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The Sheikh's Marriage Proclamation
The only way to protect her is to declare their forbidden promise to the world. From USA TODAY bestselling author Annie West comes this enchanting tale of desert desire.Shielded by her enemyTempted by the forbidden…Fleeing a forced betrothal, Tara Michaels escapes across the border, landing in Sheikh Raif’s opulent palace. Their countries are enemies, and he’s bossy and proud—but this charismatic desert king is offering her a luxurious safe haven…Raif knows protecting Tara is risky, but he’s entranced by her beauty—and she stands up to him when others dare not. Yet once her identity as his guest becomes known, his final option is one he never thought he’d proclaiming Tara as his bride-to-be!From Harlequin Escape to exotic locations where passion knows no bounds.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2021
About the author
Annie West
931 books558 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Hello! I love writing passionate, intense love stories about sexy alpha men and the women who are their perfect match. Look out for my books with Harlequin (Presents) or Mills & Boon (Modern/Sexy) and for my indie stories, full of passion and intense emotion with a touch of glamour. My latest stories are my Hot Italian Nights series including 'Bound to the Italian Boss' June '17, 'The Italian's Bold Reckoning' July '17, 'At the Italian's Bidding' August '17 and 'Falling for the Brooding Italian' September '17.
Yes, I do like a dark, handsome hero!
You can catch up with my news at www.annie-west.com (where you can also sign up for my exclusive reader newsletter with giveaways and behind the scenes info). I'm on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/anniewest.au... and I adore hearing from readers. You can also contact me at annie(at)annie-west(dot)com
I live with my family at beautiful Lake Macquarie on the east Coast of Australia and my favourite things when not writing are good food, good company, great books, getting outside in nature and travel.
Bookwise, I'm a multi USA Today bestselling author with millions of books sold, in English as well as in lots of other languages. I've won the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award and the Romantic Book of the Year (Romance Writers of Australia). One of my favourite review quotes is from Romantic Times which said in its review of The Sheikh's Ransomed Bride 'This is what a love story could be.'.
Hello! I love writing passionate, intense love stories about sexy alpha men and the women who are their perfect match. Look out for my books with Harlequin (Presents) or Mills & Boon (Modern/Sexy) and for my indie stories, full of passion and intense emotion with a touch of glamour. My latest stories are my Hot Italian Nights series including 'Bound to the Italian Boss' June '17, 'The Italian's Bold Reckoning' July '17, 'At the Italian's Bidding' August '17 and 'Falling for the Brooding Italian' September '17.
Yes, I do like a dark, handsome hero!
You can catch up with my news at www.annie-west.com (where you can also sign up for my exclusive reader newsletter with giveaways and behind the scenes info). I'm on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/anniewest.au... and I adore hearing from readers. You can also contact me at annie(at)annie-west(dot)com
I live with my family at beautiful Lake Macquarie on the east Coast of Australia and my favourite things when not writing are good food, good company, great books, getting outside in nature and travel.
Bookwise, I'm a multi USA Today bestselling author with millions of books sold, in English as well as in lots of other languages. I've won the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award and the Romantic Book of the Year (Romance Writers of Australia). One of my favourite review quotes is from Romantic Times which said in its review of The Sheikh's Ransomed Bride 'This is what a love story could be.'.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 4, 2021
This is my Diary of an unsuccessful HPlandia vacation, that started off so well...
The carpet unspooled with a thud and an unexpected flurry and Raif found himself staring down at bare limbs, a tangle of dark hair and huge, staring eyes.
And that's the very dramatic scene where our MC's meet each other for the first time.
The heroine's wrap dress is also undone, so the H gets more than a luscious eyeful of gorgeous, voluptuous female.
Shapely calves and smooth thighs. Her breasts rose and fell beneath their scant crimson covering as she sucked in huge gasps of air. And still those eyes stared back at him.
Raif felt the impact of that stare somewhere near the base of his spine and deeper, in his gut.
The H stands there, looking cold, remote and unconcerned but the reader's aware that he's already starting to lust after the heroine...
This is the heroine, Tara:
Perhaps it was the ripe mouth that made her look so ravishing. She had full lips, slightly downturned at the corners. That should have made her appear disgruntled but instead created a sultry look.
This is the H Raif:
Yet despite his arrogance and her occasional doubts he was kind, considerate and far too appealing.
And I was thoroughly enjoying this novel, revelling in this tale of the hot H saving the beautiful damsel in distress heroine from her dastardly, disgusting cousin, Fuad, who is trying to force her to marry him.
I couldn't believe my luck ! I thought I was actually gonna get three 4 star HP's in a row !
Then it all started to unravel, but I forced myself to finish because I want to add this book to my Goodreads Challenge...
Unfortunately these are the reasons why things went downhill soon:
🤦 The heroine. The heroine. The heroine. Firstly, she initiated the first sex scene; she kinda threw herself at the H. I prefer it when the H does the chasing.
She's throwing herself at him:
‘No. Please.’ She drew a deep breath then expelled it. ‘Can’t I stay?’
He's trying hard to do the right thing, even though he wants her:
‘No, you can’t. We’ll talk in the morning.’ To reinforce the dismissal, not least to his own wayward body, he crossed his arms over his chest. ‘Go to bed, Tara. I don’t want you here.’
The sex scene was great, but I still felt she was too desperate.
🤦 Secondly she started to get on my nerves, because she seemed to be blowing everything out of proportion. This guy was an awesome, sweet, chivalrous, kind, thoughtful and wonderful H and this woman kept throwing her bullshit tantrums when he was doing everything within his power to save her dumbass. Plus her passive aggressive comments were driving me nuts.
🤦 It was exactly at the 69% marker that I stopped enjoying the book and kept hoping it would end soon.
🤦 Conversations started to bore me, because it seemed like they kept talking about the same stuff repeatedly. If I'm wrong, then my boredom and annoyance will probably explain why I formed this impression.
🤦 And this part seemed like a bit of contrived plot development on the author's part: the heroine started acting like an ungrateful, petty witch just because the H asked her to stay inside the palace, for her own safety, while he attended a funeral. She threw a tantrum in front of the courtiers. Then she insulted the H after he'd rushed back to see her, sneered at his proposal of marriage, accused him of stupid stuff she knows he's not guilty of just because she's all up her own ass and is incapable of looking at things from his perspective. Then she dumped him cruelly and flounced out. There's only one genre where I enjoy stupid heroines disregarding warnings for their own safety and that's the horror genre; at least there, I get to smile with sick glee when the idiot gets impaled on a rusty machete by Jason Voorhees....
🤦 I don't know why the author felt the need to give this heroine such a personality transplant. The only theory I can devise is that she needed to create additional conflict because the story was flatlining after the 69% point. I'd really liked this heroine, when the story began and I was 💯 rooting for her, until she started to overdose on the needless bitchery and donkey douche-hag pettiness.
🤦 If it's one thing I hate, it's the waste of a damned good man. Obviously, they sorted things out and got their happy ever after. But it didn't make up for the ultra annoying final quarter of the story, where I was cussing under my breath and praying for Fuad to send an assassin to shoot this ungratefulbitch lady ! This H needed a sweet Lynne Graham heroine.
🤦 I feel cheated. I hate when it seems like an author has used stupid, weakly contrived reasons to accelerate conflict. And this is what it seemed like, in the final quarter of the novel.
🤦 The worst part is that the H is the one who chased after her in the UK and begged for another chance.
🤦 By this point, I'd already lost whatever minimal emotional connection I'd developed to these MC's and their story.
The epilogue was average. It was set on their wedding day.
Safety: No OM, no OW, the heroine's a virgin, the H isn't a manwhore and both MC's are celibate during their short separation.
The carpet unspooled with a thud and an unexpected flurry and Raif found himself staring down at bare limbs, a tangle of dark hair and huge, staring eyes.
And that's the very dramatic scene where our MC's meet each other for the first time.
The heroine's wrap dress is also undone, so the H gets more than a luscious eyeful of gorgeous, voluptuous female.
Shapely calves and smooth thighs. Her breasts rose and fell beneath their scant crimson covering as she sucked in huge gasps of air. And still those eyes stared back at him.
Raif felt the impact of that stare somewhere near the base of his spine and deeper, in his gut.
The H stands there, looking cold, remote and unconcerned but the reader's aware that he's already starting to lust after the heroine...
This is the heroine, Tara:
Perhaps it was the ripe mouth that made her look so ravishing. She had full lips, slightly downturned at the corners. That should have made her appear disgruntled but instead created a sultry look.
This is the H Raif:
Yet despite his arrogance and her occasional doubts he was kind, considerate and far too appealing.
And I was thoroughly enjoying this novel, revelling in this tale of the hot H saving the beautiful damsel in distress heroine from her dastardly, disgusting cousin, Fuad, who is trying to force her to marry him.
I couldn't believe my luck ! I thought I was actually gonna get three 4 star HP's in a row !
Then it all started to unravel, but I forced myself to finish because I want to add this book to my Goodreads Challenge...
Unfortunately these are the reasons why things went downhill soon:
🤦 The heroine. The heroine. The heroine. Firstly, she initiated the first sex scene; she kinda threw herself at the H. I prefer it when the H does the chasing.
She's throwing herself at him:
‘No. Please.’ She drew a deep breath then expelled it. ‘Can’t I stay?’
He's trying hard to do the right thing, even though he wants her:
‘No, you can’t. We’ll talk in the morning.’ To reinforce the dismissal, not least to his own wayward body, he crossed his arms over his chest. ‘Go to bed, Tara. I don’t want you here.’
The sex scene was great, but I still felt she was too desperate.
🤦 Secondly she started to get on my nerves, because she seemed to be blowing everything out of proportion. This guy was an awesome, sweet, chivalrous, kind, thoughtful and wonderful H and this woman kept throwing her bullshit tantrums when he was doing everything within his power to save her dumbass. Plus her passive aggressive comments were driving me nuts.
🤦 It was exactly at the 69% marker that I stopped enjoying the book and kept hoping it would end soon.
🤦 Conversations started to bore me, because it seemed like they kept talking about the same stuff repeatedly. If I'm wrong, then my boredom and annoyance will probably explain why I formed this impression.
🤦 And this part seemed like a bit of contrived plot development on the author's part: the heroine started acting like an ungrateful, petty witch just because the H asked her to stay inside the palace, for her own safety, while he attended a funeral. She threw a tantrum in front of the courtiers. Then she insulted the H after he'd rushed back to see her, sneered at his proposal of marriage, accused him of stupid stuff she knows he's not guilty of just because she's all up her own ass and is incapable of looking at things from his perspective. Then she dumped him cruelly and flounced out. There's only one genre where I enjoy stupid heroines disregarding warnings for their own safety and that's the horror genre; at least there, I get to smile with sick glee when the idiot gets impaled on a rusty machete by Jason Voorhees....
🤦 I don't know why the author felt the need to give this heroine such a personality transplant. The only theory I can devise is that she needed to create additional conflict because the story was flatlining after the 69% point. I'd really liked this heroine, when the story began and I was 💯 rooting for her, until she started to overdose on the needless bitchery and donkey douche-hag pettiness.
🤦 If it's one thing I hate, it's the waste of a damned good man. Obviously, they sorted things out and got their happy ever after. But it didn't make up for the ultra annoying final quarter of the story, where I was cussing under my breath and praying for Fuad to send an assassin to shoot this ungrateful
🤦 I feel cheated. I hate when it seems like an author has used stupid, weakly contrived reasons to accelerate conflict. And this is what it seemed like, in the final quarter of the novel.
🤦 The worst part is that the H is the one who chased after her in the UK and begged for another chance.
🤦 By this point, I'd already lost whatever minimal emotional connection I'd developed to these MC's and their story.
The epilogue was average. It was set on their wedding day.
Safety: No OM, no OW, the heroine's a virgin, the H isn't a manwhore and both MC's are celibate during their short separation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2021
I should have listened Carmen, it was boring and I skimmed most of it. 🤦🏻♀️
January 30, 2021
I love a good Sheikh story and Annie West does them beautifully, I loved Raif and Tara’s story from page one, Annie West definitely knows how to put sizzle and sensual together in a page turner. Tara is desperate to get back to London safely never planning on literally falling into a palace and Raif’s arms, this one is a must read.
Tara Michaels is fleeing her mother’s country Dhalkuri, she is not going to be forced into a marriage, this is her only chance to get away but things don’t turn out the way she thought they would when she ends up in Nahrat and meeting the Sheikh. The two countries are enemies and it seems that Tara has left one domineering male to find herself with another one but Raif is offering safety in the palace, but will her heart be safe around Raif?
Raif was expecting a delivery, a present for his Aunt but was not expecting the bonus that came with it in the shape of a very beautiful woman, a woman he feels drawn to instantly and when he learns who she is, he knows that he must offer her a safe place. Tara is like no woman he has ever known she is feisty and caring and she stands up to him and when his people know she is there he must make her his bride-to-be.
Raif and Tara set the lights blazing in the palace with the electrical pull they have, oh my what a story, what a hero and heroine together they rock, in bed and out of bed, their personality’s push each other as their love grows stronger everyday they spend together. It does take them a bit too finally both come to the realization that their love is there and that life together is going to be the best. Annie West another awesome story, another hero I loved so much and the best heroine, thank you so much for hours of reading pleasure. This is one that I highly recommend.
Thank you to the author for my copy to read and review.
Tara Michaels is fleeing her mother’s country Dhalkuri, she is not going to be forced into a marriage, this is her only chance to get away but things don’t turn out the way she thought they would when she ends up in Nahrat and meeting the Sheikh. The two countries are enemies and it seems that Tara has left one domineering male to find herself with another one but Raif is offering safety in the palace, but will her heart be safe around Raif?
Raif was expecting a delivery, a present for his Aunt but was not expecting the bonus that came with it in the shape of a very beautiful woman, a woman he feels drawn to instantly and when he learns who she is, he knows that he must offer her a safe place. Tara is like no woman he has ever known she is feisty and caring and she stands up to him and when his people know she is there he must make her his bride-to-be.
Raif and Tara set the lights blazing in the palace with the electrical pull they have, oh my what a story, what a hero and heroine together they rock, in bed and out of bed, their personality’s push each other as their love grows stronger everyday they spend together. It does take them a bit too finally both come to the realization that their love is there and that life together is going to be the best. Annie West another awesome story, another hero I loved so much and the best heroine, thank you so much for hours of reading pleasure. This is one that I highly recommend.
Thank you to the author for my copy to read and review.
May 24, 2021
A sweet, passionate, low angst love story but for some reason hero stole my heart. Maybe because he was so good to heroine and very honorable. Heroine was headstrong and I didn’t like her action in one scene but still she matched him.
Safe and recommended.
Safe and recommended.
February 1, 2021
THIS. BOOK. WAS. FANTASTIC.
The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation blew me away with its enthralling storyline and its swoony hero and fabulous heroine. One of the best hero/heroines coupling I've read in a long time. I have read numerous beautiful stories from Annie West over a number of years and I can’t believe that she could surpass herself, but she has with this latest marvellous book.
Annie has mastered the art of weaving together an intricate storyline that grabs the reader’s attention right from the first page. Be prepared to forgo sleep because you won’t want to put this book down as it is full of romance, action, secrets, and a heart stopping ending that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Annie West does an impeccable job with character development. Tara Michaels is battling to stay safe after the death of her beloved mother. Her cousin, Fuad of Dhalkur is determined to force her to marry him for her fortune, but she manages to escape in an Anthony and Cleopatra scheme. Unknowingly, she arrives in front of Sheikh Raif ibn Ansar of Nahrat and there is an instant spark of electricity between them that continues to grow after Raif promises to keep her safe for the time being.
Tara is both a vulnerable & strong heroine and I couldn’t help but admire her resilience. The path to healing both from the death of her mother and the abuse from her cousin Prince Fuad was not an easy one and I loved how the Annie let Raif work his magic in helping Tara through this. I am officially claiming Sheik Raif as my book boyfriend. He is just scrumptious, and I love his protective nature & kind-hearted soul. These two bring out the best in each other and the connection between the two of them was palpable throughout the book
This is a romance that you can completely lose yourself in. The writing is impeccable. The storyline is seductive, angsty, and gripping. The characters will blow your mind! Everything about this book screams BESTSELLER! Oh, and the thing that pulled me in, the cover, is incredibly beautiful! It speaks exactly to the theme of the story. I could go on and on about these characters and their turbulent journey, but let’s face it, you don’t have time! You need to stop whatever it is that you're doing and scoop this GEM up! Don’t waste another minute in your reality and sink yourself into the beauty that is Annie West’s world.
The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation blew me away with its enthralling storyline and its swoony hero and fabulous heroine. One of the best hero/heroines coupling I've read in a long time. I have read numerous beautiful stories from Annie West over a number of years and I can’t believe that she could surpass herself, but she has with this latest marvellous book.
Annie has mastered the art of weaving together an intricate storyline that grabs the reader’s attention right from the first page. Be prepared to forgo sleep because you won’t want to put this book down as it is full of romance, action, secrets, and a heart stopping ending that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Annie West does an impeccable job with character development. Tara Michaels is battling to stay safe after the death of her beloved mother. Her cousin, Fuad of Dhalkur is determined to force her to marry him for her fortune, but she manages to escape in an Anthony and Cleopatra scheme. Unknowingly, she arrives in front of Sheikh Raif ibn Ansar of Nahrat and there is an instant spark of electricity between them that continues to grow after Raif promises to keep her safe for the time being.
Tara is both a vulnerable & strong heroine and I couldn’t help but admire her resilience. The path to healing both from the death of her mother and the abuse from her cousin Prince Fuad was not an easy one and I loved how the Annie let Raif work his magic in helping Tara through this. I am officially claiming Sheik Raif as my book boyfriend. He is just scrumptious, and I love his protective nature & kind-hearted soul. These two bring out the best in each other and the connection between the two of them was palpable throughout the book
This is a romance that you can completely lose yourself in. The writing is impeccable. The storyline is seductive, angsty, and gripping. The characters will blow your mind! Everything about this book screams BESTSELLER! Oh, and the thing that pulled me in, the cover, is incredibly beautiful! It speaks exactly to the theme of the story. I could go on and on about these characters and their turbulent journey, but let’s face it, you don’t have time! You need to stop whatever it is that you're doing and scoop this GEM up! Don’t waste another minute in your reality and sink yourself into the beauty that is Annie West’s world.
November 20, 2022
This book had such potential but the heroine's childish behaviour let it down. I love Annie West, but this one was a miss.
January 25, 2021
This is a high stakes Sheikh romance, with Raif, the Sheikh of Nahrat, a progessive and rather majestic figure. Heroine Tara Michaels is also royal, the granddaughter of the previous Sheikh from a neighbouring country Dhalkur. Unfortunately power has passed from her grandfather to her desperately ailing uncle, and her rather cruel eldest cousin Fuad is expected to be crowned the next Sheikh. To escape his evil clutches Tara smuggles herself into Nahrat, and tumbles out of a rolled carpet at Raif's feet. A wonderful scene, and this tempestuous romance continues from there. Bravo Annie West, what a stunner.
January 10, 2021
I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to read an advanced copy of The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation.
I always love a good Sheikh Romance and Tara and Raif’s story does not disappoint.
Tara with the help of her mother’s trusted friend is fleeing Dhalkur the country of her Mother’s birth fearful of the horrible fate that awaits her if she stays, the plan is to cross the border into the neighbouring country Nahrat get out of the back of the truck and then disappear …. Things don’t quite go as planned and instead of being just past the border when the truck is stopped Tara is taken from the truck and to her horror finds herself unceremoniously dumped from her hiding place in an expensive carpet right at the feet of Raif the reigning Sheikh of Nahrat in the Royal Audience Chamber a big surprise for all concerned!!!!
Raif is astounded by the sight of this small dark haired women emerging in a tangled rush of arms and legs and falling at his feet from the rolled up carpet and can’t believe the immediate impact that she has on him, he is horrified as Tara’s story unfolds how she was being held prisoner by her Fuad her horrible cruel grasping adopted cousin and (probably the next Sheik when her uncle dies) has decided to force her to marry him so that he can have her and take control of the inheritance from her mother a parcel of land that holds riches he will use to increase his own personal wealth and not use for the good of his country.
Tara is frightened of how Raif will respond to her plight will he be sympathetic or will her send her back to her cousin to avoid any political repercussions. So their story begins
This beautifully written story has everything I love humour, drama, exotic locations that sound so opulent and amazing you just want to go and spend time at the oasis and experience them for yourself and emotional scenes where you can’t help but become totally invested in the characters and their story…….
Tara: A heroine who is not only feisty and unwilling to be controlled by any-one, she learns that there are times when people are only trying to protect you, not control you it is a matter of understanding the difference and learning how to trust others as well as yourself.
Raif: A hero who is strong, sometimes arrogant but will protect his people and country with his life, he learns that love doesn’t have to make you weak but with the right person it can make you stronger and you can protect without taking control.
Thank you Annie for the opportunity to read The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation
Congratulations Annie another fabulous book that I couldn’t put it down till I finished it.
Annie West at her best!!!!
Will Salim get a story of his own.. you know how I love related books
I always love a good Sheikh Romance and Tara and Raif’s story does not disappoint.
Tara with the help of her mother’s trusted friend is fleeing Dhalkur the country of her Mother’s birth fearful of the horrible fate that awaits her if she stays, the plan is to cross the border into the neighbouring country Nahrat get out of the back of the truck and then disappear …. Things don’t quite go as planned and instead of being just past the border when the truck is stopped Tara is taken from the truck and to her horror finds herself unceremoniously dumped from her hiding place in an expensive carpet right at the feet of Raif the reigning Sheikh of Nahrat in the Royal Audience Chamber a big surprise for all concerned!!!!
Raif is astounded by the sight of this small dark haired women emerging in a tangled rush of arms and legs and falling at his feet from the rolled up carpet and can’t believe the immediate impact that she has on him, he is horrified as Tara’s story unfolds how she was being held prisoner by her Fuad her horrible cruel grasping adopted cousin and (probably the next Sheik when her uncle dies) has decided to force her to marry him so that he can have her and take control of the inheritance from her mother a parcel of land that holds riches he will use to increase his own personal wealth and not use for the good of his country.
Tara is frightened of how Raif will respond to her plight will he be sympathetic or will her send her back to her cousin to avoid any political repercussions. So their story begins
This beautifully written story has everything I love humour, drama, exotic locations that sound so opulent and amazing you just want to go and spend time at the oasis and experience them for yourself and emotional scenes where you can’t help but become totally invested in the characters and their story…….
Tara: A heroine who is not only feisty and unwilling to be controlled by any-one, she learns that there are times when people are only trying to protect you, not control you it is a matter of understanding the difference and learning how to trust others as well as yourself.
Raif: A hero who is strong, sometimes arrogant but will protect his people and country with his life, he learns that love doesn’t have to make you weak but with the right person it can make you stronger and you can protect without taking control.
Thank you Annie for the opportunity to read The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation
Congratulations Annie another fabulous book that I couldn’t put it down till I finished it.
Annie West at her best!!!!
Will Salim get a story of his own.. you know how I love related books
February 4, 2021
I love this book. Its has a fantastic story line Raif and Tara are perfect together. I have to say I have never read a bad book from Annie West. She writes amazing stories, that will stay with you.
January 1, 2021
For some reason I have a soft spot for Sheikh romances. Maybe it’s the thought of oases in the middle of a hot desert {and there’s one in this novel!!} or those old Valentino movies or indeed, the novels his Sheikh movies were based on: rather risqué tomes from the freewheeling 1920s by Edith Maude Hull.
The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation {why do they have such longwinded titles??} begins with Tara Michaels being smuggled out of Dhalkur into the neighbouring country of Nahrat. The two countries are enemies but Tara would risk anything to escape the clutches of her ruthless cousin, Fuad. After her mother’s death, Fuad has tricked Tara into leaving London and returning to Dhalkur. He wants the land she has inherited and will do anything to get it, including forcing her to marry him. Yunis, a friend of her mother’s has secured Tara in a carpet and driven over the border, where he unravels her at the feet of Sheikh Raif, a rather dishy looking leader indeed. From such promising beginnings the romance prospers.
Two attractive and caring protagonists, a baddie you get to boo at {and who gets his comeuppance}, a story set in an exotic land amidst opulence, fantastic jewels and romance. The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation is my favourite kind of romance, one that takes me away from my reality, and makes me smile. Misunderstandings. A foiled kidnapping. Love in an oasis. What more could a romance reader ask for??
Thanks to Annie West for this advanced reading copy. It fit perfectly into those lazy, nothing days between Christmas and New Year. Cups of tea, chocolates, a ceiling fan, and a romance. Perfect!
The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation is published by Mills & Boon, Harlequin, in February 2021.
The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation {why do they have such longwinded titles??} begins with Tara Michaels being smuggled out of Dhalkur into the neighbouring country of Nahrat. The two countries are enemies but Tara would risk anything to escape the clutches of her ruthless cousin, Fuad. After her mother’s death, Fuad has tricked Tara into leaving London and returning to Dhalkur. He wants the land she has inherited and will do anything to get it, including forcing her to marry him. Yunis, a friend of her mother’s has secured Tara in a carpet and driven over the border, where he unravels her at the feet of Sheikh Raif, a rather dishy looking leader indeed. From such promising beginnings the romance prospers.
Two attractive and caring protagonists, a baddie you get to boo at {and who gets his comeuppance}, a story set in an exotic land amidst opulence, fantastic jewels and romance. The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation is my favourite kind of romance, one that takes me away from my reality, and makes me smile. Misunderstandings. A foiled kidnapping. Love in an oasis. What more could a romance reader ask for??
Thanks to Annie West for this advanced reading copy. It fit perfectly into those lazy, nothing days between Christmas and New Year. Cups of tea, chocolates, a ceiling fan, and a romance. Perfect!
The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation is published by Mills & Boon, Harlequin, in February 2021.
March 25, 2021
Major Plot spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk
The story started off with an immediate bang that made me immediately intrigued and want to continue reading because it jumped right into the action. I don’t think I have ever read where a heroine willingly smuggles herself over the border, knowing she was doing so illegally in order to escape a horrible situation that would have be worse to death, but that was what happened here as Tara tried to escape her cousin by smuggling herself in a truck in order to cross the border of an “enemy” country right next door in order to escape her adoptive, lecherous cousin, who wanted the throne. The way it was written just took me right there as I experienced along with her the fear, dread, and the discomfort of hiding in this bag, which was preferable to what she was escaping. It was really well done in showing how the high the stakes it was for her.
Admittedly when I first read the synopsis, I thought this was very much going to be an enemies to lovers type of the story since Raif and Tara’s countries weren’t exactly on the best terms. I thought there was going to be a lot of conflict and tension there just from that point of view, though there was friction and tension between them it was more of their attraction to one another than an actual “enemy” type of situation. I wasn’t mad about it because they had so much freaking chemistry that just leap off the page that I didn’t need the heightened enemy trope to be totally into their love story. Their first encounter was funny and freaking delicious. The bantering they did in that scene was so incredible I knew right away that I was going to love their love story. It was better because of it not being an enemy type of situation because of how Raif wanted to help her.
The build up between them was absolutely perfect, and I loved every single second. It was a steady, slow build that really sizzled the pages to perfection. I loved the pacing of it. It just kept growing and growing until the time they finally shared their first kiss I was ready for it. I was wanting it just like Raif and Tara were waiting for it. But beyond that they developed a nice partnership and friendship between them as they got to know each other, rely on each other, and help other along the way. It was beautiful to see that type of foundation set while having all this sexual chemistry bubbling in the background. It was what kept my interest in their romance alive. There really wasn’t a lot of conflict between the two of them aside from denying their passion fore each other and the evil cousin, which was nice because there the could develop a really nice relationship. I loved that. I loved it so much. I was very much into it and very invested in them as a couple.
I have to say that Annie West knows how to write a first time oasis scene. I have read a lot of them over the course of her books, and Annie just knows how to hit the spot and balance the sexiness with the tenderness and the emotional stuff. Raif and Tara’s first time scene was not exception. It was steamy. It was intimate. It showed off the intense connection they had both physically and emotionally. The setting was described in great detail giving off those romantic vibes that I love for first time scenes. It was so sweet, so lovely, and tender, making me swoon on so many different levels. It was a beautiful, satisfying moment between them especially after all that build up that had been growing over the course of the book. I loved that Tara was the one that initiated it because she wanted that special connection and intimacy with him. It was full of affection and love and just all the goodness that I wanted from their first time scene.
Once they basked in their passion, they really became closer and more intimate with every moment they spent together. The engaged in a lot of loving making scenes, but only because they wanted that closeness between them because they couldn’t stand to be apart for too long. They needed each other. They loved each other. It just made me so happy whenever they spent time together. It really showed how their love grew and developed as they embraced what was happening between them. I loved that so much.
I freaking fell in love with Raif. He made me swoon so many times throughout the course of the story. He was a very alpha male type of character, yet he wasn’t that mean jerky type that can sometimes be shown with the alpha male archetype. He was funny. He was sweet. He provided support when Tara needed. He was protective. He treated her like his princess even before they gave into their passions. He thought of her first and did everything in his power to show that he cared about her feelings. He really paid attention to her likes and dislikes. I loved how the treated her with respect and caring. I loved how he goaded her. His flirting was spectacular when they had their bantered filled moments. He really had a heart of gold that made me feel all warm and fuzzy about him. He was just such special guy altogether. I loved him so much.
The only thing that bothered me was the ending. I think it added an unnecessary bit of conflict and tension between Tara and Raif. I would preferred that it didn’t happen like that. I didn’t care for Tara’s stubbornness over her believing that Raif for having an ulterior motive for offering marriage from my point of view it was very clear that he was in love with her even if he hadn’t said the words yet. It just broke my heart to see a couple that were clearly in love with each other to have final obstacle that I didn’t want or need.
But despite the fact that I was not a fan of that part of the story, the entire book as a whole was just really amazing that I just couldn’t help giving this a five stars. It was action packed. It was romantic. It was sweet. There were tender moments between Tara and Raif that I absolutely loved and adored. There was great intimacy building. It was sexy as the tension between them build and build until finally passion exploded. I loved the pacing and build up of their relationship. I loved the slow burn aspect that just kept on burning until the last page. I was freaking in love with Raif with every passing moments as he became the seductive protector that just made me absolutely swoon. He was an amazing alpha hero without being a totally hurtful jerk towards Tara. Just the way they related and interacted with each other was just so, so good. I loved it so much. I will definitely be reading this again because I want to go back on the romantic adventure between Raif and Tara once more.
Highly recommended for Presents lovers, Annie West lovers, and lovers of slow burn, sweet yet sexy romances that love going on a grand romantic journey along with the characters. This one would be for you.
The story started off with an immediate bang that made me immediately intrigued and want to continue reading because it jumped right into the action. I don’t think I have ever read where a heroine willingly smuggles herself over the border, knowing she was doing so illegally in order to escape a horrible situation that would have be worse to death, but that was what happened here as Tara tried to escape her cousin by smuggling herself in a truck in order to cross the border of an “enemy” country right next door in order to escape her adoptive, lecherous cousin, who wanted the throne. The way it was written just took me right there as I experienced along with her the fear, dread, and the discomfort of hiding in this bag, which was preferable to what she was escaping. It was really well done in showing how the high the stakes it was for her.
Admittedly when I first read the synopsis, I thought this was very much going to be an enemies to lovers type of the story since Raif and Tara’s countries weren’t exactly on the best terms. I thought there was going to be a lot of conflict and tension there just from that point of view, though there was friction and tension between them it was more of their attraction to one another than an actual “enemy” type of situation. I wasn’t mad about it because they had so much freaking chemistry that just leap off the page that I didn’t need the heightened enemy trope to be totally into their love story. Their first encounter was funny and freaking delicious. The bantering they did in that scene was so incredible I knew right away that I was going to love their love story. It was better because of it not being an enemy type of situation because of how Raif wanted to help her.
The build up between them was absolutely perfect, and I loved every single second. It was a steady, slow build that really sizzled the pages to perfection. I loved the pacing of it. It just kept growing and growing until the time they finally shared their first kiss I was ready for it. I was wanting it just like Raif and Tara were waiting for it. But beyond that they developed a nice partnership and friendship between them as they got to know each other, rely on each other, and help other along the way. It was beautiful to see that type of foundation set while having all this sexual chemistry bubbling in the background. It was what kept my interest in their romance alive. There really wasn’t a lot of conflict between the two of them aside from denying their passion fore each other and the evil cousin, which was nice because there the could develop a really nice relationship. I loved that. I loved it so much. I was very much into it and very invested in them as a couple.
I have to say that Annie West knows how to write a first time oasis scene. I have read a lot of them over the course of her books, and Annie just knows how to hit the spot and balance the sexiness with the tenderness and the emotional stuff. Raif and Tara’s first time scene was not exception. It was steamy. It was intimate. It showed off the intense connection they had both physically and emotionally. The setting was described in great detail giving off those romantic vibes that I love for first time scenes. It was so sweet, so lovely, and tender, making me swoon on so many different levels. It was a beautiful, satisfying moment between them especially after all that build up that had been growing over the course of the book. I loved that Tara was the one that initiated it because she wanted that special connection and intimacy with him. It was full of affection and love and just all the goodness that I wanted from their first time scene.
Once they basked in their passion, they really became closer and more intimate with every moment they spent together. The engaged in a lot of loving making scenes, but only because they wanted that closeness between them because they couldn’t stand to be apart for too long. They needed each other. They loved each other. It just made me so happy whenever they spent time together. It really showed how their love grew and developed as they embraced what was happening between them. I loved that so much.
I freaking fell in love with Raif. He made me swoon so many times throughout the course of the story. He was a very alpha male type of character, yet he wasn’t that mean jerky type that can sometimes be shown with the alpha male archetype. He was funny. He was sweet. He provided support when Tara needed. He was protective. He treated her like his princess even before they gave into their passions. He thought of her first and did everything in his power to show that he cared about her feelings. He really paid attention to her likes and dislikes. I loved how the treated her with respect and caring. I loved how he goaded her. His flirting was spectacular when they had their bantered filled moments. He really had a heart of gold that made me feel all warm and fuzzy about him. He was just such special guy altogether. I loved him so much.
The only thing that bothered me was the ending. I think it added an unnecessary bit of conflict and tension between Tara and Raif. I would preferred that it didn’t happen like that. I didn’t care for Tara’s stubbornness over her believing that Raif for having an ulterior motive for offering marriage from my point of view it was very clear that he was in love with her even if he hadn’t said the words yet. It just broke my heart to see a couple that were clearly in love with each other to have final obstacle that I didn’t want or need.
But despite the fact that I was not a fan of that part of the story, the entire book as a whole was just really amazing that I just couldn’t help giving this a five stars. It was action packed. It was romantic. It was sweet. There were tender moments between Tara and Raif that I absolutely loved and adored. There was great intimacy building. It was sexy as the tension between them build and build until finally passion exploded. I loved the pacing and build up of their relationship. I loved the slow burn aspect that just kept on burning until the last page. I was freaking in love with Raif with every passing moments as he became the seductive protector that just made me absolutely swoon. He was an amazing alpha hero without being a totally hurtful jerk towards Tara. Just the way they related and interacted with each other was just so, so good. I loved it so much. I will definitely be reading this again because I want to go back on the romantic adventure between Raif and Tara once more.
Highly recommended for Presents lovers, Annie West lovers, and lovers of slow burn, sweet yet sexy romances that love going on a grand romantic journey along with the characters. This one would be for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this. I don't read many Harlequin romances, but I can't go past an Annie West tale.
This was an entertaining read which kept me up past my bedtime as I wanted to know how the drama all played out.
Tara our heroine is feisty and stubborn but caring and innocent. Raif our hero is charismatic, arrogant but also caring and compassionate.
I loved these two together both clearly out of their comfort zones, both with different ideas of what the future holds.
When Raif agrees to keep Tara safe from her cousin, you know where it's going to lead, but the journey was entertaining and romantic.
Thanks to Annie West for a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This was an entertaining read which kept me up past my bedtime as I wanted to know how the drama all played out.
Tara our heroine is feisty and stubborn but caring and innocent. Raif our hero is charismatic, arrogant but also caring and compassionate.
I loved these two together both clearly out of their comfort zones, both with different ideas of what the future holds.
When Raif agrees to keep Tara safe from her cousin, you know where it's going to lead, but the journey was entertaining and romantic.
Thanks to Annie West for a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
not-for-me
February 5, 2021Tempted by the forbidden…
Fleeing a forced betrothal, Tara Michaels escapes across the border, landing in Sheikh Raif’s opulent palace. Their countries are enemies, and he’s bossy and proud—but this charismatic desert king is offering her a luxurious safe haven…
Raif knows protecting Tara is risky, but he’s entranced by her beauty—and she stands up to him when others dare not. Yet once her identity as his guest becomes known, his final option is one he never thought he’d take: proclaiming Tara as his bride-to-be!
Fleeing a forced betrothal, Tara Michaels escapes across the border, landing in Sheikh Raif’s opulent palace. Their countries are enemies, and he’s bossy and proud—but this charismatic desert king is offering her a luxurious safe haven…
Raif knows protecting Tara is risky, but he’s entranced by her beauty—and she stands up to him when others dare not. Yet once her identity as his guest becomes known, his final option is one he never thought he’d take: proclaiming Tara as his bride-to-be!
Read
October 22, 2024Would have worked better as a thriller where the heroine’s schizophrenia was on purpose and part of the plot. A lot of conflicting parts that just seem like lazy writing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2021
The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation by Annie West was exciting, had all the feels and I couldn’t put it down.
Dramatic opening chapter had me on the edge of my seat. Escaping her homeland, Tara stealthily plans to return to England. Only things go awry when she’s literally rolled out to meet the neighbouring Sheikh Raif. Tara grabs onto Raif’s offer of protection with everything she has while her replacement passport is organized.
When Tara inadvertently reveals to the world her location Raif’s status as Sheikh is hands down portrayed magnificently. Both characters are extremely likeable and as per Annie’s West incredible skill – they are always put in exciting situations they need to resolve; the dialogue is witty and the locations are described to perfection. The plot is exciting and the story flowed like beautiful golden sands though my fingers.
Danger lurks every corner… from Tara’s daring escape from her country to her surprise reveal to Raif. From the threatening and dangerous relatives to the attempted kidnap in the desert. Passion, excitement and heartfelt moments can be found in abundance in The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation. The attraction is immediate for Raif and Tara and their relationship entwines wonderfully with the exciting plot which is full of danger and heart stopping moments.
Annie West writes a Sheikh like no other and I absolutely loved this story.
Dramatic opening chapter had me on the edge of my seat. Escaping her homeland, Tara stealthily plans to return to England. Only things go awry when she’s literally rolled out to meet the neighbouring Sheikh Raif. Tara grabs onto Raif’s offer of protection with everything she has while her replacement passport is organized.
When Tara inadvertently reveals to the world her location Raif’s status as Sheikh is hands down portrayed magnificently. Both characters are extremely likeable and as per Annie’s West incredible skill – they are always put in exciting situations they need to resolve; the dialogue is witty and the locations are described to perfection. The plot is exciting and the story flowed like beautiful golden sands though my fingers.
Danger lurks every corner… from Tara’s daring escape from her country to her surprise reveal to Raif. From the threatening and dangerous relatives to the attempted kidnap in the desert. Passion, excitement and heartfelt moments can be found in abundance in The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation. The attraction is immediate for Raif and Tara and their relationship entwines wonderfully with the exciting plot which is full of danger and heart stopping moments.
Annie West writes a Sheikh like no other and I absolutely loved this story.
February 17, 2021
This book has been a true delight to read. Elegantly written, it is sleek and sexy both in terms of its hero and heroine and in terms of the exotic location. The story largely takes place in the palace of Sheikh Raif ibn Ansar Of Nahrat, the country to which Tara Michaels has had herself smuggled in a bid to escape her cousin, who has designs on both her body and her wealth.
The attraction between Tara and Raif is immediate and palpable. I loved Tara’s reaction to Raif’s voice, “It trawled dark, deep and dangerous through her middle, like a velvet ribbon wound around metal.” This is just one example of the superb imagery scattered through this book.
Despite the sensual pull, there’s plenty of push as well. Raif is a sheikh, accustomed to having his commands obeyed and his every desire met. Tara is an independent woman also accustomed to having her own way and strongly opposed to being told what to do, no matter who is doing the telling. Heads butted and sparks flew between these two, making for a very entertaining story. It’s quite clear that author Annie West enjoyed writing this book at least as much as I’ve enjoyed reading it.
The attraction between Tara and Raif is immediate and palpable. I loved Tara’s reaction to Raif’s voice, “It trawled dark, deep and dangerous through her middle, like a velvet ribbon wound around metal.” This is just one example of the superb imagery scattered through this book.
Despite the sensual pull, there’s plenty of push as well. Raif is a sheikh, accustomed to having his commands obeyed and his every desire met. Tara is an independent woman also accustomed to having her own way and strongly opposed to being told what to do, no matter who is doing the telling. Heads butted and sparks flew between these two, making for a very entertaining story. It’s quite clear that author Annie West enjoyed writing this book at least as much as I’ve enjoyed reading it.
September 5, 2022
This is a standalone book.
Raif is the Sheikh of Nahrat, A small but wealthy land he has ruled since his parent's death when he was thirteen. He has a heart of service to the people of his land but he has been an authority figure for so long, he is used to his commands being instantly followed.
