How to Catch a Queen by Alyssa Cole Series: Runaway Royals #1
Published by Avon on December 1, 2020
Genres: Romance
Pages: 384
Format: ARC
Goodreads
Also by this author: How to Find a Princess
Also in this series: How to Find a Princess
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
How to Catch a Queen is the first book in a new contemporary romance series, Runaway Royals, by Alyssa Cole. A companion to her Reluctant Royals series, the new series shares the same African setting, engaging writing style and steamy tone.
In this enemies-to-lovers story, Shanti has worked her entire life to become a queen. You might remember her as the woman whose shoes Ledi throws up on in A Princess in Theory. When the neighboring country of Njaza needs a queen for their soon to be king, Sanyu, Njaza chooses Shanti from the applicant pool.
But being queen isn’t anything like she thought it would be. She’s sequestered with no outside contact, she’s not permitted to speak during council meetings, and Sanyu is cold and distant. Or is he.
My thoughts about How to Catch a Queen
This a fast-paced read with lots of cameos by characters from the Reluctant Royals series.
Shanti is a strong kickass woman undeterred by prejudice or sexism. Driven and smart, Shanti gives her best even when she gets rebuffed.
She’s kind and compassionate with her emotionally damaged king, determined to fight for a better future for Njaza and herself.
I enjoyed watching Sanyu move from an insecure, anxious, even rigid ruler to one who saw the value in Shanti. Although I did want to scream in frustration more than once. Channeling Shanti, I guess 😉
I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
Your thoughts
Have you read any of Alyssa Cole’s books? Tell me what you thought in the comments below!
Other books
You don’t have to read The Reluctant Royals series before you read How to Catch a Queen. But you should because they’re fun, spicy contemporary romances featuring strong, resourceful black women. A Princess in Theory is the first book.
The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon is another contemporary romance about a strong, smart and resourceful black woman. Read my full review.
My thanks to Avon and NetGalley for the ARC of How to Catch a Queen.
I read an Extraordinary Union by the same author and loved it! Can’t wait to read this one ?
I really enjoy her romances! She wrote a thriller this year that’s on my TBR list ?
When No One Is Watching is on my list too! It sounds SO good.
Her books always make me so happy! The second in the Runaway Royals is due out in May and I’m excited!