I was given an ARC in return for an honest review.

Cathy, the step-daughter of a prosperous businessman, deeply desires to encounter that one individual who isn't swayed by her wealth and truly wishes to know about her as a person. When she meets Rafe in rather unusual circumstances, she finds herself immediately attracted. Now, the question is whether she can persuade him to look beyond the glitz and glamour and see the real woman beneath or if she will remain forever trapped as the 'wealthy daughter'.

Rafe, on the other hand, is weary of working for others. He dreams of having sufficient funds to launch his own business. When the job opportunity of a lifetime presents itself, it seems almost impossible for him to decline. However, there is one snag - he has to keep his true identity a secret. At first, it seems like no problem at all... until he meets Cathy. Now, Rafe is caught in a dilemma, torn between his duty to complete this job and the risk of sacrificing it all for that slim chance of finding happiness.

Unfortunately, the story is largely revealed right from the start when you open the book. This leaves very little room for the reader's imagination to run wild or to build up any anticipation. I had an issue with this aspect as it didn't allow me to engage fully with the story in that regard. While I did enjoy the overall narrative, the development of the characters left something to be desired. The story moved at a rather quick pace, which might be appealing to those who don't like to linger over details. However, for me, I craved more conflict and a more satisfying resolution. The events seemed to unfold too rapidly, and I didn't feel that the characters had fully resolved their issues. On a different note, their daughter was extremely willful. I'm not entirely sure who was the more lenient parent, but she seemed to have a great deal of freedom. I liked Rafe, but he appeared to be overly controlled by his emotions. Cathy, too, seemed independent on the surface but actually lacked a strong backbone. Overall, though, this story isn't too bad.

Ms. Major takes readers on an exciting journey as danger, passion, and drama converge.

The Accidental Bridegroom is a modern-day fantasy that has a touch of magic around the fringes.

In this fantastical second chance romance, star-crossed lovers, vengeful fathers, and intense sex appeal come together.

Readers will be drawn into a world where the unexpected happens at every turn.

The story unfolds with a combination of thrilling moments and heartwarming scenes.

As the characters navigate through the challenges and obstacles in their path, they discover that love can conquer all.

The Accidental Bridegroom is a captivating read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Rafe was a bodyguard, a man who had dedicated his life to protecting others. Cathy, on the other hand, was a spoiled rich young lady, or at least that's what Rafe initially thought. Cathy, for her part, thought Rafe was a thief and was immediately attracted to him. Little did they know that beneath their outward appearances, they were both the same. They were both unwanted, unloved, and ignored by their own families.

This is a story of great love and even greater betrayal. Their initial misunderstandings led to a passionate connection, but as their relationship deepened, secrets and lies began to surface. Would they be able to overcome their pasts and the betrayals that threatened to tear them apart? Or would their love be doomed from the start? Only time would tell if they could ever get things resolved between them.

Is it a spell or the real thing!

This is an incredibly wonderful story filled with misunderstandings and the wrong person taking control. Cathy, in her quest for help to love her soon-to-be bridegroom, unfortunately, has the man from her past drink it instead. And then, what kind of trouble ensues!

He is completely unaware that Cathy gave birth to their daughter 6 years ago. He mistakenly thinks Cathy is just a spoiled heiress. However, his discovery of his child and the realization that he has always loved Cathy make this story truly gut wrenching for both of them.

You can't help but empathize with the betrayal and heartbreak that each of them feels. At the same time, you can also sense the wonder and excitement of discovering a love that is meant to last forever.

This story is truly captivating and I absolutely love it!!

I received an advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest review.

This is a reprint of a 1994 Harlequin Desire. Ann Majors, a highly popular author, has penned numerous books for this series. While I have delved into other works by this author, this particular one remained unread by me. Despite the fact that this is a short novella, Ann Major has the remarkable ability to craft a captivating plot.

"Accidental Bridegroom" commences with a Prologue set six years prior to the main narrative. Cathy, an heiress, has her father hire Rafe Steel as her bodyguard. This task is labeled as difficult as Cathy, an independent woman, detests bodyguards as she desires the freedom to act as she pleases. However, upon seeing Rafe, Cathy is instantly attracted to him and attempts to seduce him. Rafe decides to give in to ensure a smooth guarding experience.

