What do you think?
Rate this book
The Jorda Trilogy #1
Loving The Prince
From Escape’s fresh, exhilarating science fiction romance catalogue comes a story of corporate espionage, betrayal, sex, and bodyguards. Just another day in the colonies.
Cassandra Wiltmore is the heir to the throne of Rica, but it’s unlikely she’ll be stepping up any time soon. So she spends her days managing and building the Rican Balcite Mining Company. The company has made her family wealthy beyond imagination, but that kind of power needs careful control, and Cassandra is just the Wiltmore to control it.
When a new bid for the mining license is announced, Cassandra is determined to squash it. Then the thefts and threats begin, and every step she takes seems to be wrong. Taking on a new protector seems like an indulgence Cass can’t afford, but she equally cannot afford to be caught off-guard. If only the best man for the job wasn’t also the best-looking man she’s ever seen.
Kernan Radaton has ambition, and as protector to Cassandra Wiltmore, he’s well placed to reach all his long-held goals. If only his new all-business boss didn’t make him think of only pleasure. With the company, the heir and the family under attack, the last thing anyone needs is a distraction. But once everything is safe again, Kernan is developing new ambitions — ones that involve a lot of very personal time spent getting to know his boss on a very personal level.
- GenresScience FictionRomance
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2014
1 person is currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Murphy
42 books32 followersNicole has been telling stories for as long as she can remember and been writing them down since primary school.
Her two main occupations thus far in her life – teaching and journalism – have taught her a great deal about writing. As a teacher, having to explain the nuances of story to young children helped to hone the information in her mind. As a journalist, Nicole has won awards for her writing (in particular a series of articles on mental illness) and has interviewed people such as Gary McDonald, Noeline Brown and Roy Billing. She quit journalism in 2008 to focus on her fiction writing.
Nicole has had more than a dozen short stories published, the most recent in the Scary Kisses, a paranormal romance anthology from Ticonderoga Publishing. She has worked in the speculative fiction industry as an editor and edited The Outcast for CSFG Publishing (including the Aurealis Award nominated horror short “Woman Train”) and Issue 25 of Andromeda Spaceways Inflight Magazine, both published in 2006.
Nicole is also active in fandom. She has been on the organising committee for the first five Conflux conventions, including chairing Conflux 4 in 2007 and programming Conflux 5 in 2008. She was involved with the organising committee for Aussiecon 4, the 2010 Worldcon in Melbourne (quitting when she got the deal for her urban fantasty trilogy The Dream of Asarlai) and is a long-time member of the Canberra Speculative Fiction Guild (CSFG).
She is a member of the Fantasy Writers on Retreat writing group, which includes Trudi Canavan, Russell Kirkpatrick, Matthew Farrer, Cat Sparks, Donna Hanson and Kylie Seluka.
Nicole lives in Queanbeyan with her husband Tim, a computer programmer who happens to be one of the top croquet players in Australia and has just captained NSW to victory in the interstate cup.
Her two main occupations thus far in her life – teaching and journalism – have taught her a great deal about writing. As a teacher, having to explain the nuances of story to young children helped to hone the information in her mind. As a journalist, Nicole has won awards for her writing (in particular a series of articles on mental illness) and has interviewed people such as Gary McDonald, Noeline Brown and Roy Billing. She quit journalism in 2008 to focus on her fiction writing.
Nicole has had more than a dozen short stories published, the most recent in the Scary Kisses, a paranormal romance anthology from Ticonderoga Publishing. She has worked in the speculative fiction industry as an editor and edited The Outcast for CSFG Publishing (including the Aurealis Award nominated horror short “Woman Train”) and Issue 25 of Andromeda Spaceways Inflight Magazine, both published in 2006.
Nicole is also active in fandom. She has been on the organising committee for the first five Conflux conventions, including chairing Conflux 4 in 2007 and programming Conflux 5 in 2008. She was involved with the organising committee for Aussiecon 4, the 2010 Worldcon in Melbourne (quitting when she got the deal for her urban fantasty trilogy The Dream of Asarlai) and is a long-time member of the Canberra Speculative Fiction Guild (CSFG).
She is a member of the Fantasy Writers on Retreat writing group, which includes Trudi Canavan, Russell Kirkpatrick, Matthew Farrer, Cat Sparks, Donna Hanson and Kylie Seluka.
Nicole lives in Queanbeyan with her husband Tim, a computer programmer who happens to be one of the top croquet players in Australia and has just captained NSW to victory in the interstate cup.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 22, 2014
☆I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!☆
3.5 stars!!
Loving the Prince was an exceptional read filled with mystery, suspense, love, duty, and honor.
Cassandra Wiltmore has everything a person could want: wealth, power, privilege, and the next in line to the Rican throne (the richest colony on the moon of Jorda). The only thing she lacks is: an actual life outside of work.
A self titled workaholic, Cass will do anything to protect and preserve her family’s business and integrity. And so when a series of thefts and even a new bid for the mining license jeopardize to put Rican Balcite Mining Company (RBMC) in the red, Cassandra is determined not to go down without a fight.
Now enter: Kernan Radaton:
Cassandra’s new bodyguard with quite amount of clout. Retired from the King’s guard of Angonia (a land kingdom on Jorda), Kernan has earned the reputation for being the best of the best in his profession. Only, when he locks eyes with brunette beauty Cassandra Wiltmore, the term “mixing business with pleasure” never rung so true.
Filled with an irrevocable and undeniable connection towards Cassandra, how can Kernan do his job when all he wants to do is jump his new boss? Not to mention, he was just previously dating her cousin.
And when danger, deceit, and betrayal lurks its way into the midst, can he protect Cassandra from the oncoming threat that endangers her very life? What about his personal dreams of starting anew and fulfilling the void he so desperately craves of settling down, getting married, and having a family? Will Cassandra hold this vacancy that he has deep down in his heart?
