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Wedded Bliss #1
The Reluctant Bride
One moment I’m the forgotten daughter of one of the most wealthy families in the country, and the next I’m the blushing bride in an arranged marriage. My fate is sealed in my wedded union with a complete stranger.
In public, Perry Constantine is the life of the party. Easygoing. Adored. In private, he’s brooding. Dark. Angry. But so am I. It’s a contest of wills to see who will break in the bedroom first, and while I try to remain strong, I find myself craving the very man I swore to hate.
My husband.
In public, Perry Constantine is the life of the party. Easygoing. Adored. In private, he’s brooding. Dark. Angry. But so am I. It’s a contest of wills to see who will break in the bedroom first, and while I try to remain strong, I find myself craving the very man I swore to hate.
My husband.
243 pages, ebook
First published April 19, 2022
1974 people are currently reading
12733 people want to read
About the author
Monica Murphy
106 books18.6k followersNew York Times, USA Today and international bestselling author. A believer in kissing. A believer of love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,187 reviews
April 12, 2022
The very first chapter Perry Constantine got his hooks into me and didn't let go, this is how a slow burn romance should be written!! I was under this authors spell. A modern day arranged marriage. easy to get into, hard to put down, highly enjoyable. This is the first time I've met Perry but I instantly connected with his character.
He swears a lot, like a lot lot, cracks me up with this fuck no's and fuck that's and it didn't take me long at all to fall under his spell.
Charlotte Lancaster is endearing, she so unlike any character I have encountered before, one misdemeanor has her under the thumb of her father and locked away in a gilded cage. Even though at first she was against marrying Perry this was her escape from an overbearing father.
Neither of these two want to get married but his reaction to the news was by far the most humorous and that's where I knew I was going to love this book. Be aware that it does end up being a cliffy so I'm overly excited to see where this author takes us with this couple. They were perfectly matched and bravo to his mother for playing matchmaker. Even though it was a marriage of convenience, fake at that these two fast grew attracted to the other.
* Teaser used is the authors *
April 21, 2022
Seriously this needed to be a trilogy, why??
How are Perry and Charlotte going to carry three books when they were both so bland and uninteresting?
This whole book was so boring, nothing happens, the plot kept dragging and the repetitiveness exhausted me😖 the real action started in the last chapter. ugh.😤
How are Perry and Charlotte going to carry three books when they were both so bland and uninteresting?
This whole book was so boring, nothing happens, the plot kept dragging and the repetitiveness exhausted me😖 the real action started in the last chapter. ugh.😤
April 11, 2023
•| ⊱✿⊰ |• 4,9 Stars •| ⊱✿⊰ |•
This is Perry Constantine's story.
I was hoping for his story since I've read
.And it's a different character in here, the way he dresses and all...
Perry is 24 years old, I thought he was older...
Charlotte is 20 years old and Caroline Constantine arranged this marriage with the Lancaster family, without the bride and groom consent.
Perry is the only single Constantine.
Winston is married to Ash
and Keaton is with Iris
So he's the only choice that Caroline have to belong to the Lancaster family.
He's also the only one that she can manipulate, the favourite son.
Charlotte is the only Lancaster female, and due to a scandal when she went abroad, to Paris to study, and return with a broken heart, her father never let her leave the house again.
He's an old fashion man, with a misogyny mentality.
Though, both Perry and Charlotte didn't agree with this marriage, they don't have a choice.
And Charlotte begins to see it as a chance to escape her father control.
Perry starts to feel attracted to Charlotte.
Also, they have to convince everyone this marriage is for real.
So they have to kiss...
And sparkles fly when they do it.
Perry starts to feel Charlotte as if she was his, he wants to protect her, to save her from her father.
To be her knight in shining armour.
And though Perry prefer brunettes, this blond girl is getting under his skin.
The marriage day is coming up, and this seems so perfect, they became closer with each other, so we're waiting for something to happen...
And it will happen...
This won't be a Constantine story if the Morellis weren't involved.
Oh, it's also funny to see Lucian in the rehearsal dinner, since at this time, he's married to Elaine Constantine
April 19, 2022
Plot - i wanna marry him, i dont wanna marry him. I wanna marry her, i dont wanna marry her
Perry pov - she is hot- i am not attracted to her- i wanna fuck her- i dont wanna marry her - she is mine- i wanna marry her- mommas boy - i am not attracted to her
Charlotte pov - daddy issues - perry is hot- i dont wanna marry him- i am not attracted to him- i wanna fuck him - men are bad and my ex is shit- i got heart broken - i am not attracted to perry- i wanna marry him
This seems confusing? Its the whole story in the same pattern
Perry pov - she is hot- i am not attracted to her- i wanna fuck her- i dont wanna marry her - she is mine- i wanna marry her- mommas boy - i am not attracted to her
Charlotte pov - daddy issues - perry is hot- i dont wanna marry him- i am not attracted to him- i wanna fuck him - men are bad and my ex is shit- i got heart broken - i am not attracted to perry- i wanna marry him
This seems confusing? Its the whole story in the same pattern
Read
April 19, 2022You are invited to the most prestigious wedding of the season.
THE RELUCTANT BRIDE is now live! This is the first book in the Wedded Bliss series featuring the golden child, Perry Constantine!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ZhKkRf
Amazon INTL: https://bit.ly/3zpC7Xa
Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/3nOPnTs
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2XEeyNH
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3kp1Fj7
Google Play: https://bit.ly/3EZPSA5
READ A SHORT EXCERPT:
“I should probably kiss you again. While we’re having an intimate conversation. Just the two of us.”
He raises that single brow.
Ugh. It’s kind of sexy, that move.
“Fine. Just get it over with.” I quickly glance around the room one more time with a smile plastered on my face, but it feels forced so I let it fade.
When I return my attention to him, I see that he’s watching me with a stormy expression on his face.
“Get it over with?” He sounds vaguely insulted. “Was it that much of a hardship, being kissed by me earlier?”
“It wasn’t much of a kiss at all, if I’m being truthful.”
“Really.”
“Yes. Really.”
Without warning he hauls me into his arms, until I’m pressed so tight against him you couldn’t slip a piece of paper between us. His fingers curl beneath my chin, tilting my head back so my lips are perfectly aligned with his.
“Here’s a kiss for you then,” he murmurs.
Just before his lips crash down on mine.
This kiss is nothing like the first one, which only consisted of a little spark. A flash of heat before it was gone.
No, this kiss is all fire and tongue and hunger. His hand slips down, until he’s touching my ass and his fingers tighten around my chin, keeping me in place as he devours my mouth with his. All I can do is cling helplessly to him, my hand finding his chest, his wildly beating heart beneath my palm.
He breaks the kiss, taking a step back, his chest rising and falling. “How was that?”
I can’t find my words. All I can do is nod.
The look on his face is smug.
“That’s what I thought. Shall we talk to more of our guests? Thank them for coming?”
How he can act so smooth and unaffected is mind blowing.
***************
"A modern day arranged marriage between two powerful families... Charlotte Lancaster and Perry Constantine brought all the feels, angst, tension, and heat. Dive into this exciting series!" - USA Today bestselling author Natasha Boyd
"A fiery, slow burn that explodes with chemistry and achingly perfect tension. Monica Murphy has written a sizzling masterpiece." - USA Today bestselling author Marni Mann
"Monica Murphy's slow burn romance will leave you squirming!" - #1 New York Times bestselling author Helen Hardt
THE RELUCTANT BRIDE is now live! This is the first book in the Wedded Bliss series featuring the golden child, Perry Constantine!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ZhKkRf
Amazon INTL: https://bit.ly/3zpC7Xa
Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/3nOPnTs
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2XEeyNH
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3kp1Fj7
Google Play: https://bit.ly/3EZPSA5
READ A SHORT EXCERPT:
“I should probably kiss you again. While we’re having an intimate conversation. Just the two of us.”
