Book Review: One for the Rogue (Studies in Scandal) by Manda Collins

One for the Rogue is the fourth book in the Studies in Scandal series by Manda Collins. I have not read the previous books, and think that the romance stands well on its own. However, I think that those that read the series in order will enjoy it more than newcomers because of the knowledge of the characters, setting, and circumstances. 

Geologist Gemma Hastings has no interest in pursuing romance, and no patience for Lord Cameron Lisle- an esteemed fossil hunter who has a way of always honing in on her territory. But when a shocking attack puts Gemma in very real danger, she may have to accept Lisle’s offers of protection. Even if that means entering into a dangerous flirtation. Lisle was once amused by Gemma’s dedication to her work. But now that he understands how much he’s underestimated her—a woman whose beauty is matched only by her genius—Lisle is desperate to prove his respect and prove himself worthy of her. But is he too late? A bitter rival, desperate to steal Gemma’s scientific findings, is still at-large. Can Lisle help uncover the culprit and keep her safe—forever, in his loving arms?

One for the Rogue is aq fast, fun romance with a dash of enemies turn lover in the mix. Gemma and Cameron have been at odds since the first met. However, Cam is a better man than he might have appeared and is much more respectful towards the intelligence and accomplishments of the women around him than his peers. Unfortunately, he is only made aware of how far he has to go in this vein when he hears his colleagues belittle Gemma and other women he respects. Gemma is proud, and wants her work and discoveries to get the credit they deserve, which is near impossible in her field and time. When greed and conspiracy puts everything at risk Can and Gemma end up working together, and becoming friends.  I loved watching the two dance around each other, respect, friendship, and attracting making things both easier and more difficult as they try to solve the mystery of murder and theft. I like that both characters have faults, and need to work through them. I really enjoyed watching them work together, and get frustrated with each other and the secondary characters that offered either frustrating interruptions or substantial dangers. There was a nice balance of humor and suspense, with a nice dash of  extremely intelligent characters. 

One for the Rogue is a fun and engaging read that has me curious about the previous books in the series. I just might go back and start the series from the start, when I find the time.

Book Review: An Affair with a Spare (Survivors) by Shana Galen

An Affair with a Spare is the third book in the Survivors series by Shana Galen. I think each book in this series can stand up well as a stand alone, but of course are more fun to read as a series.

Rafe Beaumont, fifth son of an earl, uses his irresistible charm with the ladies to glean dangerous war secrets. Now he's putting those skills to the ultimate test: capturing an elusive assassin by seducing his daughter. The problem? She's entirely immune to Rafe's flattery. Never before has Collette Fortier met a man as attractive as Rafe. But her father's life is at stake, and succumbing to Rafe would be disastrous. But when Rafe turns the tables on her, offering support and friendship instead of a fleeting affair, Collette finds herself tempted in ways she never could have imagined.

An Affair with a Spare is a historical romance with some fun characters. I really liked Collette's character, she is trying the best she can to follow the instructions she has while flying under the radar. She does not like crowds or being the center of attention- which I completely empathize with. Rafe is used to running from the ladies- sometimes quite literally. I cannot say that I had much sympathy for him, but enjoyed his frustration and fascination when Colette does not act like all the women (aside from family of course) that he knows. The combination of the two personalities and their secret purposes as they forge a friendship was highly entertaining, and I liked that emotional barriers as well as dangerous secrets were dealt with along the way. I will admit to being annoyed with Rafe on occasion, but overall found the characters and their story to be entertaining and engaging.

An Affair with a Spare is just what I expected from the author and the series, and I think that fans of either will want to pick this one up and will enjoy the read.

Book Review: Tempting The Laird (Highland Grooms) by Julia London

Tempting The Laird is the fifth book in the Highland Grooms series by Julia London. I felt like I might have read other books in the series, and I know I have read more from this author, but I cannot find any related reviews in my archives.

Catriona Mackenzie’s reputation as unruly precedes her everywhere she goes. Her beloved late aunt Zelda taught Cat to live out loud and speak her mind, and that’s exactly what she does when Zelda’s legacy, a refuge for women in need, comes under fire. When her quest puts her in the path of the disturbingly mysterious Hamlin Graham, Duke of Montrose, Cat is soon caught up in the provocative rumors surrounding the dark duke. Shrouded in secrets, a hostage of lies, Hamlin must endure the fear and suspicion of those who believe he is a murderer. The sudden disappearance of his wife and the truth he keeps silent are a risk to his chances at earning a coveted parliamentary seat. But he’s kept his affairs tightly held until a woman with sparkling eyes and brazen determination appears unexpectedly in his life. Deadly allegations might be his downfall, but his unleashed passion could be the duke’s ultimate undoing.

