What do you think?
Rate this book
Defying the Crown
When damaged hearts collide, can love overcome secrets?
Daniel isn't looking for love. After a devastating betrayal left him wary of relationships, he's focused on healing and rebuilding his life in New York City. But fate has other plans when a charming Danish stranger named Harald slides into his DMs.
Harald carries the weight of a crown he's not sure he can bear. As Denmark's heir apparent, he's trapped between duty and desire, forced to hide his true self behind palace walls. When he connects with Daniel online, he sees a chance at real happiness—if only he can keep his royal identity secret.
As their whirlwind romance spans from Manhattan's bustling streets to Copenhagen's historic charm, their connection deepens into something neither expected. But with Harald's throne-sized secret threatening to tear them apart, and Daniel's trust hanging by a thread, can their love survive the truth?
A steamy, contemporary gay romance about finding the courage to love yourself, trust again, and fight for what matters—crown or no crown.
Daniel isn't looking for love. After a devastating betrayal left him wary of relationships, he's focused on healing and rebuilding his life in New York City. But fate has other plans when a charming Danish stranger named Harald slides into his DMs.
Harald carries the weight of a crown he's not sure he can bear. As Denmark's heir apparent, he's trapped between duty and desire, forced to hide his true self behind palace walls. When he connects with Daniel online, he sees a chance at real happiness—if only he can keep his royal identity secret.
As their whirlwind romance spans from Manhattan's bustling streets to Copenhagen's historic charm, their connection deepens into something neither expected. But with Harald's throne-sized secret threatening to tear them apart, and Daniel's trust hanging by a thread, can their love survive the truth?
A steamy, contemporary gay romance about finding the courage to love yourself, trust again, and fight for what matters—crown or no crown.
- GenresM M RomanceLGBT
266 pages, Paperback
Published March 9, 2025
11 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 11, 2025
4 Stars
A few things to note about me as a reader:
1. I’m a lover of a good prince x pauper romance dynamic, especially when LGBTQ+ characters are involved.
2. I have mad respect for books that tackle serious mental health struggles in honest, informed, and relatable ways.
3. I am an absolute WHORE for epistolary romances (or any romance where characters fall first through words alone, sharing deep emotional connections before ever laying eyes on one another).
4. Hurt/comfort themes are my personal romance book-crack.
5. I read this particular (266 page) story in under 24 hours—which is super fast for me, Slowy McSlowReader.
All that is to say: I was in reader heaven when it came to the themes and tropes explored in Defying the Crown.
This is only my second read by (newish) M/M author C.G. Macington, but already I’ve found their brand of storytelling to be very enjoyable and easy to devour.
If you’re after a mid-angst read, with lovely, well-formed characters, solid pacing, strong emotional resonance and a damn swoony “against the odds” romance, then this might just be the story for you, too.
***A special thanks to the author and publishers (via Book Sirens) for providing an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A few things to note about me as a reader:
1. I’m a lover of a good prince x pauper romance dynamic, especially when LGBTQ+ characters are involved.
2. I have mad respect for books that tackle serious mental health struggles in honest, informed, and relatable ways.
3. I am an absolute WHORE for epistolary romances (or any romance where characters fall first through words alone, sharing deep emotional connections before ever laying eyes on one another).
4. Hurt/comfort themes are my personal romance book-crack.
5. I read this particular (266 page) story in under 24 hours—which is super fast for me, Slowy McSlowReader.
All that is to say: I was in reader heaven when it came to the themes and tropes explored in Defying the Crown.
This is only my second read by (newish) M/M author C.G. Macington, but already I’ve found their brand of storytelling to be very enjoyable and easy to devour.
If you’re after a mid-angst read, with lovely, well-formed characters, solid pacing, strong emotional resonance and a damn swoony “against the odds” romance, then this might just be the story for you, too.
***A special thanks to the author and publishers (via Book Sirens) for providing an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 1, 2025
First questions first. Which of the two had lube at the ready in the hospital? The dying one or the other, who was ALSO dying but at a slower rate?
These two are some horny ass MFs(but prepared). I'm not sure which of them was a boy scout.
