A Rake's Midnight Kiss by Anna Campbell (Sons of Sin #2)

A Rake's Midnight Kiss by Anna Campbell 

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A much lighter romance than some of Campbell's other works. This witty and sensual story is my favorite of her books so far.

Sons of Sin
1.   Seven Nights in a Rogue's Bed
1.5 Days of Rakes and Roses
2.   A Rake's Midnight Kiss
3.   What a Duke Dares

Synopsis (Goodreads):

It Takes A Lady

Brilliant scholar Genevieve Barrett knows how to keep a secret. Her identity as the author of her father's academic articles has always been her greatest deception—until a charming housebreaker tries to steal the mysterious Harmsworth Jewel from her. She doesn't reveal that she recognizes her father's devastatingly handsome new student as the thief himself. For Genevieve, this will be the most seductive secret of all...

To Catch A Thief

Sir Richard Harmsworth has been living a lie, maintaining a rakish façade to show society that he doesn't care about his status as a bastard. Yet long haunted by his unknown father's identity, Richard believes the Harmsworth Jewel will confirm his claim as the rightful heir. But when Richard sets out to seduce the bookworm who possesses the stone, he instead falls for its beautiful owner. But even as she steals Richard's heart, Genevieve will be in greater danger than her coveted treasure.

My Thoughts:

All of Campbell's books I've read so far have been quite dark and angsty, but this one was definitely on the lighter side. And I really enjoyed it. The characters were still tortured by their place in society, with Robert bearing the name of a bastard and Genevieve struggling to make a name for herself in academia. Of course there was still evil afoot, but overall, I actually felt really happy after reading this one! This was not the most original plot...a witty bluestocking, a misunderstood rake, lies and deception. We've seen it all before, but I think with Campbell's mixture of seriousness and sensuality that she adds to her plots, this was a pretty captivating story.

I loved the interplay between Genevieve and Robert. Genevieve was a strong, independent woman who would never give in to a man's seduction...except Robert had a ridiculous amount of charm. I mean honestly, Genevieve didn't stand a chance, and she knew it from the start. Instead of being unbelievable, I found their early interactions pretty humorous. While Robert did have to coax Genevieve to accept the connection between them, their passion was pretty darn steamy as I've come to expect from Campbell's romances. I especially enjoyed seeing how the love between Genevieve and Robert became more important to both than their need to prove themselves to society. It was truly a beautifully written romance.

This story is probably my favorite of Campbell's (so far, at least). It still has that hint of darkness with her deplorable villains, but the romance was just so uplifting. The characters were fun and witty and helped to balance out the darker parts, and I found myself smiling more often than not throughout this book.   

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Anna Campbell

The Burning Sky by Sherry Thomas (The Elemental Trilogy #1)

The Burning Sky by Sherry Thomas

Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Bottom Line: This story has a well developed magic system with some very strong characters and a very sweet romance. 

The Elemental Trilogy
1.  The Burning Sky
2.  The Perilous Sea

Synopsis (Goodreads):

It all began with a ruined elixir and a bolt of lightning.

Iolanthe Seabourne is the greatest elemental mage of her generation—or so she's been told. The one prophesied for years to be the savior of The Realm. It is her duty and destiny to face and defeat the Bane, the most powerful tyrant and mage the world has ever known. This would be a suicide task for anyone, let alone a reluctant sixteen-year-old girl with no training.

Guided by his mother's visions and committed to avenging his family, Prince Titus has sworn to protect Iolanthe even as he prepares her for their battle with the Bane. But he makes the terrifying mistake of falling in love with the girl who should have been only a means to an end. Now, with the servants of the tyrant closing in, Titus must choose between his mission—and her life.

The Burning Sky—the first book in the Elemental Trilogy—is an electrifying and unforgettable novel of intrigue and adventure.

My Thoughts:

I'm ashamed to say it, but sometimes I forget how great a book can be without dirty, passionate romance. This book was absolutely wonderful. As the first YA book I've read in several months, I must say I really enjoyed the innocence of this story.  The romance (while certainly not the main plot) was really adorable, and the action was exciting and a little whimsical.

