Striking: A Royal Romance That Captivates the Heart
When I stumbled upon Striking (Red Lips & White Lies Book 7) by Bella Matthews, I was instantly intrigued. A romance sprinkled with royal drama and an accidental marriage? Count me in! As a long-time fan of Matthews, I was eager to dive into the final chapter of the Red Lips & White Lies series. Her ability to weave compelling love stories with relatable characters always keeps me coming back for more, and Striking was no exception.
The story revolves around Bellamy Wilder, a determined nursing student who finds herself unexpectedly tangled in a wild night with the charming Prince Rhys Windsor. Their chemistry is electric from the start, and Matthews skillfully builds their connection through fiery banter and sweet moments that made my heart flutter. But when they wake up to a shocking twist—a marriage certificate and the news of a king’s death—things take a dramatic turn. Suddenly, Bellamy is thrust into the royal spotlight, where she has to navigate the intricacies of love, duty, and her budding relationship with Rhys.
One of the key themes in Striking is the evolution of Bellamy from a cautious rules-follower to a fiercely devoted partner. As the story unfolds, her journey of self-discovery and love left me feeling inspired. Matthews’ portrayal of both characters’ vulnerabilities added layers to the plot, making their romance not just romantic, but also real.
The pacing of the novel was spot-on—it had the kind of rhythm that kept me turning the pages well into the night. Bella’s writing shines with wit and warmth; the dialogue flows effortlessly, and I found myself laughing at the quick exchanges just as much as swooning over the intimate moments. One reviewer summarized it well: "Bella Matthews nailed that sweet slow burn," and I couldn’t agree more.
In addition to the enchanting romance, the supporting characters brought a delightful cast of personalities that enriched the story. Atticus, Rhys’s brother, and Bellamy’s loyal friends add humor and depth, creating a sense of community that resonates with readers. As one reader passionately declared, "The side characters shine, adding warmth and humor," which truly encapsulates the charm of Matthews’ storytelling.
What truly hit home for me was the essence of pursuing love, even when faced with unexpected circumstances—an accidental marriage leading to true connection. Bella Matthews captures this sentiment beautifully, and her extended epilogue left me with a smile as I closed the book.
To anyone who enjoys a well-crafted royal romance filled with intrigue, humor, and heartfelt moments, Striking is a must-read. It’s a fitting end to a beloved series, showcasing Matthews’ talent for bringing characters—and their stories—to life. This book not only left me grinning but also wishing for more adventures in the enchanting world of Kroydon Hills and beyond. If you’re looking to feel all the feels wrapped in a fairytale format, this one’s for you!
You can find Striking (Red Lips & White Lies Book 7) here >>