The Rebel King

Charlie Costa is a fireman who is far from thrilled to learn he's a prince. He's his own man who likes his life the way it is and wants no part of the royal baggage that goes along with becoming king. This includes marrying for the good of the state, no matter how beautiful or enticing the princess is he's supposed to wed. As a fireman, he understands duty, but he's not the type of man who'll jump through hoops simply because someone decrees it's mandatory. Princess Jazmine has been raised in this royal life. It's her duty to train Charlie for the position he doesn't want. She sees more in Charlie than he sees in himself. She admires his strength of character, even though she believes his stubbornness is misplaced, and respects his right to choose the life he wishes even as she grows to love him. It's because of this love and the person she is that she refuses to manipulate Charlie into marriage. When Charlie's past together with his inability to fit the ruler mould make his final decision appear he'll forego royal life, brave Princess Jazmine, mindful of her duty, refuses to add guilt to his decision and does not disclose that his decision gives her no option but to marry another. I have always been a fan of royalty stories. The Rebel King was compelling because of the genuine needs of all the characters in this book. I have read all of Melissa James' books but this has become my absolute favourite. I hope there will be a future book for this story's secondary characters because visiting this kingdom was one of the best vacations I've had in a long time.