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Rise of the Defender: A Medieval Romance (de Lohr Dynasty Book 2) by Kathryn Le Veque

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This is an epic story. It has it all. Just when you think things have settled, a new twist is introduced. Navigating the Engli...

Sunday, August 26, 2018

The Betrothed Cutter's Creek, Book 7 By: Vivi Holt,

I reviewed this story on Audible.

I loved the story about Charlotte and Harry both of them had s lot of growing to do. They manage that by traveling to America then west on the wagon train. The one thing that disappointed me was the narrator,. The first time he used Charlotte’s voice, I broke out in laughter. It grew on me as the story continued, I heard better women’s voices done by male narrators. When I wasn’t distracted by the voice I was really into the story.

Saturday, August 25, 2018

Betting on a Lady's Heart: Sweet and Clean Regency Romance (His Majesty's Hounds Book 14) by Arietta Richmond

This story is a little surprising, but the makeup for this story has been done before. Clarisse is young and just learning the art of courting when she comes upon Gervaise who lives next door. He is kind and gentlemanly, but she has heard rumors of his betting. Her father asks an Earl, son of his friend, to court Clarisse. She finds him cool and aloof, but also gentlemanly. What Clarisse doesn't know is the games the nobility play to get what they want. The Earl takes advantage of Clarisse's naivety to get Gervaise out of the way. The twists this story takes will make you dizzy, but it is worth it in the end.



A Duke's Promise by Joyce Alec

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I fell in love with Sophia and Matthew, but this story contains some really ugly things about Sophia's brother and his wife. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, but I felt the punishment for the Viscount and his wife was too light of a punishment. It is well written and entertaining as Matthew begins to see the light that is
Sophia Weston.

The Other You (Heart of Africa) by Marion Ueckermann

This is an amazing story of love, faith and a mistaken identity. We watch an amazing journey through the wine fields of South Africa unfold, because a winemaker can't let go of a photographer, because she looks so much like his dead wife. I felt I was missing something important at the beginning of the story, and I was right. The author keeps the secret til climax of this story and you won't want to miss it!

Strictly Professional (Strictly Professional) by Sherri Hayes

This is a hot story with very hot characters. Between the suspense and the intensity of the characters I actually had to stop reading to cool off. Matthew and Cali will draw you in, while you try to figure out why someone is targeting Cali's Dad and now herself.

Her Alpha Mismatch (Matchmaker Book 3) by Emilia Hartley

Although this story is filled with action and lots of paranormal creatures, Emilia Hartley continues to bring a light humor to her stories. This one is no different, but the fox shifter aspect is quite enlightening and funny. To match a fox with a bear is quite a stretch, but it makes for a humorous story.

I Call Your Name (Living Praise #1) by Sherman Cox

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐
This story is about the Gospel group, "Living Praise", and how God can work a revival in a group that is falling apart. I found this book standard Christian fair. Although I enjoyed the story, I felt a sort of disconnection from the characters. This story is great to pass the time and learn how God can revive our lives.

Lady Charlotte's Marquess (The Heir and a Spare #2) by Fiona Miers

The intensity of the main characters doesn't come together until near the end of the story. They are always aloof to one another until the day Charlotte give her requirements for a husband. One of the gentleman remarks that Archibald meets all of her requirements. For this story to really work, the scene at the townhouse should not have happened. I felt kind of cheated after reading that scene. Over all the story was well-written but the plot really wasn't working for me.

Thursday, August 23, 2018

The Billionaire's Fake Marriage (A Fake Marriage Romance): Crystal Beach Resort Series Book 1 by Hanna Hart

The age old will decree's son must marry to inherit. At times the book is funny, but seriously this charade is dangerous. I understand the woman was homeless, but to lie about her son to get the job, what did she expect would happen. Marrying someone for money is a dangerous game and someone is always going to get hurt. Although well written, the plot itself is dangerous and I almost didn't finish reading it.

The Obscure Duchess of Godwin Hall: A Historical Regency Romance Novel by Hanna Hamilton

For Hanna Hamilton, this is a very dark novel. The pain of having to marry the brother of the man you love, the murder of the Duke and knowing that somehow all of this is your fault brings Rebecca to life. Rebecca is not obscure, even if that is what the title implies. Rebecca is recognized only that her parents will not listen to a thing the woman says. It is ony when Rebecca takes steps to free Andrew does this woman come to take charge of her future.

Mated to the Claws: An MC Bear Shifter Romance by Laura Wylde

All I am going to say is two bad guys don't make for a good story. To be honest, the writing was weak.

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

The Disgruntled Groom by Emily Waters

This book I found on AXP and got off of Bookfunnel.

Julia Gray is a spoiled socialite who goes west with her sister, because their father lost everything after the war. She contracts to marry Mr. Stephen Lodge, but nothing Julia does seems to make Mr. Lodge happy. Everything that happens seems to be a misunderstanding between them, but to be honest the groom didn't seem all that willing like not getting her at the station when he said he would. He could have sent someone else in his place when one of the animals required his immediate attention. Even after that misunderstanding, the groom was off putting and Julia was unhappy and made it quite clear from the way she acted towards Stephen. To be honest, I'm not sure how these two fell in love with other considering the communication problems between the two. I wasn't impressed.

Werewolves Only (Crescent City Wolf Pack, #1) by Carrie Pulkinen

This is an exciting series, and the author brings this Werewolf Pack to life with her insight. Who knew werewolves had so many rules and traditions, and only firstborns could become werewolves. "Fated mates" are rare for Alphas because they have to be mated to take control of a pack. This story is packed full of surprises and each surprise gives you an insight to this supernatural world. Macey and Luke are electric together.

Ciaran's Bond: A Scottish Time Travel Romance (Highlander Fate Book 3) by Stella Knight

I enjoyed the walk back in time, but after three books I'm still confused as how this time travel thing works. Also I couldn't believe Ciaran's brother would wait 4 weeks before sending Ciaran to the gallows. Although the rescue was great, it really lacked the in depth writing one would expect for such a rescue. At points the book left me flat, but then would up lift me to continue reading.

Monday, August 20, 2018

Winning her Hand (Forbidden Love Novella #7) by Bree Wolf

You ever read a novel that the world is upside down? If he pursues her he loses her, if he doesn't he could gain her, but still lose her. What I don't get is why a woman thinks her mother should arrange a marriage when her mother is dead? I think the Earl should have checked Winifred's sanity, even if was in love with her. Imagine a marriage with Winifred's thinking? I don't want to, but the story is well written, despite the scary heroine.

Box Set Women's Fiction: "Breathing on Her Own" "Atonement for Emily Adams" "Casting the First Stone" ("Blessed Sellers" Women's Fiction Book 1) by Rebecca Waters (Goodreads Author), Susan Lawrence , Lisa Lawmaster Hess

These stories are powerful and full of God's love. One made me cry in sadness and joy, while others made me contemplate my life and where I am in God's plan. Each has it's own story to tell, and each with a unique message, but all three tell us that love is what sustains us.

A Cold Winter's Love by Natalie Dean

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐
This the first book I've read in this series. It is on the last leg of the Oregon trail. The descriptions of the what these settlers had to endure. The bits of information at the beginning of each chapter set you for what was to come on the trail. The decisions these four made at the end of the trail will surprise you. While I read this book, I felt like I was on the Oregon trail. Although, at points the book can become quite dry. I'm sure there are moments of boredom even for these settlers.

Love on Her Own Terms: A Mail Order Bride Historical Western Romance Book by Carol Colyer

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐
I found Kathleen to be very spoiled and for just to agree to marry a man after she finds out that he abducted her from his brother is pathetic, Especially after she escaped marrying a man thirty years her senior. Any situation this woman found herself in from then on was her own doing. Dan was beyond generous in having her in his home after what his brother had done. Personally, he should have put her back on the train to Boston, after he got her marriage to his brother annulled. For Dan to fall in love with Kathleen was a tragedy in of itself. I rate this story as three because the writing and the plot of story were well written, however Kathleen as a character inspired me to say take that you deserve every unhappiness and unfortunate thing that comes your way.

Monday, August 13, 2018

A Viscount in Love (Lords of London Book 4) by Emma Evans

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
We are introduced to Stephen Larchmont in the first book of this series. He comes back to London 2 years later to find the women who promised him she would wait already betrothed. He makes a plan to get her back by courting her sister Grace. This plot make me think very little of this Viscount. Grace knew about his plan, but enjoyed the courting because other men started to notice her. I don't hold this against her because she was a wallflower. She also tried to make the Viscount see that her sister isn't what she portrays. This happens the day that Sarah attacks Grace and she goes to meet Stephen at the ball with scratches on her neck. This story at times made me angry because of all the evil games that women sometimes play. Sarah in trying to destroy Grace in Stephen's eyes, actually destroyed Stephen's love for Sarah, and found that Grace is exactly as name suggests.

Lady Josephina's Secret (Almack's Assembly Rooms Book 2) by Agnes Forest

I loved this story about a secret authoress and duke's heir who is a painter. They find themselves attracted to each other at Almack's, but one brother tries to keep them apart so he can keep himself in the lime light. It's unbelievable the lengths some people go, but in the end love always wins.

Rancher's Heart by Ruby Hill

This story is about a woman who thinks the worst of her new husband before she has all the facts. It doesn't help her husband is shy and doesn't talk much. The story is well-developed and spends time developing the relationship between Clara and Robert. It has a surprising twist and I enjoyed reading this story.

Tales of Unexpected Love: A Historical Regency Romance Collection by Bridget Barton

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved or liked each of these stories. Each one is a tale of a woman who finds love unexpectedly. She was not looking, but it found her anyway. "A Lady for the Brazen Earl" is my favorite. You can find my individual review for each book under the name of the story.

A Lady for the Brazen Earl by Bridget Barton

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved this story. It is about change, but not really about social reform. It is about a change of heart and how we look at the world, and especially if we start looking at it through the eyes of love. I love Imogen and the passion and fire that she exhibits for her cause. I love Heath for his wit and his passion to know Imogen, especially when he realizes he may have been going about things the wrong way. The change in his views is a profound one and causes him to rebel against his mother for the first time in his life. Each character is well-written and brought to life on the page.

Saturday, August 11, 2018

A Bride for the Betrayed Earl by Bridget Barton

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Amazing, I loved this book. The speech had a Jane Austen quality to it. Through out the book I imagined Hunter and Emily like stiffs in public but free when they were together alone. Rose her sister has a fine quality of China to her character, and a sweetness that even Hunter knew would be the woman she would become. The villains of this piece are empty creatures and you can truly send your boos out at them. From the ashes, because you can truly build something more beautiful.

A Governess for the Brooding Duke by Bridget Barton

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a delightful tale about a woman who loses everything and becomes a governess to a duke and his two unwanted wards. This tale can become dark at times, and is mostly told from Georgette's point of view. The Duke is very unlikable at first til we understand the pain that he lives in. Georgette has a heart of gold and she is a turn the other cheek kind of person. Love understands and is patient and with time it can heal deep seated pain.

Never Let Go (Lazarus Rising #1) by Cynthia Eden

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The full extent of the realization of this story impacted me greatly. It held my attention that someone could bring someone back to life by some DNA formula process. The reality of Elizabeth Parker had created made her realize she just might be Dr. Frankenstein. Where this story takes us is fantastic, but frightening. What our good Elizabeth failed to realize is her supervisor and owner of the research company are the true evil in this story. It is well written and well-thought out. The plot grabs you and keeps you focused to its climatic conclusion.

Spring Rose: Mail Order Bride by Natalie Dean

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I enjoyed this story. It is kind of a reverse mail order bride. Mary who was a mail order bride decides to order a mail order groom to help maintain her ranch after her husband dies. This is a story of self doubt and learning to open your heart after all your hopes have died. 

I received this book from Hanna Hart. I cannot find the link on Amazon, so this will only be on my blog and Goodreads.

The Beast: A Scifi Alien Romance by Jenny Foster

This story is about a mystery going on while we find about the hidden race, the Syren. I hate the explanation they give for what happens to Mia in the end. It absolutely ruins the end of the book, because it is so feeble, and it gives the idea of soul possession. This is for a paranormal romance, not a scifi romance. These romances are for aliens, future worlds, and made up technology. The plot was well thought up, but the writing made no sense at times. Remind me, that I never want to be on earth in this author's world. It is that bad.

Friday, August 10, 2018

War and Love by Winter Renshaw

This is not my normal repertoire, but the description intrigued me when Hidden Gems asked me to review. I find the premise actually awful, and how someone thinks they are above the law and hires someone to marry his ex-wife to get out of alimony is insane. I kept wondering how the author was going to write her way to a happily ever after including going through all the legal issues this story brings up. I am pleasantly surprised but the characters at times left me wanting, especially Jude Warner. Admit it! Jude Warner was a dirt bag for taking the offer in the first place.

A Perfect Weakness by Jennifer A. Davids

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This story is based on the scripture, 2 Corinthian 2:19. I found John's character overdid the God will never forgive me, but Penelope was the beauty and perfection that can come from redemption. These two character are polar opposites, but they are brought together to show that no one is beyond redemption. I love the power and the emotions brought to these two characters, and the emotions of those around them, and how they are effected. Each character has his or her own story and it is wrapped into the fabric of the story bringing a powerful and emotional story to the reader.

Lawfully Freed: Inspirational Christian Contemporary: A S.W.A.T. Lawkeeper Romance by Ginny Sterling

This is basically a story of a woman returning home and attending her high school reunion. She finds the boy that she ignored has grown into a wonderful man. He has always loved her and waited for her to return home. It's kinda of sweet, but a little creepy. The characters are well developed and are lovable. The villain of this piece is just a little over the edge, and frightening.

His Steel City Promise (Colorado City Series Book 3) by Emilee Harris

This is the third book in this series, and it is about William who we find is the Dukes' and Lucy's secret baby. This story finds William finding out exactly who he is and how he reacts to the information. I found Will's reaction to the news somewhat childishness for a twenty-six year old. His reactions to Mila Santiago come from knowing the secret of his birth, and he handles the situation with a maturity and grace that cannot be found in most men. This story is as well written as the first two and cradles itself as a well fit into the trilogy.

A Duke's Promise by Caren Jay

I don't remember how I got this book, but the author is not on Amazon. She should be because the book is a delightful tale. Jane's father has died and the new heir is a spiteful and mean man who spreads rumors about Jane because she won't marry him. Andrew, the heir to the duke, finds Jane and tries to help her find a husband. We all know where this goes. 😊

A Love Worth Saving: A Historical Regency Clean Sweet Romance Novel by Fanny Finch

I actually enjoyed this story more than I did Jane Austen's "Persuasion". The characters are deeply and emotionally involved and the pain experienced by their past keeps coming back to haunt them. The truth is that neither of these characters can move on with their lives until they can get past the pain and love they still feel for one another. I liked Georgianna, but Captain Trentworth left me cold at points in the story. His personality is not one I can love, but the character was written well with that cold streak a man has when he has walled up his heart.

Saturday, August 4, 2018

Over Byron Bay by Jane Ellyson

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐
Remember the song from the show "Hee Haw", "If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all." This is this story. It is emotionally painful, and times I would think, "These two are so self-centered that they can't see the forest for the trees.". If they were a real couple, I would think God is keeping them apart, because they are blind. The characters are extremely well-develop and at times take a life of their own. Will they survive the climatic events of this book for their HEA or will they continue in their stupid decisions and selfishness? I give this imaginary marriage 3 to 5 years.

Her True Alpha Mate (Matchmaker Book 2) by Emilia Hartley

I laughed, but I did not cry. These two deserve each other with the pranks that were played. Although bad and serious things were going on around them, their mating play is fun. I liked Nikolai, but Monica rubbed me wrong, until she took her stand as Nikolai's mate. I don't get the matchmaking vixen, and it didn't add or take away from the story. This story is solid and just a little crazy. Some days, crazy is just the right thing.

The Highlander's Enigmatic Bride: A Scottish Historical Romance Novel by Lydia Kendall

The idea for this story is really hoping that the deep emotionally characters will compensate for the inanity of the plot. I don't care how well you write twists and turns only bad things can happen when people are this hate driven. The stupidity of an English girl running off to Scotland to avenge her brother is inanity in itself. She had no weapon training and the way she got caught and thought she could stab him with a knife made me laugh. Personally, when Edan found out the truth, he should have shaved her head and sent her back to her father in shame. We assume love can conquer all, but betrayal to family and clan is the ultimate sin to a Scotsman.

Loving an Earl by Eleanor Swan

This story was more whimsical than the emotional depth we should have seen from one Mary Caldwell. Lord Williams seemed like more of secondary character with no more emotional depth than a puppy. The story plot was well thought out if only the characters themselves could have played out.

Red Dots: Deep Space One was on a mission to save humanity. by Ray Jay Perreault

This is a great afternoon read with a twisted ending. This short story is written in the tradition of Isaac Asimov.

Call of the Lone Wolf by Carol Colyer

Rating:  ⭐⭐
This story is well-written, action-packed and just a little crazy. You'll see what I mean as crazy as you reach the climax of this story.The main characters are developed well, but the villains, and supporting characters lack definition and real focus. The Lone Wolf was written in the story with no real focus but to have a reason to save the hero and heroine. It serves no real purpose.

Boston Bride Salvation, #1 by Chloe Carley

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐
This is the first book that opens up the Colorado Reborn series. It's the story of how Clayton Graham's property was ravaged by the Cheyenne Indians and why. Although the story is well-written, I didn't really like it. Although, Fiona is stalwart and braves Clayton and the Cheyenne Indians. Fiona and the Calvary Officer did not inspire me.

Saved by the Scoundrel (Smithfield Market Regency Romance #1) by Rose Pearson

This story is based on a series of missteps and second chances. What happens to Caroline are based on peer pressure and her brother trying to marry her off to his commander. None of this is mentioned in the book, but it is suggested by Peter's actions. Lord Brandeis is the worst sort of scoundrel, but the title suggest that he saved Caroline. This is a falsehood, because Caroline saves Brandeis from the scoundrel's life. Although, this story is well-written and the characters are emotionally developed, this story crosses Regency ton rules, and things Brandeis parents would never allow.

Thursday, August 2, 2018

Secrets in Blood (In Blood #1) by Patricia D. Eddy

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
In this world, vampires exist and are known to humans. This book defines the lines of humanity, but who is the monster? This book makes me look at horror of what we are capable of as humans. In the midst of pain and terror, love is found, a connection and bond formed. Well written and the characters are deeply developed, even the side characters.

Promise of Redemption (Searching Hearts Book 5) by Ellie St. Clair

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This story has heart wrenching moments, and unexpected twists and turns. The main characters in this novel are well developed and emotionally charged. This historical novel is not for the light-hearted but for those who will be drawn in by the deep emotions of the characters and the drama of the mystery.