Book Review: Something Spectacular (Something Fabulous) by Alexis Hall

Something Spectacular is the follow up to Something Fabulous by Alexis Hall. Peggy Delancey’s not at all ready to move on from her former flame, Arabella Tarleton. But Belle has her own plans for a love match, and she needs Peggy’s help to make those plans a reality. Still hung up on her feelings and unable to deny Belle what she wants, Peggy reluctantly agrees to help her woo the famous and flamboyant opera singer Orfeo. She certainly doesn’t expect to find common ground with a celebrated soprano, but when Peggy and Orfeo meet, a whole new flame is ignited that she can’t ignore. Peggy finds an immediate kinship with Orfeo, a castrato who’s just as nonconforming as she is—and just as affected by their instant connection. They’ve never been able to find their place in the world, but as the pair walks the line between friendship, flirtation, and something more, they may just find their place with each other.

Something Spectacular is a splendid follow up to Something Fabulous. I was very happy to read Peggy's story, and get to met Ofreo. I am a huge fan of the level of communication and consent that the author uses in their books, and how much care they show their readers with the heads up about the content of the book. That shows a great deal of awareness and respect for the reader, which makes me extremely happy. I also loved the story itself, of course. There a good many twists and turns and I will admit to being surprised once or twice with the ways particular moments played out. However, there were also couple things that I really expected to happen that did not,  I enjoyed the sense of humor that threaded through the book.  Peggy figuring out who they were and what they really wanted is as much the point of the story as their love life. I just enjoy the level of honesty and self exploration for the characters hat the author includes in their work. I hope that this series continues in some way, because I would love to know what happens next for Belle and some of the other secondary characters that I have come to enjoy in this series. 

Something Spectacular is a read that fans of the author, and the previous book, will not want to miss. 

Book Review: The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes by Cat Sebastian

The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes by Cat Sebastian is a historical romance. It is the second book in the  Queer Principles of Kit Webb series, and while returning readers will have a head start on knowing the characters I think newcomers like myself can fully enjoy the read even if they missed the first book.

Marian Hayes, the Duchess of Clare, just shot her husband. Of course, the evil, murderous man deserved what was coming to him, but now she must flee to the countryside. Unfortunately, the only person she can ask for help is the charismatic criminal who is blackmailing her—and who she may have left tied up a few hours before. A highwayman, con artist, and all-around cheerful villain, Rob Brooks is no stranger to the wrong side of the law or the right side of anybody’s bed. He never meant to fall for the woman whose secrets he promised to keep for the low price of five hundred pounds, but how could he resist someone who led him on a merry chase all over London, left him tied up in a seedy inn, and then arrived covered in her husband’s blood and in desperate need of his help? As they flee across the country—stopping to pick pockets, drink to excess, and rescue invalid cats—they discover more true joy and peace than either has felt in ages. But when the truth of Rob’s past catches up to him, they must decide if they are willing to reshape their lives in order to forge a future together.

The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes is a fun and highly engaging read. I love that even though all of the characters have their own trauma to deal with all of the major players are still genuinely good people, despite their less than legal actions, and are doing their best to prevent trauma to others. I also like how they Marian's daughter and all the emotions involved in the complicated pregnancy, birth, and aftermath are handled. Not everyone has the same experiences, and seeing something that falls outside the fairytale ideal felt right here, and might help some process their own feelings and experiences- and their expectations for themselves and others. Admitting, there were moments that I felt Rob was too perfect, but it really worked for his situation, past, and ideals so I was quickly able to move past it. This book was just good fun and a pleasure to read, with a nice dose of sexy times mixed it with the humor and adventure. I think just about everyone can enjoy this read.

The Perfect Crimes of Marian Hayes was simply a joy to read. The book was well written and the characters made me smile no matter how badly things were going. Now I need to go back and read the first book in the series. 

Book Review: Something Fabulous (Something Fabulous) by Alexis Hall

Something Fabulous is the first book in the Something Fabulous series by Alexis Hall.  Valentine Layton, the Duke of Malvern, has twin problems: literally. It was always his father’s hope that Valentine would marry Miss Arabella Tarleton. But, unfortunately, too many novels at an impressionable age have caused her to grow up…romantic. So romantic that a marriage of convenience will not do and after Valentine’s proposal she flees into the night determined never to set eyes on him again. Arabella’s twin brother, Mr. Bonaventure “Bonny” Tarleton, has also grown up…romantic. And fully expects Valentine to ride out after Arabella and prove to her that he’s not the cold-hearted cad he seems to be. Despite copious misgivings, Valentine finds himself on a pell-mell chase to Dover with Bonny by his side. Bonny is unreasonable, overdramatic, annoying, and beautiful? And being with him makes Valentine question everything he thought he knew. About himself. About love. Even about which Tarleton he should be pursuing.