I thought the magic system in this story was well thought out while still being fairly original. The magic realm was separate from the human realm, but overlapping in some locations, allowing mages to travel between both realms. There are magical creatures, instant teleportation spells (super handy), and some really useful enchanted training books. If some aspects of this magic system are a bit too convenient, I'm willing to let it slide, because I feel that everything worked well with Thomas' plot.

Prince Titus and Iolanthe were brought together by Titus' mother's prophesies, and the plot is primarily driven by these prophesies. While it was a little annoying how strongly Titus held too his mother's visions, I think it was a necessary character flaw. It was interesting to consider whether Titus would give up the prophesies as his trust in Iolanthe grew. The relationship between Titus and Iola was fun and sweet. Titus generally played the part of the lovesick puppy, while Iola was all business, but it actually didn't get overly obnoxious. Their developing relationship fit in nicely with the much more important saving-the-world parts of the story.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Sherry Thomas

Lord of Wicked Intentions by Lorraine Heath (Lost Lords of Pembrook #3)

Lord of Wicked Intentions by Lorraine Heath

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A perfect conclusion to the trilogy. The relationship between Rafe and Evelyn was developed beautifully. 

Lost Lords of Pembrook
1.   She Tempts the Duke
2.   Lord of Temptation
2.5 Deck the Halls with Love
3.   Lord of Wicked Intentions

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Only one woman can break through his heart of stone...

Three young heirs, imprisoned by an unscrupulous uncle, escaped—to the sea, to the streets, to faraway battle—awaiting the day when they would return to reclaim their birthright...

Lord Rafe Easton may be of noble blood, but survival taught him to rely only on himself and to love no one. Yet when he sets his eyes on Miss Evelyn Chambers, and earl's illegitimate daughter, he is determined to have her, if only as his mistress.

After her father's death, Evelyn Chambers never imagined she would be sold to the highest bidder, yet circumstances give her little choice except to accept the lord's indecent proposal. Rafe is wealthy, as well as ruthless. Yet his coldness belies deep passion and deeper secrets. If she must be his, Evelyn intends to lay bare everything the Lord of Pembrook is hiding. But dark discoveries threaten to destroy them both until unexpected love guides the last lost lord home.

My Thoughts:

This was the ending to the series I had been hoping for. Rafe was by far the most emotionally damaged of the "Lost Lords" after spending his childhood abandoned by his family in a workhouse, working in the mines, and falling into the brutal business of surviving in the streets of London. On top of this, Rafe never forgave his brothers for leaving him. I happened to read Courtney Milan's Unraveled (which I also recommend) the week before this book, and while they are certainly different stories, the plots share some similarities, so I had to struggle to keep the plots from jumbling together in my mind.

Evelyn was honestly the perfect woman for Rafe. I am so happy Heath paired these two together in this story. Evelyn was an illegitimate daughter of an Earl, and while her father always sheltered her from the scrutiny of society, she learns after his death that life for an illegitimate child is not as easy without a protector. Evelyn's step brother (who is truly the scum of the earth) is tasked with looking out for her future, which he resentfully interprets as selling her (literally) to the nastiest man he can find. Seriously, her brother is horrible. I can't get over it. Luckily, Rafe steps in and takes Evelyn as his own mistress...ok it doesn't sound that romantic, but it was. These two have some serious chemistry.

The story proceeds much as you would expect a romance between a damaged rake and sweet, innocent girl to go, but again I give Heath props for really making this story memorable. Rafe tries very hard to remind himself that he is a bad person and doesn't deserve any happiness, but everything he does is just adorable sweetness wrapped up in a prickly package. Evelyn is strong enough to deal with his outward gruffness and to confront him when he believes he doesn't deserve happiness. She's the perfect person to help him accept love and reconcile with his family. This book resolved all the unsolved problems throughout the series, and I think I enjoyed the series as a whole even more after reading this third book.
   

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Lorraine Heath     

Braving the Elements by K.F. Breene (Darkness #2)

Braving the Elements by K.F. Breene

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Bottom Line: If the dirtiness of the first novella scared you off, consider giving this series a second chance. You really can't go wrong with a magical sword-wielding alpha male. 

