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Royally Arranged: An Arranged Marriage Royal Romantic Comedy (A Clean, Closed-Door Love Story)
This arranged marriage was meant to save a monarchy. Falling in love was never part of the deal.
It’s 1992, and I’ve just agreed to marry a man I barely Prince Frederic of Ledonia.
Across Europe, he’s known as the Ice Prince. He’s controlled, reserved, and about as emotionally expressive as a marble statue in a tailored suit.
Our marriage isn’t about romance. It’s about duty and the survival of the monarchy, and I have one smile for the cameras, behave like a future queen, and never forget this marriage is only an arrangement.
It should be simple.
Except nothing about Frederic feels simple. Beneath the icy reputation and impeccable manners is a man who notices everything. And sometimes, when he thinks no one is looking, he watches me like I’m not a royal obligation at all, but something far more dangerous.
Which definitely wasn’t part of the plan.
Unfortunately, the more time I spend with my very proper prince, the harder it is to remember this marriage is just for show.
So I’ve made up my If I’m going to marry a prince carved from marble, I’m determined to find the heartbeat beneath the crown. Even if it risks breaking mine.
A closed-door grumpy sunshine arranged marriage romance filled with wit, warmth, and a prince who never planned to fall in love. It’s a prequel to the Royally Kissed series and can be read as a standalone novel.
It’s 1992, and I’ve just agreed to marry a man I barely Prince Frederic of Ledonia.
Across Europe, he’s known as the Ice Prince. He’s controlled, reserved, and about as emotionally expressive as a marble statue in a tailored suit.
Our marriage isn’t about romance. It’s about duty and the survival of the monarchy, and I have one smile for the cameras, behave like a future queen, and never forget this marriage is only an arrangement.
It should be simple.
Except nothing about Frederic feels simple. Beneath the icy reputation and impeccable manners is a man who notices everything. And sometimes, when he thinks no one is looking, he watches me like I’m not a royal obligation at all, but something far more dangerous.
Which definitely wasn’t part of the plan.
Unfortunately, the more time I spend with my very proper prince, the harder it is to remember this marriage is just for show.
So I’ve made up my If I’m going to marry a prince carved from marble, I’m determined to find the heartbeat beneath the crown. Even if it risks breaking mine.
A closed-door grumpy sunshine arranged marriage romance filled with wit, warmth, and a prince who never planned to fall in love. It’s a prequel to the Royally Kissed series and can be read as a standalone novel.
- GenresRomanceRoyal Romance
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2026
14 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Kate O'Keeffe
98 books866 followersKate O'Keeffe is a USA TODAY bestselling and award-winning author who writes exactly what she loves to read: laugh-out-loud romantic comedies with swoon-worthy heroes and gorgeous feel-good happily ever afters. She lives and loves in beautiful Hawke's Bay, New Zealand with her family and two scruffy but loveable dogs.
When she's not penning her latest story, Kate can be found hiking up hills (slowly), traveling to different countries around the globe (back when we used to be able to do that), and eating chocolate. A lot of it.
Get a free book when you sign up to Kate's newsletter at kateokeeffe.com.
When she's not penning her latest story, Kate can be found hiking up hills (slowly), traveling to different countries around the globe (back when we used to be able to do that), and eating chocolate. A lot of it.
Get a free book when you sign up to Kate's newsletter at kateokeeffe.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
March 18, 2026
Before King Frederick & Queen Astrid were King Frederick & Queen Astrid, they were just a prince and a princess of different countries! And this story my friends is the story fans of the Royally Kissed series have been waiting for!!! Seriously!!! When the author announced she was writing this prequel story about the parents of the royal siblings we've all fallen in love with, I squealed with joy!!! And I don't think I was the only one who did! Happy Sigh to the nth power!!! You don't want to miss this one!
This is an opposites attract, royal story that will have you turning the pages quickly! Frederick is called the Ice Prince and Astrid is pure joy and sunshine! She's made it her goal to melt his frozen facade and bring happiness to his life. And boy does she deliver! Except Fredrick sure does do his fair share of the metaphorically kicking and screaming! Hahaha! I loved the wit and banter that came from these two and their opposite personalities. And I'll tell you that the sweet love story will have your heart melting in joy from it all! Watch out for those sparks, they're everywhere!!!
It isn't all fairytale and happily ever afters at first. But just hang on because there are ups and downs before the smooth sailing comes into play! But it's all worth it! I promise!!!
I hope you love this one as much as I did if you pick it up. You don't have to have read the Royally Kissed books but knowing what their relationship develops into years later was fun to know before reading this one. Or vice versa, if you're reading this first then you'll probably want to dive into the series to see more of them and their beautiful relationship!!!
Content: Clean. Some sweet kisses but nothing more.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This is an opposites attract, royal story that will have you turning the pages quickly! Frederick is called the Ice Prince and Astrid is pure joy and sunshine! She's made it her goal to melt his frozen facade and bring happiness to his life. And boy does she deliver! Except Fredrick sure does do his fair share of the metaphorically kicking and screaming! Hahaha! I loved the wit and banter that came from these two and their opposite personalities. And I'll tell you that the sweet love story will have your heart melting in joy from it all! Watch out for those sparks, they're everywhere!!!
It isn't all fairytale and happily ever afters at first. But just hang on because there are ups and downs before the smooth sailing comes into play! But it's all worth it! I promise!!!
I hope you love this one as much as I did if you pick it up. You don't have to have read the Royally Kissed books but knowing what their relationship develops into years later was fun to know before reading this one. Or vice versa, if you're reading this first then you'll probably want to dive into the series to see more of them and their beautiful relationship!!!
Content: Clean. Some sweet kisses but nothing more.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 12, 2026
I had no idea I needed this story and now it might be my favorite of the series.
A royal marriage of convenience to unite two kingdoms in crisis has never been more enjoyable.
Astrid and Frederic are complete opposites. Where he’s rules and binders and rigid, she’s carefree, playing with and naming palace chickens, and dancing with children.
Princess Astrid longs for Prince Frederic to loosen up and show some emotion. In the end, the Ice Prince cannot help but melt from this ray of sunshine. There is so much to love about these two. So many funny moments and tender peaks into this beloved pair from spilling tea (the drinking kind 😜) to visiting sick children in the hospital, my heart was giddy.
Talking about mixtapes, Walkmans, and all those 90s music references got me feeling nostalgic.
I had a perma smile the whole way through. Absolutely adored!
Thank you to Kate O’Keeffe for the copy. All opinions are my own.
A royal marriage of convenience to unite two kingdoms in crisis has never been more enjoyable.
Astrid and Frederic are complete opposites. Where he’s rules and binders and rigid, she’s carefree, playing with and naming palace chickens, and dancing with children.
Princess Astrid longs for Prince Frederic to loosen up and show some emotion. In the end, the Ice Prince cannot help but melt from this ray of sunshine. There is so much to love about these two. So many funny moments and tender peaks into this beloved pair from spilling tea (the drinking kind 😜) to visiting sick children in the hospital, my heart was giddy.
Talking about mixtapes, Walkmans, and all those 90s music references got me feeling nostalgic.
I had a perma smile the whole way through. Absolutely adored!
Thank you to Kate O’Keeffe for the copy. All opinions are my own.
