My review for Amelia Grey's SINCERELY, THE DUKE

  SINCERELY, THE DUKE

Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Amelia Grey

RELEASE DATE:
March 26, 2024

PUBLISHER:
St. Martin’s Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781250850430

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://ameliagrey.com/

 

 

Roderick “Rick” Cosworth, the Duke of Stonerick, co-runs a sporting club that donates its proceeds to charitable organizations. A re-occurring fever reminds him of his mortality and his obligations to his dukedom. Rick randomly chooses a bride from a list of candidates his mother drafted. He promises to help Edwina find suitable husbands for her sisters in exchange for an heir. Rick suspects she is withholding something from him. Will Rick learn Edwina’s secrets? And can he trust her with the truth about his health?

Miss Edwina Fine promises her late father she will find husbands for herself and her sisters. Fate answers her prayers. She receives a marriage proposal from a wealthy duke through the mail. Rick is nothing than what Edwina expected. She hopes he nor the Ton learn about her being a triplet. Can Edwina trust Rick with the secret of her birth? Or will she learn that all her fears and reservations are groundless? And can Edwina keep her deathbed promise to her father?

Rick is a man after my own heart. There are times, and moments, when I too have trouble tolerating people. Plus, I am not a fan of large crowds (just ask my husband during holiday shopping). So, I related with him on that score. What I adore the most about Rick is how he does not put stock in superstitions. He finds most of them laughable or foolish.

Edwina took me a while to warm up too. I can understand her trepidation about being a triplet. She grew up in a time when multiple births (more than two) were rare. They did happen but scarcely did the babes survive. Edwina was taught from a young age to fear people learning about her birth. What I like the most about Edwina is her devotion to completing her father’s deathbed wish. Some people would humor the dead. She took it seriously, to the point she disregarded her sisters’ desires.

SINCERELY, THE DUKE is the second book in Amelia Grey’s historical romance series, SAY I DO. The story can easily stand alone. However, the first book (YOURS TRULY, THE DUKE) explains the reasons behind the sports club Rick and his two ducal friends co-founded. Wyatt and Fredericka, the couple from the prior story, do make a small appearance. I like how the author does not boggle the story or its pacing down with unnecessary sex scenes. The only such scene is not steamy, spicy nor long. Sometimes I feel authors go over-the-top with such scenes.

I cannot wait for Hurst’s book! I wonder how the author plans to continue the letter complimentary closing theme with his book title. Also, I wonder if Eileen will get a book. I sense a story brewing there; one I would be interested in reading.

My review for Amalie Howard's ANY DUKE IN A STORM

 

ANY DUKE IN A STORM
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Amalie Howard

RELEASE DATE:
January 09, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Sourcebooks Casablanca

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781728276762

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://amaliehoward.com/

 

 

Lady Lisbeth Medford is a British spy on special assignment to the American government. She needs to infiltrate a particular smuggling ring, so she can bring its ringleader to justice. To accomplish this, Lisbeth poses as a bloodthirsty female ship captain. During a reckless escape, she finds Raphael Saint on her frigate. The man vexes her, but Lisbeth knows he is her best chance on capturing the elusive Prince of Smugglers. Can Lisbeth resist the temptation of tossing Raphael overboard? Or will he hinder her mission?

 

Raphael Saint is a discredited French duke turned smuggler. He concocted a plan to catch the one responsible for his father’s disgrace and death. When his shipmates mutiny, Raphael finds himself without a boat and incarcerated in an island prison. To elude his nemesis, he offers to be a sailing master on the only ship leaving port. Raphael suspects there is more to his captain than what she lets on. Will Raphael finally get retribution for his late father? Or is there more at stake?

 

Lisbeth did not disappoint me! She is a hard as nails woman who manages to carve a place for herself in a male-dominated profession. Lisbeth proves continuously that she can hold her own, even against men. And I adore her for that! What I like the most about Lisbeth is her mentality about physical entanglements. She must care or trust a person before being intimate with them, no matter their sex.

