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Reluctant Royals #3

A Royal Deception

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Love is for fools—or so the cold, commanding Maharaja Ranvijay Singh Rathore of Mirpur has always believed.
But when his mother forces him into a marriage with the perfect royal bride, his life takes an unexpected—and explosive—turn. Instead of Princess Kavya, the woman he’s supposed to marry, he ends up marrying the wrong woman...
Shivina Kedia never meant to marry a Maharaja.
Too bad she just couldn't resist falling for the forbidden, devastatingly handsome royal bridegroom at first sight.
He was supposed to be Princess Kavya’s perfect match, but when the bride pulls a royal no-show at the wedding, Shivina is forced to take her place… temporarily. Just until the pampered princess shows up.
But when the truth comes out, it’s far too late.
Ranvijay uncovers the ‘bridal switch’, and instead of demanding an annulment, he does something shocking.
He takes Shivina home.
Not out of love—but out of vengeance. He’s determined to punish her for the deception.
Yet, every moment with his fiery new bride sparks a dangerous temptation he can't resist. The passion between them blazes hotter than he ever imagined, threatening to destroy the icy walls he’s built around his heart. He’s sworn to never love again, but the spitfire he’s married tests his every vow. He’s drawn to her fire like a moth to the flame, and the singed wings of his freedom are a price he’s willing to pay.
Shivina is living her wildest fantasy—married to the man who has haunted her dreams.
But this isn't the fairy tale she envisioned. Is she truly his wife, or just a pawn in his twisted game? With every stolen glance and every touch, their connection deepens, but so does the danger lurking in their royal world.
Will the wrong woman end up being the one to melt a heart turned to stone?
Or is this royal romance doomed to unravel in a storm of betrayal, passion, and danger?
One thing is this is no ordinary royal love story.
It’s a pulse-pounding, steamy tale of forbidden desire, deception, and a love powerful enough to bring a Maharaja to his knees.
Dive into A Royal Deception and get swept away by this steamy, angsty, action-packed royal arranged marriage romance where the stakes—and the heat—are higher than ever!
Author's
This is the third book in the Reluctant Royals series.

241 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 24, 2024

66 people are currently reading
109 people want to read

About the author

Kyra Seth

12 books28 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for shanza.
146 reviews8 followers
December 28, 2025
Everything felt a bit underdeveloped, the characters, their back stories, their feelings, the whole marriage of convenience plot. Despite there being absolutely no typos or errors, the writing just felt stiff. It did scratch my itch for a royal romance, and I did have fun reading it, despite not being able to fully connect with the characters. The third act breakup felt a bit forced, but the ending was satisfactory. I just wish the characters wren a bit more fleshed out, perhaps if this were longer.
Profile Image for Harmeen.
775 reviews12 followers
November 14, 2024
You know what, I’m totally surprised, I really liked this book. It moved at a fast pace but story moved slowly but still this one is my favourite in this series.
I dislike the same things as other things that I disliked in the previous books in this series but the MCs made up for it. Shivina was a strong character and she was loyal, witty, sharp, sarcastic person. Her relationship with her sister was great. And the way she & Ranvijay fell in love with each other was so cute. Everyone could clearly see them falling in love with each other the very first time they met. Ranvijay was nice as well. He was so cute when he waved at Shivina at the Baraat of his wedding with someone else. He didn’t let anyone,or even himself, treat Shivina badly. Sure he had ptsd from his last marriage but that can be understood you know. I forgive him for that stupid breakup he did. But I felt so sad when Shivina learnt she couldn’t get pregnant. They deserved a cute kid as a product of their love.

Surprisingly, the side characters were good in this one like Ranvijay’s mom, Isha, Diya etc. and they made the story better.

For the story & plot in general, It was okay. It wasn’t bad and it kept the book interesting although you can easily guess what’s gonna happen next.

There should’ve been an extended epilogue for all the couples in this series.
Profile Image for Maanya Rathore.
72 reviews4 followers
September 16, 2025
I loved it! No seriously, I was craving for a GOOD Royal romance for quite some time now and this one was a banger! It had everything you look for in a marriage of convenience but with a royal twist. Cold and commanding Maharaja falling head over heels for a witty commoner girl... but hey here's the surprise! He never believed in love. "Love is for the weak" His words, not mine. But destiny took the matter in its hands and delivered a magical Royal deception that'll leave you breathless.