Darkness Series
1.  Into the Darkness
2.  Braving the Elements
3.  On a Razor's Edge
4.  Demons

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Sasha has always known she was different, but now she also knows that the shadow men she’s seen all her life, are real. 
With a life goal of fitting in, Sasha hopes her strange abilities will finally make true friendship a possibility. Unfortunately, her magic doesn’t function like everyone else’s. What she thought would make her belong, sets her apart now more than ever.

Stefan, all but promised to a different woman, has tried to keep his mind on his duties instead of the irresistible and free-spirited human. But when she is threatened, he can’t keep his distance anymore. He realizes he’ll stop at nothing to keep her safe, and more importantly, make her his. 

Just when one thing clicks into place, another spirals out of control. Stefan’s clan isn’t the only group that would benefit from an extremely rare type of magic. And their enemies will stop at nothing to get what they want.

My Thoughts:

This was a marvelous continuation of the Darkness Series. Sasha and a very unhappy Charles start attending classes to hone Sasha's magical skills. All the while, Sasha and Stefan struggle with the connection that is constantly pulling them together. Sasha has to deal with a bunch of super-humans who view her as nothing more than a pet with a few magical tricks. Stefan has to balance his attraction to Sasha with his duty to the clan, all while protecting his people from the imminent battles with the Eastern Territories.

If you read the first book and were bothered by the "distasteful sexual situations," the non-consensual sex is absent in this story. Now the crude language and sex warnings still stand, though it was toned down a bit. While mature subject matter is sprinkled throughout the book, I promise you the actual plot dominates...this story is not all sex.

Practically all of my issues with the first novella in this series were resolved in this story. I actually learned to like Sasha. I thought she was weak and purposefully played dumb in the first book, but after learning a bit more about her, I feel a little bad for my hasty judgement. I'll admit, she isn't the strongest heroine I've ever read, but it's not a crime for the heroine to get a little down when life gets rough. At least she has some badass skills she finally gets to show off in battle.

Stefan is definitely one of my favorite heroes. I mean he's just really perfect...can I have one please? Why don't I ever find hot men with magical swordsmanship skills and a killer protective instinct? I feel like that's not too much to ask... All right, so he's the typical alpha male tamed only by the heroine, but I still love it. Their attraction to each other was very steamy, and turns out Stefan is quite the romantic under all that muscle. I was happy that Charles ended up being the comic relief in this story instead of just a despicable sex-addict. My biggest disappointment is that these are so short!

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | K.F. Breene

Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs by Molly Harper (Jane Jameson #1)

Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs by Molly Harper

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Bottom Line: A very humorous novel about an average girl's introduction into her new life as a vampire.

Jane Jameson Series
1.   Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs
2.   Nice Girls Don't Date Dead Men
3.   Nice Girls Don't Live Forever
3.5 Nice Girls Don't Sign a Lease Without a Wedding Ring
4.   Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors
4.5 Special Valentine's Day Half-Moon Hollow Story

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Maybe it was the Shenanigans gift certificate that put her over the edge. When children's librarian and self-professed nice girl Jane Jameson is fired by her beastly boss and handed twenty-five dollars in potato skins instead of a severance check, she goes on a bender that's sure to become Half Moon Hollow legend. On her way home, she's mistaken for a deer, shot, and left for dead. And thanks to the mysterious stranger she met while chugging neon-colored cocktails, she wakes up with a decidedly unladylike thirst for blood.

Jane is now the latest recipient of a gift basket from the Newly Undead Welcoming Committee, and her life-after-lifestyle is taking some getting used to. Her recently deceased favorite aunt is now her ghostly roommate. She has to fake breathing and endure daytime hours to avoid coming out of the coffin to her family. She's forced to forgo her favorite down-home Southern cooking for bags of O negative. Her relationship with her sexy, mercurial vampire sire keeps running hot and cold. And if all that wasn't enough, it looks like someone in Half Moon Hollow is trying to frame her for a series of vampire murders. What's a nice undead girl to do?

