Retribution: The Harry Starke Novels, Book 7 By: Blair Howard Narrated by: Tom Lennon

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story totally shocked me, because of one of the acts done at the end of the story. I expected Harry to be more of a monster, but the truth is the true monster is Bob. Harry deserved what he got in this story, but his attitude and cover up the above act is an affront to law enforcement, that includes Kate at this point. I've never really liked Kate. She is all willing to go along with Harry, but really Kate is a snake. I've met women like her before. She does everything to pull Harry into her cases to help her with her murder cases, but does nothing to help him, unless it suits her or advances her cause. I'm personally glad that Harry has someone like Amanda, because Kate would have brought Harry only unhappiness, that was particularly apparent in book one. Amanda supports Harry, and worries with good cause. Yet, she doesn't let Harry push her around. This story hits the darkest part of us. It lets us see that even when the darkness takes hold, Harry finds a way back into the light.
 

Family Matters The Harry Starke Novels, Book 6 By: Blair Howard Narrated by: Tom Lennon

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This one makes for a great gothic novel, even has a happy ending. Amanda inherits a hotel from her grandmother. She travels with Harry to Maine to settle affairs with the hotel and have Harry try to find why her grandmother's grandmother disappeared. We even have ghostly visits, lights turning on and cold spots. All of these are expected in a 200 year old home. The keys to this 100 year old mystery is a box that can't be opened, a watch and a portrait. It reveals Amanda's shocking heritage and the secret of Elizabeth's disappearance. Let's just say during all the mystery and spooky going ons; Harry has a Hallmark moment.
 

Gone The Harry Starke Novels, Volume 5 By: Blair Howard Narrated by: Tom Lennon

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a very sad story and I feel for Chief Johnstone's loss of his daughter. As Harry digs up the dirt on Emily's college, he discovers a prostitution ring, a website called Calista and an alternative lifestyle of intrigue and corruption. What he doesn't find is Emily's killer. The twist in this story is that the killer was overlooked, as Harry states, "A Rookie Mistake". It wasn't my mistake, because I suspected her from the beginning.
 

Checkmate The Harry Starke Novels, Book 4 By: Blair Howard Narrated by: Tom Lennon

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is the first book I actually read in this series. The going was slow, but as the story progressed I really started to like the characters. Harry actually took me some time to like, but his harsh manner softens when he is with Amanda. I didn't understand the Kate/Harry dynamic at first, but it became very clear after reading books 1 & 3. Angela Hartwell is found dead by Harry while golfing with his father. Kate turns the case over to Harry, because he belongs to the Country Club and people will be more likely to talk to him. Actually, he ends up making everyone either wary or angry with him. There is a definite twist at the end, one I actually didn't see coming.
 

Hill House The Harry Starke Novels, Book 3 By: Blair Howard Narrated by: Tom Lennon

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

How do you solve a ten year old murder? A girl found under the floor of Hill House, of a runaway home for girls. The horror of secrets that Harry uncovers is a bit sickening, but human trafficking is a sickening subject, and the fact is goes on in our own country makes it worse. Harry's new girlfriend, Amanda helps him uncover the old dirt on Hill House and its previous owners. There's plenty of action and some down right dirty dealings, but it seems nothing will stop Harry from giving the girl buried in the floor of Hill House justice. The surprising twist will make you squirm.
 

Harry Starke The Harry Starke Novels, Book 1 By: Blair Howard Narrated by: Tom Lennon

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Harry Starke is not for the weak of heart. He is an ex-cop and hard hitting PI. He gets the job done. What he doesn't want the rest of the world to know is that he has caring and soft heart. I got that fact when he saw a women throw herself off a bridge and all he was left with was her coat in his hands. He's flawed, because his love of women which gets him into trouble. The death of Tabitha Willard takes him deep into the corruption of US politics and financial laundering. I could love a man like Harry, except for one thing. Harry doesn't have a strict moral code.
 

Mission: Accept Rise Again Warrior Series, Book 2 By: Stacy Eaton Narrated by: Ryan Clark

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I really enjoyed this story. It started out a little confusing and I didn't see how they could even think about a relationship. Dana grew from the self-centered creature she was before her father cut her off to the self aware person that she became. Derek already self aware, but on a mission he was having a hard time accepting. It's the reason that he is living on the streets. This story makes you aware of the actual living conditions and what the homeless actually do to survive. It's the reason why they can't accept help and the reason why we can't understand. What Rise Again Warrior does for the veteran homeless goes well beyond other services do. The story is excellent and makes Derek face his mission and what he wants in his life.
 