The neighboring land, Dhalkuri, has a dying Sheikh. His sister died about a month ago, leaving her only child, Tara, an heiress of lands with valuable mineral rights. Tara and her mother have lived in London, England for many years. Tara was summoned to Dhalkuri to settle her Mom's estate, but it was a ruse. Her cousin, Fuad, wants to marry Tara to control her lands and strengthen his claim to his dying father's sheikhdom. His brother, Salim,is abroad and unaware his Father's health is declining so fast.
Tara flees the country with nothing but the clothes on her back. She ends up in Nahrat at Raif's feet. Will this thoroughly independent Western woman be able to accept help from Raif to save her from Fuad?
Raif is the Sheikh of Nahrat, A small but wealthy land he has ruled since his parent's death when he was thirteen. He has a heart of service to the people of his land but he has been an authority figure for so long, he is used to his commands being instantly followed.
The neighboring land, Dhalkuri, has a dying Sheikh. His sister died about a month ago, leaving her only child, Tara, an heiress of lands with valuable mineral rights. Tara and her mother have lived in London, England for many years. Tara was summoned to Dhalkuri to settle her Mom's estate, but it was a ruse. Her cousin, Fuad, wants to marry Tara to control her lands and strengthen his claim to his dying father's sheikhdom. His brother, Salim,is abroad and unaware his Father's health is declining so fast.
Tara flees the country with nothing but the clothes on her back. She ends up in Nahrat at Raif's feet. Will this thoroughly independent Western woman be able to accept help from Raif to save her from Fuad?
February 8, 2021
The one thing Tara Michaels is sure of is that she does not want a forced marriage especially to Fuad who hopes to be crowned Sheikh. With that in mind she escapes and crosses the border to fall wrapped in a rug at the feet of the Sheikh Raif of the neighboring Nahrat. Raif realizes the trouble she is in and offers her his palace for safety. She is protected and even when Fuad tries to kidnap her Raif does all he can to keep her safe. Sounds like the beginning of a lovely romance and it is actually fantastic. Raif is a proud man and he for the first time falls under the spell of this lovely Tara. This story is amazing and Raif is a true hero. Loved it from page one
Read
January 19, 2023I don’t have any trope shelves that this fits. Maybe ‘he’s a king’ or ‘she was almost forced into marriage with her non-blood cousin’ or ‘she escaped her family in a rolled up carpet to illegally cross the border’? I don’t know how I feel about Sheik heroes. Is this realistic? Or it it like fake European royalty and we can assume it’s fantasy? There are no side characters on page, neither has family or friends to talk to. This might be considered cozy for some, it was a little boring for me. By the end I kind of wanted her to get kidnapped.
I’ll wait to rate.
I’ll wait to rate.
February 17, 2021
I enjoyed this book very much. Annie West writes lush,rich books with well plotted stories. Tara escapes the horror of her detainment by a family member and flees to a neighbouring country where Sheik Raif shelters and protects her from a kidnapping attempt with a proclamation to thwart her devious cousin.
I look forward to many more books from this author’s pen ❤️ as Annie has a special talent to weave exciting, exotic and romantic stories from around the world. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I look forward to many more books from this author’s pen ❤️ as Annie has a special talent to weave exciting, exotic and romantic stories from around the world. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 25, 2022
Follow your Heart!
The Sheikh in this story tried so hard to show his love and interest, without directly telling the Heroine that he cared and had fallen in love! The Heroine was willing to show her feelings in a very intimate way, but did not want to marry the Sheikh without his declaration of love, even though he offered marriage! Stalemate! Separation finally made them realize that they were losing the love of a lifetime because of their obstinance!
The Sheikh in this story tried so hard to show his love and interest, without directly telling the Heroine that he cared and had fallen in love! The Heroine was willing to show her feelings in a very intimate way, but did not want to marry the Sheikh without his declaration of love, even though he offered marriage! Stalemate! Separation finally made them realize that they were losing the love of a lifetime because of their obstinance!
March 14, 2021
Very good book
This was a very good book. The h and H met when the h ran away from her country, her cousin was trying to force her to marry him. He was a very cruel person. The H was the sheik and took the h under his protection. They fell in love and eventually married. Good ending.
This was a very good book. The h and H met when the h ran away from her country, her cousin was trying to force her to marry him. He was a very cruel person. The H was the sheik and took the h under his protection. They fell in love and eventually married. Good ending.
April 5, 2021
Annie West has done it again. Her latest book ‘The Sheikh’s Marriage Proclamation’ delivers everything we’ve come to expect from an Annie West novel. Her rich descriptions evoke images of sultry desert nights in opulent surroundings and, her hero turns the heat up to blistering. Congratulations on another great read.
May 17, 2021
I loved Tara's entrance in the book. Before they mentioned it I was like "Huh, like Cleopatra". Raif was sexy and powerful and I adored their scenes together. This is a cute read and just pure smutty fluff to tide me over between books. I love the Harlequin series books. I'm not ashamed to say it!!!!!!
February 16, 2021
This book opened with such an incredible hook. Tara and Raif were a delightful couple and their sexual chemistry was super intense. The emotional drama and conflict I've come to expect from Annie West was gripping and kept the story moving at a good pace. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
April 3, 2021
The Sheikhs Marriage Proclamation
A story about a girl who was needed to make a bad person a Sheikh and not succeed ing as she illegally crosses the bordef to anothet countty and gets help.
A story about a girl who was needed to make a bad person a Sheikh and not succeed ing as she illegally crosses the bordef to anothet countty and gets help.
February 22, 2021
Love it
May 24, 2021
I enjoyed reading this story! Love how Tara meets Sheikh Raif and reading what happens between them and how strong Tara is and love how it ends! I recommend this !!!!
October 25, 2021
I loved this one from the first page. I really enjoyed the story and characters were well developed.
December 4, 2021
Sweet loving story
Cute romantic love story funny strong heroine. He saves her from a bad situation, and risked a lot protect her.
Cute romantic love story funny strong heroine. He saves her from a bad situation, and risked a lot protect her.
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