Step into the enchanting world of Once Upon a Temptation, where fairy tales meet fiery romance in a whirlwind of passion and modern charm! This eight-book series, published by Harlequin Presents, reimagines classic fairy tales with contemporary twists, delivering steamy love stories that captivate romance readers worldwide. With acclaimed authors Lynne Graham, Dani Collins, and Natalie Anderson at the helm, the series blends heart-pounding drama, empowered heroines, and irresistible heroes for a truly addictive read.
Whether you’re a fan of Cinderella’s magic or Beauty and the Beast’s emotional depth, Once Upon a Temptation offers an irresistible escape into exotic settings and heartfelt connections. Ready to fall in love? Let’s explore this romantic saga!
How Once Upon a Temptation Began
Launched in 2020, Once Upon a Temptation emerged from Harlequin’s vision to reimagine fairy tales as sultry, modern romances. The series tapped bestselling authors like Lynne Graham, known for her emotionally charged stories, to craft narratives that blend timeless fairy tale tropes with contemporary stakes. Each book was designed to stand alone, yet together they form a cohesive collection united by themes of love, transformation, and defying expectations. The result? A series that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly bold, perfect for readers craving escapism with a modern edge.
The Heart of Once Upon a Temptation
The series kicks off with Cinderella’s Royal Secret by Lynne Graham, where housekeeper Izzy Campbell’s one-night encounter with Sheikh Rafiq leads to a life-changing pregnancy and a royal proposal. This Cinderella-inspired tale sets the tone with its mix of passion, secrets, and empowerment. Next, Dani Collins’ Beauty and Her One-Night Baby channels Beauty and the Beast, following CEO Scarlett Walker and tycoon Javiero Rodriguez as they navigate a surprise baby and lingering attraction after a jaguar attack scars his once-perfect features.
Natalie Anderson’s Shy Queen in the Royal Spotlight, inspired by The Ugly Duckling, introduces Hester Moss, a reserved assistant who agrees to a marriage of convenience with Prince Alex of Triscari, only to discover her inner fire. Finally, Caitlin Crews’ Claimed in the Italian’s Castle reimagines Bluebeard with gothic flair, as Angelina faces a mysterious billionaire’s proposal. Themes of personal growth, love against odds, and breaking societal norms shine through, set against glamorous backdrops like desert kingdoms and Italian castles.
The series’ style is fast-paced and emotionally rich, with strong heroines who defy stereotypes and heroes who evolve beyond their alpha exteriors. From royal scandals to billionaire dramas, each story balances fairy tale whimsy with real-world complexities, making every book a page-turner.
Why Once Upon a Temptation Resonates
Once Upon a Temptation has carved a niche in the romance genre by blending fairy tale nostalgia with contemporary relevance. Fans praise its diverse characters and empowering narratives, with over 3 million books sold globally across Lynne Graham’s works alone. The series’ ability to weave universal themes like love and self-discovery into exotic, high-stakes settings keeps readers hooked. Its lasting appeal lies in its celebration of transformation—whether it’s a shy heroine finding her voice or a scarred hero embracing vulnerability.
Critics and readers alike highlight the series’ emotional depth and steamy chemistry, with titles like Beauty and Her One-Night Baby earning 4.5-star reviews for their compelling drama. For romance fans, Once Upon a Temptation is a testament to the enduring power of love stories that dare to dream big.
- Publication Year: 2020
- Number of Books: 8
- Key Authors: Lynne Graham, Dani Collins, Natalie Anderson, Caitlin Crews
- Genre: Contemporary Romance
Dive into Cinderella’s Royal Secret and let Once Upon a Temptation sweep you into a world of romance, glamour, and fairy tale magic!