Book Review: Nonverbal (Love Beyond Words) by Raina Ash

Nonverbal (Love Beyond Words) by Raina Ash is a contemporary romance. Paige—a bubbly, autistic woman obsessed with EDM—is lost when it comes to finding a man to connect with. But when she moves in with her best friend's brother, the chemistry is instant. Is there room for love in her fight for independence? Paige yearns for one thing: release. But physical barriers make that wish seem impossible. Thanks to a shattered home life, she also doesn't know how to trust. Especially those she loves. Paige isn't expecting a spark with her bestie's brother, Brody. He's gigantic, protective, and makes her feel something she hasn't felt in a long time: safe. Brody wants to keep his relationship with Paige platonic, but he can't get the troubled woman out of his mind. Maybe it's the way she makes him question his entire stance on relationships. But his sister, Amber, warns him to stay away. He needs to listen. For everyone's sake. As Paige struggles to navigate her tumultuous feelings and legal troubles, words fail her. How can she understand her heart when her past left her damaged? And what if revealing the truth means losing Brody forever?

Nonverbal gives readers a good look at how one nonverbal, autistic woman feels and what she has been through. Her search for a life, and an orgasm, is the foundation of the book. I loved the relationship with Brody, and how organically it is formed. I also love that the book contained honest looks at how addiction and trauma effects people, and how being willing and ready for change is just as important of every other aspect of growth. I felt like Paige, Brody, and Ashley all grew a great deal in this story, and that even secondary characters that we only saw glimpses of are on their own journeys- not just scenery for this one story. There is talk about abuse and trauma, and a great deal of honesty thoughts and conversation about sex. If any of these things are triggers for you, or something you just do not want to read about, then I would skip the read. However, I thought all of the hard topic included in the book are tacked with honesty and respect, which I greatly appreciated. 

Nonverbal is a engaging and emotional read.

Early Book Review: Shadow Fallen (Dream-Hunter) by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Shadow Fallen is the newest addition to the Dream-Hunter series by Sherrilyn Kenyon. It is currently scheduled for release on April 12 2022. The book does have cameos from characters from previous books from the author and her various series, however this can be read on its own as well.

For centuries, Ariel has fought the forces of evil. Her task was to protect the souls of innocent mortals when they die. Captured by a powerful sorceress, she is transformed into a human who has no memory of her real life or calling. And is plunked into the middle of the Norman invasion of England. Cursed the moment he was born with a "demonic deformity," Valteri wants nothing of this earth except to depart it and will do his duty to his king until then. When a strange noblewoman is brought before him, Valteri realizes he has met her before…in his dreams. When others come for her, bringing with them preternatural predators, he is faced with a destiny he had no idea was waiting. One he wants no part of. The truth is that Valteri isn’t just a knight of William the Conqueror. He is the son of one of the deadliest powers in existence, and if he doesn’t restore Ariel to her place, she is not the only one who will be in peril. The world itself hangs in the balance, and he is the necessary key to hold back the powers of evil. But only if he can find a way to work with the woman who stands for everything in the universe he hates.

Shadow Fallen is a return to the worlds if gods, betrayal, and love created by the author. I have been a fan for years and was glad to get a new book in my hands. The book held true to the things I expect- love that overcomes betrayal and even death. There are characters that have been tormented and some who still are, there are big conflicts and feelings and strange familial ties that complicate things. There are good souls struggling to hold true to their values despite everything around them and how others treat them, and others that give into the despair and hatred that it can cause. I loved being back in the thick of it and watching Val and Ariel find their way to each other and a future. I will admit that I did not get as lost in this story as I normally do. I am not sure if it was the stress and family that were circling around as I tried to read the book, or my mood at the time, but I just did not get as heavily involved as I normally do. The characters and conflicts were just as intense as I expected, the drama and stakes high and involved. I enjoyed getting to see some characters I knew from other books play their part, and interact with those I was just getting to know. The only issue I had with the read that I could actually identify could be fixed before final printing. I found that in the galley there were moments when the book changed point of view with no warning or break, but I doubt that will be an issue in the final version. 

Shadow Fallen holds to the love conquering trauma and death idea that threads through all of the author's work. It did not capture me quite as much as some of her earlier works, but it was still a good read and I am glad to have gotten my hands on it. 

Book Review: Whatever He Needs by Mia Kerick

Whatever He Needs by Mia Kerick is a contemporary romance. Trigger warning, Whatever He Needs includes instances of physical and emotional abuse, sexual assault, and kidnapping.

