The Night the King Claimed Her by Natalie Anderson is very enjoyable, dramatic slow-burn 
romance which features a very regal, selfish, spoilt, furious and possessive King – just how i like ’em.
I love dramatic beginnings, where you are pulled in from the start. An unexpected landing in the country she was kicked out introduces the heroine Elsie. The first chapter was fast paced and I loved how I had no clue why Elsie was told to LEAVE. NOW! At the same time the hero, King Felipe, is alerted to the unexpected plane drama and the unwanted passenger, although Elsie is under a different name (Why?). With his impending coronation, top security is in place. And when Elsie is whisked dramatically out of the airport I was on the edge of my seat for an explanation.
Elsie was set to become the King’s stepsister’s music teacher in an official capacity but after a terrible misunderstanding, Elsie thinks she must leave King Felipe’s beautiful country at once. With her family history, she’s not at all surprised she has to go on the run. When Elsie and Felipe come face to face again the attraction is instant. Unfortunately Elsie’s past is catching up quickly and she’s mortified Felipe will learn the truth (or not the truth) about her terrible family.
I loved the way the author captured the musical theme and wove it into her love story. It’s central to the romance. I loved the slow burn; it was built up perfectly for the expected explosion. It was captured perfectly when Felipe was immediately enchanted by Elsie after he finds her softly strumming her instrument and hears her beautiful voice. I loved the King was so kingly and I enjoyed the addition of his little stepsister. I enjoyed the flashbacks; I enjoy any attempt to make one Harlequin Presents different from another when there is only so many troupes that can be used.
I could be biased being a Kiwi myself but I really, really enjoyed Natalie Anderson’s latest offering.
Book Info:
Publication: August 2022 | Harlequin Presents |
When Elsie Wynter is stranded in Silvabon, she dreads seeing arrogant King Felipe. He knows far too much about the scandalous secrets in her past, yet her attraction to him returns with a dangerous intensity…
Felipe has vowed to be the last to wear his kingdom’s heavy crown. He’ll take no queen and sire no heirs. But with tantalizing Elsie back in the palace for one night only, he can think of nothing but finally claiming her… What will Felipe do when their unique fire demands more?