 

I now consider Raphael one of my literary husbandoes (yes, I am aware the term is often used for anime). Everything about him made me want to swoon, especially his incorrigible demeanor. He made the story so much fun to read! I adore Raphael’s interactions with Lisbeth/Beth. He purposely provoked her at every turn just to get a rise out of her. What I love the most about Raphael is his ability to see the “true” Lisbeth. He saw the woman beneath the hard-as-nails character she played.

 

ANY DUKE IN A STORM is the third book in Amalie Howard’s historical- romance series, DARING DUKES. Unfortunately, I have not read the first two books in this series. However, the story can easily stand alone for there is no on-going plot. The couples from those books are mentioned. Valentine and Bronwyn, the couple from THE DUKE IN QUESTION, do play a small role near the end. I want Narina to grow up quick, so she can put Thorin in place. She is a little spitfire.

 

I have forgotten how much I love and enjoy stories that take place on the ocean. The pirate/smuggler theme never bores me. I practically devoured every page of this book, even foregoing sleep and other duties to read more.

My review of Christi Caldwell's A SURE DUKE

 

A SURE DUKE
Historical Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Christi Caldwell

RELEASE DATE:
January 09, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Montlake

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781662503849

RATING:
5

AUTHOR LINK:
http://christicaldwell.com/

 

 

Lady Alexandra Bradbury has always been curious about her eccentric neighbor’s rooftop dealings. She sneaks off to see for herself, only to encounter the eldest McQuoid son. When disaster leaves her family destitute, Alexandra agrees to a loveless betrothal to an influential yet cold marquess. However, another crisis forces her to travel with Dallin. Alexandra never forgot their magical rooftop interlude. Will Alexandra do what is expected of her? Or will she risk her family’s ruination to be with Dallin?

Lord Dallin McQuoid is the future Earl of Abingdon. He is more interested in the stars than the ton’s gossip and glittery intrigue. Dallin confronts a would-be intruder, only to discover the beautiful yet proper Alexandra Bradbury. When they are to meet again, a year later, he overhears a conversation that alters his opinion of her. However, Dallin finds himself traveling with the lady to prevent a catastrophe from happening to both their families. Can Dallin ignore his heart? Or will he risk family ruin to claim Alexandra as his own?

I could not help but empathize with Alexandra. She is a woman who has always done what is expected of her, regardless how it chafed. Alexandra knew no other way until Dallin. He and his family’s unique dynamics opened her eyes to other possibilities. I like that. What I admire the most about Alexandra is her willingness to sacrifice herself for her sisters. She wanted to safeguard their future happiness and security.

Dallin is such a love! He knows how the peerage views his family’s unconventional interests and ways. And Dallin is not bothered by it. I adore that about him! He is also fiercely protective over his large, boisterous family, even though some annoy him. What I love the most about Dallin is how he differs from other aristocratic lords. He does not look down on servants or commoners. Instead, Dallin treats them as equals and with common courtesy.

A SURE DUKE is the third installment in Christi Caldwell’s historical romance series, MCQUOIDS OF MAYFAIR. I strongly suggest reading this delightfully fun series from the beginning. The first book shows the McQuoid families’ quirks and eccentricities. The second explains what started the strife between the McQuoids and the Duke of Talbert. I practically devoured this book in two settings, even forwent sleep to finish.

I just want to say I fell in love with this Scottish family since book one. They are not your typical snobbish, aristocratic family. I cannot stress how happy I am that the author decided to write more books about them. I do hope (hint hint) that Christi will pair a McQuoid with the jilted son AND daughter of the Duke of Talbert. That would be a fun enemies-to-lovers story!

