My Viscount’s Madness by Kristina Earl

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This captivating story explores themes of forgiveness, healing, and resilience. The heroine, grappling with her own trauma and an impending forced marriage, connects with the Viscount, who is similarly burdened by the weight of his past. Their shared struggles foster a deep understanding and a powerful alliance against the villainous Lord Evercombe. The author masterfully crafts a strategic and engaging narrative, showcasing the characters' inner strength and their ability to overcome adversity.

Wedded to the Wicked Highlander by Lydia Kendall

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A spirited story of a woman defying expectations. After her husband's death, her domineering brother arranges a marriage for her to a man with a fearsome reputation in the highlands. Determined to avoid another controlling husband, she vows to make her prospective husband's life a misery. However, she soon finds herself captivated by Laird Christian, who is both wickedly charming and surprisingly tender. Their undeniable chemistry ignites a passionate and dangerous romance. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Christian's 'wicked' reputation is a carefully crafted façade, protecting his clan from outside threats. 

Secrecy by Mary Kingwood

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I loved this story. Tess is delightful with a bit of naivety along with years of being overlooked.  All she thinks she wants in life is money and freedom. Yet to get her money, she feels she has to give up her freedom because being married means being subjugated by her husband. The only problem is to get her fortune she has to marry. Edward needs to stop her marriage to Ulric but falls in love with the woman. She is definitely no society maid. These two go back and forth until Tess has some sense literally choked into her. The secrets of the murdered chaplain are now unraveling and still we are no closer to his murderer. Love is in the air but will it be ignored for  fortune or true fortune? Let’s face it! With Tess around nothing will be easy or predictable. Enjoy an adventure of secrets, love, fortune hunting during a murder investigation that gets more puzzling by the moment.

What a Wicked Duke Demands by Emily Honeyfield

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This slow-burn romance features a touch of scandal, primarily driven by Beth's sister's reckless behavior. Despite causing significant embarrassment for the family, her sister continues to sow chaos throughout London. Beth, determined to protect her sister, finds herself embroiled in the drama and ultimately becomes a victim of a mugging. Rescued by a gentleman, Beth impulsively kisses him in gratitude. This unexpected encounter ignites an interest in Gerard, a widowed gentleman known for his reserved demeanor. However, their budding romance is complicated by a shared connection to a past scandal involving Beth's sister. The identity of the man responsible for her sister's downfall is subtly hinted at early on, making the climax less surprising than intended. Nevertheless, the story remains engaging, offering a captivating exploration of how the stoic Gerard navigates the challenges of a scandalous love affair.

The Secret Life of a Sinful Lady: A Historical Regency Romance Novel (Lustful Lords and Ladies) by Emily Honeyfield

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This charming story follows Victoria, a budding playwright who secretly indulges her passion for theater while betrothed to the unfamiliar Lord Bedford. Their paths unexpectedly cross when Lord Bedford, captivated by an unknown lady in the audience, discovers it's Victoria. Intrigued, he embarks on a clandestine courtship, supporting her writing while concealing his identity. Their romance blossoms, but a revelation about Victoria's betrothal shatters her trust. However, her reaction could have been more reasonable considering the expectations of arranged marriages in Regency times. Ultimately, the blame lies with her relatives who, seeking a more advantageous match, withheld the truth. Thomas, however, remains steadfast, desiring Victoria's love to grow organically. Their love story ultimately triumphs, culminating in a grand gesture that seals their fate. This tale, a captivating blend of intrigue and romance, invites readers to fall in love with Victoria and Thomas as they navigate the complexities of love and social expectations.

Healing the Brooding Duke's Heart: A Historical Regency Romance Novel (Noble Gentlemen of the Ton) by Bridget Barton

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I like the story of Amelia and Simon. Simon was trustworthy and always looked out for Amelia's best interests. He was attracted to her and intrigued by her wit, intelligence, and grace. He befriends her since he always wants to be in her company. This is how true love begins. We see each other for who they truly are, and Simon and Amelia are excellent examples of this type of love. The intricate narrative and the vile Earl of Bowden are only two of the numerous twists in this love story, which also includes Simon's background and Amelia's uncle. The book is engaging and definitely worth reading, as I nearly lost track of the concerns.
 

Once Upon an Ancient Curse: A Retelling of Little Red Riding Hood by Michelle Miles

Rating: 

Red is supposed to be a skilled bowman in this version of Red Riding Hood, yet she never takes a good shot until the very end. There are werewolves, wolves, and a dire wolf who were once human. The plot to break the curse is a little bizarre, and it didn't hold up well in the dramatic finale. If the climactic finale had not been so pointless, the tale would have been much better, but there were some terrific action scenes. It's okay for an afternoon read. 

 

My Viscount's Enduring Love by Kristina Earl

Rating: ⭐⭐

This story initially captivated me with the intriguing premise of Edgar, seeking a unconventional partner, encountering the brilliant and unconventional Lucy Belgrave. Their idyllic retreat to Aunt Margaret's country estate, where they collaborate in the laboratory, fostered a genuine connection. However, the novel's potential was squandered by a repetitive narrative. Lucy, a victim of her condescending parents' attempts to marry her off, and her controlling fiancé, grapples with societal expectations. Edgar, determined to win her back, embarks on a predictable campaign to showcase her scientific brilliance. Unfortunately, this strategy dominates the latter portion of the book, becoming tedious and repetitive. Ultimately, Edgar's actions create a scandal he wanted to avoid, undermining his efforts and leaving this reader thinking he should have done all of this in the first place.

Lead Me Into Temptation (Gold Dust Brides Book 1) by Devon McKay

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Although, this mail order bride story has a unique plot twist. These two have no respect for or are willing to honor the agreement to the mail order bride contract. In fact, the author completely ignores that fact all through the story as these two wander far from home and to a wild west mining town nicknamed"Hangtown". There are no repercussions for their behavior from the wronged party. In fact, both Garrett and Violet irritated me throughout the whole story. These two deserve each other for the selfish creatures that they are. All Garrett cares about is what he can get for himself and Violet's attitude is to find her father regardless of who she swindles or hurts. In fact, Garrett should have tied her up when he found her the first time and dropped her off at his father's ranch. Instead, well, you'll have to read the book.
 

An Arranged Marriage with a Cruel Earl (Marriage Mart Scandals Book 2) by Amanda Stones

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Despite the arranged nature of their marriage, Emmeline yearns for a genuine connection with Andrew, a marriage built on shared interests and perhaps even love. While initially aloof, Andrew displays unexpected moments of kindness and concern, leaving Emmeline both intrigued and confused. A palpable sense of unease pervades the estate, a 'darkness' that intensifies with the arrival of his unsettling cousins. As Andrew's mother falls ill and Emmeline stumbles upon clues to a hidden treasure, they are drawn into a shared investigation. The intricate plot, filled with unexpected twists, kept me captivated.The mystery deepened far beyond what I initially anticipated. The true villain and their connection to Andrew's past were a shocking revelation. This is a riveting read for anyone who enjoys a blend of historical romance and thrilling mystery.