An Arranged Marriage with a Beast (Marriage Mart Scandals Book 1) by Amanda Stones

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Through pain and anger, a man justifies his behavior by being cruel and rude to those around him. His only course for marriage is to arrange one for himself. Trent is beastly and will not give up his past. Arabella is a ligh in the darkness. I loved that Arabella stood up for herself, yet tried to make an unpleasant situation into a life that she could live contently in. It's not an easy task when your husband is known as "Beast". I loved Arabella, but began to like Trent when he started letting Arabella into his life. The story is heartaching in places, but love restores the darkness. 

 

Finding Miss Giles (Hearts of the Hall Book 1) by Philippa Jane Keyworth

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

I liked this story, but it took a few chapters to really engage with the story. Once engaged the malice of the few who think they can gain by destroying the life of a human being is terrible.I think the problem was solved rather naivily by the author. It's good that Miss Giles gets the man, but how would their marriage work out in society? None of those questions are really answered, because it is all neatly packaged up.

 

Fairy Tale Christmas: Water of Life by Nancy J. Farrier

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is a fairy tale based on a kingdom that worships a God close to our Christian God. This world is filled with all things magical, but Yatheth is in control. The third princess, Iyana, is all things kind and is faithful to Yatheth teachings. This story has all the excitement of a great quest and the resulting sacrifices of love. It is enjoyable and each page is worth turning to find out what is going to happen and how Princess Iyana is going to save her father and her one true love.

The Poet and the Earl Next Door: An Age Gap Friends to Lovers Secret Identity Clean Regency Romance by Kristina Earl

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐

This delightful tale of a spinster with a secret life and an Earl who moves next door is engaging and warmth filled. Lord Wedmore is an eccentric Earl who loves reading and poetry. It is Eleanor who introduces him to the poet, Edwin Hart works. Edwin Hart is Eleanor secret pen name. Eleanor's heart is confused, because the Earl is in love with Eleanor, but wants to meet Edwin and takes up a correspondence with the man, I.E. Eleanor. Eleanor is delightful in her confusion and makes many mistakes, that someone as intelligent as Alexander should have picked up on it a lot sooner. However, despite this deficit in Alexander's brain, both characters are warm, loving and engaging, nor do they engage in idle conversation. Beware reader! You might learn something.

 

A Colorful Life Kindle Edition by Melissa Storm

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is told from multiple perspectives, but primarily focuses on Daly, the stifled artist. We rarely see the story through the eyes of the mother or Hannah, the pregnant single mother. The narrative follows Daly's journey from a life of monotony to a colorful existence filled with love and passion. She finds joy in her relationship with her Indian boyfriend in New Delhi and through her connection with Laine and Hannah's newfound happiness. Hannah's character serves as a catalyst, demonstrating to both Daly and Laine the transformative power of faith. While the story has some instances of run-on sentences, and the frequent shifts in perspective can occasionally disrupt the flow, the overall message of hope and redemption is compelling.

 

The Final Assignment: Mila K. Mysteries (The Mila K. Mysteries Book 1) by K.C. Brennan

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a great little cozy mystery that takes place in the Soviet Union. As soon as Mila gets her new post at the University of Chernivtsi, a rare book is stolen, and the detective points the finger at her. Of course, she is determined to prove her innocence and discovers that the book is more dangerous than interesting. This one is interesting because Mila uses her academic knowledge to investigate why the book was stolen, pointing out that she had no reason to steal it. The investigation leads her to one man, and this is where the story gets truly exciting.

Christmas Eve Surprise by Misha Quinn

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

There is nothing extraordinary about this woman being surprised by who dressed up as Santa. Just a meeting where a man lets a woman realize what he feels for her. The story is very short and can only be obtained if you subscribe to Misha Quinn's newsletter. It was okay and I wasn't impressed.
 

SEALed By Fate: A Clean/Closed-Door Second Chance Suspenseful Military Romance (SEAL Heroes Series Book 1) by Hayden Layne

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Sealed by Fate" starts with a promising premise: a thrilling rescue mission to save a kidnapped friend. However, the novel quickly veers away from the suspenseful action, instead focusing on the rekindled romance between the main characters, Kendall and Brock. While the character development and exploration of themes like love and loyalty are commendable, the novel's failure to deliver on its central plot line is a significant misstep. Overall, "Sealed by Fate" is a disappointing read that fails to live up to its potential. While it may offer some emotional depth, it ultimately falls short of an excellent climactic ending.