My Thoughts:

I wouldn't categorize myself as a vampire novel fan; I've always thought that they all had very similar plots (perhaps I just haven't read enough of them...but hey, just an opinion). This book certainly didn't have the most original plot either, but damn was it funny. This was like a vampire comedy. Sure, there was murder and blood sucking and sexy vampire men, but I was laughing the entire time.

Jane is a book nerd turned vampire. Her family is obnoxious, her relationships are....less than inspiring, and she has a wicked sense of humor. I really connected with Jane; the inner dialogue and her sense of humor were right up my alley. This story is definitely written in a bit of a sarcastic, rambling style. She is not the shining southern belle her parents want, or the sexy and confident woman men like, but she is upbeat and fun and made this book so enjoyable.

Now, while I am content as long as a book is making me laugh, I will admit that this book's actual plot was a bit slow to develop.  The majority of the story consisted of Jane learning how to be a vampire, and the action didn't pick up until the last few chapters. If you are an avid reader of vampire novels, you may find this one lacking in excitement.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Molly Harper

Once More, My Darling Rogue by Lorraine Heath (Scandalous Gentlemen of St. James #2)

Once More, My Darling Rogue by Lorraine Heath

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: An exciting plot full of deception and sexual tension.

Scandalous Gentlemen of St. James
1.  When the Duke Was Wicked
2.  Once More, My Darling Rogue 


Synopsis (Goodreads):

They are England’s most eligible bachelors, with the most scandalous reputations. But for the right woman, even an unrepentant rogue may mend his ways…

Born to the street but raised within the aristocracy, Drake Darling can’t escape his sordid beginnings. Not when Lady Ophelia Lyttleton snubs him at every turn, a constant reminder he’s not truly one of them. But after rescuing her from a mysterious drowning he realizes she doesn’t remember who she is. With plans to bring her to heel, he insists she’s his housekeeper—never expecting to fall for the charming beauty.

While Ophelia might not recall her life before Drake, she has little doubt she belongs with him. The desire she feels for her dark, brooding employer can’t be denied, regardless of consequences. So when her memory returns, she is devastated by the depth of his betrayal. Now Drake must risk everything to prove she can trust this rogue with her heart once more.

My Thoughts:

I have been waiting for this book since I finished When the Duke Was Wicked. I realize the summary makes it sound like the story would be an 1800's version of the movie Overboard...and honestly it was quite similar.  But it was also very enjoyable. And had fewer mullets (thank goodness). Obviously, taking advantage of a lady's amnesia out of spite is a recipe for disaster...but something certainly needed to shake Ophelia out of her ways. Ophelia was an emotionally scarred lady who hid behind her haughtiness to keep everyone at a distance, especially the one man who she couldn't keep out of her head. Drake was a commoner adopted into an aristocratic family, though he never forgot his roots.

I like when authors shake it up and make either the hero or heroine completely unbearable at the start. In this book, it was definitely Ophelia.  She was stuck up and rude, and oh-so obnoxious.  I'd hate to wish a traumatic accident on anyone...but I won't say I was exactly upset when she wound up in the Thames. As such, I find myself unable to fully blame Drake for his deceit. Aside from being a little petty in his revenge, I really liked him as a hero. I thought he was honest (you know, aside from the major deception that made up the entire plot of this book) and a very sweet, romantic man.

This was definitely an emotional romance. Even when the romance between Drake and Ophelia was blooming, you always knew that his deception was hanging over their heads. And there was always the fear that she would revert to her old self if she remembered. There was a lot of tension and passion, and it was tied together in a beautifully written story.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Lorraine Heath         

The Ranger by Monica McCarty (Highland Guard #3)

The Ranger by Monica McCarty

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: Just as action packed as McCarty's previous novels, but with a more lovable hero.

Highland Guard

1.  The Chief
2.  The Hawk
3.  The Ranger
4.  The Viper
5.  The Saint
6.  The Recruit
7.  The Hunter
7.5  The Knight
8.  The Raider
9.  The Arrow (August 26, 2014) 

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Chosen to help Robert the Bruce in his quest to free Scotland from English rule and claim his crown, the legendary team of warriors known as the Highland Guard battles on.

