What do you think?
Rate this book
Royally Pitched #1
The Princess and the Player
Her Royal Highness, Eleanor Altamirano, lives a structured life dictated by both her position and experiences. Plagued by panic attacks, Ele requires predictability in her schedule. Directed by the crown prince to cover an appearance with the National Football team, she reluctantly attends.
One of the most recognizable footballers, Tristan Davenport lives large and publicly, entertaining the masses with his frequent social media posts. Chosen to be a representative to meet the royal delegation, Tristan eagerly accepts.
It is supposed to be a staged meet-and-greet—not a tour, not a connection, not a kiss. Going off script for the first time in years, Ele relishes the adventure until a panic attack drives her away. She doesn’t get an opportunity to make amends until she is ordered to go to America as part of the delegation for the World Championship Cup. When her apology leads to more kisses, Tristan and Ele decide to mix royal and football business with pleasure.
But the championship lasts only a month, and Ele’s future is waiting. Responsible to her country and family, Ele knows their affair must end, but Tristan is a competitor who doesn’t want to come in second to anything—not even a kingdom.
One of the most recognizable footballers, Tristan Davenport lives large and publicly, entertaining the masses with his frequent social media posts. Chosen to be a representative to meet the royal delegation, Tristan eagerly accepts.
It is supposed to be a staged meet-and-greet—not a tour, not a connection, not a kiss. Going off script for the first time in years, Ele relishes the adventure until a panic attack drives her away. She doesn’t get an opportunity to make amends until she is ordered to go to America as part of the delegation for the World Championship Cup. When her apology leads to more kisses, Tristan and Ele decide to mix royal and football business with pleasure.
But the championship lasts only a month, and Ele’s future is waiting. Responsible to her country and family, Ele knows their affair must end, but Tristan is a competitor who doesn’t want to come in second to anything—not even a kingdom.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2020
About the author
J. Santiago
10 books79 followersJ. Santiago is a graduate of Villanova University and the University of Pennsylvania. She gets her love of sports from her fifteen year career in the field and a houseful of boys who love to play. A former English and history teacher, she understands and embraces the power of stories in our lives.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 1, 2022
He was a blinding, powerful sun, and she was a tiny nebula, swirling gas and dust trying to form into something. His pull was too great, and if she entered his orbit, she would never quite become who she was supposed to...
So bloody brilliant!! 5+ stars!
I've been eagerly awaiting this book ever since I first came across it, and guys I was not disappointed by it at all! I cannot believe that this was my first book by the lovely J. Santiago as I absolutely adored her writing style. The writing and pacing completely sucked me into the story, and I found myself unwilling to put the book down once I started. I have been so enamored with stories about royals lately, and this novel encompassed exactly what I have come to love about the trope.
He kissed away all of his confusion and doubts, finding answers he hadn't realized he was looking for... She molded to him perfectly, like she'd been created with him in mind or he had been fashioned specifically for her. With their lips fused and tongues dancing, Tristan could believe they had been made for each other, could forget all the differences and potential problems, could see past the crown to the woman destined to wear it.
Princess Eleanor, nicknamed the Ice Princess by the press, is second in line to the throne after witnessing the assassination of her parents when she was younger. Since that fateful and traumatic day, she has been plagued with debilitating panic attacks that she and the Royal House work to hide from the press. She keeps everyone around her at arm's length, unwilling to lower her walls for anyone, until she meets Tristan.
He wanted to muss up her perfect clothes. He longed to kneel before her as a subject before his queen and then to worship her as a man would a woman. And holy fuck, did he want her to kneel before him.
Tristan, nicknamed T-Dav by his fans, is everything Ele shouldn't want in her life. He bursts into her sheltered existence with a smile and zest for life that is entirely opposite to how she lives, but neither can seem to resist the pull of the other. The struggles they faced and the inescapable love they found was so beautifully and realistically portrayed. Neither character was perfect, but I was completely entranced by Tristan and Ele's journey. I cannot recommend this novel enough, and I cannot wait for the rest of the series to come out, especially with the surprises and hints we get at the end! ♡
My Tristan, aka T-Dav, the gregarious footballer whose love for social media is surpassed only by his love for Ele..
*ARC provided by Grey's Promo, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
October 23, 2020
Phew! This was a difficult book to read. It might be because of the slow pacing. The biggest problem I had with this book is the main character, Ele. I had a really hard time connecting to her and I was frustrated with her actions through most of it. She's got her issues and all but it was hard to empathize with her problems. Her entire life revolved around the media. There could've been scenes portraying her character's strengths in how she attends charities or helps people, but none of that is included in the book. I couldn't feel the chemistry between Ele and Tristan, it felt flat. I liked the ensemble characters, Robert was my favorite. I think the original idea was brilliant. Eleanor, the ice princess, and Tristan Davenport as this social media prince. They overcome their titles to be together, and I liked that part of the story, just not the way it was executed. I wasn't invested in them. The book got better as it neared its end, though. Ele toughens up, she sorts through her issues, becomes as independent as she can. The first person narrative would've worked better for this novel, especially with Ele's past and her emotions. The Princess and the Player is a slow, comfy read.