Something Fabulous is a book that had some great moments, and some that just did not work for me. The story starts in mid proposal between Valentine and Arabella, and I felt like I might have missed some of the story leading up to that. Thankfully the information gaps were filled as the story continued, but it just felt a little disconnected at the start. I thought the complete obliviousness of Valentine was very well done, and led to some great moments of humor for readers, even as it often brought greater problems and frustration to the character. I loved Bonny's character, and found that the interactions Bonny had with just about every other character were highly entertaining and engaging. I have to say though that while I similarly loved most of the secondary characters  I did not enjoy Arabella's character in the slightest. In general I thought there were a great many high points, mostly when Bonny was on the page or Valentine was figuring things out, there were also some lulls that frustrated me or slowed down the pacing for me. I loved some of the character work and interaction so much that the issues I had diminished my love for the read a little, I do fully intend to continue reading the series because so much more when right than wrong.

Something Fabulous is a historical romance with some great moments.

Book Review: Rules for Heiresses by Amalie Howard

Rules for Heiresses by Amalie Howard is a follow up to The Princess Stakes, but there is no series title that I could find, and think it stands well on its own.

Born to a life of privilege, Lady Ravenna Huntley rues the day that she must marry. She's refused dozens of suitors and cried off multiple betrothals, but running away—even if brash and foolhardy—is the only option left to secure her independence.Lord Courtland Chase, grandson of the Duke of Ashton, was driven from England at the behest of his cruel stepmother. Scorned and shunned, he swore never to return to the land of his birth. But when a twist of bad luck throws a rebellious heiress into his arms, at the very moment he finds out he's the new Duke, marriage is the only alternative to massive scandal. Both are quick to deny it, but a wedding might be the only way out for both of them. And the attraction that burns between them makes Ravenna and Courtland wonder if it'll truly only be a marriage of convenience after all. 

Rules for Heiresses is a romance with a great deal going on. I liked Ravenna, and thought she faced a great deal of growth in recognizing her own privilege and wanting to understand and grow. Courtland did not grow quite as much, but the couple was fun to watch as they tried to figure out what they each wanted, and how to achieve it. I liked the mystery and danger aspects of the story. I did feel like there were moments that moved way too fast, skipping weeks here and there to get right back to the action. I am not sure what I would have like to see done differently but since the couple knew each other already there way a great deal of the normal get to know each other stuff that was just kind of skipped and that might be part of what I was hoping to see. I think race and prejudice was handled fairly well, and I liked that Ravenna making the effort to grow and learn was part of the journey.  I rather wanted to see more of some of the secondary characters. I thought Rawley was a great start to a fascinating character- I would have loved to have seen more interaction with him and Courtland as well as Ravenna. If he is such a trusted person, and has such an important role in just about everything then he should have had more of a chance to have his say. I feel like he could have straightened everything out much quicker and more efficiently. That being said, I did enjoy the read, but had a few moments that I would have liked to see go a bit differently and follow a slightly different path after an extremely strong start. 

Rules for Heiresses is a solid historical romance. 

Book Review: Heiress in Red Silk (Duke's Heiress) by Madeline Hunter

Heiress in Red Silk by Madeline Hunter is the second book in the Duke's Heiress series.While having read the previous book in the series (Heiress for Hire) will give readers more knowledge of the characters and larger story line, I think newcomers will be able to enjoy the romance as a stand alone well enough if they want.

In one life-changing windfall, Rosamund Jameson goes from struggling shopkeeper to heiress—and  co-owner of a new business. Not only will her sudden fortune allow her to move her millinery shop to fashionable London, but Rosamund will be able to provide her younger sister with a proper entry into society. The only hitch for resourceful Rosamund is her arrogant, infuriatingly handsome business partner. Kevin Radnor is shocked that his late uncle, the Duke of Hollinburgh, bequeathed half his company to a total stranger—worse, a beguiling beauty who can only hinder his enterprise. But Rosamund insists on an active, equal partnership, so Kevin embarks on a plan: a seduction that will lead to a marriage of convenience, giving Rosamund the social status she needs, and guaranteeing him the silent partner he desires. Yet as this charismatic gentleman sets his flirtation in motion, he begins to wonder who is seducing whom—and if he can learn to share himself body and mind, without losing his heart.