Embedded deep behind enemy lines, Arthur “Ranger” Campbell is prized for his razor-sharp senses and his ability to blend into the shadows. But when Arthur infiltrates the clan of the chieftain who murdered his father, his heart is locked on revenge. Inside he faces unexpected resistance from the sweetest of obstacles—a honey-haired siren who is his enemy’s daughter.

Intrigued by this ruggedly handsome newcomer to her father’s forces, the vivacious, enchanting Anna MacDougall is a woman whose skill at uncovering deception rivals Arthur’s own. Though yearning for a quiet life with a good man to love, Anna is drawn to this mysterious knight whose eyes devour her but whose words push her away. As danger, treachery, and the threat of looming war draw them closer into each other’s arms, a warrior made of steel must make a choice from the heart: love or revenge.

My Thoughts:

Arthur was my favorite of McCarty's highlanders so far. This story kept the emotional turmoil of the previous stories, but without the cockiness we got from Tor and Erik.  Anna is a loyal and strong woman, and is immediately drawn to our sexy super-secret spy. Sadly, their relationship is pretty much doomed from the start, since Arthur's ultimate goal is to destroy her family.  All the more fun for us!

I loved the characters in this book.  Anna seemed pretty desperate for Arthur's attention through this book, which would normally have made me hate her, but somehow McCarty made it slightly endearing. It was amusing to have Anna constantly bugging Arthur while he tried desperately not to like her. The romance was hot (as always), but I especially enjoyed the action in this story. Arthur's "special skills" made the plot exciting, and added some depth to the relationship between him and Anna. I can think of only a few ways a doomed love between a spy and the daughter of his mortal enemy can end, but McCarty still managed to keep me on my toes.

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Monica McCarty

The Hawk by Monica McCarty (Highland Guard #2)

The Hawk by Monica McCarty

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: If you like seeing a cocky playboy finally brought to his knees, you'll enjoy this book. Oh, and the actual plot was good too. 

Highland Guard

1.  The Chief
2.  The Hawk
3.  The Ranger
4.  The Viper
5.  The Saint
6.  The Recruit
7.  The Hunter
7.5  The Knight
8.  The Raider
9.  The Arrow (August 26, 2014) 

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Handpicked by Robert the Bruce to help him in his quest to free Scotland from English rule, the elite warriors of the Highland Guard face their darkest days. When Bruce is forced to flee, his bid for freedom rests on the shoulders of one extraordinary warrior.

Erik MacSorley is a brilliant seafarer who has never encountered a wind he could not harness or a woman he could not win—until he drags a wet, half-naked “nursemaid” out of the waters off the Irish coast. Ellie’s ordinary appearance belies the truth: She is in fact Lady Elyne de Burgh, the spirited daughter of the most powerful noble in Ireland. Worse, this irresistible woman is determined to prove herself immune to Erik’s charms—a challenge he cannot resist.

Her captor may look every inch a rugged warrior, but Ellie vows that it will take more than a wickedly suggestive caress to impress her. Yet Erik will sweep away Ellie’s resistance with a desire that resonates deep within her heart. Still, he is a man driven by loyalty, and she is a woman with secrets that could jeopardize Bruce’s chance to reclaim his throne. As the battle for king and country sounds across the shores, will Ellie’s love be enough to finally tame the legend known as the Hawk?

My Thoughts:

Alright, I'm officially a fan of this series. It was a rough start with Tor "The Jerk" MacLeod in the first book, but I definitely enjoyed our second hero. McCarty has a way of taking obnoxious men and making me love them anyways. Erik "Hawk" MacSorley was chosen for Robert the Bruce's elite guard for his excellent seamanship. He's slightly crazy, way too cocky, and has never had to work for the attention of a woman in his life. Which is why I was oh so happy when he finally met his match in Ellie. Ellie is a nobleman's daughter, but decides to hide her identity from Hawk (who she believes to be a rugged pirate.) Ah, deception. Always makes for a great story.

Hawk was a major playboy. And while Ellie did her best to ignore his irresistible charms, she wasn't completely immune. Even after he realized that he felt differently about Ellie than the countless other women he had slept with, he was still way too cocky. And he kept mentioning how plain she was, and how grateful she would be for his attention! I would kick him in the face if I could. Maybe mess up his perfect bone structure a little bit. Really, some of these highlander hunks need to be brought down a few pegs. I certainly wouldn't characterize Hawk as "romantic" through the majority of the book, but my enjoyment in Hawk and Ellie's relationship came from seeing a man who had used his charm to get everything he wanted finally have to work to keep something he cared about.