March 11, 2026
This is the book that started all the Royal series and it’s based in the 90’s era.
I enjoyed it a lot , it’s based on Astrid and Fredric and they both agree to get married for the sake of their countries.
They aren’t totally strangers as they knew each other as children . “Asti and Fred” have completely different personalities. She is all sunshine and he is stiff and non smiling. She isn’t sure the engagement is going to work.
It’s such a cute book and there are some funny parts I was laughing at.
This can be a standalone book but it goes with the other Royal series .
Thank you Kate for my copy of the ARC
I enjoyed it a lot , it’s based on Astrid and Fredric and they both agree to get married for the sake of their countries.
They aren’t totally strangers as they knew each other as children . “Asti and Fred” have completely different personalities. She is all sunshine and he is stiff and non smiling. She isn’t sure the engagement is going to work.
It’s such a cute book and there are some funny parts I was laughing at.
This can be a standalone book but it goes with the other Royal series .
Thank you Kate for my copy of the ARC
March 11, 2026
And we go back to the start! Royally Arranged gives us the story of King Frederic (when he was still a Prince) and Queen Astrid. An arranged marriage to benefit their countries, Frederic and Astrid couldn’t be more opposite! Astrid is a free spirited extrovert who loves to chatter and Fred has a stiff upper lip, with a mantra of must not show emotions. So good to read about their love story having seen them throughout the series, great to be back at the Palace!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
March 13, 2026
I finished this last night and it was such a perfect prequel to these stories. Getting to see how Frederic and Astrid started out was so special. I loved that she was kind of a mess and he was the "Ice Prince." She tries everything to get him to open up - but he's so scared of falling in love that it almost ruins them. I loved the grand gesture at the end - so so fun. I'm sorry to leave this family - although maybe there will be more to this series one day.
March 13, 2026
This was a beautifully written prequel of a lovely series.
I loved getting to know the characters in their youth and how their marriage came about.
The best part about this book is that it can be read before or after the main series and still be as enjoyable.
I loved getting to know the characters in their youth and how their marriage came about.
The best part about this book is that it can be read before or after the main series and still be as enjoyable.
March 13, 2026
This was such a fun marriage of convenience romcom! I enjoyed the opposites attract aspects of this story!
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
March 12, 2026
Simply delightful as well as insightful . We cast back to 1972 and the start of the Royal family dynamics going forward . This is the origin story of the Royally series . So I was so looking forward to this with interest. Kate O’ Keeffe has always written beautiful stories that are like a light breeze on a summer’s eve. As you enter her realm of make believe..
A joining of two countries for the best of both worlds. Boy - Prince Frederic of Ledonia can’t help feeling lonely . If only he had a one and only. He’s known as the Ice Prince ,doesn’t have fun has never emitted a smile . Maybe a grimace or two. Until one day he’s captured on film. A camera sees what the eye doesn’t ,a glance ,maybe a romance in the offing. Well you can imagine, at this he’ll be coughing..All a splutter…
Then we have Princess Astrid of Elkevik she’s not rigid at all. In fact in her company even the animals have a ball. She’s carefree but will do anything at all for their small country . Which is all well and good because there’s a union in the offing and it’s no use sitting by and scoffing.A Marriage of convenience is how it starts ,not in matters of the heart. She does think he’s a sweetheart though for agreeing to be her beau.
So here we go the cute meet,though they’ve been in the same company at least twice before. So they play nice and have a nice dinner. The King and Queen think she’s a winner. And who’s this imposter? Their son must be because he’s smiling like a loon a real grinner.It’ll make their honeymoon photos look real as maybe a kiss he’ll steal.
But what of the happy couple as they go about their duties. The different places on the Royal tour are amazed and in awe. A new King with his future Queen ,the best ledonia has ever seen the likes of. Is this the security that they can be sure of going forward? Onwards and upwards and of course they’re followed quite closely by the Royal Correspondent so they have to act like they’re in love at least when the cameras are on.
What of this arrangement when the photo ops stop. Frederic of old with his riding crop. The hapless beauty who forgets her duty and wanders aimlessly,carefree and happy. Is she going to happy in his arms? Can he make her fall for his charm and into his arms ? Well we know they must don’t we because of the series . But getting to know their characters and how they came to be is quite swoon and what a honeymoon. Of course there’s some angst too as to be expected as to a new kingdom she’s been elected to be. There’s doubt as to if this would work but even the best of affairs of the heart can have a somewhat bumpy start.
Kate O Keeffe my love ,a splendid origins book to be sure of. Exciting,inviting . A treasure that only your imagination can provide with the right balance in their situation.The cadence is so strong and powerful that you can’t go wrong . Can’t stop thinking about their future happiness and the future generations playing their part in affairs of state ,as well as a strong heart rate sharing the same fate. And becoming soulmates. A surefire love that’s pure and full of charming desire what’s more , that lights from a single spark in this super story’s arc.King Fred and Queen Asti for the win and at the end I’m wearing a grin. Thanks Kate O Keeffe job well done. 👏🏻 Get in!
A joining of two countries for the best of both worlds. Boy - Prince Frederic of Ledonia can’t help feeling lonely . If only he had a one and only. He’s known as the Ice Prince ,doesn’t have fun has never emitted a smile . Maybe a grimace or two. Until one day he’s captured on film. A camera sees what the eye doesn’t ,a glance ,maybe a romance in the offing. Well you can imagine, at this he’ll be coughing..All a splutter…
Then we have Princess Astrid of Elkevik she’s not rigid at all. In fact in her company even the animals have a ball. She’s carefree but will do anything at all for their small country . Which is all well and good because there’s a union in the offing and it’s no use sitting by and scoffing.A Marriage of convenience is how it starts ,not in matters of the heart. She does think he’s a sweetheart though for agreeing to be her beau.
So here we go the cute meet,though they’ve been in the same company at least twice before. So they play nice and have a nice dinner. The King and Queen think she’s a winner. And who’s this imposter? Their son must be because he’s smiling like a loon a real grinner.It’ll make their honeymoon photos look real as maybe a kiss he’ll steal.
But what of the happy couple as they go about their duties. The different places on the Royal tour are amazed and in awe. A new King with his future Queen ,the best ledonia has ever seen the likes of. Is this the security that they can be sure of going forward? Onwards and upwards and of course they’re followed quite closely by the Royal Correspondent so they have to act like they’re in love at least when the cameras are on.
What of this arrangement when the photo ops stop. Frederic of old with his riding crop. The hapless beauty who forgets her duty and wanders aimlessly,carefree and happy. Is she going to happy in his arms? Can he make her fall for his charm and into his arms ? Well we know they must don’t we because of the series . But getting to know their characters and how they came to be is quite swoon and what a honeymoon. Of course there’s some angst too as to be expected as to a new kingdom she’s been elected to be. There’s doubt as to if this would work but even the best of affairs of the heart can have a somewhat bumpy start.
Kate O Keeffe my love ,a splendid origins book to be sure of. Exciting,inviting . A treasure that only your imagination can provide with the right balance in their situation.The cadence is so strong and powerful that you can’t go wrong . Can’t stop thinking about their future happiness and the future generations playing their part in affairs of state ,as well as a strong heart rate sharing the same fate. And becoming soulmates. A surefire love that’s pure and full of charming desire what’s more , that lights from a single spark in this super story’s arc.King Fred and Queen Asti for the win and at the end I’m wearing a grin. Thanks Kate O Keeffe job well done. 👏🏻 Get in!