October 15, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the first book in a new series, and I think that the world building is done rather well - in fact we are given important information throughout the story, so it feels organic. I am definitely looking forward to future books, as we get some great hints of the direction that some plots may take.
Princess Eleanor has a secret; part of this is that she can have crippling panic attacks. When one happens when she is with leading footballer, Tristan Davenport, her entourage are staggered at how he manages to pull her around from the attack. Thus starts a complicated, but very secret and very passionate ... hookup? short term relationship? impossible romance? As they try and find time in between the football tournament in the States, and her royal duties, they get closer emotionally as well as physically, but protocol is not in their favour. We get to see that they go all in, even if the chances of it lasting in heart break are very high.
This is a fun mix of a sports romance and a royal one. I think it does a good job of setting up a situation which we want to succeed, but really everything is piled up against them. I am looking forward to seeing how the relationship develops in the next installment.
This is the first book in a new series, and I think that the world building is done rather well - in fact we are given important information throughout the story, so it feels organic. I am definitely looking forward to future books, as we get some great hints of the direction that some plots may take.
Princess Eleanor has a secret; part of this is that she can have crippling panic attacks. When one happens when she is with leading footballer, Tristan Davenport, her entourage are staggered at how he manages to pull her around from the attack. Thus starts a complicated, but very secret and very passionate ... hookup? short term relationship? impossible romance? As they try and find time in between the football tournament in the States, and her royal duties, they get closer emotionally as well as physically, but protocol is not in their favour. We get to see that they go all in, even if the chances of it lasting in heart break are very high.
This is a fun mix of a sports romance and a royal one. I think it does a good job of setting up a situation which we want to succeed, but really everything is piled up against them. I am looking forward to seeing how the relationship develops in the next installment.
October 26, 2020
The Princess and the Player is one of those books that I thought would be for me, but I found it wasn’t what I was expecting. I was ready for a deeply angsty read, one that had me invested, but I never connected with the characters in this one.
Although there was a lot of potential and the idea of this story was great, my inability to connect to the characters and their relationship made it that I didn’t much care for what was happening. I kept waiting for the connection to hit me hard, for me to fall deep for the characters, but it did not happen. Things were too flat for me and lacked the emotional punch I had hoped for.
I’m clearly in the minority with this one, though. Many seem to have enjoyed it, but it wasn’t for me.
Although there was a lot of potential and the idea of this story was great, my inability to connect to the characters and their relationship made it that I didn’t much care for what was happening. I kept waiting for the connection to hit me hard, for me to fall deep for the characters, but it did not happen. Things were too flat for me and lacked the emotional punch I had hoped for.
I’m clearly in the minority with this one, though. Many seem to have enjoyed it, but it wasn’t for me.
April 8, 2023
DNFd at page 70
This book is way too insta love for my taste and it just can’t hold my attention, the insta love just takes away any possibility of me getting invested. I also can’t connect with the characters.
If you don’t get bothered by insta love then this might be ok for you.
Thank you to the author for my copy, and the cover is still gorgeous so it looks really pretty on my shelf 💕
This book is way too insta love for my taste and it just can’t hold my attention, the insta love just takes away any possibility of me getting invested. I also can’t connect with the characters.
If you don’t get bothered by insta love then this might be ok for you.
Thank you to the author for my copy, and the cover is still gorgeous so it looks really pretty on my shelf 💕
October 29, 2020
This was okay.
I liked the start, the relationship between the heroine and her brother, the royal setting.
It is dual POV.
When it changed to the Hero POV I took a bit of time to get into his chapter or to particularly like him.
I don't know it just seemed a bit odd.
He's a huge social media poster and I'm not sure if it's just not my thing but ........
Obviously this is going to be an issue as she is royal and there are issues with privacy.
I also found that although the Hero and heroine felt an instant spark when they met, they got physical pretty quickly that just seemed unrealistic esp considering the heroine has a few issues.
The story was quite good after that, with the threat of other man drama that didn't actually end up being any drama but a bit of good old family interference.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
HEA.
Epilogue X2 setting up future books for other family members/ team mates.
I liked the start, the relationship between the heroine and her brother, the royal setting.
It is dual POV.
When it changed to the Hero POV I took a bit of time to get into his chapter or to particularly like him.
I don't know it just seemed a bit odd.
He's a huge social media poster and I'm not sure if it's just not my thing but ........