I've wanted to read a book where the royal MC is an actual crown prince and not a spare because everyone seems to dodge that. This author didn't so yay for me.
BUT. The first 30% or so of this kinda bored me. I mean, it was necessary, I guess, to know both MCs as individuals before we got to know them as a duo(because those two got symbiotic AF in the truest sense of the term).
Anyway. At first they both spoke a bit like therapists. Too self-aware. They both had issues, sure. Issues for dayssss. But I was worried they wouldn't be able to truly bring the drama when I needed it.
I shouldn't have worried.
Of course what you'd expect to happen with a royal affair situation happens. They get outed. Very publicly.
But the reactions had me rolling my eyes.
Because let me tell you if the man I was in love with turned out to be a literal prince? LOL. Let's just say my reaction would have him reassessing a (very valid) suspicion that I could be a gold digger.
That said, I love this business of one MC deciding that if he can't have the other after exhausting all possible avenues to get him back, he'll simply......die.
Real lovers are so back.
If you don't waste away when you can't have him, what's even the point?
Man said I have energy for one thing, and if I can't have him, anything else is merely a waste of time holding on to a life I'd rather not live.
I fuck with that. That MC is alright in my book.
I received an advance review copy for free via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
These two are some horny ass MFs(but prepared). I'm not sure which of them was a boy scout.
I've wanted to read a book where the royal MC is an actual crown prince and not a spare because everyone seems to dodge that. This author didn't so yay for me.
BUT. The first 30% or so of this kinda bored me. I mean, it was necessary, I guess, to know both MCs as individuals before we got to know them as a duo(because those two got symbiotic AF in the truest sense of the term).
Anyway. At first they both spoke a bit like therapists. Too self-aware. They both had issues, sure. Issues for dayssss. But I was worried they wouldn't be able to truly bring the drama when I needed it.
I shouldn't have worried.
Of course what you'd expect to happen with a royal affair situation happens. They get outed. Very publicly.
But the reactions had me rolling my eyes.
Because let me tell you if the man I was in love with turned out to be a literal prince? LOL. Let's just say my reaction would have him reassessing a (very valid) suspicion that I could be a gold digger.
That said, I love this business of one MC deciding that if he can't have the other after exhausting all possible avenues to get him back, he'll simply......die.
Real lovers are so back.
If you don't waste away when you can't have him, what's even the point?
Man said I have energy for one thing, and if I can't have him, anything else is merely a waste of time holding on to a life I'd rather not live.
I fuck with that. That MC is alright in my book.
I received an advance review copy for free via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 29, 2025
I was unsure about this read, but it was great!
It's goes beyond a Prince and Commoner storyline! The author didn't an amazing job touching on sensitive topics!
I just want more of these two!
It's goes beyond a Prince and Commoner storyline! The author didn't an amazing job touching on sensitive topics!
I just want more of these two!
June 13, 2025
I marked this midway because it was a Marmite book for me.
I liked the mental health rep and the cute way that Daniel and Harald bonded before they met in person. Their relationship moved fast, but sometimes they just do, so that didn’t bother me; it was endearing to listen to them fall in love despite what they both had going on in their lives. The trip to NY was cute, and facing up to Alex was enjoyable.
I wasn’t really a fan of the many POVs. I find two is more than enough, especially when the details being given weren’t that in-depth or added nothing. For example, I’m not sure Erik’s feelings added anything? For the most part, it’s not a very happy story, and I also thought the ending was a little contrived.
It’s definitely a Hallmark-type fairytale in the sense that the good guys win in the end and they get their happy ending. For the most part, it was enjoyable.
——————————————
I received an ARC of this from Book Sirens, and this is my honest review.
I liked the mental health rep and the cute way that Daniel and Harald bonded before they met in person. Their relationship moved fast, but sometimes they just do, so that didn’t bother me; it was endearing to listen to them fall in love despite what they both had going on in their lives. The trip to NY was cute, and facing up to Alex was enjoyable.