March 19, 2026
Royally arranged
Al weer een nieuw boek van Kate O'Keeffe! Ik ben altijd dolgelukkig als er een verhaal van haar in mijn mailbox verschijnt. Haar schrijfstijl is zo fijn dat je echt wordt meegenomen in het verhaal. Alsof je met hun in het boek bent. Ook dit is weer een geweldig verhaal en was vanaf het eerste hoofdstuk verkocht. Frederic is wat stijfjes en erg serieus, waar Astrid een super vrolijke en vrije vrouw is. De kleine beetjes humor maakte de relatie tussen hun wat speelser. Voor een novelle bevatten dit alles wat een lang verhaal ook heeft. Het is een grumpy x sunshine verhaal wat heerlijk tussendoor te lezen is, ik vloog er ook doorheen! Ik heb echt onwijs genoten, kan niet wachten ook op het volgende deel!
In 1992, I agree to marry Prince Frederic of Ledonia. It’s for duty, stability, the very survival of the monarchy.
Not romance.
It should be simple. Except nothing about Frederic feels simple. He’s controlled, reserved, known across Europe as the "Ice Prince". He's all sharp edges and cold silences, a grumpy heir raised to believe feelings are liabilities.
And I’m the last woman he would ever have chosen.
I laugh too loudly. I dance in the rain. I tell goat jokes to diplomats.
But now, my role is clear: smile for the cameras, don’t embarrass the Crown, and never forget this is an arrangement. But sometimes I catch Frederic looking at me like I’m not a duty, and when he takes my hand for the press, his grip tightens, as if letting go might cost him more than the Crown.
This royal "showmance" was never meant to be real, but if I’m going to marry a prince carved from marble, I’m determined to find the heartbeat beneath the crown. Even if it means risking my own.
Another new book by Kate O'Keeffe! I am always overjoyed when a story of hers lands in my inbox. Her writing style is so delightful that you are truly drawn into the story. It is as if you are in the book with them. This is another amazing story, and I was hooked from the very first chapter. Frederic is a bit stiff and very serious, whereas Astrid is a super cheerful and free-spirited woman. The little touches of humor made their relationship a bit more playful. For a novella, it contains everything a long story has. It is a grumpy x sunshine story that is delightful to read in between other things; I flew through it! I really enjoyed it immensely and can't wait for the next installment!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ sterren
#lezenisontspanning #neverstopreading #spreadthebooklove #reading #bookstagramreadsmarch
Al weer een nieuw boek van Kate O'Keeffe! Ik ben altijd dolgelukkig als er een verhaal van haar in mijn mailbox verschijnt. Haar schrijfstijl is zo fijn dat je echt wordt meegenomen in het verhaal. Alsof je met hun in het boek bent. Ook dit is weer een geweldig verhaal en was vanaf het eerste hoofdstuk verkocht. Frederic is wat stijfjes en erg serieus, waar Astrid een super vrolijke en vrije vrouw is. De kleine beetjes humor maakte de relatie tussen hun wat speelser. Voor een novelle bevatten dit alles wat een lang verhaal ook heeft. Het is een grumpy x sunshine verhaal wat heerlijk tussendoor te lezen is, ik vloog er ook doorheen! Ik heb echt onwijs genoten, kan niet wachten ook op het volgende deel!
In 1992, I agree to marry Prince Frederic of Ledonia. It’s for duty, stability, the very survival of the monarchy.
Not romance.
It should be simple. Except nothing about Frederic feels simple. He’s controlled, reserved, known across Europe as the "Ice Prince". He's all sharp edges and cold silences, a grumpy heir raised to believe feelings are liabilities.
And I’m the last woman he would ever have chosen.
I laugh too loudly. I dance in the rain. I tell goat jokes to diplomats.
But now, my role is clear: smile for the cameras, don’t embarrass the Crown, and never forget this is an arrangement. But sometimes I catch Frederic looking at me like I’m not a duty, and when he takes my hand for the press, his grip tightens, as if letting go might cost him more than the Crown.
This royal "showmance" was never meant to be real, but if I’m going to marry a prince carved from marble, I’m determined to find the heartbeat beneath the crown. Even if it means risking my own.
Another new book by Kate O'Keeffe! I am always overjoyed when a story of hers lands in my inbox. Her writing style is so delightful that you are truly drawn into the story. It is as if you are in the book with them. This is another amazing story, and I was hooked from the very first chapter. Frederic is a bit stiff and very serious, whereas Astrid is a super cheerful and free-spirited woman. The little touches of humor made their relationship a bit more playful. For a novella, it contains everything a long story has. It is a grumpy x sunshine story that is delightful to read in between other things; I flew through it! I really enjoyed it immensely and can't wait for the next installment!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ sterren
#lezenisontspanning #neverstopreading #spreadthebooklove #reading #bookstagramreadsmarch
March 13, 2026
The story we’ve all been waiting for is here! I’ve absolutely adored the Royally Kissed series, but always wondered how King Frederick & Queen Astrid got together. Their story was even better than I imagined. Set in the 1990’s, Royally Arranged had me swooning & sighing in delight. Kate O’Keeffe delivers an irresistible arranged marriage, grumpy vs. sunshine romance filled with sizzling kisses, witty banter, & laugh out loud adorableness.
Prince Frederick of Ledonia needs something to change. The country is toying with a referendum abolishing the monarchy & Frederick’s icy demeanor doesn’t help. When the local tabloid magazine notices his rare smile while admiring Princess Astrid of Elkevik, the idea that the two might marry suddenly becomes a suggestion his royal parents take seriously. Ledonia needs new life breathed in to the monarchy, & Elkevik’s wool. Elkevik needs Ledonia’s money. But, Astrid is nothing like the beige prince. She’s a ray of sunshine, optimistic, & endearingly clumsy. A marriage between the two seems impossible.
Princess Astrid of Elkevik enjoys making others happy. She loves nothing more than spending time outdoors, walking around in her wellies helping the local children name chickens & caring for her goats. She’s shocked when the handsome prince she’s only met twice & had a crush on ever since is offering for her hand in marriage. It’s supposed to be a marriage of convenience, but Astrid convinces herself she can find the real prince beneath his icy, duty bound facade.
Loved this story! Astrid is such a delight. She’s funny, sweet, & full of life. Frederick is so tightly wound, a stickler for protocol & decorum. I loved seeing Asti break down his walls. She’s the yin to his yang & while she drives him a bit crazy, she’s the one who brings out the best in him. I loved their dance, swimming with dolphins, & finally seeing Fred shed his icy moniker.
The 90’s setting was icing on the cake! Loved all the music references & the slang. It brought me back to my high school & college days.
Highly recommend this delightful, romantic romcom! This is the prequel to the Royally Kissed series & can be read at any time. I received an advanced copy from the author but also purchased in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.
