Review: Eva Devon's THE DUKE'S SECRET CINDERELLA

 

Rafe Dorchester, the Duke of Rockford, knows better than to ignore his mother’s ultimatum He reluctantly agrees to pay a call to the sole name on her list of bridal candidates. When Rafe arrives at the lady’s house, he finds the captivating blonde he had helped earlier. He is disappointed to find she is not the candidate on his mother’s list. Charlotte proves to be everything Rafe wants in a wife and duchess. However, the lady in question thinks otherwise. Can Rafe convince Charlotte to be his duchess? Or will her deceit destroy that possibility?

Charlotte Brown is nothing more than an unpaid maid to her cruel and power-hungry stepfather. She encounters Rafe on her way to rescue a beloved servant wrongly incarcerated. Charlotte never expected to find her handsome rescuer paying a visit to her home and her stepsister. She knows a duke would never choose a lowly servant, but she still alludes to being a lady. However, Charlotte soon learns that her falsehoods have dire circumstances. Will Charlotte tell Rafe the truth? Or will she pay the ultimate consequences for her lie?

Sometimes Rafe seemed too good to be true! He is aware of the power he wields as a duke, and he uses it for the common man. Rafe never once came off pompous, arrogant, or snobbish. He actually seemed to dislike his peers’ attitude.

I like the fact that Charlotte’s stepsister is an ally. Francesca helped where she could. She encouraged Charlotte to be the woman she wanted and grab whatever bits of happiness she could. What I adore the most about Charlotte is her dedication and loyalty to those she loved. She refused to abandon a servant of her household because of her stepfather’s cruelty. Charlotte shielded them from the brunt of his malice.

THE DUKE’S SECRET CINDERELLA is the third book in Eva Devon’s historical romance series, NEVER A WALLFLOWER. I am new to this author, so I have not read the previous two books in the series. The story can easily standalone. I will definitely be keeping an eye out for the author’s past and future titles.

Generally, I skip over fairy tale retellings. There have been a few novels that I made an exception. The book’s premise captured my interest. It did not disappoint.

I have noticed a trend in historical romance Cinderella retellings. They all have a “good” stepsister (instead of the evil one) that the heroine adores. Well, the two retellings I have read, did. And honestly, I like it that way.

Review: A WARRIOR FOR CHRISTMAS by Donna Grant

 

A WARRIOR FOR CHRISTMAS is a collection of short stories told from the couples of the DARK SWORD/DARK WARRIORS series’ POV, during the preparations for the Winter Solstice. I like how we, the readers, got to reacquaint with our favorite, beloved characters again.

Truthfully, I have not read all the books and novellas in the two series. So, there are a few couples, and situations, I am unfamiliar with.

I like how each couple assimilates. They know peace is elusive and temporary, so they prepare for a possible threat in their own ways. It is also fun to see how each couple prepares for the holiday season.

Each short story is followed by a holiday recipe. There were some that sounded delicious, but nothing my family would like.

A WARRIOR FOR CHRISTMAS is a quick, holiday-themed read.

REVIEW: Sabrina Jeffries' WHAT HAPPENS IN THE BALLROOM

 

Rating: 4.5

Nathaniel Stanton, the Earl of Foxstead, is a war hero. He has never forgotten his deceased friend’s wife. Nathaniel decides to hire Eliza and her sisters to help his ward find a suitable suitor. He harbors a shocking secret that could destroy both Eliza and his ward. Attraction blooms between them, and Nathaniel finds that he cannot keep his hands off Eliza. However, the truth threatens to destroy their budding relationship. Can Nathaniel convince Eliza to forgive him? And at what cost?

Eliza Pierce is a widow. She co-owns a successful party planner business with her sisters. Her late husband’s friend approaches Eliza to help his ward debut in high society. She suspects Nathaniel is keeping something from her but reluctantly agrees. Eliza cannot ignore her growing attraction to the rapscallion earl. She soon learns the devastating truth about his ward and her young son. Can Eliza forgive Nathaniel for all his secrets and lies? Or will her late husband’s treachery destroy any possibility of a future?

Nathaniel is such a sweetheart! He has this mischievous and infectious charm that makes him hard to resist. I like how Nathaniel’s stint in the army changed him for the better. It opened his awareness to a lot of injustices in the world. Plus, it helped him give up his rakehell ways. What I adore the most about Nathaniel is his thoughtfulness towards Eliza. He has always liked and admired her. However, Nathaniel kept a respectful distance from her to keep from betraying his friend. Plus, he tried to keep from causing her more pain with the truth about her late husband.

Eliza is such an amazing woman! She, along with her sisters, has managed to overcome many obstacles. I understand Eliza’s distrust with men. Her father and late husband really did a number on her mentally and emotionally. The two men tried to dictate her life without any regards of her feelings. What I admire the most about Eliza is how she proves that she does not need a man to succeed. Elegant Occasions’ success is proof of that, especially during the rigid strictures women faced in that era.

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE BALLROOM is the second book in Sabrina Jeffries’ historical romance series, DESIGNING DEBUTANTES. The story can easily stand alone. However, I suggest reading the prior book first. It explains the three sisters’ background and why they started their business.

Review: Alexandra Ivy's Desperate Acts

 

Rating: 4.5
Review courtesy of Romance Junkies

Kaden Vaughn is a former Hollywood stunt driver. He believes the skeletal remains found in Pike, Wisconsin, belong to his brother’s fiancé. Kaden intends to solve the woman’s mysterious disappearance for his deceased brother. However, the authorities’ methods in handling the case seem shady and dubious. Kaden’s only ally is the owner of the local grocery store. Someone does not want them poking their nose into the case and tries to scare them off. Can Kaden protect Lia from the true murderer? What terrible secrets will they dredge up? And at what cost?

Lia Porter runs and operates her family-owned grocery store. When a body is discovered near town, she recalls an incident she had witnessed fifteen years ago. Lia disagrees with the authorities’ conclusion on the case. The only person who shares her suspicions is the ruggedly handsome stranger from Hollywood. She and Kaden start their own investigation, only to learn more than what they bargained for. Someone in Pike wants to keep their secrets hidden, and they are willing to kill to keep them. Will Lia become another unfortunate victim? Will she and Kaden solve the fifteen-year-old case?

Kaden is such a positive inspiration. He came from a rough upbringing with an alcoholic father. Kaden wisely escaped that lifestyle and found his path in life. I admire Kaden’s determination to honor his brother’s memory by solving the case that destroyed him. He may not have liked his brother’s fiancé, but he set aside his differences to investigate her strange disappearance. What I like the most about Kaden is his protectiveness towards Lia. He knows their investigation is dangerous, and he did not want to jeopardize her safety or livelihood.

It took me a while to warm up to Lia. She came off too serious and strait-laced for my tastes. However, my opinion changed as the story progressed. Kaden’s presence allowed Lia to tap into her hidden adventurous side. I understand Lia’s dislike of how others viewed her. She grows tired of being labeled as a dependable, by-the-book killjoy, who refuses to take risks. What I admire the most about Lia is her reasons for keeping her family-owned grocery store open. It is more for the residents than profit.

DESPERATE ACTS is the fourth book in Alexandra Ivy’s romantic suspense series, PIKE, WISCONSIN. This is my first foray into the author’s romantic suspense books. I am more familiar with her paranormal romances. The story can stand alone. The only commonality each book in the series shares is the setting: a small town called Pike in Wisconsin. I like how the story focuses more on Kaden and Lia’s amateurish investigation than their romance. The romance element is there, but it is subtle.

DESPERATE ACTS is a gripping tale of two strangers partnering up to solve a cold case. I plan on checking out the other books in this series. I cannot wait to learn what other dark and dangerous secrets Pike, Wisconsin has.

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.