Our MMC, Ranvijay, or should I say Maharaja Ranvijay Singh Rathore, is the cold, brooding, commanding, and righteous hero with a sizzling hot body. His personality? Absolute perfection! I loved his character. The way he was a total gentleman throughout the plot won my heart. He has that magnetic appeal to him that makes you irrevocably fall for him. His bond with his family and his friends was so beautifully portrayed. His POVs were my favorite to read.

Our FMC, Shivina, is the epitome of sweet and sassy. Her wit - OMG!!! She was so strong and loyal throughout the plot. The way she took care of her little sister, the way she stood for herself, and the way she never let the hardships break her has my entire heart. Her character was written so impressively with intricacies that made her feel like a person rather than a character. Her values, her beliefs, her morals, her positive aura made her so much relatable to me.

This one was an amazingly written, fast-paced royal romance that had not only sizzling hot romance but a well-written plot along with strong main characters. And the side characters balanced the entire storyline so beautifully. I loved Isha and Diya! There were parts that were a bit cliche, but Ranvijay's charm made up for it! I enjoyed the storyline a lot. The culture, the rich heritage, the royal setting, the spice, the humor, the family bonding, the friendship, everything was so well written.
Profile Image for Sanvi Speaks.
223 reviews2 followers
July 30, 2025
What a Duo!!!!!

I love their connection so much.

When the Bride is MIA she was sent as a stand in. But when the deception is uncovered he wants to keep this marriage and takes her "the Stand-in" with him to take revenge. But would it be possible when she is the first woman he liked after his first wife's death. Or could she be the warmth that can finally melt the cold heart and shatter the walls he has built around it.

The FMC though commoner is not simple and vulnerable. She is calm, compassionate and smart. She loves to fence and shoot, she can take stand for herself and when necessary fight and protect when it comes to her loved ones. She is the perfect example of "Queen".

He was cold and brutal, no one dares to talk back to him, until her. HE was already attracted to her and it only gotten deepen day after day, they agreed for marriage of convenience but slowly he started have feelings for her. Though he made mistakes, his sins are forgiven for his actions. He is warm and sweet inside that hard exterior and I instantly fallen for her character so no compliants.

The ending twist shows how much he loves her and how much he cares for despite his initial deal of the marriage. I loved it so much. The ending felt so befitting and justified. I am so happy how their love story was woven and threaded so beautifully. I literally finished it in one day. The writing is simple and quick-paced and every scene was needed and necessary for the story with no stretched or elaborated descriptions. It was on point and I am super impressed by that. I love all the characters (except the antagonists), their funny banter, their arguments and how they understand each other even without words from the very beginning shows how much they belong to each other. Overall its a worthy read.
Profile Image for Anwesha Chattoraj.
128 reviews1 follower
September 11, 2025
A Royal Deception by Kyra Seth is the third book of her Reluctant Royals series and my first book of her. Am totally in love with this book. Royal series books are always my fav so this one also my fav one. I love the story. It has it's own spark and uniqueness. This book narrates the passionate love story of Maharaja Ranvijay Singh Rathore and Shivina,who was once a maid but now the only Queen of Maharaja RV.

The journey wasn't simple. It's definitely interesting and full of twist. The journey from a maid of RV's former fiance to the wife of RV is really amazing and thrilling. When Shivina was just a maid of the former fiance of Maharaja but she successfully captured his heart from then. He was protective, caring towards her from the starting. He wasn't interested to marry the girl,her mother fixed. Destiny has played it's role perfectly again. At the crucial moment of wedding the girl wasn't present and Shivina had to take the place. Thus her journey of becoming Queen was started.

Love didn't bloom smoothly. They were enemies. After the marriage RV was furious for the bride changeing and wanted to revenge on Shivina but to his surprise he has fallen in love with her. Though at the early stage of their marriage they has given enemies to lovers vibe strongly. But slowly both has accepted eachother willingly and strongly. Again there was a trouble in their marriage but it was fixed.

I love the bond of Shivina and her sister, Zarna. Also the side characters are perfect. I love the personality of the mother of RV. This book is really beautiful. I will definitely recommend it
Profile Image for Monika.
61 reviews4 followers
August 24, 2025
A Royal Reception is a royal romance that beautifully blends deception, destiny, and undeniable chemistry.

At the heart of the story are Shivina and Ranvijay, the Maharaj whose presence commands every room, and the ordinary woman working in the palace of his fiancée. What begins as an unexpected twist of fate soon turns into a marriage bound not by choice but by deception.