As for Cassandra. Will nixing the lines with her sex on a stick employee, put at risk everything she’s worked so hard for? What about her heir lineage? Will her relationship with Kernan potentially lose her claim for the throne? And finally, what about the future of her family business? Will it rise against malicious opposition? Or crumble beneath her? Read and you will find out!
#Over all, a decent read. It was a bit slow, or should I say “rough” initially getting into, but over all a creative and intriguing plot line.
My likes:
*Kernan and Cassandra’s ambition and determination to sort out the matters at hand rather than zoning in on their own personal feelings and afflictions.
*The slow but gradual development between the two protagonists from work partners to confidants and potentially lovers.
What I didn’t like:
I had a hard time distinguishing between the different place names and titles of individuals. Rica, Angonia, Jorda, etc.; I kind of was confused at first as to what was what but eventually I was able to separate everything apart.
As for everything else: It was all good. Just needed to speed up certain parts here and there and the rest is golden. So all and all, a riveting and sensual sci-fi romance that will captivate you from beginning to finish!
3.5 stars!!
Loving the Prince was an exceptional read filled with mystery, suspense, love, duty, and honor.
Cassandra Wiltmore has everything a person could want: wealth, power, privilege, and the next in line to the Rican throne (the richest colony on the moon of Jorda). The only thing she lacks is: an actual life outside of work.
A self titled workaholic, Cass will do anything to protect and preserve her family’s business and integrity. And so when a series of thefts and even a new bid for the mining license jeopardize to put Rican Balcite Mining Company (RBMC) in the red, Cassandra is determined not to go down without a fight.
Now enter: Kernan Radaton:
Cassandra’s new bodyguard with quite amount of clout. Retired from the King’s guard of Angonia (a land kingdom on Jorda), Kernan has earned the reputation for being the best of the best in his profession. Only, when he locks eyes with brunette beauty Cassandra Wiltmore, the term “mixing business with pleasure” never rung so true.
Filled with an irrevocable and undeniable connection towards Cassandra, how can Kernan do his job when all he wants to do is jump his new boss? Not to mention, he was just previously dating her cousin.
And when danger, deceit, and betrayal lurks its way into the midst, can he protect Cassandra from the oncoming threat that endangers her very life? What about his personal dreams of starting anew and fulfilling the void he so desperately craves of settling down, getting married, and having a family? Will Cassandra hold this vacancy that he has deep down in his heart?
As for Cassandra. Will nixing the lines with her sex on a stick employee, put at risk everything she’s worked so hard for? What about her heir lineage? Will her relationship with Kernan potentially lose her claim for the throne? And finally, what about the future of her family business? Will it rise against malicious opposition? Or crumble beneath her? Read and you will find out!
#Over all, a decent read. It was a bit slow, or should I say “rough” initially getting into, but over all a creative and intriguing plot line.
My likes:
*Kernan and Cassandra’s ambition and determination to sort out the matters at hand rather than zoning in on their own personal feelings and afflictions.
*The slow but gradual development between the two protagonists from work partners to confidants and potentially lovers.
What I didn’t like:
I had a hard time distinguishing between the different place names and titles of individuals. Rica, Angonia, Jorda, etc.; I kind of was confused at first as to what was what but eventually I was able to separate everything apart.
As for everything else: It was all good. Just needed to speed up certain parts here and there and the rest is golden. So all and all, a riveting and sensual sci-fi romance that will captivate you from beginning to finish!
September 13, 2014
Originally published at The Book Pushers
This science fiction romance (emphasis on the romance) was way more fun than I thought it would be. Which doesn’t mean that there weren’t a few things that drove me crazy!
Loving the Prince is essentially a bodyguard romance in a somewhat futuristic/science fictional setting. The science fiction mostly involves the setting and the political arrangements that fuel part of the corporate espionage plotline.
For true SF, there would need to be way more exploration of either the technology or the society. Since this one involved a TON of political hijinks, more detail about how the various governments came to be, and the way that politics in the Planetarium (the overall government structure) would be necessary. And highly desired! I think I got some sense of things, but not much. There seem to be hereditary kingdoms that answer to an overall governing body (like the UN but with real power). On the other hand, if the ruler of any individual country behaves badly enough, they can get deposed by the Planetarium in favor of their heir.
I also wish the governing body hadn’t been called “The Planetarium”. It made me double-check every time.
This is also a society that has developed both psi-powers and the ability to block them. Corporate espionage can be conducted by raiding someone’s mind. It can also be prevented by corporate officers having a bodyguard capable of thwarting mental even more than physical attacks.
And some of the skulduggery involves control of the metal that can be used to make psi-blocking rooms and equipment. The metal “balcite” is rare, its mining and distribution are heavily controlled, and it and its byproducts are incredibly useful. Demand overwhelmingly exceed supply.
That’s where the story comes in. Cassandra is both the manager of the mining company that handles balcite licensing and the heir of the kingdom that owns the company. Which makes her the “prince” of the book’s title.
Cassandra felt like she was a very empathetic heroine. She has an important and extremely demanding job to which she is devoting her life; and a large family who both take advantage of her and their ownership of the company. She has lots of buttons and her family knows just how to push them, particularly her twin sister Diana (fraternal, not identical) and her cousin Hera. While she is a very competent administrator, her female relatives are more than capable of making her feel like an inferior woman. While we want her to stand up to them (and her own internal voices) much more, it does make her more realistic.
No one knows how to get to us like family.
Cassandra also has a noted tendency to let her anger get the better of her, and to jump in with both feet where angels do (and should) fear to tread. She really does need a bodyguard.
And that’s where Kernan steps in. Her own Protector/bodyguard, Eorin, is ready to retire and take care of his family. Kernan has the skills to take over the job, and has always dreamed of working for Rican Balcite Mining Company, Cassandra’s family firm. He would be ideal for the job except for one thing, he is her cousin Hera’s boyfriend. And as much as Cassandra doesn’t want to deal with it, she finds herself incredibly attracted to the man.