Heiress in Red Silk is a solid romance with characters that have strong personalities and points of view. I liked that they were both very smart- even though life and other people's perceptions made them feel like they might not be. I also like that they were both caring characters, although they both could get a bit caught up in their work of choice. I feel like there could have been more danger or intrigue, but I did like that both Kevin and Rosamund had to figure out their own place, and their own needs, rather than just falling into love or lust and ignoring all the work that would be needed to  make their own happy ending. I liked that everyone had flaws and made mistakes, and that imperfection is what general makes characters feel more real for me. I did not get completely engaged in the story, and I am honestly more invested in the details of the larger story line than I have been in the romance portion of this book, or the first in the series. However, maybe that is just my brain telling me my next read should be a mystery.

Book Review: An Earl, the Girl, and a Toddler (Rogues and Remarkable Women) by Vanessa Riley

An Earl, the Girl, and a Toddler is the second book in the Rogues and Remarkable Women series by Vanessa Riley. While the book stands fine on its own, I think returning readers will enjoy the book more than newcomers to the series. 

Surviving a shipwreck en route to London from Jamaica was just the start of Jemina St. Maur's nightmare. Suffering from amnesia, she was separated from anyone who might know her, and imprisoned in Bedlam. She was freed only because barrister Daniel Thackery, Lord Ashbrook, was convinced to betray the one thing he holds dear: the law. Desperate to unearth her true identity, Jemina’s only chance is to purloin dangerous secrets with help from The Widow’s Grace—which means staying steps ahead of the formidable Daniel, no matter how strongly she is drawn to him. Married only by proxy, now widowed by shipwreck, Daniel is determined to protect his little stepdaughter, Hope, from his family’s scandalous reputation. That’s why he has dedicated himself not just to the law, but to remaining as proper, upstanding—and boring—as can be. But the closer he becomes to the mysterious, alluring Jemina, the more Daniel is tempted to break the very rule of law to which he's devoted his life. And as ruthless adversaries close in, will the truth require him, and Jemina, to sacrifice their one chance at happiness?

This is a historical romance with big truths about how women and people of color have been treated in the past, and sadly still are by some today. The characters are fighting for happiness, and finding the truth of past and identity- and thankfully finding what they need and happiness along with it. It was a little more emotional and heavy of a read than I was really prepared for, but I did not reread the blurb before reading- just went by title and cover even though I know better, so that was completely on me. I really liked the characters- but the humorous banter and some of the situational humor were my favorite parts of the book. I also enjoyed the secondary characters and am glad that some already have their own story told, and some will be told later in the series. I felt like the author went into a great deal of effort to do the research and portray the characters in a thoughtful manner, rather than just checking of the boxes to be diverse and thought provoking. I really enjoyed that they included additional information on the historical people, climate, and landmarks of the time at the end of the book. I love a book that engages me on multiple levels, and this did happen here. I enjoyed the read all around- although there were definitely moments that hurt my heart.

An Earl, the Girl, and a Toddler is a thought and emotion provoking romance. It will break your heart and then piece it back together.

Book Review: The Devil in Her Bed by Kerrigan Byrne

The Devil in Her Bed by Kerrigan Byrne is the third and final book in the Devil you Know trilogy. I have read the previous books, and they do help with understanding the characters, their connections, and the danger they face. You could read this book on its own, but you would be missing some of the context that makes the trilogy so engaging. 

He lives in secret service to the Crown—a man of duty, deception, and an undeniable attraction to a woman who threatens to tear his whole world apart. They call him the Devil of Dorset. He stands alone, a man of undeniable power. Moving in and out of shadows, back alleys and ballrooms, he is unstoppable and one of the Crown’s most dangerous weapons. However, when he sets his sights on the undeniably beautiful Countess of Mont Claire, Francesca Cavendish, he doesn’t realize that he has met a match like no other. Francesca is a countess by day and stalks her prey—those responsible for the death of her family—by night. What she does not expect is to be thrown into the path of the devil himself, the Earl of Devlin. She has secrets of her own and he seems determined to lay them bare. Can her heart survive finding the love of her life and losing him when all is revealed?