Espresso Your Love (The Coffee Loft Series: Fall Collection) by Bella Greene

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The story is a delightful romantic comedy that captures the essence of small-town charm and blossoming love. The story follows Cassie, a meticulous event planner, and Ryan, a ruggedly handsome new cop in town. Their paths intertwine when Ryan is assigned to provide security for the upcoming Autumn Festival, which Cassie is organizing. What sets this novel apart is the unique premise of Cassie's innocence. At 30, she's never been kissed. This unexpected twist adds a layer of sweetness and vulnerability to her character. The author deftly balances humor and heartfelt moments, creating a heartwarming and enjoyable read. The chemistry between Cassie and Ryan is palpable, and their slow-burn romance is both endearing and exciting. If you're looking for a lighthearted and heartwarming romance, It's a cozy read that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside

 

Mail Order Mishap by Jenna Brandt

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is a little mischievous  and straight forward. Elizabeth is a feminist for the suffrage movement, but her relative sends her to her brother to watch over Elizabeth after some serious mistakes made in Boston Society. Elisabeth is a strong-willed and intelligent woman ahead of her time. Her passion for women's suffrage adds depth and complexity to her character. Jake is ready to settle down and is waiting for his mail-order bride to arrive. Jake is a rugged and charming man who is initially put out by Elizabeth's manner after her mishap but is gradually won over by Elizabeth's spirit. His character arc is both humorous and heartwarming. One mishap has these two meeting and their romance takes-off from there. Two things that could have been written better was the scene where the men were protesting her women's suffrage meeting. The scene itself was intense, but the sheriff just arresting the men was a little too neat. The arrival of the mail-order bride should have had more drama. The mail-order bride could arrive during some dangerous event.By exploring these ideas, the scene could have had more dramatic and engaging scenes that would have kept me more hooked. The romance is sweet and Jake falling in love on second-sight is funny after his first encounter with Miss Elizabeth. It's a nice cozy read.

 

Snowflakes and Scandals: A Regency Holiday Romance Anthology by Heather Boyd, Elizabeth Cole, Bronwen Evans, Caroline Linden, Eliza Lloyd, Suzanna Medeiros, Barbara Monajem, Ella Quinn, Lana Williams

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Bronwen Evans' Betrothed by Christmas is a delightful holiday romance that warms the heart. The children's matchmaking scheme is both endearing and humorous. I particularly enjoyed the scene where the daughter created a call to her father and ended up leaving them both alone after he arrived. The author's skillful portrayal of the characters' blossoming love story had my heart warming. The Duke and Eleanor's slow-burn romance is beautifully developed, with each character's inner struggles and hopes for love shining through.

While the novella could have benefited from a bit more depth in the secondary characters, the central romance is captivating. Betrothed by Christmas is a perfect read for curling up with a cup of hot cocoa and losing yourself in a heartwarming tale of love and second chances.

The Scarred Lady’s Broken Heart: A Historical Regency Romance Novel (Scandals and Second Chances Book 3) by Martha Barwood

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

One woman withdrawn from society because of the death of her fiance and a man who blames himself for his own brother's death. When these two meet, they break through their walls of grief to wanting to live again. Their love rises to the challenges of machinations of society. It is a wonderful story covering the grief that each one of us carries as we try to move on with the living.
 

Examining Their Bond: Resident Doctor, Friend-to-Love, Suspenseful Christian Romance (First Responders of Faith Valley Book 12) by Jenna Brandt

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The resident doctor comes home to rumor and gossip. His friend from his childhood has secrets and problems which of course he is more than happy to help out with. The mystery of why her husband left her is solved and a chance at romance for Kathy and Dr. Marty. The story is not as suspenseful until the climatic ending. It's a good story to read for a light mystery with an excellent climax.

 

Cora: An Age Gap, Arranged Marriage, Enemies-to-Lovers Victorian Romance (Virtue & Vice Book 4) by Carrie Lomax

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Cora is ruined by a man who could not offer for her, then twelve years later he ruins her family so he can save her family by marrying Cora. This man is totally selfish and made this woman wait 12 years as a ruined woman before offering her marriage. Although, she ultimately forgives him, this man is unworthy of any woman. I detest bullies and men who seek to destroy others for their own gain. The author tries to pass this man off as decent but he is just another bully and pompous fool despite his desire for this woman. Although, Cora is a great heroine, Gideon Wentworth is not worth the ground that Cora walks on.