Hera loses out to Cassandra through her own repeated blundering. She lies. She’s also a vicious bitch, but it will take longer for that to come out. Kernan wants honesty above all, and he can’t get that from Hera.
He is also attracted to Cassandra, but knows that their relative stations should keep them apart. It’s also bad form to get involved with one’s protectee. Kernan comes across as brave, loyal and incredibly naive when it comes to women.
Cassandra’s reluctance is even more understandable; as a manager at the mining company, and heir to the kingdom, she is a rich and powerful woman. No one has ever wanted her just for herself and not her money and/or position.
And then there’s the plot and counterplot, involving another kingdom, another mining company, and the potential for Cassandra’s world to end up in ruins. Possibly literally, as a version of balcite makes powerful explosives.
But someone is plotting to control the world’s supply of balcite, and it is Cassandra’s (and Kernan’s) job to find out who it is. Before the plot hatches, and especially before Cassandra is forced to marry an idiotic slimeball.
While the plot turned out to be an incredible amount of fun, only one of the villains’ motives was made clear at the end. Of course, the other one escaped, so there might be a sequel with more worldbuilding. I hope so, because I enjoyed the hell out of this in spite of the places where the SF felt a bit thin. It’s a fun romp.
One thing that drove me bananas were the names. It’s not just that they were a mixture of relatively common and widely outrageous examples of syllables run together, but also things like the “Planetarium”. This was a relatively straightforward corporate espionage story. Calling Cassandra the “Prince” instead of using a gender neutral term for ruler, or even a completely made-up one, grated a bit.
All in all, I had a blast reading Loving the Prince. The romance between Kernan and Cassandra had just the right amount of forbidden romance, unresolved (eventually resolved) sexual tension, and tenderness. The interrelationships among Cassandra’s family were painfully realistic. One of her enemies was an extreme idiot, but the other was a corporate rival worthy of Cassandra’s intelligence. I hope that the author writes more in this world, because the place and especially the characters she has set up so far are great fun.
I give Loving the Prince a B.
This science fiction romance (emphasis on the romance) was way more fun than I thought it would be. Which doesn’t mean that there weren’t a few things that drove me crazy!
Loving the Prince is essentially a bodyguard romance in a somewhat futuristic/science fictional setting. The science fiction mostly involves the setting and the political arrangements that fuel part of the corporate espionage plotline.
For true SF, there would need to be way more exploration of either the technology or the society. Since this one involved a TON of political hijinks, more detail about how the various governments came to be, and the way that politics in the Planetarium (the overall government structure) would be necessary. And highly desired! I think I got some sense of things, but not much. There seem to be hereditary kingdoms that answer to an overall governing body (like the UN but with real power). On the other hand, if the ruler of any individual country behaves badly enough, they can get deposed by the Planetarium in favor of their heir.
I also wish the governing body hadn’t been called “The Planetarium”. It made me double-check every time.
This is also a society that has developed both psi-powers and the ability to block them. Corporate espionage can be conducted by raiding someone’s mind. It can also be prevented by corporate officers having a bodyguard capable of thwarting mental even more than physical attacks.
And some of the skulduggery involves control of the metal that can be used to make psi-blocking rooms and equipment. The metal “balcite” is rare, its mining and distribution are heavily controlled, and it and its byproducts are incredibly useful. Demand overwhelmingly exceed supply.
That’s where the story comes in. Cassandra is both the manager of the mining company that handles balcite licensing and the heir of the kingdom that owns the company. Which makes her the “prince” of the book’s title.
Cassandra felt like she was a very empathetic heroine. She has an important and extremely demanding job to which she is devoting her life; and a large family who both take advantage of her and their ownership of the company. She has lots of buttons and her family knows just how to push them, particularly her twin sister Diana (fraternal, not identical) and her cousin Hera. While she is a very competent administrator, her female relatives are more than capable of making her feel like an inferior woman. While we want her to stand up to them (and her own internal voices) much more, it does make her more realistic.
No one knows how to get to us like family.
Cassandra also has a noted tendency to let her anger get the better of her, and to jump in with both feet where angels do (and should) fear to tread. She really does need a bodyguard.
And that’s where Kernan steps in. Her own Protector/bodyguard, Eorin, is ready to retire and take care of his family. Kernan has the skills to take over the job, and has always dreamed of working for Rican Balcite Mining Company, Cassandra’s family firm. He would be ideal for the job except for one thing, he is her cousin Hera’s boyfriend. And as much as Cassandra doesn’t want to deal with it, she finds herself incredibly attracted to the man.
Hera loses out to Cassandra through her own repeated blundering. She lies. She’s also a vicious bitch, but it will take longer for that to come out. Kernan wants honesty above all, and he can’t get that from Hera.
He is also attracted to Cassandra, but knows that their relative stations should keep them apart. It’s also bad form to get involved with one’s protectee. Kernan comes across as brave, loyal and incredibly naive when it comes to women.
Cassandra’s reluctance is even more understandable; as a manager at the mining company, and heir to the kingdom, she is a rich and powerful woman. No one has ever wanted her just for herself and not her money and/or position.
And then there’s the plot and counterplot, involving another kingdom, another mining company, and the potential for Cassandra’s world to end up in ruins. Possibly literally, as a version of balcite makes powerful explosives.
But someone is plotting to control the world’s supply of balcite, and it is Cassandra’s (and Kernan’s) job to find out who it is. Before the plot hatches, and especially before Cassandra is forced to marry an idiotic slimeball.
While the plot turned out to be an incredible amount of fun, only one of the villains’ motives was made clear at the end. Of course, the other one escaped, so there might be a sequel with more worldbuilding. I hope so, because I enjoyed the hell out of this in spite of the places where the SF felt a bit thin. It’s a fun romp.
One thing that drove me bananas were the names. It’s not just that they were a mixture of relatively common and widely outrageous examples of syllables run together, but also things like the “Planetarium”. This was a relatively straightforward corporate espionage story. Calling Cassandra the “Prince” instead of using a gender neutral term for ruler, or even a completely made-up one, grated a bit.