The Devil in Her Bed is a historical romance with plenty of intrigue and secrets. Just when you think you figured everything out, and that the main players have shared all the important bits, something new pops up. I liked the balance of danger, humor, and heat. I also really enjoyed the characters. While returning readers have met both characters before, it was the first time we really got to see the demons and secrets that they keep mostly to themselves. I think they paired together well. I will admit that each had moments that made me frustrated- but if they had not have done those things the story would have been over way too soon. I think that this book did a great job of getting the characters to their happy ending, and wrapping up the larger story line. 

The Devil in Her Bed is a perfect conclusion to this trilogy. Fans of the series  and author will not want to miss it.

Book Review: Hit Me With Your Best Scot (Wild Wicked Highlanders) by Suzanne Enoch

Hit Me With Your Best Scot is the third and final book in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series by Suzanne Enoch. The MacTaggert brothers have one task, to find English brides or lose their land! Two out of three have found love, but the oldest is still holding out. I do recommend reading this in order, as a series. While the individual romance does stand fine enough alone, the inside jokes and characters are much more interesting to those that have the bigger picture. 

Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, is a big, brawny Highlander who doesn’t like being told what to do—not even by his exasperated English mother who is determined to see her eldest son wedded and bedded. However, when he comes to the rescue of an irresistibly beautiful woman, Coll discovers that he may have found his perfect match. The challenge isn’t that Persephone Jones is famous, wealthy, independent, and smarter than anyone he knows.The problem is that she isn't interested in marrying any man—especially not a hot-headed Scot—even if he is the only man who seems to understand who she really is even when she’s not sure herself. When Coll learns that Persephone is actually a lady-in-hiding and someone is willing to kill her for what she stands to inherit. Well, Coll has never been one to turn down a fight. When hearts are involved, nothing comes between a Highlander and his lady.

Hit Me With Your Best Scot is exactly what I was hoping for to finish off this trilogy. Coll and Persephone are both complex characters, not what everyone expects them to be, and I think that is why the are so drawn to each other. I really enjoyed the wit that both displayed, and found them to be characters that I could root for right away. The drama and danger surrounding Persephone was very well done, as was the emotional conflicts they both faced about who they are and the future. I really love seeing strong minded characters like these come together ad find a happy middleground rather than having one throw away their history or plans without a care. This makes me enjoy a story so much more, and while not every question about the future is answered, the was they will make decisions together is. As usual, the secondary characters were just as interesting and complex as the main players and I enjoyed trying to figure out the mystery right along side our couple. I think that fans of the author, and this series in particular, will be very happy with this read. 

Hit Me With Your Best Scot is a historical romance with a good blend or humor, emotion, and danger. I am sad to see the series come to an end.

Early Audobook Review: Pride and Premeditation by Tirzah Price

Pride and Premeditation by Tirzah Price is scheduled to be released in print and audiobook on March 9 2021. I listened to a simulated audiobook, where a computer generated narration is provide. So, I cannot speak to the skill of the narrator, but I will say that the program did a very good job and there were only occasional moments of stilted speech that reminded me that I was not listening to a person.

This is the first book in the Jane Austen Murder Mysteries series and a retelling of Pride and Prejudice that reimagines the iconic settings, characters, and romances in a whodunit. When a scandalous murder shocks London high society, seventeen-year-old aspiring lawyer Lizzie Bennet seizes the opportunity to prove herself, despite the interference of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, the stern young heir to the prestigious firm Pemberley Associates. Convinced the authorities have imprisoned the wrong person, Lizzie vows to solve the murder on her own. But as the case—and her feelings for Darcy—become more complicated, Lizzie discovers that her dream job could make her happy, but it might also get her killed.