I wasn’t really a fan of the many POVs. I find two is more than enough, especially when the details being given weren’t that in-depth or added nothing. For example, I’m not sure Erik’s feelings added anything? For the most part, it’s not a very happy story, and I also thought the ending was a little contrived.
It’s definitely a Hallmark-type fairytale in the sense that the good guys win in the end and they get their happy ending. For the most part, it was enjoyable.
——————————————
I received an ARC of this from Book Sirens, and this is my honest review.
April 27, 2025
Defying the Crown is a captivating blend of heartfelt mental health representation and a slow-burn, dreamy romance that somehow makes the impossible feel entirely real.
The story kicks off when Daniel meets Harald in an online forum. Their connection is instant, deep, and surprisingly lirty. What Daniel doesn’t know, however, is that Harald is hiding a pretty big secret—he’s actually a prince. While the truth stays buried for most of the book, when it finally surfaces, the story takes a dramatic turn that completely caught me off guard both the best and worst way.
What I appreciated most was the honest and vivid depiction of mental health—both Daniel and Harald struggle with their own emotional battles, but the way they communicate, open up, and allow themselves to be seen felt incredibly raw and real. There's vulnerability, disillusionment, and healing, all wrapped in beautifully written dialogue and genuine moments.
The romance is slow-burn perfection: thoughtful, passionate, and filled with open communication—though Harald’s big omission does complicate things. Still, every twist, secret, and revelation only deepened my connection to the story. The pacing is tight, the writing flows effortlessly, and I truly adored every moment.
Highly recommend this one—it’s moving, romantic, and full of heart.
The story kicks off when Daniel meets Harald in an online forum. Their connection is instant, deep, and surprisingly lirty. What Daniel doesn’t know, however, is that Harald is hiding a pretty big secret—he’s actually a prince. While the truth stays buried for most of the book, when it finally surfaces, the story takes a dramatic turn that completely caught me off guard both the best and worst way.
What I appreciated most was the honest and vivid depiction of mental health—both Daniel and Harald struggle with their own emotional battles, but the way they communicate, open up, and allow themselves to be seen felt incredibly raw and real. There's vulnerability, disillusionment, and healing, all wrapped in beautifully written dialogue and genuine moments.
The romance is slow-burn perfection: thoughtful, passionate, and filled with open communication—though Harald’s big omission does complicate things. Still, every twist, secret, and revelation only deepened my connection to the story. The pacing is tight, the writing flows effortlessly, and I truly adored every moment.
Highly recommend this one—it’s moving, romantic, and full of heart.
April 21, 2025
Defying the Crown by C.G. Macington is absolutely brilliant. I was initially drawn to it by the promise of hidden identity and MM romance, but what I got was so much more—a deeply layered, emotionally resonant story that surpassed my expectations.
What starts as a heartfelt exchange in a mental health support group beautifully evolves into a long-distance romance between Daniel, a grounded, kind soul from the foster care system, and Harald, a Crown Prince suffocated by the weight of royal expectations. Their slow-burn relationship is authentic, vulnerable, and built on honest communication—until the stunning reveal of Harald's true identity throws everything into chaos.
The emotional fallout is devastating in the best way, and what truly impressed me was how the author shifted the POVs to capture the grief, confusion, and heartbreak both men experience. The pacing is spot-on, and the story manages to balance quiet, intimate moments with high-stakes emotional drama without ever feeling forced.
This is one of those rare books that checks all the boxes: strong character arcs, tender romance, a fresh take on the royalty trope, and meaningful emotional depth. I adored it—and highly recommend it to anyone who loves MM romance with substance and soul.
What starts as a heartfelt exchange in a mental health support group beautifully evolves into a long-distance romance between Daniel, a grounded, kind soul from the foster care system, and Harald, a Crown Prince suffocated by the weight of royal expectations. Their slow-burn relationship is authentic, vulnerable, and built on honest communication—until the stunning reveal of Harald's true identity throws everything into chaos.
The emotional fallout is devastating in the best way, and what truly impressed me was how the author shifted the POVs to capture the grief, confusion, and heartbreak both men experience. The pacing is spot-on, and the story manages to balance quiet, intimate moments with high-stakes emotional drama without ever feeling forced.