Shivina’s accidental betrayal, marrying Ranvijay without his knowledge or consent, sets the stage for an intense and emotionally charged journey. What struck me the most was Ranvijay’s reaction when the truth came out. Instead of discarding her or letting others humiliate her, he chose to keep her bound to him. It wasn’t forgiveness, but a form of punishment that only he had the right to deliver. This fierce protectiveness, even while being wronged, made his character unforgettable.

Their relationship evolves in such a captivating way, shifting from wary strangers to reluctant companions, then enemies, and finally, lovers. The progression feels natural, yet thrilling, and the push-and-pull dynamic keeps you hooked. The royal setting adds a grandeur to the story grounding their fiery emotions in a backdrop of power, tradition, and responsibility.

The twists and turns were engaging, the chemistry between Ranvijay and Shivina was electric, and the emotional depth of their bond made the story shine.
Their marriage may have begun in deception, but it grew into a love story that felt both powerful and timeless.

The blend of royal grandeur and intimate emotions makes it a truly captivating read.
40 reviews1 follower
August 20, 2025
》TROPES:
🔥 Slow burn
👑 Royal romance
😶 Mistaken Identity
👤 possessive MC
👩‍❤️‍👨 marriage of convenience
💸 billionaire romance

"Not a chance, wife. You're stuck with me for life. Just like I promised during the saptapadi. And if there's one thing you should know about me, it is that I'm a man of my word." 💖

》You know what, I’m totally surprised. This is my first time reading Kyra Seth's work and I really liked this book!! Maharaja Ranvijay Singh Rathore ends up marrying someone completely unexpected — someone no one could have imagined.

What I always love is a strong female lead and Shivina is exactly that. She loves fencing and shooting, and she can take stand for herself which is like chef's kiss for me. She is the perfect example of a "Queen".👸❤️

Ranvijay, on the other hand, is cold and brutal — no one dares to talk back to him… until HER.🤌🏻 I am a die hard fan of when he is cold to others but for her, he is whole new person. 🙇‍♂️

Their love story is so beautiful and can I say, heart catching.💖 I love how they fall for each other. The balance of romantic tension, humor and intense emotion are really admirable. The suspense & drama were worth every page.

I really love Ranvijay's mom and Isha, their characters are absolutely 5/5.🌷 The book is fast-paced, and the writing style is simple, and engaging but I WANT A LONGER STORY! Author, please, I need more about their journey!!!😭
Profile Image for Snigdha Nanda.
52 reviews2 followers
August 4, 2025
What starts out as a royal wedding soon turns into something no one could have imagined. Maharaja Ranvijay Singh Rathore is known for his strength, his silence, and a heart that has long ago given up on love. Duty is everything to him and emotions have no place in his world. But on the day of his royal wedding, everything changes. A girl who was never meant to be a queen is being pushed into the spotlight🫣.Thrown into a world of secrets, she becomes part of a dangerous game that no one could have imagined.

The book is fast-paced, and the writing style is simple, clear, and engaging. There wasn’t a single dull moment. I loved how the author balanced intense emotions, romantic tension, and moments of humor so well. The ending was very satisfying and wrapped up the emotional journey beautifully. It left me with a smile and a full heart💗✨. However, at times, the story feels a bit predictable, especially if you’ve read other marriage of convenience romances. Some parts followed a familiar pattern, and I wished there were a few more surprises.

Overall, "A Royal Deception" is a beautiful and passionate love story, full of drama, royal secrets, and slow burn chemistry❤️‍🔥✨. If you like stories where a cold, cautious protagonist learns to love again, and where fate changes everything in a single moment, then this book is definitely for you♥️.
Profile Image for Sachin Karnik.
Author 2 books7 followers
July 31, 2025
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Genre: Royal Romance, Romantic Suspense
Series: Reluctant Royals #3

👑 A royal mistake… or destiny in disguise?

Just finished *A Royal Deception* by Kyra Seth and I’m still reeling from the drama, passion, and palace intrigue! 🔥

🔥 What Worked:
Explosive Premise: A mistaken identity leads to a royal marriage of convenience—Shivina Kedia steps in for a runaway bride and ends up married to the brooding Maharaja Ranvijay Singh Rathore.

Emotional Depth: The tension between vengeance and vulnerability is beautifully handled. Ranvijay’s icy demeanor slowly melts under Shivina’s fiery spirit.

