A beautiful, defiant princess. A renowned, sinfully gorgeous Hollywood actor.A love affair that is sure to rock the British Monarchy¿and the world. Princess Adeline’s and Josh Jameson’s love affair began intensely and passionately. They knew any future together was impossible-her status as a princess and his standing as a Hollywood heartthrob dictated that. But the heights of pleasure they could … could take each other to were wildly unanticipated by them both. Josh’s absolute disregard for Adeline’s status quickly drew her into his hedonistic world. And her perfectly worn mask and false façade captivated Josh to the point of obsession. The boundaries became blurred. The physical became emotional. Their hearts became entwined. But a cruel turn of events rips their worlds apart and Adeline is more bound than ever by the protocol and expectations her title commands. The army of royal advisors who guard the secrets and scandals of the Monarchy will go to unthinkable lengths to keep the smoke and mirrors in place¿and Josh away from Adeline. She knows the power she possesses comes with agonizing sacrifices. Walking away from Josh devastates her¿but it keeps him safe from the corrupt institution that has ruled her life. Yet Josh refuses to lose the woman who has consumed him so completely, distorted his boundaries, and stripped him of all sensibility. Will the power of the British Monarchy triumph? Or will Adeline and Josh’s fierce love for each other change the course of history?
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Just when you thought the secrets couldn’t get any crazier, this book to you there. This was an awesome read. Adeline and Josh are a duo worth reading.
After the twisting finale of the first book, Adeline and Josh return to the conclusion of this intense but impossible romance. Now Queen, Adeline knows that the freedom she has always cherished has been in the past, her life is now governed by ancient and outdated laws and customs, every step and thought controlled by advisors and counselors keen to maintain the status of the monarchy. Despite the importance that her new position carries, she has no real power, she is a mere puppet who must behave in an exemplary manner and obey for the greater good. The illusion of the monarchy must remain, even if its interior is full of intrigue and lies.
With so much responsibility on herself, coupled with family problems and the fact that the counselors considers her inadequate to govern, Adeline is suffocated amid so many expectations and duties. But despite all this being a burden, she can deal with these misfortunes. The only thing she had to give up and that she clearly misses is her American boy. Broke up with Josh was the hardest thing she’s ever done, but she knows they would never have a chance to be together. On the way to protect the monarchy, Josh would be another victim.
Adeline can give up her love, may have to bear the weight of the crown on her head, may have to attend endless events, meet to discuss politics, and deal with people who clearly do not respect her and find her inadequate for the role, but she will never cease to be who she is, she will never become the apathetic, demure woman they crave. If the counselors thought they would manipulate and change her, they clearly underestimated her. Adeline will show who the Queen really is. Too bad she can handle all of this, except an extremely stubborn American boy.
Josh will not let Adeline walk away. If she thinks that being a Queen will keep him from continuing to try to fight for this relationship, she is deeply mistaken. Josh will not give up. Whatever the cost.
With so much intrigue surrounding her family and so many hidden secrets, and with Josh showing herself to be persistent, Adeline will have to decide what it’s really worth. Save her heritage and lineage or live a great love?
Adeline and Josh repeat the chemistry of the first book. The two together are completely explosive, but in the midst of so much passion, they can have their moments of tenderness. Josh, though authoritarian and overbearing, is the comfort Adeline so desperately needs. The inconsequential princess has given way to a firm Queen, who does not bow to anyone. But the woman behind the role gives herself unreservedly to this man.
The twist of some characters was surprising. I did not expect the change in Haydon as I did not expect the whole plot of Sabina. It was a clever way to insert the great villain. I set my predictions about the King’s accident.
The solution that was given to Adeline was interesting but I wish it had been different. It was an easy way out of the crown of her head. I wanted to see a development and a solution to the problem of the couple in the context of the monarchy. Adeline fought so hard to just give up everything at the end. Eddie still has a lot of story to tell, though I find his rebellious phase meaningless. With a father who never cared, I do not see why the new discoveries affected him so much.