This is one of those rare books that checks all the boxes: strong character arcs, tender romance, a fresh take on the royalty trope, and meaningful emotional depth. I adored it—and highly recommend it to anyone who loves MM romance with substance and soul.
January 23, 2026
Este livro foi escolhido á sorte, sem ler sinopse, apenas pelo titulo e porque a cor encaixa no meu Desafio Arco Iris. Foi um agradável surpresa. Não é uma temática pesada, mas aborda assuntos relevantes na temática lgbt, que em conjunto com a parte da realeza se tornam mais pronunciados. Uma leitura rápida e cativante, sem momentos mortos e personagens que nos atraem.
April 29, 2025
I was graciously provided a copy of Defying the Crown by its Author CG Macington. The review is given without bias.
This one is not your RW&RB.
When a bad break up leaves Daniel drowning, his therapist suggests that he find someone to talk with that doesn't know his story. He finally gives in and signs up for mindsupport.com. He tells his story and signs off for the night.
Harald is drowning too. Drowning from responsibility and impossible expectations from his father. The King of Denmark. Harald can't get anything right, everything he does isn't good enough for dad. Not to mention his father doesn't know he is gay, no one really does. Harald sees a therapist too. She suggests using a web site to talk things out, Harald can be anonymous. No one needs to know. He finds a willing ear and someone to chat with.
This is a wonderful story about Daniel learning how to open up and let Harald in. Can he trust Harald with his heart?
Can Harald trust Daniel? What will happen when he finds out who he is? Harald has kept his title a secret, he desperately wants someone to love him for him and not the crown upon his head.
This was at times an absolutely heart breaking story. And on the opposite side, this story is so healing. CG brings the angst. Harald has so much to overcome and Daniel is so broken. I loved the realness of emotions even set in a fantastical backdrop of a royal family. I thought it was well written and the pacing was great. Bring the tissues and make sure you read the trigger warnings. This book is tough in a lot of places. Both Daniel and Harald do a lot of heavy mental health healing. It's gritty, raw, and incredibly emotional. I loved the secondary characters, they added so much to the story. For both MC's their support systems were sometimes the only thing that got them through.
All in all, I really liked this book. The characters were so real, and the writing pulled you in. I'll be glad to pick up this author again, maybe even a sequel? Erik might need his own story.
Again thank you to CG MacIngton for providing me with this book.
This one is not your RW&RB.
When a bad break up leaves Daniel drowning, his therapist suggests that he find someone to talk with that doesn't know his story. He finally gives in and signs up for mindsupport.com. He tells his story and signs off for the night.
Harald is drowning too. Drowning from responsibility and impossible expectations from his father. The King of Denmark. Harald can't get anything right, everything he does isn't good enough for dad. Not to mention his father doesn't know he is gay, no one really does. Harald sees a therapist too. She suggests using a web site to talk things out, Harald can be anonymous. No one needs to know. He finds a willing ear and someone to chat with.
This is a wonderful story about Daniel learning how to open up and let Harald in. Can he trust Harald with his heart?
Can Harald trust Daniel? What will happen when he finds out who he is? Harald has kept his title a secret, he desperately wants someone to love him for him and not the crown upon his head.
This was at times an absolutely heart breaking story. And on the opposite side, this story is so healing. CG brings the angst. Harald has so much to overcome and Daniel is so broken. I loved the realness of emotions even set in a fantastical backdrop of a royal family. I thought it was well written and the pacing was great. Bring the tissues and make sure you read the trigger warnings. This book is tough in a lot of places. Both Daniel and Harald do a lot of heavy mental health healing. It's gritty, raw, and incredibly emotional. I loved the secondary characters, they added so much to the story. For both MC's their support systems were sometimes the only thing that got them through.
All in all, I really liked this book. The characters were so real, and the writing pulled you in. I'll be glad to pick up this author again, maybe even a sequel? Erik might need his own story.
Again thank you to CG MacIngton for providing me with this book.
