GUIDE TO Reviews& Ratings

We use a Standard 5-star Rating System

EXCEPTIONAL EXCELLENT GOOD FAIR POOR

CNF: If the problems in a book are such that a reviewer is unable to finish it, the book will be given to another reviewer to read. If both reviewers are unable to finish the book, it will receive the rating of “CNF” or “Could Not Finish” We also rate the "Steam" or sex factor so readers can enjoy whatever level they are most comfortable with.

The Criteria is as Follows

Nothing but kisses

Passionate kissing,

Sex but the door is closed

Slightly steamy sex with some description

Steamy sex with somewhat graphic description

Those books receiving a 4.5 or a 5 star review will also be awarded the "Crowned Heart" for excellence. This symbol will be seen beside the review in the magazine.

A Winter Wedding

Nadine Millard

Sophia Templeworth is the youngest of four daughters—and the only one unmarried. Despite her mother’s attempts to change that, Sophia is quite alright with the lack of romance in her own personal life, and finds herself much happier spending her time in the stables and riding her brother-in-law’s horses. Devon Blake, Duke of Farnshire, spends the Christmas holidays with his friend and his friend’s wife’s family, including the mysterious Sophia. Sophia and Devon quickly find themselves drawn together while trying to provide a fun and loving holiday environment for Devon’s orphaned niece and nephew. Sophia finds herself caring not just for the children who desperately need a mother’s touch, but for their frustrating and attractive uncle. Believing it’s the perfect idea, Devon announces a betrothal—without asking Sophia to marry him first. Together they could have the kind of love neither of them ever expected, but first they must survive the courtship.

The author wraps up the last of four sisters’ stories in a fun and entertaining read that will keep the reader smiling and believing in happy ever after. Being the youngest sister and this being fourth book in no way leaves the reader feeling like this is an afterthought. This tale is well thought out, and the characters are defined and enjoyable. The book doesn’t linger overlong on characters that don’t help move the plot along, and characters like unwelcome suitors and nasty nannies are dealt with in an easy flowing way that brings results without wasting pages on too much negative drama. Any reader looking for a good classic romance between characters who never expected love to come their way is in for a rewarding time.

Valerie Vicars

Between the Sky and the Sea

Lisa Williams Kline

Lavinia Onslow is on board the Pulaski with her father. The year is 1838 and Lavinia happens to catch the attention of a young man who she comes to know as Daniel. One fateful night the Pulaski seems to have some trouble with the boiler, and it explodes, sinking the ship. Most of the passengers on board the Pulaski are drowned in the frigid waters, but Lavinia survives. As she struggles to stay afloat, almost despairing, someone finally jumps in and rescues her. For four days, Lavinia and Daniel float, surrounded by nothing but sea. They talk and get to know one another. All the while, Lavinia wonders whether her father is still alive or if he went down with the ship. In amongst worrying about her father, Lavinia’s interest in Daniel grows. There is something happening between the two of them as they wonder if they will ever be rescued.

"etween the Sky and the Sea" is a stirring adventure. The passionate feelings sparking between Lavinia and Daniel grow with each page as readers watch the two face a raft of troubles. Facing their struggles head on together allows the castaway couple to learn about each other more deeply. Lisa Williams Kline throws enough history in with the romance to pique the interest of the readers and keep them turning the pages as they wonder what will happen between Daniel and Lavinia. With a little more editing, “Between the Sky and the Sea” would be a romance for the ages making this a book no one could put down.

Stephanie Bell

Burning Embers

Mary Lancaster

The last granddaughter of Adam MacHeth, Affrica MacHeth, is at the center of change during Scotland’s tumultuous years between 1200 and 1235, including the Ross rebellion’s last MacHeth rise against the King of Scots. A sensitive girl, Affrica, sees the thoughts and intent of others, especially her brothers and cousins, by her tenth year. The young girl displayed her adventuresome and resilient attributes at a young age, smitten with the priest’s son, Ferchar Ruadri. He held the nickname of Maccintsacairt bestowed upon him by the unreasonably jealous Kenneth MacHeth whom he grew up with. Ferchar’s honesty and loyalty allowed him to attend school in Paris. He also captures the heart of young Affrica. The friendship between Affrica and Ferchar grows over time with a harrowing escape in Paris. She’s stunned when she learns they are after her, not Ferchar. He helps her evade capture and earns the everlasting gratitude of her father.

