The Ladies of Bath: A Regency Romance Boxset Collection by Isabella Thorne

The Duke's Daughter

This is the only one of the these three that I haven't reviewed before. This story reflects a woman who stubbornly viewed her place in this world as a spinster. When her father was killed,  she turns to the man who intrigued her to help her. Amelia learns that you can't judge a man by a first impression, and Samuel Beresford keeps Amelia on her toes. Commodore Samuel Beresford learns that love has a way of sneaking into ones heart. This story is a delightful romp with delight repartee.

The Baron in Bath

I waited on this book because it came out in parts and I hate part reading. I am one of those that hate serials that try to make you come back because the story is not complete. I like serials that are complete stories in themselves and if you want to come back it is because the characters and the setting want you to. So I waited and my author granted me an Advance Reader Copy. This is my honest review.

Julia is a large woman, not pudgy or fat, but Amazonian. She has self doubts and her father arranged a betrothal to the Baron of Fawkland. The gossip surrounding this man is atrocious and Julia does not want to be married to a faithless man. Julia remembers the Baron as a child and remembers that he was arrogant. His brother, Cedric was her own age and they had fun playing together, although Cedric used to get in a lot of trouble. Cedric makes his moves on Julia, although she is betrothed to his brother. The Baron is trying to properly court Julia and wishes for her to be his wife.

The truth is this book is about how malicious gossip can be circulated and ruin and hurt people, especially when the lies are perpetuated by a malinger. I loved how the Baron and Julia overcame the gossip, and you will have to read the book to find out what happens to Cedric!😃

The Deceptive Earl

 This problem addresses the things in Regency that we didn't have a real name for; PTSD and Alzheimer's. It's amazing how much love these two had for their own families. Things could have gone badly if Neville hadn't helped Charity out, but his own understanding came into play because of his own brother. This is a story worth reading, and an understanding that love can come from a friendship and secrets shared.

Aiding Abby (Gold Coast Retrievers #10) by Kim Koby

This story is about a service dog to a woman who has trouble coping with crowds. Two years after her father's death, Abby is ready to find out what happened to her father. At the firehouse, she meets a man named Ben. Together they investigate the fire and her father's death.There is a certain amount of tragedy in this story and a twist to Ben and Abby's relationship that I think should have been handled differently. Love has a way of making our hearts more forgiving than otherwise one can actually believe.  The way that Abby stepped outside of herself in this story is promising because she really wants to change her life.

The Portrait of a Rebellious Lady: A Clean & Sweet Regency Historical Romance (The Merchant's Daughters Book 3) by Fanny Finch

This story crosses two countries and two different cultures. The story addresses both, but centers on Georgette and Mattia and her parents. When these two are together, its as if they are all alone. When Georgette finally decides what she wants; it is a decision between understanding Mattia and choosing a life without him. Georgette will understand that with love comes sacrifice.

A Sheriff to Harness her Heart: A Historical Western Romance Book by Etta Foster

I liked this story. This mail order bride story a twist that makes you wonder if more things happened like that to the women that went out West. The sheriff tries to protect Regina, but finds that Regina works hard to make herself useful. When these two finally realize what they mean to each; it made me smile. I read the extended epilogue and felt that it wasn't necessary. It does tell you about her relationship with her parents, but I felt that probably wouldn't have happened. Philadelphia society parents would have probably either shown up and dragged her away, or disowned her for the scandal she put them through.

Written in the Stars (Pop Stars Romantic Comedy Book 5) by Rachael Eliker

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a second chance novel, and we assume throughout the story, Warren was the one to break it off. It shows how unsure and childish Eloise is being, even as she gains confidence taking her singing career on tour with her ex, Warren. I love Warren. He is not a quitter and does everything he knows how to win Eloise back. Unfortunately, Eloise is stuck in her own head most of the time. With the help of her outrageous friends, Eloise finds that her and Warren's love is written in the stars.

A Vixen for a Viscount: Book 2: Hyacinth - Clean Regency Romance (A Duke's Daughters - The Elbury Bouquet) by Arietta Richmond

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved this story. It is romantic and brought a smile to my face with the bantering between these two. The plot and the story is well written with a intense climax. Hyacinth is well meaning, but doesn't like society's way of meaninglessness. Kevin is bored with the woman of society, but finds Hyacinth refreshing look fascinating. Will she reveal her blackmailer to Kevin, or will she end of marrying the man she loathes most of all.