April 26, 2025
There’s a certain amount of reality suspension you may have to do to really enjoy this book. But once you do, this a solid romance between two people with mental health issues. They each have challenges and personal demons. The story does go dark before it resolves in a very much earned HEA at the end. But there is some fluff and both main characters have wonderfully awesome supporting characters in each of their lives. And the ‘villian’ does get his comeuppance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 22, 2025
4.25 stars. The basic storyline wasn't particularly unusual, but the last part after the "breakup" was very powerful. I wasn't quite sure what Erik's role was throughout most of the story, but that turned out well. The ending was really touching. Harald and Daniel were both much stronger than they ever thought possible.
March 28, 2025
An interesting take on The Prince and the Pauper theme. Daniel has been through the wringer of the foster system, shares a New York apartment with an oddball straight couple and works in a cubicle for an insurance company. He took his breakup with his cheating ex badly and is in therapy. Harald is the Crown Prince of Denmark and has mental health problems of his own with the expectations placed on him and hiding his sexuality from his father, the King. When these two meet in an on-line mental health forum they quickly build a friendship in their anonymity. As their relationship transitions into real life they quickly fall for each other. Both value that feeling of being really seen for themselves and not all the external trappings. Trying not to have external trappings interfere means secrets abound. Secrets that cause major heartbreak when they come out. Honesty is critical for any relationship but determining when and what to share is difficult when the knowledge could change the relationship dynamics so completely. Past experiences on both sides have to be overcome as they acknowledge that what they had was real.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 2, 2025
A fairy tale with the best of happy endings. The romance, from the beginning to the conclusion of the book kept you reading as did the dramatic elements. Good friends, some good and some not so supportive family members and a love story that draws you into their world is always a good reading. Enjoyable and easy to get lost in all the while warming your heart with their journey to happiness.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 27, 2025
Daniel is going through some hard times. After a devastating breakup his life goes downhill. Not feeling worthy or loved he starts seeing a therapist who tells him to join a website with similar people as him. He chats with Harald, they have a great rapport & decide to take it up a notch with late night phone calls that last all night long. Harald never tells Daniel who he is, he wants someone to love him as Harald not as the Prince he is. He meets Daniel in New York, has a whirlwind romance till the public catches wind & Daniel finds out that Harald is a Prince. Devastated, Daniel leaves him ignoring his calls & texts. Lots of angst and heartbreak before they get their HEA. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 21, 2025
Defying the Crown fits the classic romance formula of someone with an awful ex, someone with a secret, and the kind of chemistry that would be setting off alarm bells in real life. In short, romance novel catnip. The cast are charming, and the laundry list of romance tropes makes for a good time.
While I appreciated the addressing of mental health issues and how they intersect with people’s love lives, I found the way that Daniel and Harald talked about their problems insufferable. Acting like they’re the only people with real problems, and the constant “at least you’re not-” just rubbed me the wrong way. This was more of a problem in the early phases of the book, and fortunately the characters grew, but, oof, what a start. That said, the idea that sometimes you can find “baggage” that goes with yours is a really lovely, beautiful thing. People don’t have to be perfect, don’t have to be well, to deserve their own love story; and for people struggling through mental health issues, that can be a really difficult bridge to cross.
Overall, I think the book needed another edit, and some of the ideas could have used some mor time to explore. There were some formatting issues, grammar issues, and the dialogue could use some more workshopping to be more believable and distinct.
I would read the author’s work again.
Important note: $250 is nowhere near enough money for what the poor taxi driver went through. Justice for the taxi driver.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
While I appreciated the addressing of mental health issues and how they intersect with people’s love lives, I found the way that Daniel and Harald talked about their problems insufferable. Acting like they’re the only people with real problems, and the constant “at least you’re not-” just rubbed me the wrong way. This was more of a problem in the early phases of the book, and fortunately the characters grew, but, oof, what a start. That said, the idea that sometimes you can find “baggage” that goes with yours is a really lovely, beautiful thing. People don’t have to be perfect, don’t have to be well, to deserve their own love story; and for people struggling through mental health issues, that can be a really difficult bridge to cross.