Review for Christina Britton's THE DUKE'S ALL THAT

 

THE DUKE’S ALL THAT
Historical Romance

 

 AUTHOR:

Christina Britton

RELEASE DATE:
February 06, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Forever (Grand Central Publishing)

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781538710449

RATING:
4

AUTHOR LINK:
http://christinabritton.com/

 

 

Iain MacInnes, the new Duke of Balgair, receives startling news about his late wife: that she is not dead but currently living on the Isle of Synne. He wants a divorce; however, he first needs to bring Seraphia before the Court of Sessions to gain one. Iain tries to keep his heart closed to her, but the trip to Scotland brings eye-opening revelations. Can Iain convince Seraphina to stay married to him? Or will he lose her all over again?

Miss Seraphina Athwart co-owns a circulating library on the Isle of Synne.  She will do anything to keep her tragic past secret from her sisters and friends, even accompany her estranged husband to Scotland. However, they both discover the vicious lies that tore them apart thirteen years ago. Will Seraphina accept their second chance? Or will she allow her inner demons to keep them apart for good?

Iain is a man ruled by anger. He channeled that emotion to help him better improve his station in life. I like despite his need for revenge, Iain never once mistreated Seraphina during their trip. He did keep an emotional barrier between them to protect himself, which is relatable. I also like how, once the truth was revealed, Ian did not keep his anger towards Seraphina. He did war between whether to continue with the divorce or attempt to win her back.

Seraphina had endured so much horror and suffering. She, like Iain, is a victim of a lie. I admire the many sacrifices Seraphina made to protect and to ensure her sisters’ futures. They even managed to make a new life for themselves on Synne without any man’s assistance. There were times when I wanted to throttle Seraphina. I understand her altruistic reason for continuing with the divorce. Respect it even.  I just wished the truth about her past would come out sooner so they could work it out.

THE DUKE’S ALL THAT is the third book in Christina Britton’s historical romance series, SYNNEFUL SPINSTERS. The story can easily stand by itself. There is no on-going plot spilling over from the previous ones. Bronwyn and Ash and Katrina and Sebastian, the couples from the other books, make appearances. I wonder if this is the last of the series, especially after the revealing development with the two remaining oddments.

I wanted to love this book like I did the previous two. I just had trouble getting invested in the characters and the storyline. It just fell flat with me. I honestly expected Seraphina’s father to play a more villainous role in the story. I think that would have helped me engage with the characters’ plight a bit more. I thoroughly enjoyed Phineas, the parrot, and his penchant for inappropriate phrases. He livened up the story.

Review for Julie Anne Long's MY SEASON OF SCANDAL

 

MY SEASON OF SCANDAL
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Julie Anne Long

RELEASE DATE:
April 23, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Avon and Harper Voyager

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780063280953

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
http://www.julieannelong.com/

 

 

Lord Dominic Kirke is a Mp renowned for his stirring speeches in the House of Commons. After his house catches fire, he stays at a unique boarding house near the docks. Dominic encounters a wholesome country girl with an uncanny ability to penetrate his cynical armor. Against his better judgement, he helps Catherine with her season. However, his help comes with repercussions. Will Kirke’s reputation ruin Catherine’s chances amongst the peerage? Or will she encourage him to love again?

Catherine Keating is the only daughter of a small-town physician. She travels to London to experience a Season and to possibly find a suitable husband. However, Catherine soon learns that is far more cutthroat than she imagined. At her boarding house, she meets a cynical yet closed-off gentleman. Even though Dominic may be her only ally, he is all wrong for her. Can Catherine learn to hold her own amongst the Ton? Will she be able to resist Dominic’s sardonic allure?

Dominic is the reason why I picked up this book. I could never resist a broody, standoffish, cynical hero. And he did NOT disappoint me! I love how protective Dominic became of Catherine. He wanted to keep the snobs from the peerage from dimming her inner light. Dominic liked that Catherine was not conniving or fake like others in his social sphere.

I can see many people not liking Catherine. She does come off too Mary Sue at times. However, I think she counter-balances Dominic perfectly. She is sunny and wholesome to his dark and jadedness. I like how Catherine can see the real Dominic beneath all that cynicism. Plus, she does not retreat or balk at his cutting personality or wit.

