Historical

his guilt. He has little time for marriage or getting involved in other people’s problems, especially if the Black Widow of Whitehall is involved. But when his brother is nearly killed and the girl he grew up with is targeted by the worst sort of man, Henry Oinds himself considering a fake engagement as the only way forward. Lady Olivia Dawson has always hoped to marry for love, and Henry is one man she’s never forgotten. But her father’s Oinancial problems threaten her future, and her only hope of escape is convincing Henry that a true marriage is the answer to both their problems. As their mother’s scheme for their children and a mysterious foe threatens danger, arrangements at The Lyon’s Den could be the risk needed to assure all their futures.

When a lady needs a hero, Henry Stanton is the man to save her. In this story, a childhood friend turns romantic – but not until after some danger and meddling schemes push it forward. Readers looking for complexity or surprise should look elsewhere, but fans of attraction turned to love, dashing heroes, loyal families, crazy villains, and only a handful of minor conOlicts will Oind this book a perfect Oit. A quick read, this story can be read as a standalone in the Lyon’s Den Connected World, and makes two childhood friends into sweethearts so enticing, that a lazy afternoon read can easily be a lovely one!

Sarah E Bradley

Master of Dawn: A Medieval Romance

Kathryn LeVeque characters with multi-faceted perspectives. Both start from a point of duty but together build a lasting foundation of honesty, respect, trust, and love. Life in England during the Middle Ages springs to life in this intriguing story Oilled with emotional upheaval as women wait for men to return home. Readers will enjoy the antics of Lorica’s dogs and the banter between knights loyal to the death. This makes a delightful read for fans of historical tales of Lords and Ladies who thrive as they give their best every day. Keep the tissue box close by!

Simone Dober

Sir Galen Burleson, a warrior who’s survived many battles, is the sole heir to Tadcaster. The secrets kept by his father remain hidden until his imminent death, when Galen’s father enters into an agreement for his son to marry a wealthy heiress. Lady Lorica de la Beauvriere, the eldest daughter of Everard, owner of St. Nicholas Court, was born beautiful, then educated to fulOill her duty to marry well. Galen and Lorica meet at her father’s estate during a victory feast after the families joined forces in battle. The pair decidedly clash. Galen is taken with her stunning looks, while her residual anger with his rude behavior haunts her long after the feast. Lorica learns of her arranged marriage to fulOill family duty. The unsuspecting couple discovers they have more in common than imagined.

Descriptions of battles, feasts, and events are highlighted with passionate injections of colors and sound, making the pages come alive as Kathryn LeVeque depicts the practical process in Medieval times of securing title, wealth, property, and position through family alliances. Lorica and Galen are three-dimensional

Knight of Destiny (Sisterhood of Secrets #5)

Jennifer Monroe

Sir Aaron Kirkwood has longed to be a success and make his mark on the world. When a timely intervention earns him a knighthood, and with his good looks giving him an edge, he’s certain his destiny is waiting for him, beginning with turning a failing local theater into a gentlemen’s club. Unfortunately, he didn’t count on the lovely and tempting Miss Louisa Dunston. A family secret haunts Louisa, making her doubt she will ever be loved. Determined to hide this pain, she Olaunts her beauty to get what she wants, in this case, to preserve the local theater and keep it from the clutches of the arrogant knight who is attempting to buy it. Both are certain the other is targeting the theater for selOish ends, yet a simple Olirtation to win quickly turns into something more.

When two vain Olirts compete, sparks are inevitable. Passion is ignited almost from the beginning as Sir Aaron and Miss Louisa collide over the theater. The story unfolds quickly, with two very passionate and emotional characters that are very alike, and inspire strong feelings in the reader. Faults are fully addressed in these characters, who tend toward vanity, arrogance, condescension, and more, with little willing improvement. Yet their very Olaws being reOlected in each other have the unusual effect of increasing the attraction they feel, despite their differences of opinion and approach to the future. As a result, the reader is engaged from the beginning, and will Oind themselves immersed in this hate-to-love couple that brims with desire from start to Oinish.