All in all, I had a blast reading Loving the Prince. The romance between Kernan and Cassandra had just the right amount of forbidden romance, unresolved (eventually resolved) sexual tension, and tenderness. The interrelationships among Cassandra’s family were painfully realistic. One of her enemies was an extreme idiot, but the other was a corporate rival worthy of Cassandra’s intelligence. I hope that the author writes more in this world, because the place and especially the characters she has set up so far are great fun.
I give Loving the Prince a B.
February 7, 2015
This story take place on another planet, they have psi powers, different transport but still drink wine, they just have another name for it!
Cassandra is heir to The planet, but that's not enough for her she's a strong ambitious woman and works at the families mining company all the hours she can. She has a sister Diana, she's a beauty that enjoys shopping, lunching and parties. Cassandra doesn't see her own beauty or worth until she meets Kernan.
Kernan a bodyguard/protector his decided he wants to slow down, maybe settle with a woman and have a family, so he takes chance and moves planets to the where the woman he met lives, well you can guess things don't work out with said woman, Hera is a liar and not a nice person.
Cassandra and Kernan both fight the attraction they feel to one another, especially when he becomes her protector. When they finally give in its fab. Life doesn't run smoothly though as while all this attraction and romance is happening they're dealing with espionage in Cassandra's company.
Expect to be surprised by some characthers, there's danger and angst mixed in too.
A good read, I look forward to reading book 2 about Diana.
3.75 Vampy and Racey Stars
**I received and arc for an honest review**
Cassandra is heir to The planet, but that's not enough for her she's a strong ambitious woman and works at the families mining company all the hours she can. She has a sister Diana, she's a beauty that enjoys shopping, lunching and parties. Cassandra doesn't see her own beauty or worth until she meets Kernan.
Kernan a bodyguard/protector his decided he wants to slow down, maybe settle with a woman and have a family, so he takes chance and moves planets to the where the woman he met lives, well you can guess things don't work out with said woman, Hera is a liar and not a nice person.
Cassandra and Kernan both fight the attraction they feel to one another, especially when he becomes her protector. When they finally give in its fab. Life doesn't run smoothly though as while all this attraction and romance is happening they're dealing with espionage in Cassandra's company.
Expect to be surprised by some characthers, there's danger and angst mixed in too.
A good read, I look forward to reading book 2 about Diana.
3.75 Vampy and Racey Stars
**I received and arc for an honest review**
July 16, 2014
Note: One of these sections does contain a plot spoiler, so please don't click on spoiler sections if you don't want to see the plot spoiler. However, I thought this was a charming book and I really enjoyed the heroine!
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
Cheating:
Rape:
Violence:
POV:
Sensuality level (1 being kissing only and 5 being Penthouse Letters graphic:: 2, fairly low level sexiness
Grammar errors/typo level (1 being what you'd see in any book, 5 being this read like a rough draft): 1
Would I re-read?: No, but I do look forward to reading others by her.
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
Cheating:
Rape:
Violence:
POV:
Sensuality level (1 being kissing only and 5 being Penthouse Letters graphic:: 2, fairly low level sexiness
Grammar errors/typo level (1 being what you'd see in any book, 5 being this read like a rough draft): 1
Would I re-read?: No, but I do look forward to reading others by her.
August 28, 2014
Take me to a different place particularly a different place in time and I will undoubtedly have a blast. This is true of this Sci-Fi Romance that offers a romantic suspense-style plot set on a planet system that bares resemblance to earth, but with enough differences to make it curious and fun.
This is a first book in a series about the various races of people that live on the planet or on the moon of Jorda. Their livelihoods are driven by a mined mineral that is used as a resource and defense material. It is so potent that there is a group made up of the leaders of all races that pass law and regulate its distribution and use. One company based on the moon, Rica, does the mining, processing and distributing along with maintenance of the regulatory laws amongst the distributor companies from the planet kingdoms.
Ambition, intrigue, power struggles and greed all flow beneath the surface of a relative peaceful arrangement until someone pushes even harder against Cassandra Wiltmore and her family's mining company.
Cass is heir to the Prince of Rica and head of operations for the Rica Balcite Mining Company. Her protector needs to retire and now she must have a new one. Cassandra's activities and position both as company head and heir leave her vulnerable so her protector must have the ability to protect both her mind from assault by other strong telepaths and the ability to provide physical protection as well.
Kernan Radaton is a hero for saving a king's life, but now he must leave his post with the king's royal guard due to the lasting physical injury he sustained that leaves him ineligible for military duty. He is returning home to the moon Kingdom of Rica hopefully to get a job as the RBMC head's protector. He also feels its time to settle down and start a family possibly with Hera Wiltmore.
A chance meeting at a party shows Cassandra and Kernan that they have chemistry and this is driven home further when Kernan is hired and they achieve a sympatico mental connection without any practice at all when they investigate a situation at the warehouse when some enriched Balcite goes missing. Both strive to keep things professional as they follow the clues to a huge conspiracy set to topple Cassandra and her family's company. Anything of a relationship between them seems impossible because Cass' status, a prior suitor to Cass, Kernan's feelings of not being good enough, and the machinations of another who is not afraid to lie to have Kernan to herself. But the danger from a conspiracy escalates and they may have run out of time.
This was my first time reading this author's books and it definitely won't be my last. It wasn't the most creative worldbuilding I've read in a Sci-Fi Romance, but I enjoyed it all the same. The worldbuilding was good, but the intrigue and character interactions were the book's strengths. I liked getting the interactions between rivals, business acquaintances, family, and love interests. The story had two plots going on like in a romantic suspense. Both aspects were strong and well balanced.
The pacing was that of a typical first book of a series in ways. It took some time to build a strong foundation explaining who everyone is and where things are at before jumping into the exciting part of the plot. Not that the set up was boring, but just in comparison to what came after it got moving.