The interweaving of complex Scottish turmoil and battles with relationships based on family ties, land, and power makes this a fascinating read. Affrica and Ferchar cross paths but choose different directions. Mary Lancaster masterfully pulls the threads together for the pair to discover their true destiny as foreseen. Fans of Scottish Historical Romance will remain glued to their Kindle as the story spills out. The vivid descriptions place readers inside the fortresses and among the wounded being tended. The non-stop action will cause the heart to stop and start at various intervals. Book three of the Last Flame of Alba trilogy is one no one should miss.

Simone Dober

Entangled

Mary Lancaster

Rosamund has lost her faith in love and desires to leave her cold and stifling marriage to become an herbalist where she will be more useful. Major Giles Butler is on his way to rejoin Wellington’s army to defeat Napoleon when he runs across the Duke of Cuttyngham, a very opinionated man who insults Butler’s slain friend, Colonel Michael Landon. Butler loses his temper and tells the Duke what he thinks of him. Major Butler is then challenged to a duel which results in the duke’s death. Determined to contribute to the war before standing trial, Butler flees to the coast and runs into the Duchess of Cuttyngham, who is fleeing from her life. What will happen when she finds out Butler murdered her husband?

"Entangled" is Book 1 in the Duel Book series and what an excellent beginning. It is a fun and engaging sweet Regency romance with enjoyable characters and entertaining story line. The characters are very charming and grow as the story progresses, especially Rosamund, who becomes a lot stronger and learns stands up for what she wants. Major Butler is an honorable man who has temper issues. Although he’s on the run, he still wants to do right by everyone—and also protect Rosamund. His fear that Rosamund will not want anything to do with him once she learns the truth about what happened to her husband is palpable. Although the reader will love the main characters, one may not feel a believable love connection between them as they feel more like close friends than lovers. Nevertheless, this is a delightful read that pulls the reader along the road to discovering happiness.

Victoria Zumbrum

His Enterprising Duchess

Peri Maxwell

Two young lovers, a vicar’s daughter and a Duke’s son, are separated by lies, betrayal, the rules of society, and an ocean. Thea Fowler and Oliver Hawkins grew up in the countryside village of Thetford. When their friendship becomes intimate, he is sent away to Canada. Oliver promises to send for her, but he learns Thea married soon after he left. When Thea finds herself expecting, she goes to Oliver’s mother requesting her help only to be told he has married. Six years later, Oliver returns to Thetford a widower and father to four year old Simon. He learns his older brother is dead and his father is soon to follow, thereby making him an Earl and soonto-be Duke. Thea has established herself as a hostess of a respectable inn while taking care of her widowed, impoverished mother. Contrary to gossip and rumors, neither wishes to have anything to do with the other, if only they could stay away from one another.

"His Enterprising Duchess" is a story of betrayal, loss, love, and second chances. Readers will be charmed by a precocious four year old and his menagerie of pets. The villagers, servants, and gentry will provide readers a yearning for gentler times. Readers will root for the unrequited love of two people kept apart by betrayal. The insidious and treacherous villains are perfect for readers to rile against. The descriptions of the picturesque villages and other landscapes will deliver readers to cobblestone roads, country inns, and aging woods. Ms. Maxwell’s angst-filled story of an enterprising woman and the man who loves her will take readers on a journey of perseverance and fulfillment.

Tonya Mathenia

In Bed with a Blackguard

Cara Maxwell

After being recruited and trained to be a lady knight in service to Her Majesty Queen of England, Jacquetta Lawson, a beautiful, incomparable debutante, is more than meets the eye. She is assigned a mission to learn the secrets of the infamous Lord Grayson Thane. As the second son to a duke, Grayson’s fall from society’s grace is cloaked in mystery. He’s been ordered to kidnap the debutante and deliver her to his boss in Barbados. Their voyage to the islands becomes a test of wills, ending in a tidal wave of passion which leads them both to put their secrets, new found love, and lives on the line to escape Grayson’s brutal kingpin master, Delaurier.

