Let me start by mentioning that Leslie North's novels are simple escapism. If you approach her books with the thought of wanting to dive into a contemporary romance that will never happen in real life, then her books are for you. I am not reading or enjoying her books because they depict realistic settings, and situations I personally agree with under any other circumstances

That said, from that stand-point, I truly enjoyed The Sheikh's Contract Fiancêe. Yes, it is a formula romance novel, a standard contemporary romance that offers what is expected in that genre, and nothing more, but it delivers it well. It is also important to mention that none of her books are clean, which includes this one, so if you are looking for a rated PG 13 book, then you are looking in the wrong place.

Now, what I did not like in this particular novel, is that the female main character cussed a little too much for my liking. And I did not have a problem with it, because it was the female that used this type of language, I simply think it is beneath good communication skills of an educated person of any gender to use these particular words, with very few exceptions. She used it way too loosely, which was kind of strange, as I don't remember Leslie every having another character (male or female) be quite this vulgar before. When reading all of that cussing, it always took me out of the story.

Otherwise, The Sheikh's Contract Fiancee was exactly what I expected from a short romance novel - an interesting romance, chemistry, some bedroom scenes and plenty of outside conflicts.

I found this book to be a great start to the series, and am looking forward to reading more about the other two brothers, that are going to get their fair share of romance and tribulations.

This review has been published on my book blog at https://withinthepagesofabook.com/book-review-the-sheikhs-contract-fiancee-by-leslie-north-a-multicultural-romance/

I got this book courtesy of NetGalley and couldn't wait to read it. I've been a fan of Leslie North's writing mainly because of the guarantee that I'd be swooning over some character or seriously hoping that I meet one and talk some sense into them.
Here, Annabelle finds herself miles away from home hoping to sign the deal to officiate a merger with her Father's company. She is received at the airport by Imaad, the youngest son to Sheikh Almasi, and her future husband as per the merger agreement. Annabelle finds herself enraged and cornered so much so that she is nothing but a pawn in her father's game.
It's very clear that she's got quite the temper and it doesn't help that her relationship with her father is not a positive one.

So, what did I like about this book? The plot.

A must read author. All her books are great. Alpha male sheikh gets caught up in an arranged marriage.

The Sheikh’s Contract Fiancée is the start of the Almasi Sheikhs. Bringing us 3 brother this book focusing on Sheikh Imaad and Annabelle and their arrange marriage. I liked this story and found the character engagement quite enjoyable. I will read more of this series and by this author

I was a little disappointed that the story did not make as much of the cultural differences that there are between the middle east and the USA. Particularly in relation to a woman having a high ranking position in a company and handling a major merger of 2 large organizations, one an American company and the other a middle eastern company. I found the plot very predictable with Annabelle falling in love with Imaad and a fairly simple plot.

ARC - I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest!
For Annabelle, it was supposed to be a quick trip to close a merger.
Instead, she was introduced to her future husband.
Imaad could not believe what his father was telling him.
In order to complete a merger for the company, he will have to marry the daughter.
Imaad did not like the idea at all, but he quickly changed his mind when he meet Annabelle.
They both have chemistry together.
Maybe this arranged marriage wasn't such a bad idea.
Could they give this arranged marriage a chance ?

Thus is a really good book.
Arranged marriage due to a business merger.
Sheikh Imaad and Annabelle.
He has issues standing up to his father and she has issues with a sick mother in need of care and a father who doesn't acknowledge her and she feels she constantly has to prove herself to.
It's written well, he is not a man whore type. In fact he's quite sweet and he cares for her very quickly although she is harder to read.
This is the first book in the series and there are hints of future storylines about his brothers.
I enjoyed it.

The Sheikh's Contract Fiancee, is the best beginning to the Almasi Skeikhs series. It is a stand alone story in novella size.
I think that Annabelle is the surprise that Imaad needed to stand up to his father. And with Imaad at her side, Annabelle was also able to stand up to her father as well.