A Change of Plans Safe Harbors, Book 1 By: Donna K. Weaver Narrated by: Vicki Pierce

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story although a romance at heart is daring with a pirate adventure thrown in. What Lyn has been through being kidnapped by pirates and being shipwrecked after their escape. Then to lose Braedon in a storm during their rescue would be probably a bit more than I could take. The narrator captures your attention as they board the ship for Lyn & Els 4 week cruise. The narrator captures the emotions of Lyn and I felt the anger, frustration and the loss that Lyn feels. This story portrays an extreme amount of emotions but each one is profoundly felt by Lyn and I rejoiced when Lyn finally found the courage to face what happened on the island and share her story. I think that how we face true loss shows us our strength of character and growth as a person of character.
 

The Secondary Inheritance by Evangeline Kelly (

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

As this story plays out, there can only be pain for either Anna or Delilah as only one will get permanent custody of baby Ember. Only trusting in God, can bring the miracle that Anna & Delilah receive in this story. It touched my heart and gives me hope that God tries to do the best for all of his children.
 

To Dare a Duke (Girls Who Dare #1) by Emma V. Leech

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is scary because one woman who saw what her mother endured in her marriage, has chosen to vilify the Duke of Bedminster because of rumors of how he abused his wife and drove her to ride her horse so hard she broke her neck. She wrote a novel that in those days was published by a magazine in chapter segments. When the Duke of Bedminster goes looking for another wife,  because of his duty to produce an heir, he goes to his uncle to help him find a woman who is practical and intelligent. His uncle chooses his favorite wallflower, Prudence. What Prudence learns devastates her, and changes the ending of her book to the surprise of herself and her editor. I found the Duke quick to forgive Prudence after she changes the ending. He knew enough about Prudence when courting her that she was not marriage minded and why. It should not have shocked him that she found her independence in writing. The clues were all there; ink on her hands, her wit and intelligence, her no nonsense way of things. The dare that this series is based on is really secondary, the only thing that the dare provides is a way for these wallflowers to step out of their comfort zones. Like Prudence's dare to dance at midnight, she didn't have to dance with the Duke. She could have danced alone, but she wanted the rest of her club to take their dares just as seriously. The characters are charming and well-developed, even with horrible faults. It actually makes me like them more.
 

Christmas at Pemberley A Pride & Prejudice Variation By: Abbey North Narrated by: Verona Westbrook

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a delightful story of Elizabeth and Darcy's first Christmas together. In this story, Darcy and her father dispose of Wickham and enjoy a delightful holiday with their family. This story is not typical of Jane Austen, but the writing of the characters stays true.
 

The Last Man in London (Rogues & Gentlemen #9) by Emma V. Leech

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is hilarious and brought a smile and laughter as Dinah tries to manage Lord Benjamin Lancaster. I don't think the author meant it to be a romantic comedy, but these two reprobates are perfect together as they face the ridiculous to get Dinah's inheritance from the nasty weaselly lawyer. Let's face it, a regular woman of the ton would never had snared Ben's heart. The man is reprehensible, and needs someone who has the backbone to stand against his rakish ways.
 

One Wicked Winter (Rogues & Gentlemen #6) by Emma V. Leech

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is of man that is no longer himself and never will be. Belle is a woman who needs to marry to get out from under her aunt's guardianship. Although, there is something between Edward and her, she sets her caps on Mr. Nibley. He is nice and wouldn't it be wonderful to live in a house with someone who wasn't vulgar, bullying and money grubbing. Edwards falls into her trap, instead of Mr. Nibley and it's of his own making. I love that Belle is determine to be a wife and help her husband cross back into the land of the living. She accepts that it will be a long and difficult road, but is willing to make the sacrifice to have a happy home. We know that Edward is not a bad man, just an angry and guilt-ridden one. The problem with the story is Edward's character in the beginning is not the same one as in the last book. I'm only hoping that maybe the author's intent was to show that he had manage to get some control over himself as he plans the ball for when his sister returns from her honeymoon. Even for a Marquess, Edward is quite vulgar at times, and I end up shaking my head that anyone would even grace themselves to come to a ball at the Marquess's home.
 