A sexy, seafaring adventure, "In Bed With a Blackguard" is filled with heat, humor, and danger! Both Jacquetta and Grayson are strong main characters with a scorching chemistry. The Lady Knights and the crew aboard the Agamemnon are delightful secondary characters who are integral to the storyline, with great potential for stories of their own. Though the malevolent Delaurier’s part is small within the actual story, he is a constant, dark presence of danger readers will feel throughout the story. The sea voyage and island landscape are described with engaging detail to transport readers. Although there are a few pronoun and name discrepancies; the quick-fire banter, steamy love scenes, and amusing characters manage to provide more than enough of distraction to those little blips.

Cara Maxwell introduces her new Lady Knights series with a cast of intriguing characters readers will definitely want to sail along with as they face their fears, fulfill their missions, and plunge into the depths of love.

Tonya Mathenia

Lady Beast’s Bridegroom Jude Knight

Lady Ariel was scarred for life in a fire when she was younger, losing her mother and brother at the same time. She now is retired and lives in the country, away from prying eyes. Society has dubbed her Lady Beast, and she wears a mask when she goes out. When Ariel’s father dies, her second cousin inherits his title, leaving the wealth to his only daughter. Now her second cousin wants all her father’s wealth and plots to have Ariel committed so he can steal it from her. Lady Ariel needs to marry so her husband can protect her from her greedy cousin. Peter, Lord Ransome, inherits his father’s debts, a stepmother, and her daughters and stepsisters. He needs to marry for money in order to take care of all his obligations. A marriage of convenience turns into so much more than Lady Ariel and Lord Ransome ever imagined.

"Lady Beast’s Bridegroom" is Regency twist on the fairytale, Beauty and the Beast. It is a beautiful love story that shows the reader that beauty is found deep within, and not by what a person looks like. Jude Knight has create a beautiful story that takes place during the Regency time period and shows the brutal and honest truth about how a disfigured woman was treated—even after being married. The author has created very strong and complex characters. The reader will love Lady Ariel, who, despite everything she has been through, has a very kind, gentle, and giving heart. Lord Ransome is a kind and caring man who will do anything for the people he loves. Readers will love the connection Ariel and Ransome have, and how he loves her for whom she is. "Lady Beast’s Bridegroom" is Book 1 in A Twist Upon a Regency Tale, and is a brilliant and beautiful start to a new series.

Victoria Zumbrum

Lyon at the Altar Lily Harlem

Anna Toussaint meets Frank Webb, heir to a viscountcy, when her mother becomes his governess to teach him the French language. Frank insists that Anna learn with him. Young love blossoms as the two teens grow closer until scandal erupts. Two years later, Frank is a viscount. He has no interest in the women his mother parades before him, his memories full of Anna, the girl he’d loved and lost. Anna, meanwhile, is working as a seamstress at the infamous Lyon’s Den. Then one night, she is the prize for whichever gentleman wins in a card game. When Frank and Anna come face to face at the altar, the emotions are strong. Anna has no intention of being a willing wife, but Frank is certain he can rekindle the feelings they once had. Can Anna and Frank build a life from the ashes of their first love?

"Lyon at the Altar" is a steamy, sensual romance that takes the spark of young love and fans it into the flames of adult passion! Anna is sweet, innocent, and transparent in her feelings. Frank is a young man caught in his first taste of love and lust. Anna’s anger at Frank takes up a good portion of the story, and there are many questions such as why Frank didn’t show greater backbone to find Anna and make things right. The plot is light, and sex dominates many of the scenes. Conflicts are resolved due to outside events rather than through character actions or dialogue. "Lyon at the Altar" is an entertaining entry in the Lyon’s Den Connected World that will satisfy longtime fans!

Tricia Hill

Pompeii Fire

Sharon E. Cathcart

Drusilla and Suetonius locked eyes as youngsters in a Roman marketplace. She was headed to being pawned off on a family friend while her father went to start a tavern in hopes of wealth. He was on his way to be trained as a gladiator after being sold into slavery. They would later meet again in Pompeii and fall in love.

Stephanie and Damiano locked eyes during a tourist excursion where she was visiting, and he impersonates a gladiator for a charity for stray dogs. They would meet again when Dom spots Stephanie eating in his cousin’s ristorante. He buys her dinner and the two become inseparable during her two week stay as a travel writer. One couple deals with tradition and jealous machinations as their world literally comes to an end, while the other couple deals with a long distance relationship in a post-pandemic world.