Prince Frederick of Ledonia needs something to change. The country is toying with a referendum abolishing the monarchy & Frederick’s icy demeanor doesn’t help. When the local tabloid magazine notices his rare smile while admiring Princess Astrid of Elkevik, the idea that the two might marry suddenly becomes a suggestion his royal parents take seriously. Ledonia needs new life breathed in to the monarchy, & Elkevik’s wool. Elkevik needs Ledonia’s money. But, Astrid is nothing like the beige prince. She’s a ray of sunshine, optimistic, & endearingly clumsy. A marriage between the two seems impossible.
Princess Astrid of Elkevik enjoys making others happy. She loves nothing more than spending time outdoors, walking around in her wellies helping the local children name chickens & caring for her goats. She’s shocked when the handsome prince she’s only met twice & had a crush on ever since is offering for her hand in marriage. It’s supposed to be a marriage of convenience, but Astrid convinces herself she can find the real prince beneath his icy, duty bound facade.
Loved this story! Astrid is such a delight. She’s funny, sweet, & full of life. Frederick is so tightly wound, a stickler for protocol & decorum. I loved seeing Asti break down his walls. She’s the yin to his yang & while she drives him a bit crazy, she’s the one who brings out the best in him. I loved their dance, swimming with dolphins, & finally seeing Fred shed his icy moniker.
The 90’s setting was icing on the cake! Loved all the music references & the slang. It brought me back to my high school & college days.
Highly recommend this delightful, romantic romcom! This is the prequel to the Royally Kissed series & can be read at any time. I received an advanced copy from the author but also purchased in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.
March 11, 2026
This story is the one I was hoping Kate O’Keeffe would write and now that she has it was worth all the silent pleading I did! We have met the children of King Frederic and Queen Astrid over the course of the series, but to truly know someone is know where they come from (or at least that’s my opinion). This book delivered that on a marble platter.
Prince Frederic is the “Ice Prince” and often referred to as a marble statue that will crack for nothing and no one! If you were to look up a picture of decorum, this man’s face would be all over it. At nearly 28, with zero prospects and the Ledonian royal family losing the love of their people, they must act fast to turn things around. When an article comes out showcasing the prince actually smiling and towards a fellow single royal, the gossip makes for more than interesting fodder and presents a potential solution.
Enter Princess Astrid of Elkevik, 4 years the prince’s junior and his opposite in every sense of the word. The woman is a free spirit who spends much of her time with animals and children! When we first meet her, she’s with some kids in a chicken coop and naming one of the hens. She would rather be in her Wellies aka rubber boots than high heels; to be honest I love that about her. However, her country has their own crisis, financial, so how to fix it- enter the proposal of a MOC!
While these royals are the complete contrast of each other and will have their work cut out for them to prove that there is more to their impending marriage than the obvious benefits, it was fun to see them try. Going on their “royal romance tour,” had some fun highlights and seeing how they would blend their lives had me intrigued. Perhaps my favorite moments were those when one of them was taken out of their comfort zone and they learned to bend a little. With this being a flashback prequel, set in 1992 (happy to report I was alive during that time), the nods to pop culture, Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and even a mixtape, brought a large smile to my face! Job well done Kate in showcasing what could have been the most awkward of all the Ledonian marriages but truly worked out for the best!
Prince Frederic is the “Ice Prince” and often referred to as a marble statue that will crack for nothing and no one! If you were to look up a picture of decorum, this man’s face would be all over it. At nearly 28, with zero prospects and the Ledonian royal family losing the love of their people, they must act fast to turn things around. When an article comes out showcasing the prince actually smiling and towards a fellow single royal, the gossip makes for more than interesting fodder and presents a potential solution.
Enter Princess Astrid of Elkevik, 4 years the prince’s junior and his opposite in every sense of the word. The woman is a free spirit who spends much of her time with animals and children! When we first meet her, she’s with some kids in a chicken coop and naming one of the hens. She would rather be in her Wellies aka rubber boots than high heels; to be honest I love that about her. However, her country has their own crisis, financial, so how to fix it- enter the proposal of a MOC!
While these royals are the complete contrast of each other and will have their work cut out for them to prove that there is more to their impending marriage than the obvious benefits, it was fun to see them try. Going on their “royal romance tour,” had some fun highlights and seeing how they would blend their lives had me intrigued. Perhaps my favorite moments were those when one of them was taken out of their comfort zone and they learned to bend a little. With this being a flashback prequel, set in 1992 (happy to report I was alive during that time), the nods to pop culture, Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and even a mixtape, brought a large smile to my face! Job well done Kate in showcasing what could have been the most awkward of all the Ledonian marriages but truly worked out for the best!
March 13, 2026
Yet another charming, romantic and beautifully told story by Kate O'Keefe, it is the forerunner to the brilliant "Royally Kissed" series, the story of Queen Astrid and King Fredrick of Ledonia.
Princess Astrid of Elkevik's life had been carefree, she had been cherished by her parents, she had danced amongst the flowers in her beloved garden, she loved her chickens and goats and had named them all. Astrid knew that the time was fast approaching when she would have to marry, she had to make a good marriage, her country desperately needed the money.
After a picture of Asti dancing, barefoot to cheer up sick children, a picture with a smiling Prince Fredrick of Ledonia looking on, it was suggested that this would be a good match, Prince Fredrick never smiled.
The King and Queen of Ledonia also saw the picture, the beautiful, charming Princess from Elkevik would be an ideal bride for their only son, she would bring laughter and gaiety, and perhaps turn the tide of the referendum in their favour.
Fred and Asti had met once before as children and Asti had been strangely attracted to the dark, brooding Fred. but they were now adults and Fred was exactly as the press perceived him, he was uptight, he was organised to a fault, he never let his regal persona slip even when there was just the two of them, he was always aware of his position, and he never smiled......Asti had a fight on her hands, the trouble was, the press were already predicting that this was an arranged marriage to put the monarchy in a good light, and not a love match that the people wanted.
Seeing all the negative press, the King and Queen suggested a tour of the kingdom, a tour where they would get to know each other. This tour was filled with some bright spots, some humour and not a little frustration, Asti managed to get Fred to lighten up but underneath she knew that he still viewed the engagement as a contract, could she marry the dark, handsome Prince, knowing that there was no love involved ? door was still open for her to return to Elkevik
A lovely few hours of escapism
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
Princess Astrid of Elkevik's life had been carefree, she had been cherished by her parents, she had danced amongst the flowers in her beloved garden, she loved her chickens and goats and had named them all. Astrid knew that the time was fast approaching when she would have to marry, she had to make a good marriage, her country desperately needed the money.
After a picture of Asti dancing, barefoot to cheer up sick children, a picture with a smiling Prince Fredrick of Ledonia looking on, it was suggested that this would be a good match, Prince Fredrick never smiled.
The King and Queen of Ledonia also saw the picture, the beautiful, charming Princess from Elkevik would be an ideal bride for their only son, she would bring laughter and gaiety, and perhaps turn the tide of the referendum in their favour.
Fred and Asti had met once before as children and Asti had been strangely attracted to the dark, brooding Fred. but they were now adults and Fred was exactly as the press perceived him, he was uptight, he was organised to a fault, he never let his regal persona slip even when there was just the two of them, he was always aware of his position, and he never smiled......Asti had a fight on her hands, the trouble was, the press were already predicting that this was an arranged marriage to put the monarchy in a good light, and not a love match that the people wanted.