Tempting The Laird is an engaging read, and I enjoyed Catriona's character (and her family) more than anything else from the book. Cat is in her thirties and while her family loves her, they want jher to find the love and life they have all found. Cat is certain that is not to be, so focuses on helping the women and children in her care after her aunt passes away. Loving family also being a meddling family, Cat is tossed into an unwanted adventure. I love that even when she should, she does not care what other people say or think about her. She will do what she considered best and ignore the looks and comments. Hamlin has often tried to do the same, but trying to win a seat in parliament makes him a little more cautious. I thought it had a nice hint of Gothic romance, which resolved itself nicely. The conclusion made me very happy, and I liked that  Cat's independence and honest lasted until the very end, rather than her caving to someone else's demands, which often happens.  I I loved the pair's banter and the secondary character's effect on their relationship.  I have to admit that I read another book fairly recently with several similar secondary characters, which honestly confused me for a bit and sent me down the rabbit hole trying to figure out if the stories are connected and whatnot- but I could find no reason for it.

Tempting The Laird is at well done historical romance, it has well done characters and an entertaining plot. I have to admit that I was so distracted by the secondary character similarities distracted me from the story and led to my mind wandering. I think if I had not read the other book (which I actually highly enjoyed) I might have liked this one more. 

Book Review: Laird of the Black Isle (The MacGregors: Highland Heirs) by Paula Quinn

Laird of the Black Isle is the seventh book in The MacGregors: Highland Heirs series by Paula Quinn. I think I have read some of the other books in this series, but not all of them. I think having read the series will help with some character information, each book can largely stand on their own and be enjoyed in their own right. 

Lachlan MacKenzie has nothing left to lose since his wife and daughter were killed. But when a shadowy figure reveals his little girl might still be alive, Lachlan will do whatever it takes to find her, even abduct a lass from the MacGregor clan for an exchange. But the laird of the Black Isle won't let anything interfere with his mission, not even his beautiful, stubborn captive. All Mailie MacGregor wants is to return home to her family. And the Highland beast who captured her can go to the devil. Her plan: to thwart him at any cost and win her freedom. But she never expected to be so drawn to the fierce warrior and the desire in his eyes. 

Laird of the Black Isle is a nice historical novel about redemption for someone that has faced war, done and seen horrible things, and faced terrible losses. Lachlan has nothing to lose, is willing to go against honor to kidnap an innocent woman for the slim hope of finding his daughter. Mallie is smart, kind, and independent with plenty of strong and honorable men in her family so she has high expectations. Despite being kidnapped, she softens towards Lachlan as she learns more about him, and he grows and softens as she forces him to face his losses and how his past has changed him. I enjoyed both characters, as well as the secondary characters that cropped up in the village and through Mallie's family. I like that there was no instant love, but rather a slow getting to know and understand each other. I also liked the extra dash of danger, but thought that could have come about a little sooner, I just kept expecting the man behind all the bad things in the story to pop around the corner at any moment, and I felt like it took forever for it to finally happen. I will admit that I was glad to get such a complete happy ending. 

Laird of the Black Isle is a historical romance with a good dash of danger and plenty of sweetness. I liked the balance, and think that fans of the genre, and this author in particular, will enjoy the read.

Book Review: Highland Conquest (Sons of Gregor McLeod) by Alyson McLayne

Highland Conquest is the second book in the Sons of Gregor McLeod series by Alyson McLayne. I did not read the first book in the series, but the important happenings of the first book are well explained, and newcomers can easily enjoy the read without feeling the loss- although they might want to go back and read it after some of the female characters that feature in that story are described. 

Laird Lachlan MacKay never planned on leading his clan, but when his older brother was murdered, he was left with no choice. His vow to avenge his brother has led him to the MacPherson clan—and their bewitching healer, Amber. Amber MacPherson is desperate. Dressed as a boy to escape her clan's treacherous leader, she runs right into Lachlan—who orders her detained. At first she causes him nothing but frustration, especially when she blackmails him into helping her clan. But when she's threatened by the same man who murdered his brother, Lachlan will do whatever it takes to keep her safe—and by his side. 