"Pompeii Fire" is a love story novella about the fierce passion of soulmates that traverses tragedy, time, and distance. Readers who enjoy a little poetical license mixed with historical data will turn the pages with glee. However some readers may find it hard to stumble through the historical references and foreign languages throughout the story, even though there is a glossary provided. The ancient story is the most prominent tale, filled with hints of gladiator action, historical accounts of Italian slavery, and a treacherous, greedy villain easy to hate. The contemporary story is very romantic, a little steamy, yet a tad predictable, even with the sporadic mentions of COVID-19 and its aftermath. Ms. Cathcart manages to wrap two small love stories with a historical twist— and a faithful dog, too.

Tonya Mathenia

Portrait of a Duke

Alexa Aston

Lady Margaret Townsend is a true artist at heart. Openly independent and outspoken, never planning to marry, she wishes to be the portrait artist of the ton since her late grandmother’s talent was ruthlessly denied by her husband. Having met the young Lord Daniel Bowning, later the Duke of Westfield, when he came to call on her sister, she then paints him from memory. Her sister Dolley marries and becomes a marchioness but later wants the duke for herself. The Dowager Duchess of Westfield knew Margaret’s late grandmother well and commissions a portrait painted by Margaret. The painting is a grand success amongst the ton and Margaret’s career is launched, but will it get in the way of her love for Daniel, or can Margaret have both her true loves?

An enthralling, hard to put down tale. Meeting at the tender age of 15 when Daniel comes to call on her sister, Margaret is immediately enthralled with the arrogant young man. Growing up ostracized by her mother and sister for her looks only makes Margaret more appealing to all those around her because it solidifies her strong personality, sharp intellect, and resistance to fitting into the molds of society. Between the Dowager Duchess of Westfield and Margaret, Daniel never stands a chance of forcing Margaret into the ton’s mold of an ideal wife for a Duke. Margaret’s strong, intelligent character never backs down and breaks the stereotypes of the age, putting the duke sufficiently in his place and challenging him at every turn. It is also touching to see the Dowager encourage Margaret to set her own rules for Polite Society as the new Duchess.

Amy Rubottom

Rescued by a Rake

Cheryl Bolen

Miss Lucy Beresford waited patiently for six years for her bridegroom to finally take her to the altar as promised. However, her patience has run out, and she travels to London to force his hand. Unfortunately, the groom is missing and Lucy’s only chance to find him is with his best friend, a notorious rake, Lord Montague. Monty is also worried about his absent friend, but allowing his friend’s fragile fiancée to track the man is hardly his first choice. But the longer the pair work together to track their errant friend and groom, the more Monty begins to see the appeal of the shy and plain lady, and the more they both wonder if a lady and a rake might make the better match.

A mix of historical romance and adventure leads two different people on a path of a missing man that takes them across the country, investigating potential espionage, and avoiding ruining reputations! As a couple, Monty and Lucy are a slightly unusual pair. Though she is an heiress and he is a lord, their interactions outside a typical ballroom and with Lucy’s engagement to another between them give their budding feelings a different take than the typical story of this genre. That said, while there is action, espionage, and political intrigue, they are all light and easily dealt with, and the romance is predictable. Overall, readers who want a slightly different format for their Regency romance but with a guaranteed happily ever after should give this book a look!

Sarah McEachron

Stealing the Duke

Lexi Post

Lady Joanna "Jo" Mabry loves and borrows books from other society members’ personal libraries. When Jo is invited to the home of James Huntington, the Duke of Northwick’s, she discovers his coveted book collection. She is awed by the number of books the duke has and decides to find a book she can abscond with. Jo spies a book titled "Educating the Female Species" which sparks her curiosity, so she takes it. James adores his library. When he notices a book is missing, he wonders who took it. Whoever did will quickly realize it’s not an educational book but hiding another titled inside: the "Illustrated Pleasures of Seduction." James suspects that it might be Jo who took his book and finds this highly humorous, because when she finds out what the book is about she might regret taking it after all.

This is such a rollicking, humorous, enjoyable book—simply enchanting! There could have been more to the thievery and "using" the tome, but the story still sticks to the mores and ideals of the period. "Stealing the Duke" might not seem original, especially since it seems based on a familiar classic, but Ms. Post brings her own unique spin to the tale which doesn’t make a mockery of the much-loved story but gives it new life. Jo is similar to her American counterpart, yet manages to be a strong-willed, feisty heroine that is instantly appealing. James, the bibliophile hero, pales in comparison, even though he is perfectly swoon-worthy and a fantastic book hero. This Regency-inspired "Little Women" is truly a delight!

Roslynn Ernst

Teasing Miss Atherby

Sandra Sookoo

Distant cousin to the Winterbournes, Luisa Atherby has come to London looking to strengthen her familial ties after the tragic death of her parents. While helping move furniture within her cousin’s London townhouse, she encounters a secret desk drawer holding old love letters which reveal a scandalous secret that may tear apart her new found family. Retired Major Hugh Pritchard has been pondering his life’s journey very much of late. Wondering if his romantic life will always end in failure after his past overtures were rejected twice, and his last infatuation caused him to be accidentally shot by his best friend. Separately deciding a turn through Hyde’s Park will bring clarity, the two renew their acquaintance when they run into one another. Their immediate attraction becomes a teasing flirtation leading to a whirlwind romance leaving each to wonder if change is a good thing.

Filled with flirtatious banter and very risqué behavior, "Teasing Miss Atherby" is a steamy, clutch-the-pearls, historical romance adventure. The two main characters are immediately shown to be not so mainstream in their feelings about life, and when they meet the sparks don’t just fly, they soar! The quick-fire sexual tension is described in some of the most proper yet incendiary language that readers will require a fan to keep from catching fire. Secondary characters from each family are pivotal to the plot as they assist and agitate the lovebirds. The language author Sandra Sookoo uses to tell this high-speed, no holds barred romp to a whirlwind happy ever after makes "Teasing Miss Atherby" a superbly sensual and sensationally fun story. Like a decadent piece of chocolate, one can only savor and then desire more. Yummy!

Tonya Mathenia

The Canary Kristy McCaffrey

Dr. Jack Brenner takes a trip into the Painted Desert to locate his missing father and make amends after his mother’s death. At the same time, college student Sarah Ryan goes to assist Dr. Allan Brenner digging for fossils. Sarah’s benefactor, Helen Parks, paid for the expedition but expects Sarah to become a spy. Forced into a quick and fake marriage so Sarah can accompany the expedition, she and Jack encounter a mass of others also looking for Dr. Allan Brenner in the Painted Desert. The race is on to find both the most extraordinary fossils in the Painted Desert and the elder Dr. Brenner. Will Sarah and Jack’s rushed marriage out west work out or will it become extinct? Will the fossil evidence they seek be found or will it be destroyed?

Puzzles, intrigue, danger, twists and turns along with the love story make this book a page turner. The paleontology theme was well explained and not too overwhelming, while the connection between Jack and Sarah takes flight through the pages. Kristy McCaffrey captures the evolution of marrying a stranger well through the process of Jack and Sarah’s becoming acquainted, sharing their love of paleontology, and eventually developing strong feelings for one another. Strong female characters dominated this book although most of the characters are male. The political struggle over fossil hunting is riveting and provides even more intrigue and danger to the story and adds an interesting twist to the tale. All the characters are well developed and lovely to follow through the dirt and dust in the western setting. This book stands well on its own for a series.

Amy Rubottom

The Duke’s Shield C.H. Admirand

The duke’s family is under attack from an old family enemy, Lord Chellenham. Michael O’Malley is part of the duke’s guard assigned to protect Viscount Chattsworth, his viscountess, their newborn son, and the surrounding estate, which includes the widow Mrs. Harriet Mayfield’s farm. Harriet or Harry to her friends, lost her husband to a great fever, so she and her son, Bart, now manage the work of the farm together. The outlying farms are being targeted by Lord Chellenham’s blackguards, barns are being burned and men are being shot. Will the farms survive the onslaught, and will Michael and Harry have their shot at love, or will Lord Chellenham win in his revenge plot. Will Harry’s pride and stubbornness get in the way of her second chance at love?

As the third book in a series, this one stands well on its own. The characters pop through the pages. Readers will root for Michael & Harry’s love story and the demise of the evil Lord Chellenham. This tale delivers a captivating mix of romance, intrigue, danger, drama, and delight. It is heartening that each character rises to meet various daunting challenges and overcomes adversity. The theme of banding together to be stronger allowa all of them to win their fights. Watching Michael and Bart bond over trying to get through to Harry over her stubborn behavior is enchanting. Loving a prideful, independent, and stubborn woman is never easy as Michael is learning, but his love and patience for her is wonderful to watch unfold from the first spark of interest to the hot flames of passion. A page turning delight to read.

Amy Rubottom

The Governess Diaries Chasity Bowlin

Euphemia "Effie" Darrow has put her all into creating the Darrow School, a place for girls like her—the illegitimate and pushed aside. The school is a place for girls to learn to take care of themselves and do so without needing a man, as Effie did. However, now a man Effie fell in love with as a girl has returned to her life. Nicholas Montford, a spy working to protect the crown, is now the heir to the dukedom of Clarenden, as his father’s only surviving son. Nicholas is enchanted by Effie when he returns, but once she discovers Nicholas has fathered and abandoned his child, Alexandra, she decides she cannot be with him. However, Nicholas has enemies everywhere, and with even a whiff of Nick’s feelings in their senses, Effie could be in danger. Will the couple survive their obstacles and enemies?

This story carries its weight in drama and beloved romance, keeping readers invested from the get-go with this brilliant plotline. However, it becomes harder to attach to the story if one hasn’t read the other books in the series. Specific scenes and characters referencing the previous books may confuse readers who did not read them. The main characters have such a perfect depth to them though, and the author makes the female character much more likable with her empowering and stubborn qualities that are nice to cling onto. Keeping track of the timeline as readers jump back and forth between the diaries, flashbacks, and main storyline can be difficult as well. However, this second-chance romance is still mesmerizing, harnessing just enough mystery and danger to keep readers constantly wanting more.

Austen Grace

Thoroughly Seduced Chantry Dawes

Vindicated by a Viscount Cheryl Bolen

Birdie Darley is on a mission to find who is stealing the horses. In amongst this mystery, she doesn’t expect to fall for someone who she dislikes and who dislikes her. However, though she might be falling for this man, she is still not sure who is stealing the horses. For all she knows, it could be this man, Ten, who is stealing the horses—while also stealing her heart. In the back of her mind, she knows they are attracted to each other. He seems to not want anything to do with her, but the little things Ten does for her show her otherwise. Will Birdie Darley and Ten succumb to their feelings while trying to solve the mystery behind who is stealing the horses? Or will they both continue to dislike each other and move on with their lives after the mystery is solved?

"Thoroughly Seduced" is the fourth book within the Aldbey Park Series, but it can be read as a standalone. It’s romance, mystery, adventure with a little history thrown in. Fans of historical romance will get a little of everything with this romantical tale. Chantry Dawes throws just enough of a history lesson in with the romance to keep her readers interested. The descriptive imagery portrayed in this easy read shows the readers how much passion the two main characters have for each other throughout the story, making this a read for anyone who is looking for a light romance. Fans of Chantry Dawes are sure to fulfill their romantic adventure desires with this wonderful read!

Stephanie Bell

Georgiana Beresford comes from a large family of beautiful women, and she is no exception. She, however, is determined never to marry without love. That is why even she is surprised when a chance encounter with a chivalrous man leaves her with complete assurance that love at first sight is alive and real. And, although she is unaware, the same could be said of her rescuer, Viscount Charles Churstan. That is a very good thing because someone is determined to destroy Georgiana’s reputation, and the only way to salvage it is to marry the dashing Charles. Unfortunately, when thwarted, the unknown villain increases the spurious accusations until it becomes imperative that the person must be found and stopped—but at what cost? As the crimes deepen, the fearless couple find they are playing with a very deadly nemesis indeed!

For anyone who loves a quick, dreamy romp without having to dig too deeply, this may be just the story! It is filled with an innocent kind of love where the couple are completely bowled over immediately and see no one more perfect that the other in every way. For those who require a bit more depth and understanding, or even a little more realistic view, however, this story might be quite a challenge, as there is naught but starry-eyed prose to solidify the relationship. Still, the secondary characters add a bit of warmth in family and friendship, the writing is smooth, and the chase to uncover and find the villain is lots of fun!

Ruth Lynn Ritter

Where the Thistle Grows

Mia Pride

A Home For Christmas River Ford

Caitriona Murray has been obsessed with the ancient tales of the legendary Pict King Brodyn and his unnamed wife for ages. She has even seen him in her dreams. When she joins an archaeological excavation in the caves of Scotland, she is finally moments away from a great discovery. In fact, she believes that the cave they’ve chosen to explore is none other than the burial site of King Brodyn. As she explores the cave, she finds herself transported through time. Lost in an unfamiliar place, she is surprised to stumble upon the man of her dreams.

The blood-rushing romance, whiplash of emotions, and teeth-chattering ending of "Where the Thistle Grows" creates a perfect storm that is unputdownable! At first, the novel follows the same age-old trope of time-travel and unexpected love; however, Mia Pride incorporates several key twists that give it a whole new meaning. In a world where the storyline could easily be lost to the complexity of time, Mia Pride weaves a beautiful tale of love. As the storyline progresses, the ending seems obvious; however, in the last quarter of the novel each page contains unexpected twists and turns that unravel to reveal the heart-felt ending. The way that each character is tied together with clear purpose gives the story depth that it couldn’t have otherwise. Even the smallest of side characters comes with a significant task of melding all the pieces together. King Brodyn and Caitriona Murray’s tale may not have a perfect beginning, but their story is both heart-warming and heart-wrenching.

Sadie Wilson

Jackie Hobbs is grieving. While working abroad, she receives word that her mother has been in an accident. Unable to return in time, Jackie is dreading holidays without her only family member. But in accordance with her mother’s last wishes, she reluctantly travels to Sugar Creek, Vermont, to spend the holidays as her mother had originally planned. Austin Fletcher is surprised and captivated by the kind-hearted woman who comes to stay in one of his family’s cabin rentals. His efforts to lead her on a special scavenger hunt and give her letters from her mother begin to not only help Jackie with her grief, but stir desires of his own. With Jackie’s loss so fresh and new, Austin is sure she wouldn’t be interested in what he has to offer, but the more time they spend together, the more he begins to wonder if she might be his own Christmas miracle.

An incredibly heart wrenching holiday tale, "A Home for Christmas" is the book lovers of Hallmark and contemporary romance need to read! Jackie’s emotions are palpable, and her efforts to embrace her mother’s last wishes are both believable in her reluctance and heartwarming in their effect. Austin is so charming and yet flawed as his devotion to his family holds him back from making a necessary move. Their romance together is incredibly sweet and is encouraged by a delightful cast of townsfolk, as well as Austin’s own family. The only real flaw in the tale is how Austin’s problems are resolved by his family instead of himself. That said, the story is well done to the point readers will find themselves either looking up the next book in the Seasons of Sugar Creek series and finding out what happens to the next Fletcher sibling! Delightful from start to finish!

Sarah McEachron

Christmas in the Air

Josie Riviera

Penelope Reid is terrified of flying and attempting to ignore her terror, she babbles her life story and a ton of her inner secrets to her seat mate, assuming she’d never see him again. Except, it turns out something about the single mother in her late 40s appeals to the doctor beside her, and two months later, Jacob Williams arrives in the town of Roses as the new pediatrician. Hurt by former relationships gone south, both Penelope and Jacob are slow to pursue the attraction between them. However, as Penelope attempts to raise her son and embrace the spirit of the holidays, she finds herself falling for the intriguing doctor, and the offer of a second chance romance that waits if only she’s willing to claim it.

A sweet and quick holiday romance, Penelope and Jacob are two hurt people who are attracted to one another and yet fearful of making a mistake a second time. The story alternates between their perspectives as they draw toward and then away from one another over the course of several weeks. While the attraction between the pair is established early, the story is disrupted at times by the sudden emotional whiplashes, the alternating POVs, and a few rushed or hastily tied up sub-plots with Jacob’s family. That said, Penny and Jacob have depth and show growth as the story continues. Their interactions with one another and with Penny’s son feel realistic with all their flaws and improvements. Overall, readers looking for second chance romance will find it to be an easy read with a satisfying conclusion.

Sarah McEachron