Obviously this is going to be an issue as she is royal and there are issues with privacy.
I also found that although the Hero and heroine felt an instant spark when they met, they got physical pretty quickly that just seemed unrealistic esp considering the heroine has a few issues.
The story was quite good after that, with the threat of other man drama that didn't actually end up being any drama but a bit of good old family interference.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
HEA.
Epilogue X2 setting up future books for other family members/ team mates.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2020
Check out our full post for THE PRINCESS AND THE PLAYER on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the first book in a new series, and I think that the world building is done rather well – in fact, we are given important information throughout the story, so it feels organic. I am definitely looking forward to future books, as we get some great hints of the direction that some plots may take.
Princess Eleanor has a secret; part of this is that she can have crippling panic attacks. When one happens when she is with leading footballer, Tristan Davenport, her entourage are staggered at how he manages to pull her around from the attack. Thus starts a complicated, but very secret and very passionate... hookup? Short-term relationship? Impossible romance? As they try and find time in between the football tournament in the States and her royal duties, they get closer emotionally as well as physically, but protocol is not in their favour. We get to see that they go all in, even if the chances of it ending in heart break are very high.
This is a fun mix of a sports romance and a royal one. I think it does a good job of setting up a situation which we want to succeed, but really everything is piled up against them. I am looking forward to seeing how the relationship develops in the next installment.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
October 20, 2020
This was my first book by this author and not gonna lie I struggled a good bit. Princess Eleanor lives by order and if her life isn't just right she has crippling panic attacks. Tristian is a footballer and loves the spotlight so he's the exact opposite of her. But when she's on a tour and has a panic attack Tristian is able to help her much to her peoples shock. I wasn't sure how this was gonna work she imhad strict rules and he is so carefree and spirited. I will say the ending to there journey was worth the read.
October 20, 2020
Princess Eleanor is expected to take up responsibilities for her country. She has panic attacks. She meets Tristan, a footballer and he is able to help her in a way no one else has before. A secret love affair begins when the couple meet again at the Word Championship Cup tournament. Tristan is competitive and not used to coming in second. Can the couple work things out or will they crash and burn? A wonderful read.
October 28, 2020
i had a hardddd time getting into this one. i couldn’t really tell you why? pacing maybe?
anyway, i liked to story & felt like the characters were well written! i’m more excited for the upcoming books in this series though i think.
if you’re looking for a royals / sports romance, check this one out! i enjoyed the last half a lot better than the first half.
thanks to greys for the arc!
anyway, i liked to story & felt like the characters were well written! i’m more excited for the upcoming books in this series though i think.
if you’re looking for a royals / sports romance, check this one out! i enjoyed the last half a lot better than the first half.
thanks to greys for the arc!
October 25, 2020
I haven't read a royal romance in a while. Even though this was kind of hard to read because it was too slow for my liking, it was still a decent read. I loved the issue the author was trying to address right here through Eleanor. I loved how Tristan handled Eleanor when she's having her panic attacks. It was kind of sweet. They balance each other out. It wasn’t easy for them but it's worth it.
And their story is worth your time if you enjoy royal/sports romance.
And their story is worth your time if you enjoy royal/sports romance.
December 14, 2022
love Ele and Tristan
Ele is a princess and has and doesn’t like the spotlight. Her twin brother Prince Jaime can’t make the first football day so Ele goes. She meets Tristan and they have an connection. A princess and a baller have no future or do they ? Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing Book. Love Ele and Tristan. The supporting characters are amazing and there are some secrets that come out. This is my first book by this author definitely not the last.
Ele is a princess and has and doesn’t like the spotlight. Her twin brother Prince Jaime can’t make the first football day so Ele goes. She meets Tristan and they have an connection. A princess and a baller have no future or do they ? Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing Book. Love Ele and Tristan. The supporting characters are amazing and there are some secrets that come out. This is my first book by this author definitely not the last.
October 19, 2020
I honestly did like this book. I wish Goodreads let you do half stars, because this was more of a 3 1/2, but whatever. The meat of the story was solid, and I really enjoyed Princess Eleanor. A story of two people from two very different worlds is always intriguing to me, and I really liked that it wasn't a royal and an average Joe, but was instead a royal and a pro athlete. I think the unique twist of both people being celebrities added a level to the story, and it was an interesting approach.
One of the biggest things in this book is the subject of mental health, and I actually really like the way Santiago approached it. Ele suffers from panic attacks, and the way in which they were discussed and her situation was treated is pretty reminiscent of how a lot of people feel they have to approach the subject every day. Ele's panic attacks and anxiety are NOT discussed because it could shine a poor light on the royal family, and there are a lot of people in the world today who actually would agree with that; that mental health is shameful and anxiety is just something you figure out. I don't know if I would totally agree that just one person's presence can instantly calm you down and fix everything, but the sentiment is nice, and I like that Tristan was there for Ele and forced her to think about things and acknowledge what she was carrying.