Sarah E Bradley

The Convenient Engagement (The De Petras Saga Book 5)

Emily E. K. Murdoch

Sapphire is the youngest of the De Petras family and is still protected and treated like a child. She has a disability that does not stop her. No one in her family will take her seriously and she believes the only way they will is if she becomes engaged. So, she devises a plan for her best friend, James, the Earl of Maltravers to propose to her. James has been in love with Sapphire for years but has not found the courage to tell Sapphire of his real feelings. When Sapphire proposes the plan, he thinks this is Oinally his chance to prove and show how he really feels. What happens when this plan backOires on them both?

“The Convenient Engagement” is book 5 in the De Petras Saga and can be read as a standalone, but would be so much more enjoyable if the books are read in order. The reader is pulled in from the very beginning, and the tale’s grip will not let up until the end. This is a beautiful story about two friends who grew up together, and wind up falling in love. The reader will love the De Petras family, especially Sapphire and James, the main characters. Despite Sapphire’s disability, she does not let it stop her from what she wants. Her personality is so outgoing and fun, and James is shy and unsure of himself. Both are complete opposites of one another, but Oit so well together. The reader will enjoy watching the interaction between them as they struggle with their feelings for one another, which are heartfelt, and the chemistry and sparks grow in a realistic way.

Victoria Zumbrum

Meant for the Marquess (Second Sons of London #7)

Alexa Aston

Julia Oinds herself on her own in the world, forced to seek employment after her father, Lord Tilton, passed, and left his estate to his eldest son. Despite the cruelty of her half-brother’s actions, Julia accepts her fate and becomes a governess at Woodbridge. She is treated fairly there, teaches two young boys, and enjoys her life. However, when Lord Devin comes to visit Woodbridge after a career ending incident at war, Julia is faced with a new dilemma that could ruin her reputation and sully the good life she has been able to build.

When it comes to romance, “Meant for the Marquess” is as steamy and suspenseful as they get. The plot progression is steady, with each chapter ending just as a new revelation unfolds. Notably, each chapter is read from alternating perspectives between Julia and Lord Devin. The open window into both of their minds creates suspense as readers wait for the two to Oinally Oind companionship in each other, and learn to accept love from one another. Julia is portrayed as a strong-willed woman, and it is satisfying to watch Lord Devin squirm as she continues to deOlect his advances. However, it is equally satisfying to see Julia be viewed as a lady and slowly begin entering Polite Society as the equal she was before her halfbrother banished her. Alexa Aston produced a fantastic story that goes beyond romance and focuses on Julia’s fall from Polite Society, and her long awaited return.

Sadie Wilson make up for her father’s shortcomings, when her father sells her to Lord Rawden in a marriage agreement. Lord Rawden claims to never Oind love and preferred not to take a wife, while Patience only dreams of marrying once she found love. Now the two must learn to navigate their new situation, but Lord Rawden hides a secret threat lurking around that may endanger him or his new countess.

“The Accidental Groom” begins strong, with Lord Rawden swooping in to offer support for Miss Patience and her family as she struggles to buy groceries and household supplies. This sets the tone for how Patience feels about Lord Rawden, while also incorporating the situation that the Wallace family is in as well. From there, the story picks up speed fairly quickly; however, the middle slows down quite a bit, and the focus is largely on Patience struggling to accept her union and learning about marital duties. The threat that looms over Lord Rawden is known early on, but it does not come alive until the end of the novel. Overall, Barbara Devlin created a story full of struggle, passion, and fear that intertwine with an accidental love.

Sadie Wilson

The Accidental Groom (Mad Matchmaking Men of Waterloo #2)

Barbara Devlin

Miss Patience Wallace is the daughter of General Wallace, who lost his reputation and fell to gambling and drinking. Since her mother passed, Patience is left to

Valued by the Viscount (Second Sons of Lond Book 6)

Alexa Aston

As Lady Vanessa Hughes prepares for her come-out, her brother betroths her to Lord Hockley, who physically and verbally abuses her. Lord Hockley then deserts Vanessa to the country, and when he dies, she is moved to the dower house. Vanessa’s stepson later tells her she must vacate the house. So, Vanessa angrily goes to her husband’s grave, not knowing what to do. Luckily, she meets Lady Danbury at the gravesite. Lady Danbury is planning a house party to which she invites Vanessa and Reed Davenport, Viscount Boxling. When Reed and Vanessa meet, there is instant attraction. Vanessa, though, doesn’t think she’s worthy of Reed, especially since she has nothing to bring to the relationship. Reed must convince Vanessa she is worthy of him while Oighting off the other men at the party who also want her.