The book concludes yet another brilliant series by Jodi Ellen. Adeline and Josh were a couple that piqued interest and causes empathy in the reader. Adeline, though inconsequential at first, grew and matured. Josh was seductive, dominant and charming. The princess and the actor. The Queen and king of Hollywood. A man and a woman. And lots of love between them.
I want to start by saying I love JEMs books, there’s no doubt she’s a talented writer and a true Queen of devious story plots… this book was no exception. I was just left feeling slightly disappointed insofar as I’d work out a lot of the secrets quite early on. There were still a couple of surprises that left me going “ Nooooooooo waaaaaaaaay!” And they were all saved for the last part of the book… I am used to jaw droppers springing throughout the story.
As always JEM has once again given us a super delicious alpha male to dream over in the shape of Josh Jameson… the potty mouthed Hollywood actor, the sexual tension between Josh and Adeline was palpable, smoking hot and kindle melting worthy. It was a beautiful romantic story. One that will turn your insides gooey. My only criticism was that I felt it was drawn out, I think about 30% of the book could have been edited out without affecting the story or plot. The first half I didn’t feel progressed at all only and was only there to emphasise the sneaking around that’s josh and Adeline had to go through to be together.
4 True Queen stars
I loved every moment of Adeline and Josh’s love story. There were so many twists and turns, lies and sabotage, and ultimately revelations that cut deep. But those discoveries led to the happiest thing of all. Acceptance, freedom, happiness, and most important, love.
His True Queen is the conclusion to a stunning story spanning generations of the Royal family and those closest to the Sovereign dynasty and the smoke and mirrors of secrets buried deep. It was the story of one woman who wanted none of what she was born into, never anticipated the tragedy she would endure that led to her taking the throne as Queen of England, and dared not hope of finding that soul deep love that her American Boy found in His True Queen.
Okay, hands down, this is one of my favorite reads of the year. I could not wait to dive into this book and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! I could not stop reading; I wanted to be in Josh and Adeline’s world. The chemistry these two had was off the charts; it was raw, it was sweet at times, it was hot as hell and every moment you felt the connection.
The story was more than a love story, it was full of lies, deceit, angst and scandal of epic proportions that left my mouth open. Jodi Ellen Malpas’ imagination is truly amazing. The twist and turns this story took left me in awe and I truly loved every moment. I loved Adeline’s character. She was fierce and had something to prove to her family and to her people. I felt for her and screamed at her a few times. The book was written in her POV and I loved reading it through her eyes. It made some parts difficult because I wanted to know what was going through the other person’s mind but it made it more gut wrenching having it all in her POV.
There are so many things I want to say in this review but I don’t want to give the story away. I was on the edge of the chair while reading, thinking no this can’t happen, then OMG what just happened. So my advice is JUST GO ONE CLICK NOW!
I couldn’t wait to see what would happen to Josh and Adeline relationship. Would they be able to overcome the deceit and manipulations of the Monarchy? Could Eddie and Adeline find a way to overcome the loss of the King and the rise from the house of cards that is raining down?
Forced to take on the role of Queen, Adeline has tried to maintain some normalcy. Hoping to retain her residence at Claringdon Palace and her trusted staff Adeline is met with objections at every turn. Her one sticking point….Damon. Her trusted driver and protector continues to show his love and support to Adeline even though she puts herself in some precarious positions in this book.
As Adeline struggles with her new position in the family she uncovers quite a few skeletons lurking in the royal closets and sets out to right some of those wrongs. She finds solace in the only place that gives her strength…..in the arms of Josh. Although forbidden she cannot bring herself to deny her love for him and the joy he brings to her life.
Watching Adeline and Josh maneuver the trials and tribulations of their relationship was heartwarming and heart-wrenching at the same time. Their ability to just be in the midst of such chaos was inspiring. But all good things must come to an end and you just have to keep the faith that Jodi Ellen Malpas will right the wrongs and give you your hearts desire.
The layers of deceit in which the Royals operate are slowly revealed leaving you wondering if anything or anyone is what or who they appear to be. I was pleasantly surprised to see where the story went. Adeline and Josh’s determination to fight for their love in spite of all of the adversity was a journey I would gladly take with them again. I fell hard for the American boy and his Queen.