He raises that single brow.
Ugh. It’s kind of sexy, that move.
“Fine. Just get it over with.” I quickly glance around the room one more time with a smile plastered on my face, but it feels forced so I let it fade.
When I return my attention to him, I see that he’s watching me with a stormy expression on his face.
“Get it over with?” He sounds vaguely insulted. “Was it that much of a hardship, being kissed by me earlier?”
“It wasn’t much of a kiss at all, if I’m being truthful.”
“Really.”
“Yes. Really.”
Without warning he hauls me into his arms, until I’m pressed so tight against him you couldn’t slip a piece of paper between us. His fingers curl beneath my chin, tilting my head back so my lips are perfectly aligned with his.
“Here’s a kiss for you then,” he murmurs.
Just before his lips crash down on mine.
This kiss is nothing like the first one, which only consisted of a little spark. A flash of heat before it was gone.
No, this kiss is all fire and tongue and hunger. His hand slips down, until he’s touching my ass and his fingers tighten around my chin, keeping me in place as he devours my mouth with his. All I can do is cling helplessly to him, my hand finding his chest, his wildly beating heart beneath my palm.
He breaks the kiss, taking a step back, his chest rising and falling. “How was that?”
I can’t find my words. All I can do is nod.
The look on his face is smug.
“That’s what I thought. Shall we talk to more of our guests? Thank them for coming?”
How he can act so smooth and unaffected is mind blowing.
***************
"A modern day arranged marriage between two powerful families... Charlotte Lancaster and Perry Constantine brought all the feels, angst, tension, and heat. Dive into this exciting series!" - USA Today bestselling author Natasha Boyd
"A fiery, slow burn that explodes with chemistry and achingly perfect tension. Monica Murphy has written a sizzling masterpiece." - USA Today bestselling author Marni Mann
"Monica Murphy's slow burn romance will leave you squirming!" - #1 New York Times bestselling author Helen Hardt
April 18, 2022
4 STARS
I love a good crossover, and I've been eagerly anticipating this installment in the Midnight Dynasty universe.
If you've read Monica's Things I Wanted To Say and A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime then you're already familiar with the Lancasters. Charlotte is Crew's sister from A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime. If you've read that book and remember the quick mention of her arranged marriage to a man she barely knows, this is the story.
Perry Constantine is the fun loving Constantine who will do anything to please his mother. And while a marriage to a woman he doesn't know may be stretching it, he'd do that too. If you've read Stroke of Midnight then you've already met his older brother. But where Winston was intense and overwhelming, Perry is the more light hearted brother, though no less intense.
When you're not even 25, marriage is the last thing on your mind. Especially when that marriage is essentially a business deal put in motion by your mother and your bride wants nothing to do with you. But as with all things Midnight Dynasty, nothing is at it seems.
This is a slow burn romance that really lays the foundation to the story. There's a lot of development that happens here, along with the budding relationship. And behind the traded insults and barbs, there's plenty of chemistry. I loved Perry's intensity almost as much as I love Charlotte's sassyness. She may look like the sheltered virgin, but she has plenty of secrets. I loved that she gave as hard as she got and really gave Perry a run for his money.
I can't wait to see what the next installment brings!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
I could fall in love with this man. And that’s the last thing I should do.
I love a good crossover, and I've been eagerly anticipating this installment in the Midnight Dynasty universe.
If you've read Monica's Things I Wanted To Say and A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime then you're already familiar with the Lancasters. Charlotte is Crew's sister from A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime. If you've read that book and remember the quick mention of her arranged marriage to a man she barely knows, this is the story.
Perry Constantine is the fun loving Constantine who will do anything to please his mother. And while a marriage to a woman he doesn't know may be stretching it, he'd do that too. If you've read Stroke of Midnight then you've already met his older brother. But where Winston was intense and overwhelming, Perry is the more light hearted brother, though no less intense.
When you're not even 25, marriage is the last thing on your mind. Especially when that marriage is essentially a business deal put in motion by your mother and your bride wants nothing to do with you. But as with all things Midnight Dynasty, nothing is at it seems.
This is a slow burn romance that really lays the foundation to the story. There's a lot of development that happens here, along with the budding relationship. And behind the traded insults and barbs, there's plenty of chemistry. I loved Perry's intensity almost as much as I love Charlotte's sassyness. She may look like the sheltered virgin, but she has plenty of secrets. I loved that she gave as hard as she got and really gave Perry a run for his money.
I can't wait to see what the next installment brings!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
April 22, 2022
1.25⭐️
the way this was a carbon copy of legit more than half of the midnight dynasty books but add way more daddy, mommy, and sibling issues and and a hatred to god knows what. i don't understand why YET again in this world there needs to be trilogies???? nothing happened in this book. nothing will happen in the next one. nothing will happen in the 3rd. its all bla bla bla bla bla.
at this point i kinda wanna call it quits with this world. its just the same exact story written in 40 diff ways.
the way this was a carbon copy of legit more than half of the midnight dynasty books but add way more daddy, mommy, and sibling issues and and a hatred to god knows what. i don't understand why YET again in this world there needs to be trilogies???? nothing happened in this book. nothing will happen in the next one. nothing will happen in the 3rd. its all bla bla bla bla bla.
at this point i kinda wanna call it quits with this world. its just the same exact story written in 40 diff ways.
Read
March 30, 2022The countdown is on - we are a month away from the release of 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙡𝙪𝙘𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝘽𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙚, coming April 19th!
Have you preordered it yet? 🥂
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ZSF2eX
Amazon INTL: https://bit.ly/3zpC7Xa
Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/3nOPnTs
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2XEeyNH
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3kp1Fj7
Google Play: https://bit.ly/3EZPSA5
💍 Add it to your TBR → bit.ly/39JeVcb
Have you preordered it yet? 🥂
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ZSF2eX
Amazon INTL: https://bit.ly/3zpC7Xa
Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/3nOPnTs
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2XEeyNH
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3kp1Fj7
Google Play: https://bit.ly/3EZPSA5
💍 Add it to your TBR → bit.ly/39JeVcb
April 21, 2022
This is my most anticipated book of the year and I’m not sure if I’m disappointed or satisfied.
How do you find your happiness when everything and everyone around you is completely fake?
Both Perry and Charlotte are interesting in that they straddle the line between spoiled and caged. There’s definitely a lot of problems that only the top 1% deal with. But at the same time I feel for them trying to find meaning, happiness, safety in a world that offers little but frivolity.
Good God! These two people are the most wishy washy, contrary assholes I’ve ever endured. Make up your damn mind.
Although the more I consider it, all the indecision makes sense. They’ve both been the obedient if not spoiled child. Everything not only laid before them but every decision made.
Omg the moment I think he might’ve began to earn Win’s respect. Pure gold. I’m loving this new Perry.
I hate Reginald Lancaster with every ounce of my being. And every freaking backwards, chauvinistic man like him!
The second half is certainly better than the first. Less back and forth, more entertaining drama.
As far as cliffhangers go, it’s not the most climactic. I’m curious but I’m not chomping at the bit.
Overall just a little disappointed. Hopefully The Ruthless Groom will hit the spot.
How do you find your happiness when everything and everyone around you is completely fake?
Both Perry and Charlotte are interesting in that they straddle the line between spoiled and caged. There’s definitely a lot of problems that only the top 1% deal with. But at the same time I feel for them trying to find meaning, happiness, safety in a world that offers little but frivolity.