Pride and Premeditation is an engaging work of historical fiction and mystery that had me second guessing my memories of Pride and Prejudice as I read.  I enjoyed getting to see the characters in a new light, and was trying to put the clues together right with Lizzie. The spirited exchanges Lizzie has with Darcy, and just about everyone to be fair, are entertaining and add some more humorous moments to the mystery at hand. I also like that while the details have changed, the spirit of the original still felt very present to me. I also liked that the author included information about the changes she made to the story, and what historical details she had to alter to make her story happen. I think Austen would appreciate the liberties Price took, and most likely wished the freedom she offered characters in the book had been reality in her time. The twists in turns in the investigation, and the way the characters deal with them were well done, and I was fully invested in the characters and the conclusion through the entire book. I am very much looking forward to more in this series, and am disappointed that I listened to a galley so early, because that means I will have to wait that much longer before getting my hands on the books that will hopefully follow. 

Pride and Premeditation is an intriguing and well written book that fans or Jane Austen and Agatha Christie alike will enjoy. 

Book Review: Lord of Secrets (Lord of the Borders) by Mary Gillgannon

Lord of Secrets by Mary Gillgannon is the second book in the Lord of the  Borders series. I did not read the first book, and found it works as a stand alone.

An enigmatic Welsh wise woman. A bold English knight. The first time they are alone, she draws a knife on him. From there, things get interesting. William Fitzhugh is proud to be named lord of Higham Castle on the Welsh border. But defending and managing the castle and the lands surrounding it is a huge responsibility. He needs a wife to aid him, but the only woman who interests him is the local healer, Rhosyn, a mysterious Welshwoman who wants nothing to do with him. Rhosyn fled the traumatic events of her life in Wales to begin a new life at Higham. She hopes to earn the trust of the local people and become accepted in the community, and she fears the new lord of Higham will ruin her plans. The English noblemen she’s known previously were arrogant and cruel. She doesn’t expect this giant of a knight be any different. From the beginning, Lord Fitzhugh confounds her. He seems to genuinely want to do right by the people of Higham and make certain they prosper. Rhosyn is surprised and intrigued by the handsome young lord’s generous and reasonable nature. Other people see it as a weakness and scheme to bring him down. William is entranced by the lovely young healer and admires her knowledge and dedication. But she remains wary and elusive. As the passion between them builds, so does the weight of the secrets keeping them apart. Secrets that have the power to sever the fragile bond between them and destroy all they care about.

Lord of Secrets is a well written romance with complex characters. I liked Rhosyn's character and thought she had a nice balance of strong and vulnerable. The exploration of power and the vulnerability of women, and men of lower classes as well, was handled well and in an honest way. I thought the secondary characters of the town were equally well written, with even the less agreeable characters carrying some complexity to make the reader understand a bit about their reasoning. Fitzhugh was also well developed as a character. His reasonable nature and willingness to learn from those around him made him stand out from other characters, and frankly many other romance heroes.While still very much in charge, he seems very aware of what he does not know, and is willing to lean on others  to bridge the gap. I though the story was good. The politics, drama, and danger were all interesting and mostly came together in a satiafying way by the end of the book. However, I did feel like it ran a little long. About two thirds of the way through the book I was ready for the big wrap up, and it took awhile to get there. I am not sure if it was my mood while reading or if something could have been condensed for a smoother finish. I did enjoy the read, both for the story and the characters, but just found myself impatient for the end.

Lord of Secrets is a well written historical romance.

Book Review: All Scot and Bothered (Devil You Know) by Kerrigan Byrne

 All Scot and Bothered is the second book in the Devil You Know series by Kerrigan Byrne. You do not need to have read the previous book to enjoy this one, but it will make most of the characters and some of the set up easier to understand and give readers a bigger picture of the dangerous undercurrents of the series.

He is first and foremost—at everything. A man who’s made his own way through ruthless cunning and sheer force of will. A strong and imposing Scot who can turn on the charm but does not suffer fools. His title: Lord Chief Justice of the High Court. His name: Cassius Gerard Ramsay. His mission: To investigate the goings-on at London's most notorious gaming hell, owned and operated by one of the most intriguing and desirable women he’s ever met. Cecelia Teague was an orphan facing a rather dire future—until a secret benefactor from her mother’s scandalous past swept into her life. Sent to a prestigious boarding school and later to university, Cecelia believed high society was at her fingertips...Then, from out of nowhere, she became the inheritor of a gambling establishment. Now Cecelia must live two lives: one as a proper lady who finds herself undeniably drawn to Lord Ramsay and the other as a savvy gaming hell owner trying to save her business from the very same man. He has no idea she is both women...and Cecelia would like to keep it that way. But what happens when consuming passion and escalating danger threaten to reveal the truth?