Heir to the McAllister Construction fortune, Liam is focused on maintaining the myth that he is exactly the son his father wants. When he falls for Dimmy, a heavily inked go-go dancer, he fears revealing the romance, certain it won't go over well with his upper-crust family—especially his father, who seems obsessed with building a family legacy. Dimmy’s father, Gregory, is bent on making Dimmy earn his keep by any means, no matter how unsavory. He puts his barely legal son to work dancing provocatively at the seedy bar he runs and finds Dimmy work on the side providing masseuse services—and more—to club clientele. Gregory has Dimmy twisted into believing he can do no better, and Dimmy does it all in hopes of a pat on the back from his dad. Though Liam is but a few years older, Dimmy sees him as a man who might take care of him as his callous father never has, and reluctantly lets his guard down. But Liam, though he’s falling hard and fast for Dimmy, still hides his blossoming relationship from his family. A crisis ensues when a clash between the two fathers’ business interests puts Dimmy at serious risk. When the right side of the tracks meets the oh-so-very wrong side, will Liam set his priorities straight in time to keep Dimmy from harm, or will fear shatter their lives?

Whatever He Needs is a tough read emotionally. Dimmy  is in a very though situation, and has never had it easy in the best of days. The abuse from his father and everything he goes through is hard to read, but his character is extremely well written. Liam has his own issues, and dos not handle everything as well as readers might hope- past and present. The relationship is a journey, and not always healthy, but I was fully engaged and invested as they each figured out their worth and how to move forward. There were moments of the book that reminded me how fully awful people can be and moments that pointed out that people can carry just as much kindness and grace- and those qualities are not dependent on circumstances. I loved the supportive secondary characters, and viscerally hated some of the characters that made life so hard. They were all well written, and invoked very strong responses from me. In fact, I plan on reading more from the author in hopes of catching some of the characters I loved one more time. 

Whatever He Needs is a hard be very worthwhile read. 

Book Review: Unperfect by Susie Tate

Unperfect by Susie Tate is a contemporary romance. I believe it is number four in the Beg Borrow, or Steal series, as there are some cameos from characters I recognize, but it is not labeled as such. Content warning, there is significant domestic violence content.

When Mia shows up for the interview at a well-known architecture firm, she only has 27p, a squashed loaf of bread and a jar of peanut butter to her name. She needs this job. Even if she is scared to death of the owner of the company. Max has made a name for himself as that grumpy northern architect off Dream Homes (the most popular house design programme in the UK).  It turned out that the whole gorgeous-but-rough-around-the-edges-Yorkshire-man vibe was just what the country was looking for – the episode had gone viral and Max was the new, extremely reluctant, pin-up of the building industry. But to Mia, huge, grumpy men weren’t sexy, they were simply terrifying. She knows from experience that even men of average size can be dangerous. If she wasn’t so desperate, she’d run. She’s used to running. Running away is Mia’s special talent, together with invisibility – survival techniques she’s perfected over the years. So, she’ll put up with Max and his moods, ignore him calling her a teen emo freak (he’s not to know that her black hair used to be honey blonde or her heavy eyeliner isn’t by choice) and just bloody well jog on. It’s easy to hide when nobody really sees you. But what happens when Max finally opens his eyes?

Unperfect is a romance that hit me hard on several levels. It is not an easy read, but it was so worth it. Mia is trying to survive, trying to hide in plain sight, until she is safe and can move forward. Max is a grumpy guy with a heart of gold and a penchant for protecting and helping those around him. The dance these two do around each other- with trust, safety, and health issues is highly engaging. It was certainly not easy to read- the abuse and related recovery is hard to read but very realistically handled- which made it hit especially hard. Seeing the character arch for both Max and Mia, and how they interacted with others, was very well crafted and multi dimensional. The heart and honesty in this book is off the charts. I liked that even though so much of the book is based around heavy themes and healing, there are enough lighter moments and some joy to keep everything well balanced. I think there are definitely some people that might not be in the right place to read this, especially if they are  dealing with issues of violence and fear, but I think it might offer the hope and understanding that other people might need to help them heal.

Unperfect is not necessarily an easy or fun read. However, it is touching and engaging. I think it will strike a chord with many readers. 

Early Book Review: Heiress for Hire (Duke's Heiress) by Madeline Hunter

Heiress for Hire is the first book in the Duke's Heiress series by Madeline Hunter. It is scheduled for release on April 28 2020.

Minerva Hepplewhite has learned the hard way how to take care of herself. When an intruder breaks into her home, she doesn’t swoon or simper. Instead she wallops the rogue over the head and ties him up—only to realize he is Chase Radnor, the man who nearly got her convicted of her late husband’s murder. Now he’s insisting that Minerva has inherited a fortune from his uncle, a wealthy Duke. Chase can’t decide whether Minerva is a wronged woman or a femme fatale.  Since the scandal surrounding her husband’s death, she has set up a discreet detective business to rival Chase’s own. She may be the perfect person to help him uncover the truth about his uncle’s demise. But as proximity gives way to mutual seduction, Chase realizes he craves a much deeper alliance.

