As an emergency room doctor, Gina Sutton is used to handling difficult situations, particularly when Bill Nevins, the Director of Emergency Services, is involved!  Little does she expect for the upper administration to recognize Bill’s incompetence as well.  Her new boss, Dr. Ruark Thomas, brings more change to her life than just to her workplace, however.  Ruark is a prince and he knows Gina’s family secret.  Can an arranged marriage between Ruark and Gina turn into real love?

Jessica Matthews tackles the difficult theme of arranged marriages and makes it work.  The political unrest between Ruark’s homeland of Marestonia and Gina’s nearby birthplace of Avelogne is woven into the story in a tactful but believable manner.  In fact, the tidbits regarding the rising tensions between the two countries add a layer of depth to the story, creating a sense of history that Ms. Matthews uses to show Gina’s yearning to belong.

The love between Ruark and Gina grows steadily and easily over the course of the story.  Perhaps this is what makes it all the more realistic as these two career driven characters learn all about each other.  THE ROYAL DOCTOR’S BRIDE is a very satisfying happily-ever-after romance.  Bravo, Ms. Matthews for such a beautiful and heartwarming tale!

Publisher: Harlequin Medical Romance #381 (January 2009)