But let's talk about Tristan, now that I've brought him up. Kind of meh about him, to be honest. He was a fine hero, he was good for Ele in the long run, but like, *shrug*. I don't know. I didn't really feel a pull towards him, and I kind of supremely HATED the social media/caption thing he had going on. That could also be on me, though. I know we're all super addicted to social media these days so the call-out to that hit me right in the chest. It did provide an interesting dichotomy: Tristan so loud and large with how he connects with people and lives his life, while Ele is more of a recluse and wants nothing to do with being in the public eye. That avenue did make things interesting, and I can respect the decision to include that, even if it did make me squirm.
Overall, this book was fun. It was a bit meaty, and definitely a bit lengthier than I think it needed to be (that or it didn't totally keep my focus) but it was fine. I enjoyed the overall story, and I loved the sort of star-crossed thing Ele and Tristan had going on. Ele was great, I loved her, this is definitely a book I'll recommend to people looking for either royalty or sports romance. It's a solid option in either of those categories.
Plus I loved that they were from a foreign nation (think Mia Thermopalis, Princess of Genovia) and so Julie Andrews was the steady constant accent in my head. I supremely loved that.
**Many thanks to the author for a review copy of this book!**
One of the biggest things in this book is the subject of mental health, and I actually really like the way Santiago approached it. Ele suffers from panic attacks, and the way in which they were discussed and her situation was treated is pretty reminiscent of how a lot of people feel they have to approach the subject every day. Ele's panic attacks and anxiety are NOT discussed because it could shine a poor light on the royal family, and there are a lot of people in the world today who actually would agree with that; that mental health is shameful and anxiety is just something you figure out. I don't know if I would totally agree that just one person's presence can instantly calm you down and fix everything, but the sentiment is nice, and I like that Tristan was there for Ele and forced her to think about things and acknowledge what she was carrying.
But let's talk about Tristan, now that I've brought him up. Kind of meh about him, to be honest. He was a fine hero, he was good for Ele in the long run, but like, *shrug*. I don't know. I didn't really feel a pull towards him, and I kind of supremely HATED the social media/caption thing he had going on. That could also be on me, though. I know we're all super addicted to social media these days so the call-out to that hit me right in the chest. It did provide an interesting dichotomy: Tristan so loud and large with how he connects with people and lives his life, while Ele is more of a recluse and wants nothing to do with being in the public eye. That avenue did make things interesting, and I can respect the decision to include that, even if it did make me squirm.
Overall, this book was fun. It was a bit meaty, and definitely a bit lengthier than I think it needed to be (that or it didn't totally keep my focus) but it was fine. I enjoyed the overall story, and I loved the sort of star-crossed thing Ele and Tristan had going on. Ele was great, I loved her, this is definitely a book I'll recommend to people looking for either royalty or sports romance. It's a solid option in either of those categories.
Plus I loved that they were from a foreign nation (think Mia Thermopalis, Princess of Genovia) and so Julie Andrews was the steady constant accent in my head. I supremely loved that.
**Many thanks to the author for a review copy of this book!**
October 20, 2020
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
So this is an author I have never read before but I was in love with this story. I really could not put it down. It was very original, intriguing and had a wonderful set of characters.
It is a romance between a very royal white woman and a football playing, brown skin colored man. He was referred to as Nava so I am not sure what race he fell into but the story mentions that he is of a different race to her as one of the issues relating them being together. But between Tristan and Ele it was never mentioned or as an issue.
Ele is very fragile woman I guess you can say. She lost both parents when she was 16 and she has suffered over the loss for the last 12 years with horrible panic attacks. She is the twin sister and 2nd inline for the throne to her twin brother who is a BIG football fan of a team in the United States.
He requests she goes to a tour of the football stadium to show goodwill and thats how she meets Tristan. The two meet and form an immediate connection but Ele hates the public and is known as the Ice Princess and Tristan loves being in the public eye. He posts about everyone and everything in his life. But something magical happens on this trip between T and E and so the prince decides that Ele needs to spend more time with the football team.
And so starts a really engrossing and wonderful romance. Tristan is this awesome guy and he never betrays Ele. In fact I loved how honest he is with her about everything. Ele learns and grows and she changes but her life is not free and so she has some major decisions ahead of her.
I adored this romance and I am really excited to see what other stories the author will tell in this series. I loved Rowan and Juliana and hope they get a story. At times there were some aspects which made me think that at some point the author will have a bisexual story and/or a MM story. Not related to this story but more in relation to some of the supporting characters in this story.