Heiress for Hire is a book that might be a romance, which is well done, but I often was more invested in the mystery than the romance. I liked Minerva, she was still compassionate and sweet despite what she has been through in the past. She is smart and I enjoyed getting to know her and her found family. Chase was a little harder to get to know, his mysteries were revealed more slowly, but he was a well written character. I think their individual lives and their coming together were very well done, and I liked the importance put on consent. I liked that an old mystery was solved, even if I expected that outcome before it was revealed, but I would have liked a little more closure on the larger mystery. I waiting for some big reveal, but we did get many smaller pieces to the puzzle and veiled conclusions. I suspect there will be more as the series continues, but I am not sure if I will be continuing.

Heiress for Hire is a historical romance with complex characters and an underlying mystery or two. 

Early Book Review: Bears Behaving Badly (BeWere my Heart) by MaryJanice Davidson

Bears Behaving Badly is the first book in the BeWere my Heart series by MaryJanice Davidson. It is currently scheduled for release on March 31 2020. 

These social worker bear shifters give the term "mama bear" a whole new meaning! Werebear shifter Annette Garsea is a caseworker for the Interspecies Placement Agency. When a selectively mute and freakishly strong teen werewolf is put in her custody, Annette has to uncover the young girl's secrets if she's to have any hopes of helping her. And not even the growling of a scruffy private investigator can distract her from her mission. Bear shifter David Auberon appreciates Annette's work with at-risk teen shifters, but he's not sure if her latest charge is so much a vulnerable teen as a predator who should be locked up. All that changes when he, Annette, and her motley band of juveniles find themselves dodging multiple murder attempts and uncovering a trafficking cartel that doesn't just threaten the kids, but risks discovery of the shifters by the wider world of homo sapiens.

Bears Behaving Badly has a good deal going on.Annette and David had some great dialogue, and I enjoyed the clueless, thought to be unrequited love, aspect of the story. They were fun and I liked getting to know them. I also really liked the secondary characters- and found some of them more interesting and entertaining than the major players on occasion.  I like that parts of the character backstories are slowly revealed rather than having a massive information dump. I thought that the mystery of what was going on and who the mole was had a good pace and had a good balance of danger and character exploration. Although, I have to say that some of the big picture was a little obvious to me and I wanted to facepalm when Annette and David finally figured it out. The story was fun and enjoyable. However, there several occasions when the transitions were sudden and I had to go back and reread bits to see if I missed something, some clue, as to how they got to be somewhere or which line of dialogue when to which character. Everytime that this happened with a scene transition I was taken out of the story and it took away from my enjoyment a bit. 

Bears Behaving Badly is a fun romantic adventure with a nice balance of humor, mystery, and a touch of heat.

Book Review: Fast (Burns Brothers) by Gillian Archer

Fast by Gillian Archer is the second book in the Burns Brother world. I did not read the first book, but this book can be read as a stand alone.

Family means everything to this tattooed bad boy--good thing since he's about to start his own. I wanted her the first time I laid eyes on her. But what starts as a fun time, quickly gets serious when the stick turns pink a month later. My life is already chaos with my recently paroled father popping up and the usual drama at the family business building custom motorcycles. Plus our reality show just got picked up for a full season. But it really hits the fan when I discover that the new woman in my life is the daughter of the President of the West Coast Kings, the baddest motorcycle club in Sacramento--and our biggest client. Think he'll like being called Grandpa? Life just got hella complicated.

Fast is a contemporary romance that deals with some hard issues, but felt sweet and heartwarming.  Ryan is an alphamallow- all hard edges and tattoos on the outside but a softy at his core. On the surface Hope is sweetness and confidence, but she has a core of steel.  The compassion and care for others is something they shared, and something I loved to see expressed by each of them so differently. They each have huge father and family issues, but I loved the way they found comfort together and worked things out. The surprise baby was done very well- I liked how honest and realistic the complications of that were handled. The switching perspectives helped keep track of the worries and fears they each had, and the circumstances that made things more complicated. The heat is on high, but so is the danger and the sweet. I liked how well balanced the different elements were, and there were a few times that characters surprised me and took an unexpected path. I was never bored, and am looking forward to going back to read the first book and continuing to follow this series.

Fast has a nearly perfect balance of danger, sweet, and heat. It is a must read for fans of the author.

Early Book Review: Devil's Way Out by Nika Dixon

Devil's Way Out by Nika Dixon is currently scheduled for release on June 24 2019. Still angry over the death of the woman he loved, rancher Marshall Boyer wants nothing to do with women or love. But when the mysterious Emma drops into his life—barefoot, broke, and running scared—he can’t let her go. Artist Emmaline Katz has a dangerous secret. After escaping a ruthless criminal who exploited her for years, her quest for freedom crashes to a halt in rural Montana. Out of money and options, she finds an unlikely haven with a handsome cowboy. But no matter how much she wants to believe his offer of protection, he doesn’t know the truth about her, her secret, or the man who will stop at nothing to get her back. Time is running out. A cold-blooded killer has come to town, and Emma isn’t the only target.