I will say that the only thing that left me wanting in this book was for a little bit more of Prince Edward. Something tells me he could weave us a pretty intriguing tale full of mischief.
At last we have answers!! I love anything that involves prince and princesses. Princess Adeline has to make a choice and it is a difficult one- love or title.
Adeline is the new queen and can no longer see Josh. We know from book one that the chemistry between them is off the charts, and the passion -SWOON! Josh is an american actor as we found out in book 1 and is love for Adeline has no limits.
“My plight is very real. ” Loving you is the easy part, ” I say softly. ” It’s everything that comes with loving.”
Adeline learns family secrets and realise to what extent her father was a cruel man. Josh and Adeline cannot stay away from each other and pursue their forbidden love story that we all love but we know that this will not be without consequences…
” There’s more danger to me within these walls than there is outside of them Josh. (…) In here, Damon is protecting me from them and them alone, and I am dancing dangerously close to the fire right now.”
What a ride it was!! Are they going to get caught? Can Love conquer it all?
Once again, Jodi Ellen Malpas wrote a great story made in Britain!
His True Queen is the second part in the Smoke & Mirrors duet. I highly recommend you read The Controversial Princess before reading His True Queen. I’m not going to dive too much into what this novel is about because this is a continuation novel, I would hate to give spoilers away to those who are waiting to binge this series…
About His True Queen:
Adeline is now the reigning Queen of England, and with being Queen comes harsh responsibility and being forced into walking a straight line. But Adeline is unlike most rulers, She leads with her heart and not with her head. When she’s told she must give up the one person who makes her complete, all bets are off. This Queen is not about to let the monarchy control her happiness….
My Thoughts:
What an enticing and heart stopping way to conclude this duet. The Smoke & Mirrors duet is an addiction! An addiction that easily claimed my entire day. I literally did nothing but sit outside on my swing and read. I couldn’t put this book down.
When I finished The Controversial Princess I had no clue what to think or even what my thought process was on. I was completely speechless. If you read my review on The Controversial Princess you may have seen that was my first Jodi Ellen Malpas novel. Usually when I’m familiar with an author I can easily pick up on which way the author is going to go with their series. With His True Queen I had no clue what I was in for, all I knew was I wanted and needed more.
I still adore Adeline and the fire that lives within her. Her strength is something to be admired. I loved her tenacity to be herself even when others pushed and tried to force her into the role of how they view a queen should be.
There was a twist around every freaking corner, talk about emotional whiplash.
Overall, I loved His True Queen. It was the perfect way to end an excellent duet. I cannot wait to read more from Jodi Ellen Malpas in the near future!
All Hail The Queen!
Queen Jodi is reigning supreme this year! The drama. The angst. The complexity of the plot. I was on the edge of my seat the entire read! This duet is sheer and utter perfection!
Here’s what you need to know: The beginning is so emotional. It sets up the action of the book superbly. Adeline and Josh’s struggle is so poignant. The middle of the book will keep you guessing, wondering what on earth can happen next. It’s so delicious!! And the end…GAH, the end! Totally unexpected.
What I loved: For starters, the sexy, hot, and possessive alpha. That’s sort of my kryptonite and one of the main reasons why JEM is an auto-buy author. Her male leads are the men you dream about. So hardcore alpha and completely obsessed with the women they love.
“You’re the beginning and end of everything.”
Josh Jameson is exactly that. He puts the A in alpha-male.
Adeline is one of my all-time favorite characters. She’s fiercely independent, sassy, impulsive, but also caring and feels so much.
“Empathetic, zealous, and real.”
She’s such a paradox. A Queen who is submissive to no one, but her man. This dynamic was SO much fun to witness. I could not get enough.
The plot twists, secrets, and unconditional faith exhibited gave me so much pleasure. The writing is superb! The pace was spot on. Typically, longer romances feel overdone and repetitive which weighs down the plot and pace. That did not happen here. It’s an expertly crafted work of art. I had only 1 ticky little nit-picky issue. In the grand scheme of things, it didn’t affect how I felt about the book.