Ms. Alexa Aston writes a highly poignant Georgian novel that deOinitely will make anyone cry. Readers will immediately sympathize with the characters. The story, however, feels jarring, and there are big time gaps throughout. The villains never get punished and are unceremoniously dropped from the book. Even though the book can stand alone, it might help to read the other books in the series just to understand the relationships of the minor characters. Vanessa, the unconOident heroine, doesn’t show much gumption when dealing with others. Even when Vanessa interacts with Reed, who is a wonderful hero and will do anything to protect her, she still seems a bit afraid of him even though he doesn’t do anything to scare her. The book is still an interesting tale that is a pleasantly amusing read!

Roslynn Ernst

Daring Done Right

Charlie Lane between them years before. Xavier, Viscount Flint, made his mark with outrageous wagers which he won, often forgetting the people who counted on his existence. A dare in Bristol, orchestrated by the defeated scoundrel, Clarington, puts both Xavier and Sarah in the crosshairs of society's ridged mores if he talks. The unsuspecting pair discovers they are alike in many ways, the keenest of which is their belief in one another more than themselves. The sparks between them get fanned by respect and need, plus the promise of passion.Charlie Lane gives readers a delightful stand-alone story of two people who believe themselves undeserving of a chance. The layers of guilt, insecurity, and fear of failure get shed when they try to help one another. Individually, these two people care for others more than themselves. Through this lens, discover they are much more alike than at odds. The character development is superb enough to want to join their journey. The banter delightfully carries forward with realistic dialogue and believable situations. Lastly, the passion simmers enough to keep the pages turning, with pauses for sighs of encouragement. Fans of spicy Victorian Historical Romance tales will undoubtedly become immersed in this book and the rest of this series.

Lady Sarah is making ‘dares’ with the Ton members to support a poorly funded hospital. Each bet becomes increasingly dangerous, yet, disguised, along with two friends, she remains incognito and repeatedly wins. Sarah’s activities, however, gain the attention of a gentleman known as the Dare King, and he tags her as his Dare Queen. When the Dare King’s identity is revealed, Sarah is stunned because of a falling out

Simone Dober

Shadows We Carry: A Novel Meryl Ain

Fraternal twins, Jo-Jo and Bronka Lubinski are coming of age in the tumultuous 1960s. Studying at a New York City college, they live at home with their parents. Their father is a Holocaust survivor who has always kept his family close and his emotions buried. Their mom gave up being a nursing for marriage. With that example, both women are seeking to discover who they are in an era of women’s rights. Jo-Jo is forced to redeOine her terms, while Bronka continues to dream of a husband and family even as she pursues a career in journalism. The tug between news reporting and Oinding the right Jewish young man continues as she is Oinally given her chance to report on neo-Nazis on Long Island. It’s a story that will change the trajectory of her life.

“Shadows We Carry” is a moving tale of womanhood, Jewish identity, and family! The story is a sequel to “The Takeaway Men,” but can be read on its own. While both sisters are the focus at the beginning of the book, it isn’t long before Bronka’s voice and journey are the main drivers. Those of Jewish descent will likely feel an emotional connection to the Lubinskis. For non-Jewish readers, there are various Yiddish/Hebrew expressions sprinkled in the text for which a glossary is provided at the back. The pace felt slow at the start with Bronka pining over the boy who won’t commit. The emotional tension shoots up when the Neo Nazi storyline enters, and Bronka develops as a character. Points of view could have been smoother. Overall, “Shadows We Carry” is a keeper for any bookshelf!