Devil's Way Out was an engaging read, and I really liked the characters and how the story was revealed. Marshall is a strong man struggling with starting over after a less than stellar ending to a relationship. Emma is running from much more than a bad break up.I like that both characters have a strong will but are damaged emotional from past mistakes and trauma. Nether is perfect, or pitiful, and they manage to save each other even though they both fought it and feared the outcome every step along the way. I love seeing genuinely good characters find a happy ending despite bad experiences, and that is exactly what happens here. I am rather hoping that Dixon writes happy endings for more of the characters in this small town, because I am just as interested in what happens to the rest of the family and town next, and in seeing Marshall and Emma continue on their path.

Devil's Way Out is a contemporary romance with heart and danger balanced nicely. I enjoyed the read and will be looking for more from the author.

Book Review: Rough Trade (Woodbury Boys) by Sydney Bell

Rough Trade is third book in the Woodbury Boys series by Sydney Bell. I have not read the previous books, and aside from some character connections that returning readers will enjoy, this book stands up well on its own. 

Quick-witted hustler Ghost is no stranger to living dangerously; survival has always been the name of the game. He’s just always gone it alone. Now he’s got the wrong people breathing down his neck, and the only way out demands placing his trust in the unlikeliest of heroes: Duncan Rook, a gruff cop whose ethics are as solid as his body. Cozying up to a criminal is hardly what Duncan’s reputation on the force needs—especially when that criminal is temptation personified. Ghost is Duncan’s polar opposite, and the last person he expected to fall for. So then why does every imaginable scenario for taking down their common enemy end with Ghost in his arms?

Rough Trade is much more than  expected, and while having read the previous books would have made some of the secondary characters and wrap ups have more meaning to me, I still felt like i understood Ghost and Duncan fully and enjoy their story. I found the beginning hard to get into, but it was necessary to fully understand where Ghost was coming from and how he ended up in the situation that brings him to Duncan's door.  I found the banter and developing relationship between the two to be well done, and well balanced with the danger and issues that they had to face. I like that the traumas of their pasts were not glossed over, but the time and effort that it takes to deal with them is talked about and included in the story. I really enjoyed that while attraction and interest might have developed quickly, the relationship was not instant or ignoring problems. I think the confrontation of the issues is what made the relationship so strong in the end. There were a good amount of surprises, scares, and chase scenes- and a good deal of emotional moments. I think the story is realistic and well balanced character wise. It was a little heavier than my typical read- but I am glad I gave it a chance.

Rough Trade is a romance that deals with some hard, real issues. I liked that it was about the characters dealing with their own issues in the process of finding their way to an happy ever after.

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

Forgetting the Scot is the third book in the Highlanders of Balforss series by Jennifer Trethewey. While I have read the previous books, each stands up on its own as well.

Virginia Whitebridge is trapped in a loveless, abusive marriage. The law says her husband can have whatever he wants from her—so he's taken her inheritance. And he tried to kill her. After a close escape, Virginia feels protected for the first time in forever, thanks to the Scottish Highlands and the Highlander Magnus Sinclair. But she must go back to England, regardless of the danger, to reclaim what's hers. Even if it means leaving her heart in Scotland. It's just Magnus's luck that he's fallen for a woman he can't have. Virginia is rich and titled, and English. To keep her safe, he must follow her to the one place he loathes—England. Where the bowing, preening London Society has a secret language of manners unknown to him. Where he is too large, too uncivilized, too everything. Despite omens that death awaits him there, Magnus vows to help Virginia go to London and restore her fortune. Get in. Get out. Or die trying.

Forgetting the Scot is an engaging and entertaining read. I really enjoyed the characters, and I think newcomers to the series will enjoy the cast of characters and find them interesting, I think returning readers with enjoy the return of favorite characters and the overlapping of stories even more. I liked Virginia's character and how she is always willing to put others first, even to her own detriment, without being foolish about it. Magnus consistently made me smile. The juxtaposition of his size and protective anger with his sweet and occasionally naive nature made me love him as soon as I read from his point of view.  The problems that Virginia and crew face are pretty daunting, but I love that friendship, determination, and honest are what overcome them in the end. There were some unexpected twists and surprises, and some moments that I am hoping to see in the future. I really enjoyed the read, and and rather looking forward to more about some of the secondary characters that are still unattached or working through the problems that are keeping them from their happily ever after.

Forgetting the Scot is another enjoyable, and well researched, read from Trethewey. I look forward to what ever comes next.

Book Review: Flare Up (Boston Fire) by Shannon Stacey

Flare Up is part of the Boston Fire series by Shannon Stacey. While fans of the series will know more about the characters and relationships going in than new readers, I think the book stands up well on its own as well.