In case you’re wondering….I LOVED IT. Highly recommended!
I was so looking forward to the conclusion of this Smoke and Mirrors Duet. The ending of The Controversial Princess was so emotional, I was super excited to see how the story would end. This book is not a standalone and one must read book 1 before jumping into this book.
I will say that I loved Adeline and Josh. Their love, frustration, heartache, need and want were palpable. In such a predicament, with anything involving anything Royal, Adeline and Josh are sometimes at odds with each other but their love and passion always overrode those odds. They were meant to be together, it was just their worlds that were causing them heartaches. How can The Queen of England and a hot sexy actor follow their dreams and not the ones dictated by family and tradition? The struggles are real and frustrating for Adeline but her sense of family is strong. The world is riding on her shoulders with all the secrets and lies while Josh is carrying her heart and happiness.
The cast of secondary characters were delightful and then their were those that were sinister. I adored Damon and his care for His Queen. Adeline’s staff also added some humor and concern. And poor Prince Edward…..he was a hot mess. And then there were those who’s interest in the crown and not the actual Queen created turmoil for Adeline. And the Queen Mother, she was not one of my favorites but eventually won me over.
But I will say that I thought the story was strung out slightly. I appreciated the struggles and hardships but the middle felt a little repetitive. So I found that I slightly skimmed in the middle. But in all, I loved Adeline and Josh’s story and I also loved the epilogue.
This is a sweet duet. It has hardships but it is full of love and passion between the American Boy and His True Queen.
5 Stars is not enough for this set of books. As always, with any book by JEM, this was one that had me captivated. The characters are amazing. She has a way with words and tension building that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. My kids had to eat pizza. I literally paid one kid to fold laundry because I was not leaving this book world for one second until I got to the ending. It was fabulous and worth every bit of the kid dictation and sore behind from sitting on my couch for that long to read this in one sitting. A fantastic read that I will recommend to anyone and everyone. – By Cat
Another gem from JEM! This two book series is EPIC! His True Queen picks up right where The Controversial Princess left off. Adeline and Josh’s budding relationship was royally screwed. Adeline doesn’t want to become the Queen of England, just the Queen of Josh’s heart. She can’t rule the country and be with her beautiful American boy since he isn’t from royal lineage.
“My father and my brother are dead because of me. The country has lost their Sovereign because of me. My destiny has been written, a destiny I cannot bear, yet it is my own doing. It is my punishment.”
Adeline knows she must concentrate on her Sovereign duties and not go against tradition. Will she be forced into a loveless marriage? Is she just a pawn in a royally screwed game of love, lies, and loyalty? Will this princess be allowed to be with the King of her heart and bedroom?
His True Queen was nothing short of amazing . I couldn’t read this book fast enough. This royal, two book series is the Crown jewel of JEM’s books!His True Queen
Duty or Love…
As the newly crowned Queen of England, Adeline Lockhart has an overwhelming amount of pressure on her shoulders and because of her title, sacrifices have to be made; because despite her position, Queen Adeline still answers to her people, to her advisers, and, in some ways, to the world as a whole, and with all eyes on her, tough choices have to be made and what that means for her personal life…for the man who owns her heart just might be her undoing.
Adeline’s forbidden romance with Josh Jamieson becomes even more complicated, making the possibility of their relationship continuing, let alone, lasting a significant point of contention, but Adeline’s saving grace is the fact that Josh refuses to lose the best thing that’s ever happened to him, which means that regardless of what stands in Josh’s way, he’ll work to prove his worth, his intelligence, his love to the only person that matters – His True Queen.
I have to say that I was surprised by the length of Her True Queen, and I worried that the conflicts would be drawn out and the drama overdone, but I should have never doubted Jodi Ellen Malpas’ storytelling because every word on every page matters; they drive the story forward and truly illustrate the position that Adeline and Josh find themselves in, as both individuals and as a couple, and while Josh’s first instinct is to protect Adeline, she more than proves that what she needs most from him is his love, which she’s had since the beginning of this duet.