Cultural Richness: The Indian royal setting adds opulence and authenticity, making the drama feel grand yet grounded.

Spicy Romance: The chemistry is electric, with steamy scenes balanced by emotional growth.

🤔 What Could Be Better:
Some readers may find the pacing uneven in the middle chapters.

The “bridal switch” trope might feel dramatic, but it’s executed with flair.

💬 Favorite Quote:
“He’s drawn to her fire like a moth to the flame, and the singed wings of his freedom are a price he’s willing to pay.”
85 reviews1 follower
September 12, 2025
This book is a witty, sparkling romance that had me hooked from the first page. The author brings together humor, heart, and just the right amount of drama to create a story that is both entertaining and emotionally satisfying.

The characters feel alive and relatable, especially the lead pair. Their banter is sharp, funny, and full of chemistry, which makes their journey of love all the more engaging. I also appreciated how the supporting cast added depth without ever taking away from the main story.

What stood out for me most was the way the author balanced humor with tender moments. It’s not just a light rom-com; there’s a deeper layer about trust, vulnerability, and finding the courage to take chances on love.

If you enjoy romances that are fun, heartfelt, and leave you smiling at the end, this book is worth picking up
Profile Image for Gnana Prakashini.A.
47 reviews
September 21, 2025

Maharaja Ranvijay Singh Rathore never wanted love after what happened but there came a crash of attraction after meeting Shivina Kedia, absolute spitfire of a woman who loves her Lil sis Zarna. She was the servant of the decided bride, yup...The Spitfire wasn't the right bride....But make no mistake,She is his Rani sa. A Woman who is so strong for her only family, who loves Guns and Swords like the true warrior she is... But the deception angered our hotheaded stubborn, Ranvijay Singh Rathore, who felt the spark the instant he saw her. Shivina also felt it...But he was her Hukum, But, He’s drawn to her fire like a moth to the flame. Anger clouding his decision, he made a deal...............
To know more Buy the book and read.... Don't be too much greedy..... No spoilers allowed!!
203 reviews1 follower
September 25, 2025
A Royal Deception is a fantastic work of creativity where the royal Rajput lifestyle in a modern setting has been brought alive vibrantly by the author in the form of a swoon worthy romance tale and filled with the dramatic elements of regal politics, great friendship bonds and high drama rivalry among royal families and sizzling chemistry.

Ranvijay's marriage of convenience with a palace maid Shivina after the princess Kavya mysteriously went missing on the day of their glamorous royal wedding is amazing to read.

The power of royal women which includes Shivina and her friend circle on conquering their rivals Ayush Goel and his men is greatly thrilling.
Profile Image for Sakshi.
65 reviews2 followers
July 30, 2025
The writing was so beautiful 🤩 it pulled you in the lives of the characters. I seriously loved loved loved how strong Shivina is !!!! The way she stood up for her sister and went against everything and everyone to protect her was something so beautiful that I can’t seem to get it into words. Can we talk about Isha and Diya ???? God !! They are the best especially Isha. I knew I would love her as soon as she was introduced 🙈🙈

Characters : 4/5
Story : 3/5
Writing 4.5/5
Side characters : 5/5
36 reviews
September 14, 2025
I absolutely loved A Royal Deception! ☺️
A cold-hearted Maharaja a fiery wrong bride
one of the most addictive, angsty royal romances l've read. The bridal switch kept me hooked, and the sizzling chemistry between Ranvijay & Shivina had me swooning
✨ "Will the wrong woman end up being the one to melt a heart turned to stone?"✨
Steamy, dramatic, and full of betrayal, passion, and royal intrigue y this story had it all.
Definitely a must-read if you love arranged marriage + enemies-to-lovers vibes!💖
168 reviews
September 23, 2025
A Royal Deception is a royal romance that blends deception, destiny, and undeniable chemistry. This book hooked me from the start.

The story centers around Shivina and Ranvijay. Ranvijay is the maharaja, and Shivina is a maid in the palace of his fiancée. From being a maid to becoming the queen of RV, her journey is not simple—it’s full of twists and turns. She is the girl who loved guns.

This is an easy read that you can finish in one go. I love how Ranvijay protects Zarna.