Nursing a broken heart while everybody around him seems to be drowning in happiness has Grant Cutter wondering whether staying with Engine 59—or even Boston Fire—is in his future. It’s tempting as hell to pack up what fits in his Jeep and hit the road. But then a 911 call brings the woman who shattered his heart back into his life, and he knows he won’t ever be able to fully leave her in his rearview mirror. For a few months, Wren Everett had thought the nightmare of her past was behind her and she might live happily ever after with Grant. Until she got the phone call letting her know the time her ex had spent in jail for assault hadn’t cooled his temper or determination that she belonged with him. Cutting ties with Grant was the hardest thing she’d ever had to do, but it was also the only way to keep him safe. Now that Grant is back, he’s not letting Wren push him away again. And even with the trust issues between them, Wren dares to hope she and Grant might have a future together after all…if they’re willing to fight for it.

Flare Up is a well written story. Even though I had not read the previous books, and know I missed some of the character and world building, I felt like I was well introduced the the main characters and how they relate to the others. I liked both characters, and felt like I could understand their fears and choices, even when I might not agree with them. They were real, flawed people that felt like I could meet them out and about rather than characters in a book. I thought that Wren's doubts and worries were very realistic, the results of living through a controlling and abusive relationship were represented very accurately. I liked that Wren and Grant actually talked about their problems and concerns, with each other and friends. They acted like adults rather than ignoring the problems and avoiding them (for the most part). I love when book characters actually do this instead of things magically being all better with no work done to fix things. I will say that I was expecting one more big confrontation or action scene, and the solution with the ex seemed a little anticlamatic. It was real, and realistic, but I think I was just expected a big dramatic moment after all the problems he caused. 

Flare Up is a solid contemporary romance, with plenty of action and emotion- and a nice dash of steam. 

Book Review: The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo (Victorian Rebels) by Kerrigan Byrne

The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo is the sixth book in the Victorian Rebels series by Kerrigan Byrne.  I have read three of the previous books, and recognized some of the secondary characters because of it, but think those fresh to the series will be able to fully enjoy this installment without having read the previous books. 

He is known only as The Rook. A man with no name, no past, no memories. He awakens in a mass grave, a magnificent dragon tattoo on his muscled forearm the sole clue to his mysterious origins. His only hope for survival—and salvation—lies in the deep, fiery eyes of the beautiful stranger who finds him. Who nurses him back to health. And who calms the restless demons in his soul. Lorelai will never forget the night she rescued the broken dark angel in the woods, a devilishly handsome man who haunts her dreams to this day. Crippled as a child, she devoted herself to healing the poor tortured man. And when he left, he took a piece of her heart with him. Now, after all these years, The Rook has returned. Like a phantom, he sweeps back into her life and avenges those who wronged her. But can she trust a man who’s been branded a rebel, a thief, and a killer? And can she trust herself to resist him when he takes her in his arms?

The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo is a historical romance about redemption and second chances. I liked Lorelai, and how she is both optimistic and smart about her own survival. She faces the ugly things in her world and finds a way to do as much good as she can and survive at the same time. The Rook, Ash, or whatever you want to call our leading man has been through hell. He was imprisoned, beaten and left for dead, and more. He should be a sympathetic character, and sometimes I really do fear for him and empathize with the positions he finds himself in. However, more often than not he rubs me the wrong way and I just find him creepy. As awesome as Lorelai is, and how much love and caring she has, it is not her job to fix him (or anyone). Nothing about his obsession with her, and his envisioning her as so perfect and pure, seems romantic to me. It feels like it will lead to a different kind of captivity and abuse rather than the partnership real love and relationships should have. Others might not have such a strong reaction to this, but it hit me hard and left me almost rooting for those that wanted to keep the pair apart, although for different reasons. I think the action, danger, and secondary characters were all very well done, and while I guessed at the treasure very early in the book, I thought the reveal was satisfying. 

The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo is a book that left me conflicted. I enjoyed some of it, but found our 'hero' to be more than a little problematic and a bit creepy to be honest. I remember liking the previous books more, so I will be willing to give the author another go. 

Book Review: Saddle Up by A.M. Arthur

Saddle Up is a contemporary romance by A.M. Arthur This is the first book I have read from the author, and it is a stand alone. However, there is a good amount of secondary characters with depth and relationships that I feel like have, or should have, their own stories. I fully expect there are previously published books with these characters that are just waiting for me to read them. 

