A ROYAL STANDALONE ROMANCE from the NYT Bestselling Author of The Pact, Bad at Love & The Swedish PrinceAt first glance I probably seem like any good-looking guy in their late twenties. I have an obscene amount of confidence, a tattooed body sculpted by the Nordic gods, and I love the ladies as much as they love me. If I’m not BASE jumping or car racing, I’m chasing other devious thrills with … other devious thrills with the woman of the week. And that’s fine if you’re the average single guy.
But I’m not the average single guy.
I’m Crown Prince Magnus of Norway and my latest scandal just landed my entire royal family in hot water.
Now the only way the monarchy can save face is for me to smarten up – publicly. If I don’t, I’ll no longer be heir apparent to the throne. So it’s either I abdicate my future role as King or…
I get married.
To a blue-blooded stranger.
Enter Princess Isabella of the tiny country of Liechtenstein.
Quiet, intelligent, and uniquely beautiful, Ella doesn’t like this arrangement any more than I do and she’s not afraid to show it. She says I’m a womanizer, that I don’t take anything seriously, that my ego should be taken down a few pegs, and I think she aims to make me miserable for the rest of my life.
But even as our arranged marriage becomes a war of wit and words, I’m determined to break through Ella’s prim and proper façade to find the wild, sexual and risk-taking woman underneath. I want to uncover the Queen inside her.
The only question is – will she let me?
The Wild Heir is a standalone royal romance and a spinoff of The Swedish Prince but it is not necessary to read that book beforehand as The Wild Heir is about different characters
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Magnus is your typical player, adrenaline junkie trying to forget he’s a prince and heir to the thrown. Until a scandal he can’t hide from, makes his family sit up and force him into fixing it for the country and for the family. Princess Isabella is a lesser known royal who was put of for the lucky job of marrying Magnus to clean up his act. Only she’s not as into it as his seems to be once he meets her. Now he has to win her over. Their relationship is fun to read, and will have you rooting for them to win. Another great book in the Royal Romance world.
Viktor and Ellas’s story was wonderful. What a charming rogue Viktor is. Snarky, dirty-talking, sexy and fiercely loyal to both friends and damily. His inner turmoil was beautiful written by Karina Halle. I also felt Ella’s deep emotional issues concerning her father and lonely existence yet her underlying steel core come shining through. Viktor’s ability to get under Ella’s skin and draw her out and her deep understanding of the man beneath the extremes made this an excellent reading experience.
Well, this was exactly what I wanted from The Swedish Prince, which, if you’ve read my review, did not leave me satisfied. The Wild Heir, on the other hand, fulfilled my expectations although many things were slow. I still don’t know if I liked or not that this was a slow, slow, burn. Maybe I wanted more unexpected plots to unravel, but they didn’t. Or I’m just not in the mood for a light and entertaining book such as this one. I mean, I gave it 5 stars, of course I liked it. But it’s more of a 4.5 rating for this doubt that I have after hours I finished it.
Anyway, the protagonist of this book is prince Magnus of Norway, whom we already met in The Swedish Prince and whom we know is a man who loves to go out with a lot of women and likes to do risky sports and such. In fact this book starts with him jumping off a cliff for fun, because he likes the thrill. Magnus has always taken life lightly, but the royal family has had enough of his behavior. Not only he is old enough (he’s 28) to stop act this rashly, he also has reasons to rectify his life before it’s too late. After the last scandal he’s involved in, the queen decides that he needs to do something to show his people that he can be trusted when he’ll be king, and since his father’s health is declining, in the end he accepts to follow his parents’ advice, which is get married with a woman who comes from a royal family like him. The only thing Magnus can do is choose the woman, and the choice falls upon princess Isabella “Ella” of Lichtenstein, who is younger than him (she’s 22).
Like I said, this book is a slow burn romance, so we get to know how Magnus and Ella live and think before they even meet and before she discovers what the Norwegian royals want from her. And after they finally encounter, it passes a long time before something happens between them. I liked that the author took her time to build up the tension between this couple, but sometimes I wasn’t surprised at how they interacted. They had chemistry, yes, but I would have liked more angst. I don’t know, I felt them but at the same time it was all too light and simple. But I liked how their story was built and it felt believable, especially since they take time to fall for each other and to get physical.
I liked the character of Magnus and I already liked him in the previous book. I’m glad he was complicated and deep and that his personality was so difficult to understand that you never knew what to expect from him. He never sought anything more than sex with anybody, but since Ella might become his wife, he tries help her know the real him, and this creates a link between them. He never opened up before because he never thought he’d get married and this early, so this helped him mature emotionally and finally grow up.
I’m still undecided if I liked Ella. You’d say, “Oh, but you gave 5 stars, how could you have not liked her?”. Well, Ella wasn’t that bad, but she was full of self-pity in some parts, like when she’s at university and her roommates don’t tell her that their wine and cheese night has been moved to another room. She gets all “omg they hate me because I’m new” “they’ll never like me” etc. etc., which are normal insecurities, but at times she was annoying. It might have been true, but her repeating the concept in different ways until the end, since she also thought that of her family, in my case made me less emphatic towards her. But she also had a particular personality, since she was the classic good girl type who always followed the rules and she rarely enjoyed life. At least with Magnus she learns to accept her feisty side and understands that she needs to break some rules and don’t think that every person who seems distant is bad news or hates her.
Now I’m looking forward to A Nordic King, hoping it won’t disappoint.
When the heir to Norway’s throne is forced to an arranged marriage after his latest sexscapade goes viral, he choses an unlikely princess to be his bride. Their meeting does not go as planned and convincing her he’s worth taking the plunge will be his first order of business.
This book was an enjoyable read, with a good storyline and relatable characters. I was reluctant to get into it because I didn’t really care for the first book of the series, but Magnus and Ella were a completely different set altogether.
I really liked the characters, their personalities and their relationship. Magnus and Ella are complete opposites and, while they come together under the most unusual circumstances, they get to know and support each other on their way to find their HEA.
This is a royal story I’ll gladly recommend.
Karina was a new author to me, but man, did she sling shot my brain into her book.
Loved how she sculpted the love story, created, Isabella, a strong heroine who stands on her own against a guy who’s pretty used to getting his charming way.
Adored how Magnus learned and wanted to make Isabella happy in every way imaginable.
Swoonworthy!
I guess I wanted to be proven wrong…
I started The Wild Heir with very low expectations. See, I wasn’t very impressed by my first meeting…or second with Prince Magnus. Such a self-absorbed, egotistical, risk taker who had no respect for his title or position. To be honest, I spent most of this story wishing for him to step up to the plate and be a better man. I couldn’t give up though as there was this little spark of hope that kept me going on. The more I got to know Magnus, the more I saw him, and the wild heir became just a normal bloke who made some bad decisions.
I wasn’t particularly fond of Magnus’s need to share his wild side and what drives him to do the things he does. This is not because, well not solely because of his need to take risks, it was that deep down I knew it was a mask to the true problem. Of course, for story’s sake, the heroine steps in and two seconds later realises the problem and helps to fix it. I had a feeling it was heading this way but I wasn’t particularly happy or sad that I worked it out so early. He’s 28…how could he not know?
I really liked Ella and her best mate, assistant, lady-in-waiting, “Lady Jane”. Their connection to each other jumped off the pages and I loved their devotion to each other. The situation she was put into by her father and the lack of prior understanding of that position, made me cranky. Especially because it was at the beginning of the book and I was making squinty eyes at Magnus still. Ella’s family isn’t really what I would call a true family. Jane is the only person she can count on, and she’s paid to be there for her. Ella is a good person despite her lack of family connection.
This was an entertaining story with some laugh out loud moments mixed in with a touch of heartbreak and a big old pile of lusty lust. I would call this one a slow burn and I’m glad that it was. Ella was too smart to instantly fall for the bad boy and I’m glad she made him work for her affection. At times I felt that the story was dragging and I was desperate to see Magnus make a change for the better. It seemed unrealistic that someone so famous could hide behind his very public “wild” mask.
I enjoyed The Wild Heir and I’m glad I got the opportunity to see Magnus in a different light. It was great to catch up with The Swedish Prince and I can’t wait to know more about The Nordic King. I finished with a smile on my face and content that they were really meant to be together.
YES!
From the moment we were introduced to Magnus in “The Swedish Prince” I felt he needed his own book (aka I want and need and would love to read a Magnus book).
I felt he had a story to tell – and now he’s finally telling us his story.
The Crown Prince of Norway, the wild heir to the throne. A Daredevil living life to its fullest with sports, partying and women.