Catastrophe with a Count: A Steamy Regency Romance (Ravishing Regencies Book 7) by Emily Murdoch

This little romp is exactly as named. The only good thing about the story is that it is in the West Indies. Everything that happens here is beyond the ideals of society. The characters are likeable, but these two deserve to lose each other at the end of this story, even though they do not.

The Wolf Duke (Valor of Vinehill #2) by K.J. Jackson

This is a really deep and emotional story. An accident makes a woman seeking vengeance lose her memory of the past six months. She learns exactly the man that the Duke is. Set against northern England and the Scotland border, Reiner will follow Lady Sloane anywhere, because she has stolen his heart. Betrayals and lies will be the means to uncovering the treachery, but it will mean an unbreakable trust must be formed. I love Reiner and Sloane together. Theirs is a love that will stand the test of time.

The Scandalous Life of a Betrayed Heiress: A Historical Regency Romance Book by Lucy Langton

Rating: ⭐

The plot in of itself is immoral and the story could have flowed better. The outrageous treason charges was the only way the author could have thought of a way out of the marriage. The Prince Regent would have taken all of Clumber's land back to the crown. Everyone of marriage and blood would have been stripped of everything. The author was too generous, and Philip and Sophia should have been on the next ship to America

A Western Tale of Rivalry and Love: A Historical Western Romance Book by Aurora Hanson

We start out with a brother and sister that have just lost their father. We have a bitter man that wants the ranch who used to be friends with Belle. He courts her a month and marries her only to close himself from her, because her land is what he wanted. Damon redeems himself, because he finally opens up to Bella and professes how he feels and what he wants to happen to the land with Reese receiving his inheritance at eighteen. This story has a dramatic climax and a wonderful ending. This is a story of forgiveness, and redemption.

Change of Heart: A Seashell Cottage Book by Judith Keim

This story started off really well, but I got lost somewhere in the middle. I picked it back up when Devin comes back and commits himself to Em. The story goes on from there without a real climax to the book. The plot was well thought, but the story could have been put together without all the long boring parts that had nothing to do with the couple.

Philomena: Unwanted Bride (Young Love Historical Romance: Volume 2 #4) by Misty Shae, Terri Grace

How frightened Philomena must have been to come across country to be a mail order bride, and then to find out Lewis only wanted a housekeeper. Although, the author did not portray Philomena in that way, here she is in the west and no prospects of a husband to protect her. So, she accepts the housekeeper position for at least some money and a safe place to stay. Fortunately, the pastor's wife has something else in mind. Lewis comes to love his housekeeper and doesn't like the fact that men are coming around and courting the pretty housekeeper. Lewis's thoughts are hilarious because there is no way any man can keep himself completely separate from his household. I like Philomena, but had trouble even liking Lewis because of his stupid thoughts. It's a good story with a typical mail order bride ending.

A Gentleman for Judith (The Wednesday Club #1) by Sahara Kelly

This delightful story is full of surprises and it is evident that Judith is not an Almack's girl, thus the Wednesday Club. Sir Ragnor Withersby will not know what will hit him when he meets soft spoken Judith. He thinks Judith will be biddable, but he is going to have to rethink that assessment.

Mesmerized by a Horse Whisperer: A Historical Western Romance Book by Carol Colyer

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This story is about overcoming prejudice and an overbearing and controlling father. The love these two share cannot be overcome by love alone, but by people who truly love you and will stand with you. I think maybe the asylum was a bit much, but it got the point of the story across, and what lengths his father was willing to go to keep control over his son.

The Passion of a Marquess (The Sisters of the Aristocracy #2) by Linda Rae Sande

High sea adventures for two aristocrats as they are washed overboard. Love and passion develop between these two as they try to survive on this island. This is a very erotic story, but it doesn't take away from the story. I feel that the Marquess is a very immature male, because he makes assumptions about people very quickly and hurts Samantha by abandoning her on a pirate ship. Although, he learns the truth about what he saw. He has a very long way to go to make amends. Selfishness and folly play a large part in this story, and fifty percent of the book is spent with them apart. This is not conducive to a productive story, because I wanted to skip the chapters until the story got to the part where the Marquess got his head on straight.