Reyes Caldero keeps his past buried deep and his emotions buried deeper. But what he doesn’t say he always makes up for with his actions. When the hot chef he once saved from an abusive ex turns up at Clean Slate Ranch, the quiet cowboy is happy to act on their sizzling chemistry, even if he’s not ready to share his secrets—or his heart. Miles Arlington needs to get the hell out of San Francisco, and heading north for a job near Clean Slate Ranch seems like just the thing. It doesn’t hurt that his secret crush slash onetime rescuer happens to work at the ranch. Miles has never been one for the outdoors, but the superhot Reyes has him ready to saddle up. Reyes is happy to keep things casual, even though his heart has other ideas. And when Miles is forced to confront his past again, Reyes and Miles will have to put all their trust in each other if they want any chance at building a future together.

Saddle Up is a romance that tackles issues of abuse, stalking, and horrible mistakes from the past. I though Miles and his struggles to escape a bad situation is very well written, and the details about his emotional struggles and how he changes and grows during the process felt right. Reyes has his own demons to fight, and I found his handling of it to be realistic and understandable, even when he might not have made the right choice. I loved the pair together, with Reyes so aware and caring towards Miles- andhid worries about his nature and past. I thought all of the characters, both our main players and the secondary characters, were extremely well fleshed out and they all felt very real to me. The danger and drama, not to mention the family issues, added a good amount of crisis to push things along without being too much or crossing the line into melodramatic. The only thing that did not feel real to me is something that I find in so many books of all genres- why is every so beautiful? I need to find some of these towns and ranches, even though I am happily taken I would love a chance to sit around and watch all these stunning people for a weekend.

Saddle Up is a great romance with characters facing huge personal battles, and working their way toward happiness and love. I found Reyes and Miles to be a delightful couple, and I cannot wait to explore other books from the author.

Book Review: Rescued by a Highlander (Grant Clan) by Keira Montclair

Rescued by a Highlander is the first book in the Grant Clan series of historical romances by Keira Montclair. While it was originally published in 2013, it has been newly revised and updated with a new editor.

Madeline MacDonald has been a victim of her stepbrother's cruelty ever since her parents' death in a fire two years ago. Forced into a betrothal to a man she hates, her only way out is to escape to a convent. Laird Alexander Grant is honor bound to rescue Maddie after seeing the bruises on her face. What he doesn't realize is that once he holds the beaten lass in his arms, his heart will never be the same. He vows revenge for the abuse she was forced to endure and yearns to make the sweet woman with an iron will his, but can he help her fight the demons in her mind left behind by her abusers' horrid treatment?

Rescued by a Highlander is a book that I thought I would love, but it never really worked for me. Let's start with the good. I love books that have a abuse survive finding peace, love, and a happy ever after. I really do. I adore books were the other half of that couple is working towards understanding and helping, and while they make mistakes (like yelling at them when worried about their safety) they work on it. I was thrilled with Alex's patience with Maddie, and willingness to take things super slow and to always check in with consent rather than forging ahead and assuming at any point. What I did not like was Maddie. While her ability to survive abuse stoically and deal with everything dealt to her was likely intended to show her as strong, I was left wondering why this woman that is strong, caring, and very pain tolerant would stay rather than trying to make an escape? She came off as a doormat rather than a survivor. Otherwise she was painted as perfect, sweet and so patient and kind that she did not even want her tormentors hurt. The characters felt a little flat, there was no real motivation for the bad guys, other than just being evil. In fact I read another historical with an abuse survive shortly after this, and I had trouble remembering much about this book other than what bothered me about Maddie. I had several other little things that irked me- but my biggest issue is that I was fully expecting to love this story and the characters. The disappointment of the heroine being a too perfect but passive, and a dig at homosexuality really left me less than happy with my read. 

Rescued by a Highlander is not for everyone. The characters are lacking depth but the idea of the story and the patience and thoughts of Alex in helping Maddie deal with her past might make it worth the read for some.

Book Review: Claiming Felicity (Ace Security) by Susan Stoker

Claiming Felicity is the fourth book in the Ace Security series by Susan Stoker. While the romance and the danger surrounding Felicity stands up by itself. However, fans of the series will have a better understanding of the characters, the town, the friendships, and what some of the characters have already gone through to get to this point. So, newcomers to the author will be able to enjoy the read, but those that have followed the series will get much more from it.

Former mercenary Ryder Sinclair’s stunning discovery that he has three half brothers in Castle Rock, Colorado, is giving them all the chance to color in the spaces of their tragic pasts. For Ryder, establishing roots is made all the more desirable by Felicity Jones. But if Ryder’s instincts are correct, this breathtaking beauty is in trouble. Castle Rock isn’t Felicity’s home. Like her false identity, it’s just a cover. All she wants is enough cash to keep moving to another temporary hideaway—to stay on the run from a secret that’s haunted her for years. As safe as Ryder’s strong embrace makes her feel, she fears that falling for him, and staying in Colorado, will put everyone she’s come to love in danger. The more Ryder learns about Felicity, the more determined he is not to let her go. It’s time for her to stop running—even as a relentless danger closes in, threatening their love and their lives.

