Review: Anna Bennett's ONE DUKE DOWN

 

Rating: 4.5
Review courtesy of Romance Junkies

Andrew Keane, the Duke of Hawking, travels to an English seaside resort town to escape scandal. However, trouble follows him there. Keane wakes with an aching head and a fiery-haired woman hovering nearby. He plans to discover the identity of his attacker, but first, he needs his rescuer’s assistance. Keane cannot ignore his growing curiosity of the beautiful angler, especially her distrust of the nobility. Will Keane and Poppy figure out his assailant? Can he convince her to take a chance with him? Or will their differing social status stand in their way?

Miss Poppy Summers is a fisherman’s daughter. She takes over the family’s angler business, while caring for her ailing father. Poppy discovers an unconscious man washed up on the beach and tangled into her nets. She suspects the man will be nothing but trouble, especially when he claims to be a duke. Poppy reluctantly agrees to help Andrew Kean find his assailant. She soon becomes swept up in the adventure and the man. Can Poppy trust Keane with her heart? Will she dare fight the social barrier dividing them?  Or will Keane prove to be like the other members of the ton?

Keane is a delightful surprise! I could not help but fall in love with the charming rascal! Keane is a man who has survived his father’s belittling contempt, but he never allowed it to harden him. I adore Keane’s generous heart. He would willingly step in and help someone from the working class against his peers. What I love the most about Keane is that he is not conceited or pompous. He does not care about class distinction. Keane never once put on airs around Poppy or disparaged her way of life.

I am thrilled that Poppy received her happily-ever-after. She deserves it. Poppy has this scrappy personality that I cannot help but adore! She is not afraid to speak frankly or stand up for herself when necessary. I understand Poppy’s negative outlook on the nobility. She has weathered their disdain and superiority all her life; however, she knows there are a few exceptions. What I love the most about Poppy is her dedication to family. For all her brother’s flaws and faults, she has never given up on him or abandoned him. Plus, Poppy sacrificed her dreams for the future to care for her father.

ONE DUKE DOWN is the second book in Anna Bennett’s historical romance series, ROGUES TO LOVERS. The story can easily stand alone. However, I would highly recommend reading the prior book, GIRLS BEFORE EARLS. It introduces the prominent setting, a charming little seaside town called Bellehaven Bay. It also shows the sweet friendship between Poppy, Hazel, and Kitty, plus their secret sisterhood. I love how Kitty and Hazel play important roles in the story’s development.

ONE DUKE DOWN is a whimsical tale of two people managing to overcome their social standing to be together. I finished this book in two sittings because I really did not want to put it down. I wonder if Kitty is the next Belles to find her special someone. I cannot wait to find out!

Review: Stefanie London's PETS OF PARK AVENUE

 

Rating: 4.5

Review courtesy of Romance Junkies

Scout Myers works at her friend’s talent agency dedicated strictly to animals. She wants to prove she is responsible enough to care for her sister. An unfortunate accident at work almost destroys Scout’s chance at a promotion. She needs to find a temporary doggy replacement and fast. However, the only replacement who resembles her client belongs to Scout’s estranged husband. Scout knows she needs to confront their unsettled past if she wants to succeed. Can she win guardianship of her teenage sister? Or will Scout’s insecurities set her up to fail.

Lane Halliday is a tech entrepreneur, who runs a successful multimillion-dollar company. He has dedicated his entire being to work. Lane receives a shock when his estranged wife knocks on his door, asking to borrow his dog Star. Scout’s return brings a slew of problems and bittersweet memories. Lane reluctantly agrees to her request but with restrictions. Being around Scout again reawakens his old feelings for her. Can Lane and Scout settle their differences for a possibility at a second chance? Or will he proceed with the divorce proceedings.

Scout is such a relatable heroine. She is a woman with self-confidence issues and insecurities. I admire Scout’s steadfast determination to better herself. She never had much positive influences growing up, except for her best friend Isla. Scout owns up to the many mistakes that she has made over the years. What I adore the most about Scout is her sense of selflessness. Her life may be a mess, but that does not stop her from helping people, especially strangers.