Seeing all the negative press, the King and Queen suggested a tour of the kingdom, a tour where they would get to know each other. This tour was filled with some bright spots, some humour and not a little frustration, Asti managed to get Fred to lighten up but underneath she knew that he still viewed the engagement as a contract, could she marry the dark, handsome Prince, knowing that there was no love involved ? door was still open for her to return to Elkevik
A lovely few hours of escapism
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
March 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️
The royal love story that started it all! Kate O’Keeffe has already made us fall in love with all the royal siblings and their significant others, but I am so happy she finally gave us the story that started this legacy. This may be book 5 in the Royally Kissed series, but it takes place in 1992, when a marriage of convenience turns into something so much more and deeper then either MC could imagine. I loved reading the 90s vibes and Kate definitely made me nostalgic for my childhood/teenage years.
Princess Astrid and Prince Frederic must marry for the sake of their countries. Both born into privilege, they understand the importance of duty. Frederic’s reputation precedes him, known through Europe as the Ice Prince, so Astrid isn’t sure on what to expect from him. While they’ve known each other since childhood, neither one of them truly knows the others. So what happens when Princess Sunshine and Prince Grumpy marry? Heated eye glances, electric hand grazes, and a love that neither of them ever expected to find in the other.
I adored reading more about Astrid and Frederic. It was amazing to see how this deep love started and how these two people truly came to be the examples for their children later in life. Astrid quickly realizes Frederic is nothing like the rumors say he is and Frederic can’t help but gravitate towards Astrid. As their marriage takes them on a tour around their countries, even people notice the difference in each of them. They were truly a joy to read about.
Writing an origin story can’t be easy. Your readers already have an expectation and knowing of the characters, but Kate does it masterfully. You see glimpses of both Astri and Fred as we know them in the “later” books, but get to know parts of them never revealed. She definitely took her time to develop them to be new and exciting, while still feeling familiar and known. This whole series has been so fun to read!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
👑Marriage of Convenience
💙Grumpy x Sunshine
👑Opposites Attract
💙Forced Proximity
👑Royalty Romance
💙Childhood Crush to More
👑Closed Door Romance
The royal love story that started it all! Kate O’Keeffe has already made us fall in love with all the royal siblings and their significant others, but I am so happy she finally gave us the story that started this legacy. This may be book 5 in the Royally Kissed series, but it takes place in 1992, when a marriage of convenience turns into something so much more and deeper then either MC could imagine. I loved reading the 90s vibes and Kate definitely made me nostalgic for my childhood/teenage years.
Princess Astrid and Prince Frederic must marry for the sake of their countries. Both born into privilege, they understand the importance of duty. Frederic’s reputation precedes him, known through Europe as the Ice Prince, so Astrid isn’t sure on what to expect from him. While they’ve known each other since childhood, neither one of them truly knows the others. So what happens when Princess Sunshine and Prince Grumpy marry? Heated eye glances, electric hand grazes, and a love that neither of them ever expected to find in the other.
I adored reading more about Astrid and Frederic. It was amazing to see how this deep love started and how these two people truly came to be the examples for their children later in life. Astrid quickly realizes Frederic is nothing like the rumors say he is and Frederic can’t help but gravitate towards Astrid. As their marriage takes them on a tour around their countries, even people notice the difference in each of them. They were truly a joy to read about.
Writing an origin story can’t be easy. Your readers already have an expectation and knowing of the characters, but Kate does it masterfully. You see glimpses of both Astri and Fred as we know them in the “later” books, but get to know parts of them never revealed. She definitely took her time to develop them to be new and exciting, while still feeling familiar and known. This whole series has been so fun to read!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
👑Marriage of Convenience
💙Grumpy x Sunshine
👑Opposites Attract
💙Forced Proximity
👑Royalty Romance
💙Childhood Crush to More
👑Closed Door Romance
March 11, 2026
Reader’s Notes:
*Series or Connected Books?* part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
-this is a prequel to the Royally Kissed series (this book is about the parents of the siblings the series is focused on)
*Point Of View:* Fredrick & Astrid
*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* None!
*Romance?* Yes! Just kisses
*Things To Know:*
–there is an age gap of about 5 years between them
Review:
I loved this so much! Astrid and Fredrick’s story was so cute! I loved the dynamic between the two of them and seeing how Astrid tried to pull Fredrick out of his grumpy “Ice Prince” demeanor. I loved that Fredrick helped Astrid navigate her new life in Ledonia and the people he knew but she was just meeting. I loved Astrid’s hope for their upcoming marriage and her determination to get to know him better. I loved seeing Fredrick’s emotions/thoughts go against his carefully curated life plan as he fell for Astrid too!
Now I have to go back and finish the books from their children’s series when I get the chance!
Summary:
When the gossip sites take up the idea of a marriage between Crown Prince Fredrick of Ledonia and a princess he’s only met a few times in his life, Fredrick is certain that his parents would laugh with him about the audacity of the idea. But with no marriage prospects on the horizon for him and people breathing down the royal family’s necks right now, the idea is less hilarious and more of a valid idea to save the monarchy. But would Princess Astrid even be open to the idea? Especially when Fredrick is so stoic and stand-off while she is his complete opposite?
Princess Astrid would do anything for her country, but more than anything the reason she accepts an arranged marriage is for the possibility of an adventure. Because that one smile she got out of Prince Fredrick has her determined to find how to make him release another. What could be below the surface of the “Ice Prince”? If their marriage is going to work, Astrid will find out. Only question is will her efforts be enough?
*Series or Connected Books?* part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
-this is a prequel to the Royally Kissed series (this book is about the parents of the siblings the series is focused on)
*Point Of View:* Fredrick & Astrid
*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* None!
*Romance?* Yes! Just kisses
*Things To Know:*
–there is an age gap of about 5 years between them
Review:
I loved this so much! Astrid and Fredrick’s story was so cute! I loved the dynamic between the two of them and seeing how Astrid tried to pull Fredrick out of his grumpy “Ice Prince” demeanor. I loved that Fredrick helped Astrid navigate her new life in Ledonia and the people he knew but she was just meeting. I loved Astrid’s hope for their upcoming marriage and her determination to get to know him better. I loved seeing Fredrick’s emotions/thoughts go against his carefully curated life plan as he fell for Astrid too!
Now I have to go back and finish the books from their children’s series when I get the chance!
Summary:
When the gossip sites take up the idea of a marriage between Crown Prince Fredrick of Ledonia and a princess he’s only met a few times in his life, Fredrick is certain that his parents would laugh with him about the audacity of the idea. But with no marriage prospects on the horizon for him and people breathing down the royal family’s necks right now, the idea is less hilarious and more of a valid idea to save the monarchy. But would Princess Astrid even be open to the idea? Especially when Fredrick is so stoic and stand-off while she is his complete opposite?
Princess Astrid would do anything for her country, but more than anything the reason she accepts an arranged marriage is for the possibility of an adventure. Because that one smile she got out of Prince Fredrick has her determined to find how to make him release another. What could be below the surface of the “Ice Prince”? If their marriage is going to work, Astrid will find out. Only question is will her efforts be enough?