So this is an author I have never read before but I was in love with this story. I really could not put it down. It was very original, intriguing and had a wonderful set of characters.
It is a romance between a very royal white woman and a football playing, brown skin colored man. He was referred to as Nava so I am not sure what race he fell into but the story mentions that he is of a different race to her as one of the issues relating them being together. But between Tristan and Ele it was never mentioned or as an issue.
Ele is very fragile woman I guess you can say. She lost both parents when she was 16 and she has suffered over the loss for the last 12 years with horrible panic attacks. She is the twin sister and 2nd inline for the throne to her twin brother who is a BIG football fan of a team in the United States.
He requests she goes to a tour of the football stadium to show goodwill and thats how she meets Tristan. The two meet and form an immediate connection but Ele hates the public and is known as the Ice Princess and Tristan loves being in the public eye. He posts about everyone and everything in his life. But something magical happens on this trip between T and E and so the prince decides that Ele needs to spend more time with the football team.
And so starts a really engrossing and wonderful romance. Tristan is this awesome guy and he never betrays Ele. In fact I loved how honest he is with her about everything. Ele learns and grows and she changes but her life is not free and so she has some major decisions ahead of her.
I adored this romance and I am really excited to see what other stories the author will tell in this series. I loved Rowan and Juliana and hope they get a story. At times there were some aspects which made me think that at some point the author will have a bisexual story and/or a MM story. Not related to this story but more in relation to some of the supporting characters in this story.
November 9, 2020
I don't know what's been going on but these sports romances have me sucked in at the moment! And Im super here for it. I really had no clue what I was going to be reading since this is the first on I have read from J. Santiago and let me say I really did not want this story to end! It really did leave me wanting more and I am so hoping that there is a follow up to this story.
I will say when I first started reading it I did get a little confused with where the story was actually going and had to put it down but I want to try again and I am glad that I did. The story 100% starts to play out after the first chapter.
Princess Elenor or Ele as she is to her family and close friends has truly been through it all. Having dealt with the loss of her parents, her brother (the prince) battling cancer, and her own internal battles, she has never had a normal life. Known to the outside world as the Ice Princess, the people only see what's she like on the outside.
Tristan Davenport is a star in his own right. He is a football player (soccer in American terms) and to everyone around him he has it all.
By a chance meeting these two come in contact with each other and what happens between them was and can be summed up as a pure connection. Tristan seems to be for some reason the only one that can pull Ele out from her darkness.
This in all leads to an amazing love story that I did not want to quit reading. I laughed, I smiled, and I cried along with this story!
"You know, there are moments, seemingly innocuous events in our lives, that push us in a different direction or open a door or become a catalyst for change. We don't realize it at the time, but later, with distance and perspective, we can look back and pinpoint exactly when our lives changed."
I give this book a solid 4.5/out of 5 stars.
I would like to thank Grey Promotions for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
I will say when I first started reading it I did get a little confused with where the story was actually going and had to put it down but I want to try again and I am glad that I did. The story 100% starts to play out after the first chapter.
Princess Elenor or Ele as she is to her family and close friends has truly been through it all. Having dealt with the loss of her parents, her brother (the prince) battling cancer, and her own internal battles, she has never had a normal life. Known to the outside world as the Ice Princess, the people only see what's she like on the outside.
Tristan Davenport is a star in his own right. He is a football player (soccer in American terms) and to everyone around him he has it all.
By a chance meeting these two come in contact with each other and what happens between them was and can be summed up as a pure connection. Tristan seems to be for some reason the only one that can pull Ele out from her darkness.
This in all leads to an amazing love story that I did not want to quit reading. I laughed, I smiled, and I cried along with this story!
"You know, there are moments, seemingly innocuous events in our lives, that push us in a different direction or open a door or become a catalyst for change. We don't realize it at the time, but later, with distance and perspective, we can look back and pinpoint exactly when our lives changed."
I give this book a solid 4.5/out of 5 stars.
I would like to thank Grey Promotions for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
October 24, 2020
The Princess and the Player by J. Santiago is the first book in the Royally Pitched series and had me thoroughly enchanted and engaged from start to finish!
I had so many FEELS reading this book! Ele is so sweet, so caring, and loves her family dearly, willing to do whatever it takes if it'll help them. And I adore Jamie and definitely need more of him STAT! But Ele? She has a heavy burden on her shoulders and I just want her to find someone to share that weight with.
Enter Tristan, national icon, sports player and personality with his star on the rise. He's a bit of a hot head and acts like he has an attitude but deep down is an honest to goodness good guy, and seeing that get revealed put a smile on my face with all the crazy antics!
And their chemistry? GOODNESS GRACIOUS but it was FIRE!