Lane has this hot nerd vibe. He is neither alpha or beta, which makes him such a nice change of pace. Lane is a man who likes to adhere to rules and responsibilities. I like how Lane never allowed money or success to go to his head. He remains humble, willingly helping those who are important to him. What I adore the most about Lane is how he openly accepts Scout. She may be his opposite, but he never once considered changing her. Lane likes how she balances his perfectionist nature.

PETS OF PARK AVENUE is the second book in Stefanie London’s dog-oriented contemporary series, PAWS IN THE CITY. This story can easily stand alone. There is no ongoing, intricate back plot. I do recommend reading the previous book to understand the bond Scout shares with her friend Isla. Isla, the heroine from THE DACHSHUND WEARS PRADA, plays a great supporting role throughout this book. It is disappointing that Theo and Camilla did not play a more vital part. They are merely mentioned. However, it is great to witness that continual happily-ever-after.

PETS OF PARK AVENUE is a sweet yet positive tale that proves it is never too late for second chances. I sincerely hope the author writes a story for August! She deserves a happily-ever-after. I cannot wait for the next installment.

Review: Jeffe Kennedy's SHADOW WIZARD

 

Rating: 4.5
Review courtesy of Romance Junkies

Jadren is a scion of House El-Adrel, a powerful wizard family in the Convocation. He is a spy planted by his mother to infiltrate the newly restored House Phel. Jadren cannot help but like the optimists that make up the re-established wizard house, especially Seliah. He tries to ignore his growing fascination with the feral familiar. That proves difficult when they are trapped inside the horrors of Jadren’s birth house. Can Jadren protect Seliah from his mother’s evil intentions? What will he do to ensure she gets back to her brother’s house safely?

Seliah “Selly” Phel is an unbonded and untrained familiar of House Phel. She knows nothing about the Convocation, their laws, or the wizard/familiar hierarchy. Selly has spent most of her adolescence trapped in madness because of her inability to tap into her magic. She is uncertain if she can trust the snarky wizard she is stranded with. However, Selly understands that she must rely on Jadren to survive their current ordeal. Can Seliah breach Jadren’s emotional walls? And what dark secrets will she learn about the enigmatic wizard?

Jadren has been my favorite side character since his introduction in BRIGHT FAMILIAR, book two in the BONDS OF MAGIC series. I am ecstatic he is the main male lead in this new series. I have always had a fondness for snarky, cynically warped characters, and Jadren did not disappoint. I love Jadren’s satirical personality. He wields his sarcasm and sardonic wit as a protection mechanism. No one is exempt from his biting attitude. What I adore the most about Jadren is his protectiveness towards Seliah. He understands her in ways that the others fail to.

It is so great to finally see Seliah’s true personality emerge. She has spent most of the previous series locked in madness brought on by her magic. I adore Seliah’s persistence and tenaciousness. She is bravely learning how to navigate and adapt to this scary new world she belongs to. What I love the most about Seliah is her ability to stand firm against Jadren’s biting cynicism. She senses there is more to the wizard than what he allows others to see. His acerbic guidance helps Selly mature not only as a familiar but a woman too.

SHADOW WIZARD is the first book in Jeffe Kennedy’s new dark fantasy romance series, RENEGADES OF MAGIC, a spinoff from her BONDS OF MAGIC series. It is important to read the previous series before embarking on this story. The BONDS OF MAGIC books set up the intricacies of the author’s world, especially the unbalanced wizard and familiar hierarchy. SHADOW MAGIC picks up where GREY MAGIC, book three, leaves off. Jeffe Kennedy does a brilliant job of touching up on the important parts from the previous books and novella.

I like how the author explores the other houses in the Convocation, allowing readers to glimpse how unfairly familiars are treated. It is great reconnecting with Gabriel, Veronica, Han, Iliana, and Alise again. They all play an important role in the story, some more than the others.

SHADOW WIZARD is a gripping tale of two souls navigating the dark and twisted side of wizards and familiars. This is not a series for anyone squeamish toward abusive situations and implied torture. I cannot wait for more of Jadren and Seliah’s escapades in the next installment.