March 16, 2026
ARC REVIEW:
Special thanks to Wild Lime Books and Kate O’Keeffe for sending me a complimentary copy of this book (electronic). This is an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Royals marrying for political and/or economical gain(s) is a common occurrence. Therefore, no one batted an eye when the kingdoms of Ledeonia and Elkevik agree to an arranged marriage. But it appears there just might be a chance for love between Prince Frederic and Princess Astrid after all. Will the couple unearth deep seated feelings(from childhood), or will duty and survival remain the only reason for the matrimony?
Kate O’Keeffe pulled off the unthinkable, a surprise release!!!
Devoted fans and readers of O’Keeffe’s are in for a royal surprise! Her beloved Royally Kissed Series just gained a prequel via, Royally Arranged. This unannounced release finally lets readers in on the love story that started it all, Prince Frederic and Princess Astrid.
As someone who is late to the Royally Kissed party( only read book 4), I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I appreciated that O’Keeffe wrote this (and the rest of the series) as a standalone novel that can be enjoyed as such. With that being said O’Keeffe has turned me into a HUGE fan of royal romances. As a result, I am itching to go back and read books 1-3!!!
Be sure to read this book for:
-Marriage of Convenience/ Arranged Marriage
-Royal Romance
-Childhood Crush
-Grumpy/ Sunshine
-Opposites Attract
-Forced Proximity
-Sizzling Chemistry/ Kisses
Special thanks to Wild Lime Books and Kate O’Keeffe for sending me a complimentary copy of this book (electronic). This is an honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Royals marrying for political and/or economical gain(s) is a common occurrence. Therefore, no one batted an eye when the kingdoms of Ledeonia and Elkevik agree to an arranged marriage. But it appears there just might be a chance for love between Prince Frederic and Princess Astrid after all. Will the couple unearth deep seated feelings(from childhood), or will duty and survival remain the only reason for the matrimony?
Kate O’Keeffe pulled off the unthinkable, a surprise release!!!
Devoted fans and readers of O’Keeffe’s are in for a royal surprise! Her beloved Royally Kissed Series just gained a prequel via, Royally Arranged. This unannounced release finally lets readers in on the love story that started it all, Prince Frederic and Princess Astrid.
As someone who is late to the Royally Kissed party( only read book 4), I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I appreciated that O’Keeffe wrote this (and the rest of the series) as a standalone novel that can be enjoyed as such. With that being said O’Keeffe has turned me into a HUGE fan of royal romances. As a result, I am itching to go back and read books 1-3!!!
Be sure to read this book for:
-Marriage of Convenience/ Arranged Marriage
-Royal Romance
-Childhood Crush
-Grumpy/ Sunshine
-Opposites Attract
-Forced Proximity
-Sizzling Chemistry/ Kisses
March 12, 2026
If you have not read any of the books in this series, don't fret because this is the perfect place to start. This prequel was absolutely delightful. A story full of funny moments, royal duties and a chance to melt the ice prince.
Prince Frederic and Princess Astrid, along with their royal families, have agreed to a marriage of duty between these two youngsters, who could not be more opposite. Frederic is all business. You will not find any wrinkles on this guy's suit, nor any on his face. Stone statues have more fun than good old Fred. His people call him the ice prince.
Astrid, on the other hand, is full of sunshine and charm. What you see is what you get from Astrid. There is nothing fake about her. She fully enjoys life to its fullest. Mishaps and clumsiness seem to follow Astrid around. She can clear a room with her mishaps. I laughed so many times because I can truly relate. But she can also charm a room full of stone faced people in a matter of minutes.
Fred is little horrified at Astrid's lack of diplomacy (for lack of a better word), but she intrigues him. However, he still cannot seem to set aside his rigor. Astrid will be just the person to put a chink in this prince's armor and make him smile.
If you enjoy a light-hearted royal romance, you will devour this short and sweet story. Then you will want to move on to the other books in this fantastic series.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Prince Frederic and Princess Astrid, along with their royal families, have agreed to a marriage of duty between these two youngsters, who could not be more opposite. Frederic is all business. You will not find any wrinkles on this guy's suit, nor any on his face. Stone statues have more fun than good old Fred. His people call him the ice prince.
Astrid, on the other hand, is full of sunshine and charm. What you see is what you get from Astrid. There is nothing fake about her. She fully enjoys life to its fullest. Mishaps and clumsiness seem to follow Astrid around. She can clear a room with her mishaps. I laughed so many times because I can truly relate. But she can also charm a room full of stone faced people in a matter of minutes.
Fred is little horrified at Astrid's lack of diplomacy (for lack of a better word), but she intrigues him. However, he still cannot seem to set aside his rigor. Astrid will be just the person to put a chink in this prince's armor and make him smile.
If you enjoy a light-hearted royal romance, you will devour this short and sweet story. Then you will want to move on to the other books in this fantastic series.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 13, 2026
I have been enjoying the Royally Kissed series from this author so I was delighted to see this prequel featuring the parents of the previous book heroes. It was such a cute story, Frederic and Astrid could not be more opposite.
Astrid was such a sweetie, she was full of life, sunshine and joy. She won people over quickly by just being herself, people liked her. She was good with children and animals and she had a natural sunshine around her, even her signature colour was yellow. She agreed to the arranged marriage to help her own kingdom and save them from financial hardship, showing her selflessness and bravery.
Frederic was such a conundrum. He had a strong sense of duty and loyalty to his family and the kingdom, otherwise he would never have agreed to the marriage between him and Astrid. He rarely showed any kind of affection or even enjoyment in public, always keeping his emotions in check. Astrid is like a breath of fresh air into his life, or rather a gale force wind. She breaks through his marble exterior and finds the man inside the prince.
I enjoyed watching these two complete opposites fall in love with each other. Neither of them believed it could be possible but they slowly found the common ground and became a true love match rather than just a business arrangement.
The story moved along quickly but never rushed, I felt like I spent just the right amount of time with Frederic and Astrid, particularly given this is a prequel, you know how the story ends but it was entertaining watching how they got there.
Astrid was such a sweetie, she was full of life, sunshine and joy. She won people over quickly by just being herself, people liked her. She was good with children and animals and she had a natural sunshine around her, even her signature colour was yellow. She agreed to the arranged marriage to help her own kingdom and save them from financial hardship, showing her selflessness and bravery.
Frederic was such a conundrum. He had a strong sense of duty and loyalty to his family and the kingdom, otherwise he would never have agreed to the marriage between him and Astrid. He rarely showed any kind of affection or even enjoyment in public, always keeping his emotions in check. Astrid is like a breath of fresh air into his life, or rather a gale force wind. She breaks through his marble exterior and finds the man inside the prince.
I enjoyed watching these two complete opposites fall in love with each other. Neither of them believed it could be possible but they slowly found the common ground and became a true love match rather than just a business arrangement.
The story moved along quickly but never rushed, I felt like I spent just the right amount of time with Frederic and Astrid, particularly given this is a prequel, you know how the story ends but it was entertaining watching how they got there.