Claiming Felicity is the last book in the Ace Security series (I think, although there promises to be a off shoot series). I was glad to see Felicity get her story told, she was one of my favorite characters in the entire series. She is on the run from an obsessive guy who thinks she did him wrong by reporting an abuse situation. She has been alone and running for so long that she is ready to do it again, but this time to protect those important to her more than to protect herself. Ryder might only be the half brother to the Anderson brothers, but he has the same kind of instant connection and attraction to Felicity as the other guys had to their counterparts. I like that while the connection was instant, and the alpha male protection mode was on right away, Ryder also respected Felicity and never rushed her to come to any decision or share things she was not comfortable. That kind of strong but honorable hero works for me, even though I find the instant "I'm going to marry her" thing to be a little off putting. However, the fact that the relationship was a slow burn, despite Ryder's focus on Felicity. I found the bad guy to be fascinating, and I think a study of how he went so wrong would be interesting, maybe the spin off series can pair a person with some insight with one of Ryder's buddies who will feature in the next series, although I still want to see Cole find his match. Needless to say, I will be continuing to follow Stoker's writing, and try to find the time to go back and read some of the series that I missed prior to finding these books. 

Book Review: Claiming Bailey (Ace Security) by Susan Stoker

Claiming Bailey is the third book in the Ace Security series by Susan Stoker. While I have read this series in order, it is not strictly necessary for the romance aspect. However, those that have been following the series will understand the characters and the larger story arch much better than those coming in cold.

Bailey Hampton will do whatever it takes to keep both herself and her little brother safe from the vicious Inca Boyz gang. Hiding out in Castle Rock, Colorado, is only a temporary solution until she can earn enough money to get out of the state altogether. But when she meets handsome security nerd Nathan Anderson, she discovers a reason to stay and fight for what she wants. Ace Security’s Nathan Anderson has always been the “numbers guy,” not the man any of the firm’s clients look to when their safety is threatened. But from the first time he ran into Bailey, she never made him feel like less of a protector than his brothers. Nathan was attracted to the petite, black-haired pixie with wild tattoos from the start, and by some miracle, she seems to return his interest. But danger stalks Bailey and her brother, so it’s up to Nathan to channel his inner alpha and find a way to end the threat to their lives once and for all—and he’s not giving up Bailey without a fight.
Claiming Bailey is exactly what I was hoping for, and a little more. I have been waiting for Nathan to find his match, and Bailey was even better than I expected. I liked both the characters. They are multi layered, and how they ended up as the adults we see is clearly explained and their actions. As usual I did find myself a little annoyed with the alpha male style, but that seems to be the case with most of this genre lately rather than an issue with this particular book. I did like the way Bailey and Nathan talk things out, and while Nathan wants to plan and protect, he generally treats Bailey as an equal rather than someone that needs to be saved. Like the previous books in the series, the danger surrounds our heroine is because of the Inca gang, but I felt like it was more of a background story than it had been in previous book. It certainly was important and a major catalyst in the story I found that the characters and relationships had the spotlight- which made me happy.

Claiming Bailey is most likely my favorite book from the series, and thankfully I know there will be at least one more- which I cannot wait to read. 

Book Review: Where I End by Michelle Dare

Where I End by Michelle Dare is a new adult, contemporary romance. Eve has always felt a connection to Cy, even though he seems pretentious, arrogant, condescending and cruel. All that changed one spring morning when she discovered that she know the man behind the facade at all. He is angry, desperate, and broken. Cy was second from ending it all when she intervened, and then tried to push her away. Can they save each other?

Where I End is a story of abuse, redemption, and bravery. Cy might have always acted like the confident soul people expect him to be- but it is all an act to hide a dark secret. When Eve uncovers the truth, she supports and defends him when no one else has. Each of them has things to overcome, and together with Cy's friend Parker we get glimpse into each of their minds. While not a easy read, particularly for those that are being abused or have been in the past, I think it it honest and extremely realistic. The suffering and journey towards healing pictured here is heart breaking but also hopeful in its own way. I loved Eve's character and how she refuses to back down, even when it might have been the safer choice. I really enjoyed Parker's character, and wonder what might be in store for him. 

My only issue with the book, is one that seems to be prevalent in many romance books lately. That is the possessive and almost obsessive nature of the actual romance. While here is is based on a connection, love, and support- too often in real life the declaration of MINE is not healthy. While it is nice to have someone that does not even notice others, and have that reciprocated,the jealousy and possessiveness is not necessarily healthy.  As someone that managed to escape an unhealthy and controlling relationship in my early years, the romanticizing of that attitude never sits well with me. However, that is my personal hang up- but I hope that younger readers are not holding up that aspect of a relationship as ideal because that can be a warning sign of abuses to come.

