Mistress of Disguise: A Regency Christmas Romance (3 Titled Gentlemen Find Love Book 1) by Lebesque, Sapphire

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

The story of a French emigrant who washes up on England's shores, the daughter of a Duke... She is hiding as a servant, but she can't hide the aristocracy within herself. The Duke of Berkshire, Dan, sees her even though she is acting as a lady's maid; no lady's maid ever looked like her. The story has a weak plot, and the storyline lacks information as to why Mrs. Paige did such a horrid thing while making it seem like she was helping the girl. Furthermore, if the viscount's wife knew who she was, why did she not have a servant in her employ who knew her secrets? This would have ensured that when everything went south with the viscount, Violet had someplace to fall. The story lacked imagination and was historically inaccurate as to how England took in émigrés.

Percy's Brides by Ivy Hart

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

The idea had merit, but even Christian women aren't that good. The Bible verses used to give credence to both of these women's thought patterns were the typically used and popular ones. The story played out so there was no confrontation or any real drama. Personally, I would be offended by what Percy's mom and sister did. They upended two women's lives for them to come out and marry Percy, not even telling him beforehand what they had done. Fortunately, Percy is a good man and upends his life to accommodate these two women, hoping that their lives will be salvageable.

Shoot-out in Deadly Trails by Henry Conley

 

Rating: ⭐⭐

Despite any other interpretation, this is not a love story; it is about vengeance, manipulation, and murder. While there is a happy ending, it is likely not the one anticipated. The ending and the climax were extremely disappointing; however, the author skillfully executes the twist in this story.

The Saxon Bride by Ashley York

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Intriguing for the time period, this story introduces John of Normandy, unwavering in his loyalty yet possessing simple needs. His reward: a child bride and the lands of the Saxon he felled in battle – her father. His bride is a passionate woman, her spirit a beacon to a man like him. Rowena is stubborn, determined that this Norman will not harm her people as she takes her place as lady of the manor. Passion flares between them, yet she strives to instill in him the Saxon ways of managing their estate. Unseen by either, a darkness gathers, poised to overthrow the Norman King, a danger that shadows them both. Theirs is an adventure set in perilous times, the journey of two adversaries learning to love and live alongside each other.

One Night in Beniton Hall: A Regency Romance (Beniton Hall Series Book 1) by Iris Lim

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Heather, a dutiful woman, meets Charles, a quiet man. They are both honorable and quietly enjoy each other's company. Aunt Cordelia's setup leads to Charles' brother being bound to marry Heather. Alfred is quite animatedly opposed to this. Charles steps in and marries Heather. She thinks Charles is all about duty and honor, while she quietly falls in love with everything he does for her. She helps his family during his mother's sickness and comes to understand his family through it all. What she doesn't understand is that a quiet man doesn't do the things he does unless he loves that person. It's the reason he rushes to his mother's side when she is sick. It's why he listens to his wife at breakfast, even when he probably couldn't care less. Heather, not having any brothers, doesn't see this side of a man or even understand it. This is why communication is the key to happiness in any marriage. This is a wonderful story about everyday people who struggle with their own insecurities and try to live a contented life, hoping for more. The problem here is they already have it.

The Savior of the Cattle Baron's Daughter by Madeline Thornton

 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The cattle baron is the villain in this story. His daughter, Rose, raised in isolation and darkness, is central to the unfolding events. Sheriff Wilson schemes to bring Montgomery to justice. Ethan Harper steps into a dangerous deception, replacing Rose's jailed fiancé, Vincent Westbrook, whom she has never met. Driven by his own agenda, Ethan is searching for his sister, Hannah, who is entangled in a secret romance with Sanderson, the ranch foreman. The intricate web of relationships and hidden motives creates a perilous atmosphere. The climax promises to be exciting, delivering an unexpected twist that will irrevocably alter the lives of all involved. While the characters may believe they are profiting from their actions, the narrative suggests that their mistakes will trigger a dramatic and inevitable downfall.

Love Holds True (Shades Of Bramley Hall Regency Romance Book 1) by Michelle Helen Fritz

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A story filled with emotion unfolds as a ruinous brother refuses his rightful place. The younger brother, stepping up to fulfill a contract, falls in love with Lady Everleigh, and she with him. A betrayal occurs when Francis steals his brother's love via the old contract. While the anger and rage displayed by some characters are intense, Gideon's love and decorum remain steadfast. Though some might perceive him as weak, his strong faith guides his actions. He and his grandfather hold fast to the family motto: "Love Holds True." For Gideon, the final straw is discovering Francis is taking his betrothed to dens of debauchery; his love compels him to prevent Francis from ruining her and their family.