Lady in Waiting is the first installment in Marie Tremayne’s debut series “Reluctant Brides”. It was a delightful and sweet read with well-deve4 Stars
Lady in Waiting is the first installment in Marie Tremayne’s debut series “Reluctant Brides”. It was a delightful and sweet read with well-developed characters that make the book.
William, Lord Ashworth, has suffered a terrible loss that has changed the course of his life. Traumatized and injured, he has shut himself away in his country estate, Lawton Park.
Clara Mayfield is heiress to a banking fortune, but her family is snubbed by the ton and her parents intend to force her into a loveless arranged marriage. Her fiancé is abusive and Clara decides to run away. She seeks safety by hiding as a servant. She is hired as housemaid at Lawton Park under a false identity.
I loved Clara, she has a very resilient spirit, she is pragmatic, industrious and willing to work hard, winning the affection of everyone at the estate. And yet, William and Clara’s relationship starts out antagonistic, William seems to take an instant dislike to her, he is suspicious. Yet, as they get to know each other, he can’t help but trust and admire her. I loved that their romance was a slow burn and their relationship grew from chapter to chapter.
It took me a while to warm to William. At first, he came across as stiff and a stickler for rules and upstairs/downstairs etiquette. His vulnerability is unsettling his mind, but he can’t deny the intense emotions he feels for Clara. For her sake, he is willing to break with tradition and social boundaries. She is able to reach the man underneath the polished aristocrat and their chemistry was palpable.
Marie Tremayne has woven a story that incorporates a realistic character growth that totally won me over. Her characters were beautifully drawn. I loved that they didn’t act hastily on their attraction to each other. There were many ups and downs between them, they both had their own trials to deal with. This character-driven historical romance was an enjoyable read and I’ll definitely follow this author in the future.
ARC generously provided by the publisher.
Merged review:
4 Stars
Lady in Waiting is the first installment in Marie Tremayne’s debut series “Reluctant Brides”. It was a delightful and sweet read with well-developed characters that make the book.
William, Lord Ashworth, has suffered a terrible loss that has changed the course of his life. Traumatized and injured, he has shut himself away in his country estate, Lawton Park.
Clara Mayfield is heiress to a banking fortune, but her family is snubbed by the ton and her parents intend to force her into a loveless arranged marriage. Her fiancé is abusive and Clara decides to run away. She seeks safety by hiding as a servant. She is hired as housemaid at Lawton Park under a false identity.
I loved Clara, she has a very resilient spirit, she is pragmatic, industrious and willing to work hard, winning the affection of everyone at the estate. And yet, William and Clara’s relationship starts out antagonistic, William seems to take an instant dislike to her, he is suspicious. Yet, as they get to know each other, he can’t help but trust and admire her. I loved that their romance was a slow burn and their relationship grew from chapter to chapter.
It took me a while to warm to William. At first, he came across as stiff and a stickler for rules and upstairs/downstairs etiquette. His vulnerability is unsettling his mind, but he can’t deny the intense emotions he feels for Clara. For her sake, he is willing to break with tradition and social boundaries. She is able to reach the man underneath the polished aristocrat and their chemistry was palpable.
Marie Tremayne has woven a story that incorporates a realistic character growth that totally won me over. Her characters were beautifully drawn. I loved that they didn’t act hastily on their attraction to each other. There were many ups and downs between them, they both had their own trials to deal with. This character-driven historical romance was an enjoyable read and I’ll definitely follow this author in the future.
An entertaining story that flows nicely with witty banter, steamy love scenes and genuine characters.
Nellie “Eleanor” and Andrew are so mismatc4 Stars
An entertaining story that flows nicely with witty banter, steamy love scenes and genuine characters.
Nellie “Eleanor” and Andrew are so mismatched, yet a perfect pair together despite their clashing personalities. Sparks fly each time they are together. Nellie is such a spitfire, a quick-witted and authentic character with profound inner strength and resolve, but not without insecurities. She is unconventional and not ready to give an inch for what she believes in.
Andrew’s life has been shaped by the weight of his legacy. Many people depend on him and he is in New York to find a wealthy bride to save his family estate. He is a man of propriety, repressed and respectable, but there is much more beneath the surface.