Tricia Hill

The Highlander and the Lady of Misrule (The Queen’s Highlanders Book 2)

Heather McCollum mother died a traitor. However, Lucy’s sunny disposition and care for the needy is at odds with that assessment. When the original Lord of Misrule is poisoned, Queen Elizabeth selects Lucy to replace him, placing her in danger as well. Greer wants to keep everyone safe, but the culprit is closer than they realize. This story is peppered with snippets from documents written about events occurring near that time in history. The information adds insight and depth to the historical aspects of this tale, and lends credibility to the storytelling. The writing style Olows nicely and the pace is mostly steady, with a few slower sections. Nevertheless, the culprit stays on the periphery for much of the story, even though the author sprinkles multiple red herrings along the way. The denouement is somewhat believable and quite exciting. Greer is especially wellwritten, as his Scottish brogue practically leaps from the page. Life at court is portrayed with covert political gamesmanship and the ever-present watchful eyes of people hunting for secrets that they can parlay into gain. This is an intriguing story!

How to Marry a Viscount (The Cinderella Society Book 3)

Greer Buchanan, a Scottish soldier/envoy is sent to London to warn Queen Elizabeth of a plot to assassinate her during the twelve days of Christmas festivities. After being given erroneous directions, Greer ends up a few blocks from Whitehall Palace, where he comes to the aid of Lucy CranOield, a lady from the queen’s court, busy freeing dogs destined to Oight bears in the bear-baiting ring. She can’t stand to see cruelty, so she sets the dogs free. Since the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, she is often under scrutiny, as her

Tamsin Bell, daughter of the Duke of Chester, has been in love with Captain Henry Talbot, (Viscount Stirling) for years. Unfortunately, every time she has the courage to let him know, he disappears. He has loved her as well, but he has to stay ever-vigilant because his father, an Earl, has hired multiple people to attack him when he least expects it, as tests to keep him strong and aware, and as preparation for the time when he will inherit his father’s title. Meanwhile, Tamsin and three of her friends are part of the ‘Cinderella Society’. They use their gifts and strengths to help others and right wrongs and injustices. In this case, someone has stolen a poppet from Tamsin, and although it’s worthless Oinancially, it has deep sentimental value to her. She wants it back. Since Henry wants to keep Tamsin safe, he stations a guard to watch her home. Meanwhile, her father wants to marry her to a lecher. Tamsin really wants to marry Henry, but he is not cooperating for fear she will get injured during his father’s attacks.

The Cinderella Society adds interest to this story, as the author highlights their skills, intelligence, and inner core of strength.

Captain Talbot, recently discharged from the royal navy, has his own band of loyal friends, and has little interest in the ‘games’ or the inane conversations displayed at aristocratic events. Yet, he must be present if he is to keep Tamsin safe. The conOlicts are delineated clearly, and both protagonists are crafted fully. This book can be read as a stand-alone, yet is part of a larger series.

Carey Sullivan

One of his most ardent fans, Lady Featherstone, is part of The Society of Sponsoring Ladies. With no daughters of their own, this Society of matrons sponsors worthy young ladies; thus, Lady Featherstone decides to rescue Prudence, facilitate her escape from Luckstone, and sponsor her for a season in London.

The Jilter (A Series of Worthy Young Ladies, Book 5)

Kate Archer

Between the laughter, the lighthearted scenes (especially one particular dance!), and the entertaining dialogue, this book is a delight! Additionally, it also contains a shrouded mystery, while moderate tension adds gravitas and drives the storyline and the pace. The murder of Ryland’s father over the missing Lisbon Diamond is connected to the goings-on within this story, but readers must unravel how and why this is so. There is also an eleven-year-old character that adds a bit of levity to the serious parts, and is an especially welcome foil. The protagonists and the supporting characters provide a variety of believable as well as fanciful roles within this story. Ms. Archer deOines the conOlicts sufOiciently, and then delivers an appropriate conclusion that Oits the storyline.

Carey Sullivan

Lady Prudence Landry, the only daughter of the Earl of Copeland, is an innocent who has been targeted by a deceitful man masquerading as Lord Luckstone. As a result, she and her father are barricaded in their home, because if they dare to leave, they are accosted by Luckstone, who has announced his fake engagement to Prudence in their small town.

Ambrose Thorpe, the Marquess of Ryland, is the leader of The Society for Advancing Criminal Knowledge (SACK) in London.