Good God! These two people are the most wishy washy, contrary assholes I’ve ever endured. Make up your damn mind.
Although the more I consider it, all the indecision makes sense. They’ve both been the obedient if not spoiled child. Everything not only laid before them but every decision made.
Omg the moment I think he might’ve began to earn Win’s respect. Pure gold. I’m loving this new Perry.
I hate Reginald Lancaster with every ounce of my being. And every freaking backwards, chauvinistic man like him!
The second half is certainly better than the first. Less back and forth, more entertaining drama.
As far as cliffhangers go, it’s not the most climactic. I’m curious but I’m not chomping at the bit.
Overall just a little disappointed. Hopefully The Ruthless Groom will hit the spot.
May 2, 2022
“It matters, what this woman thinks. About me. Us. I’m going to break through Charlotte’s walls. Even if it fucking kills me.”
I am really conflicted with this book. I’ve really enjoyed Monica’s last works (Whit and Crew, I’m looking at you) but not this one. I was seeking more of a plot and there was a lot of repetition which really annoyed me. I had high hopes for the book and I’m so sad it didn’t deliver. Also i really wasn’t surprised with the cliffhanger cause I saw it coming from the start which was a bummer too:(
Overall, this didn’t really worked for me even tho how much I wanted it to.
PS- not me shipping her with Seamus instead of Perry ✋🏻
**** ARC provided in exchange for honest review.****
November 24, 2022
The Reluctant Bride is not as dark or twisted as I expected. From someone like Miss Murphy I was expecting, broody hero, dark and full of drama romance. Instead I got sunshine hero and timid heroine. The plot and the drama is minimum. I keep waiting for that twist but it never happened.
The banter/ conversation/ chemistry also feels lukewarm. I can not feel that deep vulnerable emotion connection between the characters. Perry's feeling toward Charlotte is more like insta lust. He just being obsess with her for no apparent reason. It turns me off a bit. The cliffhanger is also too short and does have that suck in your breath moment.
3 stars
The banter/ conversation/ chemistry also feels lukewarm. I can not feel that deep vulnerable emotion connection between the characters. Perry's feeling toward Charlotte is more like insta lust. He just being obsess with her for no apparent reason. It turns me off a bit. The cliffhanger is also too short and does have that suck in your breath moment.
3 stars
April 19, 2022
4 'Future wife' Stars!
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
I was oh-so-curious-and-excited to finally get into Perry Constantine’s mind and I knew Monica Murphy would not disappoint with the start of his love story. I was all over the idea of an arranged marriage theme and I have to say Monica did an amazing job with it. She gave us a slow burn romance, with two characters that are supposed to not want each other but they can’t do anything but that. I loved reading how this couple acts on their attraction and how that affects the narrative. I am so ready for more after that cliffhanger!
So, The Reluctant Bride is the first installment in Perry Constantine and Charlotte Lancaster’s story, and it focuses on the start of their arranged marriage that is basically controlled by the heads of each of the families involved. These two don’t know each other but they are forced into a relationship neither expected. But what happens when they start to get along and they peel each other’s layers? A very intense attraction starts and it’s impossible not to act on it. But the past and their families are also on their way and everything is not as it seems. What will happen next for this couple?
He doesn’t think I’m a prop.
Perry Constantine looks at me as if I might be someone special.
I don’t want to give away any spoilers, especially since I believe there will be three books in the series, and I don’t want to ruin the experience for anyone. I’ll just say I thoroughly enjoyed The Reluctant Bride and finally getting to know these two characters. Perry and Charlotte are more than what they show. Perry is not all about parties and women anymore. He loves working and he has some darkness inside of him. Same for Charlotte and her cold relationship with her family. I loved that these two can start a beautiful connection neither expected nor that are able to share feelings and vulnerabilities. And their chemistry? Hells yeah, so hawt! I cannot wait to read whatever is coming next, to get to know more about this couple and to see how their relationship evolves.
It matters, what this woman thinks. About me.
Us.
I’m going to break through Charlotte’s walls.
Even if it fucking kills me.
Therefore, I am rating The Reluctant Bride with 4 STARS because it was a very good start to Perry and Charlotte’s love story. I connected with both characters from the start and it’s so clear their connection is so much more than just physical. I need more after that cliffhanger, that is for sure! Monica definitely does justice to what we expected from Perry Constantine and I cannot wait to read more about him and his relationship with Charlotte. A great start to this series!
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
I was oh-so-curious-and-excited to finally get into Perry Constantine’s mind and I knew Monica Murphy would not disappoint with the start of his love story. I was all over the idea of an arranged marriage theme and I have to say Monica did an amazing job with it. She gave us a slow burn romance, with two characters that are supposed to not want each other but they can’t do anything but that. I loved reading how this couple acts on their attraction and how that affects the narrative. I am so ready for more after that cliffhanger!
So, The Reluctant Bride is the first installment in Perry Constantine and Charlotte Lancaster’s story, and it focuses on the start of their arranged marriage that is basically controlled by the heads of each of the families involved. These two don’t know each other but they are forced into a relationship neither expected. But what happens when they start to get along and they peel each other’s layers? A very intense attraction starts and it’s impossible not to act on it. But the past and their families are also on their way and everything is not as it seems. What will happen next for this couple?
He doesn’t think I’m a prop.
Perry Constantine looks at me as if I might be someone special.
I don’t want to give away any spoilers, especially since I believe there will be three books in the series, and I don’t want to ruin the experience for anyone. I’ll just say I thoroughly enjoyed The Reluctant Bride and finally getting to know these two characters. Perry and Charlotte are more than what they show. Perry is not all about parties and women anymore. He loves working and he has some darkness inside of him. Same for Charlotte and her cold relationship with her family. I loved that these two can start a beautiful connection neither expected nor that are able to share feelings and vulnerabilities. And their chemistry? Hells yeah, so hawt! I cannot wait to read whatever is coming next, to get to know more about this couple and to see how their relationship evolves.
It matters, what this woman thinks. About me.
Us.
I’m going to break through Charlotte’s walls.
Even if it fucking kills me.
Therefore, I am rating The Reluctant Bride with 4 STARS because it was a very good start to Perry and Charlotte’s love story. I connected with both characters from the start and it’s so clear their connection is so much more than just physical. I need more after that cliffhanger, that is for sure! Monica definitely does justice to what we expected from Perry Constantine and I cannot wait to read more about him and his relationship with Charlotte. A great start to this series!
April 20, 2022
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
Charlotte Lancaster is the only daughter to one of the most well connected, wealthy, established families in the country. They were like American royalty in New York, and practically untouchable. She was an introvert that was often sheltered and forgotten, but enjoyed her solitary existence. She considered herself the most boring Lancaster who somewhat faded into the background. She was obedient and spent most of her life controlled. Her every move was dictated, so it shouldn't come as too much of a surprise when she's told she will soon be engaged to a complete stranger. She was a pawn in a power merger between two prominent families. Her parents believed Perry Constantine was her perfect match, but she long ago learned not to trust anyone. The arranged marriage would be a business deal, and nothing more. Then she meets the sexy, billionaire bachelor. He's confident, arrogant, and she hates she's drawn to her future husband. As they spend time together he brings out unfamiliar and unwanted feelings that are hard to deny. When pretending feels real and she starts to like the man who will change her life forever things turn complicated.