With each page I became more certain that I've discovered a new favorite author, and I cannot wait to see what gets written next! Now, get your hands on a copy of this story and fall in love with all of the amazing characters just like I did. I promise, you won't regret it! And, there's some excellent pining and groveling, just to sweeten the pot!
P. S. Everyone needs a Robert and a Millie. They made my heart swell. So I need their stories, and Sheena's and basically everyone's!
P. P. S. Please tell me we're going to find out more about Rowan? And Jules? And, do we get Nico's story at some point too? Also, more Jamie, please! So many hints, and now I would like to see them all fulfilled, please and thank you!
I had so many FEELS reading this book! Ele is so sweet, so caring, and loves her family dearly, willing to do whatever it takes if it'll help them. And I adore Jamie and definitely need more of him STAT! But Ele? She has a heavy burden on her shoulders and I just want her to find someone to share that weight with.
Enter Tristan, national icon, sports player and personality with his star on the rise. He's a bit of a hot head and acts like he has an attitude but deep down is an honest to goodness good guy, and seeing that get revealed put a smile on my face with all the crazy antics!
And their chemistry? GOODNESS GRACIOUS but it was FIRE!
With each page I became more certain that I've discovered a new favorite author, and I cannot wait to see what gets written next! Now, get your hands on a copy of this story and fall in love with all of the amazing characters just like I did. I promise, you won't regret it! And, there's some excellent pining and groveling, just to sweeten the pot!
P. S. Everyone needs a Robert and a Millie. They made my heart swell. So I need their stories, and Sheena's and basically everyone's!
P. P. S. Please tell me we're going to find out more about Rowan? And Jules? And, do we get Nico's story at some point too? Also, more Jamie, please! So many hints, and now I would like to see them all fulfilled, please and thank you!
October 21, 2020
Princess Eleanor has severe panic attacks which everyone wants to keep secret, but it's made her a recluse since she can't let it get out. She ends up having to do some royal duties which has her coming face to face with footballer, Tristan, who lives his life loud & proud as he is okay with being in the public. That meeting ends in a sexy kiss, but the panic attack comes. Another royal duty sees Ele going to the states for the tournament he's participating in, and they start on a secret journey since he can ground her when an attack comes. However, she's royal while he's not, so the future isn't exactly bright for them as she has a duty to her country, but he's not going to let her go. I really liked how this author took on the mental health issue in this story as it really came off realistically for the most part, and it's time that all people learn that mental health doesn't have to be shameful for those who suffer with it. And now, I'm already impatient for the next book because I need to know how this will all play out! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
October 25, 2020
I am always looking to find new to me authors. When I saw this cover I knew I had to at least try it. This is not a fake royal book. This is a real royal book where she is the crown Princess and has to follow all sorts of protocol. I loved that it was not a play on royal. I loved that it was also a mixed race relationship, but it was not made into a big deal. The bigger deal was the difference in their worlds. Ele is the shy princess with a serious anxiety/PTSD disorder. She falls in instant lust with the out there social media loving football(soccer) player. I love the idea of a soccer player because I love some thick thighs on a man. Tristan is exactly what this timid girl needed to find her fierce self again. I love all the pomp and circumstance of it all. I’d like to think that with the world evolving the crown must as well. The sex is hot, I only wish there was more dirty talk. And some more build up. But I want the other books. I’m all in to find the rest of the royals stories and to see how they will change the world. I’m excited to see where this author goes.
October 21, 2020
Ima sucker for a royal romance and when the royal happens to be a female i get a little extra excited.
So frequently royal romances involve Prince's sweeping girls off their feet so when it happens in reverse ima happy happy girl.
Ele, has been living with PTSD for years. Shes had to cover up her mental health for the good of her people. When she is sent in her brother's stead to a soccer event she meets Tristan a star footballer. And he sets her at complete ease. It's basically love at first sight and its perfection.
Their love isn't all cheesy, though id still love that.
They seem to help each other in ways they had never imagined.
Their love was a secret in the night. They had to protect each other from the fall 0ut that would occur had they been able to live out loud.
listen, i expected a regular lovely romance and then I got twists. jaw on the floor, wtf happened moments. It was spectacular.
So frequently royal romances involve Prince's sweeping girls off their feet so when it happens in reverse ima happy happy girl.
Ele, has been living with PTSD for years. Shes had to cover up her mental health for the good of her people. When she is sent in her brother's stead to a soccer event she meets Tristan a star footballer. And he sets her at complete ease. It's basically love at first sight and its perfection.
Their love isn't all cheesy, though id still love that.
They seem to help each other in ways they had never imagined.
Their love was a secret in the night. They had to protect each other from the fall 0ut that would occur had they been able to live out loud.
listen, i expected a regular lovely romance and then I got twists. jaw on the floor, wtf happened moments. It was spectacular.