All Scot and Bothered is a romance that left me with mixed feelings. I liked the set up, and the characters, but something just never hit the mark for me. I really liked Cecelia's character. She was strong, smart, and sweet despite having gone through more than her fair share of trouble. Similarly, Ramsay has had a painful past, and as a result has some blind spots. I liked their banter when they were actually communicating, and their chemistry is off the charts and well done. I really liked that both Ramsay and Cecelia are so focus on protecting others but will admit to being more than a little upset with each of them during various moments in the story. I know there would not be much conflict between them if Ramsay was not so stubborn and blind when he focuses on something, most often the wrong thing. But, between that and Cecelia's crying, which she recognized in herself, I found myself annoyed. I thought the characters ad the larger story elements were very interesting, and I will keep reading the series, I just felt like the execution of the story did not hit my fairly high expectations for the book. I wanted to love it, and I did love some individual aspects of it, but as a whole I liked the read but was left wanting. 

All Scot and Bothered is a good historical romance with strong characters and a nice balance of heat, heart, and danger.

Early Book Review: Best Laid Plaids (Kilty Pleasures) by Ella Stainton

Best Laid Plaids is the first book in the Kilty Pleasures series by Ella Stainton and is currently scheduled for release on August 31 2020. In Scotland, 1928, Dr. Ainsley Graham is cultivating a reputation as an eccentric. Two years ago, he catastrophically ended his academic career by publicly claiming to talk to ghosts. When Joachim Cockburn, a WWI veteran studying the power of delusional thinking, arrives at his door, Ainsley quickly catalogs him as yet another tiresome Englishman determined to mock his life’s work. But Joachim is tenacious and open-hearted, and Ainsley’s intrigued despite himself. He agrees to motor his handsome new friend around to Scotland’s most unmistakable hauntings. If he can convince Joachim, Ainsley might be able to win back his good name and then some. He knows he’s not crazy-- he just needs someone else to know it, too. Joachim is one thesis away from realizing his dream of becoming a psychology professor, and he’s not going to let anyone stop him, not even an enchanting ginger with a penchant for tartan and lewd jokes. But as the two travel across Scotland’s lovely-- and definitely, definitely haunted-- landscape, Joachim’s resolve starts to melt. And he’s beginning to think that an empty teaching post without the charming Dr. Graham would make a very poor consolation prize indeed. 

Best Laid Plaids is a book that left me with mixed feelings. I really liked the set up, the characters, and much of how everything happened. I thought that Ainsley's character was very well done, and I liked how open and directly neuro diversity was handled. I was equally pleased with Joachim's character and the way he dealt with the aftermath of war and trying to figure out his future. I liked that consent was covered, and how honestly the mistakes, concerns, and fears the two of them had were dealt with. I liked the secondary characters as well, and think the balance of personalities was well done. However, for some reason this felt like a very slow read for me. I liked it, but was fully able to put the book down and delay getting back to it without feeling that drive to see what happened next. I am not sure what it was about the style that just did not capture me, because all of the actual story elements worked. It was something in the voice or writing style that I could not connect with, but I cannot put my finger on what it was. I did like the read, it just did not capture me the way I expected it to. 

Best Laid Plaids is a solid romance with several layers to the love story. It had a number of great elements, but never grabbed my attention completely. 

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: Scot Under the Covers (Wild Wicked Highlanders) by Suzanne Enoch

Scot Under the Covers is the second book in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series by Suzanne Enoch, but each book can be read as a stand alone. It is currently scheduled for release on January 28 2020. 

Miranda Harris is known for her charm, wit, and ability to solve any problem she encounters. But when her brother lands neck-deep in gambling debt to a crafty villain and Miranda is subsequently blackmailed into marrying him, she must enlist the help of the devil himself to save the family honor—and herself. Highlander Aden MacTaggert knows next to nothing about the ways of the ton, but he most certainly knows his way around gaming halls and womens’ hearts. Still, Aden is not sure how he’ll manage to find a Sassenach bride in time to save his family’s inheritance. When his almost sister-in-law Miranda comes to him for assistance, he proposes a partnership: She will help him navigate London society and he’ll teach her everything about wagering…and winning back her freedom. The beautiful, clever lass intrigues Aden—but is she playing her own game, or are the sparks between them real? He is accustomed to risking his pocket. But betting on Miranda’s love is a game he can’t afford to lose.