Perry Constantine is the second son of one of the most powerful, ruthless families in NYC. They are a force to be reckoned with, but he was considered the easy going, charming brother. He's known as the nicest of the bunch, and the favorite son. He lives a carefree life until it's turned upside down when he's informed it's time for him to settle down. His family has found someone for him, and the arrangement is what's best for the family. His world is crumbling as he's forced to face his new fate. His family means everything to him, so he must prove they can count on him. He clashes with his fiance from the start, but then there's a shift happening between them. Suddenly his circumstances aren't as horrible as he once thought. The attraction he feels is growing as he tries to resist her. Will the former playboy soon begin to envision a future he never expected?
- Perry Constantine is like a drug. A dangerous one. The kind that sneaks up on you. He's fun and easy going and easy to talk to. Charming and charismatic and incredibly handsome. He's intoxicating, luring you in and breaking down your defenses until the next thing you know, you're on a high and you don't feel like you're ever coming down.
-He has a way of looking at me, talking to me, as if no one matters. His attention is always one hundred percent for me. And no one else.
The Reluctant Bride is the first book in an all new trilogy by Monica Murphy. It’s a sexy modern take on arranged marriage that’s part of the Midnight Dynasty universe. It’s a captivating, slow burn, enemies to lovers, billionaire romance full of angst, emotion, drama, chemistry and fabulous banter. I first met Perry in his sister Tinsley’s book Lessons in Sin by Pam Godwin, and wanted more. I love this world and can’t wait to get more of this couple in The Ruthless Groom! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3MgaNSb
(ARC provided by Valentine PR)
Charlotte Lancaster is the only daughter to one of the most well connected, wealthy, established families in the country. They were like American royalty in New York, and practically untouchable. She was an introvert that was often sheltered and forgotten, but enjoyed her solitary existence. She considered herself the most boring Lancaster who somewhat faded into the background. She was obedient and spent most of her life controlled. Her every move was dictated, so it shouldn't come as too much of a surprise when she's told she will soon be engaged to a complete stranger. She was a pawn in a power merger between two prominent families. Her parents believed Perry Constantine was her perfect match, but she long ago learned not to trust anyone. The arranged marriage would be a business deal, and nothing more. Then she meets the sexy, billionaire bachelor. He's confident, arrogant, and she hates she's drawn to her future husband. As they spend time together he brings out unfamiliar and unwanted feelings that are hard to deny. When pretending feels real and she starts to like the man who will change her life forever things turn complicated.
Perry Constantine is the second son of one of the most powerful, ruthless families in NYC. They are a force to be reckoned with, but he was considered the easy going, charming brother. He's known as the nicest of the bunch, and the favorite son. He lives a carefree life until it's turned upside down when he's informed it's time for him to settle down. His family has found someone for him, and the arrangement is what's best for the family. His world is crumbling as he's forced to face his new fate. His family means everything to him, so he must prove they can count on him. He clashes with his fiance from the start, but then there's a shift happening between them. Suddenly his circumstances aren't as horrible as he once thought. The attraction he feels is growing as he tries to resist her. Will the former playboy soon begin to envision a future he never expected?
- Perry Constantine is like a drug. A dangerous one. The kind that sneaks up on you. He's fun and easy going and easy to talk to. Charming and charismatic and incredibly handsome. He's intoxicating, luring you in and breaking down your defenses until the next thing you know, you're on a high and you don't feel like you're ever coming down.
-He has a way of looking at me, talking to me, as if no one matters. His attention is always one hundred percent for me. And no one else.
The Reluctant Bride is the first book in an all new trilogy by Monica Murphy. It’s a sexy modern take on arranged marriage that’s part of the Midnight Dynasty universe. It’s a captivating, slow burn, enemies to lovers, billionaire romance full of angst, emotion, drama, chemistry and fabulous banter. I first met Perry in his sister Tinsley’s book Lessons in Sin by Pam Godwin, and wanted more. I love this world and can’t wait to get more of this couple in The Ruthless Groom! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3MgaNSb
April 22, 2022
I let myself get caught up in all those teasers and early tiktok aesthetic reviews, but always being honest, this was painfully boring and I barely made it to the end, with the help of a few naps in between. I should have known this was doomed from the start when I realized the lead man's name was Perry... like the platypus.
July 25, 2022
Our Reluctant Bride is the polished and, seemingly, demure, Charlotte Lancaster. Although angry that she has no say regarding her pending nuptials, she begins to see the farce for what it is: an opportunity.
The casual, confident, and arrogantly charming Perry Constantine quickly learns his bride-to-be has claws. As a self-proclaimed mama’s boy, this intrigues him immensely.
Adjusting to their new reality, we quickly see the couple has chemistry in spades. However, this installment is about getting to know our couple and their respective families.
I’m anxious for The Ruthless Groom for the wedding day and to see how things play out with the blast from Charlotte’s past.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥
Darkness: 🤍
Heat: 🌶
Range of Emotions: 🙄🤬😊😘😳
Ending: Cliffy
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Tropes: Alphahole Hero, Arranged Marriage, Billionaire
⚠️ Safety Squad: n/a
📣 Type: The Reluctant Bride is part of the Wedded Bliss series and ends on a cliffhanger. This series must be read in order.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
The casual, confident, and arrogantly charming Perry Constantine quickly learns his bride-to-be has claws. As a self-proclaimed mama’s boy, this intrigues him immensely.
Adjusting to their new reality, we quickly see the couple has chemistry in spades. However, this installment is about getting to know our couple and their respective families.
I’m anxious for The Ruthless Groom for the wedding day and to see how things play out with the blast from Charlotte’s past.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Burn: 🔥
Darkness: 🤍
Heat: 🌶
Range of Emotions: 🙄🤬😊😘😳
Ending: Cliffy
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}
🗂 Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Tropes: Alphahole Hero, Arranged Marriage, Billionaire
⚠️ Safety Squad: n/a
📣 Type: The Reluctant Bride is part of the Wedded Bliss series and ends on a cliffhanger. This series must be read in order.
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
June 24, 2022
Pathetic couple!
Unfortunately!
Unfortunately!
April 19, 2022
4.5🌟
This book was so cute!!!!! I’ve read a lot of arranged marriage books…but this one has to be one of my new favorites! I cant wait for the second book!!!😭
Love,
Lola
This book was so cute!!!!! I’ve read a lot of arranged marriage books…but this one has to be one of my new favorites! I cant wait for the second book!!!😭
Love,
Lola
February 10, 2024
We first meet Perry Constantine, 24, as the younger brother of Winston, CEO of Halycon, where Perry was Winston's amazing partner in crime.
Now, his mother Caroline, the Constantine matriarch, and Winston, Perry's older brother, are brokering an arranged marriage between him and Charlotte Lancaster.
The extremely wealthy, and very well connected Lancasters making “It’s a power move, merging the two families.”
Charlotte Lancaster, 20, is informed by her abusive father that she is getting married. Being reluctant at first, she is gradually getting excited to marry the handsome Perry.
While Charlotte seems to be the proverbial grey mouse, she is quite the character.
Preparing for their big day, Charlotte's shame-from-the-past is back and it seems the Morelli's are involved.
While this is a slow burn, altogether it's fast paced. Told in dual POV, alternating between Perry and Charlotte. While I've been expecting the new character, the cliff-hanger ending was still a surprise.
I'm very much looking forward to book 2 in the series, The Ruthless Groom
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Part of the Arranged Marriage, Wedded Bliss Trilogy and must be read in order
Welcome to the Midnight Dynasty... The warring Morelli and Constantine families have enough bad blood to fill an ocean, and their brand new stories will be told by your favorite dangerous romance authors.
April 12, 2022
Monica Murphy - The Reluctant Bride (Wedded Bliss #1)
A Midnight Dynasty Collection
𝑨𝒓𝒄 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
We all know how powerful the Constantine and Morelli families are in this world, but have you met the Lancaster’s?