I really like McCarty's writing. I think her stories really manage to pick at my emotions, and she's not afraid to stray from romantic heroes and give them a couple major character flaws. The heroes make me angry, but they also keep my face glued to the story. Nothing was half-assed in this story. The action was exciting and actually kept me interested in the politics behind the plot, which almost never happens. The tension between the characters was great and the sex was nice and detailed, if a little over the top at times (I'm looking at you boat-in-the-middle-of-a-storm scene...) I can't wait to continue on in this series and see what our next super secret highlander spy has in store!

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Monica McCarty

Three Nights with a Scoundrel by Tessa Dare (Stud Club #3)

Three Nights with a Scoundrel by Tessa Dare

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A great ending to the series! The romance was great, but the mystery was what really held my attention.  

Stud Club Trilogy
1.  One Dance with a Duke
2.  Twice Tempted by a Rogue
3.  Three Nights with a Scoundrel

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The bastard son of a nobleman, Julian Bellamy is now polished to perfection, enthralling the ton with wit and charm while clandestinely plotting to ruin the lords, ravish the ladies, and have the last laugh on a society that once spurned him. But after meeting Leo Chatwick, a decent man and founder of an elite gentlemen’s club, and Lily, Leo’s enchanting sister, Julian reconsiders his wild ways. And when Leo’s tragic murder demands that Julian hunt for justice, he vows to see the woman he secretly loves married to a man of her own class. 

Lily, however, has a very different husband in mind.  She’s loved Julian forever, adores the man beneath the rakish façade, and wants to savor the delicious attraction they share—as his wife. His insistence on marrying her off only reinforces her intent to prove that he is the only man for her. Obsessed with catching a killer, Julian sinks back to the gutters of his youth, forcing Lily to reach out with a sweet, reckless passion Julian can’t resist. Can her desire for a scoundrel save them both—or will dangerous secrets threaten more than their tender love?

My Thoughts:

I loved this ending to the series. I'll admit, I found Julian obnoxious in the previous two books, but that just made it even more exciting to see that there was more to him. This was a wonderful story of a strong friendship that transformed into something more. Lily was a great character; she was sweet and could hold her own against Julian's stubbornness. Julian still wasn't my favorite hero (honestly, did he NEED to sleep with every married lady in London), but he was way more interesting than I gave him credit for. He was certainly romantic, and the things he said to Lily when she couldn't read his lips...ah! So adorable. This was a kind of "all-consuming love" story, so you'll like it if you're in the mood for a gushy, incredibly passionate romance.

There were some sexy scenes in this book, but honestly, none of them really stuck with me. Don't get me wrong, they were good, but I was much more interested in the actual mystery and the development of Julian and Lily's relationship outside the bedroom. While the other stories only briefly explored the mystery of Leo's death, we finally get to the bottom of it in this book.  I'll admit I was surprised about multiple aspects of Leo's life and death. I like being surprised so well done Tessa Dare!

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Tessa Dare      

Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan (A Sign of Love #4)

Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan

Genre: Contemporary romance

Bottom Line: A deeply emotional and beautifully written romance that will have you attached to the characters right off the start. 

A Sign of Love Series
1.  Leo
2.  Leo's Chance
3.  Stinger
4.  Archer's Voice
5.  Becoming Calder

Synopsis (Goodreads):

When Bree Prescott arrives in the sleepy, lakeside town of Pelion, Maine, she hopes against hope that this is the place where she will finally find the peace she so desperately seeks. On her first day there, her life collides with Archer Hale, an isolated man who holds a secret agony of his own. A man no one else sees.

Archer's Voice is the story of a woman chained to the memory of one horrifying night and the man whose love is the key to her freedom. It is the story of a silent man who lives with an excruciating wound and the woman who helps him find his voice. It is the story of suffering, fate, and the transformative power of love.

My Thoughts:

Oh my goodness, my heart. Before I start, even though this book is in a series, it is a stand-alone novel, so no need to worry about reading out of order. I pulled an all-nighter for this book.  It was impossible to put down. Archer Hale is a mute who has isolated himself since he was seven years old. When Bree comes along (with her own haunted past), she is drawn to Archer and begins to pull him out of his shell. Their story was incredibly beautiful and well written. For 95 percent of this book, I was so happy and in love with both of the characters. For the other 5 percent, I was bawling my eyes out (and possibly having a minor heart attack...thank you Mia Sheridan.)

Archer is now one of my top favorite book heroes. He was by far the sweetest guy I have ever read about, and the relationship between him and Bree was amazingly developed. The dialogue was like Sheridan pulled every thing any girl has ever dreamed a guy would say to her and threw it in this book. And the passion between them...whew! There is an abundance of steamy scenes in this book, so if that's not what you're looking for, be forewarned. The absolute need between the two of them had me completely engulfed in the story right off the bat.

The only thing that bugged me with this book (and it was quite minor since I was too busy floating on a happy fluffy cloud throughout the entire story), was that the characters were almost too perfect. Even when they made mistakes, it wasn't their fault. They were both such wonderful, beautiful people, and at times I just wished I could get a bit of ferocity.     

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Mia Sheridan     

The Duke's Holiday by Maggie Fenton (The Regency Romp Trilogy #1)

The Duke's Holiday by Maggie Fenton

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: An adorably funny opposites-attract romance with a prissy Duke and an outspoken country girl.

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The Duke of Montford, cold, precise, and more powerful than the Prince Regent himself, wants things the way he wants them: cross-referenced, indexed, and at his beck and call. And he always gets what he wants. 

Until he meets Astrid Honeywell. And a giant pig. And a crooked castle in the middle of Yorkshire. 

Astrid Honeywell, staunch bluestocking, has struggled for years to keep her family together by running the estate and family brewery after her father's death. She is not about to let the tyrannical Duke of Montford steal away all she has worked for because of some antiquated contract between their families. So when the priggish Duke comes to call, she does everything in her power -- including setting the family pig on him -- to drive him away. 

She didn't expect him to be so ... well, infuriatingly attractive. Every time he scowls at her, she has the most improper desire to kiss him -- and a whole lot more. 

Montford can't decide whether to strangle Astrid or seduce her. The one thing he knows for a fact is that he must resist his powerful attraction for her at all costs. He has a very proper, very demure fiancée waiting for him back in London, after all. But when Astrid is kidnapped by a disgruntled suitor and whisked off to Gretna Green, Montford will do anything to get her back. 

Will these two drive each other to Bedlam ... or can they make it to the altar without killing each other? 

Includes an OCD Duke, a fiery heroine, mistaken identities, errant livestock, pompadours, drunken declarations, a touch of smex, and enough witty banter to sink a ship. 

My Thoughts:

I can tell I'll enjoy a book when the Dedication makes me giggle. This is a perfect "opposites attract" romantic comedy in historical romance novel form. Montford is incredibly OCD, and he seems to surround himself with other OCD people. Aside from this, he is humorously prissy. Honestly, it's disgusting. I feel like he was going to cry every time his cravat was wrinkled...or murder someone. So, of course, when he is forced to confront Astrid, the messiest, least respectable lady he has ever met, hilarity ensues.

Astrid and Montford both had their faults. They were far from the perfect characters, but I thought it aided in the humor and lightness of the story. Astrid's methods of retaliating against Montford were pretty darn juvenile for a 26 year old woman, considering she often demonstrated her displeasure by throwing mud or food at him. Yet, mixed with Montford throwing a hissy-fit every time he got even a speck of mud on his boots, I found their childish interactions pretty cute and funny.

The romance between Astrid and Montford was nice...not as hot as I expected, but average steaminess for a historical romance. There was passion, but I think the humor and lightness dominated in this story (which is not bad at all--sometimes I want to just laugh.)  The one thing that bothered me was that Montford continued to insult Astrid for the "wrongness" of her bright red hair, mismatched eyes, and plumper body...even after he started to care for her. I understand that part of this was just that her appearance messed with his OCD, but come on--you don't have to say the woman you are attracted to is ugly! Besides, heterochromia is awesome. I want different colored eyes.