Colorado Heart by Marian Wilson

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a sedate story about an over stressed woman who has a breakdown. She come home to Boulder to be with her parents. She meets and falls in love with Bradley. Some things in this story is heart-wrenching, and you will find a connection with one or both of these characters. Even when Sophia leaves to go back to New York, Bradley doesn't give up.
 

Cupcakes & Chaos (Frosted Misfortunes Mysteries #1) by Lisa Siefert

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is funny and our new detective Ava is insane. She inherits a bakery from a dead woman she is accused of killing. She takes int he woman's four thousand dollar cat. Who pays four thousand for a cat? The best ones are found at your local shelter. The woman treats her cat like a dog, and accidentally stumbles into the the real killer. This story is also situated in Blueberry Cove where several town are situated on this cove. This cove must be a bay like the Chesapeake to have so many towns. The characters are nuts, and the story is fun, but it's really just a copy of all the other series in Blueberry Cove.
 

Nearly Ruining Mr. Russell (Rogues & Gentlemen #5) by Emma V. Leech

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is very funny considering it is about Aubrey Russel. I met him in "The Earl's Temptation". Aubrey steps in to help a woman running around London looking for a man. Violette nearly ruins Aubrey with the things he does for her, but his heart is falling in love with her. Violette in my opinion is a nymph sent to torment Aubrey, but she does have the decency to be grateful and fall in love with him. Unfortunately, they have a very large problem they will have to overcome, Violette brother, the Marquis of Winterbourne.

The Devil May Care (Rogues & Gentlemen #4) by Emma V. Leech

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Have you ever noticed that the most handsome man is always the most messed up in the head? The Marquis of Beaumont is in disgrace in France when he learns of his father's death making him the Duke of Ware. He has been writing to the only person left to speak to him, a mousy little woman, Miss Millicent Sparrow. To find out why he is in France, you'll have to read "Scandal's Daughter". Millicent is a woman who was abused by her uncle. Beau rescues her when he returns to England and marries her. The problem throughout this whole story is these two are never on the same page. It's not until Millicent gains her freedom through Beau that she learns her own strength and character. Beau learns that one woman like Millicent is worth being faithful and it's possible to be a good man.
 

Scandal's Daughter (Rogues & Gentlemen #3) by Emma V. Leech

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a really good story that captures you right from the beginning. As the story takes it twists and turn, information is revealed that history may be repeating itself. Friendships will be tried and love drives Sebastien to certain madness when Georgina is kidnapped. This one is very romantic, even through the lies and challenges this couple will have to overcome.
 

The Earl's Temptation (Rogues & Gentlemen #2) by Emma V. Leech

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Celeste is a character I hope never to cross, because Alex Sinclair is about to find out. It takes this man almost two years to realize he can't live without Celeste. I guess being over or near forty made him lose his mind, and a stubbornness about being old enough to be her father. The age difference in this story was not uncommon during this time period, so I don't know why Alex had a hard time with it. He never thought of Celeste as his daughter, but as a woman. As Alex found out, a very formidable one.
 

The Rogue (Rogues & Gentlemen #1) by Emma V. Leech

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The characters in this story are fascinating. Nobody is what they seem and the interactions between the characters can be very intense. Henrietta is looking for an escape from her betrothal. She decides to blackmail a pirate (shaking my head) and gets kidnapped on his ship when the Revenuers show up. The story takes another turn and we find out the Rogue is actually the brother of the Earl Henrietta is betrothed. The antics the villains take on are amusing and sometimes downright stupid. The brothers are both forces to be reckoned with and to be avoided. Most stories have a point where the story takes a turn, but this one takes several before Lawrence can get it through his head, he is stuck with Henrietta.
 

A Tremendous Scheme Against Love by Carol Colyer

Rating: ⭐⭐

This story has a lot of flaws, especially the main characters. Jack is a coward. Delia is a weak and naive girl. She believes someone who is mean and manipulative. She is warned several times by other characters in this story. Does she take her concerns to the man she is marrying? No, because she has no backbone. Willow is your typical backbiting, manipulative woman that takes pleasure in making everyone’s life miserable. The author gives us insights into Willow but disrespects that regard when Willow is forced to leave town. The plot is simple but the author doesn’t quite follow through with her characters.