What was great about the relationship between Nellie and Andrew was that you really do see it form before your eyes. There is real chemistry from the start, their first meet is fierce, sizzling and romantic. They have a healthy relationship with deep understanding of each other needs.
I was happy with the way things worked out for them in the end. This book is part of a series but works perfectly well as a standalone.
My review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
I have been looking forward to reading Drew St. James’ story since finishing the first book in the series, "About a Rogue". Drew is the distant4 Stars
I have been looking forward to reading Drew St. James’ story since finishing the first book in the series, "About a Rogue". Drew is the distant cousin of a duke. Without a direct heir, the dukedom will pass to one of the cousins, with a considerable fortune attached to the estate. Drew has a short period of time to establish himself as the person capable of preserving the dukedom’s legacy and to find a suitable bride.
I liked the main characters, as a couple, these two are a perfect fit: good-natured, likeable Drew and seemingly prim Ilsa who is trying to change her life after being widowed. She has never been free to do what she wants and she craves a little adventure. What I liked most about Drew is his high sense of loyalty to those he cares for. He is duty-bound, he has gone into the army when his family was faced with penury. He is willing to step into the responsibilities and duties of the position and follow the dictates of the Dowager Duchess of Carlyle because he recognizes what the dukedom will allow him to do for his family.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the vivid interactions between Ilsa and Drew and the emotional moments Caroline Linden created. The secondary characters were great too. The hero’s sisters are pretty interesting characters that make the story more complete and delightful. The Duchess remains a unique, elusive character and I would like to know more about her. There is a small mystery subplot but it didn't add much to the main story. The book loses some steam towards the last quarter, the ending was satisfying, but somewhat lacking in emotional punch. There are still many things unresolved as far as the dukedom is concerned, and I can’t wait for more in the series.
My honest opinion is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
I loved this spellbinding, dark story of revenge and true love, combining witty dialogue and emotionally charged scenes. The suspense was breat4 Stars
I loved this spellbinding, dark story of revenge and true love, combining witty dialogue and emotionally charged scenes. The suspense was breathtaking with some plot twists that I didn't see coming. I got swept up in the emotions of the characters. These two very different characters complete each other perfectly and are the best allies in the face of danger. The balance of dark and light between Francesca and Declan is brilliantly woven. They are both wounded heroes and their story broke my heart. Their emotions are bound by their common tragic past that weighs heavily on them. In their own way, they have set out to destroy the Crimson Council, a secretive occult society using the power of its members for evil purposes. Francesca and Declan want for nothing else but truth and justice.
Francesca’s life is consumed by one mission: destroy those responsible for the death of her family and friends. In her search for answers, Francesca is flirting with danger. She has infiltrated the Crimson Council and seduced its leader. She is brazen, independent and resolved, even though she isn’t sure she’ll survive her quest for vengeance. She has got an inner strength that I found admirable. Declan is a man with dubious contacts and uncommon skills. He will do anything in his power to keep Francesca safe. He’s the perfect combination of damaged, enigmatic and compassionate. He has a seriously twisted past.
What follows is the fascinating, exciting story of how Francesca and Declan deal with what happened in their past, how their relationship develops. Their romance is intertwined with a struggle to defeat dangers. There's a healthy dose of angst throughout the entirety of this story. I was as invested in Francesca’s mission to avenge her family as I was in her romance with Declan. And though the ending of the story felt a bit rushed, the author wrapped up both plotlines in a satisfying way.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
Caroline Linden has a wonderful talent for writing beautiful stories that are easy and entertaining to read, this one is no exception.The two main chaCaroline Linden has a wonderful talent for writing beautiful stories that are easy and entertaining to read, this one is no exception.The two main characters are very well developed and I found my heart breaking and healing right along with them.
There is great chemistry and tension between them. I loved both Bianca and Max, even though Max was a bit of a mystery through the story. I loved that Bianca was so outspoken, always bubbly and witty. And then there is Max, her husband, who is cool as a cucumber and seems to hide his inner feelings. But what is refreshing is most times they are honest with each other even though it is a contractual relationship. Their story is not a case of insta-love, or even insta-attraction. It took time for them to feel and believe in their couple. The slow, but gradual change in both of them, was believable and wonderful to read.