Where I End is a book that I enjoyed on many levels, but was bothered by on one. The possessiveness fit for these characters, but in real life it is often not a good thing.  My worry that others might fall prey to, or search out, relationship where their partner is controlling or possessive because it seems so romantic really bothers me. I know it is nothing new, dysfunctional relationships have been part of literature forever, but it has always bothered me and always will. However, I keep reading these book- mainly because Dare does such a great job with the characters and other huge issues that I just cannot stop myself. 

Book Review: Duke of Desire (Maiden Lane) by Elizabeth Hoyt

Duke of Desire is part of the Maiden Lane series by Elizabeth Hoyt. I have read some of the books in this series, but not all of them. I think newcomers to the series will be able to fully enjoy the read, while those that have been following the series might have a better understanding of the underlying plot that brings out characters together.

Refined, kind, and intelligent, Lady Iris Jordan finds herself the unlikely target of a diabolical kidnapping. Her captors are the notoriously evil Lords of Chaos. When one of the masked-and nude!-Lords spirits her away to his carriage, she shoots him only to find she may have been a trifle hasty. Cynical, scarred, and brooding, Raphael de Chartres, the Duke of Dyemore, has made it his personal mission to infiltrate the Lords of Chaos and destroy them. Rescuing Lady Jordan was never in his plans. But now with the Lords out to kill them both, he has but one choice: marry the lady in order to keep her safe. Much to Raphael's irritation, Iris insists on being the sort of duchess who involves herself in his life-and bed. Soon he's drawn both to her quick wit and her fiery passion. But when Iris discovers that Raphael's past may be even more dangerous than the present, she falters. Is their love strong enough to withstand not only the Lords of Chaos but also Raphael's own demons?

Duke of Desire is a historical novel with great characters. I loved Iris's spirit and loving nature. While she stands up for herself despite her fears, she is also sacrificing and loving. Raphael is a wounded man, scarred inside and out. He is protective of those in his protection, and those weaker than himself. I found the tangled history and danger of Raph and the Lords of Chaos make his character so much more compelling than he would have been if just a powerful man trying to fix things. The combination of Iris and Raph was delightful, and I really enjoyed their give and take, and the development of their relationship. I think the hidden evil was well done, and while I had my suspicions as to who was behind it all, the reveal was worth the ride. I do think that on occasion the overall danger and that part of the plot verged on melodramatic or Gothic, I think that could also be the catalyst that was needed to get Raph to admit he might need help, and love.  This was a great ride, and Iris's spunk made me smile many times.

Duke of Desire is a story of love and redemption. I liked the characters and their story. I think the danger aspect of the plot might seem a little overdone for some readers, but it was quite the ride. 

Book Review: The Broken Duke (1797 Club) by Jess Michaels

The Broken Duke is third book in the 1797 Club series by Jess Michaels. I have not read any of the other books in this series, and while I think those that have read the other books will have a better knowledge of the characters and important events from the past, I think that newcomers will be able to enjoy the story without feeling the lack. 

Adelaide Longford is London’s most overlooked bluestocking wallflower and that is fine by her. Being ignored gives her the perfect opportunity to sneak out and secretly take on the persona of the most celebrated actress of the day, Lydia Ford. The thrill of walking the boards and hearing the applause of those who watch her is the most exciting experience of her life. That is until Graham Everly, Duke of Northfield comes into her life. He is broken after the humiliating loss of his longtime fiance to his supposed best friend and they enter into a lusty affair which sets her body on fire. Graham has no idea why he’s so attracted to both the bespectacled, prickly Adelaide and the passionate Lydia, but soon he is caught in a dance with them both and torn between which future he wants to pursue. When Graham finds out Adelaide’s secret identity will he be able to accept both parts of her? And will he be able to save her from a lurking danger that neither of them could have ever foreseen?

The Broken Duke is a historical romance with more layers than I was expecting. Both Adelaide and Graham have suffered from family abuse, and society's judgement and their own self judgement. I like the way they verbally spare with each other, being themselves even as they try to hide themselves. The interaction between the couple, and the important secondary characters, really made them come alive and made me care about them. I also like that the dangers of being a woman in the era (and to no small degree today) is so much a part of the story and that Graham becomes even more aware of it. So often the gender issues of the day are drought up in historical romance, but once the couple find their path that issue is lost in the background. Here, it is on the minds of characters throughout the book, and it looks like that is true through the series in general, judging by the characters and what they have been through.  I was also glad to see real problems, real friendships, and actual solutions to problems rather than just letting things fade away once the happy couple finds their happy ever after. I also love that while there is plenty of steam and lust, there is also emotion and quality characters that are working to be better, not just to find someone to make them happy. 

The Broken Duke is an engaging and entertaining read. I think fans of Michaels, and those that love a layered historical romance in general, will enjoy and appreciate the read. I am tempted to go back and read the previous books, and I very much want to read the next book in the series. Those that are abuse survivors might find some of the book hard to read.