I confess…sometimes the angst really did a number on my heart and my head; Adeline was doing everything in her power to meet the demands placed upon her while still finding time for herself, but her title seems to monopolize and manipulate anything that has to do with Adeline personally, which only further reinforces the idea that as Queen, she’s beholden to her people and must concentrate on her duties, seemingly losing any self-identity she once had.
There are so many secrets revealed and betrayals uncovered that it almost seems impossible for Adeline to endure, but while she seemed to buckle, at times, she more than epitomizes the true qualities of a queen, refusing to cower or kneel to anyone except the man who owns her heart.
Queen Adeline deserves her title, BUT she also deserves the man she wants to stand beside her, and even though these two ideas seem quite contradictory given her position and the fact that there are so many obstacles and sabotagers to overcome in order to achieve both outcomes, if anyone can do it, it’s Adeline and Josh…just be prepared for Jodi Ellen Malpas to put her hero and heroine as well as her readers through one twisty, angsty, extremely complicated journey to get to the end game, but let me tell you, it’s so worth it, even if I felt like my heart would never be whole again.
4.5 Poison Apples
5 Majesty Stars
Review by Allyson
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
Pick up where we were left dangling with our tiaras in His True Queen by Jodi Ellen Malpas, the conclusion to The Controversial Princess. Your heart will skyrocket and shatter while following Her Majesty Adeline on her path of Queen and obtaining the love of her life.
“Can I truly have everything? Can I be with Josh and maintain the Monarchy’s carefully constructed facade?”
Can the embarrassment, disgraceful princess Adeline prove herself as Her Majesty, the Queen? Playing with ‘smoke & mirrors’ illusions, learning the hidden secrets lurking in the halls of the royal family. Through out the tribulations that she endures, there is one man that keeps her calm and in line, but even though he has won her heart, is there a place within the family for him?
“I don’t care if you’re Adeline, a princess, or the Queen of fuckin’ England. You will not treat me like you are superior. It doesn’t suit you. We are equals. Man and woman. Lovers. Friends. You love me.”
My emotions escalated tremendously between Adeline and Josh! The drama of ‘will they be together’ or ‘won’t they’ pulled at my heart strings so much. The ending says it all as it’s SWOON-WORTHY! I love, absolutely LOVED the moment Josh surprises her, I can picture everything as if it’s a movie reel playing in my mind. Be still my heart, emotions and feelings!
Jodi’s words become embedded in you as you read. You feel what she feels as she writes. It’s as if you are in her mind, feeling her thoughts flow on to the page. Magnificent!
Every time I read a Jodi Ellen Malpas novel I am utterly captivated. As the name indicates this story is about the smoke and mirrors surrounding the monarchy. With so many twists and turns, underhanded machinations and palace intrigue, this love story is an emotional roller coaster. Jodi has artfully created two extraordinary characters who are so richly layered, strong, resilient and bold. Rooting for them and their happiness is easy.
Adeline goes from being the Rebelious Royal Princess to the Queen of England in the blink of an eye. She struggles to align who she should be and is expected to be with who she is and wants to be. Josh Jameson, her American boy, loves his queen ferociously. He gives Adeline the strength and resolve she needs to make the right decisions for their future. They stand together and fight together those who want to manipulate and undermine the queen and her king.
I received a free copy of this book from the author.
This is the second book in the Smoke & Mirrors Duology. If you’ve not read The Controversial Princess then you don’t need to read any more of this review!
At the end of The Controversial Princess – Princess Adeline found out she was now Queen instead of the spare to the spare. What a mess! There’s also the problem of her being in love with an A-list Hollywood actor who will never be accepted as her consort.
It’s just a matter of time before Adeline gets everything straight in her head as to how to proceed with this “mess.” The monarchy is founded in an array of smoke and mirrors. The lies Adeline is uncovering aren’t really all that shocking it’s the years of cover up that would drive you up the wall.
