Jayci Lee is one of my favourite authors so I knew that That Prince is Mine was not going to dissapoint. I sped through this book in an afternoon. After finishing Bridgerton, I was just all about the royal romances and this one just took the cake ;) This was a very lighthearted read and you can't help but fall for each of the characters and their unique backstories.

After enjoying all three novels in Lee’s A Sweet Mess series, I looked forward to trying her next novel. That Prince is Mine follows Emma Yoon who runs a small culinary instructor business in Los Angeles that teaches Korean royal court cuisine alongside her Korean matchmaker godmother, Auntie Soo. To help her godmother, Emma decides to find her own husband. On the other side is Michel Aubert/Chevalier, a visiting professor at USC. He is secretly the prince of the European nation of Rouleme and has three months to find his soul mate or he must follow through with his arranged marriage. Emma and Michel meet and hit it off, but there are a lot of secrets between them along with Michel living in another country as royalty.

Their story follows their differences on how their relationship may or may not work. I loved Emma showing Michel all about her culture and all the references to food in the story were amazing. There were a lot of elements minimized in this story as it seemed too casual about how Emma and Michel addressed the possibility of Emma becoming queen if their relationship moved forward. The chemistry that existed between the characters was well-written, although it was very insta-love. It seemed more that Emma was resisting due to creating conflict in the story than seeming natural. Based on the overall experience, it seemed the author did not want to go too deep with the story. Many of the conflicts were solved quickly and decisions/events were not fully explored. Overall, this was a cute and easy romance that brings to life a sweet story about royalty and commoners meeting.

**I give a special thank you to Netgalley and the publisher, Griffin, for the opportunity to read this entertaining novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**

She just wants to open up her own culinary school but when she has to find the perfect husband to save her godmother's matchmaking reputation the last thing she expects is fall for a prince. Emma Yoon wants to open her own culinary school one day but before she does she's been teaching Korean royal court cuisine to hopeful brides of the upper class Korean families. Her godmother, a popular matchmaker, has been helping her make her business successful yet when a rival matchmaker uses Emma's single status to undermine her godmother's reputation, Emma is now forced to find the perfect on paper husband to refute it. Thats when she meets Professor Michel Chevalier..... except Michel is hiding one big secret: he is actually a prince who has run away from his country to to Los Angeles in hopes of finding his own bride to marry with only three months left before he has to marry someone his elders choose... and he wants Emma. Emma and Michel are perfect together but will she still want him when she finds out he's been lying about who he was the entire time... and would she be willing to give up everything to marry a prince? This definitely gave off Hallmark/Netflix romance movie vibes but unfortunately I didn't really vibe with Emma all that much. The story started off cute but then it got a bit annoying at certain points for me. Emma can be a bit insufferable but that's just a vibe from me. I think the story itself is a really simple and easy read and you can just finish it in one quick read. I wish I liked Emma more because I would have rated the book higher, but alas, here we are. Overall, it's a quick easy romance read and I think it can be a good time for readers.

Release Date: July 30,2024

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Griffin for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

Lee does it again! Bringing us another phenomenal story That Prince is Mine by Jayci Lee.
I LOVED Booked on a Feeling and The Dating Dare! I was so excited for another title by Jayci.
TPiM is the absolute best royalty romance story! But Lee writes the best stories anyways so I wasn’t surprised to see how quickly I devoured this one.
The characters are engaging, thoughtful and complex and reflect perspectives from the Korean American experience.
That Prince is Mine is a perfect blend of lighthearted romance and laugh-out-loud moments, all with a delectable backdrop. Jayci Lee's writing style is engaging and flows effortlessly, making it easy to devour this book in one sitting. It's a feel-good story that leaves you with a warm and fuzzy feeling.

Thank You NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this e-arc! 3/5 stars, a pretty typical contemporary romance that was a light read.

this was a pretty much your regular contemporary romance - nothing too new or super unique, but it was cute and a light read nonetheless. I appreciated the way that lee incorporates korean culture in here - sometimes when it's a little heavy handed it can feel cheesy or like the author is pandering, but since lee uses it as a background to establish her main character here, it's not too bad. of course it's a little cheesy at times but it's hard to escape that with a romance. michel felt kinda like a white bread kinda guy to me, and I think I'll have to stop reading royal romances because I find too much to nitpick when it comes to royal families - but I digress. overall, the cover is giving exactly what the book's about, so if you're looking for a light contemporary romance, you've got your book

An okay read. Some of the characters were not needed, they didn’t add to the story. 3 star read.