The Witness Rescue: A K9 Handler Romance (Disaster City Search and Rescue, Book 34) by Jenna Brandt

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story dealt with a lot of serious issues while keeping the story lighter than WITSEC stories tend to be. The climax was intense and the ending surprising. Alex and Everly's characters are well written and this was a slow burn as they renewed their old relationship. Love makes compromises.
 

I Kissed an Earl (and I Liked It) (That Wicked O'Shea Family Book 1) by Merry Farmer

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is a fun romp and the main characters are not bogged down by society's rules. The matches are all twisted up and it's up to our main characters to marry the right partner. It's a ride into fun and a little mayhem.

Prescription from the Heart; Small Town Romance by Sisi Bee

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The story is heartfelt and filled with past hurt and loss. Emily is a woman full of love to give and Hanna and John need that love in their lives. I'm not quite sure how they go so fast from friends to lovers, but the ending is sweet.
 

Highlander’s Lost Heir by Fiona Faris

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The story is really intense from the first page to the last. One man is good and honorable, the other is immature and selfish. Aileen grew up with both men, but has only loved Brohein. The story takes some serious twists and becomes very complicated. It is action-packed and relationships are very complicated along with the complex characters written for this story. It begins with two men vying for the love of a woman. The main thing that impressed me is Aileen always knew who and what she wanted and never strayed from her heart. The major twist in this story will change the course of two clans. 

Just Right by A.M. Heath

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story has an insane plot and the story line is just above crazy. Three family members move into Georgia's house and one of them is her ex-boyfriend who is trying to get her back. The brother of the boyfriend is falling crazy in love with Georgia while the sister just sits back and smiles. The sister is without personality or character sustainability. It's a shame because the other three main characters have sturdy personalities and are vivacious, while the sister acts like she doesn't exist. The chemistry between Matthew and Georgia is intense.

Seasons of Scotland #0.5 To Love a Laird by Sophia Nye

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is an excellent novella about loyalty and family. As a woman in medieval times, are you loyal to the family you were born to or the family you are married to. Nora learns that love is the deciding factor. 

Wild Fever (Chiasson Book 1) by Donna Grant

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

This story is more erotic than paranormal. I'm not even sure what the relationship between these two is, only that they desire each other. The storyline is clear, but the story is just background for the erotica 

Christmas in Nutfield: (Nutfield Saga) by Robin Patchen

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

There are two stories in this book. The first one is about Daniel Nolan from Innocent Lies. The second is about the Caro Neely from Convenient Lies.

Sleigh Bells &  Stalkers 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a reverse stalker where the female is stalking the guy. Daniel blows it off because she is a woman and doesn't see her as dangerous, until she slashes his tires with a large and sharp knife. The story takes off from there because a woman scorn is not going to hurt the man, but the people he loves. The story is intense and the climax held me on the edge of my seat. 

One Christmas Night

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Blake Carmichael is an actor who moves to Nutfield to try to get a second chance with his son. Carly is the aunt of the girl that Eli takes off with to Boston for a concert. Blake and Carly find common ground on the ride to Boston as they search the concert venue for Eli and Kyleigh. The story is not as intense as the first story, but danger lurks at a concert full of drug users for two unsuspecting teens. By the end of this story love shines through for Carly and Blake and a chance of restoration of Blake's relationship with his son.

Merry Christmas!

 

Highlander of Wrath: A Highlanders Historical Romance Novel (Highland Brides Secret Society Book 1) by Eloise Madigan

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

This story started out well and the main characters on the island are well written. The story gets a little off track and finally derails when Bridget's parents and fiancé find her. In the end, when Ewan saves her from the villainy of her fiancé, he should have sunk that ship. People like that don't deserve to live. It's a wonder how nice people actually emerge from indifferent nd abusive parents.

Murder in Silver Mesa by Ashleigh Quinn (Free book for newsletter readers)

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a good little cozy mystery with the right notes. The bookshop owner is a blast with all her bookly quirks. The cop on the case gives up trying to keep her out of the investigation when none of the towns people will talk to him unless Jane is there. This is a fun murder mystery with a little rom-com thrown in.