Highland Conquest captured my attention from the start, and kept it through the entire read. I loved the unconventional meeting between Lachlan and Amber, and the slow growth of the relationship between the pair. Neither are looking for love, or plans to marry.  I like how much they have in common, and the way they argue and spar their way through the book. Amber is strong and smart, and sometimes a little too perfect and beloved by her clan. I understand how that kind of adoration came to be, but it also felt a little at odds with the way some moments of the story played out. I like that Amber is independent and willing to do anything to protect or heal others. Lachlan is well written as well, and I enjoyed his patient and resilient pursuit of Amber. I also like that he was not perfect, he was impatient in his pursuit of his brother's killer, and did not always say or do the perfect thing. However, this just made him a more real and complex character. The secondary characters were interesting and just as well constructed as the main players. The complexity of the search for the bad guy, and the effort he puts into death, destruction, and depravity is quite stunning. So much more than I expected, and watching it all play out had me on the edge of my sit. I will admit that I spent most of the last moments of the book waiting for the last shoe to drop, and was still surprised with some of the turns the final showdown took. I enjoyed the ride as the pair found their happy ever after, and think that the small details that were left unanswered will be handled as the series continues.

Highland Conquest is a heart wrenching and warming romance with a slow burn. I think the complex, independent characters really made the read, and I just might need to further explore the series.

Book Review: No Earls Allowed (The Survivors) by Shana Galen

No Earls Allowed is the second book in The Survivors series by Shana Galen. While I have read other books by the author, I had not read the first book in this series. However, I feel like I was fully able to enjoy the read without having read the first, although there are mentions of the other men that are the heroes of the series, so those reading in order might get a little more out of the read than those of us coming in cold. 

Lady Juliana, daughter of the Earl of St. Maur, needs all the help she can get. She's running a ramshackle orphanage, London's worst slumlord has illicit designs on her, and her father has suddenly become determined to marry her off. Enter Major Neil Wraxall, bastard son of the Marquess of Kensington, sent to assist Lady Juliana in any way he can. Lucky for her, he's handy with repairs, knows how to keep her and the orphans safe, and is a natural leader of men. Unfortunately for both of them, the scandal that ensues from their mutual attraction is going to lead them a merry dance.

No Earls Allowed captured my attention immediately, with a charitable heroine dealing with her grief by throwing herself into the care of orphans. I liked Juliana, her stubbornness and pride sometime getting her into trouble but her heart and humor are what make her such a great character to read. Neil has survived the war, but not unscathed. As the bastard son of a nobleman he has limited acceptance in society, despite his status as war hero. I like that neither care much about convention, or what society has to say about them, at least for the most part. I loved watching Neil's soft side revealed, and his honor and need protect takes over as he gets to know Juliana and the boys. The twists and turns that are involved in protecting Juliana and the orphanage were very well done, and occasionally had me holding my breathe. I was entertained, engaged, and connected with both the story and the characters. The characterization of the boys Julie cares for was also extremely well done, capturing the variety of needs and personalities that would be most likely in the situation- but they still felt real rather than standard.  I will admit, there were moments when I was not happy with the choices or words of our couple, but those moments ramped up the tension and moved forward the story, so they were well used. This story was highly entertaining, now I just need to as the first book, and the next one, to my TBR pile. 

No Earls Allowed is a heart warming historical romance with plenty of danger in intrigue. I enjoyed the characters, the unique set up, and the book as a whole. I was reminded of how much I enjoy this authors work, and why I need to read more from them. 

Book Review: The Rogue is Back in Town (Wayward Wallflowers) by Anna Bennett

The Rogue is Back in Town is the third book in the Wayward Wallflowers series by Anna Bennett. While I have not read the earlier books in the series, I still understood the read. There are some references that will make more sense to those that have been following the series, but newcomers will catch on. 

Equal parts scoundrel and seducer, he’s returned to London determined to mend the rift with his older brother. All Sam must do is take possession of a tumbledown town house. A seemingly simple task, except the house is occupied—by an infuriating, whip-smart beauty who refuses to do his bidding. Miss Juliette Lacey’s wallflower days are over. She has a plan to turn her eccentric family into the toast of the ton—but the devilishly handsome rake trying to oust them from their home thwarts her at every turn. How can one man be so vexing and make her simmer with desire? As her attraction to Sam deepens, Julie’s problems grow—she may have, once upon a time, secretly shared a kiss with his honorable older brother. Suddenly, Julie’s caught between a rogue and a marquess, between passion and respectability. Torn between two brothers, what’s a girl to do?