The Reluctant Bride is the first of three books in the Wedded Bliss trilogy, within the Midnight Dynasty Collection. It follows Perry Constantine, who made his first appearance in K Websters Cinderella trilogy, and Charlotte Lancaster, the only daughter of an powerful and prominent family in Bishops Landing.
This book had me shook! I had my doubts about how this story would do Perry’s character justice due to the change of authors. Having loved the man K. Webster created as a secondary character, who now gets his own story and is evolved to become a hero written by another author. I was hesitant to get into it at first due to the fact that I have not read anything by this author. However, I’m glad I gave it a chance because this book did not disappoint. I honestly couldn’t get enough.
Charlotte Lancaster is a broken soul. With a devastating past and a broken heart, she finds herself helpless to her father’s manipulations. Unloved and neglected, she tries to make the best out of a hopeless situation. Her character reminds me of Poppy in the Dark Hearts series. She has a lot of growing to do but I can see the underlying strength in her. It was interesting to be introduced to more characters in this world, amongst them some more villain’s and shady characters. Her brothers intrigue me and I loved Jasper and Doja cat. I hope to read more from them as the story develops.
Perry was first introduced in K Webster’s Cinderella trilogy, with his easy going, happy go lucky charming personality. He quickly became a fan favourite and I have been waiting for his own story ever since! Perrys character developed and he has grown a lot since when we first met him. Not only has he stepped up as a member of the Constantine member but he is learning fight the clutches of his mother’s hold and become his own man. I loved how he tried to fight his attraction for his future wife. But my favourite parts were how possessive and protective he was of her.
I enjoyed the mystery and suspense within the plot. I am intrigued to know more about their contract and the intentions behind this union. We know Caroline is not one to trust but can she have ill intentions towards her favourite son? She has always been hungry to grow her power and overthrow the Morellis but I suspect there’s more to this merger.
If you love arranged marriage, fake relationship, and enemies to lovers, this is right up your street. I was addicted to their banter and obsessed with ever interaction! These two characters are polar opposites and have many things in common. I cannot wait for them to get together because the chemistry will be explosive. Their interactions fast became a fascination to me. I loved their animosity, and reluctance to be in each other’s company. This was enemies to lovers at its finest.
If like me you cannot wait for the next installment, The Ruthless Groom, check out these books for more glimpses of Perry Constantine, the Cinderella trilogy by K. Webster, where he made his first appearance, and in Pam Godwin's standalone, Lessons in Sin.
If you are not familiar with the world of Midnight Dynasty, it is a collection of interlinking series written by multiple authors who all share a taste for dark and dangerous romance. A world filled with complex characters, secrets and an epic family feud between the Constantine’s and Morelli’s. Each author has a series that is connected to the Midnight Dynasty world, with characters that cameo within the interlinking series, or are mentioned by their reputation alone.
Midnight Dynasty Collection: The following books are all within the Midnight Dynasty collection.
Dark Fairy Tales Anthology
King Midas by Skye Warren, Rumplestiltskin by Celia Aaron, Princess and the Pea by Sierra Simone, Little Red Riding Hood by Karina Halle, The Ugly Duckling by CJ Roberts, Beauty and the Beast by Willow Winters, Jack & the Beanstalk by Marley Valentine, King Thrushbeard by Cora Reilly, Swan Princess by Natasha Knight, Cinderella by Aleatha Romig, and Snow White by T.M. Frazier
Starcrossed Lovers Trilogy by Jade West (Lucian Morelli & Elaine Constantine)
Heartless
Soulless
Relentless
Cinderella Trilogy by K. Webster (Winston Constantine & Ash Elliot)
Stroke of Midnight
Prince Charming
The Glass Slipper
Hellfire Club Series by Becker Gray [All Standalones]
Wicked Idol (Keaton Constantine & Iris Briggs )
Callous Prince (Lennox Lincoln-Ward & Sloane Lauder)
Brutal Blueblood (Owen Montgomery & Tanith Bradford)
Ruined Sinner (Phineas Yates & Aurora Lincon-Ward)
Sweet Devil (Rhys Huntington & Serafina Van Doren)
Dark Hearts Trilogy by M. Okeefe (Ronan Byrne & Poppy Constantine)
Ruined (previously titled Stolen Hearts)
Broken (previously titled Broken Hearts)
Untamed
Beast of Bishop's Landing Trilogy by Amelia Wilde (Leo Morelli & Haley Constantine)
Secret Beast
Hidden Beauty
Fallen Rose
Standalone: Pam Goodwin - Lessons in Sin (Magnus Falke & Tinsley Constantine)
Dream Duet by Giana Darling (Tiernan McTiernan Morelli & Laney Belcante )
Dangerous Temptation
Beautiful Nightmare
Meet Me Under the Mistletoe Anthology
M. Robinson, Pam Godwin, Claire Contreras, Amelia Wilde, Skye Warren, Jenika Snow, Sam Mariano, Alta Hensley, Katee Robert, Maria Luis, Giana Darling, and Sam Mariano
The Collector Trilogy by Amelia Wilde (Emerson Leblanc & Daphne Morelli)
Dark Reign
Sweet Mercy
Last Resort
Deception Duet by K. Webster (Reverse Harem: Sully, Sparrow and Scout Mannford & Landry Croft)
Triple Threat
Death Wish
Wonderland Trilogy by Alta Hensley (Nick Hudson & Lyriope Bailey )
King of Spades
Queen of Hearts
Ace of Diamonds
Wedded Bliss Trilogy by Monica Murphy (Perry Constantine & Charlotte Lancaster)
The Reluctant Bride
The Ruthless Groom
The Reckless Union
TBC DUET by Skye Warren (Finn Hughes & Eva Morelli)
One for the Money
Two for the Show
Standalone: Skye Warren & Amelia Wilde - The Crash (Carter Morelli & June Porter)
Find me on: Instagram | Goodreads | Bookbub
Amazon | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter
A Midnight Dynasty Collection
𝑨𝒓𝒄 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
We all know how powerful the Constantine and Morelli families are in this world, but have you met the Lancaster’s?
The Reluctant Bride is the first of three books in the Wedded Bliss trilogy, within the Midnight Dynasty Collection. It follows Perry Constantine, who made his first appearance in K Websters Cinderella trilogy, and Charlotte Lancaster, the only daughter of an powerful and prominent family in Bishops Landing.
This book had me shook! I had my doubts about how this story would do Perry’s character justice due to the change of authors. Having loved the man K. Webster created as a secondary character, who now gets his own story and is evolved to become a hero written by another author. I was hesitant to get into it at first due to the fact that I have not read anything by this author. However, I’m glad I gave it a chance because this book did not disappoint. I honestly couldn’t get enough.
Charlotte Lancaster is a broken soul. With a devastating past and a broken heart, she finds herself helpless to her father’s manipulations. Unloved and neglected, she tries to make the best out of a hopeless situation. Her character reminds me of Poppy in the Dark Hearts series. She has a lot of growing to do but I can see the underlying strength in her. It was interesting to be introduced to more characters in this world, amongst them some more villain’s and shady characters. Her brothers intrigue me and I loved Jasper and Doja cat. I hope to read more from them as the story develops.
Perry was first introduced in K Webster’s Cinderella trilogy, with his easy going, happy go lucky charming personality. He quickly became a fan favourite and I have been waiting for his own story ever since! Perrys character developed and he has grown a lot since when we first met him. Not only has he stepped up as a member of the Constantine member but he is learning fight the clutches of his mother’s hold and become his own man. I loved how he tried to fight his attraction for his future wife. But my favourite parts were how possessive and protective he was of her.