Until Now: A Wildflower Lake Prequel Novella By Lauren Elizabeth

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

It’s a story of unrequited love and a story of self deprecation. Kate allows her boyfriend to use and abuse her in the name of what is good for his career. She doesn’t recognize Steven from high school but he does and hires her in the college bookstore. He has one chance with when she invites him to her boyfriends gala. The story is poignant and addresses a lot of issues that women subject themselves to in the name of love. I wanted to slap Kate into seeing what her egotistical selfish boyfriend does to her as he twist his truth to manipulate Kate into his life even trying to change her career for his life. Love is kind and is not selfish. This story surely proves that line in the Bible.

The Wicked Abductor (Blackhaven Brides, #9.6) by Mary Lancaster

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The title of this book should be “The Not So Wicked Abductor”. After he abducts her he returns her home. I guess when you really love someone. You do what they ask of you. It’s a fun romp of love and silly parents. In the end, the girl gets the suitor she wants.

 

An Inconvenient Ward (A Regency Romance): Inconvenient Trilogy - Book 1 By Audrey Harrison

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A reclusive gentleman forced to be a ward to a woman until she reaches her majority finds himself entranced by the gregarious nature of t her. He talks her into a season and will give her an estate afterwards. He finds himself in love with her. The story is intense in parts and the Earl is a remains a gentleman even when his desire for her gets him to kiss her or run off gentleman from her side. You can feel the chemistry between the two as the story progresses and know that the Earl will wait for her majority. I’m glad the the author kept him to his moral code.
 

Fiancé for the Night (One Night to Forever, #1) by Melissa McClone

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

One fake engagement and love strikes ago. Typical storyline but these two fall in love after one night and keep the farce up for her family. I was getting angry with Tyrell because he was afraid of who her father was and what he could do to Tyrel’s career if he found out. Our boho bride who started this whole fiasco kept it because of guilt. Eventually the author untangled this duo only for them to realize they loved and needed each other. It’s a nice plot written well. It’s enjoyable with even all the angst. It’s a nice read.
 

Barely a Bride (Free Fellows League #1) by Rebecca Hagan Lee

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

I throughly enjoyed this romp about two stubborn independent individuals. These two find that they actually enjoy being in each other’s arms even though both knew what they signed up for. The characters are bright and engaging, and what they desired before they married is not what they need after the war. Love is not defined by expectations but by the unconditional acceptance of each other even when circumstances change who we are.

Her Highlander’s Dark Desire: Scottish Enemies to Lovers Romance (Highlanders of Cadney Book 13) By Fiona Faris

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is exciting from the moment you open the story to the turbulent marriage ordered by the King for peace. A long standing feud plagues both of these families and the fallout is left to Alayna and Daren to sort out. Love doesn’t come easy but both are willing to abide the Kings wishes, Alayna’s wish is for her brother’s release from prison. Darren’s wish is for their finally to be at peace on the isle. Unfortunately, there is another traitor among their midst.

Miss Fellingham's Rebellion: A Regency Romance (Love Takes Root) by Lynn Messina

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I'm not sure that it's a rebellion, but a matchmaking scheme at its finest. As the two are pared together, the Marquess finds that he really likes Catherine and begins to seriously court her. Catherine plans and schemes all on her own. The fun in this story is that everyone has their own plans and schemes and in the end everyone gets what he or she wants or needs. There is love in the air and everyone is too busy plotting to even notice!
 

A Bride for the Sinful Duke: A Historical Regency Romance Novel (Vows of Sin Book 3) Daphne Byrne

Rating: ⭐⭐

This story has some sexual triggers that makes it a questionable read and there are no warnings in the description. The only good characters are the Duchess, Anne and the Duke's friend Marcus and his wife Emma. The Duke is a selfish man who only thinks about himself, his achievements and failures. He is so egotistical  that he cannot see who is undermining his business and his wife. I saw it the moment the character first spoke. I don't know how this plot could have worked to this man's favor or his way because there is no divorce in Regency times, except if the wife is unfaithful. Even if she is found mentally ill, the Duke still would not have been granted a divorce. I've enjoy Daphne Byrne's stories before but this one fell quite short in the plot and execution.
 

The Bride's Secret by Jane Watson

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story grabs you right from the beginning and keeps you wondering till the very end. Some of the things that came out were disappointing, and her deception from the very beginning was beyond the pale. Even knowing of her issue in Five Point, I was very disappointed in the heroine in this story. Our hero however stepped up as a gentleman and did let me down, even though she was what he expected, not the extra baggage. 
 

Appalachian Serenade (Appalachian Blessings): A Novella by Sarah Loudin Thomas

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story takes on the problems of the 1940's where men coming home from the war and women being put out of work and back into the kitchen. Delilah is worse off then most because her husband divorces her and she is forced to move from Chicago to her sister's home in Virginia. There she gets a job as a store clerk and falls in love with the owner Joe. The story is about children and God's plan for us in having children. Do we accept his plan or try to make our own?

 

Mr. Darcy's Noble Connections: A Pride & Prejudice Variation by Abigail Reynolds

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A surprising variation that is sensual and more exciting with Darcy and Lord Charles fighting for Elizabeth's honor. This story stays in line with Jane Austen's story and occurs after Darcy writes her the letter explaining all his intentions and actions with George Wickham and Mr. Bingley. We learn that Elizabeth learned her ladylike grace from her time spent at Lord Bentham's, being friends with his daughter and having some of her schooling with her while she spent time with her friend. The house party is anything but dull and scandals and secrets come out in abundance. 
 

Anger (The Chaplain's Legacy Book 3) by Mary Kingwood

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Lady Farramont is a woman I could never like or get along with. She acts like a four-year-old when things don't go her way. Ian is a stable and wonderful man who loves Isabel with all his heart. He puts up with her tantrums and follows the childish woman all over England to retrieve her home while she's off deciding if there's a better candidate out there for a husband. The story is about the lesson Lady Isabel learns about her behavior and the unconditional love of Lord Farramont.

The Spinster (Forbidden Love Book 1) by Bree Wolf

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

The story is well written but the character Jo is completely naïve to what is in her heart or the right thing to do. It seems fate steps in twice so she can end up with the right husband. Unfortunately, the characters have no real depth, and our hero is nothing but a childish boy pretending to be a man.
 

Woodside (Sisters of Woodside Mysteries Book 5) by Mary Kingswood

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

I usually love Mary Kingwood's little tales as afternoon delights, but this one fell short. The dead come back to life who had not been dead at all but switched places with someone else. They died. Now Jeremy comes home to find Woodside sold and if he wants the place he has to marry the daughter of the man who owns it. He's in quite a fix, because he already has someone else in mind to marry. Good thing he is not in love with the woman! The plot went exactly as I thought it would and their were no surprises. I think the last book in any series should be exciting with at least one good plot twit. I didn't happen here.
 

Runaway Bride for a Grumpy Cowboy: A Small-Town, Enemies to Lovers, Second Chance Romance by Harley Bloom

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a story of tragedy and loss, both for William and Bernice. It's also a story of forgiveness, and God righting a wrong. It shows how our strengths, abilities and weaknesses can be used to bring two people who should have been together in the first place to a place of love and grace. This story is sad and tragic, that one woman destroyed what could have been a lifetime of love for these two, but selfishly stole what was meant to be her twin's sisters.
 

An Unexpected Marriage with the Earl: A Historical Regency Romance Novel (Noble Gentlemen of the Ton) by Bridget Barton

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story starts off soft and sort of romantic with Johanna saving the Earl. Being seen in the woods together, the Earl proposes to Johanna. The takes on some very romantic tones, but the author continually spoils the mood with some diversion or the woe is me, "It's just a marriage of convenience." Even though the Earl kept doing romantic and sweet things for Johanna. There is an excellent twist to the end of the story and these two characters are charming.
 

Pride and Precipitation (Chick Flick Clique Sweet Romantic Comedy #1) Edition by Heather Horrocks

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a fun romantic comedy where pride of job makes the weather girl miserable. Noah gets a little of his own and things start to tank when he replaces the local sweetheart with a bombshell replacement. I love the chaos that the new supervisor unknowingly causes and how love hits him right between the eyes. Breezy is no push over, and Noah is going to learn what pride can lose you.
 

Windswept Promises (Lighthouse Cove Book 5): A Small Town, Second Chance, Women's Fiction, Romance by Kel Summers

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a woman with sauce. She is beautiful, but she will give her opinion in a minute. The Duke of Somerton appreciates her honesty and wit, because she is not like any other debutante. The chemistry burns bright between these two. Through the wit and honesty, Rosalind has pain of her mother's passing and was thrust into the roll of substitute mother for her sisters. The Duke has issues of his own which is why he retires from debutantes and managing mothers. I like this story has it points out the pain of death and the effect on a household and individuals. 

 

Waves of Deceit by Donna K. Weaver

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story is heart-wrenching as we see Shelby go through every emotion as she comes to terms with having Wade back in her life. It's a story of second chances, forgiveness and the truth breaks free to reveal some very dangerous truths but also truths that will free the heart. This story is action-packed from the beginning and Shelby and Wade take us on a dangerous journey of love renewed.
 

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 English courts during the Crusades was a dance that demanded careful navigating. Our heroine is naïve and adventurous which lands her in all kinds of hot water. She seems to calm down when she realizes her husband actually loves her and doesn't just tolerate her. I thing Prince John & his Sheriff played the courts while King Richard was in the Holy Lands. This story shows that even while King Richard was in the Holy Lands. He sent brave and noble knights home to defend against his own brother. This story has great depth of each character and the adventures of war, chivalry, loyalty, honor and love creates characters larger than life, and characters that grow as the tale unfolds.
 

Forbidden not Forgotten: A Clean Friends to Lovers Forbidden Love Regency Romance by Allie Star

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

This is designated as a Friends to Forbidden Lover romance, but it actually is a reverse Cinderella or if you're a Jerry Lewis fan, "Cinderfella". Oh I think I gave the plot away. The writing is good, but has unrealistic expectations and the only thing for a true happily ever is a run to Greta Green. Idealistic and fantasy minded are the main couple, and only a fairy tale gets this kind of ending.

Always Been Yours: A Best Friends to Lovers Single Dad Romantic Suspense (Destiny Falls Book 2 by Alexa Rivers

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

 The suspense, intrigue and twists make this story very exciting. I loved the main characters and routed them til the very end. Friends make the best husbands and this pair will be no different. Friends care about your entire well-being and it's the foundation of every great marriage. This story spices up at the suspense and mystery grows more intense.

The Fairy Tale Bride (Once Upon a Wedding Book 1) by Kelly McClymer

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story held my interest as I got to know Miranda, a woman who believed in Fairy Tales. Her husband, Simon, the Duke of Watterly has the wrong sense of honor and duty. Miranda chooses to change his mind. The story has a great suspenseful tale, and several unexpected twists. I rated it four stars, because sometimes there is just too much Fairy Tale.
     

Lula Mae: Sweet Historical Western Romance (Love Train Series Book 4 ) by Charlene Raddon

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This was a fun story with high adventure and a bit of comedy. Marshal Gannon Calloway has a big surprise when he finds a stowaway on his train. It's even a bigger surprise that it is a woman dressed as a boy. Lula Mae is not your average woman. She a mule steerer and knows how to handle a mule and a whip. She even gives demonstrations on her abilities. This is one love affair that keeps the old Henry and the Love Train moving. A Marshal needs a woman like Lula Mae covering his back.

 

A Maid for Mason (Mail-Order Mama Series Book 13) by Regina Walker

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This starts out as a typical mail order bride scenario, but instead Mary Ann's whole family comes west. Being tricked into coming by his sister, Mason makes her his maid and nanny. The relationship grows more naturally than usual stories. The characters are well written and the story flows very smoothly. I really like Mary Ann's character and even when things go wrong, she seems to straighten her spine and try to make the best of a bad situation. Mason would have been totally blind to Mary Ann's character and the work ethic that she displayed. 
 

The Determined Debutante: A Sweet Regency Romance (The Zodiac Regency Series Book 1) by Meredith Bond

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lady Preston is the most impressive character in this story. All of the male characters are just a little over done. Who does what the Duke did to his best friend? Earl of Oxbridge thinks he is too big for any woman. Our heroine, Clarissa thinks she has to win the season, while Miss Buttery-Clements makes off with the prize.  To be honest, who needs a villain in this story with the main characters and the supporting characters doing the dirty against each other. As I said, Lady Preston our Zodiac Matchmaker keeps the story going through all the chaos.