MY SEASON OF SCANDAL is the seventh book in Julie Anne Long’s historical romance series, THE PALACE OF ROGUES. This story can stand alone. Sadly, I have not read the previous six books. That did not hinder my ability to follow the plot and storyline. Fans of this series will like that Delilah and Tristan from LADY DERRING TAKES A LOVER, book one, and Angelique and Lucien from ANGEL IN A DEVIL’S ARMS, book two, make frequent appearances throughout the book.

The only nitpick I have is the ending. It got a little long-winded. There were parts that sounded more like the author “telling” readers the couples’ future. All-in-all, I enjoyed the plot and characters enough to pick up future books by this author.

Review for Donna Grant's REIGN

 REIGN

Historical-Fantasy Romance

 

 

 AUTHOR:

Donna Grant

RELEASE DATE:
November 7, 2023

PUBLISHER:
DL Grant, LLC

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781958353073

RATING:
4

AUTHOR LINK:
https://donnagrant.com/

 

 

Malene is the Lady of the Varroki. After battling the Coven leader, she wakes far from home without any memories of her former life. Malene adorns a new identity, a witch named Dagny who thirsts for power. However, Armir stands in her way. The man whisks Dagny to an isolated cave, and he claims to know her. Can Dagny escape her cavern prison? Dare she trust Armir? And will he be beneficial to Dagny regaining her memories as Malene?

Armir is considered The Lady of the Varroki’s instructor, protector, and right-hand man. He has always loved Malene, but he knows a romance between them is taboo. After her disappearance, Armir refuses to believe she is dead. When Malene returns but as Dagny, he is determined to keep her from doing despicable things. Will Armir finally act on his attraction to Malene/Dagny? Can he convince Dagny to give up her quest for power?

I could not connect with Malene. She just fell flat with me. I really tried to like her but could not.

I love Armir’s dedication to Malene. When everyone else, including the Varroki, believed she died, he never gave up hope on finding her alive. Armir instead searched the world for her. He also refused to allow her, as Dagny, to do something that Malene would regret.

REIGN is the third and final book in Donna Grant’s Historical-Fantasy romance series, KINDRED: THE FATED. I suggest reading the five books in THE KINDRED before delving into KINDRED: THE FATED. The former books set up the world, the situation it is in, and the Varroki people. Malene and Armir play important roles there, leading up to this story.

Review for Anna Bennett's IT TAKES A RAKE

 

IT TAKES A RAKE
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Anna Bennett

RELEASE DATE:
January 23, 2024

PUBLISHER:
St. Martin’s Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781250793959

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://annabennettauthor.com/

 

 

Miss Kitty Becket plans on pursuing her dreams of becoming an architect. Bellehaven Bay’s first architectural design contest may be her chance to accomplish it. Kitty knows she needs her childhood rival’s expertise with numbers to win. In exchange for his help, she agrees to turn him into a rake. Kitty never expected Leo to take to his lessons so well… Or the way her heart behaves around him. Can Kitty entrust Leo with all her hopes and dreams? Or will he ultimately betray her trust?

Leo Lockland is a strait-laced architect with a knack for numbers and calculations. He leaves behind a promising architectural practice in London to help his widowed mother. Leo has never forgotten his childhood nemesis nor his feelings for her. He intends to pursue her at any cost, even become a rake. Leo’s deeply guarded secrets may destroy any possibility he has of winning her. Can Leo convince Kitty to take a chance with him? Or will he lose his chance with her?

Leo and Kitty are great examples of opposites attract. Not only in their personalities but in their architectural interests. Kitty likes decorative and whimsical designs, whereas Leo prefers clean lines and aesthetics. It is nice to see Kitty’s growth in the background of the first two books. I admire her determination in following her dreams, despite public’s restrictions on women. Kitty even knows her strengths and weaknesses in that regard. Leo is a love. I like how he believes in and recognizes Kitty’s talent.

IT TAKES A RAKE is the third book in Anna Bennett’s historical romance series, ROGUES TO LOVERS. This story can stand alone, but it is better to read the prior ones before this. The first book, GIRLS BEFORE EARLS, introduces the setting – a charming yet picturesque seaside town called Bellehaven Bay. We also meet Kitty and learn about her circumstances.

I love how the couples from the previous books make appearances throughout the story. It is great to see how Poppy and Kean and Blade and Hazel’s lives are progressing. I do hope this is not the end of this entertaining series. I can see the author continuing with Clara and Lucy – Blade and Hazel’s adoptive daughters. They deserve their own happily-ever-after.

Review for STAR-CROSSED by Kerrigan Byrne and Cynthia St. Aubin

 

STAR-CROSSED
Contemporary Romance

  

 AUTHOR:
Kerrigan Byrne and Cynthia St. Aubin

RELEASE DATE:
October 24, 2023

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0C8C1S1M7

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.kerriganbyrne.com/  and https://www.cynthiastaubin.com/

 

 

Lyra McKendrick is a former hotshot, New England defense attorney. She moves back to her small, touristry hometown after a terrible breakup. Lyra finds herself working at the local new-age shop that neighbors her twin’s store. When a historic tree damages the shop’s plumbing, she reluctantly calls the one person who can help. Lyra and Cypress have history, one she wants to remain firmly in the past. However, fate has other plans.

Cypress “Cy” Forrester comes from a family of arborists. Around town, the locals refer to him as “Cy the Tree Guy”. When Lyra calls him about a tree problem, Cypress comes to her aid. Seeing her again reminds Cy of their past encounter, one he never forgotten. He likes Lyra’s prickly, no-nonsense nature, but she is not interested in a relationship. However, fate keeps tempting them by crossing their paths.

I like how Lyra is not as perfect as people believed. She has her own set of problems to confront and deal with. At first, especially in BAZAAR GIRLS, I did not like her that much. Lyra came off too cold and vitriolic for my tastes. However, my opinion of her changed near the end of book three.

I LOVE that Cy is a closet gamer and fantasy nerd. I freely admit to geeking out on the many Dungeons and Dragons references. It made me fall head over heels in love with him. Now if only he was into anime… LOL. I am not that familiar with LEAGUE OF LEGENDS, just the name because it is my oldest son’s favorite game.

STAR-CROSSED is the fourth installment in Kerrigan Byrne and Cynthia St. Aubin’s romantic-comedy series, TOWNSEND HARBOR. This series needs to be read in proper order. The story picks up after the events in BAZZAAR GIRLS, book three. The couples from the previous three books crop up continuously throughout the story. FYI – Gabe still makes me swoon!

I like how this series centers around characters who suffer from real life problems. They are less-than-perfect, and that makes them so identifiable. This book touches on autism and prosthesis.

I hope this is not the end of Townsend Harbor. Kiki, Cy’s sister, needs a book!

Review for Donna Grant's SHADOW MAGIC

 

SHADOW MAGIC
Historical-Paranormal Romance

 

 AUTHOR:

Donna Grant

RELEASE DATE:
October 10, 2023

PUBLISHER:
DL Grant, LLC

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780985371388

RATING:
4

AUTHOR LINK:
https://donnagrant.com/

 

 

Serena is a bana-bhuidseach, a cursed witch destined to live a solitary life. She knows the danger her kind faces when they fall in love with another. Serena knows that Drogan is dangerous to her heart. When she foresees her friend and his family’s demise, she intends to change their fate. But Serena needs Drogan’s help to achieve it. Can Serena break her curse? Will she be able to protect her friends and Drogan against the evil hunting them?

Drogan is a titled lord and knight of the king. He is haunted by the sins of his past. Drogan pays his brother-in-arms a visit, and he meets a bewitching woman who banishes the darkness that surrounds him. When he learns of the threat against his friend and his family, he offers to help Serena protect them. Can Drogan exorcise the darkness consuming him? Or will he lose Serena to her curse?

Serena came off too lukewarm and bland for my tastes. I just could not connect or empathize with her character. However, I did admire the sacrifices Serena was prepared to pay to keep her friends safe. It shows just how much she cares and appreciates Gerard, Maris, and little Jocelyn.

I am a sucker for a good wounded/tortured hero. Drogan fit the bill. He is a man haunted by his past deeds. I like how Dragon refused to let Gerard face evil alone. He gave him and his family aid in their time of need. It also allowed him to finally face his past sins and overcome it.

SHADOW MAGIC is the first book in Donna Grant’s paranormal-historical romance series, SISTERS OF MAGIC. This is an older story that the author revamped and fixed editing issues. It took me a while to get into the storyline and characters. Some areas dragged. However, Grant’s take on witches intrigued me. I like how they had peculiar weaknesses, gifts, and limitations. My only nitpick – the second half of the story felt boggled down by unnecessary sex scenes.

 

Review for Kate Bateman's SECOND DUKE'S THE CHARM

 

SECOND DUKE’S THE CHARM
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Kate Bateman

RELEASE DATE:
December 26, 2023

PUBLISHER:
St. Martin’s Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781250907363

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.kcbateman.com/

 

 

Tess Townsend finds herself widowed after her much older husband dies on their wedding night. And still a virgin. She starts an investigation firm with her two friends to help less fortunate women. After much deliberation, Tess agrees to a marriage of convenience with the new duke. However, her latest case – a request from the Queen – may cause trouble for Tess and Justin’s budding relationship. Will Justin interfere in Tess’s latest investigation? Can she catch the culprit without destroying her marriage?

Justin Thornton owns a successful trading company. Much to his disgruntlement, he learns that he inherited a dukedom. Justin is shocked to discover the Dowager Duchess is not some crone but a beautiful young lady. And she happens to be the mystery woman he encountered at his friend’s party. Justin proposes a solution that could benefit them both, a marriage of convenience. However, he knows his new wife is keeping secrets. Will Justin learn Tess’s secrets? And will they cost them their marriage?

I love the deep bond that Tess shares with Ellie and Daisy. The three women are willing to go to the extremes to help and protect the other. Ellie and Daisy also help Tess become are of the pros of her new windfall. What I admire the most about Tess is her decision to use her independence to help other women in need. She and her friends know what little rights or help women received in that era. They wanted to help others escape bad fates or situations.

I understand Justin’s cynicism towards love. He had witnessed his father’s deterioration after his mother’s passing. For a young child that would form a lasting impression. What I love the most about Justin is how he admired and approved of Tess’s business sense. He knew there was more to her than just looks. Justin even encouraged her to continue than holding her back.

SECOND DUKE’S THE CHARM is the first book in Kate Bateman’s brand-new historical romance series, HER MAJESTY’S REBELS. I decided to try out the author’s latest series since I adored her RUTHLESS RIVALS books. It did not disappoint me! I found myself quickly immersed in the storyline and characters. I cannot wait to see who Bateman will pair Ellie and Daisy, Tess’s two best friends, up with. I am kind of hoping Daisy will be paired up with Ellie’s cousin, who happens to be Justin’s friend, Edward Hussey. It feels like it would be a recipe for disaster or fun.

Review for Sabrina Jeffries' ACCIDENTALLY HIS

 

ACCIDENTALLY HIS
Historical Romance

 

 

 AUTHOR:

Sabrina Jeffries

RELEASE DATE:
January 23, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Kensington Books, Zebra

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781420153811

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://sabrinajeffries.com/

 

 

Colonel Raphael “Rafe” Wolfford is an heir presumptive to a viscounty. He is also a spy for the English government. Rafe has been investigating the sisters who own Elegant Occasions. He suspects an enemy spy is associated with the Harpers. To further his mission, Rafe pretends to court the youngest sister. However, he never anticipated how intuitive the lady is or his attraction to her. Can Rafe keep Verity from learning about his identity? Will he find the person responsible for selling information to the French?

Lady Verity Harper is no stranger to scandal. She handles the menu and the food for the party planner business she co-owns with her two sisters. Verity never forgets a face, so she is determined to unmask the mystery man who has been infiltrating their events. She suspects Raphael, her newest suitor. The handsome man comes to her rescue when Verity’s former fiancé tries to ruin her. Can Verity trust Rafe with her heart? And will she discover who the mystery man truly is?

Rafe is such a fun and enjoyable hero! He has this infectious charm about him that appealed to me. I could not help but fall helplessly in love with him (who wouldn’t?). I admire Rafe’s determination to finish his uncle’s last investigation. It shows just how much the man truly meant to him. Yeah, Rafe also had ulterior motives for continuing the investigation. What I love the most about Rafe is how he openly admired Verity and her personality. He liked that she was not like other society ladies but a woman who did not conform to her peers.

Verity has been through a lot. First her parents, especially her father’s domineering ways. Then weathering a scandal caused by her parents. I admire Verity and her two sisters for coming out of that situation stronger. They refused to bow down to society’s censor and their father’s disapproval. Instead, they found a path that complimented them. I understand Verity’s reluctance to open her heart to another, especially after what happened with her former fiancé.

ACCIDENTALLY HIS is the third and final book in Sabrina Jeffries’ historical romance series, DESIGNING DEBUTANTES. I recommend reading the prior two books before this one. It can stand alone. However, the first book explains the Harper sisters’ circumstances and their reasons for starting Elegant Occasions. Both books show how Verity noticed the mystery man at their party events. I love how the couples from the prior books play important roles in the storyline. It is great seeing how both (Diana and her duke, Geoffrey and Eliza with her earl, Nathaniel) are settling in their new wedded lives.

I am sad that this series has ended. I always look forward to any story/book Sabrina Jeffries brings out. I cannot wait to see what the author is working on next.

Review for Christi Caldwell's THE DIAMOND AND THE DUKE

 

THE DIAMOND AND THE DUKE
Historical Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Christi Caldwell

RELEASE DATE:
February 20, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Berkley Publishing Group

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780593334959

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
http://christicaldwell.com/

 

 

Lady Eleanor “Ellie” Balfour plans to never marry. She has her reasons for becoming a spinster, one she does not wish to share with anyone. There is one man who could possibly change Ellie’s m ind about matrimony. However, he is a man embittered and ravaged by war. She refuses to allow Wesley’s surliness to thwart her intentions of helping him heal. Can Ellie give Wesley a reason to live? Will she reveal why she is so averse to marriage?

Captain Wesley Audley returns from the Napoleonic War a broken shell of a man. He wants nothing more than to isolate himself from the world, including his family. There is, however, one person who refuses to allow Wesley to molder away in depression. Ellie Balfour is no longer the little girl he remembers from the past, but a woman grown. With Ellie’s help, can Wesley learn to cope with his injuries?

Ellie is my favorite Balfour. She made DESPERATELY SEEKING A DUCHESS entertaining to read. I could not request this book fast enough, once I found out it was her story! I respect Ellie’s decision not to marry. After years of enduring her father’s abuse, she did not want to exchange one for another. Women had no rights in that time-period. What I adore the most about Ellie is how she refused to allow Wesley to wallow in darkness. She never once treated him as an invalid but as a whole person.

I have always been a sucker for the wounded and tortured types.  And Wesley did not disappoint me! I like how the author did not miraculous “cure” or “heal” him. Instead, we witness his slow journey of acceptance and healing. How it sometimes takes a kindred soul to help another confront their mental demons and heal. Wesley needed that.

THE DIAMOND AND THE DUKE is the third book in Christi Caldwell’s historical romance series, ALL THE DUKE’S SINS. I recommend reading this series in proper order. Yeah, the story can standalone. However, the first two explain the Audley family history and dynamics. The second book introduces the Balfours and their family circumstances. Plus, the couples from the prior books pop up throughout the story. I like that we get to meet Rafe and Edwina and Cailin and Courtland’s children.

I cannot wait to see who Hattie’s mystery love is? And Hunter is the last unmarried Audley. I wonder if the author plans to pair them together or someone entirely new for both. I am cool either way. Also, I hope Keir Balfour gets a book too!

My only nitpick. I have grown attached to the Balfours. I wanted each sibling to have their own book, a spinoff series. They, the Balfours, deserve a happy-ever-after. So, I was bummed to learn that Lottie married.

Review for Kara Aomiya's SUPER MORNING STAR, Volume 1

 SUPER MORNING STAR

 Volume 1
Boy’s Love

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Kara Aomiya

RELEASE DATE:
October 10, 2023

PUBLISHER:
Kodansha Comics

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781646519934

RATING:
4.5

 

 

Opposites attract! Kaido has a delinquent façade, which causes people to keep their distance. Honda’s easy-going and friendly personality makes him popular at school. Then one day, Honda happens upon Kaido’s secret: that he is a sentai superhero star. This allows him to see his quiet and reserved classmate in a new way.

 

This was a cute and quick read. There were some parts when Honda irked me.  Mostly his obsessiveness and jealousy towards Kaido. Other than that, I enjoyed the storyline and characters.

 

Kaido reminds me of Ryuuji Takasu from Toradora! They both have appearances that makes their classmates assume they are troublemakers when that is far from the truth. Both are gentle souls. I like Kaido’s determination. He is slowly working to achieve his dreams.

Review for Jill Shalvis' THE BRIGHT SPOT

 

THE BRIGHT SPOT
Contemporary Romance / Women’s Fiction

 

 AUTHOR:

Jill Shalvis

RELEASE DATE:
January 16, 2024

PUBLISHER:
Avon and Harper Voyager

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780063235755

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.jillshalvis.com/

 

 

Luna Wright manages a farm in Sunrise Cove, California. She considers her co-workers as her makeshift family since Luna knows nothing about her biological family. When her boss Silas passes away, Luna discovers she inherited fifty percent of the farm, along with other startling news. She must work with a partner, the person who owns the other fifty percent, to save the farm from investors. Will Luna figure out a way to save Apple Ridge Farm? Can she trust Jameson with both the farm’s welfare and her heart?

Jameson Hayes is an investment manager and Silas’ former business associate. He promises Silas that he would help Luna make the farm profitable. Jameson never expected to be attracted to his new partner… or be charmed by the farm and its motley occupants. He tries to figure out a way to pay off the money the farm owes to investors. Did Jameson finally find the place he truly belongs? Or will he and Luna fail to save the farm?

Luna and Jameson have a lot in common. They both suffer from trust and abandonment issues, making it difficult letting others in. The latter never found a place where he truly belonged until Apple Ridge Farm. Luna gathered the people she felt comfortable with to form her own place of belongness. Their shared issues helps them understand and relate to each other.

I love the type of friend Luna is to Willow. She gave her friend space when demanded, even though it hurt to stay away. No matter Willow’s cranky demeanor, Luna never gave up on her. She showed up when Willow needed her the most.

Jameson really showed amazing growth. At first, he was a little aloof, but eventually he came around. Jameson could not resist Apple Ridge Farm nor its occupants. He allowed himself to open up to the people there and found the acceptance he craved. What I adore the most about Jameson is how a certain goat wormed into his affections. I love their interactions.

THE BRIGHT SPOT is the fifth book in Jill Shalvis’ contemporary romance series, SUNRISE COVE. Each book in this series stands alone. The only reoccurring thing each story has is the setting: Sunrise Cove, a town near Lake Taho in California. However, I did squee when a certain bakery from THE SWEETHEART LIST (book four) is hinted at. What I enjoyed the most from THE BRIGHT SPOT is a certain grandmother (she’s a riot!) and a certain adorable goat!

I love the feel-good vibes Jill Shalvis brings to her stories! She never disappoints. The author knows how to inject the right amount of humor to balance out serious topics.