Behind the Door A Small Town Florida Romance (Behind the Love, Book 4) By: P.C. Zick Narrated by: Cynthia Hemminger

Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is about Sally Jean. It is a strong and well written story. We learn a lot about Sally Jean and all the guilt the woman carries. No child should be subject to the words her parents use to tell her. The author is very cruel in this story and Sally Jean loses Jimmy who just asked her to marry him. Not only does this story make me cry, it made me angry. Especially when she fell into bed with Brent the psychologist a few weeks later. The problem is I felt Brent was more lustful of Sally Jean, and it is obvious that Sally Jean felt that way too. She was afraid for him to see her body after her surgery. The author grasps grief well in this book, as everyone was shocked and grieved heavily for Jimmy's death. I know of the fog that Sally Jean walked around in and had to force herself to come out of. The timing of their relationship did not feel right. I will say I have never liked the character of Sally Jean. If she was a real woman, I would only wish the best for her, but her personality would have grated me. I also feel Brent didn't deserve her, because of his bad  & poor judgement. A real psychologist would have recognized his feelings and lust for her right away. He would have suggested someone else in the first place. How can you help someone emotionally when you are drooling at the person you are listening to? In this case, Sally Jean wised up long before Brent did.
 

Behind the Curtain Behind the Love, Book 3 By: P.C. Zick Narrated by: Cynthia Hemminger

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a good story about Lisa, Susie's sister. How she dealt with the murder of her mother, and all the aftermath, before she ran away to New York. It seems she is coming home to Victory to film a reality program. The stuff this producers does is totally unbelievable just to prime the drama up. With Sally Jean hogging the spotlight and telling the producer all of Liza's secret, it's amazing to me that Liza doesn't really hurt Sally Jean. Tommy has come home to help his mother & father while they wait for the cancer to take his mother. There are some really deep and emotional scenes that the author truly captures. Tommy's work has him write about the reality show while he is in Victory. Between the chaos of the show and his mother dying of cancer, Tommy actually finds time to fall for Lisa. When Lisa's boyfriend attacks Sally Jean, Jimmy who works with Leah at Soup Kitchen saves Sally Jean from him, and start their own love story. We find out that Sally Jean has good intentions, but doesn't have the common sense to realize what she is doing. The climax is very sad, but Tommy and Lisa find and overcome their difficulties to recognize their love for one another.
 

Behind the Bar Behind the Love, Book 2 By: P.C. Zick Narrated by: Cynthia Hemminger

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is about a couple that has been together for five years, no ring, no promise. Suzie watches her best friend, Leah, get married to Reggie's best friend, Dean. She wants that with Reggie, but Reggie refuses to ponder the point. Suzie feels she has wasted five years of her life and kicks Reggie to the curb. Suzie gets mugged by Reggie's gambling buddies, and starts unraveling the mystery that Reggie has been so hard trying to hide. Sally Jean tries to take advantage of the disagreement between Reggie and Suzie. All of this sets off a past that Suzie has forgotten and needs to confront. Personally, I think everyone in this town could benefit from a psychologist. There are points in this story where I think some of the people got off light. The climax is intense and allows us think of all the pain that Reggie and Suzie have to deal with from their past that can they try for a beautiful future.
 

Behind the Altar Behind the Love, Book 1 By: P.C. Zick Narrated by: Cynthia Hemminger

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a great story about the hardships of being homeless. Trying to to acclimate yourself back to having a regular home, and the dysfunction that is prevalent in our society. It seems the town of Victory has every dysfunction that could affect a person. It's wonderful and not so wonderful characters reflect everything that is good and bad in our society. The healing of Leah is marked by her standing up against the woman who took her off the streets. Leah was chosen because she is nice and despite living on the streets wants to help any one. Service to is Leah's calling. She is set to marry Jacob, the vicar of Victory Church. It is all in Geraldine's plan to control her family until Dean, Jacob's brother rides into town. All the secrets that this family held tight while they lived in Victory come rolling out in their awful truth. Geraldine is the nightmare of bride to be, and her secrets can destroy all of them. Dean is the eldest brother who comes to town for the reading of his father's will, which sets off a storm in Victory. Meet the residents of Victory, Dysfunctional is the new name for real people.

Fire Maidens: Ireland Billionaires & Bodyguards, Book 5 By: Anna Lowe Narrated by: Kelsey Osborne

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story started out quite differently than the other stories. First of all, Finn had met his mate when he was ten years old. After he finished his business in Ireland, he was going to America to find her. Surprise! His mate inherited a cottage from her uncle in Ireland & now Finn is her neighbor. This story is really intense, and the danger actually comes from one of their own. The action scenes are really intense and excitement building. Grace finds a magic of her own hidden in the caves of Ireland, changing her view of her entire world. The narrator in this series does not fail in her delivery, making the story that much more enjoyable.
 