Six years later, Cathy resides in Mexico with her daughter and her old nurse. When Rafe discovers that he has a daughter, he travels to Mexico to confront Cathy. Due to a plethora of misunderstandings among Cathy's stepfather, Rafe, and Cathy herself, Rafe is extremely enraged with Cathy for the events that transpired during their breakup.

Regrettably, this is the aspect of the story that I find troublesome. Rafe's anger persists throughout the majority of the remainder of the book. Although he admits his love for Cathy, he is furious at how her stepfather treated her and blames Cathy for his actions. No matter how many times Cathy explains and apologizes for her stepfather, Rafe stubbornly refuses to believe or trust her. I typically shy away from this type of hero as I prefer books where the couple collaborates to solve a problem.

Nevertheless, in spite of my personal opinion, this is still an outstanding book because Ann Majors is an exceptionally skilled writer. I have read other books by this author and have thoroughly enjoyed them. Since I am aware that there are numerous readers who relish this trope, I wholeheartedly recommend this book and this author.

This is a truly good read.

It is filled with the elements of steam and story, which combine to create a captivating narrative.

The drama unfolds in a way that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, with betrayals and love交织在一起.

Even though one might have an inkling of how it would end, the journey is still well worth the time spent.

The author has done a great job of crafting a story that engages the reader's emotions and imagination.

From the very beginning, the reader is drawn into the world of the characters and becomes invested in their fates.

The descriptions are vivid, painting a clear picture in the reader's mind.

Overall, this is a book that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an entertaining and engaging read.

It has something for everyone, whether you're a fan of drama, romance, or just a good story.

So, if you're looking for a book to lose yourself in, give this one a try.

You won't be disappointed.

Passion runs high when two individuals first meet, and their lives are never the same again.

What should have been a normal duty as a bodyguard turns into much more when feelings become involved.

Two lonely people find themselves questioning what they are willing to risk for a brighter future.

Years later, with a little magical assistance, Cathy Calderon and Rafe Steel might discover the happiness they've long hoped for.

Ann Major has written a clever story filled with enchantment.

I really wanted to believe.

THE ACCIDENTAL BRIDEGROOM has compelling emotional developments and an engaging romantic couple.

Rafe Steel wanted time off after his last assignment as a bodyguard, but his boss gave him little choice.

He had to secretly watch over Cathy Calderon.

With her stepfather's wealth and power, remaining professional was a must, despite her temptation.

Yet, from the start, Rafe knew Cathy would cause him trouble.

He had no idea how their interaction would impact him forever.

Their short time together led to Cathy becoming pregnant, but Rafe wasn't informed.

After six years in Mexico, she was going to marry a man chosen by her stepfather, even though her daughter didn't like him.

When Rafe learned he had a child, he planned to contact Cathy.

What he didn't expect was Cathy getting a potion to make her fiancé's love genuine, but the spell might affect him instead.

The Day of the Dead is an important holiday in Mexico, and it's imaginatively used in the story.

Ann Major made me wonder about love potions and if they really work.

The magical aspects were convincing.

There are many characters, some good and some not so nice, and each seems real.

I especially liked the two young children.

Relationships often have conflicts, and Rafe and Cathy's are demanding.

I enjoyed seeing how they reacted to one ordeal after another, especially when it could change their lives.

Both are still affected by what happened six years ago, and I was eager to know their responses when they met again.

Though from different backgrounds, they have similar feelings about themselves.

Their desire for each other is real, expressed with heat and sincerity.

I've always found Ann Major's books entertaining, and THE ACCIDENTAL BRIDEGROOM is continuously captivating.

Received copy from author - 4.5 Stars

Accidental Bridegroom by Ann Major was originally published by Harlequin’s Desire series.

I first read this book back in 1994 when it was initially released as a part of the Man of the Month series.