March 19, 2026
Royally Arranged is the story that started it all. Haven’t read the Royally Kissed series yet about the royal siblings of Ledonia, this is the perfect place to start. You get to see how King Frederic and Queen Astrid fell in love and it is such a sweet journey with a few hiccups along the way. Frederic will be the next king and with that comes a lot of responsibility. He is so stoic and proper that they term him the “Ice Prince.” Astrid is nothing but pure sunshine and everyone she meets can’t help being charmed by her. Both have a great sense of duty to their countries and agree to an arranged marriage. I loved that Astrid has every intention of chipping away at Frederic’s icy exterior and she does it by sharing her rays of sunshine with him. Poor Frederic had no chance defying the growing affection he has for Astrid, and it was fun to finally see him let go a little. I loved watching her make him smile! The two were meant to be together. Royally Arranged is a story full of duty, sweet moments, and romance where two opposites find common ground and fall in love. I love their story!
Tropes: royal romcom = prequel story = arranged marriage = opposites attract = grumpy/sunshine = forced proximity = childhood crush to more = swoony kisses
Favorite things:
- Astrid’s joy
- She calls him Fred
- The engagement photos
- Swimming with dolphins
- The lantern festival
- The train station
- Throwback to the 90’s
- The epilogue!
Happy reading!
Tropes: royal romcom = prequel story = arranged marriage = opposites attract = grumpy/sunshine = forced proximity = childhood crush to more = swoony kisses
Favorite things:
- Astrid’s joy
- She calls him Fred
- The engagement photos
- Swimming with dolphins
- The lantern festival
- The train station
- Throwback to the 90’s
- The epilogue!
Happy reading!
March 12, 2026
For those of us who have read the Royally Kissed series, we already know a little bit about King Frederic and Queen Astrid of Ledonia (they are the parents of the royal siblings that this series follows). So, a trip back to 1992 to see how their love story started!? Yes, please! Honestly, this was the prequel that I didn't know that I needed... and I absolutely loved it! Frederic was exactly what you might expect from a future king... very proper and by the book. Astrid was his exact opposite, full of life and more of a free spirit. I loved how perfectly they balanced each other out, and how she brought out a different side of him just by being herself. Truly, it was impossible not to love these two. And having read the rest of the series already, it was also fun to see where each of their children got parts of their personalities. (But don't worry if you haven't read the other books! While I definitely think those who have will love seeing where it all began, I do think you could still enjoy this one just fine as a standalone.) If you love stories with Princess Diaries vibes, arranged marriages, opposites attract and some great 90s references too, this is one not to be missed.
Royally Arranged is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Royally Arranged is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Read
March 12, 2026Astrid and Frederic find themselves in an arranged marriage wondering if this is the right thing to do. Princess Astrid is the princess of Elkevik, and Prince Frederic is the prince of Ledonia. The country of Elkevik is in dire straights financially since their recent trade deal fell through. Ledonia is facing a referendum that could end the royal family. Each of them feels a duty to their country and agree to go forward with the arranged marriage.
They become engaged and Frederic doesn’t want anyone other than their respective royal families to know that it’s an arranged marriage. But when the stiff engagement photos are published, they face a PR nightmare. Frederic’s reputation as the Ice Prince and Marble Statue are appearing in all the news articles. To combat this nightmare, the royal families decide that Astrid and Frederic need to go on a tour of Ledonia, showing the country that the two of them are truly in love. Will they survive the tour? Will Astrid be able to break down the walls Frederic keeps up to protect himself?
Highly recommend.
They become engaged and Frederic doesn’t want anyone other than their respective royal families to know that it’s an arranged marriage. But when the stiff engagement photos are published, they face a PR nightmare. Frederic’s reputation as the Ice Prince and Marble Statue are appearing in all the news articles. To combat this nightmare, the royal families decide that Astrid and Frederic need to go on a tour of Ledonia, showing the country that the two of them are truly in love. Will they survive the tour? Will Astrid be able to break down the walls Frederic keeps up to protect himself?
Highly recommend.
March 21, 2026
I am so thrilled that Kate O’Keeffe took us back to the very beginning of this wonderful royal family! Royally Arranged is a beautiful look at how this legacy started, and it’s a must-read for fans of the series.
The "opposites attract" energy in this book is perfection: Frederick, the uptight, strong-willed future King who believes an emotionless reign is the only way to rule. Astrid, a total breath of fresh air! She’s quirky, full of joy, and lives life to the fullest
While Frederick is determined not to change, watching Astrid slowly pull him out of his shell during their scheduled royal activities was such a treat. It felt inevitable that she would find her way into his heart, but the journey there was filled with "sweet romance" goodness. The addition of animals and children added that extra layer of warmth that Kate O’Keeffe does so well.
Astrid is pure joy, and her mission to thaw the Ice Prince before her own heart breaks kept me turning the pages. If you haven’t started the Royally Kissed series yet, this is the perfect place to dive in and see where the magic began.
The "opposites attract" energy in this book is perfection: Frederick, the uptight, strong-willed future King who believes an emotionless reign is the only way to rule. Astrid, a total breath of fresh air! She’s quirky, full of joy, and lives life to the fullest
While Frederick is determined not to change, watching Astrid slowly pull him out of his shell during their scheduled royal activities was such a treat. It felt inevitable that she would find her way into his heart, but the journey there was filled with "sweet romance" goodness. The addition of animals and children added that extra layer of warmth that Kate O’Keeffe does so well.
Astrid is pure joy, and her mission to thaw the Ice Prince before her own heart breaks kept me turning the pages. If you haven’t started the Royally Kissed series yet, this is the perfect place to dive in and see where the magic began.
March 12, 2026
This book is the prequel to the other four books in this series which are about the royal children of the prince and princess who fall in love and marry after their arranged marriage by both their royal parents from Ledonia and Elkevik. The arranged marriage is because both countries have political and economical reasons for an alliance. At first the prince and princess discover they have nothing in common. He is like “black” and she is like “white”. They are complete opposites. I have always liked this trope.
I enjoyed this story because it made me laugh during the first few chapters when the characters learn of their fate. I also liked it because it was fun to read how they faked their engagement for their countries. Then later how they discovered their feelings for each other. In my opinion the humorous writing in this book is what makes it fun for the reader.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
I enjoyed this story because it made me laugh during the first few chapters when the characters learn of their fate. I also liked it because it was fun to read how they faked their engagement for their countries. Then later how they discovered their feelings for each other. In my opinion the humorous writing in this book is what makes it fun for the reader.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
March 11, 2026
If you haven't read the previous books in this series, it's perfectly fine! This is actually a prequel to the wonderful series about the royal children of Ledonia. It's about the meeting and courtship of the king and queen.
I must admit I had never thought about the royal parents much before, however this book was a chance to understand their parenting. Prince Fredric was a dedicated ruler, but all business. Princes Astrid of Elkevik new what her job was, but made everything she did look like fun! They were total opposites. This is their journey to the kind and loving parents we have come to know in the Royally Kissed series by Ms Okeeffe. The story about how "Fred" and "Asti" met and almost escaped matrimony. So much fun! I laughed and snickered throughout the book and confess my eyes were leaking some happy tears near the ending. I loved the book!