October 21, 2020
I wanted to read this story after reading the blurb, I was excited! Plus this is my first J Santiago novel. I must say I was not disappointed. The story is a page-turner, it is well thought out and the characters draw you in. I will be reading the rest of this series and even more from her.
One the outside, Eleanor is the Ice Princess but as you read you understand the reason she may appear that way. Tristan is seen as the social media prince, but his reason for using social media was so innocent. We see growth in the characters throughout the story which I especially loved.
The connection between Princess Eleanor and the footballer Tristan is amazing. It starts from the moment they met and it is phenomenal! Can a princess and a footballer of different races have a real relationship? Can love bring two different worlds together?
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Happily Ever After, Page-turner, Wonderful characters
One the outside, Eleanor is the Ice Princess but as you read you understand the reason she may appear that way. Tristan is seen as the social media prince, but his reason for using social media was so innocent. We see growth in the characters throughout the story which I especially loved.
The connection between Princess Eleanor and the footballer Tristan is amazing. It starts from the moment they met and it is phenomenal! Can a princess and a footballer of different races have a real relationship? Can love bring two different worlds together?
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Happily Ever After, Page-turner, Wonderful characters
October 19, 2020
A Princess with Panic Attacks and thanks to her family gets sent to the National Football teams' place where she meets the new star T-Dav, Tristan who has a way that makes her calm and able to breath. Eleanor hides from the limelight where he goes for it, she ends up going to the States to watch the World Cup where she starts her relationship with Tristan. He brings out the best of her and the same other way around. I really enjoyed this story as it was sport and royal romance in one! We get some real sibling love, royal drama, teammates, love, pasts, and the HEA. Also a good amount of steam in this one!
Oh and the ending gave some hints at least a couple more books! I can't wait to read more of this series! J's writing really locks you in for this book. You want to know what happens but you will be happy, want to cry, and be joyful in the end.
Overall, 4 stars and 4 steam
Oh and the ending gave some hints at least a couple more books! I can't wait to read more of this series! J's writing really locks you in for this book. You want to know what happens but you will be happy, want to cry, and be joyful in the end.
Overall, 4 stars and 4 steam
October 19, 2020
The Princess and The Player was an unexpected surprise. Princess Eleanor meets Footballer Tristan during a tour of the player’s facilities and they have an instant connection, but how can a sports star be with a member of the Royal family?
I loved how Tristan helped Ele overcome her fears and she was able to grow into a stronger person. He gave her the strength to take the initiative to fight for what she wanted. Tristan was incredibly supportive of Ele and showered her with affection from the moment they met. On paper, these two did not make sense, but sometimes that’s what you need in your life.
This story was a charming and interesting twist on a royal romance. It was unexpectedly complicated and full of emotion. Tristan and Ele’s journey was not what I had expected, but I very much enjoyed all the twists and turns to their HEA.
I loved how Tristan helped Ele overcome her fears and she was able to grow into a stronger person. He gave her the strength to take the initiative to fight for what she wanted. Tristan was incredibly supportive of Ele and showered her with affection from the moment they met. On paper, these two did not make sense, but sometimes that’s what you need in your life.
This story was a charming and interesting twist on a royal romance. It was unexpectedly complicated and full of emotion. Tristan and Ele’s journey was not what I had expected, but I very much enjoyed all the twists and turns to their HEA.
October 20, 2020
The Princess and the Player is a very detailed book about a well-guarded princess and a world-renowned soccer player. Ele has a tragic past. In the beginning, we only get little snip-its of what may have occurred, resulting in uncontrollable panic attacks. However, when she meets Tristan, everything falls into place. He's the one person that can calm her and make her feel safe. I like how the story unfolds. They happen to be traveling to the same events, they have to carve out time with bodyguards to escape, and private time is hard to find and intense. This is what I feel real royalty protocols are like and what they have to go through. Everything is regulated and extremely protective. The side characters are well-described and give you a window into what future stories may contain. This is a sweet, endearing romance that is great for those who love royal romances.
October 23, 2020
3.5 stars
Opposites attract in this royal romance. She is a princess and he is a footballer. She is private and he is in the spotlight. Somehow they fit. They are of different racial backgrounds but it was not viewed negatively by those close to the story. Ele is the royal princess , her life is under a microscope. She is very proper and tries not to step out of line. She is dubbed the "Ice Princess". Tristan is on full display. Always posting on social media and does not mind the attention. If things get out of order, Ele has panic attacks. It seems Tristan has the magic touch and can calm her down. That is the beginning of their romance. There were some bumps in the road. Both characters had to grow and adjust. I enjoyed the story. It was easy to read, entertaining and had relatable characters with a HEA.