*** I received an arc for my honest opinion from NetGalley**

3.5⭐️ This is a super cute and fun royal romance (which I am always a sucker for). I loved the elements of fighting for love as well as all the fun cooking components. While I had a good time reading it, it felt a little insta-love/lust for me and went 0 to 100 too quickly for my preference. I think this is great for someone wanting a romance without a lot of depth!

This was an advanced read copy I received through Netgalley so it’s not going to be officially published until July 30, 2024! But this is my honest review!

Add this book to your to read list, I promise you won’t regret it! & then let me know what you thought!

#books #bookstagram #booktok #bookrating #library #bookreview #bookrecommendations #bookrecs#bookcommunity #booklovers #booksofinstagram #bookish #fivestarbooks #romancebook #kindlebooks
#kindleunlimited

I was really excited for this book because the premise sounded really cute. However, the writing style just wasn't for me and the prince and his cousin talked like they were from a different century. Yes, I know, they are royalty, but I doubt very much real royals speak this way. Got on my nerves.

3.5 stars


I adored Jayci Lee's A Sweet Mess series so couldn't pass up the opportunity to read another of her books!

Emma was such a good character, agreeing to an arranged marriage to help her aunt's matchmaking business. Even though she found her own match in Prince Michel.

I enjoyed Michel and the fact he was royalty of a small country in hiding. His cousin Gabriel was so much fun!

Emma and Michel were so different and probably shouldn't have been compatible but they were so much fun together. I really liked their adventures around the city and the ending!

Hopefully another book will be coming featuring Gabriel & Sophie?? 👀

Huge thanks to NetGalley, MacMilan Audio & St Martin's Press for advance copies!

I so enjoyed Emma and Michel's story! I loved watching Michel challenge Emma's belief that they had to have a lot in common to be compatible all the while she's realizing maybe she doesn't need perfect on paper after all.

Thank you NetGalley!

If you’re looking for a grown-up fairy tale that leaves you feeling hopeful and cheering for love, then thisbook is a must-read! It’s the perfect blend of heart, humor, and cultural insight.

Book Review: That Prince Is Mine by Jayci Lee

Jayci Lee's That Prince Is Mine is a delightful contemporary romance that seamlessly blends cultural richness with an engaging love story. With its unique premise and endearing characters, this novel is a charming read that offers both humor and heart.

Plot Overview:

Emma Yoon, a dedicated Korean royal court cuisine instructor in Los Angeles, is laser-focused on her career and dreams of opening her own culinary school. Her well-structured life takes an unexpected turn when her godmother’s fellow matchmakers meddle in her romantic affairs, pushing her into a series of arranged dates with potential suitors. Emma’s practical approach to love is disrupted when she meets Michel Aubert, a handsome USC professor with a secret: he is a prince in disguise.

Michel, who is bound by duty to an arranged marriage, is searching for someone who can love him for who he truly is, rather than his royal status. As Michel and Emma’s paths cross, both must confront their own preconceptions about love and duty. Their growing connection forces Emma to reevaluate her stance on romance, while Michel grapples with his responsibilities and desires.

What I Loved:

Cultural Richness: The novel offers an immersive experience into Korean culture through Emma's culinary expertise and her role in the matchmaking world. Lee’s attention to detail brings authenticity and depth to the setting, making it a refreshing backdrop for the romance.
Engaging Characters: Emma is a relatable heroine, juggling her professional ambitions with familial expectations and societal pressures. Her pragmatic approach to love, combined with her determination to succeed, makes her a compelling character. Michel, with his royal duties and personal desires, is equally intriguing. His internal conflict and genuine affection for Emma add depth to his character.
Humor and Heart: Lee's writing is infused with humor and warmth, making the story both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The comedic elements of Emma’s disastrous first dates and the charming moments between her and Michel create a delightful reading experience.
Romantic Tension: The chemistry between Emma and Michel is palpable, and their evolving relationship is portrayed with both tenderness and tension. Their journey from initial attraction to deeper emotional connection is well-executed, providing a satisfying romance.

What Could Be Improved:

Predictability: While the novel’s premise is unique, some aspects of the plot and character arcs follow familiar romance tropes. This predictability might be noticeable to readers who are well-versed in the genre.

Conclusion:
That Prince Is Mine is a charming and heartwarming romance that successfully combines cultural elements with a classic love story. Jayci Lee has crafted a delightful tale with engaging characters and a compelling narrative. The novel earns a solid four stars for its entertaining plot, cultural authenticity, and the genuine connection between its leads. If you're in the mood for a romantic escape with a touch of royalty, this book is a perfect choice.

That Prince is Mine is a light romance but heavier on the spice ;)
Prince Michel is a visiting professor at USC, trying to use his time as "not a prince" to find true love before going home and marrying into his arranged marriage. Emma is a Korean-American with a dream of running her own culinary school teaching Korean Royal Cuisine. The two end up meeting while Emma is on her matseons, her "perfect on paper" matchmaking attempts from her godmother. Emma gives Michel a chance, determined to prove that they'd never work because they're so different while Michel uses that time to prove to her exactly why they're perfect together.