Josh and Adeline’s love story is so super sweet. I absolutely love how diligent Josh is at reminding Adeline what they have is real above all. She’s willing to give up everything for that darn crown…but what about what makes Adeline happy?
The behind the scenes backstabbing is ridiculous. I had to laugh a few times when Addie put some people in their places. I think you’ll love this book. It’s another great story from JEM!
4.5 stars
HIS TRUE QUEEN was one of my most anticipated books for this year! Jodi left us with more questions than answers in book 1, THE CONTROVERSIAL PRINCESS and I couldn’t wait to read the final installment of the SMOKE AND MIRRORS duet. As soon as I got it I devoured it! I barely came up for air! I needed all my questions answered and I can say with no mistake, that Jodi answered every one I had. She simply nailed it with this book (again!). With the plot, the development, the twist and turns, everything was perfection.! This book has everything we want as romance readers: romance, sexy/steamy scenes, intrigue, mystery…WOW! Who would imagine all the “smokes and mirrors” that the Monarchy hides!!! #SeeWhatIDidTHere *wink*
After The King’s dead, Adeline’s destiny is sealed, she must be the new Queen of England and the chance to live her own life with her “American Boy”, Josh, is fading away. What they could have is becoming more of a dream, than reality. There is no chance that the Monarchy will approve their relationship, and the mere idea of this breaks Adeline’s heart (mine too). Of course this “obstacle” won’t stop Josh, he can’t lose the only woman he has ever loved, moreover he won’t lose HIS QUEEN!
This story was absolutely a roller coaster of feelings! When you think that no more events can happen…*BAM* When you think that there is nothing else to do, no hope…*BAM* There comes a plot twist to change the whole story again. I blame Jodi for ruining my manicure! You find a light at the end of the tunnel, but expect the unexpected!!! So please give a chance to this amazing Princess that won’t follow the rules. I will admit, I didn’t care for some of her decisions and judged her at first, but I am SO happy I was willing to see her character growth all the way to the end. I recommend you buy the duet right now!!! Jodi did NOT disappoint! Not to mention that Jodie’s writing is brilliant and her stories are amazing as always!
Jodi never fails to capture the reader attention from the start to the end this book it everything you want.Two strong characters, twists and turns love and passion. If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would. Highly recommend this book. Congratulations Jodi Ellen Malpas on another great book
His True Queen by Jodi Ellen Malpas is the second book in her Smoke & Mirrors duet. His True Queen is not a standalone, you must read the previous book, The Controversial Princess, first.
His True Queen picks up where The Controversial Princess was left off. Adeline Lockhart, the princess of England is – through horrible circumstances – about to become the new Queen. But where does this leave Josh Jameson, the world famous actor and Adeline. Both just discovered their love for each other and how to make their relationship work. Now is everything null and void. Her life isn’t hers anymore. Adeline is trapped in history, expectations, intrigue and protocol. Her country and throne are her duty for life. A complicated web of lies, betrayal, mirrors and smoke runs through her reign and life.
But Josh never gave up on Adeline. He goes out of his way to simply be there for her, love her unconditionally.
After reading The Controversial Princess I couldn’t wait for this next book to release. I was giddy to get my hands on His True Queen and I had high expectations. And I wasn’t disappointed. Jodi Ellen Malpas masterfully weaves a web of twists and turns that had me capivated from the beginneing. The writing is excellent and I love the story, the words and I could very easily connect with the characters. I read the book in one sitting, I had to know what happens next. I will not spoiler here, only so much thiese twists and turns I never ever had expected.
I highly recommend The Smoke & Mirrors duet and wish I could give 6 stars.
His True Queen is a brilliant conclusion to Smoke & Mirrors duet. Jodi Ellen Malpas gives her readers an unforgettable experience with a twisty, unpredictable plot, characters you’ll fall in love with, scorching hot passion, and an EPIC – and I mean EPIC – love story. Its one of the most romantic stories I’ve read in a LONG time and reminds me why I love romance. If this American boy can figure out a way to have his queen, then surely love really can conquer all.
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.