Overall, I think the book needed another edit, and some of the ideas could have used some mor time to explore. There were some formatting issues, grammar issues, and the dialogue could use some more workshopping to be more believable and distinct.
I would read the author’s work again.
Important note: $250 is nowhere near enough money for what the poor taxi driver went through. Justice for the taxi driver.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 5, 2025
There are a lot of gay royal romances in books but not in movies, until Red, White and Royal Blue came along. I really hope that the movie production people do the same for this book. It's not the same plot, but it does contain a common trope that I've seen a lot lately -- a prince trying to keep his identity a secret, and catfishing another person over the internet.
The two men in our story, Daniel and Harald have backgrounds as different as night and day. Daniel had an unhappy childhood in foster homes, while Daniel is none other than a prince. But he's not just any prince; he is the Crown Prince of Denmark, with all the trappings and responsibilities of a Crown Prince who will one day become King. They meet online, on an online mental health forum, and without knowing who each other one is, they fall in love. And when they finally meet in person, sparks fly, and they both find happiness until Daniel discovers that Harald is a prince, and they are both outed as gay.
This book contains a lot of angst, betrayal of trust, lover's betrayal, and a nod to suicide. Don't worry, they will have their happy ending but they have to go through a lot of heartache before they can get there.
The two men in our story, Daniel and Harald have backgrounds as different as night and day. Daniel had an unhappy childhood in foster homes, while Daniel is none other than a prince. But he's not just any prince; he is the Crown Prince of Denmark, with all the trappings and responsibilities of a Crown Prince who will one day become King. They meet online, on an online mental health forum, and without knowing who each other one is, they fall in love. And when they finally meet in person, sparks fly, and they both find happiness until Daniel discovers that Harald is a prince, and they are both outed as gay.
This book contains a lot of angst, betrayal of trust, lover's betrayal, and a nod to suicide. Don't worry, they will have their happy ending but they have to go through a lot of heartache before they can get there.
April 9, 2025
If I hadn't already read several royal romances, I might have given this book a higher review.
No doubt that this is a well-written book (I read an ARC version, so I will forgive some minor text flaws). The description of depression, its overwhelming influence on your life, is particularly well done. I also appreciated the inclusion of some secondary characters' thoughts, which balanced the main characters' preoccupation with depression.
However, I HAVE read several royal romances, so I cannot avoid a comparison. This book just isn't in the same league as others. Eric's account added a lot of detail to Harald's story, describing his life from his early years. We receive only the very basic outlines of Daniel's story. Because I know Harald better, his reaction to Daniel's rejection is believable. Daniel just comes across acting like the man that had hurt HIM: only thinking of HIS pain, quick to blame the other, unwilling to talk things out and accept very apologies. The conflict's resolution feels contrived and overly sweet; everyone forgives, the villain gets punished, and love wins.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
No doubt that this is a well-written book (I read an ARC version, so I will forgive some minor text flaws). The description of depression, its overwhelming influence on your life, is particularly well done. I also appreciated the inclusion of some secondary characters' thoughts, which balanced the main characters' preoccupation with depression.
However, I HAVE read several royal romances, so I cannot avoid a comparison. This book just isn't in the same league as others. Eric's account added a lot of detail to Harald's story, describing his life from his early years. We receive only the very basic outlines of Daniel's story. Because I know Harald better, his reaction to Daniel's rejection is believable. Daniel just comes across acting like the man that had hurt HIM: only thinking of HIS pain, quick to blame the other, unwilling to talk things out and accept very apologies. The conflict's resolution feels contrived and overly sweet; everyone forgives, the villain gets punished, and love wins.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 19, 2025
C.G. Macington's Defying the Crown is a book with a lot of potential. The characters of Harald and Daniel have endearing elements to them, which makes for a romantic read.
With both main characters, Macington creates very vulnerable men. Both have a variety of mental health needs, and both utilize an online forum to share their journey outside of their normal therapist work. The premise for the most part works. I do think it is odd that in a mental health post they are sharing what they look like. At times, both their post made it feel like a dating app, instead of a support group.
