Annie (The Brides of San Francisco #2) by Cynthia Woolf

This is a very poignant story. Annie is as stubborn as Nick. Nick loves this woman, but she won't marry him, because she wants her father's blessing. To be honest, Annie wants to make her own choices, but in her heart she always needs her father's approval. It wasn't about her faith in God, but what her own father believed. If it wasn't for the Nick's love for Annie, this relationship would never had a chance.

His Stubborn Sweet Bride: A Christian Historical Romance Novel by Chloe Carley

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
First, I have to say that this is some very good writing.The whole premise of the story is just wrong. An Englishman raised man running a ranch in Colorado and a woman who is desperate to runaway from a man who conned her. The only thing I don't get in the book, was when Nate found time to start falling in love with Maggie. She conned and lied her way into his house, then left when the guilt got too much for her. All I felt from Nate the whole time is anger, we only found out he felt desire for her when she was standing on the steps all cleaned up, and that was at the end of the book. My only wish is the author spent a little more time on the cold fish, Nate. It would have helped the flow of the story better.

Rev My Engine by Maggie Kane

First, this is an erotica novel. Although, it is surprising good. Garret has certain tastes in sex and Maggie has never experienced such things. Garret is willing to fix her car for seven hundred dollars, although it cost three thousand for dinner with him. The two of them hit it off and so begins a very steamy relationship. I found the relationship one sided, because Garret seemed to care more for Maggie than Maggie did for him.

Wish: Aladdin Retold (Romance a Medieval Fairytale #10) by Demelza Carlton

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a fairy tale in reverse. Aladdin is the innocent and the princess is a courtesan for her father's alliances.The story follows the original with a few twists and turns. A street rat, trying to keep his virtue until his wedding night is funny. I loved this retelling and I must say that the royalty in this version are vicious, including the princess.

A Convenient Risk by Sara R. Turnquist

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really enjoyed this story, but at times I felt there was something missing. This is a marriage of convenience for Brandon and Sarah. Sarah gets a stable home for her and her son and Brandon gets her dead husband's cattle. It seemed that Sarah was always holding something back, even when she realized that she loved Brandon and wanted to make the marriage real. It's was strange for me, because I could always see and feel Brandon's character, but not Sarah's. I kept thinking Sarah if you feel this way about Brandon, why don't you make your family a family? In the end, we discover why. This story will pain you at times, and just when you think things have turned a corner, something else is thrown into mix.

A Christmas Surprise: A Regency Romance by Emily Murdoch

A valet and a baron's daughter is an interesting choice for a romance. Although the writing of tale is good and filled with a small surprise, the story is unbelievable for that time period. The truth is they would have had to elope and lived in squalor. He would have been blacklisted and never been able to work as a valet again. As such, I put this delightful tale down as a fairy tale.

A Convenient Darcy Marriage by Rebecca Preston

This book is okay. Elizabeth lacks the fire and passion from Jane Austen's version, and Darcy is not quite the gentleman that is portrayed. The author skims over the story and is not really different from the original. The plot is the same, except Mr. Darcy agrees on his second meeting of Elizabeth to court her so she doesn't have to wed Mr. Collins. I felt I was reading a Cliff Note version of "Pride and Prejudice".

Returned by Jane Hinchey

This type of book is usually short and more of an erotica book than a romance. This book is a full length novel and describes the world that Sierra has entered into. Earth is dystopian in the near future and aliens are among us. I love the relationship between Alrik and Sierra, it is based on respect and admiration of the other. It seems everyone has secrets and as we learn about what happened to earth, some of these secrets are revealed. I really liked this story and I got intrigued as I got deeper into the story. The only thing I disliked was I never did learn who these Quarantine people are, except they like to dissect people and control the people under the dome.

BLOOD PROMISE by Jacey Ward

This is an interesting read, a combination of horror, erotic romance and suspense. The story is stilted in sections, and the flow isn't as smooth as it could be. The idea and the story are good. The characters don't hold the depth I like, but for the shortness of the story, it is more of an hour before bed kind of read.

Seaside Kisses (Seaside Hunters #4) by Stacy Claflin

 Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a great little romance. These two characters grow together well and each character is well developed. The story and plot were well thought out and written to keep you in the book. I love how these two develop this relationship.

Hope's Watch (Safe Harbors #1.5) by Donna K. Weaver

This book is about waiting to find out about what happened to the ones that were rescued after a boat was captured by pirates. The emotions that are unraveled as the waiting to hear about those that were taken by the pirates. Elle waits while her family comes to gather around her. Malcolm is the spokesman for Lyn's family, but he is drawn to Elle. For a novella, the emotions felt by these characters are very deep.

Bear Witness (Bear Wardens #1) by Scarlett Grove

This book is typical of the Fate Mountain bears. Something bad will happen, in this case murder. Bear shifter meets woman and recognizes her as his mate. Girl resists, then gets steamy. Danger comes to their door, and they solve the problem. Girl stays with bear shifter in Fate Mountain. I like these books, because they are all novella length and make for a happy afternoon read.

Blossom and the Beast (The Alder Tales #1) by R.S. McCoy

**SPOILER ALERT**
I was loving this story. The depth and creation of this world and its character is breathtaking. The interaction between the main characters draws you into the story. The ending left me cold and angry. I know there is another book in this series, but it's supposed to be about the niece. Continuing Blossom's and Beast's story in Raene's book seems like it will take away from Raene's story, so I am greatly disappointed for I am a fan that a book should stand on its own, even it is part of a series.This book would have been a 5 star masterpiece if not for the ending.

Once Upon a Star (Star Lake #2) by Lorana Hoopes

I enjoyed this short story. Audrey needs someone like Blake to help her through this transitioning period. Her mother and father, although they help her with money, are not compassionate people and think now that Audrey is back, they can run her life. Blake is everything Audrey needs and more, and he does not disappoint.

Make Me a Marchioness (Redeeming the Rakes Book 4) by Gemma Blackwood

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book was excellent. The characters are all well developed. The interaction between the Marquess and Julia is compelling, yet they both try to keep things proper between them. The past never stays in the past and soon it is at Julia's doorstep or in this case the Marquess of Chiltern's. I loved how the Marquess overcame the obstacles to claim Julia. Well worth the read.

A Rogue for a Lady (The Duke's Daughters Book 1) by Rose Pearson

This story is well handled. Amelia and Arthur are good together. This story reminds us why secrets between lovers are dangerous. Amelia is brainless and or "feather-headed" in this book, because she believes a man who sneaks around Arthur's house instead of asking the man she loves. He introduces himself in a park instead of waiting for a proper introduction while Arthur has been nothing but a gentleman to Amelia. The only sister of the quartet that seems to have a brain in her head is the second sister, Harmonia. I am looking forward to her story.

Scandalous Virtue (The Saint of Seven Dials 0) by Brenda Hiatt

This book is just good fun and a wonderful tale between two people who just need each other. The characters are lovable and fun. You hope the two can at least find a happy medium. You'll enjoy this story as much as I did.

Tempting A Marquess for Christmas (Steamy Regency Romance #5) by Georgette Brown

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book is rather risque and is not your normal romance. The story is good and the Marquess seems caught in own making. Mildred is independent in thought and sometimes a little impulsive. She doesn't believe the standard marriage is for her because of her proclivities, but understand her standing in society rather well. This book is not for light-hearted reader and deals with rather dark passions. Georgette Brown goes beyond steamy.

Of Cinder and Madness (Once Upon a Darkened Night Book 1) by Nicole Zoltack

** spoiler alert ** Maybe it was the darkness of the novel or the fact that there is no happy ending. True love doesn't exist here, and the stepmother's love that the author tried to convey, only came out as a desperate woman trying to find a way to hide an impossible problem. All her problems go away by permanently locking Ella in another dimension. She even gets a third husband out it. I felt something was lost in the story telling.

As Deep as the Ocean by Serenity Woods

I really enjoyed this story. Mac loves the vineyard and Winifred and her sisters inherited the vineyard. Mac spends much of the book in shame of what his father had done to the vineyard. Winifred really likes Mac, but can't get over what his father has done. Mac marries Winifred so she can get the money for the inheritance. Even though they agreed to a marriage of convenience, Mac doesn't want to let go. You'll love the interaction between these two and Winifred's quirky sisters.

Brides of Honor: Mail Order Bride by Christian Michael

I enjoyed the first 5 stories of this set. The widow series after it were just okay. There good for a quick read waiting in line. The widow series books were not too deep, but the Brides of Honor went deeper than normal mail order brides series. Hope James was my favorite story.

A Lady of High Regard (Ladies of Liberty #1) by Tracie Peterson

I really enjoyed this book. Mia honored her parents, but wanted to help the seamen's wives. Gregory is charming, and understands Mia. Their relationship seems doomed to friendship for the longest time in this book. You'll enjoy this story and and will end up rooting for Gregory.

Azlo (Weredragons of Tuviso #2) by Maia Starr

I don't know what the author was thinking, but she didn't study aerodynamics. Nine foot man with five foot wingspan would never get off the ground. The play between the characters was good, except it got a little flaky near the end. The story has potential, but seems to have missed the mark. It's okay for an afternoon read.

A Charming Cavalryman for Clementine: A Historical Romance Novel Based on True Events by Hanna Hamilton

This book is a full length novel with very detailed events. This includes dresses, houses, and the battles that take place in Crimea. I found the illustrated pictures interesting and only took me a moment to realize how they related to the story. Both main characters are charming and lovable.  This is a story that will stay with you, and make you route for Stirling and Clementine.

A Michaelmas Wager by Emily Murdoch

This is a delightful tale of where misplaced friendships can take you. You might find the love of your life and lose it to stupidity. The wager brings Rufus to meeting Juliana. Rufus discovers that Juliana is what Rufus desires in a woman and regrets his wager. Of course, Juliana finds out after she falls in love with Rufus. I was delighted with Rufus from the moment we meet him, and knew that his friendship with these particular men were not his friends. Juliana is your poor society girl and hangs on the tails of her cousin at these society affairs. She never thought or cared if anyone took notice of her at these affairs. So Rufus is a surprise when he introduces himself to her and then comes calling.

Dixon (Stratham Shifters Book 6) by Sarah J. Stone

This is the first book I've read in the series, and the story was enjoyable. Dixon is a down and out shifter who can't shift and Melody is a healing elf. Melody escapes her uncle and lands in the human world on top of her mate. Melody is the balm to Dixon's soul, and his lion is ready to come out and protect Melody. You'll like seeing these two grow and the power that comes from two being one.

Unexpected Earl (Hearts and Ever Afters) by Joyce Alec

Rating:  ⭐
This story unsettled me, as I realized what was going on. The way that the Earl put the announcement in the newspaper pretty much ruining Catherine if she did not marry him. I don't care how much he claimed to love me and wanted to prevent me from marrying the wrong man. I would never marry a man that could harm me in that way. This scenario is dangerous and it was not romantic. This is the first Joyce Alec book that has truly disappointed me.

Second Chance Ranch (Three Rivers Ranch #1) by Liz Isaacson

This story started out stilted, but with Kelly coming back to the ranch to do the books. She was the one who spurned him in high school. It felt right that it was stilted. The story eases into a different kind of relationship between Squire and Kelly. It grows beyond friendship to romance and a new understanding. There are times I feel sorry for Squire, but the next thing I know, he does something absolutely male stupid. It's one of my favorites in this series.

Third Time's the Charm (Three Rivers Ranch #2) by Liz Isaacson

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I understand a veteran's discomfort of the scars he carries, whether they are physical or heart deep. Healing can only begin when we see past the scars to the person inside. This is Chelsea and how she treats Pete. Love is what heals can heal these two and how they see each other. I loved this book.

Lucky Number Thirteen (Three Rivers Ranch Romance Book 10) by Liz Isaacson

When I first met Tanner Wolf, the only thing I wanted to do was slap him for the way he treated women. After his tragic rodeo accident, Tanner seems to change. His nurse Summer is a peaceful soul and seems to calm the inner man. My heart broke for Summer, but I understood Tanner's choices. This book is about sacrifices and what will you sacrifice for family and love.

Christmas in Three Rivers (Three Rivers Ranch #6.1-6.5) by Liz Isaacson

This book contains 4 short stories that are all very good and each deserve their own review.

The Ninth Inning:  This is the story of Andrea and Lawrence. This story is sometimes humorous and sometimes its a little hard on the heart. It's going to take humility to make this relationship work. I've been waiting for Andrea's story, ever since I've started reading the Three River series.

Ten Days in Town: This is Sandi's and Tad's story. Sandi is the owner of the cafe and Tad is her brother's friend. They have ten days to decide if they can  make a relationship work. This story will make you smile.

Eleven Year Reunion: Grace comes to town to help Heidi finally open her bakery. She meets Jonathan, her high school sweetheart from eleven years ago. I like the play between Grace and Jonathan, although Jonathan gets stuck in his head. I kind of wished this story could have been longer. These two need more depth.

The Twelfth Town: This is Taryn and Kenny's story. Taryn is a newscaster and is hiding in Three Rivers to decide what she wants from her life. Enters Kenny, a friend and confidant to all females, except with Taryn the sparks fly.  This relationship starts a a true friendship and fans itself to love. You know this is the foundation to most marriages, and probably why I liked this story best.

Marked Descendant (Descendants #2) by L.D. Goffigan

I haven't read the first book, but that doesn't take away from reading this book. It stands alone by itself and this story is self contained. The story is well written and the relationship between Alaric and Naomi is well defined. This book also goes to show the value of good communication between a couple. Relationships get off track if you can't communicate honesty and truth with your other half. Naomi over does the I'm my own person thing and Alaric does what his nature dictates and that's to over protect. With the danger that is going all around them, this could get one of the killed. This is a good story and I am sure the first book and the rest of the series will be just as good.

Leaving Waverly by Sara R. Turnquist

This is the story of two injured souls. Henry is smothered at his home when he comes back from the war. Claire trys to help the newly freed slaves, but her mother and father continue to smother her freedom. Claire's heart of compassion goes against the former slave owner her father and she falls for Henry with his compassionate nature. This book has a surprise twist in the climax and is well worth reading.

Freeze (Midnight Ice #2) by Kaitlyn Davis

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book is as good as book one. Pandora escapes her prison and looks for answers. The answers she finds aren't what she expected, but at least now she knows what she is. Pandora is as stubborn and as spunky as she ever was with compassion that is very deep. I like how she lays it out for Jackson. I suspected what Sam was, but didn't imagine that scenario. Looking forward to Book Three.

Frost (Midnight Ice #1) by Kaitlyn Davis

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an energy packed book. All of the characters are engaging and Pandora is lovable from the first page to the last. What Pandora bears is kept a mystery, but it weighs upon her soul. Her heart is one of compassion and it seems to get her in a lot of trouble. Unfortunately, it is love that is her undoing. Looking forward to book two.

Rax (Rathier Warriors) (A Sci Fi Alien Abduction Romance) by Stella Sky

This is the first time I've actually seen one of these guys have compassion. I won't give away the surprise ending, but it seemed a little too easy. I'm glad for Zina, because a real relationship actually bloomed here. Instead of falling for her captor, she falls for her savior. Love is definitely in the the air. This is the best that I've read of the series so far.

The First Lady of Three Rivers Ranch (Three Rivers Ranch #7) by Liz Isaacson

The attraction between these two is undeniable, but Heidi has a plan and it doesn't include Frank. At the end of the summer, Heidi must decide between her career or her heart. I love the way Heidi changes the ranch over the summer to an actual home for the ranch hands. Frank realizes that Heidi is what he needs to make this ranch into his dream. I also love the way Heidi and Frank interact with each other.

Highland Deception by Meggan Connors

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One twin a laird to his people. The other is banished from his clan lands. Ten years later, Kenneth is called to his brother's bedside in the middle of the night. In the morning, Kenneth becomes Malcolm. This includes Malcolm's wife, Isobel. This story is intriguing which includes Kenneth falling in love with Isobel. For Isobel, she wonders over the change in Malcolm and begins to actually fall in love with her husband. Join Kenneth as he takes back his life, warms your heart in the spirit of the highlands.

Love, a Duke at Christmas: A Regency Romance Christmas Collection (Regency Collections Book 7) by Arietta Richmond, Katherine Keats, Kelly Anne Bruce, Regina Darcy, Gemma Blackwood, Grace Austen, Eleanor St Clair, Alyce Healey , Lenora Levon, Isabella Thorne

This is a collection of eleven short stories by eleven bestselling authors. Each story is delightful for the Christmas season. I particularly love "Kissing the Duke of Hearts" by Arrietta Richmond and "The Duke's Christmas Bride by Isabella Thorne.

Christmas with You (Stewart Island #4) by Tracey Alvarez

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book is hot! Carly and Kip's relationship sizzles from the first page. Kip is not you typical trolling bartender and is certainly relationship worthy. Carly needs a man that is steady, but she's not sure about Kip because of his relationship with his parents. You'll enjoy this story as Kip embarks on making Christmas good for Carly with his six missions.

A Lost Baby for the Widowed Bride (Frontier Babies and Brides #7) by Faith Johnson

I really liked this story. It didn't follow the typical mail order bride story. It also dealt with the pain of both the couples, instead of just from the bride's view point. You get a sense of the complete picture long before the characters actually come to the same point. You love both Rebecca and Cliff and the twins.

Sarah (Wilder West #2) by Kay P. Dawson

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐
This book is what happens to foolish young teenagers who think they know what they are doing. Instead of doing the sensible thing and writing her sister if she knew the man she was corresponding with if he was a decent man. She shows up at the train station with the ticket Hank bought her, and because her sister couldn't show up they sent Jake. He's the one who broke her heart when she visited her sister last time. To get Sarah out of the situation, Jake has to marry Sarah and loses his stud stallion. Needless to say, this is not a way to start a marriage. These two are not emotionally stable and even if it is an HEA, these two won't make it past the dreaded year seven unless they both serious grow up.

Do Not Tell Me No (Intrepid Women #1) by Kathryn Jane

This is the first book, I have read by this author. This book was confusing at first, but I started to follow when I realized what game the security company was playing. Cassandra is a very independent woman and she came out bratty and spoiled at times. Gage is your typical male, when it comes to attraction. It's why he messed up the first extraction of Cassandra in Vegas. This book spent more time on the attraction and relationship between these two and sometimes the story gets lost, then suddenly it catches up. The book didn't grab me as some suspense books, so I was able to read it in many sessions before I actually finished it.

Hearts of Trust by Ellie St. Clair

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really enjoyed this story. It is sort of a romp although it does cover several serious issues of the upper class. Sophie is sweet when she is not being chased and frightened by her so called cousin, the Earl. Benjamin recognizes his failures after his father banishes him to an estate that is failing and far from the family. One is his failure in mathematics and enlists Sarah the maid (Sophie) to help reconcile the books when he learns she know how to do math. This leaves two with too much time together alone, and of course they grow fond of each other. Benjamin invites some of his old friends to the new estate, guess who, and Sophie has to search her heart to see if she can trust Benjamin. I find myself chagrined at Sophie at times, but in the end she does not disappoint.  

The Lady and The Rake: Regency Romance by Agnes Forest

The back to back pose describes the attitude of these two from the start of the book. Unfortunately, both try to hide their attraction to each other. As Selina begins her new life as a companion she learns to like Alex. You'll enjoy the banter between these two and how Alex is always trying to make sure Selina is not misunderstanding him. Lets face it, the interfering neighbors are not helping.