Review: Kate Bateman's A WICKED GAME

 

Rating: 5
Review courtesy of Romance Junkies

Captain Morgan Davies returns to London after being imprisoned by the enemy, thanks to an inaccurate map. He vows to find the cartographer responsible and make the man pay. Morgan also intends on collecting his sweet reward from the bet he made with his nemesis. His captivity made Morgan realize what he really wants from the sharp-tongued Montgomery. Now he just needs to devise a plan to convince Harriet that they belong together. Can Morgan persuade Harriet to ignore their family’s ancient petty grudge? What lengths will he go to prove his love?

Harriet “Harry” Montgomery is a cartographer. In her father’s stead, she creates defected maps for the Admiralty to use against the French. Harriet has always enjoyed her clashes with the devastatingly handsome Morgan, her natural enemy. She hatches a plan to ensure his return from the war unharmed, in the form of a bet. When he comes to collect his prize, Harriet seizes the chance to enjoy a sensual adventure. However, danger encroaches on their time. Can Harriet trust Morgan’s feelings as true? Or is the handsome captain merely toying with her affections?

Morgan is such a charming and mischievous rascal! I willingly admit he is my favorite Davies. He has this infectious personality that one cannot help but to adore. I like Morgan’s interactions with his older brothers. There were several scenes between them that had me giggling. It is obvious that the Davies’ siblings are close and look out for each other. What I love the most about Morgan is how he recognizes from the start the feelings he has for Harriet. In most books of this genre, the hero is the last person to realize their feelings. Morgan demonstrates his love throughout their childhood and adulthood with small gestures.

Harriet proves to be Morgan’s perfect match. Their personalities compliment the others wonderfully. I admire the sacrifices Harriet has made for her father. She does not wish to inconvenience their family with his care. Instead, Harriet has set aside her dreams of adventure and any hopes for the future. What I love the most about Harriet is the person she becomes around Morgan. She practically comes alive whenever they banter, and neither bears the other any ill will. They simply enjoy clashing their wits together and indulging in one-upping the other.

A WICKED GAME is the third book in Kate Bateman’s historical romance series, RUTHLESS RIVALS. The story can stand-alone, but I strongly advise reading the previous two stories before starting this one. The first book, A RECKLESS MATCH, explains the history behind the Davies and the Montgomery’s century-long feud. There are also scenes in both books that show the blatant attraction brewing between Harriet and Morgan. I finished this book in two sittings. I literally could not put it down and found any excuse to allow me to keep reading.

A WICKED GAME is an enthralling tale of two people forgoing their family’s eons-long enmity to embrace their mutual attraction. I am on pins and needles for the next installment! The epilogue promises there is a Montgomery in Rhys Davies’ future.

REVIEW: Lydia Drake's CINDERELLA AND THE DUKE

 

Review courtesy of Romance Junkies
Rating; 4

Julia Beaumont is a penniless spinster, who desperately wants to escape servitude to her spiteful stepmother. She is determined to secure a potential husband at her friend’s ball. However, Julia risks scandal by rescuing a roguish duke from the unwanted advances of a noblewoman. When the duke returns her slipper, Julia proposes a solution that will benefit them both: a marriage of convenience. They deceive the ton into believing their upcoming nuptials are like a Cinderella fairy tale. Can Julia keep her heart safe from her rakish husband? Or will she become one of his conquests?

Gregory Carter, the Duke of Ashworth, has a reputation as London’s most sought-after rake. He grows weary of fending off married women’s unwanted advances and dueling disgruntled husbands. Gregory attends a friend’s ball only to be accosted by a determined matron, but a mysterious blonde comes to his aid. His savior not only bewitches him with a kiss, but she leaves behind a shoe too. When Gregory returns her slipper, Julia offers him a way to escape his licentious admirers. Can Gregory and Julia continue to fool the ton? Or will he truly and irrevocably fall in love with his wife?

I had a rough time connecting with Julia. There were a few instances when I simply could not stand her. I understand that Julia is a strong-willed woman, one who is not afraid to speak her mind or be herself. However, she came off more bratty than self-independent, like she, being a woman, could do no wrong. I am not a fan of those types of heroines. What I like the most about Julia is her close relationship with her stepsister. She did not let her stepmother’s apathy keep Julia from forming a sisterly bond with Susannah. There was no ill will toward each other but instead genuine affection. Susannah and Julia looked out for each other.

Gregory is not your typical fairytale “princely” type. He is a man disillusioned by the sanctity of marriage and of love. Gregory has witnessed not only the discontent in his parents’ marriage but with most of his peers also. I admire his determination not to follow in that trend, despite his need for an heir. I empathize with Gregory’s insecurity. He has never experienced his parents’ love, and their cool indifference caused Gregory to believe he is undeserving of it. What I like the most about Gregory is his generosity. He secretly helps the less fortunate while letting his peers continue to believe he is a hedonistic rogue.

CINDERELLA AND THE DUKE is Lydia Drake’s debut novel. The author does a great job revamping the classic fairy tale but with a regency-era flare. Julia and Gregory are nothing like the usual cookie-cutter couples typically found in fairytales. The heroine is not the damsel in distress but the knight errant. I also like, and approve, the direction the author took with the stepsister. Those little tweaks and changes made the retelling the author’s own.

CINDERELLA AND THE DUKE is a fun retelling of the classic fairy tale Cinderella, but with an entertaining twist. I wonder if this novel is a one-shot, or if the author plans to write more books to go along with this story. It would be fun if she continues with the fairy tale themes.

Review of Jay Pellegrin's WIZARD'S MASQUERADE

 

Leyna Saunders dreams of becoming a wizard huskarl, a protector of the royal family. She almost loses her chance after a harrowing incident leaves her injured. A mysterious wizard gives Leyna an opportunity to achieve her career goals. Her first task as a huskarl is to escort an annoying jester and his troupe to the royal castle. The man exasperates Leyna at every turn. She soon finds herself deeply entrenched in a dangerous game of intrigue, secrets, and lies. Can Leyna find the true perpetrator behind the king’s death? Is the Jester an ally? Or is he, her foe?

Jester is just one of the many personas he adopts to hide being the king’s spy. He cannot help but taunt the moralistic huskarl escorting him to the castle. There is something about the young woman that fascinates him. News of the king and his court’s demise forces him to include Leyna into his dangerous world. She could prove instrumental in ferreting out the perpetrators behind the massacre and ensuring the crown prince’s safety. Can Jester entrust Leyna with the truth of his identity and his job? Or will her strict morals doom them?

Leyna really annoyed me at the start of the book. She came off as too sanctimonious, self-absorbed, and ambitious for my tastes. However, my opinion of Leyna started to change as the story progressed. Her moments of vulnerability and doubts helped endear her to me. I like how Leyna’s mindset changes for the good. She learns the valuable lesson that the things she wants are always best for her or what she needs. Leyna also realizes that everything is not laid out in black and white, but in shades of gray. This change allows her to adapt to situations and her surroundings.

Jester won my heart instantly! He is such an entertaining and delightful hero. I never thought I would enjoy his character type the way I did. It is a nice change of pace than the usual brooding, alpha warrior-types in the fantasy genre. I absolutely adore Jester’s banter and interaction with Leyna. It helped lighten the serious mood in certain places of the storyline. His ne’er-do-well persona helped balance out Leyna’s strait-laced attitude.  What I love the most about Jester is how he secretly admired Leyna for her single-minded drive. He may have teased her mercilessly about it, but he respected that aspect of her nature.

WIZARD’S MASQUERADE is the first book in Jay Pellegrin’s fantasy romance series, THE HUSKARL DUOLOGY. I believe this is the author’s debut novel. I admit the cover is what first drew me to the book, then the synopsis. The concept of a jester being the hero intrigued me. And it did not disappoint! I found myself quickly and deeply immersed in the plot and characters. The author does a superb job setting up the intricacies of her world, especially their magic system.

WIZARD’S MASQUERADE is a must read for high fantasy readers. It has a little bit of everything from wizards to demons, castles and political intrigue all wrapped in a spellbinding romantical tale. I cannot wait for the next installment!