To this day, I still love Accidental Bridegroom just as much as I did when I first picked it up. I have a passion for reading about well-developed and strong characters, and Ms. Major has truly delivered in this regard.

Rafe, a bodyguard, is assigned the task of protecting Cathy. One fateful night alters their lives forever, and six years later, Rafe stumbles upon her secret.

Of course, there is a great deal happening in the story, and could a spell be involved? It was fascinating to learn about Mexico’s unique take on our Halloween tradition, which is the Day of the Dead (El Dia de los Muertos).

If you have a penchant for reading books that explore themes of second chances, love, betrayal, and misunderstanding, then Accidental Bridegroom is the perfect choice for you. I would like to disclose that I voluntarily read and provided an honest review of this book.

The phrase "the greatest magic in the world was the power of true love" truly captivated me.

When I read the book description, I knew without a doubt that I had to get my hands on this particular book. Cathy's simple request led to an unexpected outcome. Meanwhile, Rafe had to grapple with serious secrets, and throughout most of the story, his emotions were a complex mix of anger and love.

I was really impressed by how the author seamlessly incorporated the Day of the Dead into the narrative. The book was rife with misunderstandings, betrayals, and yet, it also offered a second chance for both main characters.

This is not your typical sweet love story. Instead, it delves deep into the dirtier, more complex emotions that people experience. Overall, it was a good book that kept me engaged from start to finish. I must mention that I did receive a free copy of this book, but I chose to review it voluntarily, and I'm glad I did.

ACCIDENTAL BRIDEGROOM by Ann Major is a standalone book that offers a unique and engaging reading experience.

I have not read other books by her before, but she has proven to be a refreshing author in a sea of hundreds to choose from. Her use of wit and vivid descriptions, whether of a person or a place, make the story come alive.

From the very beginning, the reader is drawn into the world that she is creating. The description of Rafe and Cathy is so detailed and vivid that it's easy to understand why the sparks flew between them.

The story then jumps forward six years, and we are introduced to a six-year-old girl who is the spitting image of her mother, not only in looks but also in temperament. It's entertaining to think that Cathy is still a handful, even as she is about to marry someone who is approved by her family, and on THE DAY OF THE DEAD no less.

This book is a witty and enjoyable read from start to finish. I'm already looking forward to reading another book by Ann Major.

Given a voluntary review, of which this is my honest opinion.

Rafe now earns his livelihood as a bodyguard. He is a large man who once served in the military. His childhood was far from happy, and everyone seemed to abandon him. He has been assigned to watch over Cathy, the daughter of a wealthy man in Houston. Cathy is a handful, and he is instructed to do everything in his power to keep her safe. She behaves wildly as she also had a tragic childhood. Her mother divorced her father, who eventually died of a broken heart. Her mother then married a rich man from Mexico, and they were never at home, so Cathy never felt loved by her parents. Her parents were more concerned with appearances. Cathy has never felt comfortable around the rich friends of her parents.

During a party, when Cathy attempts to escape, she runs into Rafe. Rafe does not reveal that he is her bodyguard because she hates bodyguards. Rafe has always disliked rich people. To find out what happens next, you need to read the book.

I adored the book, and it is perfect to read now as Halloween approaches. I believe my favorite character was the child Sadie. She truly knew how to manipulate people. I couldn't stand Cathy's parents, especially her stepfather. I loved Rafe and hated to see how he was sometimes treated. Most of the book is set in Mexico around Halloween, so it was fascinating to learn about their beliefs and customs. I urge you to read the book. I voluntarily received an Advanced Reader's Copy of the book.

Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review...

I absolutely adored this book! The moment I started reading, the characters had such a captivating charm that they effortlessly drew me in and made it extremely difficult for me to put the book down.

Rafe and Cathy, from the very beginning, share a wonderful chemistry that is palpable. Despite the time they spend apart, once they are reunited, the sparks fly like never before. Their connection is so strong and engaging that you can't help but fall in love with them both.

As a reader, you find yourself rooting for them, hoping and wishing that they will have their happy ever after. The story is filled with emotions, twists, and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. It's a truly remarkable read that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a captivating and heartwarming story.