Love Costs (Shards of Sevia, Book 3) by E.B. Roshan

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

The storyline and plot are very well written. What this story lacks is a real connection between the characters. Throughout the whole story, I felt that Dunya was using him, and that is more than evident when she accepts his marriage proposal to keep herself and the orphan baby from being killed. The climax doesn't wash because of the lack of connection between the two characters. What he sacrifices and almost sacrifices for her reminds me of the old Bible story of Hosea who marries Gomer, a prostitute and she is unfaithful to him and leaves him. Her new lover sells her into slavery and the husband buys her back out of slavery. The problem is that although this man believes in God; he shows no real pain in his emotions when Dunya just leaves without a word. Hosea became a broken man, and searched for his wife, because He loved her. The problem is there is no real emotion expressed even during the fight scene and even when Dunya declares she wants the same light in her heart that Radoslav has. I believe a lot of that is because the conversation between all the characters is stilted causing a lack of emotion in any of the dialogue. I believe with a re-write to the dialogue this could be a deeply emotional story.

Mistaken for a Rake (Landon House #1) by Rose Pearson

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is whimsical and delightful. Our hero is a mistaken rake and Rebecca is the daughter of a Duke. Lady Hayward keeps steering Rebecca away from Lord Jeffery, but Rebecca really likes Lord Jeffery. What Lord Jeffery does to prove he is innocent of the charges he is suspected of is a little underhanded, but all is fair in love and war.
 

The Four Suitors by Sophie Jupillat Posey

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

As I read this story, I learned to hate our heroine. There is nothing I liked about her. She is overbearing, spoiled, obnoxious and rude. Unfortunately. her parents the king and queen gather four suitors to learn from and for her to choose one of them. This is where the story actually starts to get good, because there is intrigue and political corruption that Sir Braxton and Laeticia uncover. I don;'t know if Laeticia actually falls in love with any of her suitors, but who she chooses is actually taken out of her hands. It is well written and one wonders if she actually deserves to regain her kingdom.
 

Resolute (Eternal Brethren Military Romantic Suspense Book 9) by Shirleen Davies

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This series takes a different way for the Seals to be protecting the Home front; at home. This group has a bad boy image and it serves them well in getting rid of the gangs and drug dealers on our soil. Lucas Gunner is ready to settle down, but the one woman he wants has set his kind (MC Outlaw) off the table. This story is full of intrigue and is action-packed. There is an underlying story to Katrina Snowden as her history comes to light. I love the interaction between these two and how Lucas breaks through her defenses.
 

Reign Of Fire: Deep State Mysteries, Book 1 By: Casi McLean Narrated by: Kristin James Series: Deep State Mysteries, Book 1

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story asks a lot of questions about our political system. The murder of a politician's aid. Only they don't know she has a twin. A harden cop looking for justice for the young woman. It's about a foreign power deepening it hold on our political system so they can control our policies and implode our democracy. This story is not hard to believe looking at the corruption and policies that are being attempted in our political system. There is a love story between Ashton and Emily as they delve into solving her sister's murder. This story has lots of twists and intrigue keeping you riveted.
 

Her Threads of Fate to Tie the Marquess by Hazel Linwood

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a good story and the main characters are perfectly lovable. The villain is horrible and the author blends the evil machinations and blurs the lines later on in the story. These two are fighters, but Courtney is not cut out for London Society. Logan is just as harsh with her as her stepmother, but Courtney tries, afraid of embarrassing her father. The stepmother doesn't want Courtney and Logan together, so she spirits her off to London. Logan goes to London for the season and so they are together again. The plot is simple for a step-family with issues and it is fun read.
 

How to Claim a Governess’s Heart: A Historical Regency Romance Book by Bridget Barton

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 This is a delightful tale of a ready made family. The woman goes out of her way to protect the child. John caught between his own desires and his family’s turmoil. He tries to make the best of the situation and continue to try his career as a writer. I love how he best his brother and enjoyed the story. It a light read but very enjoyable.

Tea Time with the Earl: Historical Regency Romance by Lisa Campell

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

This is a little outrageous and a woman could never pass themselves off as a man unless she took the role seriously. Which she didn’t; because to truly do it she would have had to cut her hair into a style that men wore. Worn men’s clothes but she only borrowed boys clothes. And like our earl, after a couple days staring at her face, he would like recognize the feminine features. The plot was well thought out, but not the storyline. It’s romantic that the Earl wants her even after the deception and they go on to try and figure out what to do about the men who who were not paid for their dirty deeds. It’s okay as a whimsical story, but deception doesn’t fly

 

How to Woo a Highlander: Scottish Medieval Highlander Romance by Shona Thompson

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

What do you do when’s you fall in love with your Laird’s betrothed? You pray that you are more than your weakness. The Laird needs to marry and makes a deal with an English Lord to marry his daughter. He doesn’t love Jane and doesn’t have the time to woo her. It puts her in the care of his second in command, Alastair. Jane and Alastair fall in love and there is war threatening the land. This story will keep you on the edge while wondering how are they going to be together? Jane surprised me with her attitude change, and how she stands up to her father. The characters are well developed and sometimes I could actually feel their pain while reading.

Mending His Past by Kristen Iten

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is an excellent story and our hero captured my attention right away. No one is permanently broken. We all know that love heals all wounds. Unfortunately, His biggest mistake is now back in his life, and working with him on the ranch. It's obviously from the beginning that these two have a lot of baggage, but they still love each other. While Trent tries to help Sport heal from the loss of his owner, Olivia is helping the ranch get back on it's feet. One dog falls in love with Trent and Olivia's daughter. These two try to be friends, but find that the magic is still there and the walls are falling down. This is a sweet romance and I love our soldier heroes.
 

Wager for a Lady's Hand (Lockhart #1) by L.G. Rollins

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

As far as the love story between Marianne and Sheldon, it is a very sweet romance. The story is well written as far as the characters are concerned. It's the lack of barrister skills that Sheldon has. I know he is new to the roll as lawyer, but his P.I. should have come back on the Earl's dirty secret before Marianne heard the rumor from a cousin. The climax was exciting, but senseless. How did the earl ever think he was going to recover from attempting to kill Marianne. Most villains like Cockell are more intelligent than to attempt something like that since he had spies in Marianne's home watching her. I really did love the characters and the story is a sweet romance. I just wish the author thought more about her options, than she actually gave her characters.
 

His White Marchioness in the Gilded Cage: A Historical Regency Romance Novel by Patricia Haverton, Cobalt Fairy

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is about a girl thrown into the London Season who has never really had any training as a lady. Her father is dying and forces her to go to London to stay with her friend. The twists and turns that this plot takes to keep Analise from Carlisle are sometimes ridiculous, but as the climax finally comes to an ending we see the true villain in this subversive plot. An enjoyable tale, but I knew who was behind keeping Carlisle from Analise. I just didn't know why, which makes me wonder why Carlisle didn't figure it out earlier.
 

The Marchioness for Whom the Bell Tolled: A Historical Regency Romance Novel by Hanna Hamilton

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A childish and arrogant woman who did everything to weed out the wrong man, that she weeded every man in London out and laid devastation to one man's fortune. Her parents ship her off to an old friends home for an arranged marriage. It's there that Belinda starts to change and finds that Oliver is wonderful. This story uses the plot that we reap what we sow with a little madness thrown in. Oliver is sensitive soul, and finds that Belinda brings him out of his timidity. Oliver brings out her kindness and makes her happy. But all of that is about to be thrown into the fire when mysterious letters start coming addressed to Belinda and Oliver. The story writes itself and the climax is exciting. Let's just say it's a good thing that Oliver can forgive after he gets over his anger.
 

Highlander’s Wicked Destiny: Scottish Medieval Highlander Romance (Wicked Highlanders #4) by Fiona Faris

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is intense and action-packed. This story at first seemed a little out of time and place, but I actually did a little history background checking and found the battle took place in the early 1700's, along with the Jacobite uprisings. We also have a little Pocahontas in this story with Neil being the son of an Iroquois woman. No place is without its prejudice, but this story makes out that the clan accepts half-breeds. They may have tolerated him, but marrying into the nobility of the clan would never have been accepted. The intense plot and story line makes for an exciting adventure with two romances going on at the same time. The author realizes her predicament and writes a surprise into the story, so Neil & Lizzie can have their happily ever after.
 

Wish on a Star (Pop Stars Romantic Comedy Book 7) by Rachael Eliker

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is just as funny as the others in this series. There seems to be a depth of emotion that is more prevalent in this story, than the others. We know Mandy from all the other books in this series, but we never really knew Mandy until now. This is a story of a woman who let her parents rob her of her happiness. She projects her parents relationship onto her own with Tyson, and leaving him high and dry for things she could control; her job at Harper Music. This Mandy is not the one we know; a take charge, get it done. This woman is unbalanced, prone to accidents and completely undone by Tyson just looking at her. A second chance romance that just might mean that "wishing on a star" just might mean your dreams can come true.
 

The Shocking Bride And The Solitary Rancher: A Clean Western Historical Romance Novel by Evelyn Boyett

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

The story in of itself is good, and the plot is dastardly evil. The story, although well-written; runs itself out after the climax. The epilogue is extremely unnecessary and tries to revive the story well past the climax. It was irritating, and I was thinking maybe a second book would have been better, if we wanted to know more. Especially since the author wrote an extended epilogue on top of the extremely long epilogue in the book.The characters are well written, but I think the character of Buford was written wrong for a manipulative man. Especially since the first time Buford opened his mouth, I wanted to shoot him. I know why he dropped the charges on Buford, because land grabs are hanging offenses out West. In the end, it would have been more merciful because of all the problems he had removing him from the land afterwards. Like I said, too much epilogue.
 

Tempting the Scoundrel (Private Arrangements #2) by Katrina Kendrick

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The story and plot are excellent. It's emotionally gripping and sometimes painful to read. The truth in all of this is that Alexandra loved him, not because he wasn't a a baron. It was because he saw her and knew her. The pain of his betrayal literally tore her heart out. Nicolas went into this to save his friends in the East End. He never thought he would fall in love. We find regret has a way of keeping us from asking for forgiveness. When Nicolas's enemies find out he is married, they go after Alexandra. Alexandra is an extraordinary women with the heart of a lion. Nicolas's enemies are going to find out how extraordinary Alexandra is. With Nicolas beside her, she'll be unstoppable.
 

Highland Fortitude (The Band of Cousins #5) by Keira Montclair

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is intense and action-packed. The characters are wonderful, but very immature, given their age that is to be expected. There's a maturity to him wanting to marry Constance, but he fails to find out the reason. Like all young men, he assumes it is because he is one-handed. My one problem with the story is that Daniel thinks like a mature warrior, yet he is only 17 years old. If it wasn't for the ages that the author used, I would have given it 5 stars. Daniel's maturity was out of character for his age. We watch Constance grow as she learns that running from her problems is not the answer, and standing for what she believes and wants will get her a long way down the road. I liked these two together.
 

The Haunted Knight of Lady Canterley by Patricia Haverton

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is emotionally draining as we experience the madness of grief, pain and anger as it overtakes Amelia. Her sister is kidnapped and held for ransom. The ransom is so steep, both Grace's fiance and her father must come up with the money. This story is heartbreaking, and there is no real happily ever after with the knowledge that this family must carry forward. It seems the only one who can keep Amelia grounded is her brother's best friend, Tristan. Tristan is faultless in his love for Amelia, but Amelia is blinded by a promise made to her mother, that she cannot see what is plainly in front of her. Amelia goes on an adventure of finding her sister that takes her and Tristan to the northern shores of Scotland. Where Tristan does his best to keep Amelia from harm and madness. It's where Tristan recognizes what Amelia really needs: freedom.
 

The Mail Order Bride’s Rekindled Hope: A Historical Western Romance Novel by Etta Foster

Rating: ⭐

This story is quite redundant and stupid from the point of marrying a lawman, especially a marshal. A marshal doesn't just cover the law in his town, but in the territory. Marshal's had Federal authority to chase criminals all over the country. Polly is quite stupid to stop Edson from doing his job. Then to consider he can't go chasing criminals in his area like bank robbers is ludicrous. This story has unrealistic expectations and we are to believe the lawman is just going to let criminals roam free. There were several times I wanted to slap Polly and say wake up you chit. Polly is so unrealistic that she deserves to be alone for the rest of her life. Polly needs to get over her abandonment issues, because Edson is not the problem; she is. A real lawman would expect his wife to accept his role in life and deal with it. This story wanted to make me cringe for all lawmen everywhere. I say, go get them criminals; I'll be waiting for you, knowing you are making the world a safer place.
 