Opposites attract in this royal romance. She is a princess and he is a footballer. She is private and he is in the spotlight. Somehow they fit. They are of different racial backgrounds but it was not viewed negatively by those close to the story. Ele is the royal princess , her life is under a microscope. She is very proper and tries not to step out of line. She is dubbed the "Ice Princess". Tristan is on full display. Always posting on social media and does not mind the attention. If things get out of order, Ele has panic attacks. It seems Tristan has the magic touch and can calm her down. That is the beginning of their romance. There were some bumps in the road. Both characters had to grow and adjust. I enjoyed the story. It was easy to read, entertaining and had relatable characters with a HEA.
October 21, 2020
Elle endured a tragic loss more than a decade earlier, but the aftereffects still affect her daily life. She is more comfortable to remain in the background but when her brother asks her a favor she can’t say no and she now finds herself mingling in the football world when Tristan, one of the players, comes to her aid.
Tristan loves his football career and the celebrity status that goes along with it. He is enchanted by Elle from their first meeting but Elle being royalty and Tristan being a commoner is only part of the obstacles they must face. Will two people with very different pasts and lifestyles find a way to find their happy ever after?
Tristan is exactly what Elle needs in her life as he shows her that with love and support, they can overcome anything.
Tristan loves his football career and the celebrity status that goes along with it. He is enchanted by Elle from their first meeting but Elle being royalty and Tristan being a commoner is only part of the obstacles they must face. Will two people with very different pasts and lifestyles find a way to find their happy ever after?
Tristan is exactly what Elle needs in her life as he shows her that with love and support, they can overcome anything.
October 26, 2020
Enjoyable! I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This is my first time reading a book by J. Santiago. This story is about Princess Ele and Tristan. Tristan is a famous footballer who loves attention. Princess Eleanor has a secret, she sometimes has intense panic attacks. I loved the way Tristan handled Ele's panic attacks. Ele & Tristian had amazing chemistry and I enjoyed their banter. Tristian & Eleanor were imperfectly perfect for each other. Their journey wasn’t easy but worth it. This is my first book from this author and I can honestly say that I'm going to read more from this author. Keep up the great work! Can't wait to read more from you!
REVIEW BY CHANTELLE
REVIEW BY CHANTELLE
October 14, 2020
This was a very interesting read. Eleanor isn't your typical girl. She's a princess. And Tristan isn't an ordinary guy, he's on their country's National Team. Oh and he loves the spotlight. Circumstances put these two together. And Tristan sees more of Ele than she ever planned him to. But the connection and chemistry between them was palpable. Those around Ele could also see their connection. And the people around her wanted her to be happy. Ele's life requires strict rules and regulations. Tristan was a carefree kind of guy but they were good for each other! I enjoyed their journey and where life took them. If you enjoy a royal family, then I think you'll like this read!
October 20, 2020
Loved this book . The new take of the H being a princess not a prince is unique. The flow of the story was very good and the interaction between the characters was interesting. The sibling relationship and the reveal about Robert was surprising but one of my favorite part of the story . I absolutely loved the epilogue cuz I can guess what the next books are gonna be about . Looking forward to seeing Jamie's story . I think it would definitely be the most interesting .
I bet Rowan will turn out to be a titled royal himself and will see him with Julianna soon enough . Absolutely love this author 🤩.
Looking forward to more .
I bet Rowan will turn out to be a titled royal himself and will see him with Julianna soon enough . Absolutely love this author 🤩.
Looking forward to more .
October 22, 2020
This was more a 3.5 star book for me. The writing was okay for the most part, but it didn't hold my attention as well as I would have liked. I liked Ele and I thought that her anxiety was written realistically. I liked Tristan, but the needing to hashtag and post everything got a little old after awhile. Their story was sweet, and I liked that Tristan was able to bring Ele out of her shell some. It was a long way there, but they get their HEA. The epilogue was more of an intro for the next story. I would have liked a little look into Ele and Tristan's future. This was a first for me from this author, but I would read her again.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
October 23, 2020
I was so excited to crack open this book...in all honesty for some reason it took me a little bit to get into the book. Not sure if it was the story...frame of mind I was in...but sooo happy I stuck with it. I’m going to go back and reread the beginning to see if it was me or just the buildup in the story.
This book holds struggles and secrets from someone who needs to look like they have it all pulled together and is flawless. Putting on the ultimate facade. Finding an escape may be just what is needed to overcome her secret.
Coming from two different worlds...they both have a missing piece the other needs to compete them. Will their differences overcome what can make them whole?
This book holds struggles and secrets from someone who needs to look like they have it all pulled together and is flawless. Putting on the ultimate facade. Finding an escape may be just what is needed to overcome her secret.
Coming from two different worlds...they both have a missing piece the other needs to compete them. Will their differences overcome what can make them whole?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews