm not the only one wanting for the mysterious Mikel to find his HEA.
September 8, 2023
My first read by this author, and have to say I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
Set in an island principality in the Mediterranean it felt like being in Monaco from when I visited there.
Gabriel thwarted a kidnapping attempt on his cousin. He’s not sorry he did it. However, losing something priceless to him from the event makes it hard for him to recover. A year on the investigation to find the kidnappers brings him into contact with Quinn Pierson. Little realising she’s going to have a huge impact on his future.
Quinn Pierson is loving Caleva. Here she has the chance to move on with her life and maybe atone for the mistakes of her past. Gabriel is a surprise to her, as he is so down to earth. However, she’s making progress to close out the investigation and allow him to move forward. If she acts on her feelings, she knows it is only temporary. After all a Royal Duke isn’t going to want an American commoner for a wife.
This is a nice long read, and I loved not only how Gabriel accepts Quinn for who she is, but the whole cadre of his family did too. A very nice twist on who instigated the kidnapping too.
I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Set in an island principality in the Mediterranean it felt like being in Monaco from when I visited there.
Gabriel thwarted a kidnapping attempt on his cousin. He’s not sorry he did it. However, losing something priceless to him from the event makes it hard for him to recover. A year on the investigation to find the kidnappers brings him into contact with Quinn Pierson. Little realising she’s going to have a huge impact on his future.
Quinn Pierson is loving Caleva. Here she has the chance to move on with her life and maybe atone for the mistakes of her past. Gabriel is a surprise to her, as he is so down to earth. However, she’s making progress to close out the investigation and allow him to move forward. If she acts on her feelings, she knows it is only temporary. After all a Royal Duke isn’t going to want an American commoner for a wife.
This is a nice long read, and I loved not only how Gabriel accepts Quinn for who she is, but the whole cadre of his family did too. A very nice twist on who instigated the kidnapping too.
I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
April 23, 2023
Romantic Suspense
Musician
Computer whiz
Politics
Damaged hero and heroine
Royal Duke, commoner American romance, MF
Family, both good and bad aspects
As somebody who usually is not one for royalty trope, I loved this one.
It's about a Duke who let himself be kidnapped in place of his cousin, Heir to the Throne of caldavia ? And was taken for a good chunk of time, 2 weeks.
The FMC is Quinn, someone with a traumatic, mysterious past, that we have to wait for some time before it's revealed but for some tiny nuggets here and there, who is a tech investigative whiz.
And the books premise is essentially the investigation into finding whom the kidnappers were and finding themselves. I do wish we got to see more, or rather any, of the media opinions but that's just me and a very minor thing.
A romantic suspense with intelligence, complexity and politics, not to mention family's good parts and bad. A book that just keeps giving and keeps you hooked throughout.
I have found another great author thanks to Nethalley and Nancy Herkness has gained a new fangirl for life.
🌟🌟🌟🌟
4 great stars
Musician
Computer whiz
Politics
Damaged hero and heroine
Royal Duke, commoner American romance, MF
Family, both good and bad aspects
As somebody who usually is not one for royalty trope, I loved this one.
It's about a Duke who let himself be kidnapped in place of his cousin, Heir to the Throne of caldavia ? And was taken for a good chunk of time, 2 weeks.
The FMC is Quinn, someone with a traumatic, mysterious past, that we have to wait for some time before it's revealed but for some tiny nuggets here and there, who is a tech investigative whiz.
And the books premise is essentially the investigation into finding whom the kidnappers were and finding themselves. I do wish we got to see more, or rather any, of the media opinions but that's just me and a very minor thing.
A romantic suspense with intelligence, complexity and politics, not to mention family's good parts and bad. A book that just keeps giving and keeps you hooked throughout.
I have found another great author thanks to Nethalley and Nancy Herkness has gained a new fangirl for life.
🌟🌟🌟🌟
4 great stars
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