I must admit I had never thought about the royal parents much before, however this book was a chance to understand their parenting. Prince Fredric was a dedicated ruler, but all business. Princes Astrid of Elkevik new what her job was, but made everything she did look like fun! They were total opposites. This is their journey to the kind and loving parents we have come to know in the Royally Kissed series by Ms Okeeffe. The story about how "Fred" and "Asti" met and almost escaped matrimony. So much fun! I laughed and snickered throughout the book and confess my eyes were leaking some happy tears near the ending. I loved the book!
March 11, 2026
I love this prequel to the Royally Kissed series. Frederick is a stiff, by the book, statue of a man. His life revolves around protocol, himself, and binders. Until Astrid enters his life. She brings chaos, spontaneity and energy into his dreary world. Do their opposite worlds collide or blend together. This really is a delightful story. I was pulled in from the very beginning and enjoyed watching this marriage of convenience go from rocky to swoony, with all the bumps in between. The characters are entertaining. Frederick is Mr. grumpy and Astrid is definitely Miss sunshine. This story can be read as a standalone. The series is about each of their children and are just as entertaining. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 12, 2026
Saving the best for last
It was so much fun getting to read Astrid and Fredrik's love story. Hints about it are dropped throughout their children's stories that I have been curious to learn more about how their arrangement turned into the love they clearly have for each other in those books.
From the beginning, it's clear that Fredrik was going to fight his feelings for Astrid, hurting her along the way. Her vest for life, her general happiness, and her belief that Fredrik was more than the Ice Prince that the press claimed him to be made me root for her to break through his walls and made my eyes water when re-established his walls. Swimming with the dolphins and dancing at the festival showed who Fredrik really was.
I loved the epilogue that show Sophia, Alex, Amelia, and Max as children. The perfect Easter egg for fans of this series.
It was so much fun getting to read Astrid and Fredrik's love story. Hints about it are dropped throughout their children's stories that I have been curious to learn more about how their arrangement turned into the love they clearly have for each other in those books.
From the beginning, it's clear that Fredrik was going to fight his feelings for Astrid, hurting her along the way. Her vest for life, her general happiness, and her belief that Fredrik was more than the Ice Prince that the press claimed him to be made me root for her to break through his walls and made my eyes water when re-established his walls. Swimming with the dolphins and dancing at the festival showed who Fredrik really was.
I loved the epilogue that show Sophia, Alex, Amelia, and Max as children. The perfect Easter egg for fans of this series.
March 19, 2026
I loved getting to read this prequel novella to Kate O'Keeffe's Royally Kissed series. It made me smile so much. And it was fun getting to know Frederic and Astrid's story.
Astrid is a princess, but she's also the kind of girl who dances in the rain and doesn't care what people think of her. Sometimes that gets her into trouble, like when she accidentally ruins a tea party. But she's just so delightful. I really loved her character!
Frederic is known in the newspapers of his country as "The Ice Prince." And to be fair, that's how he comes across in public. But that's not who he really is, as Astrid finds out when she journeys to get engaged to him. I love the way he changes little by little, as a result of her personality and influence. That's one of my favorite parts of this book.
This is such a cute arranged romance novella. I loved it so much!
Astrid is a princess, but she's also the kind of girl who dances in the rain and doesn't care what people think of her. Sometimes that gets her into trouble, like when she accidentally ruins a tea party. But she's just so delightful. I really loved her character!
Frederic is known in the newspapers of his country as "The Ice Prince." And to be fair, that's how he comes across in public. But that's not who he really is, as Astrid finds out when she journeys to get engaged to him. I love the way he changes little by little, as a result of her personality and influence. That's one of my favorite parts of this book.
This is such a cute arranged romance novella. I loved it so much!
March 21, 2026
I loved Kate O'Keeffe's Royally Kissed series, so Royally Arranged was a fun way to go back to the beginning to the love story of King Frederic and Queen Astrid. Somewhat forced into a marriage of convenience in an effort to salvage both monarchies and their people, Frederic and Astrid are initially like oil and water. But as they get to know each other, the walls begin to come down and a lovely partnership forms and romance follows. I loved the characters, the plot, and the way these two brought out the best in each other. It was also interesting, after reading the whole series, to see the traits each of the siblings from each parent. I highly recommend this book and its predecessors for some royally good rom com fun!
Thank you to the author for gifting me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the author for gifting me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
March 11, 2026
I loved returning to the small kingdom of Ledonia, after having really enjoyed the other books of this series. This quick book is a standalone but also a prequel to the series, as a look-back on how “Mom & Dad” got together. In this story, King Frederic of Ledonia is just a stilted, grumpy and dutiful Prince. Princess Astrid of the tiny kingdom of Elkevik is a ray of sunshine, with romantic hopes. Their royal parents conclude that Ledonia and Elkevik could benefit from their children’s strategic engagement and wedding, even though this couple had only met once before as children. Their romance is an entertaining, well-written and clean royal trope, with dual points of view. Recommended! I received an advance copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 11, 2026
“That I hoped we’d lay eyes on one another and fall in love in an instant?
That I hoped we’d discover we’re soulmates, brought together by an arranged marriage but always destined for each other? That I’ve always had a thing for him and hoped it could grow into something more?”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Whoohoo, a prequel to the Royally Kissed Series! I love this series! Closed door romcom…Ice Prince/Sunny Princess…arranged marriage…forced time together…opposites attract!
Frederick & Astrid, both fulfilling their duty to save their countries. A business transaction never meaning to cross the lines into love. Can Astrid melt Fred’s heart? Find out March 12, 2026!
Thank you Kate O’Keeffe for the complimentary ARC. Review is based on my thoughts and opinions.
That I hoped we’d discover we’re soulmates, brought together by an arranged marriage but always destined for each other? That I’ve always had a thing for him and hoped it could grow into something more?”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Whoohoo, a prequel to the Royally Kissed Series! I love this series! Closed door romcom…Ice Prince/Sunny Princess…arranged marriage…forced time together…opposites attract!
Frederick & Astrid, both fulfilling their duty to save their countries. A business transaction never meaning to cross the lines into love. Can Astrid melt Fred’s heart? Find out March 12, 2026!
Thank you Kate O’Keeffe for the complimentary ARC. Review is based on my thoughts and opinions.
March 12, 2026
Oh how I loved Royally Arranged!!
I've read the entire Royally Kissed series, and this is the story that started it all! This book had it all for me, arranged marriage, opposites attract, grumpy and sunshine, and moments that will make you laugh out loud! Royally Arranged is Frederic and Astrid's story. Prince Frederic is an introvert and all about following procedures. Princess Astrid is an extrovert, very friendly, isn't afraid to get her hands dirty, and even talks too and names animals, complete opposites. (Think Princess Diana and Prince Charles) Definitely a must read!!!
Is a part of a series, but can be read alone, but you want to read the entire series! Thank you Kate for another wonderful read!
I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I've read the entire Royally Kissed series, and this is the story that started it all! This book had it all for me, arranged marriage, opposites attract, grumpy and sunshine, and moments that will make you laugh out loud! Royally Arranged is Frederic and Astrid's story. Prince Frederic is an introvert and all about following procedures. Princess Astrid is an extrovert, very friendly, isn't afraid to get her hands dirty, and even talks too and names animals, complete opposites. (Think Princess Diana and Prince Charles) Definitely a must read!!!
Is a part of a series, but can be read alone, but you want to read the entire series! Thank you Kate for another wonderful read!
I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
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