Scot Under the Covers is a wonderful follow up to It's Getting Scot in Here, but I think all fans of historical romance can enjoy even without having read the first in the series. I love that Miranda is confident and capable. She knows the rules and is not out on the hunt for a husband. Aden has much on his mind, but despite being a betting man and hard to fool, has a soft spot for others that might not be getting a fair shake. I loved his softness when it comes to the stray he takes in and the way he is kind to those others tend to ignore or mock. I enjoyed the couple's banter as they went from almost at odds to partners in saving Miranda from an unwanted marriage. Seeing them come to terms with how they felt and being cautious with the other's feelings all while trying to foil Vale lead for a well paced and highly entertaining read.  

Scot Under the Covers is a fun and engaging historical romance. Fans of the author and the genre will enjoy it. 

Book Review: The Governess Affair (Brothers Sinister) by Courtney Milan

The Governess Affair is a prequel novella to the Brothers Sinister series by Courtney Milan. This author has been recommended to me multiple times- so over the holidays I bought the Sinister Brothers box set and have enjoyed every moment of binge reading it has brought me. If you enjoy historical romance with complex characters and conflicts this series is definitely for you.

Three months ago, governess Serena Barton was let go from her position. Unable to find new work, she’s demanding compensation from the man who got her sacked: a petty, selfish, swinish duke. But it’s not the duke she fears. It’s his merciless man of business—the man known as the Wolf of Clermont. The formidable former pugilist has a black reputation for handling all the duke’s dirty business, and when the duke turns her case over to him, she doesn’t stand a chance. But she can’t stop trying—not with her entire future at stake. Hugo Marshall is a man of ruthless ambition—a characteristic that has served him well, elevating the coal miner’s son to the right hand man of a duke. When his employer orders him to get rid of the pestering governess by fair means or foul, it’s just another day at the office. Unfortunately, fair means don’t work on Serena, and as he comes to know her, he discovers that he can’t bear to use foul ones. But everything he has worked for depends upon seeing her gone. He’ll have to choose between the life that he needs, and the woman he is coming to love

The Governess Affair is a story that captured my imagination from the very beginning- and while it resolved itself beautifully, I was left wanting more about all of the characters when it was over. Serena lost her position because of a selfish man. Hugo works for that man but is not blind of his faults- in fact he is much more aware of them than most. In his efforts to make his own future Hugo has done things that he is not proud of, but he has his limits. The battle of wills between Serena and Hugo was very well written- and they way each of their concerns and complications were addressed was as close to perfect as I have ever seen. I have never seen a better handling of consent and trust after abuse- and to see the respect and love this pair developed was lovely. My only problem was that I did not want to leave the characters behind- which was easily solved as I dove into The Duchess War immediately.

The Governess Affair is a lovely prequel that wrapped up well but left me eager for more about the characters. Fine as a stand alone or when read out of order, but I am very glad to read the story in chronological order. I think I have a new must buy author. I have since read most of this series and I recommend them all- including the novellas!

Early Book Review: The Bewildered Bride (Advertisements for Love) by Vanessa Riley

The Bewildered Bride is the fourth book in the Advertisements for Love series by Vanessa Riley. I have not read any of the previous books, but believe that they can all be enjoyed as stand alone reads. This book is currently scheduled for release on August 12 2019.

Ruth Croome, a Blackamoor heiress, was supposed to get married in a gorgeous wedding gown, made from her father’s exquisite fabrics. Instead, they eloped to Gretna Green and upon returning, their carriage was beset by highwaymen and she witnessed the murder of her new husband. Now, four years later, with a child, she wants to move on with her life. A marriage of convenience will do. Ruth already had a love for the ages. Adam Wilky is really the heir to the Wycliff barony—which he never told Ruth. Too much danger. So many secrets. When he was nearly beaten to death and sold into impressment, he thought Ruth had died, too. Ready for revenge, he finally returns and discovers Ruth alive—with a son who could only be his—and she is furious to discover he lied to her. Now it’ll take more than remembered passion if he hopes to win his reluctant wife back.