Macington excels at setting description. Daniel's work was so miserably described that at times I was cringing while laughing out loud. And the descriptions of Harald's castle are lovely. Macington's descriptions of depression are also haunting, delving into heartbreak and loneliness in an authentic way.
The book overall is a solid read. At times, Macington gets stuck on phrases and ends up repeating some things too often. But it doesn't detract from the story too much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With both main characters, Macington creates very vulnerable men. Both have a variety of mental health needs, and both utilize an online forum to share their journey outside of their normal therapist work. The premise for the most part works. I do think it is odd that in a mental health post they are sharing what they look like. At times, both their post made it feel like a dating app, instead of a support group.
Macington excels at setting description. Daniel's work was so miserably described that at times I was cringing while laughing out loud. And the descriptions of Harald's castle are lovely. Macington's descriptions of depression are also haunting, delving into heartbreak and loneliness in an authentic way.
The book overall is a solid read. At times, Macington gets stuck on phrases and ends up repeating some things too often. But it doesn't detract from the story too much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 20, 2025
This has to be a 5 star read for me. I have spent the past few years rereading and rereading Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston and now have another book that I can reread too. This had everything that Red, White and Royal Blue had. The charm. The wonderful characters. The great conversations. The awesome bantering. The realism of it all. Harry had the loving sister in his corner and Daniel the best friends. The way these two MC's meet and go about falling in love was beautiful to read. The book took some surprising turns that I wasn't really expecting but I truly wasn't disappointed at all. I love M/M fiction and I also like how in several of the books of that genre that I have read that the author takes nothing away from women by having strong women in support of the men in the relationship and this was no exception. The sister, best friend and Prime Minister were all examples of strong women. I received this book as an ARC and I thankful to the author and publisher. I have no hesitation in recommending this book especially to those who were fans of the Casey McQuiston book.
May 29, 2025
Honestly, it's probably closer to a 3.5 for me. It's not exactly a happy story. There's a lot of mental health issues between the 2 of them. The prince has been institutionalized before due to a breakdown, and the American commoner has been institutionalized before due to a suicide attempt. There's more institutionalization (& near death) for the Prince at the end due go his refusal to eat. If all this is ok with you, then give it a try. It reads easily and quickly, the plot moves along nicely, and the side characters are well done & interesting.
It feels wildly unrealistic - but in a Hallmark movie kind of way. I just can't believe that the crown would let the prince air his mental health issues online (even though he used an alias, it would have been easy for any of his countrymen to have figured out it was him), or to let him go anywhere without his bodyguards. Everything works out perfectly in the end (again, super unrealistic, but Hallmark-realistic).
It feels wildly unrealistic - but in a Hallmark movie kind of way. I just can't believe that the crown would let the prince air his mental health issues online (even though he used an alias, it would have been easy for any of his countrymen to have figured out it was him), or to let him go anywhere without his bodyguards. Everything works out perfectly in the end (again, super unrealistic, but Hallmark-realistic).
May 23, 2025
For the most part, this was a typical m/m royal meets commoner and they fall in love. The prince keeps his true identity a secret . When Daniel finds out he was seeing a prince things go haywire in the worst ways possible. Up to that point, I was unaffected ,
by the story, but that's where I lost it and cried because of all the hopelessness of the situation. Harald's father, the king was cold hearted and narrow minded. It hurt to read about his prejudices. Try this captivating love story with obstacles. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
by the story, but that's where I lost it and cried because of all the hopelessness of the situation. Harald's father, the king was cold hearted and narrow minded. It hurt to read about his prejudices. Try this captivating love story with obstacles. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
January 11, 2026
It held my interest very well throughout the book and I liked all the characters, but like many books these days, it's the small things that get in my pleasure reading . . . editing. Glaring holes and repeated phrases over and over and other little errors that detract from the enjoyment of the story. That is the only reason for the 4 stars.
September 11, 2025
OK, this made me cry a little. The beginning seemed a wee bit slow, but I soon realized it was a slow but steady warm up to the chaos that was to unfold, and boy! did it unfold. An utterly wonderful, painful, heart shattering tale. True love beats all but the journey to it is sometimes agony.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews