Review: The Heir Affair (Royal We #2) - Heather Cocks & Jessica Morgan

From Goodreads: Making it up the aisle was the easy part: After marrying the heir to the throne, Rebecca “Bex” Porter must survive her own scandals as she adjusts to life in the glamorous British royal family, in this “highly anticipated” follow-up to The Royal We, the “fun and dishy” bestseller and NYT Summer Reading List pick inspired by Will and Kate’s romance (People).

After a scandalous secret turns their fairy-tale wedding into a nightmare, Rebecca “Bex” Porter and her husband Prince Nicholas are in self-imposed exile. The public is angry. The Queen is even angrier. And the press is salivating. Cutting themselves off from friends and family, and escaping the world’s judgmental eyes, feels like the best way to protect their fragile, all-consuming romance.

But when a crisis forces the new Duke and Duchess back to London, the Band-Aid they’d placed over their problems starts to peel at the edges. Now, as old family secrets and new ones threaten to derail her new royal life, Bex has to face the emotional wreckage she and Nick left behind: with the Queen, with the world, and with Nick’s brother Freddie, whose sins may not be so easily forgotten — nor forgiven.

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My Thoughts: This was the perfect summer beach/pool read when I escaped from quarantine.  Seriously.  Life is heavy, lots of stress between kids and work and just life, but this made me kick back and relax and just enjoy my time...which I so needed!  I have to admit, when #Netgalley granted me the opportunity to review this book, I had yet to read the first in the series.  But, I quickly remedied that because it is also a good summer read and was extremely enjoyable and set up the second book quite well. This is one of those series where I would definitely suggest reading the first book in the series before this one...could you catch up? Of course. But does it make more sense having read the first? Most definitely.

This tracks as a bit of the authors' spin on the real life romance between Prince William and Kate, with an American twist and more drama than at least any of us were aware of between the brothers (not that I think any of this is impossible...in the world of royalty and the crazy rich, anything is possible). That being said, their spin is just enough fantasy to set it apart from the newspapers (or blogs) and make it what it is...a fictional story of two people who fall in love trying to navigate their families, friends, love, getting pregnant, and all the other things that all the rest of us mortals have to work through, even if on a different, less public, scale. ANd really, particularly right now, who doesn't think about escaping to a place where you are unknown, without the day to day worries and responsibilities that we have that seem multiplied in this challenging world?  That's how we start off this second look into the relationship of Bex and Nicholas, as they hide from the world and the scandal that erupted as they began their married lives (again, why you need to read the first book).

I'm not a royal watcher, I don't follow the blogs or the news related to the British Royal Family...but I don't live under a rock and so I did see parallels to real life in this.  While there are parallels, it's not real, and it's sweet, and sassy, and frustrating, and happy, and sad, and all you can hope an escape into a book can be when you really, really don't want to go back to reality,  I heartily recommend not just the Heir Affair, but also The Royal We, as great summer/breach/pool/vacation/staycation escape books that can transport you to a world of richness, and pomp and circumstance and yet make you very, very thankful that you are where you are and perhaps don't need to deal with quite that much drama and intrigue and pressure.

**I reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review, thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this, and the incentive to read the first book in the series!**

Book Review: In Bed with the Earl - Christi Caldwell

From Goodreads: Christi Caldwell, USA TODAY bestselling author of the Wicked Wallflowers series, combs London’s underground and finds romance and danger for a missing lord and the lady who loves him.

To solve a mystery that’s become the talk of the ton, no clues run too deep for willful reporter Verity Lovelace. Not even in the sewers of London. That’s precisely where she finds happily self-sufficient scavenger Malcom North, lost heir to the Earl of Maxwell. Now that Verity’s made him front-page news, what will he make of her?

Kidnapped as a child, with no memories of his well-heeled past, Malcom prefers the grimy spoils of the culverts to the gilded riches of society. Damn the feisty beauty who exposed the contented tosher to a parade of fortune-hunting matchmakers. How to keep them at bay? Verity must pretend to be his wife. She owes him.

The intimacy of this necessary arrangement—Verity and Malcom thrust together in close quarters—soon sparks an irresistible heat. But when the charade ends, the danger begins. Will love be enough to protect them from a treacherous plot devised to ruin them?

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My Thoughts:  I found myself enjoying this book enough that I devoured it in one setting, always a good sign of a fun and good read!  The heroine demonstrates the fine line between courageous and brave and stubborn and desperate...and the risks one is willing to take for family and those we love. Our hero, as we learned in the previous book, has both some shady, unscrupulous family members, and some that are innocent of a series of wrongdoings against him as a child, leading to his making a living, a rather good living, as a scavenger. He's stubborn, sometimes cruel, friendless (in his mind), and still living like he's desperate and not comfortable in terms of money and access to the necessities. Together they come together and end up finding a way to help each other out...security for Verity and a sense of belonging and security for Malcom as well. Verity helps him see that it is not him against the world, no matter how he tries to frame it, and that actions have repercussions internally and externally.  I loved how it all came together at the end, how they work through personal and external challenges, and ultimately determine that life is better surrounded by other people that care about you, and vice versa.

Thank you to #NetGalley and #Montlake Romance for the opportunity to read this advance copy! 

Book Review: Hid From Our Eyes - Julia Spencer-Fleming

 
Hid From Our Eyes - Julie Spencer-Fleming

Publisher Description: THE USA TODAY BESTSELLER

New York Times bestseller Julia Spencer-Fleming returns to her beloved Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne mystery series with new crimes that span decades in Hid from Our Eyes.

"New parents Clare Fergusson and police chief Russ Van Alstyne tackle three copycat murders and one testy baby in this riveting addition to an acclaimed series" —People magazine

1952. Millers Kill Police Chief Harry McNeil is called to a crime scene where a woman in a party dress has been murdered with no obvious cause of death.

1972. Millers Kill Police Chief Jack Liddle is called to a murder scene of a woman that's very similar to one he worked as a trooper in the 50s. The only difference is this time, they have a suspect. Young Vietnam War veteran Russ van Alstyne found the body while riding his motorcycle and is quickly pegged as the prime focus of the investigation.

Present-day. Millers Kill Police Chief Russ van Alstyne gets a 911 call that a young woman has been found dead in a party dress, the same MO as the crime he was accused of in the 70s. The pressure is on for Russ to solve the murder before he's removed from the case.

Russ will enlist the help of his police squad and Reverend Clare Fergusson, who is already juggling the tasks of being a new mother to her and Russ's baby and running St. Alban's Church, to finally solve these crimes.

Readers have waited years for this newest book and Julia Spencer-Fleming delivers with the exquisite skill and craftsmanship that have made her such a success.

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My thoughts: I cannot remember when or how I first discovered this beautiful series by Julia Spencer-Fleming, but I am so glad I did those several years ago.  She returns to the series with another great installment that further explore the extremely realistic relationship between Russ and Clare (including all the faults and struggles and strengths of joys of our main characters and the frustration of being new parents and being a working mother).

The characters in this series are ones that just make you like them, make you appreciate them, and make you want to just enjoy a visit with sometime. The world they inhibit and the people that surround them is so well-developed that you feel like you know them and appreciate the small(ish) town feel and interactions. While the main story focuses on Clare and Russ and the investigation they are attempting to resolve that has historical ties to the area and to Russ personally, there are related and separate stories that are well-done and add to the story and big picture versus just happening in the background. Ms. Spencer-Fleming has a way of wrapping in enough facts to make you sure you know exactly who did what and when, yet throws in enough uncertainties and twists and turns to keep you guessing as well.  I'm not sure how that happens or works, but somehow she does it!

As they work through the mystery, there's a lot of personal issues they are working through as well, and there is such a cliffhanger at the end that I'm left with no doubt that we have another book ahead of us in the (hopefully) near future. These are not my normal style of books I would say, although I tend to read just about anything that piques my interest.  That being said, I love the story, the character and world-building, the mystery, and the emotion that Ms. Spencer-Fleming brings to all her books.  I'm so happy that this series has returned and am anxiously awaiting the next book in this series.

Thank you to #NetGalley and St. Martin's press for the opportunity to review the advance copy!

Book Review: An Heiress to Remember - Maya Rodale

  An Heiress to Remember by Maya Rodale

Goodreads Description: USA Today bestselling author Maya Rodale’s Gilded Age Girls Club series continues with an enemies-to-lovers romance that shows love is sweeter than revenge.

Uptown Heiress

Once a society darling, Beatrice Goodwin has returned to Manhattan in a cloud of scandal. She is determined to save the bankrupt family business—Goodwin’s Department Store—and transform it into the shopping destination for Manhattan’s women. She will certainly never, ever sell it to Wes Dalton.

Downtown Rogue

Wes Dalton came from nowhere to possess one of the great fortunes of the Gilded Age, thanks to his premier department store located opposite Goodwin’s. This “Merchant Prince” never forgot the girl who got away—or her parents who made it clear that he’d never be rich, powerful or respectable enough. He has sworn revenge—until Beatrice’s return complicates everything.

Happy ever after at last . . . ?

Now Goodwin’s and Dalton’s are dueling to be the best department store in Manhattan. Beatrice and Wes will stop at nothing to impress, and not even the sparks flying between them will get in the way of their fierce rivalry. They’re competitors by day and lovers by night, until they’re forced to choose what is sweeter: revenge, success or happy ever after at last.

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My Thoughts: This series by Maya Rodale is quickly moving up my list to being one of my favorites...ever. EVER. I have said it before, I love me a strong, smart, independent heroine no matter the time period, and the women of the Gilded Age Girls Club series fit that completely. I love that it's not just our main characters that fit that mold, but all the supporting ones as well. I think one of my favorite things about this series though, aside from the delightful writing and storytelling, is that I come away from every book learning something new about history (even if just "based upon" true facts) that I can then research and learn. While some argue the topics are "frivolous" (birth of the makeup industry, shopping, clothes) they demonstrate the birth of women's rights, recognition of females as entrepreneurs and people in their own rights and minds, smart and capable and frankly, awesome.  

I thought the backstory here was unique...a divorced Duchess coming home to America, finding herself and rebuilding the family empire.  I really enjoyed the history between Wes and Beatrice, their drive and visions, frankly just the entire story captivated me, and I can't say that often happens from start to finish. The story was not just strong between the main characters and battling their personal and professional demons, but the entire book was just wonderful...dialogue, laughs, love, drama, all you could hope for overall. All I can say is read this book...and read the previous books in the series, and revel in the atmosphere, the relationships, the emotions, and the history.

I so appreciate #NetGalley and #Avon for granting this wish and providing an advance copy!

 

Reviews to Come!

Man, what a year. Both as in the past 12 months, and really, the past 4 months, which has felt like at least 4 years.

Life's been a bit hectic with new jobs, new roles, kids, life, and now a pandemic that's requiring all of that to happen in one place at the same time. After we get through this I think all of us should just high five and congratulate each other for being here and sustaining...because doing just that is an accomplishment.

That being said, with the arrival of May comes what I'm hoping is some more time for me to relax and focus on the things that bring me some mental joy...reading and crafting.  I'm so far behind on everything in those categories. I have several reviews to write and post from the past few months, and the list of crochet and cross-stitch projects that I've planned as gifts is woefully long.  More reviews to come, and hopefully more reading to follow!

In the meantime, I hope all you might read this stay as safe as possible and keep on keeping on.  This statement was something I received in an email recently and it has become my new affirmation

Review: A Duke Changes Everything - Christy Carlyle

A Duke Changes Everything - Christy Carlyle

From Goodreads:In the first novel in Christy Carlyle’s sizzling Duke’s Den series, three men, intent on making a fortune, discover irresistible opportunities . . .

Nicholas Lyon gambled his way into a fortune and ownership of the most opulent, notorious gentlemen’s club in England. But when Nick’s cruel brother dies, he inherits a title he never wanted. The sooner Nick is rid of the estate that has always haunted him, the sooner he can return to the life he’s built in London. But there’s one obstacle—the exquisite Thomasina Thorne.

When the new heir to the Tremayne dukedom suddenly appears in Mina Thorne’s life, she’s flustered. Not only is he breathtakingly handsome, but he’s also determined to take away her home and position as steward of the Enderley estate. If Mina learns what makes the enigmatic duke tick, perhaps she can change his mind—as long as she doesn’t get too close to him.

With each day Nick spends with Mina, his resolve weakens as their colliding wills lead to explosive desire. Could she be the one woman who can help him finally bury the ghosts of his past?

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My Thoughts: I'm a big fan of strong, independent women characters that buck traditional roles, and Mina certainly fits that description.  She's built a life for herself despite challenges and disapproval, all of it which may be falling apart with the arrival of the new heir. He has his own issues of course (what good hero doesn't?!) and is determined to get in and get out and never return.

Of course they meet, there are sparks, a relationship blooms, and a happy ever after.  The road that you take from beginning to end though isn't quite as straight and narrow (or boring) as that seems though, and we were left with a fun, quick read that introduces us to a new cast of interesting characters. The uncertainty comes from emotional issues and how the past can affect the future, as well as how the future can impact our ability to deal with our past. With a nod to the current times, we see innovation and science come to the forefront of the story, as well as strong women. I'm intrigued to see how this series moves forward with the men involved and what binds them.  It has great potential and I'm looking forward to book two.

 

Review: Ten Kisses to Scandal: Misadventures in Matchmaking - Vivenne Lorret

Ten Kisses to Scandal: Misadventures in Matchmaking - Vivenne Lorret
 
From Goodreads: 

The Bourne Matrimonial Agency has one rule—never fall in love with the client. However, they never said anything about kissing a rake…

Briar Bourne’s matchmaking career could be summed up in two words—comic disaster. Unless she can learn about the irresistible forces that draw men and women together, her professional future looks rather bleak. But Briar has an intriguing plan—enlisting London’s most irredeemable rake to teach her everything he knows about attraction. Given his notorious reputation, it’s no surprise that Nicholas Blacklowe, the Earl of Edgemont, requests one thing in exchange for his tutelage. For every lesson, he wants a kiss in return. And what harm could there be in a simple kiss? After all, Briar would never fall for a scoundrel…

Nicholas has no romantic notions about love, and no intention of changing his ways. He’s only helping Briar so that she can find the perfect bride for his jilted cousin. Yet Briar is so clever, so curious, so candid—so blasted tempting—that soon, Nicholas can’t stop wondering what it might be like if he was irresistible to her.

Ten lessons. Ten kisses. And a million ways to fall hopelessly, scandalously in love.

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My Thoughts:
The second in a series, this was one of my binge reads over the holidays...it was fun, made me laugh, and had smart characters I enjoyed. The first was also an enjoyable read, but definitely not necessary to understanding and enjoying this book.  We see a bit more of the sister's background and emotional trauma from their previous life experiences in this addition to the series.

Like her older sister, Briar cherishes her volume of Jane Austen's book that was a gift from her mother.  We don't see as much focus on the book as we did in the first, but it does play a role in the story all the same.  I loved Briar's attitude, her hopefulness, her independence, and the fact she has "lucky" items...which don't always work to obvious advantage!  Our hero is the typical rake with no desire of marriage that of course can't resist our heroine, but there's a bit more depth to the character development than just the traditional hero.  

I found it fun and enjoyable, and laughed out loud at some of the secondary characters, some of which still confuse me as to their role in the story and if we'll see them in the third installment.  It's fairly clear the hero of book 3, and it sounds like a definitely departure from the Duke and Earl we've met in books one and two.  

** review copied provided through Edelweiss **

Review: Double Blind - Iris & Roy Johansen

From Goodreads: Kendra Michaels, formerly blind and now a hired gun for law enforcement agencies who relies on her razor-sharp powers of observation, is reluctant to help the FBI with the most recent case they’ve brought to her. But then she hears the details: the body was found just blocks away from Kendra’s condo. The young woman was carrying an envelope with Kendra’s name on it, and inside was an SD card with what appears to be an innocuous video of a wedding reception. The woman died trying to get the video to Kendra, but for what purpose? Before Kendra and the FBI can answer that question, the bride is abducted from her suburban home.

And so the hunt is on for a killer whose nightmarish plan is slowly becoming clear. A plan that involves a powerful law firm and a multi-billion dollar corporation. As the body count rises, Kendra joins forces with private investigator Jessie Mercado and agent-for-hire Adam Lynch to stop the plot as it grows ever closer to its terrifying conclusion.

In Double Blind, Iris and Roy Johansen deliver an emotional, gripping new entry in the bestselling Kendra Michaels series.


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My Thoughts: Iris Johansen and her various series are on my must read list and I was thrilled to have a chance to review the latest installment of the Kendra Michaels series, which Ms. Johansen wrote with her son, Roy Johansen.

This is the book that many fans have been waiting for. A fast paced thriller, a great mystery, strong characters, emotional tension, and more. I devoured it and already want to re-read it!

Kendra's keen powers of observation put her once again in the middle of an FBI investigation, this time because the victim had an envelope with Kendra's name on it. Kendra has to call on Adam Lynch once again for his support, as well as investigator Jessie Mercado, as the case becomes more perilous and the killer begins to go after those Kendra cares about.

I'm intrigued by the ending here and anxious to see how and where the story progresses. This could be a standalone book, but I think having some background on the relationships of the recurring characters helps make it a fuller and more enjoyable reading experience.

Review: The Duke Buys a Bride - Sophie Jordan

From Goodreads: A bride wasn’t in his plans . . .
The last thing Marcus, the Duke of Autenberry, expects to see after sleeping off a night’s drunken shenanigans is a woman being auctioned in the village square. Before he can think about the ramifications, he buys her, thinking he’s winning the girl her freedom. Instead, he discovers he’s bought a wife.

A duke wasn’t in hers . . .

Alyse Bell is almost rid of the shackles that bound her in a name-only marriage, but the day her friend promised to purchase her in a wife auction, he vanishes, leaving her to face a mob of unsavory bachelors intent on owning her body and soul. But the appearance of a wicked, wealthy stranger changes her path forever.

The road to ruin . . .

Marcus doesn’t know what to do with the impertinent chit who clearly isn’t duchess material! Insisting their marriage isn’t legitimate, they leave for his estate in Scotland, hoping to devise a plan to get rid of each other. However, on a journey fraught with misadventure, their attraction grows and Marcus realizes he’ll do anything to keep this fiery woman for his own.

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My Thoughts: This book might have one of the best opening scenes I have seen in a long time...at least when it comes to entertainment value.  Finding a haughty, snobbish character face down in a pile of manure sets a great tone for a story that is fun, light, and yet also manages to demonstrate good character development.  A tale of two extreme opposites coming together, we see our hero, Marcus, start to grow and look beyond himself, while at the same time better understanding his personality. His impetuous, yet very human and kind, actions at the action, where he first meets Alyse show a side of him not previously seen in other books in the series. His actions immediately afterward, rude, boorish, focused only on himself, are much more in character...and yet we see a change in that attitude thanks to the willfulness, bravery, stubbornness, and inner strength of Alyse.

It was both fascinating and surreal to learn that something like wife actions ever existed, let alone in what I would consider fairly recent times. The cruelty of people towards those weaker than them never ceases to amaze me, whether now or centuries ago. 

While the story seems hard to imagine at times, seeing some big shifts in personalities and circumstances, Ms. Jordan does a nice job of handling these changes, often making them full in terms of emotions and challenges, and recognizing that relationships and personalities are imperfect and people all have defenses and reactions that evolve over time.

Sophie Jordan is an author on my to-read list, the more I've read of her books the more I enjoy her style and stories, in this or any other genre. 

*Review copy provided by publisher through Edelweiss* 

Review: Born to Be Wilde - Eloisa James

From Goodreads: The richest bachelor in England plays matchmaker…for an heiress he wants for himself!

For beautiful, witty Lavinia Gray, there's only one thing worse than having to ask the appalling Parth Sterling to marry her: being turned down by him.

Now the richest bachelor in England, Parth is not about to marry a woman as reckless and fashion-obsessed as Lavinia; he's chosen a far more suitable bride.

But when he learns of Lavinia's desperate circumstances, he offers to find her a husband. Even better, he'll find her a prince.

As usual, there's no problem Parth can't fix. But the more time he spends with the beguiling Lavinia, the more he finds himself wondering…

Why does the woman who's completely wrong feel so right in his arms?

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My Thoughts:  Of all the books I have been fortunate enough to get to review, this was maybe one I was most eagerly anticipating its publication!  I started reading it the moment I downloaded it and did not stop until I was done.  I adore Ms. James and her writing style, her plots, her characters, pretty much everything...and this did not disappoint.

Lavinia, our heroine, is seen as a frivolous society darling, but of course, there's more to her than just that.  While there is no doubt she is beautiful and had no problem spending money, shopping, and enjoying being the belle of the ball, when push comes to shove, she has an inner strength, determination, and entrepreneurial sense that is second to none.

Parth, our hero, is an adopted member of the Wilde family, who always felt he had something to prove.  He's a self-made man and over the years, he and Lavinia have mixed together about as well as oil and water.  On the surface at least...underlying that tension is attraction of course, and throughout the book we seek acknowledgement of that feeling between them.

Lavinia is determined to stand on her own and I think that, more than anything, is what made me like her.  She has a skill that many blow off, Parth included at first, but is something that she can turn into a way for her to bring back some semblance of control, and honor, to her life.  We don't often see stories that focus on a woman's honor, but that was clearly something that was important to Lavinia throughout the book.

It's also fun to see the interactions of the Wilde family, their whole-hearted support of those they love and are in their circle, and the ultimate happy-ever-after for Lavinia and Parth. 

*Review copy provided by publisher through Edelweiss*

Review: Improper Cross Stitch - Haley Pierson-Cox

*Update* - I just discovered the author, Haley Pierson-Cox has a craft-related podcast!  You can check it out here


Not Your Grandma's Cross-Stitch....

I'm a big fan of non-traditional cross-stitch.  I stumbled across a website a few years ago that inspired me to pick up the craft, and I quickly got hooked!  It's a very portable craft, something I can take with me easily when traveling, and depending on the pattern can be a quick way to satisfy my crafty side.  I'm not terribly artistic or creative, but I like things that give me a pattern to follow...cross-stitch is perfect for me in this way!  If I can do it, then anyone can :)  I'll have to post a few of my favorite personal creations on here later...

Improper Cross-Stitch starts with the basics for the newbie...I wish I would have had this when I started.  The website I used was great, but having something to review in my hands would have made it so much easier.  I also bought some supplies initially I didn't need or were wrong sizes, and this basic tutorial can prevent you from making my mistakes!

The preview copy I received was electronic and thus I didn't get to review all the patterns or see them in great detail.  I can say though that the ones I saw made me laugh out loud (most of the time), go awww (a few times), yell "YES" (several times), and generally make me think of a person I would make each one for in an instant.

Patterns in this book are creative...maybe not always in the "words" but how they are portrayed between the words used and the rest of the pictures or context provided absolutely make them entertaining.  I'm going to add this to my Christmas list for the coming year so that I can actually make several of these patterns myself!  In truth, I might not be able to wait until Christmas and may have to sneak in a purchase well before then...I can justify it as a Christmas present for others since I'll be making several as gifts (wine and cats and squad goals are two I saw for sure)!

Added bonus: a section of various alphabets for customizing creations and a section on designing your own patterns (for those of you with more artistic and creative skills than me!).

I'm excited to see the whole book and all of the patterns here upon its release, and think this would be a great library addition for a newbie or old pro when it comes to cross-stitch.

*Preview copy provided by publisher through Netgalley*
 

Review: A Duke by Default - Alyssa Cole

From Goodreads: Award-winning author Alyssa Cole’s Reluctant Royals series continues with a woman on a quest to be the heroine of her own story and the duke in shining armor she rescues along the way

New York City socialite and perpetual hot mess Portia Hobbs is tired of disappointing her family, friends, and—most importantly—herself. An apprenticeship with a struggling swordmaker in Scotland is a chance to use her expertise and discover what she’s capable of. Turns out she excels at aggravating her gruff silver fox boss…when she’s not having inappropriate fantasies about his sexy Scottish burr.

Tavish McKenzie doesn’t need a rich, spoiled American telling him how to run his armory…even if she is infuriatingly good at it. Tav tries to rebuff his apprentice, and his attraction to her, but when Portia accidentally discovers that he’s the secret son of a duke, rough-around-the-edges Tav becomes her newest makeover project.

Forging metal into weapons and armor is one thing, but when desire burns out of control and the media spotlight gets too hot to bear, can a commoner turned duke and his posh apprentice find lasting love?

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My Thoughts: I had a chance to review the second in Ms. Cole's "Reluctant Royals" series and once again, I was thoroughly entertained by the story.  Despite the whole marrying into royalty theme, which typically is not my cup of tea, Ms. Cole tells a compelling story that focuses on the people here, more on who they are than what they are.  These are definitely imperfect people with individual baggage and attitudes and challenges to overcome. It helps to have friends in high places here, to provide guidance and support and in some cases, security, but the focus remains on the relationship development of Portia (whom we met in Book 1) and Tavish (our reluctant royal). 

Portia is much more sympathetic in this book than in the previous, and we learn more about what has made her what she is today.  She's someone trying to turn her life around and be proud of herself, while managing to live her real life and not what others (*cough* parents *cough*) think she should do.  Tavish on the other hand can be a bit of an a-hole, but manages to pull himself out of true jerk territory by having a hidden softer side. Their coming together and watching them grow as a couple and individually made for a great story and went beyond the typical royal romance trope.

*Preview copy provided by publisher via Edelweiss* 

Review: A Princess in Theory - Alyssa Cole

From Goodreads:

From acclaimed author Alyssa Cole comes the tale of a city Cinderella and her Prince Charming in disguise . . .

Between grad school and multiple jobs, Naledi Smith doesn’t have time for fairy tales…or patience for the constant e-mails claiming she’s betrothed to an African prince. Sure. Right. Delete! As a former foster kid, she’s learned that the only things she can depend on are herself and the scientific method, and a silly e-mail won’t convince her otherwise.

Prince Thabiso is the sole heir to the throne of Thesolo, shouldering the hopes of his parents and his people. At the top of their list? His marriage. Ever dutiful, he tracks down his missing betrothed. When Naledi mistakes the prince for a pauper, Thabiso can’t resist the chance to experience life—and love—without the burden of his crown.

The chemistry between them is instant and irresistible, and flirty friendship quickly evolves into passionate nights. But when the truth is revealed, can a princess in theory become a princess ever after?

My Thoughts: 

I picked this book as part of the Read Harder reading challenge, and despite a few "quirks" I found a new author and a story that I really enjoyed and I look forward to reading more by Ms. Cole.

This is not a book or a story that is meant to seem grounded in reality.  Instead, it's a modern day fairy tale and if you go into it with that mindset it's a story to enjoy.  If you expect it to seem real, you'll find yourself saying "that could never happen" more than you'd like and probably reduce your enjoyment.  Instead, get lost in the fun and the romance, even if you are someone like me that never really dreamed of being a long-lost princess.

The only "quirk" I found while reading the book was that it is written in a style that is more informal than many books.  Not that most romance use overly formal language, but this is truly written as though the characters (modern 20-somethings) are speaking like they would to each other if they were real people in today's world.  It took a bit for me to get used to, and before long I was enjoying the story enough I didn't notice it as much.

It may defy reality, but the quickly developing relationship between our characters, the challenges they each face (some of their own making), and emotional struggles of trust and love make for an entertaining story. 

A much appreciated review copy received from Edelweiss!

Review: Hurts to Love You - Alisha Rai

From Goodreads: Being bad never felt so good, in the third novel in Alisha Rai’s sexy Forbidden Hearts series!

Well-behaved women don’t lust after men who love to misbehave.

Heiress Evangeline Chandler knows how to keep a secret . . . like her life-long crush on the tattooed hottie who just happens to be her big brother’s friend. She’s a Chandler, after all, and Chandlers don’t hook up with the help. Then again, they also don’t disobey their fathers and quit their respectable jobs, so good-girl rules may no longer apply.

Gabriel Hunter hides the pain of his past behind a smile, but he can’t hide his sudden attraction to his friend’s sheltered little sister. Eve is far too sweet to accept anything less than forever and there’s no chance of a future between the son of a housekeeper and the town’s resident princess.

When a wedding party forces Eve and Gabe into tight quarters, keeping their hands off each other will be as hard as keeping their clothes on. The need that draws them together is stronger than the forces that should shove them apart . . . but their sparks may not survive the explosion when long-buried secrets are finally unearthed.

My Thoughts: I picked up this author as part of a reading challenge that included reading a romance involving a diverse main character or that was written by a diverse author.  I was not familiar with Ms. Rai's work prior to the first in this series, and I had no idea what to expect. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised.  Her work is well-written and much more than "just" a romance.  The characters are well developed and she dives into deeper issues that are involved in love, relationships, family, and frankly, life. 

This is the third book in the series but can be read as a stand-alone.  Despite being the third in a series that follows two families, the characters don't get old and the story lines aren't the same throughout the series.  There are some underlying issues that carry through considering the ties between the books and the families, but overall, the underlying concerns, the issues that make up the story are unique throughout. Like the other books, we learn about the imperfections of Gabe and Eve, their insecurities, fears, worries, and we see them work to grow and move forward.  I think unlike many books where there are emotional and personal challenges, these don't get glossed over and working to overcome these fears and insecurities is not portrayed as an easy or perfect process.  All the relationships involve work, and that's real, which I think is important. Don't get me wrong, it is certainly a hot romance, but it was so much more than I expected and I highly recommend the whole series. 

A much appreciated review copy received from Edelweiss! 

Review: His Sinful Touch (Candace Camp)

From Goodreads: A lost identity. A dangerous mystery. And a deep love that can conquer it all.

When a mysterious gentleman arrives on his doorstep, Alexander Moreland is astonished to discover that the stranger is not a gentleman at all, but a beautiful young woman disguised as a man, and in great need of assistance. The woman remembers nothing except her own name, Sabrina, and has only the contents of her pockets as clues to her identity: a handkerchief, a pocket watch, a leather pouch, a torn scrap of paper and a gold ring.

Sabrina is certain that she is on the run from someone, or something—how else to explain the bruises on her face and the pervasive sense of dread she feels? She’s also certain that she trusts Alex to help her, and she can’t deny the sparks that fly between them. As they race through the English countryside, Sabrina and Alex must solve the mystery of Sabrina’s past—before whatever she’s running from catches up to them.

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My Thoughts: I've read a number of Ms. Camp's books, but had somehow missed this series (earlier books were released 10+ years ago, this is a new addition to the series).  I REALLY enjoyed this book, so much so that I read it all in one day and could not put it down.  What made the book for me was the characters and this unconventional family for this time period that is the heart of the series.  I picked up the series here with Book 5, and despite that it is easily a standalone read.  (That being said, I'm working on finding the others to get the backstory!)

Sabrina and Alex are the focus of the story, and the book starts with a bang as we get glimpses of Sabrina's story, just enough to intrigue and set the tone for what's to come as she starts the search for herself in more ways than one.  As she finds Alex, we see him step outside his normal "role" and comfort zone to do what needs to be done to protect and help the woman he quickly is coming to love (it's always amazing how quickly that happens).  While the end result is never really in doubt, Ms. Camp makes the getting there interesting and not always predictable.  An enjoyable way to spend the afternoon, I'm anxious not only to read the next in the series, but the previous as well.  The Mad Morelands are wholly entertaining. (Thanks to NetGalley for the chance to review this!)

Review: Wallflower Most Wanted (Manda Collins)

From Goodreads: THE PICTURE OF ROMANCE
A dedicated painter, Miss Sophia Hastings is far more concerned with finding the right slant of light than in finding Mr. Right. But when an overhead conversation hints at danger for another local artist, Sophia is determined to get involved. Even it means accepting help from an impossibly good-looking vicar who insists on joining her investigation—and threatens to capture her heart…

Reverend Lord Benedick Lisle knows that Sophia is no damsel in distress. But he won’t allow her to venture into peril alone, either. . .especially since he finds Sophia’s curious, free-spirited nature so alluring. But protecting her from harm is becoming more difficult than the vicar could have expected as he and Sophia confront their fiery mutual passion. Who could have known that the art of love would prove so irresistible?

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My Thoughts:  I had only vague recollections of the first in this series and realized I had not read the second.  Despite that, I found that I thoroughly enjoyed the third book in this series, full of smart (very smart) heroines and of course, the men who love them.  There are elements of mystery in each book in the series, and with each addition we learn a bit more about the benefactress of the four heiresses.  The mystery is always key to the romance within, but I also value reading about the struggles of being a woman in this period that had to justify talents and knowledge and abilities beyond the norm.  While not to the same extreme today, many parallels can be drawn between then and now when it comes to how women and knowledge and expertise are viewed and judged.  A fun, quick read that may also get you thinking about bigger issues, I recommend the series overall (I went back and read book two after this and look forward to the next!). Advance copy obtained through NetGalley - thank you!

Review: The Duke (Katharine Ashe)

From Goodreads: Katharine Ashe continues her lush and sensual Devil’s Duke series with a sweeping story of unbreakable love

Six years ago, when Lady Amarantha Vale was an innocent in a foreign land and Gabriel Hume was a young naval officer, they met . . . and played with fire.

Now Gabriel is the dark lord known to society as the Devil’s Duke, a notorious recluse hidden away in a castle in the Highlands. Only Amarantha knows the truth about him, and she won’t be intimidated. He is the one man who can give her the answers she needs.

But Gabriel cannot let her learn his darkest secret. So begins a game of wit and desire that proves seduction is more satisfying—and much more wicked—the second time around…

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My Thoughts: I've found this series by Ms. Ashe to be unique and interesting with strong characters and good story lines.  The Devil's Duke, the mysterious person we see in the previous books in the series, get his turn here.  We've gotten the idea going into it that he's not what rumors would have him to be, and here we get the full story.  We see a much different side of our Duke here and learn how and why he became what he is now.  The same is true of our heroine, Amarantha.  More than what she appears to be, you see her internal strength and determination and independence start to shine as they work towards their happy-ever-after.  The interesting cast of characters helps throw a few twists and turns into the story, and in the end we find a story of lovers reunited, looking at people beyond what you see on the surface, sacrifice for others, justice served, and two people finding themselves before they could find another.  

I need to go back and re-read the previous books in the series now, especially with the context this one provides.  I think it's a story one could enjoy independent of the other books, but having the background may help bring out some nuances and a better understanding of the story and the people.

(Advance copy provided by publisher)
 

Review: The Texan Duke (Karen Ranney)

spins the tale of a reluctant duke who must choose between his life in America—and the Scottish woman he’s destined to love…From Goodreads: New York Times bestselling author Karen Ranney’s third book in her Duke series

As the ward to the late Duke of Lothian, Elsbeth Carew resides at the ancestral estate of Bealadair. Fiercely attached to the manor, she loves it more than anyone else. When Connor McCraight—the new Duke of Lothian—arrives, Elsbeth does not quite know what to make of the American who has inherited the title but has never even set foot on Scottish soil. The tall, ruggedly handsome Texan sweeps through Bealadair with an air of authority Elsbeth has never encountered.

Connor has no intention of making Scotland his home and hopes to sell the estate as soon as possible. But his plan is jeopardized when he meets Elsbeth. A sweet, gray-eyed beauty, she tempts him in ways no other woman has. As word spreads of Connor’s intention to sell Bealadair, his life is threatened—and the only woman who can save him may be the one he has hopelessly lost his heart to.

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My Thoughts: Not too far into this story of the unexpected and unwilling American heir to a title, I started to make assumptions about the future of the story, the characters, and the inevitable resolution of the angst.  I sort of worked my way through the book in a few sittings, and the more I read, the more I realized that I perhaps I DIDN'T in fact know where all this was going and "know" the characters as well as I thought I did.

 Connor, our unwilling Duke from Texas, has no plans to stay in Scotland any longer than it takes to sell the land and settle the estate.  Of course, it's never that simple, and the story follow his path to understanding that there's some positives in his inheritance and new role.  Elsbeth is the former Duke's ward now trying to find her place in a world where she no longer feels part of the family.  There's a lot of family dynamics and drama involved, and in the end the resolution isn't what I expected from this theme.  Some danger, some drama, and some unexpected character development made this a much more enjoyable read in the end than I expected at the start.

(advanced copy obtained from publisher)

Review: It's Hard Out Here For A Duke (Maya Rodale)

From Goodreads: In the fourth novel of Maya Rodale’s tantalizing series, a newly minted duke spends one night with his perfect woman...but can he win her for a lifetime

Some Mistakes…

When American-born James Cavendish arrives in London tomorrow, he’ll become the Duke of Durham. Some might be ecstatic at the opportunity. Not James. He’s a simple man, fond of simple pleasures. And right now, nothing could be more pleasurable than spending his last night of freedom with a beautiful stranger.

Are Far Too Good…

One wild night, Meredith Green, companion to the dowager Duchess of Durham, said yes to a man she thought she’d never see again. Suddenly, they’re living under the same roof, where Meredith is expected to teach James how to be a duke—while trying not to surrender to temptation a second time.

To Be Forgotten

For a duke and a commoner, marriage would be pure scandal. Yet nothing has ever felt as right as having Meredith in his arms…and in his bed. Soon he must choose—between a duty he never desired, and a woman he longs for, body and soul…


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My Thoughts: I started this book one night when I couldn't sleep...and that was a huge mistake as it turns out I also could not put the book down.  This has been a fun series, and I've been waiting for this final book to turn to the story of James and Meredith.  You catch glimpses of potential story of these two characters in other books, but the focus on them in this story was much more enjoyable and emotional than I expected.

James is the unplanned Duke, and the previous books focused on his sisters and their trials and tribulations meshing with British society.  This book in particular though really brought out the emotions of this situation...the love and frustration between the family members, their struggles, sense of duty to each other and the situation, and just a well done story of the pain that love sometimes puts a person through.

It's a romance novel and you now there isn't really any option other than a HEA in the end.  This one though, I found myself wondering if the happy ever after I envisioned was going to be the end result.  I found myself actually crying at points in this book, not a normal situation for when I read this genre. 

All in all, I'd say Ms. Rodale is quickly moving up the list of authors I will seek out.  From start to finish I was hooked in the story, in the emotions and the characters.
 

Review: The Trouble With the Twelfth Grave (Darynda Jones)

From Goodreads: Grim Reaper Charley Davidson is back in the twelfth installment of Darynda Jones’ New York Times bestselling paranormal series.

Ever since Reyes escaped from a hell dimension in which Charley accidently trapped him, the son of Satan has been brimstone-bent on destroying the world his heavenly Brother created. His volatile tendencies have put Charley in a bit of a pickle. But that’s not the only briny vegetable on her plate. While trying to domesticate the feral being that used to be her husband, she also has to deal with her everyday life of annoying all manner of beings—some corporeal, some not so much—as she struggles to right the wrongs of society. Only this time she’s not uncovering a murder. This time she’s covering one up.

Add to that her new occupation of keeping a startup PI venture—the indomitable mystery-solving team of Amber Kowalski and Quentin Rutherford—out of trouble and dealing with the Vatican’s inquiries into her beloved daughter, and Charley is on the brink of throwing in the towel and becoming a professional shopper. Or possibly a live mannequin. But when someone starts attacking humans who are sensitive to the supernatural world, Charley knows it’s time to let loose her razor sharp claws. Then again, her number one suspect is the dark entity she’s loved for centuries. So the question becomes, can she tame the unruly beast before it destroys everything she’s worked so hard to protect?

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My Thoughts: To be honest, I'm probably going to read everything that comes out in this series because our heroine makes me laugh.  She's snarky, she's a coffee addict, and she'd do anything for her best friend...what's not to like?!  That being said, while I've enjoyed the series, I wasn't sure where it was going and thought maybe it was losing a bit of its punch after 11 books.  I was hitting the dreaded series fatigue, and while I was still a fan, I wasn't sure the eagerness to dive into the next book was quite the same.  I take all those thoughts back after reading book 12. Wow. Hit me in the emotions in ways I didn't expect, and definitely sets the series up for some new and interesting directions.  I don't think there's ever a true doubt about where Reyes falls in terms of good vs evil in this book, but the story itself, the buildup, it all comes together to keep you wondering and eventually in tears and then angry that you have to wait for the next book to come out to find out what the heck happens next.  Well worth picking up, even if you found yourself in a bit of series fatigue up to this point.  

(advanced copy obtained through Edelweiss)