If you love royal romance, you can give it a try.
8 reviews
November 16, 2024
Favourite in the series, maybe because I didn't expect much after reading the first two. The character of Ranvijay and shivina was much better than their friend's story. Isha and diya's relationship with shivina and RV was cute. Loved those scenes. Definitely the book lacked in some parts but overall very entertaining.
Profile Image for Piu Sarkar.
171 reviews2 followers
September 11, 2025
This book was everything and more.
This was my first time reading a desi romance and holy hell. Kyra nailed it.
It was fast paced slow burn (if that makes sense).
The main characters— Ranvijay and Shivina were written beautifully. I am just so obsessed with them 😭😭
The friendships, emotions were portyayed beautifully. Definitely my most favourite one in the series.
Profile Image for Kashish.
217 reviews48 followers
November 11, 2024
"Not a chance, wife. You're stuck with me for life. Just like I promised during the saptapadi. And if there's one thing you should know about me, it is that I'm a man of my word,"

A ROYAL DECEPTION BY KYRA SETH

Rating: 4
Spice: 2

TROPES:
royalty
bride exchange
possessive MC
marriage of convenience
billionaire romance

I enjoyed this book so much. I read it in a single sitting and regretted it cause it was over too soon. I wanted more.

Shivina & Ranvijay are perfect. I loved them so much. The bride exchange, honestly was soo hilarious and I loved how pissed off Ranvijay was but so glad he took Shivina away from the horrible family she was working for.

Ranvijay you amazing man. He was so possessive of Shivina at times. It annoyed me a little bit but I secretly loved it too. The way he was so in love with her already was so cute but because of his previous experience, it took him too long to admit it. But it was all worth it in the end. Shivina is a strong and beautiful character. I'm so happy she found her happiness.

At times I did feel that it was a bit of insta love from both sides but the author just portrays their relationship so nicely. I just wanted more scenes of them specifically so I could connect with their relationship more.

I love how fast-paced and ridiculous this series was at some points but I absolutely enjoyed reading it. I was a bit sad saying bye to these characters but I'm looking forward to seeing what the author comes up with next.
Profile Image for Meenal.
1,031 reviews27 followers
November 15, 2024
I am in love with this series and can't wait to read more by the author.
Profile Image for Angela Peixoto.
894 reviews22 followers
December 17, 2024
A book by the author never fails to grip my attention from the first to the last word of the book.
Profile Image for Maham.
126 reviews
March 16, 2025
3.5 🌟
3 hours is what it took me to read this.
Profile Image for A•S•R.
190 reviews1 follower
October 29, 2024
Trope : Indian Royals & Marriage in Disguise & Cute Romance & Tiny Pieces of Action (Royalty X Commoner).

Really loved this one !! Hands down the best heartwarming Royal Romance Book to read from the series. The Chemistry , Plotline , Action , Fun , Drama & Spice 1000/100!!!!
Profile Image for May.
90 reviews16 followers
September 12, 2025
A Royal Deception by Kyra Seth was my first dive into the Reluctant Royals series and now I want to go back and read the first two books ASAP.

This one follows Maharaja Ranvijay, who agrees to marry a princess but ends up wed to Shivina, the estate manager’s daughter, after a last minute bride swap. Furious at the deception, he takes her home out of revenge… but her strength, wit & quiet grace start melting his guarded heart.

Shivina is strong but kind & the way she and Ranvijay argued, teased & slowly grew closer kept me hooked till the end. The story has the perfect mix of royal drama, emotional moments & laugh out loud twists. Even without reading the earlier books, I loved the friend group dynamics and side characters and now I’m dying to know their stories too.

A fast paced, addictive read that I devoured in one sitting.
Profile Image for Luv2read.
309 reviews5 followers
July 28, 2025
I enjoyed this book in every way. Whether it’s revenge from Ayush Goel, the bond of friendship between a husband and wife, or their transformation from husband and wife to strangers, friends, friends with benefits, and ultimately lovers. Everything was a spectacle of fireworks. The author wove the narrative with such finesse, skilfully navigating each twist and turn, keeping readers eagerly anticipating what would unfold next.

The author was meticulous with each scene, and the highlight is that she maintained Shivina’s fear of unexpectedly becoming a princess right through to the conclusion. I appreciated Shivina’s simplicity.

I have immensely enjoyed the author’s writing. Full of fun. Ranvijay’s address to Isha was quite striking. Oh! That always brought a smile to my face.
Profile Image for Hirnakshi Panwar .
248 reviews
September 11, 2025
The perfect book if you want a quick and fun read! Both the characters were witty as hell which I absolutely loved! The plot was quite fast paced which some people can like or dislike whatever suites them but I loved the story!
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