Review for Shana Galen's "A SHOP GIRL’S GUIDE TO WOOING A LORD"

 

A SHOP GIRL’S GUIDE TO WOOING A LORD
Historical Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Shana Galen

RELEASE DATE:
June 09, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Berkley Publishing Group

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9798217188512

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://shanagalen.com/

 

 

Tamsin Archer will do anything to keep her family together and fed, even stealing from wealthy nobles. Her luck takes a turn when she is nearly caught by Garrett Kildaire, a handsome noble who she never thought to see again. Tamsin is wary of his promise to help her locate and rescue her missing siblings. She knows better than to lose her heart to Garrett since they come from different worlds. Will Tamsin be reunited with her siblings? And can she bring herself to part ways with Garrett once they are safe?

Gearoid “Garrett” Kildaire is the second son of an Irish lord. When his father reveals their family’s monetary troubles, he comes up with a solution. Garrett proposes that he and his brothers marry wealthy heiresses to help restore their dwindling finances. He never anticipated Tamsin or her dire situation. He knows he should pursue a rich bride, but he wants to help Tamsin more. Will Garrett choose to sacrifice his love for Tamsin to save his family from financial ruin?

My heart went out to Tamsin. She is such a resilient and remarkable woman. Tamsin has endured starvation, poverty, and unimaginable hardships – things people tend to overlook to feel better about themselves. I admire how she never once gave up hope of reuniting with her younger siblings. Every risk that Tamsin took was for their benefit and their handicapped mother.

Garrett surprised me. At first, he comes off as a carefree nobleman who delights in cavorting with his friends and little else. I love Garrett’s willingness to step up when his family needed him. He refused to allow his younger sister to sacrifice her future for him and their brothers. What I like the most about Garrett is how his world expanded once he met Tamsin. He glimpsed into her world, and it changed him for the better.

A SHOP GIRL’S GUIDE TO WOOING A LORD is the first book in Shana Galen’s upcoming new series, THE HEIRESS HUNTERS. This story is my first introduction to Galen’s works. I know she is a popular author (and having seen other readers gush about her books). I just never gotten around to trying out one of her stories until now. And boy, it did NOT disappoint! I practically devoured this book in one setting. I even rearranged my daily “to-do” list so I could finish. I am looking forward to the next installment of this series!

What I like the best about this series (so far) is the Kildaire family and their Irish roots.  It is no secret that I am a sucker for anything Irish or Scottish when it comes to books. And I especially love how each Kildaire brother has a Gaelic name. That is the first thing I noticed about the family!

Review for Sofie Darling's MISS WINDERMERE WOOS A HIGHLANDER

 

MISS WINDERMERE WOOS A HIGHLANDER
Historical Romance

 

AUTHOR:
Sofie Darling

RELEASE DATE:
February 03, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0G152Z93K

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://sofiedarling.com/

 

 

Miss Juliet Windermere harbors a secret infatuation for her cousin’s friend, Rory MacBeth. She is determined to let go of those feelings when he remarks that she resembles the woman he likes back in Scotland. Juliet accompanies her cousin to visit family acquaintances in Scotland, whose lands ironically neighbors Rory’s. She offers to write a poem for him to help win the affection of his lady. Juliet’s good intentions turn awry with a kiss in the rain. Will Juliet be able to let Rory go once he wins his lady’s regard?

Lord Rory MacBeth, Viscount Kilmuir always believed that Juliet Windermere disliked him. He decides to no longer pursue his beautiful neighbor after she rejects his marriage proposal. When the Windermere comes to visit his neighbors, Rory starts to notice Juliet. He also discovers her talent for writing poetry and stories. Rory accepts Juliet’s offer of help, so he can spend more time with her. Can Rory convince Juliet that SHE is the one that he wants, not his neighbor?

In the prior two books, it is evident of Juliet’s one-sided infatuation. And Rory being oblivious. That build-up in the background made me anticipate their story!