I enjoyed the mystery and suspense within the plot. I am intrigued to know more about their contract and the intentions behind this union. We know Caroline is not one to trust but can she have ill intentions towards her favourite son? She has always been hungry to grow her power and overthrow the Morellis but I suspect there’s more to this merger.
If you love arranged marriage, fake relationship, and enemies to lovers, this is right up your street. I was addicted to their banter and obsessed with ever interaction! These two characters are polar opposites and have many things in common. I cannot wait for them to get together because the chemistry will be explosive. Their interactions fast became a fascination to me. I loved their animosity, and reluctance to be in each other’s company. This was enemies to lovers at its finest.
If like me you cannot wait for the next installment, The Ruthless Groom, check out these books for more glimpses of Perry Constantine, the Cinderella trilogy by K. Webster, where he made his first appearance, and in Pam Godwin's standalone, Lessons in Sin.
If you are not familiar with the world of Midnight Dynasty, it is a collection of interlinking series written by multiple authors who all share a taste for dark and dangerous romance. A world filled with complex characters, secrets and an epic family feud between the Constantine’s and Morelli’s. Each author has a series that is connected to the Midnight Dynasty world, with characters that cameo within the interlinking series, or are mentioned by their reputation alone.
Midnight Dynasty Collection: The following books are all within the Midnight Dynasty collection.
Dark Fairy Tales Anthology
King Midas by Skye Warren, Rumplestiltskin by Celia Aaron, Princess and the Pea by Sierra Simone, Little Red Riding Hood by Karina Halle, The Ugly Duckling by CJ Roberts, Beauty and the Beast by Willow Winters, Jack & the Beanstalk by Marley Valentine, King Thrushbeard by Cora Reilly, Swan Princess by Natasha Knight, Cinderella by Aleatha Romig, and Snow White by T.M. Frazier
Starcrossed Lovers Trilogy by Jade West (Lucian Morelli & Elaine Constantine)
Heartless
Soulless
Relentless
Cinderella Trilogy by K. Webster (Winston Constantine & Ash Elliot)
Stroke of Midnight
Prince Charming
The Glass Slipper
Hellfire Club Series by Becker Gray [All Standalones]
Wicked Idol (Keaton Constantine & Iris Briggs )
Callous Prince (Lennox Lincoln-Ward & Sloane Lauder)
Brutal Blueblood (Owen Montgomery & Tanith Bradford)
Ruined Sinner (Phineas Yates & Aurora Lincon-Ward)
Sweet Devil (Rhys Huntington & Serafina Van Doren)
Dark Hearts Trilogy by M. Okeefe (Ronan Byrne & Poppy Constantine)
Ruined (previously titled Stolen Hearts)
Broken (previously titled Broken Hearts)
Untamed
Beast of Bishop's Landing Trilogy by Amelia Wilde (Leo Morelli & Haley Constantine)
Secret Beast
Hidden Beauty
Fallen Rose
Standalone: Pam Goodwin - Lessons in Sin (Magnus Falke & Tinsley Constantine)
Dream Duet by Giana Darling (Tiernan McTiernan Morelli & Laney Belcante )
Dangerous Temptation
Beautiful Nightmare
Meet Me Under the Mistletoe Anthology
M. Robinson, Pam Godwin, Claire Contreras, Amelia Wilde, Skye Warren, Jenika Snow, Sam Mariano, Alta Hensley, Katee Robert, Maria Luis, Giana Darling, and Sam Mariano
The Collector Trilogy by Amelia Wilde (Emerson Leblanc & Daphne Morelli)
Dark Reign
Sweet Mercy
Last Resort
Deception Duet by K. Webster (Reverse Harem: Sully, Sparrow and Scout Mannford & Landry Croft)
Triple Threat
Death Wish
Wonderland Trilogy by Alta Hensley (Nick Hudson & Lyriope Bailey )
King of Spades
Queen of Hearts
Ace of Diamonds
Wedded Bliss Trilogy by Monica Murphy (Perry Constantine & Charlotte Lancaster)
The Reluctant Bride
The Ruthless Groom
The Reckless Union
TBC DUET by Skye Warren (Finn Hughes & Eva Morelli)
One for the Money
Two for the Show
Standalone: Skye Warren & Amelia Wilde - The Crash (Carter Morelli & June Porter)
Find me on: Instagram | Goodreads | Bookbub
Amazon | TikTok | Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter
April 19, 2022
I have been patiently waiting for Perry’s story. As the 2nd in line in the Constantine family he is presented with an outrageous and unbelievable task of an arranged marriage. He balks and pulls back but he is a mama's boy and will give in to his mom Caroline.
The Lancaster’s are old money and filthy rich and have arranged for Charlotte to marry Perry, and this begins the craziness of a fast wedding.
But the sudden appearance of a certain Morelli…sparks will fly and Perry will come to the rescue.
The Midnight Dynasty saga has always intrigued me and held me captive for more and more. Monica Murphy has given Perry’s story life and promises the reader that it will be epic!
The Lancaster’s are old money and filthy rich and have arranged for Charlotte to marry Perry, and this begins the craziness of a fast wedding.
But the sudden appearance of a certain Morelli…sparks will fly and Perry will come to the rescue.
The Midnight Dynasty saga has always intrigued me and held me captive for more and more. Monica Murphy has given Perry’s story life and promises the reader that it will be epic!
April 26, 2022
This is what happens if you decide to read a book without knowing it belongs in a long series - you don't know what the fuck is going on.
I kept asking myself why did this not seem like a mafia book, there was no action or angst or feud other than the "stare downs" that happened between the men. And then I realised: it is because I've skipped the thousands of books before and that's why the book appeared to be in pieces to me.
The only interesting part of the book was the last chapter where it really got the ball rolling, other than that it was just repetitions of the past, mentions of the future that has yet to happen and the boring present.
Though, I am very impressed about how different authors can actually write about the same family and characters in these stories.
Please only read this book if you have read any of the others from the series. Don't be an idiot like me.
I kept asking myself why did this not seem like a mafia book, there was no action or angst or feud other than the "stare downs" that happened between the men. And then I realised: it is because I've skipped the thousands of books before and that's why the book appeared to be in pieces to me.
The only interesting part of the book was the last chapter where it really got the ball rolling, other than that it was just repetitions of the past, mentions of the future that has yet to happen and the boring present.
Though, I am very impressed about how different authors can actually write about the same family and characters in these stories.
Please only read this book if you have read any of the others from the series. Don't be an idiot like me.
August 27, 2023
"Arranged Marriage" that's all I saw to get the book.
I know, I'm a sucker for this trope and I had read some books from this author in the past which were ok, if my memory serves me right. But, oh boy! In which parallel universe does this story takes place? I mean, there barely was a story to begin with. The heroine has no personality, no plans for her future, no wants of her own. The Hero is a sex-on-a-stick guy who sowed his wild oats and now is ready to settle down with a good woman. And said woman is selected by his mother and brother in order to promote business. Nothing happened between them to get to really know each other, they avoided one another while living together, and they had sex at the end. End of story.... oh, and there are two more books about them, which wasn't clear when I started the book, I thought it was a stand alone. And then I found out that it is part of a bigger world in which various authors write about couples with a similar background...
Sorry, not for me..
I know, I'm a sucker for this trope and I had read some books from this author in the past which were ok, if my memory serves me right. But, oh boy! In which parallel universe does this story takes place? I mean, there barely was a story to begin with. The heroine has no personality, no plans for her future, no wants of her own. The Hero is a sex-on-a-stick guy who sowed his wild oats and now is ready to settle down with a good woman. And said woman is selected by his mother and brother in order to promote business. Nothing happened between them to get to really know each other, they avoided one another while living together, and they had sex at the end. End of story.... oh, and there are two more books about them, which wasn't clear when I started the book, I thought it was a stand alone. And then I found out that it is part of a bigger world in which various authors write about couples with a similar background...