The Rogue is Back in Town is a historical romance with truly manipulative and despicable bad guy.  Juliette is intelligent and independent, but more naive than she can admit. I liked her spunk when dealing with the situations she finds herself in, and in her conversations. However, I find her decision making to be frustrating and occasionally rage inducing. Sam is a good guy, despite his reputation as a rake and a rogue. He has done more than his fair share of gambling, carousing, and more- but he is honest about his failings and owns his mistakes. I really liked his character, aside from the fact that he is unwilling to lay blame on the one person that really deserves it through most of the book- and is ready to give up and in way too easily. I liked the couple's banter, and the way they each interact with Julie's uncle. There is so much about these characters to enjoy that I had trouble dealing with the cause of all the conflict and how completely irredeemable he was through the entire book. The fact that his actions are likely to have been done by some in reality- made it no easier to bear, since he faced no consequence.  It left me more than a little frustrated and unsatisfied with the story

The Rogue is Back in Town is a book with entertaining characters and conflict, but a bad guy that had me wanting to hurl the book across the room. Getting such an emotional response is good writing, but the bitter aftertaste does not leave me looking for more.

Book Review: It's All About the Duke (The Rakes of St. James) by Amelia Grey

It's All About the Duke is the third book in The Rakes of St. James series by Amelia Grey. I have not read the previous books in the series, but I could still fully enjoy the read. There are some references that will make more sense to those that have been following the series, but newcomers will catch on. 

Nearing thirty, the Duke of Rathburne is finally ready to make amends for the wager that caused him and his best friends such scandal―but taking on a ward who needs a husband is a feat he’s not sure he can manage. The last he saw of Miss Marlena Fast, she was a spirited little ruffian, not the sort of bride most bachelors on the marriage mart sought. But one glance at the lovely lady she has become is enough to convince him otherwise. Orphaned young and shuffled from family to family, Marlena counts on her fierce independence and quick wits to keep herself content. Being the responsibility of a notoriously wicked duke who upended so many lives is an unexpected challenge when she realizes he arouses her decidedly feminine desires. Marlena must be careful. She has her own scandalous secret to protect. If he finds out, will it shatter her chances of a happily-ever-after with the notorious rake?

It's All About the Duke was a mixed bag for me. I liked Marlena's character in some ways, she is independent and resourceful, but naive and foolish. I liked her spunk and willingness to stand up for herself, but sometimes her willingness to overlook some people's faults and failings, but unwillingness to think beyond them for others was a little bothersome- but also completely human and believable. Rath feels bad about how the actions his group made years ago has effected others, but never really looked too deeply to see past the surface to see if they had any lingering negative affects on those involved. I liked the banter between Rath and Marlena, but found them a bit quick and easy with the physical side of the relationship, and considering all the secrets and hard feelings floating around I found it a little off putting. I found some of the reactions of each to alternate between over the top, and dismissive depending on the moment. I still enjoyed the read, but I was not invested in the characters or action- rather felt like I was eavesdropping or watching someone's personal drama unfold in public, with all the dramatic flare of someone looking for attention rather than heartfelt emotion. I usually enjoy this author's work more, and wonder if I was just not in the mood for this style of romance when I picked it up. 

It's All About the Duke is a historical romance with plenty of drama and some quirky characters. I really enjoyed some of the dialogue and interactions, but it fell short of my expectations.

Book Review: Betting the Scot (The Highlanders of Balforss) by Jennifer Trethewey

Betting the Scot is the second book in The Highlanders of Balforss series by Jennifer Trethewey. I did read and enjoy the first book in this series, Tying the Scot, but think that each book can be enjoyed on its own. 

Declan Sinclair is a Highlander who believes his dreams never lie. When he spots Caya at a public house, he knows instantly she is the woman in his dreams—his future wife. Though her brother had promised never to gamble again, he engages Declan in a card game—and the prize is the lovely Caya.  Caya Pendarvis has no time for childish things like dreams or fairy-tales or love. She’s the sacrificial lamb on her way to the far north of Scotland to wed a wealthy merchant in exchange for settling her brother’s gambling debts.  Winning at cards is one of the many things Declan Sinclair does well. Unfortunately, the ability to court a woman—a talent he lacks—is the only skill he desperately needs to win Caya’s heart.

