Get ready to be swept away on a festive adventure across the pond! In Royal Holiday Jasmine Guillory, we follow Vivian Forest, a woman who unexpectedly finds herself spending Christmas at a royal estate in England. With a dash of holiday magic and a sprinkle of royal charm, this heartwarming novel is sure to put you in the holiday spirit and leave you believing in the power of love at any age.
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Royal Holiday – The Wedding Date Series Book 4
Vivian Forest has been out of the country a grand total of one time, so when she gets the chance to tag along on her daughter Maddie’s work trip to England to style a royal family member, she can’t refuse. She’s excited to spend the holidays taking in the magnificent British sights, but what she doesn’t expect is to become instantly attracted to a certain private secretary, his charming accent, and unyielding formality.
Malcolm Hudson has worked for the Queen for years and has never given a personal, private tour—until now. He is intrigued by Vivian the moment he meets her and finds himself making excuses just to spend time with her. When flirtatious banter turns into a kiss under the mistletoe, things snowball into a full-on fling.
Despite a ticking timer on their holiday romance, they are completely fine with ending their short, steamy affair come New Year’s Day…or are they?
Brief Plot Overview (No Spoliers!)
Vivian Forest, a hardworking social worker, embarks on a whirlwind trip to England when her daughter Maddie, a professional stylist, is invited to work with a member of the royal family over the holidays.
While exploring the grand Sandringham estate, Vivian finds herself drawn to Malcolm Hudson, the Queen’s private secretary. Despite their different backgrounds and initial hesitations, a spark ignites between them.
As they spend more time together amidst the holiday cheer and royal traditions, Vivian and Malcolm discover a shared passion for their work and a growing affection for each other. But with the holiday season drawing to a close and their lives on opposite sides of the Atlantic, they must decide whether their whirlwind romance is simply a holiday fling or something with the potential to last beyond the festive season.
The Scoop
Ready for a sneak peek into the royal magic of Royal Holiday? Here’s a taste of what awaits you:
- Holiday Romance with a Twist: Royal Holiday takes the classic holiday romance trope and adds a touch of regal charm, transporting readers to a world of castles, traditions, and unexpected love.
- Age is Just a Number: The romance between Vivian and Malcolm challenges societal expectations about age and proves that love can blossom at any stage of life.
- A Diverse Cast: Guillory continues her commitment to representation, featuring characters from different backgrounds and walks of life.
- A Glimpse into Royalty: The novel offers a peek into the world of royal life, with its customs, protocols, and unique challenges.
- Family Dynamics: The relationship between Vivian and her daughter Maddie is a heartwarming subplot that explores the complexities of mother-daughter bonds.
- Travel and Adventure: The setting of Sandringham Estate and the surrounding countryside provides a picturesque backdrop for the story.
- Warm and Fuzzy Feelings: Royal Holiday is a feel-good read that will leave you with a warm heart and a renewed belief in the magic of the holiday season.
Our Review
A Festive Escape to a World of Romance and Royalty
Royal Holiday is a charming and heartwarming addition to Jasmine Guillory’s repertoire, offering a delightful escape into a world of holiday cheer and unexpected romance. The novel’s strength lies in its endearing characters, particularly Vivian, whose warmth, humor, and zest for life make her instantly relatable.
The romance between Vivian and Malcolm is a slow burn, filled with stolen glances, witty conversations, and a growing sense of connection. Their chemistry is palpable, proving that love can blossom at any age. The portrayal of their relationship is both heartwarming and refreshing, as it defies typical ageist tropes in romance fiction.
Guillory’s signature wit and humor shine through in the dialogue, creating a lighthearted and enjoyable reading experience. The festive setting, with its descriptions of holiday decorations, traditions, and food, adds to the overall charm of the story.
However, some readers may find the plot somewhat predictable and lacking in depth. The focus on the central romance leaves little room for exploring other characters or subplots, which might disappoint those who enjoy more complex narratives.
Overall, Royal Holiday is a delightful and heartwarming read that’s perfect for curling up with on a cold winter night. It’s a reminder that love knows no age or boundaries, and that sometimes the most unexpected journeys can lead to the greatest adventures.
To Summarise
A Royal Retreat for the Heart
What Works:
- Charming Romance: The connection between Vivian and Malcolm is sweet, mature, and undeniably heartwarming.
- Holiday Spirit: The festive setting and descriptions of traditions create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
- Representation: The novel features a diverse cast of characters, including a strong and independent woman in her fifties finding love.
- Easy Reading: Guillory’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making it a quick and enjoyable read.
Room for Improvement:
- Predictable Plot: The storyline follows a familiar romance formula, with few surprises along the way.
- Surface-Level Exploration: While the royal setting is intriguing, the novel doesn’t delve deeply into the complexities of royal life.
Overall Impression:
Royal Holiday is a delightful and heartwarming romance novel that captures the magic of the holiday season and the thrill of unexpected love. While it may not be the most groundbreaking or thought-provoking story, it offers a charming escape and a reminder that love can blossom at any age.
Who Should Read It:
Fans of Jasmine Guillory’s previous novels, lovers of holiday romances, and anyone looking for a feel-good read filled with festive cheer, royal charm, and a touch of romance will enjoy Royal Holiday. It’s the perfect book to curl up with by the fire during the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the story of the royal holiday Jasmine Guillory?
Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory follows the story of Vivian Forest, who accompanies her daughter Maddie on a work trip to England over the Christmas holidays. While Maddie works, Vivian explores the royal estate and meets Malcolm Hudson, the Queen’s charming private secretary. As sparks fly between Vivian and Malcolm, they embark on a holiday romance, discovering love and companionship despite their different worlds. The novel explores themes of unexpected romance, cultural differences, and the magic of the holiday season.
Do Jasmine Guillory books go in order?
Jasmine Guillory’s books do not need to be read in strict order, as each novel can stand alone. However, there is a recommended reading order that follows the sequence of characters and their interconnected stories:
- The Wedding Date (2018)
- The Proposal (2018)
- The Wedding Party (2019)
- Royal Holiday (2019)
- Party of Two (2020)
- While We Were Dating (2021)
Reading them in this order provides a richer understanding of recurring characters and their relationships.
What is the age rating for Royal Holiday?
Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory is generally recommended for readers aged 18 and up. The novel includes mature themes and romantic scenes that may be more suitable for an adult audience.
Is Royal holiday spicy?
Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory is less spicy compared to some of her other novels. While it does contain romantic and intimate scenes, the focus is more on the emotional connection and developing relationship between the main characters, Vivian and Malcolm, making it a heartwarming and charming read.
If you’re looking for a heartwarming escape filled with royal charm, holiday cheer, and a mature romance, Royal Holiday is the perfect book to add to your reading list. So, cozy up with a cup of hot cocoa and let Jasmine Guillory transport you to a world of festive romance and unexpected love.