Sorry, not for me..
April 10, 2022
★4 merry stars★
༯✷༯✷𝘈 𝘔𝘪𝘥𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘵 𝘋𝘺𝘯𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 ༯✷༯✷
When I learned we would finally get Perry’s tale I was giddy with excitement. I was curious to see if Caroline’s favourite child was as jovial and blasé as he first appeared.
Perry is the soul of the party, all laugh and carefree attitude, a people pleaser, everyone thinks he leads a life full of fun and luxury. Nobody really knows what lurks underneath, how he really feels, what secret his soul harbours. Given his caring disposition it’s only natural that the ultimate sacrifice is asked of him. An arranged marriage to a stranger and to a Lancaster no less.
~𝑵𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒔 𝒎𝒆, 𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒆. 𝑵𝒐𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖~
Charlotte has never known affection, she bears the weight of a name that demands her best demeanour, she is a prisoner in her own house, to add misery to an already dreadful situation she’s also forced into marriage. She will exchange one prison for another, one controlling and violent father for an equally dominating husband who seems to want her total submission.
~𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒅𝒓𝒖𝒈. 𝑨 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒐𝒏𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒔𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒖𝒑 𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖~
While Perry and Charlotte plan how to get out of an ironclad contract they discover truths about themselves, they also question the reasons behind such an agreement. They have a mystery to solve, and at the same time they have to act like a hopelessly in love couple. Their banter and terse discussions sizzle with chemistry. While they’re busy juggling everything they can’t deny their growing attraction towards each other. Could this forced arrangement turn out to be something good and their way to freedom?
Told in dual POV the narrative pace is steady, some redundancies in the dialogue slow the action. The story picks up towards the end climaxing with a cliffhanger that totally captured my attention leaving me begging for more. I hope the next instalment will be more fast paced and more focus directed on Perry and Charlotte’s fiery personalities.
༯✷༯✷𝘈 𝘔𝘪𝘥𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘵 𝘋𝘺𝘯𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 ༯✷༯✷
When I learned we would finally get Perry’s tale I was giddy with excitement. I was curious to see if Caroline’s favourite child was as jovial and blasé as he first appeared.
Perry is the soul of the party, all laugh and carefree attitude, a people pleaser, everyone thinks he leads a life full of fun and luxury. Nobody really knows what lurks underneath, how he really feels, what secret his soul harbours. Given his caring disposition it’s only natural that the ultimate sacrifice is asked of him. An arranged marriage to a stranger and to a Lancaster no less.
~𝑵𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒔 𝒎𝒆, 𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒆. 𝑵𝒐𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖~
Charlotte has never known affection, she bears the weight of a name that demands her best demeanour, she is a prisoner in her own house, to add misery to an already dreadful situation she’s also forced into marriage. She will exchange one prison for another, one controlling and violent father for an equally dominating husband who seems to want her total submission.
~𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒅𝒓𝒖𝒈. 𝑨 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒐𝒏𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒔𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝒖𝒑 𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖~
While Perry and Charlotte plan how to get out of an ironclad contract they discover truths about themselves, they also question the reasons behind such an agreement. They have a mystery to solve, and at the same time they have to act like a hopelessly in love couple. Their banter and terse discussions sizzle with chemistry. While they’re busy juggling everything they can’t deny their growing attraction towards each other. Could this forced arrangement turn out to be something good and their way to freedom?
Told in dual POV the narrative pace is steady, some redundancies in the dialogue slow the action. The story picks up towards the end climaxing with a cliffhanger that totally captured my attention leaving me begging for more. I hope the next instalment will be more fast paced and more focus directed on Perry and Charlotte’s fiery personalities.
June 3, 2022
4 Stars!
Well, fans of the modern day arranged marriage trope, look no further. This was my first read by Monica Murphy but I'm a HUGE fan of the Midnight Dynasty world so I was here for all the things!
Perry Constantine is the light-hearted Constantine brother and the people pleaser. So when his mother asks him to marry a total stranger, he complies.
Meanwhile, Charlotte comes off as meek and quiet but her inner sassiness comes out during the story.
The Reluctant Bride was the first part in Perry Constantine and Charlotte Lancaster’s story, and it focuses on the start of their arranged marriage which is basically controlled by the heads of the families involved. These two don’t know each other but they are forced into a relationship. But what happens when they start to get along and peel back each other’s layers? A very intense attraction that becomes more and more difficult not to act on. But the past and their families are on their way and everything is not as it seems. What will happen next for this couple and will they make it to the altar?
The book ends in a massive cliffy when Charlotte's past catches up with her but at such a pivotal part in the story that I was salivating for more.
I loved getting to catch up with Tinsley from Lessons in Sin as she is still my fave Constantine.
Recommend this one if you are a fan of:
• Enemies to lovers
• Arranged marriage trope
• Family drama
• Fake dating/relationship
I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
"I could fall in love with this man. And that's the last thing I should do."
Well, fans of the modern day arranged marriage trope, look no further. This was my first read by Monica Murphy but I'm a HUGE fan of the Midnight Dynasty world so I was here for all the things!
Perry Constantine is the light-hearted Constantine brother and the people pleaser. So when his mother asks him to marry a total stranger, he complies.
Meanwhile, Charlotte comes off as meek and quiet but her inner sassiness comes out during the story.
The Reluctant Bride was the first part in Perry Constantine and Charlotte Lancaster’s story, and it focuses on the start of their arranged marriage which is basically controlled by the heads of the families involved. These two don’t know each other but they are forced into a relationship. But what happens when they start to get along and peel back each other’s layers? A very intense attraction that becomes more and more difficult not to act on. But the past and their families are on their way and everything is not as it seems. What will happen next for this couple and will they make it to the altar?
The book ends in a massive cliffy when Charlotte's past catches up with her but at such a pivotal part in the story that I was salivating for more.
I loved getting to catch up with Tinsley from Lessons in Sin as she is still my fave Constantine.
Recommend this one if you are a fan of:
• Enemies to lovers
• Arranged marriage trope
• Family drama
• Fake dating/relationship
I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
May 17, 2022
There is something really weird in this book, that I will not point out. But if you’ve read it then you’re probably aware. Also, how am I supposed to take someone named Perry seriously? It kind of suits his personality, but it reminds me of Perry the Platypus every time. To make it worse his last name rhymes with constipation. I was kinda looking forward to their wedding day. But now I guess I have to wait for another month.
May 30, 2022
I haven’t even touched the surface when it comes to the Midnight Dynasty Universe, but what I have read has me all kinds itchy to catch up and read all the words! Alas, there are not enough hours in a day to just read on an endless loop, so it is taking me longer than expected but every time I carve out time for one of the stories, it renews my energy to just push the world aside and binge! The Reluctant Bride not only put the Constantine family front and center in my mind, but also the Lancaster family from Monica’s Things I Wanted to Say & A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime!!
Everything I’ve read thus far in this universe has been dark and gritty and intense. This story is different, and I am here for all of it! Yes, it has those darkish circumstances surrounding the storyline, but it is also laced with humor levity, and the journey is a delicious slow-burn! They have a love-hate vibe to them but with a twist because it’s more of a hate-to-love / push-pull chemistry that is utterly captivating and delightfully fun to experience. Do not mistake my terms fun and humorous as if this is a rom-com because it is far from that, but so far, as I mentioned, there’s a levity to the storyline that makes this modern day arranged marriage circumstance highly bewitching and enjoyable!