The characters were most times simplistic and of a type, but they grow and have flaws to make them rather engaging too. Cass is the dedicated workaholic that doesn't see herself well and jumps quickly to conclusions about others thinking she has a good grasp of the other person. Kernan is the quintessential confident, capable, loyal, strong and passionate hero, very much what you see is what you get. The King who is friend to both Cass and Kernan along with Diana, Cass' sister, are favorite characters for me so I hope they get their stories too since one of the villains is still on the loose leaving things set up for more.
The romance between Cass and Kernan developed through the story. They are attracted, but don't do anything about it for a while. Once they do, an unexpected series of barriers are thrown in their way that look to derail things badly. Things aren't easy for them and there are some twinge moments particularly involving Kernan and Hera. There isn't a love triangle just a manipulative woman that takes advantage of Kernan's trust. Their passion is spicy, but not as explicit as some romances. I loved these two as partners in their mission and in their relationship.
In the end, I found this new Sci-Fi Romance series satisfying particularly the world of Jorda, the characters and the intrigue mixed with romance. I have no trouble recommending it to other fans of this type of romance and look forward to the next installment in the series.
My thanks to Escape Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is a first book in a series about the various races of people that live on the planet or on the moon of Jorda. Their livelihoods are driven by a mined mineral that is used as a resource and defense material. It is so potent that there is a group made up of the leaders of all races that pass law and regulate its distribution and use. One company based on the moon, Rica, does the mining, processing and distributing along with maintenance of the regulatory laws amongst the distributor companies from the planet kingdoms.
Ambition, intrigue, power struggles and greed all flow beneath the surface of a relative peaceful arrangement until someone pushes even harder against Cassandra Wiltmore and her family's mining company.
Cass is heir to the Prince of Rica and head of operations for the Rica Balcite Mining Company. Her protector needs to retire and now she must have a new one. Cassandra's activities and position both as company head and heir leave her vulnerable so her protector must have the ability to protect both her mind from assault by other strong telepaths and the ability to provide physical protection as well.
Kernan Radaton is a hero for saving a king's life, but now he must leave his post with the king's royal guard due to the lasting physical injury he sustained that leaves him ineligible for military duty. He is returning home to the moon Kingdom of Rica hopefully to get a job as the RBMC head's protector. He also feels its time to settle down and start a family possibly with Hera Wiltmore.
A chance meeting at a party shows Cassandra and Kernan that they have chemistry and this is driven home further when Kernan is hired and they achieve a sympatico mental connection without any practice at all when they investigate a situation at the warehouse when some enriched Balcite goes missing. Both strive to keep things professional as they follow the clues to a huge conspiracy set to topple Cassandra and her family's company. Anything of a relationship between them seems impossible because Cass' status, a prior suitor to Cass, Kernan's feelings of not being good enough, and the machinations of another who is not afraid to lie to have Kernan to herself. But the danger from a conspiracy escalates and they may have run out of time.
This was my first time reading this author's books and it definitely won't be my last. It wasn't the most creative worldbuilding I've read in a Sci-Fi Romance, but I enjoyed it all the same. The worldbuilding was good, but the intrigue and character interactions were the book's strengths. I liked getting the interactions between rivals, business acquaintances, family, and love interests. The story had two plots going on like in a romantic suspense. Both aspects were strong and well balanced.
The pacing was that of a typical first book of a series in ways. It took some time to build a strong foundation explaining who everyone is and where things are at before jumping into the exciting part of the plot. Not that the set up was boring, but just in comparison to what came after it got moving.
The characters were most times simplistic and of a type, but they grow and have flaws to make them rather engaging too. Cass is the dedicated workaholic that doesn't see herself well and jumps quickly to conclusions about others thinking she has a good grasp of the other person. Kernan is the quintessential confident, capable, loyal, strong and passionate hero, very much what you see is what you get. The King who is friend to both Cass and Kernan along with Diana, Cass' sister, are favorite characters for me so I hope they get their stories too since one of the villains is still on the loose leaving things set up for more.
The romance between Cass and Kernan developed through the story. They are attracted, but don't do anything about it for a while. Once they do, an unexpected series of barriers are thrown in their way that look to derail things badly. Things aren't easy for them and there are some twinge moments particularly involving Kernan and Hera. There isn't a love triangle just a manipulative woman that takes advantage of Kernan's trust. Their passion is spicy, but not as explicit as some romances. I loved these two as partners in their mission and in their relationship.
In the end, I found this new Sci-Fi Romance series satisfying particularly the world of Jorda, the characters and the intrigue mixed with romance. I have no trouble recommending it to other fans of this type of romance and look forward to the next installment in the series.
My thanks to Escape Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 28, 2020
Obvious from first page there’s a fantasy/ sci fi element; however wasn’t all that removed from reality on earth. Was a fun read, with some hot sex scenes. I’ve just finished reading the Jorda Series and defiantly recommend reading in order!
August 4, 2014
Cassandra is an ambitious business woman, as well as the heir to the throne of Rica. Despite that, she doesn't think she's anyone special, but Kernan would beg to differ. He's not interested in her title, but as soon as this protector meets his new charge, they have an instant connection - so much so that they are able to form a telepathic bond without the usual work involved. Unfortunately, they need to keep things platonic for work, not to mention the fact that Kernan is dating Cassandra’s cousin. And then there’s the planet-wide conspiracy they need to solve before anyone can even think about sexy times... well, maybe they might think about them a little bit.
Cassandra is all drive and determination. She wears a suit and the title ball-breaker like a badge of honor. She'd do anything for the company and her family - even if they drive her a little up the wall at times. Basically, she's awesome. She's the woman every woman wants to be, except that she has no personal life. ...til now.
This is no opposites attract storyline, as Kernan is basically the male version of Cassandra - if a little more self-assured about his personal life. He's almost as well-known as she is, famous as a kick ass protector and the guy every woman fantasizes about. Even though he's ambitious, more than anything he dreams about having a family. He's that alpha sweetheart combo.