Hannah's Rakehell Duke (The Heir and a Spare #4) by Fiona Miers

Rating: ⭐

This story has a lot to be desired, especially our main hero. The man is an abomination to men everywhere. His behavior is irreproachable, and I don't know how a decent woman would stand him. This brings us to Hannah, our shocking American. As a plantation owner's daughter she would have had the grace of any southern belle. She had none. A Southern lady can plant, ride and shoot as well as any man, but in the tea room or ballroom; she is the epitome of civility and charm. Her behavior was the epitamy of Annie Oakley's style of behavior; brash and inappropriate. In fact, the whole story is inappropriate. In fact, Archie should have wrung John's neck and challenged him to a duel. No, he just accepts that John ruined Hannah. The plot is horrendous and the story is without real planning. Hannah just accepts John second proposal. Why? Because he proposed in front of the Ton. The climax and ending are disappointing. Wish I didn't waste my time, but I was hoping for something better to come up.
 

The Keys to a Lockridge Heart by Abby Ayles

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I loved this series. Each story can stand on its own, but together they weave an intricate web.

Melting a Duke's Winter Heart
 Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I love the characters and the plot in this story. It's twisted and endearing at the same time. There's mistaken identity and scandal and an evil father with twin daughters that secretly defy him. This story melted my heart along with the Duke's.

 A Loving Duke For The Shy Duchess

 Rating:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This story is what happens to the sister "Lucille" from the story "Melting a Duke's Winter Heart". It seem Lucille accepts an arrange marriage with Duke Crowan to get out of her father's house. She spends months avoiding her husband out of fear of his reputation. One night after a dinner gone wrong, neither of them can sleep. Reginald finds his wife in the library. She asks him what's wrong and he lays his head in her lap. She allows him this and it changes something in her. From there Reginald and her begin to build a friendship based on respect. What Reginald has unleashed is a veritable tiger. This story continues months after where Sarah's story ends, but we find that Lucille is actually more courageous than her sister, Sarah. Sometimes all a person really needs is the freedom to be themselves. 

  Freed by the Love of an Earl

 Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a very intense story. Although, Edmund has loved Margaret for as long as he can remember, with his estate in tatters, he never hoped to marry her anytime soon. Blackmail has risen its ugly head, and Margaret needs to marry and marry wealthy. Edmund offers marriage when he learns that Margaret need to marry quickly. Both fail to tell each other the issue with their finances, and things proceed to quickly go downhill. I found Margaret to be selfish and arrogant to believe that she could handle things herself. The blackmailer was asking for more than the worth of her father's estates. The story is very intense, and the plot is definitely intriguing. It seems to me that Margaret has no common sense and could have prevented Jerome Colbourne from escaping if she wasn't more worried about Edmund and the Ton finding out about her birth. Of course, we wouldn't have had the thrilling climax. In this case, the story is great with the same wonderful characters from the 1st 2 books, but I have a hard time abiding stupid women.

Freed by the Love of an Earl by Abby Ayles

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a very intense story. Although, Edmund has loved Margaret for as long as he can remember, with his estate in tatters, he never hoped to marry her anytime soon. Blackmail has risen its ugly head, and Margaret needs to marry and marry wealthy. Edmund offers marriage when he learns that Margaret need to marry quickly. Both fail to tell each other the issue with their finances, and things proceed to quickly go downhill. I found Margaret to be selfish and arrogant to believe that she could handle things herself. The blackmailer was asking for more than the worth of her father's estates. The story is very intense, and the plot is definitely intriguing. It seems to me that Margaret has no common sense and could have prevented Jerome Colbourne from escaping if she wasn't more worried about Edmund and the Ton finding out about her birth. Of course, we wouldn't have had the thrilling climax. In this case, the story is great with the same wonderful characters from the 1st 2 books, but I have a hard time abiding stupid women.
 

Netherfield: Rogue Dragon: A Pride and Prejudice Variation Jane Austen's Dragons, Book 3 By: Maria Grace Narrated by: Benjamin Fife

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is the third book in this series and is just as wonderful as the first two. Elisabeth will do anything to save Pemberley, including marry Mr. Darcy. Mr. Bennet must face the fact that Elisabeth will not be taking care of Longburn, and Mr. Colins is to marry her sister, Mary. There is a rogue dragon in England and Darcy and Elisabeth are called by the Blue Order to find him, and bring him in, while John Fitzwilliam has been ordered to kill him. The narrator is wonderful with the climax of the story, bringing it its exciting end. This series is a must for dragon and romance readers everywhere.