Maximilian St. James is the distant cousin of a duke. Without a direct heir, the dukedom will pass to one of the distant cousins of the duke, with a considerable fortune attached to the estate. Max has a short period of time to establish himself as the person capable of preserving the dukedom’s legacy and to find a suitable bride. Bianca’s father has built a successful business and his daughter’s marriage to a gentleman would consolidate his new status in society. Neither of them wants to be married to the other, their marriage is a business arrangement. At first, Bianca enjoys letting Max know she thinks little of him, but he provokes her curiosity and her antipathy slowly weakens. She comes to realize he is not the person she imagined him to be. I loved watching their interactions and I was invested in their story.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It's the romantic journey of two strangers walking into a situation by obligation and ending up being a perfect match. It ended rather abruptly in my opinion, but I’m sure there is more to come in this new series.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
The best part of the book is the chemistry between the main characters and their romance starts while they become entangled in a pretend relationship.The best part of the book is the chemistry between the main characters and their romance starts while they become entangled in a pretend relationship. I liked how the plot mostly focused on the development of the main characters. Their love story is a very authentic and real slow-burn. They grow independently as individuals and then together as a couple. Their relationship is so honest and so sweet, and it’s obvious that they genuinely care about each other. They have doubts, fights and ultimately, a deep understanding that comes with being aware and accepting of each other's flaws. The plot, in addition, was well constructed and was interesting throughout. The story didn't get boring or frustrating. The events followed one another at a fast pace from beginning to end.
Right off the bat we are introduced to Georgiana Caversteed, a rich shipping heiress and Benedict, “Ben”, Wylde, a penniless aristocrat and war hero. Since leaving the army, Ben has been working with Bow Street to uncover a plot to rescue Bonaparte from exile. Georgiana and Ben are forced into marriage to deter Georgiana’s cousin and other fortune hunters. Their marriage is a means to an end and a very beneficial arrangement for Ben, whose aristocratic family is in dire straits. They become partners in crime, they are a perfect match. Ben respects and admires Georgiana’s independence and sharp wit. She envies Ben’s assurance and aristocratic confidence. Beneath his rakish manners, he is very loyal, thoughtful and he has every intention of protecting Georgiana.
It was very easy to become completely engrossed in this story, and that is exactly what I enjoy about a good book!
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
4.5 Stars This story was wonderful, with superb character building, well written prose and a fascinating romance that builds up gradually. There were a4.5 Stars This story was wonderful, with superb character building, well written prose and a fascinating romance that builds up gradually. There were a lot of sweet moments between the main characters. While I’m never overly fond of the amnesia plot, I found that it really worked in this instance.
Robert Churchill-Gray, the Marquess of Westmorland, is a notorious rogue, heir to a dukedom and a very eligible bachelor. Attacked by highwaymen, he is beaten nearly to death and found by Lady Georgiana Lucas, who nurses him back to health, despite her hostility to him. Robert won the deed to her friends’ family home and she hates his reckless personality. The torment he endures because he suffers from amnesia gives him a vulnerability which is very touching.
I found Robert’s physical and emotional reactions to his amnesia believable. Also, this character was much more likeable after he lost his memory, he was no longer so disregarding of those around him that were not in his circle of friends. He is a man of contradictions and I loved him, despite his past faults. The memory loss allows him a fresh start. So the rest of the book is about the relationship that is slowly developing between Georgina and Robert, and the slow return of his memory. But what happens when he remembers how things really were and who he really is?
Despite her lies, Georgiana was so lovely. Considerate, smart and determined. She has believed it necessary to lie for the sake of a man she previously disliked, keeping her stories straight and fighting off her growing attraction to him. Of course, her lie is getting out of hand, but I could forgive her. She wanted to save and protect him while he was utterly vulnerable. Robert stirs in her the longing for a life she never knew she craved until he came along.
Georgiana and Robert are unlikely partners. Their journey to happiness is sweet, poignant and suspenseful as they struggle to overcome the obstacles that lie in their path. Both strong and determined people, they are clearly made for each other, and I enjoyed seeing them find their happy ending. This book is the third installment in the Wagers of Sin series, but it can be read as a standalone.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
This book was fantastic, with depth of emotion, an absorbing storyline and the ups and downs of a fast paced love story. From the very beginn4.5 Stars
This book was fantastic, with depth of emotion, an absorbing storyline and the ups and downs of a fast paced love story. From the very beginning, the characters captured my heart.
A large part of the reason why I enjoyed this book so much was because of the hero: Piers, the Duke of Redmayne. He is such an interesting, mysterious, seductive character. I loved him from the moment he stepped on the page. There’s just something about him that lures you in, he is a beautiful, complicated hero. He might appear cold, brooding and unfeeling, but it not so, he really is a sweetheart, protective and tender. Regardless of the unusual circumstances, he soon finds himself intrigued with the heroine, Lady Alexandra Lane.
Alexandra is the daughter of an impoverished earl. She has created the Red Rogues Society, with her two best friends, Francesca and Cecily. They met in a Swiss private school and were determined to learn all the things not allowed women. They have vowed to remain spinsters and are very close. I loved Alexandra’s determination to remain true to her heart and ideals, despite a traumatic experience. She is a doctor in history, smart and well-traveled. Yet, she has spent a decade doing her best to avoid men. She feels that loneliness is safer than love. Her smile is a mask to hide her deepest fears and pain from the world. I loved the strength that she showed throughout this book. But Piers is the kind of man who could steal from her what she has fought to regain: her dignity and her sanity.
Alexandra and Piers strike a deal : a marriage of convenience. It was is a bit of a stretch, but somehow I did not mind. Their relationship felt right and it felt meant to be. Watching them grow closer was very gratifying. Their bond was emotional, sensual, spiritual and intellectual.
The major plot twist concerns who Alexandra’s enemy really is, culminating in a compelling and dark tale that kept me riveted to the pages.
I adore Kerrigan Byrne’s writing style, her prose is elegant and vivid. Her novels are always extremely tightly plotted. There is also something about the tone of her books that I find irresistible, a combination of darkness and lightness. I look forward to reading more books by this talented author.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
Lady Bodicea, « Betsy », Wilde is the duke’s eldest daughter and is considered the wildest of the Wildes. Despite her reputation, she is very p4 Stars
Lady Bodicea, « Betsy », Wilde is the duke’s eldest daughter and is considered the wildest of the Wildes. Despite her reputation, she is very popular on the marriage market. Betsy has mastered the rules of polite society because it was her duty to her family, but she is tired of being perfect, she wants to be more than the role that society puts her in. She wants to be herself and longs for adventure. She is an endearing character with profound inner strength and resolve, but not without insecurities. She has been deeply traumatized by her mother’s abandonment of her family.
Lord Jeremy Roden is a survivor. He returned from war in the American colonies, physically and emotionally battered. He was declared a hero but sees himself as a complete failure because he couldn’t save his men and lost his entire platoon. He is best friend with North and Parth and Lindow Castle has become his safe heaven. The billiard room is the perfect place to wrestle with his demons. It is also the place where Betsy has decided to challenge him.
Their interactions are, in turn, awkward, charming, hilarious, heartbreaking, sweet, and sexy. Their verbal sparring was delightful. Betsy makes Jeremy feel better, she is the only person he is willing to turn to. What neither one of them realize at first is that they need each other to help them heal. Love can set them free. What was great about the relationship between Betsy and Jeremy was that you really do see it form before your eyes. There is no instant attraction but there is real chemistry from the start.
Along the way, we are re-introduced to the Wilde family and it reminded me that Eloisa James has created lovely characters. I can’t wait for more of their stories. This story was beautiful, entertaining and funny. It was less intense compared to previous installments I’ve read in the series.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy provided by the publisher. ...more
There is something about Joanna Shupe’s writing that completely draws me in. In this instance, the chemistry and history between the main chara4 Stars
There is something about Joanna Shupe’s writing that completely draws me in. In this instance, the chemistry and history between the main characters made this book a page-turner. The characters are likeable, confident, and enticing. They are opposites, and it was so much fun watching them grow closer and closer.
Frank Tripp is a celebrity and a self-made man. He started from humble beginnings but was able to make a name for himself through talent and determination. The attorney of prominent and wealthy clients, he has built a reputation on twisting the facts in favor of his clients. He is not proud of it, but it’s a lucrative business and he always gets what he wants. This character is shrewd, enigmatic and brutally honest.
Marion “Mamie” Greene is a Fifth avenue princess and she has always done as she pleases. Despite her parents’ expectations, she wants a marriage based on more than convenience and social expectations. She is sassy, witty and likeable. She is such a complex, refreshing character, smart, generous and reckless. Mamie is Frank’s client daughter and he is trying to protect her, but she challenges him. He has been chasing her about New York looking out for her interests and safety. Against his better judgment, he wants to help her, even if it could mean the end of his social standing. He allows her to turn his life upside down and she helps him discover the need for generosity. They had perfect chemistry together and I loved their funny banter.
Overall, this was a great start to a new series, once again set in New-York in Gilded Age, with a swoon-worthy hero and a strong, feisty heroine. I enjoyed both the writing and the story. My one complaint is that such a lovely story fizzled out with a rather rushed ending. I would have liked to have seen more drama leading up to the final page, but I also loved how Mamie's relationship with her family evolved over the course of the book.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
Highland Crown is the first book in May McGoldrick’s latest series “Royal Highlander” set in Scotland in 1820. This book held a lot of promise. HoweveHighland Crown is the first book in May McGoldrick’s latest series “Royal Highlander” set in Scotland in 1820. This book held a lot of promise. However, a slow and repetitive start almost made this book a DNF for me. I had issues with the pacing of the story and the overload of historical information. I liked that the authors wove actual history into the story, but I wanted more focus on the characters and the development of their relationship.
The story is about Isabelle Murray, a physician and surgeon, dedicated to her profession, and Cinaed Mackintosh, owner and shipmaster of the Highland Crown. Both of them are considered enemies of the Crown. Cinaed is an outlaw and has been wanted for years. He has operated on both sides of the law, bringing illegal arms to the Highlanders who refuse to give up the fight against the British authorities. Isabelle is wanted for treason and the government has offered a bounty on her head. Cinaed has been shot and is badly wounded. Saving Cinaed restores Isabelle’s confidence in her abilities and in the future. I loved her positive outlook on life despite the difficulties.
Overall, this book was a pleasant read, but far from the authors’ best book. The hero and heroine were likeable, but their romance was a bit lackluster.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
The romance element of this book was good, but the plot was a bit thin for my liking. Delilah and Thomas were very comfortable with each othe3.5 Stars
The romance element of this book was good, but the plot was a bit thin for my liking. Delilah and Thomas were very comfortable with each other and I loved how well they knew each other. Having been friends since childhood, they share a close bond and deep affection. Where Delilah is gregarious, exuberant in nature, Thomas is quiet and patient. Delilah enjoys making matches for others and she didn’t spare a thought to her own. Thomas is convinced they are a perfect match and he has been waiting the right time to make his move. But Delilah is unpredictable, and he is afraid of losing his best friend.
I loved Thomas. His character is genuine and consistent. He is also very endearing. The smoldering banter was somewhat lacking between these two though. They were a cute couple, although I wanted them to realize they were made for each other sooner.
All in all, this story is refreshing all while being cute and entertaining. Like all the other books in the series, this is a well-written and lighthearted story. I enjoy Valerie Bowman's writing style. And she never fails to deliver a very satisfying HEA.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
A strong willed yet sweet heroine, a serious, emotionally battered gentleman with a soft side and a marriage of convenience trope. There was nothing t A strong willed yet sweet heroine, a serious, emotionally battered gentleman with a soft side and a marriage of convenience trope. There was nothing that could stop me from loving this new addition in the series.
The author does an excellent job setting up the premise of Thea’s dilemma. After her grandfather’s death, she has felt adrift and lonely. She is a strong woman battling with a serious problem : a relative is challenging her claim to her family title and estate. Her solicitor has suggested a marriage of convenience with a man from a family with powerful political connections. The perfect candidate is Lord William Cavensham. But despite his family’s matchmaking efforts, Will doesn’t want marriage or love.
I absolutely loved the plot and the writing style. The heroine is a likeable character, she never lets people tell her how to live her life and will always fight for the welfare of her tenants. William was a bit stiff but such a sweetheart, caring and thoughtful. He is willing to help Thea, escort her to society events and introduce her to friends who could help her cause. Their friendship is comfortable and perfect. I liked the gradual way they fell in love, it was realistic.
This story had all the makings of an enjoyable read. It had some strong moments and overall it was an easy, heartwarming read.
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
I loved this new installment in Janna MacGregor’s debut series. The heroine, Lady Emma Cavensham, is such a strong, sassy and bubbly character. She haI loved this new installment in Janna MacGregor’s debut series. The heroine, Lady Emma Cavensham, is such a strong, sassy and bubbly character. She has a tenacity I enjoyed and seeks a career and independence. She also has a tendency to outsmart the men in her life! She is a feminist pioneer and is willing to fight for women’s rights. She plans to set up a financial institution to help other women better their lives. Despite her noble endeavors, she has a preoccupation with revenge. Her best friend was murdered by her husband and she will do anything to bring her murderer to justice.
Nick St. Mauer, the Earl of Somerton, is her knight in shining armor and a savvy businessman. This character is not accustomed to compromise and never acts on impulse, and yet he will do anything for Emma. Her opinion of him matters more than his business ventures. Their antics were amusing, Emma doesn’t hesitate to put Nick in his place for trying to dictate her actions or interfere in her plans to avenge her friend. Nick is always there for her, even when the consequences of her actions lead them to a forced, unplanned marriage. He is protective, shrewd and caring.
The romance is well-developed and gave me the sense of a strong and deep emotional connection between Emma and Nick. I was not a fan of the series of misunderstandings and communication breakdowns that began poisoning their marriage in the last part of the story, though. But overall, I appreciated the pacing of the story, the writing and the satisfying ending. The author’s writing style is easy to read and the story took me through a gamut of emotions. Janna McGregor has penned a charming and lovely story on new beginnings, with a vivacious heroine and a dreamy hero. Every book in the Cavensham Heiresses series is a standalone but they interconnect and go in a timeline starting with the first one. I recommend this book!...more
I loved, loved this one! I was hooked from the beginning, this was a book I read quite easily and enjoyed a lot. This book oozed with sweet unbridled I loved, loved this one! I was hooked from the beginning, this was a book I read quite easily and enjoyed a lot. This book oozed with sweet unbridled romance that made me frantically flip through the pages! I was blown away by the intensity of the romance. The characterization is excellent, I liked both the hero and the heroine, they are a perfect match and they share a deep emotional connection.
Nicholas Lyon, Duke of Tremayne, is a survivor. Everything he has, he has worked for. A victim of his father's cruelty, he has survived on the streets and is now the feared and respected owner of a gambling empire. He is a shrewd and ruthless man of business and he wants nothing to do with the ancestral Tremayne estate, Enderley Castle, a place he hates for good reason. He never wanted the title and the duties of the dukedom.
Mina Thorne is Enderley Castle’s steward. She hasn’t chosen her job, but she can’t give it up. She is dutiful, loyal and has no other prospects. Mina is an endearing heroine, witty, kindhearted, stubborn and brave.
What follows is a delicious slow-burn of a story in which Mina makes Nick believe in a happy future. She stands up to him, contradicts him and, most importantly, tells him the truth. She brings him around to seeing value in the estate and its people. The slow and beautiful transformation of Nick was truly breathtaking. Nick has a really good heart, but he doesn’t flaunt his goodness. Their romance leaves you with no doubt that these two were meant for each other. You're bound to fall for them, to root for them. The ending was perfect and left me with a smile on my face and in a happy place.
Christy Carlyle is a superb writer, blending humor, sensitivity and depth of emotion in a way that pulled me in completely. Her writing is crisp, clever and witty. If you are looking for a historical romance that will have you smiling, sighing and blushing throughout, then this book is a good choice! It is the first in a new series and I can’t wait for Nick’s friends’ story....more
I loved this story, it was an enchanting read with a healthy dose of suspense and great character development.
Fiona Hartley is an endearing her4 Stars
I loved this story, it was an enchanting read with a healthy dose of suspense and great character development.
Fiona Hartley is an endearing heroine. She needs a husband to access her marriage settlement and pay a blackmailer, to protect her sister from scandal and humiliation. David Gray, the Earl of Ravenport, is the perfect candidate, due to his lack of fortune and brooding personality that keeps the competition at bay. Despite his financial difficulties, he is not easily going along with Fiona’s bold plan. He tries to scare her off, but without success. I loved Fiona’s honesty and her determination to wiggle past the earl’s defenses. She is willing to go to great lengths to protect her sister.
David was everything I love in a hero. He was protective, loyal, charming, attentive, honest. He has been deeply hurt in a previous relationship, and he has good cause to be wary of others, but Fiona brings out his tender, carefree side. He is charmed by her thoughtfulness and her honesty. He finds that he’s being irresistibly drawn to her and he can’t keep her at arm's length.
I loved watching Fiona and David’s transformation. As soon as they meet, there is some serious tension building between them. The relationship is slow building and completely sweet, their connection is tangible. This was a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed!
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
An intriguing mystery with suspense, twists and turns plus a beautiful Christmas romance, all wrapped into this book.
Daffin Oakleaf is a Bow Street RuAn intriguing mystery with suspense, twists and turns plus a beautiful Christmas romance, all wrapped into this book.
Daffin Oakleaf is a Bow Street Runner, a member of a small force of detectives attached to the court at Bow Street who investigate crimes. He loves his work and it has made him a wealthy man. Lady Regina Haversham is a rich lady of the ton. There may be a connection between them but Daffin sees Regina as off limits. His wealth doesn’t make up for the gulf between their social status and her family would never allow her to marry him. But he likes her, she is practical, kind and easygoing. They have a lot in common and they both grew up without parents. Daffin can’t stand to see her accept a loveless marriage, even though she seems resigned to her fate.
But there is something odd going on, and there are accidents that can't be explained. Someone is trying to harm Regina and she has the feeling that she is being watched. Regina is a captivating character, headstrong and courageous. Daffin is determined to protect her and to track down the villain threatening her.
Regina and Daffin truly belong together but first they must overcome all the perils that will plague them.
This book is a fast, suspenseful read and I enjoyed going along for the ride. The mystery was well executed and kept me guessing. The reader is led along at just the right pace and the facts are discovered in just the right way. My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. ...more
This book, and the series so far, is just fantastic. I'm completely enthralled with the endearing characters and overall story of the Wilde f4.5 Stars
This book, and the series so far, is just fantastic. I'm completely enthralled with the endearing characters and overall story of the Wilde family.
Lavinia Gray’s family is in dire financial straits, her mother is a thief and a drug addict. She has no dowry, her family’s reputation is shattered and her prospects are bleak. She needs a wealthy husband or a plan to make money fast. Parth Sterling is a man who gets things done, he is competent, shrewd and a problem solver. Lavinia and Parth have a history of hurting each other’s feelings, their relationship is complicated and sometimes conflictual. Parth aggravates Lavinia, but she desperately needs his help and goes as far as to propose to him.
Parth isn’t a jerk by any measure. He’s snarky and arrogant, but he genuinely cares for Lavinia and would do anything for her. He is a sexy, loyal and smart hero, even though his apparent indecision did get on my nerves at times. But the more I read, the more I understood him, and it only highlighted his growth as a person. He is quite a romantic and is very charming. The Wilde are the closest thing he has to a family, and he is the one who tends to take care of everyone.
Lavinia is a resourceful heroine, she is determined with a great sense of honor and a keen interest in finance and business. She wants a husband who would respect her fascination with fashion and would allow her to be herself. I admired her tenacity.
I loved the dynamic between Lavinia, her cousin Diana and Lady Knowe, the duke’s twin sister. Every single interaction between them was delightful.
I enjoyed the vividly drawn characters, the humor and the deep emotion of this beautiful story. ...more
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