I think the thing I loved most about Cassandra and Kernan's relationship is that they become such good friends. Even though there’s that definite insta-love vibe, after that their relationship develops realistically, from colleagues to friends to lovers. And even once they are lovers with all that steam and passion and desire, there is still the definite respect of a true friendship. I also loved their sense of humor together, which adds such a nice touch of laughter throughout the action and romance.
The best thing for me about Loving the Prince, though, was the world building. I can’t get enough of Jorda! - The politics, the technology, the people, the whole world. I especially love how easily it flows into the storyline. There's no world-dumping in this novel, instead the reader is eased into the world without really realizing it. Far from patronizing her readers, Nicole Murphy simply expects they'll keep up and adapt to the world she feeds them through the story, and I think that's what makes this book such an engrossing experience.
There's an action-suspense-mystery plot that carries the story forward and it's a lot of fun - all intrigue and politics, kidnappings and rescues. But even while there's all this huge planet affecting stuff happening, there's also a story about familial relations and sister bonding, so outside of the romance you get a really vivid imagining of Cassandra’s life on Jorda.
Loving the Prince is an exciting, action-filled science fiction novel as well as a sexy romance, combined to make a very addictive read. This is the first in a trilogy of Jorda stories and I can't wait for more of this world.
Cassandra is all drive and determination. She wears a suit and the title ball-breaker like a badge of honor. She'd do anything for the company and her family - even if they drive her a little up the wall at times. Basically, she's awesome. She's the woman every woman wants to be, except that she has no personal life. ...til now.
This is no opposites attract storyline, as Kernan is basically the male version of Cassandra - if a little more self-assured about his personal life. He's almost as well-known as she is, famous as a kick ass protector and the guy every woman fantasizes about. Even though he's ambitious, more than anything he dreams about having a family. He's that alpha sweetheart combo.
I think the thing I loved most about Cassandra and Kernan's relationship is that they become such good friends. Even though there’s that definite insta-love vibe, after that their relationship develops realistically, from colleagues to friends to lovers. And even once they are lovers with all that steam and passion and desire, there is still the definite respect of a true friendship. I also loved their sense of humor together, which adds such a nice touch of laughter throughout the action and romance.
The best thing for me about Loving the Prince, though, was the world building. I can’t get enough of Jorda! - The politics, the technology, the people, the whole world. I especially love how easily it flows into the storyline. There's no world-dumping in this novel, instead the reader is eased into the world without really realizing it. Far from patronizing her readers, Nicole Murphy simply expects they'll keep up and adapt to the world she feeds them through the story, and I think that's what makes this book such an engrossing experience.
There's an action-suspense-mystery plot that carries the story forward and it's a lot of fun - all intrigue and politics, kidnappings and rescues. But even while there's all this huge planet affecting stuff happening, there's also a story about familial relations and sister bonding, so outside of the romance you get a really vivid imagining of Cassandra’s life on Jorda.
Loving the Prince is an exciting, action-filled science fiction novel as well as a sexy romance, combined to make a very addictive read. This is the first in a trilogy of Jorda stories and I can't wait for more of this world.
March 13, 2016
An atypical universe which point out Star Wars to us, with colourful characters, a prohibited lovestory and a well tied up intrigue, there is all that it is necessary to do of Loving the Prince a good book. I really appreciated discovering Jorda, this strange planet with his various countries and people. The auteure knew well how to use most of the SF's codes, although I am frustrated that per moment we can too easily forget this kind for the benefit of romance.
Cassandra is a strong young woman, who had to build a shield in order to survive in a very competitive world. As well she seems to get along very well with her father, she has difficulty with her sister and her cousin who are vain and surface women (although they can astonish us for various reasons). Under all this clear appearance, we discover a woman soft, intelligent, honest and courageous. She does not like her statute but adores her job. She has a point of view stopped well on the things and we learn much from things thanks to her.
Kernan is the type of “perfect” man of the romance. He is virile, sure of himself, the best in everything he does, he even have a perfect reputation, the one of a hero. However where he astonishes us, it is with his desire to settle, have a family and a calm life. His immediate attraction for Cassandra is powerful. Their couple is besides all an obviousness, their verbal tournaments nice and the little of time that they have to be turned around is not too wimp. We can only appreciate Kernan, although he seems to miss a little depth.
The supporting characters are really numerous and we suspect quickly that we will re-examine some of them in the continuation of the series. It is the case of Diana, Cassandra's twin sister who does not resemble her at all. Behind her bitchy girl's pace with a cold heart, hide a malignant and honest woman. Hera, the venomous tongue cousin, is a true dirtiness which will make many low blows at the protagonists. Garreth, the king of a nearby kingdom, is really scheming in his way. For Grendon, I could not support him from beginning to the end, we have a lot of questions about him immediately.
The whole is well written, with an investigation full with unexpected bounces. When we don't expect it, the author known how to reveal chaotic events or machiavellian twists. It was a really pleasant reading which I can only recommend, in spite of some defects. I hope to read the continuation, especially if it go according to what I think that it will be…
Cassandra is a strong young woman, who had to build a shield in order to survive in a very competitive world. As well she seems to get along very well with her father, she has difficulty with her sister and her cousin who are vain and surface women (although they can astonish us for various reasons). Under all this clear appearance, we discover a woman soft, intelligent, honest and courageous. She does not like her statute but adores her job. She has a point of view stopped well on the things and we learn much from things thanks to her.
Kernan is the type of “perfect” man of the romance. He is virile, sure of himself, the best in everything he does, he even have a perfect reputation, the one of a hero. However where he astonishes us, it is with his desire to settle, have a family and a calm life. His immediate attraction for Cassandra is powerful. Their couple is besides all an obviousness, their verbal tournaments nice and the little of time that they have to be turned around is not too wimp. We can only appreciate Kernan, although he seems to miss a little depth.
The supporting characters are really numerous and we suspect quickly that we will re-examine some of them in the continuation of the series. It is the case of Diana, Cassandra's twin sister who does not resemble her at all. Behind her bitchy girl's pace with a cold heart, hide a malignant and honest woman. Hera, the venomous tongue cousin, is a true dirtiness which will make many low blows at the protagonists. Garreth, the king of a nearby kingdom, is really scheming in his way. For Grendon, I could not support him from beginning to the end, we have a lot of questions about him immediately.
The whole is well written, with an investigation full with unexpected bounces. When we don't expect it, the author known how to reveal chaotic events or machiavellian twists. It was a really pleasant reading which I can only recommend, in spite of some defects. I hope to read the continuation, especially if it go according to what I think that it will be…
October 7, 2014
Loving the Prince by Nicole Murphy is the first in a new series of science fiction romance books by the author. I've previously read her paranormal romance series, which began with Secret Ones. This is more different and more science fictiony than I expected.
A scientific error on the very first page did not bode well for this book. But happily it turned out to be the only egregious error and I was able to enjoy the rest of the book without getting annoyed at science. Admittedly, that was largely because most of the book dealt with logistics and corporate sabotage and not with anything technical, but that worked quite well. And the relationship between the two main characters, of course. That was also central.
I've made no secret in the past that romance isn't my favourite genre and one that I only dip into occasionally and then only if it's speculative. Loving the Prince was not too heavy on the romance — I'd say medium romance maybe — which worked for me. The story was very much driven by the plot — Cassandra trying to work out who's undermining her and get to the bottom of the conspiracy — and the romance was something that happened because the two characters were brought together. Plot driven romance is the kind I prefer.
I read through this book fairly quickly in about two sittings, which is a sign of how much it kept me entertained. The only part that almost made me put it down was (spoiler free) the bit in the middle where circumstances conspire to keep the two leads apart. But I suspect frustration was the intended reaction for that part. For those interested in the "steaminess" of Loving the Prince, I'd say it's low-ish (being medium romance, honestly I'm not sure what the standard scales are) with only one on-page sex scene.
Generally I found Loving the Prince to be an enjoyable read and I would absolutely recommend it to any speculative fiction romance fans. It kept me entertained throughout and I am interested in reading the sequel (although I'm also a bit sad it will probably star other characters).
4 / 5 stars
You can read more of my reviews on my blog.
A scientific error on the very first page did not bode well for this book. But happily it turned out to be the only egregious error and I was able to enjoy the rest of the book without getting annoyed at science. Admittedly, that was largely because most of the book dealt with logistics and corporate sabotage and not with anything technical, but that worked quite well. And the relationship between the two main characters, of course. That was also central.
I've made no secret in the past that romance isn't my favourite genre and one that I only dip into occasionally and then only if it's speculative. Loving the Prince was not too heavy on the romance — I'd say medium romance maybe — which worked for me. The story was very much driven by the plot — Cassandra trying to work out who's undermining her and get to the bottom of the conspiracy — and the romance was something that happened because the two characters were brought together. Plot driven romance is the kind I prefer.
I read through this book fairly quickly in about two sittings, which is a sign of how much it kept me entertained. The only part that almost made me put it down was (spoiler free) the bit in the middle where circumstances conspire to keep the two leads apart. But I suspect frustration was the intended reaction for that part. For those interested in the "steaminess" of Loving the Prince, I'd say it's low-ish (being medium romance, honestly I'm not sure what the standard scales are) with only one on-page sex scene.
Generally I found Loving the Prince to be an enjoyable read and I would absolutely recommend it to any speculative fiction romance fans. It kept me entertained throughout and I am interested in reading the sequel (although I'm also a bit sad it will probably star other characters).
4 / 5 stars
You can read more of my reviews on my blog.
August 29, 2014
With betrayals and corporate espionage taking up most of her time, Cassandra can’t afford to make even one wrong step but her protector is the best looking man she’s ever seen and it seems with danger surrounding her Kernan has his work cut out for him in this riveting sci-fi romance.
This steady to fast paced plot keeps readers shivering in anticipation with lots of suspense, drama and romance. The author describes the stories with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the well orchestrated suspense and drama draw the reader deeper into the story. The strong compelling characters are easily understood and grab the reader’s attention from the beginning.
The attraction between Cassie and Kernan is very strong from first meeting, but there are a few setbacks to this relationship that causes lots of drama and excitement including betrayal from family. The reader can’t help but get caught up in all the intrigue that surrounds the couple and their relationship progresses at steady pace despite all that. Cassandra’s character really stands out and takes hold of the reader, she has a lot of responsibility and like any person makes mistakes along the way which adds depth to her character and she has a vulnerable side hiding among the take charge tough executive side that she shows everyone, but really with her life… I would be insane and snapping people’s heads off left and right. It’s a good thing that Kernan has come into her life…now is they can just keep the betrayals, insane monarchs and corporate espionage in line… oh but then she is heir to the throne that could be a problem…
There were a couple of instances where the story seemed to drag, but I am not sure why, because the fascinating world is full of intriguing characters and the story is full of twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. I found the story enjoyable and entertaining and I am looking forward to reading the next book in this trilogy…maybe it’ll be Gareth’s story.
This steady to fast paced plot keeps readers shivering in anticipation with lots of suspense, drama and romance. The author describes the stories with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the well orchestrated suspense and drama draw the reader deeper into the story. The strong compelling characters are easily understood and grab the reader’s attention from the beginning.