Monica Murphy has taken the time in this story to build not just the storyline and its moving parts but also the relationship between Perry and Charlotte. I first met Perry in his sister’s story, Lessons in Sin by Pam Godwin, and I thought I knew who he would be personality wise etc. but I was mistaken and I absolutely love that I was because this Perry is amazing, and I can’t wait to see how Monica continues to develop him and Charlotte as well! UGH, I hate that I have to wait two months for more but I am all in and can’t wait!!
Everything I’ve read thus far in this universe has been dark and gritty and intense. This story is different, and I am here for all of it! Yes, it has those darkish circumstances surrounding the storyline, but it is also laced with humor levity, and the journey is a delicious slow-burn! They have a love-hate vibe to them but with a twist because it’s more of a hate-to-love / push-pull chemistry that is utterly captivating and delightfully fun to experience. Do not mistake my terms fun and humorous as if this is a rom-com because it is far from that, but so far, as I mentioned, there’s a levity to the storyline that makes this modern day arranged marriage circumstance highly bewitching and enjoyable!
Monica Murphy has taken the time in this story to build not just the storyline and its moving parts but also the relationship between Perry and Charlotte. I first met Perry in his sister’s story, Lessons in Sin by Pam Godwin, and I thought I knew who he would be personality wise etc. but I was mistaken and I absolutely love that I was because this Perry is amazing, and I can’t wait to see how Monica continues to develop him and Charlotte as well! UGH, I hate that I have to wait two months for more but I am all in and can’t wait!!
June 16, 2022
*quote to come, I read the PB so it might take me a minute to choose a quote*
I honestly can’t believe I enjoyed a slow burn/low spice book as much as I did this one. I just loved Charlotte and Perry’s tension and his budding possessiveness over his future wife. I do think that these books are a bit repetitive when it comes to the inner monologue, and that could have been replaced with some plot/subplot movement, because legitimately the only plot is the marriage for way too long, and then a small glimpse at more, but also what do I know… I’m just a reader 😂
Overall enjoyable if you enjoy slow burning modern arranged marriage tropes. I’m writing this after reading book two, I was too impatient to dive right in lol, but I can’t wait for book three to see what finally happens with Charlotte and Perry’s story.
I honestly can’t believe I enjoyed a slow burn/low spice book as much as I did this one. I just loved Charlotte and Perry’s tension and his budding possessiveness over his future wife. I do think that these books are a bit repetitive when it comes to the inner monologue, and that could have been replaced with some plot/subplot movement, because legitimately the only plot is the marriage for way too long, and then a small glimpse at more, but also what do I know… I’m just a reader 😂
Overall enjoyable if you enjoy slow burning modern arranged marriage tropes. I’m writing this after reading book two, I was too impatient to dive right in lol, but I can’t wait for book three to see what finally happens with Charlotte and Perry’s story.
July 30, 2022
I knew Monica Murphy was one of my favourite authors for a reason!
The Reluctant Bride is the first book in the Arranged Marriage trilogy and it’s the beginning of Charlotte and Perry’s story.
This book was a great, easy read, I literally couldn’t put it down. I was so immersed in these characters and in their world, I just couldn’t stop.
I saw so much of myself in Charlotte’s character and I couldn’t help but love her. I found Charlotte and Perry characters unique and unlike any others I’ve read before.
And that plot twist at the end! I’m jumping straight into the next book right now!!
I can already tell I’m going to love this series and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
The Reluctant Bride is the first book in the Arranged Marriage trilogy and it’s the beginning of Charlotte and Perry’s story.
This book was a great, easy read, I literally couldn’t put it down. I was so immersed in these characters and in their world, I just couldn’t stop.
I saw so much of myself in Charlotte’s character and I couldn’t help but love her. I found Charlotte and Perry characters unique and unlike any others I’ve read before.
And that plot twist at the end! I’m jumping straight into the next book right now!!
I can already tell I’m going to love this series and I cannot wait to see what happens next!
June 4, 2022
Sweet Baby Perry!! 😭😭😭
This is literally giving me the OG midnight dynasty feels! I love Perry so much!
This is a great start to the trilogy in my opinion. I was a bit nervous Perry would lose some of his charm having his own book, but I didn’t believe that was the case at all. I loved him just the same. You see Perry in a different light he’s got a back bone, but he’s still that mama’s boy that we love.
The chemistry between Charlotte and Perry was great, the instant attraction made for this interesting push and pull. Neither wanting to admit they want to be together. I loved seeing the shift throughout the story.
Charlotte I also really liked she wanted so badly to be independent and get away from her cruel father. I really did love her as character. She has a lot to her character that we have to unpack. All the characters in this story were multi dimensional, there’s a lot to learn and get to know, and I’m excited to see where the rest of the story goes… especially after that cliff hanger.
Overall I really enjoyed this story, there was some lighter moments, but the story had you consistently wanting more. Perry is in my top 2 favorite Constantine’s, next to Tinsley! I definitely recommend this new trilogy.
This is literally giving me the OG midnight dynasty feels! I love Perry so much!
This is a great start to the trilogy in my opinion. I was a bit nervous Perry would lose some of his charm having his own book, but I didn’t believe that was the case at all. I loved him just the same. You see Perry in a different light he’s got a back bone, but he’s still that mama’s boy that we love.
The chemistry between Charlotte and Perry was great, the instant attraction made for this interesting push and pull. Neither wanting to admit they want to be together. I loved seeing the shift throughout the story.
Charlotte I also really liked she wanted so badly to be independent and get away from her cruel father. I really did love her as character. She has a lot to her character that we have to unpack. All the characters in this story were multi dimensional, there’s a lot to learn and get to know, and I’m excited to see where the rest of the story goes… especially after that cliff hanger.
Overall I really enjoyed this story, there was some lighter moments, but the story had you consistently wanting more. Perry is in my top 2 favorite Constantine’s, next to Tinsley! I definitely recommend this new trilogy.
October 2, 2022
THE RELUCTANT BRIDE BY MONICA MURPHY
4/5
Tropes: arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, family drama,
I was so excited to read more about the Lancasters! If you read A million kisses in your lifetime, Charlotte the main character is Crew’s sister. So I loved the tie-in and am so invested with this family line.
Perry Constantine and Charlotte Lancaster are forced into an arranged marriage together by their parents. Charlotte is reluctant to marry Perry to further use it as an opportunity to get away from her overbearing father while Perry would instead not marry someone he just met. The two of them butt heads along the way while trying to navigate their new arrangement and deal with family drama and rivalries.
The way Perry was so protective of charlotte ahhhh!!! I really enjoyed the chemistry between them and the angst. The banter and the slow burn between them were amazing. I really enjoy the way Monica murphy world builds and creates these family lines I'm obsessed! I can’t wait to read the rest of this series and see how Charlotte and Perry's love story unfolds!
4/5
Tropes: arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, family drama,
I was so excited to read more about the Lancasters! If you read A million kisses in your lifetime, Charlotte the main character is Crew’s sister. So I loved the tie-in and am so invested with this family line.
Perry Constantine and Charlotte Lancaster are forced into an arranged marriage together by their parents. Charlotte is reluctant to marry Perry to further use it as an opportunity to get away from her overbearing father while Perry would instead not marry someone he just met. The two of them butt heads along the way while trying to navigate their new arrangement and deal with family drama and rivalries.
The way Perry was so protective of charlotte ahhhh!!! I really enjoyed the chemistry between them and the angst. The banter and the slow burn between them were amazing. I really enjoy the way Monica murphy world builds and creates these family lines I'm obsessed! I can’t wait to read the rest of this series and see how Charlotte and Perry's love story unfolds!
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