Betting the Scot is a multi layered romance that catches the attention, and keeps it through out the entire read. I liked the set up with Caya, and her brother. I also like that while Declan is far from poor, neither Declan or Caya are gentry, which is a nice change of pace in historical romance. So often the main players are Dukes, or other lords and ladies, so while Declan is related to the head of his clan he is not exactly royalty. I like that Declan is certain Caya is to be his wife, but is so lost and uncertain about how to go about making it happen. Caya is at a loss after her brother sells her, them gambles her away. She still loves him, and wants to help him, but knows that he has greed and weaknesses that are dangerous. I enjoyed getting Declan's side of the story for most of the book, and liked his honor and kindness, that is not always obvious to those around him. I will admit that I was annoyed with Caya for trusting her brother after all he had done, and for not fully confiding in Declan.I though Declan was a complex and sympathetic character, and I was rooting for him through the entire book. I found Caya to be a little less likable, she often annoyed me in her own way, but I never hated her. I think if she had trusted Declan more, and her brother less, I would have enjoyed the book even more. The danger was well done, and the drama crafted with a satisfying conclusion. I loved getting to see Peter in action again, after loving his character in the previous book, although those that did not already know him will still find this young secondary characters to be fabulous. I also liked getting a hint as to who might be next while not leaving so many open questions that I was frustrated. 

Betting the Scot is a well written historical romance with plenty of twists and turns. I enjoyed the characters and their depth, and my only complaint is that sometimes I feel like there might be one too many twists that could be replaced with conversation to ease communication issues rather than life or death danger turning the tide.

Book Review: A Scot's Surrender (Townsend Novel) by Lily Maxton

A Scot's Surrender is the third book in the Townsend series of historical romances by Lily Maxton. While this is the third book in a series, but it works as a stand alone with only a few mentions of incidents and characters from previous book. It is also the only book in the series (thus far at least) that is a male/male romance. I have not read anything else by the author, but I think I will be changing that soon.

When his brother leaves him in charge of Llynmore Castle, Robert Townsend is determined to make everything go smoothly. What does it matter if he's inexplicably drawn to Ian Cameron, the estate’s stoic steward? Robert is sure he can ignore the way the Highlander's apparent dislike of him gets under his skin. They'll muddle along just fine so long as they avoid one another. An excellent plan…until a fire forces Ian into the castle—and Robert's personal space. Ian Cameron has worked for everything he owns, unlike spoiled Robert Townsend. And he may not have friends, but he has the Highlands and the stars, and what more could he really need? But when a guest's stolen possession appears in his room, he doesn't have much choice but to admit to the handsome and aggravatingly charming Townsend brother that he needs help. To solve this mystery, they'll have to put aside their differences. And as Ian learns more about Robert, he'll have to guard his heart or it may be the next thing stolen.

A Scot's Surrender is a slow burn, that starts as almost and enemy to lover romance. Robert and Ian are under the same roof due to crisis outside their control. They each have assumptions about each other, and in general avoid each other because attraction is not always a good thing. Robert, acting as master of the house until his brother returns, just wants everything to go smoothly as he works on writing his second book. He wants to make his family proud. Ian is a working man and is itching to get back to his work, and has no time or respect for the idle rich. When other visitors are end up sharing the home as well, thanks to more crisis, things begin getting out of control. I understand why our pair were tiptoeing around each other, in the era of the story homosexuality could get you killed, so acting on an attraction is a dangerous business. I liked the way the pair slowly learned about each other and became reluctant friends before even admitting fully to themselves about the shared attraction. I liked the funny moments, and the sweet moments as they came to know each other.  Most of all, I just like the characters and how much they focused on doing the right thing and protecting others rather than themselves, even when it did not seem like it on the surface. The slow steps they took towards finding their happy ending make the conclusion even more heart warming and fulfilling. 

A Scot's Surrender is a historical romance that I am glad not to have missed. I enjoyed the story, but the characters most of all. I am now going to have to go back and get a look at the previous (and future) books by the author.

Book Review: My Lady Captor by Hannah Howell

My Lady Captor by Hannah Howell is a historical novel that is currently being reprinted, but was originally published in 1996. Lady Sorcha Hay is devastated to learn that English soldiers are holding her young brother captive. Penniless, the only way she can pay for his freedom is by taking a hostage for ransom herself. Her captive--a wounded knight plucked from the battlefield--is furious to be imprisoned by a woman. But nothing will stop Sorcha from keeping Sir Ruari Kerr enslaved, even as the sight of his bronzed body sets her mind and body reeling.  With her dark mane and soft curves, Sorcha is everything Ruari has ever desired in a woman. As she tends to his wounds, Ruari fights the intense attraction that ignites at her very touch. But he can't afford to lose his heart to his tempting captor. For when he's finally rescued by his men, Sorcha will pay dearly for her treachery, and loving her could put both their lives in peril.

My Lady Captor is a fun historical romance with strong characters and the touch of the otherworldly that I expect from Howell. Sorcha and her family have a connection to ghosts, and occasionally get hints of what is to come. Unfortunately they also have very little money and few men left in their clan. When the search for Sorcha's wayward brother (and laird) instead offers up the knowledge that he is captive and will be ransomed she seizes on the opportunity to ransom the two wounded souls she finds on the battlefield in order to pay that ransom. I like that she is strong, resourceful, and willing to do what needs to be done for the good of all rather than focusing on what she wants. She is clever and quick to action, and shows up the men on many occasions. Ruari is strong, but heeds his pride and what he thinks he should far more than he ought. I like that while he falls in the trap of underestimating Sorcha and the women of her clan, he quickly comes to respect their quick wit and strength, even when it bests him. The added danger of a greedy English knight certainly made things interesting, but I was not sure it was completely necessary, and the resolution was a tad anticlimactic for me- although it did the job of forcing the action forward. I enjoyed the ride, but found it evident that it was an earlier work from the author, and noticed how much her style has evolved and grown.

My Lady Captor is exactly what I expect from Howell, but clearly one of her earlier works. The characters and story are engaging, but having read many of her books I can see how much her style and skill has grown over the years. This was a great read while trapped indoors due to bad weather. 

Book Review: The Right Kind of Rogue (Playful Brides) by Valerie Bowman

The Right Kind of Rogue is the eight book in the Playful Brides series by Valerie Bowman. I have not read the previous books, but while I could tell some characters carried over, it is not necessary to read these books are a series or in order. Although, I would think that those who do will greatly enjoy seeing past characters make appearances and have some prior knowledge to the featured characters which makes for a more engaging read.

Viscount Hart Highgate has decided to put his rakish ways behind him and finally get married. He may adore a good brandy or a high-speed carriage race, but he takes his duties as heir to the earldom seriously. Now all he has to do is find the right kind of woman to be his bride—ideally, one who’s also well-connected and well-funded and not like his scheming mother. Meg Timmons has loved Hart, the brother of her best friend, ever since she was an awkward, blushing schoolgirl. If only she had a large dowry—or anything to her name at all. Instead, she’s from a family that’s been locked in a bitter feud with Hart’s for years. And now she’s approaching her third London season, Meg’s chances with him are slim to none, but she has to try.

The Right Kind of Rogue might be deep into a series, and I can clearly see some of the interconnected characters that makes it clear, but it has not fallen into the traps that make it hard for newcomers to join in and pick up just about anywhere. There were a couple mentions of things that happened in previous books, but at no point was I left behind because of not having read the prior books. I loved Meg's character, while practical and pragmatic she is still a romantic and is hoping for her chance with Hart- even though she thinks her chances are slim to none. I like that she is shy on some levels, but willing to stand up for her friends and do everything she can to protect them and herself. I liked her honesty and openness, and Hart's desire to find someone just like her even when he had no idea what he wanted.  I enjoyed the slow realization on Hart's part, and that even when everything seemed to be falling apart and he behaves badly, he is still protecting those he cares about. I just enjoyed this read from beginning to end, and while there were a few occasions when pride and stubbornness made me want to kick a character, they still stayed consistent and highly entertaining. In fact, I liked the book so much that I just downloaded another book in the series to see if they are all as entertaining.

The Right Kind of Rogue is a fully engaging historical romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. I found the characters and the situations they find themselves in to be very well put together. My only disappointment is that it took me this long to find this series.