5 Blades Riveting Realms of Adventure By: Drew Briney, Jason King, David J. West, Jaime Buckley, Lewis Strasburg Narrated by: Julian Pearson

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Each story is slightly strange and leaves you feeling weird. Some are spell binding, but others are just okay. The narrator has an excellent voice. These stories are short enough to be entertaining.

Live Wire: A What Doesn't Kill You Romantic Mystery Written by Pamela Fagan Hutchins Narrated by Pamela Fagan Hutchins

At times, I positively did not like Maggie. She is self-centered and only focuses on herself. Maggie is a walking disaster, and deserves some of the trouble she gets herself into. Although Maggie solves the mystery, I absolutely hated the ending, and felt angry and unresolved. Another feature of this novel that is terrible is we never get to understand what is going on with Hank. As soon as they start talking, the killer starts shooting at them, leaving the whole relationship/friendship up in the air with an end to a relationship between them before we actually know what Hank's head is thinking.

Pain of the Marquess by Deborah Wilson

This is a sad and painful story of a woman who discovers how wicked her father had been. She tries to right his wrongs, but an assailant is terrifying her in her own home. The man she has always loved is hiding secrets from her, although he offers his protection in marriage. This story contains much heartbreak and pain, and even when Clive is emotionally tearing Lydia apart. Lydia holds herself together and forgives him, because that's what love does. Love does not abandon, it forgives. A lesson Clive Fawley is going to learn.

To Marry a Morgan (Pathways to Romance Book 1) by Cinnamon Worth

While reading this story, I wondered, "Are people really this stupid?" I understood the guilt that Philip had about his brother, but the rest of it firmly logs into my category of "stupid". The only person in this entire story that had any intelligence and sense was Juliet's sister, Allison. Unfortunately for the author, I detest stupid.

Highlander's Savior: A Historical Scottish Highlander Romance Novel (Highlanders of the McCall Clan Book 1) by Barbara Bard

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐
I must say that the characters are well-developed and an excellent plot. What I have to say about Drew's javelin injury healing in two days is ridiculous unless he's a paranormal. Although campaign's could last for month's, once the fighting started, it was over pretty quickly. Four days, before they confront the commander of the army is rather sad for the Scottish Highlander. Although Blair and Drew convince Rosemary and Sarah to go to the Highlands, they were nothing more than English prizes and reminders of a how they won the battle against Lord Flynn.

A Second Chance for the Tormented Lady: A Clean & Sweet Regency Historical Romance Novel (Tales of Magnificent Ladies Book 3) by Abby Ayles

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I'm surprised that the author used a Christian man for the main character. I question a Christian man putting himself in that situation. The terror that this woman has been through and has yet to go through is terrible, but Liam puts himself out their for Frederica. His love is true, but it sets himself up for scandal. I thank God that Frederica's brother is the one who sees reason through all this. The characters are lovable. I enjoyed the story and plot is well-written, but veers off  near the end to be a true Regency romance.                                                                       

The Marquess of Secrets (The Hornsby Brothers #3) by Karyn Gerrard

This is a different type of Regency romance. It's a time when trains have come to England, making it easier to traverse the country. It's about a nobleman living a secret life as a physician, when doctoring was considered a middle class, and a middle class women falling on desperate times. Have you ever met a soul that drew you in and wanted to be around? They are perfect in every way, except they would never fit in your society. The fact is you don't fit in your society. This story covers those issues and how you may overcome them. It also helps if your family supports you. Harrison and Lydia are of one mind and heart, time will heal her battered soul, but love will put it back together.

Fool's Gold (Forged Hearts #1) by Cari Davis

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you are thinking adventure upon the high seas, you are quite wrong. This story is about a high fluting family who thinks everyone is beneath him. Family members are estranged and the two head brothers are as cold as ice. One sister is sent off to California with a warning never to return, while her niece witnesses her mother's murder by her father. The main characters are Melissa, the sister in California trying to get back to her niece and Gold miner and banker Sebastien Henderson. The fire cracks between these two and our adventure begins. Personally, I love the villain of this piece, Mr Walker. He is suave and debonair with a very charming manner, while killing people who get in his and the Bertrand's financial gains. I love the interactions between the characters and the plot and execution of this story is well done.

Make-Believe Husband Make-Believe Series, Book 4 By: Vivi Holt Narrated by: Amanda Stribling

Narrator does an excellent job or reading this story with emotion and strength. This story is well done and both Stacy and Jake are lovable. Unfortunately, Jake is blind to Stacy's emotional state. One is because Jake is grieving his father's death. Two is because Stacy intentionally sends mixed signals. Narrator takes you on an emotional roller coaster as Jake and Stacy work out their relationship.

Beguiled Cutter's Creek, Book 22 By: Vivi Holt Narrated by: Paul Curtis

I like the hero on the book cover better than the audio book. I love listening to Paul Curtis read.  I respect Joe for trying to honor the contract to Minnie, but Minnie was the one to break the contract. Joe also made a promise to Scarlett, and I feel he did not look hard enough for Minnie, or wait long enough for a response. Scarlett deserved better from Joe, because in her heart she believed she wasn't good enough because of her past. Even when she broke down and confessed she had no where to go, Joe still did not back down from his supposed honor. He never asked what she would do when she left Cutter's Creek or if she would go back to being a saloon girl. I hate when a man can't see past his own pride. So parts of this story made me angry, but of course the women in Cutter's Creek come in to save the day. What would man do without women? Answer. He would be eternally unhappy and in the dark. This story will tell you how to look past your pride and see a solution and future happiness.

Arriving from Arkansas (The Pioneer Brides of Rattlesnake Ridge #1) by Elisa Keyston

The characters in this story are well developed and the main characters are likeable. The story does quite well until the climax and the climax and epilogue are disjointed in places. I finished the story feeling not quite satisfied with the ending.

Little Loves (The Church Dogs of Charleston #2) by Melissa Storm

This light inspiring story brings us back to Charleston and Pastor Adams. Harmony is a woman who is in a self spiraling circle and keeps hurting herself. Muffin is our miracle dog in this story and opens Harmony to love. I enjoyed this story and watch as Harmony grew in love and became the woman she was meant to be.

War of Hearts: A Christian Historical Romance Novel by Chloe Carley

Rating:  ⭐⭐
Virginia is one of the most selfish women I have ever read about as a heroine. The two heroes are not much better. Charles Harcourt is a self-serving man who reneges on a promise to his mail order bride to gain favor by marrying the Colonel's daughter. Jesse was a half-breed Indian posing as a white man stealing from the fort and stages to feed his people. Although, there is growth in Virginia, it takes a kidnapping to make her see some sense. Her best choice would have been to go back east without getting married. There are much better men out there than these two. This is well-written, but I just did not like the main characters or the story.

Terrier Transgressions (Pet Whisperer PI #2) by Molly Fitz, Melissa Storm

This series is hilarious and book two does not let you down. The chaos this woman creates on her own, not including talking to Octo-Cat, makes me think she should be locked up. It's good thing she doesn't have a man in her life. She would have driven him mad or accidentally killed him. Life is never boring and neither is this book.

The Playboy Patriot by Evangeline Kelly

I love the commitment Tucker made to God, after his re-commitment. For Katie, Tucker is a fantasy, and fantasies are best left in your head. After refusing a date with Tucker, Tucker decides to hire her as a house manager. The friendship and trust grows between these two into love. Maybe fantasies to come true and God is the perfect matchmaker.

Drifting From Deadwood (The Pioneer Brides of Rattlesnake Ridge #6)

The characters in this story both knew loss and harden their hearts to protect themselves. Through adversity, they learned to trust each other and in turned allowed their hearts to love. This story is very well written and is historically accurate as to what women were up against in the 1800's.

A Love Rising from the Ashes: A Historical Western Romance Book by Aurora Hanson

Hetty is a wonderfully written character. Her heart is in the right place and makes a decision for her sister's happiness. What Hetty ends up with is an extremely bitter man. I understand his anger about the switch, but the way he treats Hetty is way beyond wrong. Hetty falls in love with Jake's family and chooses to love Jake, in spite of Jake, which is a true reflection of our relationship with God.

Hot Country Nights: A Country Romance Collection by Ellie Danes

Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two stories featuring rich alpha men wanting to protect the woman who makes his heart race. These stories are well written and the characters are easy to love. Each story has it's own plot and are enjoyable.