The attraction between Cassie and Kernan is very strong from first meeting, but there are a few setbacks to this relationship that causes lots of drama and excitement including betrayal from family. The reader can’t help but get caught up in all the intrigue that surrounds the couple and their relationship progresses at steady pace despite all that. Cassandra’s character really stands out and takes hold of the reader, she has a lot of responsibility and like any person makes mistakes along the way which adds depth to her character and she has a vulnerable side hiding among the take charge tough executive side that she shows everyone, but really with her life… I would be insane and snapping people’s heads off left and right. It’s a good thing that Kernan has come into her life…now is they can just keep the betrayals, insane monarchs and corporate espionage in line… oh but then she is heir to the throne that could be a problem…
There were a couple of instances where the story seemed to drag, but I am not sure why, because the fascinating world is full of intriguing characters and the story is full of twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. I found the story enjoyable and entertaining and I am looking forward to reading the next book in this trilogy…maybe it’ll be Gareth’s story.
July 22, 2014
I love a good space si fi adventure romance. I appreciate the effort and creativity that goes into building those types of worlds.
This book was wonderful to me. I really felt the characters and the romance. The suspense and action was a great addition that added pressure and made the resolution that much more special and full of feeling.
Cassandra and Kernan had a connection and attraction from the moment they met eachother. But he was dating her cousin and she was resigned to a life with only room for duty. But when he became her new protector they forged a relationship built on trust and a mutual attraction. They didn't act on their attraction at first. Neither realized it was mutual. But Cassandra is a brave soul who put herself out there for him.
Their romance wasn't without it's obstacles however. Cassandra loses her job and position and Kernan loses his memory. But their love was built to blossom and overcome.
The world building in this book was great. My imagination really went wild picturing the planets and scenery of this world. There were several enemies to defeat and obstacles in the way of their happiness but in the end they ended up exactly where I hoped they would.
This book was wonderful to me. I really felt the characters and the romance. The suspense and action was a great addition that added pressure and made the resolution that much more special and full of feeling.
Cassandra and Kernan had a connection and attraction from the moment they met eachother. But he was dating her cousin and she was resigned to a life with only room for duty. But when he became her new protector they forged a relationship built on trust and a mutual attraction. They didn't act on their attraction at first. Neither realized it was mutual. But Cassandra is a brave soul who put herself out there for him.
Their romance wasn't without it's obstacles however. Cassandra loses her job and position and Kernan loses his memory. But their love was built to blossom and overcome.
The world building in this book was great. My imagination really went wild picturing the planets and scenery of this world. There were several enemies to defeat and obstacles in the way of their happiness but in the end they ended up exactly where I hoped they would.
did-not-finish
December 2, 2014DNF - Flimsy World Building and Boring Characters
Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I made it about 30% into this and just couldn't bring myself to continue. The world building is half assed. I still don't have a clear understanding of what sub-genre of sci fi this even fits into since it seems to be a mash up of a contemporary business setting and a period romance. None of it melds well at all. Plus the dialogue is littered with modern slang to that constantly took me out of the story. It was like someone saying "whatever" in Regency England. Just nope.
The characters were flat and boring. I couldn't be bothered to care about any of them, much less find them attractive enough to want to read about them fucking. So I'm done.
meh.
Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I made it about 30% into this and just couldn't bring myself to continue. The world building is half assed. I still don't have a clear understanding of what sub-genre of sci fi this even fits into since it seems to be a mash up of a contemporary business setting and a period romance. None of it melds well at all. Plus the dialogue is littered with modern slang to that constantly took me out of the story. It was like someone saying "whatever" in Regency England. Just nope.
The characters were flat and boring. I couldn't be bothered to care about any of them, much less find them attractive enough to want to read about them fucking. So I'm done.
meh.
April 28, 2016
Overall, despite my initial fear over a certain plot point, I enjoyed the book.
*edit: 10/5/14 for mini review*
*Won a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Loving the Prince is a science fiction romance. Normally I end up reading historical or paranormal romance novels, so I jumped at the chance to branch out.
When the book first started, I wasn't so sure. I mean how could that be good? But as the book goes on, I was relieved that things fall into place.
The story moved pretty quickly and we got to know the characters pretty well. I found the world (worlds?) they lived in to be pretty interesting. I liked the system of government between the different countries.
The characters were fun and fresh, even the ones you wanted to dislike and the ones you downright hated.
*edit: 10/5/14 for mini review*
*Won a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Loving the Prince is a science fiction romance. Normally I end up reading historical or paranormal romance novels, so I jumped at the chance to branch out.
When the book first started, I wasn't so sure. I mean how could that be good? But as the book goes on, I was relieved that things fall into place.
The story moved pretty quickly and we got to know the characters pretty well. I found the world (worlds?) they lived in to be pretty interesting. I liked the system of government between the different countries.
The characters were fun and fresh, even the ones you wanted to dislike and the ones you downright hated.
December 18, 2015
This was a fantastic book. Setting, characters, words, everything just flowed so well and left me unable to put it down. I loved Cassandra and Kernan and was on the edge of my seat for most of the book, waiting for them to get together, then gasping in horror as yet another obstacle was thrust in their path. They were such great people, destined to be together, and had to fight really hard to get their happy ever after.
I also loved the world of Jorda, such a vivid setting with so much scope for future stories. I am really glad that I get to delve back into this world with the rest of the series.
I also loved the world of Jorda, such a vivid setting with so much scope for future stories. I am really glad that I get to delve back into this world with the rest of the series.
November 4, 2014
"3.5 out of 5 stars! A woman finds a man who might be her perfect match if only threats, relatives, and obsessed "fans" don't get in their way.
This intense dynamic novel keeps readers on their toes as they follow Cassie & Kernan's search as to who could be planning to hurt her company while watching them fall in love at the same time."
Read more of this review and TWO teasers here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2014/11/made-grade-jorda-series-book-1.html
This intense dynamic novel keeps readers on their toes as they follow Cassie & Kernan's search as to who could be planning to hurt her company while watching them fall in love at the same time."
Read more of this review and TWO teasers here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2014/11/made-grade-jorda-series-book-1.html
December 28, 2015
A sci-fi romance between the heir to the throne and her bodyguard. I appreciated the fact that even though Cassandra is the Rican heir, she's also a no-nonsense business woman. In a nice reversal of gender roles, it is her bodyguard Kernan looking to settle down and start a family.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews