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Striking by Bella Matthews
5.0
emotional funny hopeful reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Rhys Windsor has been tutored since he was a young child in his future role as King of Mornea.  Duty to the crown, his country and the citizens of Mornea are to be his priorities. Love was not even considered. But love is the only thing on Rhys’s mind after he meets the petite beauty who takes his breath away on the private island his family owns. From the moment they meet, both Rhys and Bellamy feel a pull toward the other and struggle to keep their hands off each other. Fast forward a few days later, and both of their worlds have changed, for better or worse. 

Not only are they married, but after the death of his grandfather, Rhys is now King of Mornea. Bellamy, a nurse and caregiver to her core, steps up to not only comfort Rhys, but to support and encourage him too oas he not only grieves his grandfather, but also steps into the role he was born to assume. With their marriage a secret until after the funeral, Bellamy is a source of unwavering support and strength for Rhys.  The days ahead are filled with on the job training in their new roles, controversy over their marriage and dealing with feelings they have yet to reveal to each other. Then they must deal with the reactions of those close to them, like her overprotective and very concerned brothers, his irreverent, sarcastic brother and odious father, as well as a whole host of friends who don’t know what’s going on but want to be supportive. Unfortunately, the world is watching and commenting while they are dealing with everything and trying to find their way forward together. 

Bellamy and Rhys practically sizzle when they are near each other. They both have steely determination, generous hearts and a need to protect and care for their loved ones. They offer each other grace, support and encouragement, and most importantly, steadfast devotion.  Their story is twisty, entertaining, and emotional, with bit of angst and a good dose of spice. It made laugh, smile and cheer, and I am  very happy to recommend it.