A Constant Blaze (Last Flame of Alba Book 2)

Mary Lancaster

Malcolm MacHeth has been imprisoned by the King for twenty long years for seeking the crown for himself. Prison’s only real hardship for Malcolm is his inability to see his sons, Donald and Adam, and his daughter, GormOlaith, grow up. He also misses his wife, Halla, who is running his earldom in his absence. MacHeth hears his son Adam is unusual, a seer. When Donald goes to rescue his father and bring him home, he is betrayed by Fergus. Now both father and son are prisoners. Mairead, a woman who visits Malcolm MacHeth and gives him messages from the outside, helps him and Donald escape, but now she is in need of saving from her cruel husband! Halla hears of Mairead’s distress and formulates a plan to rescue her.

“A Constant Blaze” is a medieval saga about the MacHeth family and their cunning ways. Malcolm and Halla are very resilient characters to last twenty years apart and still share an everlasting love. It is endearing when they are shy about reuniting. Confusion comes when Malcolm is referred to with several different variations of his last name. Adam’s wife has several versions of her Oirst name, so again, there is confusion. Ms. Lancaster does mention this in the preface, but it still takes extra concentration to keep everyone straight. The Oirst half of the story drags, but the second half Olows brilliantly. The secondary Oigures are well Oleshed out, making it easy to fall for Muiredach the harpist. A fun allegory steeped in family traditions, this is an entertaining read for those who love all things medieval!

Belinda Wilson

unfounded rumors to reach Gilbert. Upon Gilbert’s return, he and Madelene are thrust together. His young nieces convince him to court her instead of shunning her. The Oly in the ointment? Hugh, who admits to being in love with Madelene, and whose purpose in life is to see Madelene happy–with either Gilbert or himself. Hugh gives Gilbert an ultimatum that will either send her back to Gilbert–

Adam (Diamonds of the First Water Book 3)

Sydney Jane Baily

Courting Lady Yeardly (Willful Winterbournes Book 3)

Sandra Sookoo

After his wife, Madelene, gives birth to a stillborn son, Gilbert Winterbourne, Lord Yeardly spends the next three years in India, leaving his grieving wife behind. While focused on learning about tea in the hopes of setting up a tea house back home, Gilbert wants the unpleasantness of strong emotions to simply go away. He can’t deal with Madelene or her grief. Gilbert’s best friend, retired Major Hugh, steps in to comfort and watch over Madelene in Gilbert’s absence, causing or to him. "Courting Lady Yeardly” is a wonderfully written tale of a second chance romance entangled in somewhat of a love triangle. Hugh’s love is unrequited, but he will do anything for Madelene and makes Gilbert aware of it. Gilbert is a problematic hero because he makes everything about himself. His speech is stilted and preachy. The information about tea is highly enlightening and gives a welcome break from the tension and angst which hold this story together. Madelene and Hugh are well-drawn characters. Madelene leans upon him when times are difOicult, and Gilbert is absent physically or emotionally. The emotions of each individual are validated and treated with care by Ms. Sookoo. A fascinating story that will keep readers engaged from the beginning. Bring tissues.

Belinda Wilson

When Lord Adam Diamond sees a beautiful lady drop a package, he immediately catches up and returns it to her. Weeks later, Adam visits the home of some old family friends, the Beasley's. While there, he hears the most beautiful violen playing somewhere in the house and assumes it is Lord Beasley's daughter playing. Mrs. Alice Malcolm, is the governess teaching the Beasley's three girls. But, when not required, she enjoys relaxing by playing her violin. When Adam approaches Alice and talks with her, he realizes that the girl who is playing is the same girl who dropped that package weeks before. Even though Lady Beasley tells him that Alice is their governess, Adam is absolutely enchanted and soon Oinds himself falling for Alice and discovers he would do anything to make her his. But Alice holds a secret about who she really is, and if Adam Oinds out, it may not only destroy his trust in her, but ruin his standing in society.

An absolutely delightful offering by Ms. Sydney Bailey! Although the plot and some situations may stretch believability a bit, the delightful characters and riveting story keep the reader thoroughly engaged. The characters are cleverly written and the circumstances are challenging indeed. Adam, the handsome hero, moves rather too quickly from wanting Alice to be his mistress to wanting her for his wife, which makes one skeptical of his motivations at Oirst but as the story progresses and they get to know each other better, things do smooth out. Unfortunately, some of the best parts are told rather than shown such as the reuniting of the couple with the Beasley family - an interesting situation to be sure! Still, the book succeeds in being a captivatingly creative and charming story indeed!

Roslynn Ernst

distant but only to protect her from his dangerous life as a spy. After Edgemont’s death—which she later learns was an assassination—Nikolai Baranov is found in her hunting lodge and the adventure begins. She and Nikolai brave a blizzard, retrieve a key broach and the list of Napoleon’s supporters her husband was killed over. Patrice is left home sorting through Edgemont’s journal and letters he was never able to send when she discovers the Oinal key to the puzzle, the location of Napoleon’s supplies. But will Patrice and Nikolai solve the puzzle of their relationship?

The puzzles and story are an incredible page turning journey, full of suspense and mystery. Patrice is a strongly written feminine character and the heroine of her own story, who Oinds the adventure she craves.

Her love of solving puzzles and her quick thinking truly solve the great mystery and save the day, while Nikolai provides her safety and protection. Mystery, adventure, light romance, suspense, drama, and several puzzles, all wrapped up in one wonderful package for the reader to open and follow along. In the end, Patrice ends up with both the love and adventure she craves, even though she had resigned herself to being a cautious widow. While light in the romance department, “The Lady and the Spy” is a page turner with unexpected twists to solve until the very end!

Amy Rubottom

The Lady and the Spy (The Ladies

of Sommer by the Sea, Book 2)

Ruth A Casie

Lady Patrice Montgomery Edgemont is done with men since both her husband and potential suitor were not who they appeared to be. Patrice and Lord Benedict Edgemont were friends and played games together as children, once married he became

Stand

(The Fielding's Series, Book 3)

Kimberley Ash

becomes immersed in a deep and well-developed family who have struggled to function together after losing their parents, and trying to save the struggling family business. The reader is given an opportunity to see a unique perspectives on a familiar topic, which may also be a trigger for some - spousal abuse - in which the victim is the male partner. It is covered in a respectful and responsible way, and brings value to the story. “Stand” is worth reading, and it leaves a lasting impression.

Valerie Vicars

through the trials planning a party, learning about permits, and Oinding an available venue, a subtle change begins. The tension rises along with the holiday spirit as Laura and Steve venture into the path of love.

This is a delightfully entertaining romance! Readers will engage with the characters quickly, and be eager to see their story play out. Steve is reluctant to be a part of planning for the event, but he’s volunteered by his wealthy clients to be Laura’s guide around town. It adds to his feelings that no one in town is really his friend; they simply see him as useful. He needs a vacation—now.

When Sam Fielding returns home for her sister, Thea's, wedding, she knows she is going to have to deal with all the things she ran away from two decades ago. Tyler Cavanaugh is a single father of two, struggling to give his children a stable life after their abusive and toxic mother returns. After an especially public and violent incident where his ex-wife assaults him, Tyler decides that the best thing for his kids is to visit his friend in New Mexico. The traumatic experiences have created a bond between Sam and Tyler’s daughter, Alyssa, and when she realizes they are all travelling the same way, she pleads for them to travel together. Torn between wanting to be there for Alyssa and wanting to get as far away from old memories as she can, Sam agrees. The past continues to haunt Sam and Tyler while also bringing them closer to each other, and creating a bond that neither can resist.

This is not a stand-alone book, and it takes a little bit to get a grip on the cast of characters if one has not read the prior books. Once the reader catches up, one

Christmas Island (Waverly Lake, Book Three)

Mary

Shotwell

Laura Crawford loves meeting people, which greatly helps in her job at The Learning Center for ASD. However, she’s suffering from a broken heart since her Oiancé ran away with a younger woman. When her job takes her to Waverly Lake, she’s happy for the break out of town, but her assignment means planning a fundraiser in two weeks. She has to learn about the area quickly. Enter Steve Albertson, hometown attorney and Laura’s reluctant local guide even though he was going to Florida. While struggling

Brokenhearted Laura is usually gregarious and intuitive, tending to make plans with feelings. The sweet part of the story is watching the pieces of Laura’s heart fall back in place while she’s sparring with Steve. When she’s called back to the ofOice, it feels like the end. The suspense over what happens next will make readers fear for the couple. However, they will love taking this journey with Laura and Steve and Oind themselves enjoying the happiest of holidays.

Leah Neale

Alexander to rise up to be the man he knows he’s capable of being. A fresh spin on an independent woman instead of a totally dependent one is refreshing. Olivia as a strong female gives a subplot added substance of what each character endures. A quick read of a relationship with compromises, tenacity and love. Delightful!

Viola Robbins

The Chosen One Deborah Camp

A wealthy real estate mogul is demanding that his son, Alexander Grant, settle down so he can take over as CEO of the family business. After having numerous failed engagements, Alexander’s father is now crafting a party to which he will invite three eligible women whom he has to choose from, and make one his bride –but another guest shows with an invitation, and takes him quite off guard. Alex has his sights set on the feisty journalist. If he can convince her to play along with the charade for a few months, he can take on the business and they can go their separate ways. However, when their hearts get involved, the charade is off – and so is the relationship. Can Alexander salvage one or the other in time? Ms. Camp and her creative story is a new take on an arranged marriage trope. While the plot moves swiftly, it’s well written and shares many family dynamics that get revealed like layers of an onion peeled off one layer at a time. Although this is not a likely modern scenario, readers will enjoy its conversion for current times, mostly to light a Oire under a son to settle down with a good woman. His father only wants

Protecting Her Heart: Rebecca (The Wishful Hearts Collection, Book 3)

River Ford

her plans and nothing will stop her from helping the kids.

Growing up with wealthy, disinterested parents left her feeling empty and unloved. Finding love includes a safe husband who puts family Oirst. She fulOills one dream when she builds a youth center for at-risk kids in Chicago. Sean steps in as a neighborhood police ofOicer and community volunteer, very friendly and handsome. Rebecca has no interest in the ofOicer even though he is not shy about his feelings. But he is always in danger. He keeps reminding Rebecca he’s trained to face scary situations, but she won’t budge. Rebecca puts the kids Oirst, even when facing the ruthless Dreads. Danger is the name of the game, but is Sean really the one in the risky situation? Their differences make for a very entertaining romance.

Leah Neale

A wish made at a teenage slumber party becomes a motto for Rebecca Watson. She cannot give her heart to one who readily puts himself in danger. The daughter of wealthy parents, Rebecca has missed one essential element of childhood—love. Now Rebecca’s dream is to provide a safe place for teens in a rough Chicago neighborhood to meet, study, and play sports. When she meets OfOicer Danger, a.k.a. Sean Thompson, there is attraction, but Rebecca refuses to accept it because of his hazardous job. Rebecca Oinds herself in trouble when she confronts the local gang leader Dreads. He is intent on destroying her dream, but Rebecca doesn’t give in. She has

Love on Paper (Love on Paper and Love on Film #1)

Sarah Madelin

Mariana is an accomplished romance author whose own love life seems to take her novels as a ‘what not to do’ guide. After her engagement ends in a heartbreaking display of her ex cheating on her, she is pushed by her family to heal her broken heart by getting away from it all. Mariana goes to a small town in the southeast part of England to help sell what she thought was an important part of her parents’ life: her father’s house. Thoughts of pain Oly away when she meets the kind actor, Sam, cast to play in a movie based on her book. Sam is more of a musician than an actor who can’t deny his attraction to the hurt romance author. Messy complications of miscommunication brew as their relationship develops in this contemporary romance. This modern tale takes a deep dive into the heart of a realistic messy romance. The story between Mariana and Sam has some relatable moments of misunderstanding that helps the reader really connect to the characters and events being portrayed. However, this realistic aspect becomes lost as the story tends to summarize a lot of the action that plays out on the page rather than allowing the reader to be part of it, which can cause some confusion as to what is happening at times. This, mixed with some character inconsistencies, cause the reader to wonder why some secondary characters are behaving the way they resulting in frustration. With a bit more attention to character development and active action scenes, this story will be one that will truly stay with readers long after the tale is Oinished!

Annalee Stilove

Idle

Arell Rivers

natural Olow of the relationship that eventually develops between Jesse and Paige is done in a perfect slow burn way. That being said, the Oinancial situation with Paige’s father is a little predictable, and mixed with the stereotypical personality that Paige displays at times can be irritating and distracting. However, the romance and fun reality show helps pull the reader back in. Overall, this book is entertaining and charming, and will be remembered for years to come!

Annalee Stilove

Paige’s whole life has been one of struggled luxury: the rich daughter dealing with the stressful fallout of her parents' secrets, and seemingly loveless marriage. Ever since his sister passed away, Jesse’s life has been dedicated to fulOilling her dreams, but now he feels it’s time for him to turn his focus on what he wants. Becoming a carpenter isn’t an easy task, but the apartment renovation reality TV show promises to put Jesse’s skills on the map, if he can secure a partner that is. When his old friend suggests his baby sister, Paige, Jesse jumps at the chance, but Paige isn’t so keen on being stuck in the same building as this man who can’t even pull out chairs for a lady. As Paige’s perfect life falls apart, she makes the decision to partner with Jesse, but neither expect their feelings to be renovated - along with the apartment.

This cute brother’s best friend romance will touch hearts and keep readers coming back for more! Readers are sure to be won over by the irresistible commitment Jesse has to the people who are important in his life. The comedic moments are written beautifully, and the

Love Cursed

of dislike throughout most of the book, but one will quickly see her emotions change for him, leaving readers unsure of where or when this might have happened. Some of the characters names are switched when talking, which leads the reader astray from the story line in confusion, taking away from the excitement of the fantasy. Langley and Russell’s love story is one for the ages. With some content editing and character building, readers are sure to be drawn into love in this Oirst tale in The Bourbon Trail Series.

Stephanie Bell

their lives – Ruairi will need to battle his own past and the family members who want nothing more than to take everything he holds dear.

Russell Carr is trapped inside a vintage purse until someone lets him out. When Langley Roberts opens the purse after walking into the old antique shop, she releases Russell—a bootlegger from a different time. However, that isn’t the only unusual thing about this mysterious man. Russell is a genie who can grant her three wishes. But the only thing Langley wishes is for Russell to disappear back to his old life, leaving her alone. When Russell explains to Langley how her wish of him leaving can only be granted after a woman falls in love with him – or if she falls in love with him – Langley starts helping Russ Oind dates, and researching his family tree in hopes to Oind a clue to breaking the curse. Will Langley help Russ Oind a way to free him of the witch’s curse through his family tree and send him back to his bootlegging? Or will she succumb to his charm and fall in love with him, having him stay in her time?

“Love Cursed” is compelling and intriguing with a witch curse and a genie thrown in, giving this paranormal/fantasy read a fairy tale ending. However, the love story between Langley and Russell seems rushed. Langley’s emotions towards Russell are one

Beer and Broomsticks

T.M.

Cromer

It has been seventeen years since the betrayal that ripped apart the relationship between Bridget O’Malley and Ruairi O’Conner and caused a divide that years of a family feud had not previously accomplished. For centuries, the two families have been embroiled in a battle for the O'Malley's magic, and now a prophecy is pulling the families together in a battle for their magic – and their lives. Can Bridget forgive the mistakes of a boy and learn to love the man who has never stopped loving her, even when she made it hard? To save their love – and

The reader is in for magic, love, and defying odds with this book! Ms. Cromer has woven a deeply intricate world with room for a multitude of stories for years to come. Bridget and Ruari have been in love since they Oirst met but have been at odds for the last seventeen years, and the reader can feel the romantic tension that both characters are Oighting. Sparks fairly sizzle from the pages when these two are together! This book is steamy while also keeping the focus on a good, strong storyline, and characters one cannot help falling in love with. Though “Beer and Broomsticks” is not the Oirst tale in The Unlucky Charms series, it is still easy to read and follow along with, and will no doubt leave a smile on readers’ faces – and using their ereaders as fans!

Valerie Vicars

A Deal with Darkness (Eternal Night #2)

Alexis L. Menard

Isoldra Maan is a hound for Haalarcus, the Lord of Lost Souls. She is indebted to him and must