Then he must face his mistakes, he has a future to prepare for. But is he ready for it? Will it all change when he meets Ella, Princess Isabella of Liechtenstein?
Being Norwegian, I was really looking forward to this book. I was excited to see how “Norwegian” this book would be, if it would feel right.
And from the beginning, it felt right. It’s difficult to explain – but I ended up singing “Let it go” from the movie Frozen (which is somewhat based on Norway, Norwegian culture, and traditions )
I really don’t know what to say! I loved this book from start to finish. It’s “rolling on the floor laughing” funny. This story is sweet but also serious. There’s just a little tad angst, just to keep us on our toes during the read.
Another Karina Halle must read!
We met Crown Prince Magnus of Norway in The Swedish Prince. He lives the wild life always taking chances. But he winds up in trouble for a scandal in the tabloids and to save face for the royal family he must take a wife. Enter Princess Isabella of the tiny country of Liechtenstein. “Ella”
Ella finds the idea of Magus laughable until she realizes she can really gain some power for things she believes in if she can reign in Magnus. This book is funny, sweet, a little sad, sexy and amazing Loved it!! Hell who doesn’t love a fairy tale
The Wild Heir was so fantastic! I loved every second and literally couldn’t stop reading. There was emotion and humor right from the start pulling me in. Excellent read!
The characters are flawed but charismatic and likeable. I did not want this book to end!
The Wild Heir is a twist filled romance where love brings a prince to his knees.
Who doesn’t like a royal wedding? Add to that an arranged marriage where the two develop romantic feelings for each other. It’s a good light read.
The Wild Heir is a standalone royal romance and a spinoff of The Swedish Prince. I have not read The Swedish Prince and had no problem following along.
“If you don’t wish to abdicate, then you will be king.”
Magnus is the Crown Price of Norway. He is hot, sexy and wild. Confident and cocky. He is also impulsive, always chasing the thrill, the adrenaline rush. But, he never chases women. No…they chase him. Magnus is not only sowing his wild oats. He is sowing fields and fields of wild oats! However, all of that catches up with him as he causes a scandal. He must marry someone “suitable” to redeem himself and be taken seriously as next in line for the throne.
“You will get married to someone beautiful, nice, proper, and prestigious.”
A list of potential spouses is presented. Magnus chooses Princess Isabella (Ella) of Liechtenstein. Ella is smart, outspoken and not afraid to speak her mind. She has many passions and dreams. Ella has been away at school for most of her life. She finds it hard to make friends because of her “princess” status. That leaves her feeling lonely and isolated at times.
Magnus and Ella have a lot of chemistry. Their slow burn ignites into passion. I loved their banter. Magnus creates a ‘getting to know you’ game that is really funny. Ella does not back down! Magnus brings out Ella’s wild side. Ella is gentle and caring while trying to help Magnus battle a personal situation. It is a bit of an emotional ride, with only a few bumps. Magnus and Ella also share many of the same insecurities. But in the end, they really do complete each other. Their personal journey starts out rocky but they evolve into friends and then more, finally coming full circle.
“You’re a manwhore, playboy, womanizer.” I tick off my fingers. “Wannabe Casanova.”
“Wannabe? I think I’ve fully achieved Casanova status at this point.”
4 stars
Great read! I was hopping Magnus got a book after the Swedish Prince. I was not disappointed. Ella and Magnus were hysterical and totally hot!!! Great, quick easy to follow read. Definitely recommend.
What an fun story this was. I had it on my TBR for a while and now was the perfect time to get to it. The bantering between Ella and Magnus was really entertaining. I recommend this story.
“Be bold and brilliant in all things.”
Thank you for breaking me out of my book funk Karina Halle!
I’m glad I finally got to read Magnus’ story; he seemed like a whole heap of trouble that would make for a fantastic main character when we meet him in The Swedish Prince as Viktor’s best friend. But he’s so much more dynamic than the rebellious Crown Prince he’s made out to be, and is matched by the equally dynamic and fantastically strong and determined Ella. And you’d most assuredly need a heroine with a certain fortitude to match an alpha-male with a Viking heart.
“Maybe this wasn’t how we saw our lives going, but right now, I can’t think of it going any other way. I know you have your reservations and you’re entitled to them. I have mine too. I know we’ve only known each other for a few weeks and I know we’re not in love. We’re barely in like. But I do know that I want to do this with you and I can only hope you’ll do it with me.”
Magnus and Ella are a great match for each other. The complement, balance and challenge each other – the dynamic between them makes for an excellent read.
Fun, sexy, feisty, sweet, with a lot of heart, and some laugh-out-loud moments (we’re talking teeny-tiny shorts in a 80’s throw back tennis outfit complete with headband worn by the Crown Prince) The Wild Heir is a fantastic story.
Love fiercely. Love bravely. Love with everything you’ve got.
The Wild Heir is a fantastically written stand-alone story of Prince Magnus of Norway and Princess Ella of Liechtenstein. Magnus is a wild, reckless bad boy of sorts and heir to throne who definitely does not want the responsibility of becoming a king. Unfortunately, he finds himself involved in a scandal and his only way to salvage his reputation as well as his family’s, is to marry a princess. Ella comes in at the perfect time and she is intelligent, spunky, charming and just amazing. She’s demure with just the right amount of innocence coupled with fiery passion. I was thoroughly entertained by their relationship, comedic banter and laugh out loud antics. It’s a wonderful enemies to lovers story.
The Wild Heir has a consistent and captivating plot. Although it is a slow burn romance, it is definitely well worth the wait. The sexual tension between Magnus and Ella is scorching! Trust me, once they connect and finally consummate their relationship, you will not be disappointed. The sexual chemistry and sex scenes will set you on fire!!! Magnus and Ella’s relationship is so swoon worthy and I just couldn’t get enough of them. What a beautiful romance with the perfect HEA.
Karina has written a fun tale about finding love in the most unlikely way. The story was full of funny, hot, steamy, and sweet scenes that made this love story unfold in the best way.
Magnus is a playboy prince with no concern for consequences. He is selfish with his time and his responsibilities. It isn’t until ultimatums are made that you see his character change.
Ella is shy, quirky, and lonely. She has grown up in boarding school and truly wishes she received more attention from her father and brothers. She doesn’t know how to fit in with others and kinda a loner at university.
When these two characters meet, they bring out the dormant qualities each other possess. Ella becomes more outgoing, outspoken, and assertive whereas Magnus becomes more thoughtful and caring.
Overtime these two develop feelings for each other and they love fiercely. Their love story may not have been conventional, but they made it their own.
I loved this story and the way the story is told with so much passion and energy. I definitely want to go back and read the Swedish Prince, and I truly hope that the other characters from this story get their own book. Magnus’s sisters have so many different, big personalities that the possibilities are endless.
Oh how I was waiting so patiently for Magnus’ story! And boy did Karina deliver!
Wild Heir is the story of Prince Magnus and Princess Isabella (Ella).
We met Magnus in The Swedish Prince. I knew then I wanted to get more of my homie’s (I am third generation Norwegian) story. Magnus is a “wild” one. And he has finally done something so terrible that he knows he has to change his ways.
Princess Isabelle has been in “exile” for most of her life and she has no clue on what it is to be royal.
Ella and Magnus’ chemistry is off the charts!! Magnus has a talent for the dirty talk and boy oh boy did it make me blush!
This is a fast paced, funny story that touched upon some topics that really hit home for me, it explains why Magnus does the things he does. The secondary characters are fantastic and really bring more depth to the story! I am hoping that one character in particular gets his own story too! (I don’t want to name, names and ruin it for anyone)
I have really enjoyed this loosely based series, I say loosely based because Wild Heir can truly be read as a stand alone. I enjoy the settings, the pageantry and the royalness of it! Romantic comedies are my favorite books to read and this book has the fun factor in spades! This fun, steamy book is definitely a must read!!
Thank you for your words and stories Karina! I cannot wait to read more!
“Please don’t break my heart.”
Karina Halle DOES IT AGAIN! She mixes the sexy, the sweet, the romance, and the angst, and turns out something simply and ROYALLY FANTASTIC! This standalone royal romance will sweep you off of your feet and leave you in a completely blissful state of mind. Magnus and Ella will set your heart ablaze with their chemistry and their passion. Their story…their blossoming adoration towards each other is enough to make you absolutely melt! As far as ‘royal romances’ goes, this one was top notch! Halle brings her usual depth of emotion in this story, weaving in a beautiful message in between the lines. I LOVED it! I ADORED these characters and the writing was spectacular, as usual. This author can really do no wrong. No matter the genre, no matter the trope, Halle brings her A-GAME each and every time!