I like how Juliet is the less “wild” Windermere. She does possess a wild streak; however, her reasonable nature holds it in check. There are moments when Juliet allows it to peek through.

Rory, and his demeanor, always made me think “gentle giant”. He did not portray the whole coarse Highlander mentality or arrogance. I adore how Rory took his responsibilities as a titled noble seriously. He did not shirk the duties onto a servant but became hands-on in running his land.

MISS WINDERMERE WOOS A HIGHLANDER is the fourth book in Sofie Darling’s historical romance series, WINDERMERES IN LOVE. This story, along with the previous three, is short (novella length) – which allows them to be a quick read. Like the others, I finished this book in one setting. Sadly, the couples from the other books do not make appearances, just mentioned. And the annoying Oliver Quincy plays a part in the story.

Delilah and Sebastian are next. I like the tangible tension growing between them in the background. I cannot wait for it to be explored thoroughly in their book!

Review for Jeffe Kennedy's "LOVE, LIES, AND FEY LINES"

 

LOVE, LIES, AND LEY LINES
Fantasy

 

AUTHOR:
Jeffe Kennedy

RELEASE DATE:
January 20, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Brightlynx Publishing, Inc

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781958679883

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.jeffekennedy.com/home

 

 

Bandit, aka Cha, is a (mostly) human ley rider who makes a living from racing since her partner went legit. She and Goldilocks used to be celebrated as “the best of the best” when it came to smuggling. When she gets an offer too tempting to refuse, Cha persuades her friend to undertake one last run. Goldilocks reluctantly agrees, despite her doubts. Along the way, Bandit picks up an enigmatic yet handsome hitchhiker – who happens to be fleeing from his wedding. Hijinks ensue. Who is the mysterious man that Bandit picked up? And will she and Goldilocks pull off their task successfully?

It did take me some time to cozy up and like Cha, Goldilocks and Azul. I like Bandit and Goldilocks’ bond. They have been friends since school. So, they know about the other’s weaknesses and strengths. This allows them to synchronize. I dislike what Goldilocks and her wife did to Cha. In part, I understand why. Still, it feels wrong.

What I enjoy the most is Cha and Azul’s byplay. Azul does not know how to deal with Cha’s brand of chaos… but she grows on him. Their banter/flirtation entertained me.

LOVE, LIES, AND LEY LINES is the first book in Jeffe Kennedy’s new fantasy romance series, THE FAST AND THE FAE. The story starts out slowly. Which is normal because the author needs to introduce the world, its dynamics, and the characters. I admit it took me a while to get into the story and characters.

The momentum picks up once Bandit and Goldilocks start their journey. That is when the story takes on a gender-bend, fantasy-like Smokey and the Bandit (yeah shows my age!). Which totally works for me. That got me fully interested and invested in the plot and characters. I even told my husband about it; he is a huge fan of SatB.

I do have one small nitpick. It is very minor. Usually, such terms do not bother me. However, every time Bandit used it, it threw me off. I guess I had a rough time taking it seriously. Nothing that will keep me from reading the rest of the series…

I did notice the series’ name is another take on a car-themed movie. I wonder if the next two books will be inspired by such movies. If so, it will be fun to guess what movie. My curiosity is now piqued! I cannot wait for the next installment.

Review for Sara Bennett's SECOND CHANCE PRINCE

 

SECOND CHANCE PRINCE
Historical Romance

 

AUTHOR:
Sara Bennett

RELEASE DATE:
May 19, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Forever

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781538723852

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://sara-bennett.com/

 

 

Prince Nikolai (Niki) of Holtswig visits his aunt in London until the unrest in his country calms down. He has never forgotten his time with the Ashton family, especially one young woman. When someone tries to assassinate him, Niki allows the British government to protect him. He needs to pretend to be engaged to an Englishwoman. Niki will have none other than Roberta Ashton to pose as his fake fiancé. Will Niki learn the identity of the one behind the assassination attempts? And will his and Roberta’s sham engagement become real?

Roberta Ashton’s family is no stranger to scandal. She has learned to subdue her wild nature while amongst her peers. Roberta fondly remembers her infatuation with Nikolai during his last stay in England. When someone tries to kill him in her presence, she agrees to a fake engagement to protect him. Roberta knows she is the wrong woman for Niki, but she cannot help but to want to be his real fiancé. Will their ruse have the desired effect? Can Roberta let Niki go once he is free from the danger?

This book really changed my original opinions on Nikolai. His arrogant and pompous demeanor is all a front, one that has been hammered into him since childhood. It has also become a defense mechanism for him; one Niki uses to hide his awkwardness and shyness. What I like the most about Nikolai is how he secretly admired Roberta’s true nature. He hated seeing her dampen it down.

Roberta has really come a long way. I half expected her to continually thumb her nose at her peers and their expectations. Instead, Roberta learned to play their game while not forgoing her true nature. She just knows when to let it free and when to reign it in. What I adore the most about Roberta is how she truly saw Niki. She saw the socially awkward man beneath the cold, pompous demeanor. Roberta also picked up clues when Niki became nervous or agitated over something.

SECOND CHANCE PRINCE is the third book in Sara Bennett’s historical romance series, ROMANCING THE DUKES. It is better to start the series from the start. DREAMING OF A DUKE LIKE YOU, book one, introduces the Ashton family and the scandal that surrounds them. In book two, MY SECRET DUKE, shows how Roberta and Nikolai first met. I do remember secretly hoping they would end up together. Glad the author made it happen! Gabriel and Vivienne and Olivia and Ivo do make appearances throughout the story.

I did have one small nitpick. Freddie and his happily-ever-after. I remember, going into this book, wondering if the author intends to introduce his destined partner. Sara Bennett does. Unfortunately, it is a background romance like Justina and Charles and Annette and Harold. It felt like a major let down. And I am not wild about his choice. I still cannot pinpoint what about her that disagrees with me so.

I wonder if Antonia will be the next Ashton to receive a book. The other two Ashton sisters are too young. I have a suspicion… And I hope Niki’s younger brother gets a book, but I suspect HIS story will be a background romance too.

Review of Jeffe Kennedy's "Magic Reborn"

 

MAGIC REBORN
(Dark) Fantasy Romance

 

 

AUTHOR:
Jeffe Kennedy

RELEASE DATE:
December 30, 2025

PUBLISHER:
Brightlynx Publishing, Inc

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781958679807

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.jeffekennedy.com/home

 

 

Alise Elal manages to escape her egocentric father with her beloved, Cillian Harahel’s help. They race to reunite with their friends and family at the academy, so they can unlock the secrets buried within a concealed archive. There are enemies who wish for those secrets to remain locked away and hidden… And allies who want the information exposed. Will Cillian’s library magic help find the key to unlock the cypher on the archives? Will Alise be strong enough to confront her father for good? And will the secrets within the archives change the wizard and familiar dynamic forever?

Alise and Cillian have come into their own. They each have their own strengths, weaknesses, and gifts. Both came into the other’s life when they needed them the most. I like how Cillian knows when to be firm and patient with Alise. He does not let her wallow in self-pity, self-doubt, or guilt. And Alise knows she can depend on Cillian.

MAGIC REBORN is the final book in Jeffe Kennedy’s dark fantasy romance trilogy, WARRIORS OF MAGIC – a continuation of her two series, BONDS OF MAGIC and RENEGADES OF MAGIC. It also completes the entire saga. I strongly recommend reading the prior trilogies before this one. The couples from those books play important roles in this story. There were some parts at the end that felt a tad rushed. Overall, I am happy with the way things have ended. And I’m a little sad to see this series finished.

I am happy that Jadren and Seliah play pivotal parts in this book (Nic and Gabriel do too). Jadren has always been my favorite since his introduction in BONDS OF MAGIC. I love his twisted, snarky, and sardonic personality. And I also like how well Jadren and Cillian get along. They seem the unlikeliest of friends. I will miss Jadren the most.

Review for Sofie Darling's "Lord Archer Catches a Contessa"

 

LORD ARCHER CATCHES A CONTESSA
Historical Romance

 

AUTHOR:
Sofie Darling

RELEASE DATE:
January 06, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Oliver Heber Books

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
B0G15DWZ4D

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://sofiedarling.com/

 

 

Lord Daniel Windermere, Archie to those close to him, is known for his affable and jovial personality. He is a music connoisseur, who is talented in both piano and music composition. Archie visits a lesser reputed music hall in search of inspiration to help him through a creative block. And he finds it in the form of an untrained mezzosoprano. When he foils Valentina’s plans, Archie agrees to help her formulate a new one. Will Archie realize that Valentina is more to him than just a muse?

Miss Valentina Hart is the only daughter of an apothecary. When her family falls victim to a swindler, she forms a strategy to recover their fortune. Valentina’s attempt fails thanks to a certain golden-haired noble – who introduces an elaborate plan to swindle the swindler. She learns that her co-inspirator has two sides to him. Can Valentina convince Archie to share his musical genius with the world?

I admit that I did not care for Archie in his sister’s book. His personality and his attitude towards certain things annoyed me. However, that changed with this story. I like how that is just a persona Archie adopted to present to his peers to keep his true self hidden.

Valentina proves that she was perfect for Archie. She is the only person who truly saw him. And Valentina preferred his rarely seen persona to the smiling jovial gentleman the world normally saw. I like how she encouraged him to share his music with the world, along with embracing both sides of himself.

LORD ARCHER CATCHES A CONTESSA is the third installment in Sofie Darling’s historical romance series, WINDERMERES IN LOVE. Each book in this series feels novella length. They make quick reads. I read this story in one setting. The characters and the plot easily drew me in, where I did not want to put the book down. Amelia and Tristan – the couple from LADY AMELIA TAKES A LOVER – make an appearance close to the end. Even Oliver Quincy, the annoying buffoon from MR. SINCLAIR BEGUILES A BLUESTOCKING, has a brief cameo.

Juliet and Rory are next.

Review for Sophie Jordan's "SPELLCAST"

 

SPELLCAST
Romance - Fantasy

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Sophie Jordan

RELEASE DATE:
July 28, 2026

PUBLISHER:
Avon and Harper Voyager

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9780063462199

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.sophiejordan.net/

 

 

Arden is the daughter of a blacksmith. She spends ten miserable years invisible due to a curse, unable to interact with her family and fellow town’s folk. Tragedy strikes her village, leaving Arden the lone survivor. She ends up kidnapped by a pride of dragons, ones who can transform into humans. Arden knows she does not belong with them, but she cannot ignore her desire for their alpha. Can Arden find a way to break her curse? Or will a secret forever alienate her from Tage?

Tage is the leader of a small group of shape-changing dragons. They investigate a skelm attack – dragons who prey on humans – only to find one survivor. Tage decides to bring the human woman back with them when they fail at altering her memories. Arden proves to be an anomaly among her kind; one he cannot ignore. Tage does not dare trust her with the secret of their existence. Will Arden’s presence destroy everything that Tage built within his pride?

SPELLCAST is the third book in Sophie Jordan’s fantasy romance series, A FIRE IN THE SKY.I did not know the author wrote books/series in this genre – fantasy and fantasy romances are my top favs. So, I have not read the first two books in the series. This did not hinder my ability to follow the plot or enjoy the story and characters. SPELLCAST takes place in the same world yet an all-new cast of characters.

The author breaks the story into three parts. The first focuses solely on Arden. How the curse starts and the ramifications it has on her. It allowed me to really empathize with Arden. My heart went out to the girl for everything she experienced while invisible. I am amazed that Arden managed to maintain her sanity.

The second part introduces Tage and his pride. I like the creative spin the author took with her dragon shapeshifters. How their kind evolved with the ability to morph into human shape. I also like how the dragons are still learning the full scope of their abilities, strengths, and weaknesses.