While I liked Emma and Michel and the cast of side characters, I didn't find myself really drawn into their story. The dating went from 0 to 60 very quickly, which makes sense with the time limit on Michel's time in America, but the lack of real communication was frustrating considering he wanted Emma to move to his country and become his Queen. Feels like that warrants some conversations before proposals!

All in all, a nice little Royal Read if you're in the mood!

Read if you love:
- InstaLove
- Man Obsessed
- Royal Romance
- Alternating POV


Thank you, NetGalley and SMP for an ARC in exchange for an honest review

Will they, can they have an HEA? This is a light, pleasant read about two people who want true love-two people from very different backgrounds. Emma is a Korean American chef who teaches others to cook and her grandmother wants her to marry. Michel is a Prince who doesn't want his arranged marriage and he's escaped for a few months to Los Angeles where he's living incognito. These two meet cute, build a relationship and then....no spoilers. You gotta know how things will work out but Lee's done a wonderful job of making you root for this couple. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Delightful.

I initially picked up this book because of the cute cover, thinking it would be a sweet romcom. I wish they would rate books or at least require a heat index in descriptions I saw nothing about being the book being steamy let alone that it was riddled with descriptive sex scenes. I know a lot of people want that in the books they read, but my choice is closed door romance. I was also disappointed with the foul language. I need to be more vigilant on researching the books I read. If you enjoy that in a book, then be my guest. Although that is not the only reason that I gave it a low rating. The storyline sounded intriguing, but the execution did not live up to my expectations. I thought Emma started out strong, but very quickly morphed into a silly teenage girl. Her dream of opening a culinary school was ultimately abandoned. Prince Michel was also acting a bit childish. Running away to LA to find love, and acting put out if he had to stop and take care of business for his country. I think my favorite part of the story was Sophie and Gabriel. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This book had me on a chokehold with the wild chemistry, and the romance! I love a Michel, and how easy their romance unfolded. Emma’s aunt is a matchmaker and when her reputation is hanging by a thread, Emma agrees to get matched. But then she meets Michel, and this man was far from afraid to ask her out even knowing that she was trying to get matched.

Michel is charming is literally GORG, and a man that knows what he wants. But he’s a royal prince, who is taking some time away from his kingdom to have a little freedom in the states, and when he lease expects it, like Emma, falls in love. When he tells her who he is, I thought “lucky girl” imagine finding out that the guy you are dating is a soon to be King…. The other characters were amazing in this book, and I couldn’t wait to see their HEA…

This book had all the cheese. Every corny trope in the romance category, it is here with the added bonus of cultural clashing and expectations. While this book held no secrets, it was sweet and light and a cute little romance.

#arc
#netgalley
#thatprinceismine

This is a charming contemporary romance with a Korean-American heroine and a European prince.

The book alternates between Emma and Michel's POVs.

Emma's dream is to open a culinary school. Her godmother is a Korean matchmaker. Michel is the crown prince of Rouleme. However he is in Los Angeles as a visiting professor in international relations at USC. His bodyguard Sophie and his cousin Gabriel are both super fun supporting characters.

I really liked seeing so much of the Korean culture, especially in regards to cooking. And I thought that the romance was so good. Emma and Michel made such a cute couple!

I definitely liked these two together. But some of the miscommunication was so frustrating. However the end was really good. Overall I definitely enjoyed this book.

3 stars

I was intrigued by this book because of the references to Korean culture. Who knew there was such a thing as a kimchi refrigerator!!!

Unfortunately. that was the best part of the book. I found it hard to suspend my disbelief at various parts of the story, especially toward the end. For example, Michel is the crown prince of a small (fictional) monarchy and we’’re supposed to believe no one in Los Angeles knows who he is? There was an excessive use of adjectives and adverbs. I began rolling my eyes at every description of Emma’s elegant neck. It was also spicier than I prefer, but that’s a reflection on me, not the writing.

While this may not have been my cup of tea, I do appreciate the opportunity to read it. Thank you St. Martin’s Griffin and NetGalley for the digital ARC in return for an honest review.

2/5 stars

I loved the premise of the book. I requested from NG a while back and only just had the chance to read it.

This was a major meh book for me. I couldn't get super invested into the characters because they weren't hardly invested in each other. Their "love" didn't make sense, and at times, I kept hoping for the side characters' story instead of the MC's.

While this book was spicy, it felt too Hallmark-y. I love a good fluffy romance, but this one did not hold my interest.

Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an ARC