A Scandalous Match Against All Odds (Lustful Lords and Ladies) by Emily Honeyfield

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Susanna's story held much promise, but in the end did not deliver quite the punch to her conniving ex-husband as I hoped it would. Reginald is a quite man of propriety and holds a dark secret of his own. He finds his attraction for Susanna compelling and quietly rages against what her husband puts Susanna through in the English court system. When her ex-husband sees that the Duke is attracted to his ex-wife, he schemes to do more damage to Susanna and the Duke. This story is very emotional and brought out my anger at the outrageous Earl and the evil done so he could collect her dowry and dump her so he could go back to his sordid single life. Love seems to find a way into the darkness of Susanna's heart and life. I love Reginald, such a wonderful and quiet man, even with his own wrong doing. At least he ensured that nobody was harmed. The whole time I'm reading this, I'm thinking: open Susanna's heart to Reginald's love.

A Duke's Devilish Plan by Emily Honeyfield

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

This is a fun story with a lot of awkwardness. As Rose's family heads to the country to amuse themselves for the summer. Rose is worried that Leo might be there from her summer romance two years before. The explanation for Leo running off, after promising to ask Rose's father to marry her is just plain ridiculous, because it suggests that the heir to the Dukedom doesn't have a mind of his own. He deserved to lose Rose to Bertram, although the whole problem is that Rose is not in love with Bertram. She was marrying him for stability. This story is a cautionary tale about trusting your step brother's opinions and judgments instead of your own. They just might lead you astray! Characters are well written except for the minor characters and the villains. I saw through the whole villainous ending at the very beginning of this story.

Inspector Proby's Christmas by John Gano

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The hunt for the shotgun killer in this novel kept me engaged, but I found Inspector Proby a somewhat frustrating protagonist. While his obsessive nature drives the investigation, it also blinds him to the damage it inflicts on his marriage and professional life. This internal conflict adds complexity to his character, but his flaws ultimately undermine the story's climax, which felt underwhelming. The author crafts a compelling cat-and-mouse game between Proby and the killer, Henry, who proves a formidable adversary for the Hampton Constables. However, Proby's shortcomings prevent the resolution from reaching its full potential

Ruby: Mail Order Brides of Wichita Falls Series - Book 1 by Cyndi Raye

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This story, featuring Ruby's attempt to outsmart a ten-year-old named Billy, is a delightful read. Ruby's initial deception, posing as Marshall's bride to retrieve land certificates, takes an unexpected turn as she falls in love with both her arranged marriage and Billy. The narrative explores Ruby's evolving perspective on independence and love, showcasing her growth and the complex relationships that develop. The characters are engaging and endearing, making this a charming and heartwarming story.

A Lady's Christmas of Convenience by Amanda Stones

 

Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a story of friendship that evolves into love. Eliza is disappointed when her father announces a marriage of convenience to William, as she had her heart set on Richard. William is pleased, as his feelings for Eliza have grown over the past year. The story is a little drawn out as they spend each day of December engaged in Christmas activities. The storm, though dramatic, pulled me back into the narrative. Tragedy has a way of clarifying our true emotions, and it reveals that they loved each other all along; their love simply matured into a lasting bond.

The Rugged Road to a Bride's Heart by Madeline Thornton

Rating: NONE

Well, this is a first. I am leaving this book unrated because it is a copy of Carol Colyer's "Her Rocky Road to Happiness". The plot line is the same and the cast of characters are the same with new names and places. I rated Carol Colyer's four stars, but because the books are basically the same I am leaving it unrated. I contacted both authors but have received no response on the issue. Reading either one would be a good read, but if you read one don't read the other. It really takes away from the story, because all I did was compare the stories.

Seven Days Off: A Mylas Grey Mystery Book by Luana Ehrlich (Audiobook Version)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This installment follows Mylas's recuperation after a gunshot wound, despite doctor's orders for seven days of rest. He becomes entangled with his gardener's friend, who possesses a captivating and thought-provoking story. This narrative delves deeper into Mylas's evolving Christian beliefs, introducing new concepts and fostering his spiritual growth.

The author effectively portrays Mylas's disregard for medical advice, leading to unforeseen and potentially dangerous consequences, including another shooting incident. The climax is action-packed, culminating in Mylas's involvement in disrupting a money-laundering scheme operated by a known drug dealer. The story concludes satisfyingly, leaving a lasting impression on this reader..