I am really surprised that this is the first book I’ve read by this author when I look at her list of publications. But I guess it makes sense because she does write a lot in the paranormal and fantasy areas and that’s usually not my jam.
However, this one sounded fun and even though it’s the second book in a series, you can read it as a standalone. Check out my review of this upcoming new release.
The Royals Upstairs by Karina Halle
Publisher : Berkley (September 10, 2024)
ISBN-13 : 978-0593334218
OVERVIEW:
James Hunter has made a tactical error. His new role as protection officer to Prince Magnus of Norway was supposed to be an exciting change. Instead, he’s marooned on a royal estate in the middle of nowhere charged with chasing after demon children and dodging the machinations of meddling staff. And the crowning jewel in this little drama—the children’s nanny is none other than Laila Bruset. The woman whose heart he broke. The woman who still holds his.
When Laila took the job as a nanny for the Norwegian royal children in order to be closer to her ailing grandmother in Oslo, the last thing she expected was to have her life turned upside down—again. But as much as James gets on her nerves, he’s also getting under her skin, and the tension between them sizzles just as devastatingly as before.
As undeniable sparks turn James and Laila’s battle royal into a more serious game of hearts, the nanny and bodyguard will have to decide just how much they’re willing to risk for a second chance at love.
The Royals Upstairs by Karina Halle Review
This book seems to be a spin-off from a book previously published, but I had no difficulty getting into the flow. The only thing is the two main characters knew each other prior, and I’m not sure how much they appeared in the other book.
The story has a great setting as we are treated to the Nordic freeze. We also meet those they serve with the Prince of Norway and staff. Not to mention his bratty-well, one of them-children.
Halle spent a lot of time on the development of the main characters separately but I was a little sad. She really didn’t have a lot of time with them one-on-one.
We get snippets of the past where they had a relationship in the prior book and we understand that they both cared for each other. But a lot of their conversation is through a wall and interactions during their day while working.
Both are stubborn and in some ways, very closed off from letting anybody in, including each other. That is a bit frustrating for the reader because this whole story is a build-up, yet they’re not building in a true connection between each other until the very end.
The Royals Upstairs is sweet, but it’s also sad in many ways. We do get quite a bit of steam, but there is a lot of crazy and super messy stuff to go through as well.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable story with some laughs, some spice, some working through to the second chance, and a lovely HEA that was a long time coming.
3.5 STARS!!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.