The Bewildered Bride is a book that takes an honest look at the racism in England's past, and adds so much emotion, corruption, and danger that there is rarely a page that did not have me wondering who would make the next misstep. Ruth has been through hell, and no one seems to believe her. So she deals with the remarks and just strives to make the best life for her son. Adam is finally making things right after the betrayal of family and thinking Ruth dead for four years. The journey of them finding their way together again, despite the danger and deceptions is harrowing but extremely well written. I have to say that I really enjoyed the realism of the family dynamics and especially the final confrontation. I thought the sensitive subjects in the story (rape, abuse) were very well handled and I liked the support and hope that it offers readers through its handling.

The Bewildered Bride is an emotional ride, well worth the read. 

Early Book Review: When a Lady Kisses a Scot (Her Majesty's Most Secret Service) by Tara Kingston

When a Lady Kisses a Scot is the fourth book in the Her Majesty's Most Secret Service series by Tara Kingston. This is the first book I have read in the series, and while there are clearly some carried over characters and relationships this book can be read as a stand alone. 

Rose Fleming has been presumed dead for the last decade. It required leaving everything—and everyone—she loved behind, including MacAllister Campbell. But faking her death allowed her to stay safe until the threat posed by a mysterious villain had passed. Believing it’s finally safe again, she returns...and runs smack into the only man she ever loved. But Rose was wrong and the stalker she escaped years ago still has her in his sights. Ten years ago, Mac mourned the death of the woman he loved. It’s taken years to heal his heart only to discover that not only is Rose still alive, but still in grave danger. Mac can forgive Rose’s deception, but he’d never be able to forgive himself if he didn’t protect her from the evil still stalking her. The only thing worse than losing her once would be losing her again... and he won’t let that happen.

When a Lady Kisses a Scot is a romance that had a great deal happening, but somehow felt like it was missing something. Rose ran for her life as a teen- with little understanding of what she was running from. MacAllister has been working hard and making a difference. Neither of them had forgotten each other from when they met in their youth and only met again by chance as Rose's life is in danger again. I rather liked both characters, and I liked getting to see the story from both of their perspectives.  I thought their personalities, reactions, and banter were all good. I thought that the inner dialogues were good for the most part, but there was just so much mooning about the other that I got to the point where I was skimming some of it waiting for conversations or action to begin again. The mystery and danger surrounding Rose was mixed- some parts were very well done and intriguing while other things just were left vague and with few answers. When the action was happening I was invested and curious about what might be happening next, but I felt like there was too much of some of the unimportant pondered over and over while the critical information was often glossed over or included in passing. It was just such a missed bag for me- what I enjoyed was fantastic, while other moments had me looking to see how much of the book was left.

When a Lady Kisses a Scot is a good historical romance with a lot going on. I think fans of the series will want to pick it up but I would recommend other first time readers check out from the library to see if you enjoy the writing style.

Early Book Review: My Fair Viscount (Scandal Sheet) by Jess Michaels

My Fair Viscount is the fourth book in the Scandal Sheet series by Jess Michaels. You do not have to have read the earlier books to fully enjoy this book, although returning readers will see some past favorites make cameos. It is currently scheduled for release on July 9 2019.

Raised in the rookeries, David Shaw has just inherited his father's fortune and his title. With his rough manners, he will certainly never be accepted by Society, but his cousin offers a solution. One David doesn't like. Miss Rose Higgins has a successful reputation as a comportment teacher to ladies of the Upper Ten Thousand. When she's approached to help the now-infamous new Viscount Shaw, she has no interest in putting herself on the line...until she's made an offer she can't refuse. Neither Rose nor David expect the instant connection which flares between them. Nor the feelings which come from their attraction. But in the end, they are both bound to propriety and there are obstacles in the way that may not be overcome unless they risk everything.

My Fair Viscount is a historical romance about two people with some similar emotional scars and doubts about the future. Rose and David are thrown together in unusual circumstances and make the most of it, in all kinds of ways. I loved Rose's pragmatic and realistic personality. David starts of very guarded, with good reason, and liked watching him grown as a character and find a connection with Rose. I enjoyed the journey with this pair, although it did feel very short, and the only obstacle being weak once they admitted their feelings made it feel even shorter. I kept expecting someone from one of their pasts making an appearance to ruin things, or an illness, or some kind of danger to pop up and make things more challenging- but that never happened. The story worked, and was good for what it was, but I felt like it was missing something that would have made it more suspenseful or engaging. 

My Fair Viscount is a short but sweet romance with a great deal of heart and a bit of heat.