Book Review: A Duke in the Night (The Devils of Dover) by Kelly Bowen

A Duke in the Night is the first book in The Devils of Dover series by Kelly Bowen. August Faulkner is a man of many talents, not the least of which is enticing women into his bedchamber. He’s known—and reviled—for buying and selling companies, accumulating scads of money, and breaking hearts. It’s a reputation he wears like a badge of honor, and one he intends to keep. Clara Hayward, the headmistress of the Haverhall School for Young Ladies, on the other hand, is above reproach. Yet when she’s reunited with August, all she can think of is the way she felt in his arms as they danced a scandalous waltz ten long years ago. Even though her head knows that he is only back in her life to take over her family’s business, her heart can’t help but open to the very duke who could destroy it for good.

A Duke in the Night is a historical novel that takes a little more of a look at characters hat have or are currently struggling financially. August and his family have been completely destitute- and through his hard work and smart choices he has brought them back to being more than just surviving, he has what amounts to a business empire. Clara and her family are currently struggling. When they come together again, not exactly by chance, they rekindle an attraction that they have both been trying to ignore. Money, lies, and the expectations for women in general (and August's younger sister in particular) keep raising tempers and conflicts between the two. Add in a suitor that has less that noble intentions and lots of realizations on August's part and it is a book that offers romance and some intrigue along with equality. I live that while August seems so ruthless and composed, he really is a soft touch that worries about those that cannot care for themselves or have fallen on hard times. It is his desire to help and protect that actually fuels his drive. I loved his character's duality and heart. Clara is smart and determined, and very much apologetically herself. There was a good bit of humor and fun in the story and I caught myself giggling at a few of the shenanigans and misunderstandings between characters. I liked her and her siblings, and the way they view the world. I am hoping that the siblings of both Hope and August are the stars of the next books in the series, because I liked them as much as the main players. I have not seen a historical romance with this amount of a push for equality and awareness before, at least not that I remember. While it was done well, I do think that it occasionally came close to the line that would have felt more preachy than entertaining.

A Duke in the Night is a solid historical romance with a social messages interwoven in the story. There is humor and a good character building. I was an entertaining read, but I will admit to while loving the concept and characters I had a hard time getting fully engaged in the read. 

Book Review: What a Highlander's Got to Do (Untamed Highlander) by Sabrina York

What a Highlander's Got to Do is the fifth book in the Untamed Highlander series by Sabrina York. Each book in the series has some character carry over, but they can all be read as stand alones. 

Isobel Dounreay Lochlannach is a fierce and independent Scots lass. She has no intention to marry—to submit to a man—especially not an Englishman. But when she meets a devilish stable lad on the way to London, she can’t help but sneak a kiss with the handsome stranger, sure to never see him again. Nick Wyeth is not a stable lad. He’s Viscount Stirling, and heir to one of the most powerful dukes in the realm. If their indiscretion is discovered, Isobel will be forced to marry him, to succumb to a fate she has always spurned. Nick wants nothing but to call this wild Scottish lass his own, and is determined to show her how an English Viscount can make her swoon, and be his forever.

What a Highlander's Got to Do is a historical romance with many twists and turns. We have the headstrong, capable Isobel on her way to London for a season she does not want. I like that while she is resilient and strong she is also scared of losing herself and does not want to become the wife of someone who would cage or own her. Nick makes a mistake in no clearing up a case of mistaken identity in the beginning, but that is only the start of the problems for a viscount that had no interest in marriage before running into Isobel and their moments together. I enjoyed the family and friend connections, and the humor and honest discussions they have with Nick and Isobel in turn, trying to help them find their path. I also like that for the most part, Isobel and Nick are as honest with each other as they are with themselves. I am a big fan of romantic couples actually talking things out rather than skating over the issues that had been between them earlier or ignoring them completely. The danger element added some spark to the story, and certainly added some excitement. It was well done, and good fun and wrapped up quickly, but I wonder if it was needed.I also liked that the external conflicts were fairly easy to over come, but the inner doubts and struggles were the heart of the barriers between Isobel and Nick. Their communication and connection was beautifully done. As a whole, I greatly enjoyed the read for the characters, their interaction, and the humor I found in those interactions.

What a Highlander's Got to Do is a wonderful historical romance from York, although I have come to expect nothing less. If you are a fan, then you know you will already be giving this book a go. If you are not a fan yet, but love a good historical with a touch of a brogue, then give the author a try.