This was a wonderful, funny romance and a great book for an evening of reading. I can't wait to see more from Fenton.        

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Maggie Fenton        

When the Duke Was Wicked by Lorraine Heath (Scandalous Gentlemen of St. James #1)

When the Duke Was Wicked by Lorraine Heath

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line: A wonderfully sexy romance about a search for love.  This book was a great balance between a light and emotional story. 

Scandalous Gentlemen of St. James
1.  When the Duke Was Wicked
2.  Once More, My Darling Rogue (August 26, 2014)


Synopsis (Goodreads):

They are England's most eligible bachelors, with the most scandalous reputations. But for the right woman, even an unrepentant rogue may mend his ways . . .

Lady Grace Mabry's ample inheritance has made it impossible for her to tell whether a suitor is in love with her— or enamored of her riches. Who better to distinguish beau from blackguard than her notorious childhood friend, the Duke of Lovingdon?

With no interest in marriage, Lovingdon has long lived only for pleasure. He sees little harm in helping Grace find a proper match. He simply has to teach the lovely innocent all the ploys a scoundrel uses to gain a woman's favor— by demonstrating his wicked ways. But as lessons lead to torrid passion and Grace becomes ensnared in another man's marriage plot, Lovingdon must wage a desperate gamble: Open his heart fully—or risk losing the woman he adores . . .

My Thoughts:

This was an adorable book. Grace is looking for a love match among her many suitors, and she enlists her childhood friend, Lovingdon, to help her determine who actually loves her and who is just after her money. There were a lot of unexpected twists in this story. Grace has a particular reason for wanting a love match, so there was a lot more to her story than just being a hopeless romantic. Lovingdon went into a moral decline after the death of his wife and child, and changed greatly from the man Grace knew as a girl. I am sometimes wary about these plots where one of the characters experienced the loss of a spouse. I want the hero and heroine to be meant for each other and no one else, but I also don't want the love for the former spouse to be belittled. It is always a slippery slope and there were some moments in this book where I considered punching my computer if Lovington said he couldn't love again one more time.  But I thought Heath handled it nicely and I suppose I can deal with a little tension.

Lovingdon was a very sensual character. The passion between him and Grace was marvelous. And the jealousy... I admit I have a weak spot for reading about jealous men. Throughout the book, Lovingdon gives Grace tips on how to tell if a man is in love with her. Of course, half the time he can't stop himself from demonstrating as well. Delicious. Another thing I enjoyed about this story is that the characters actually had nice families, which seems to be so rare in Regency novels. I like to read at least a few historical romances where the families are loving instead of abusive or detached.

On a side note, did anyone else find it weird that Grace never called him Henry? Come on, that is one of my favorite parts of a historical romance! You can't call the love of your life by his title...

I cannot wait to read Drake's story when the next book is released. I just read the synopsis and it sounds absolutely wonderful. Love! Deception! Amnesia! It's gonna be good.  

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Lorraine Heath         

How to Lose a Duke in Ten Days by Laura Lee Guhrke (An American Heiress in London #2)

How to Lose a Duke in Ten Days by Laura Lee Guhrke 

Genre: Historical Romance

Bottom Line:  This is a great book to read if you are looking for a tender, emotional romance with an emotionally scarred heroine and a very sweet hero.

An American Heiress in London
1.  When the Marquess Met His Match
2.  How to Lose a Duke in Ten Days
3.  Catch a Falling Heiress (February 2015)

Synopsis (Goodreads):

They had a deal...

From the moment she met the devil-may-care Duke of Margrave, Edie knew he could change her life. And when he agreed to her outrageous proposal of a marriage of convenience, she was transformed from ruined American heiress to English duchess. Five years later, she's delighted with their arrangement, especially since her husband is living on another continent.

But deals are made to be broken...

By marrying an heiress, Stuart was able to pay his family's enormous debts, and Edie's terms that he leave England forever seemed a small price to pay. But when a brush with death impels him home, he decides it's time for a real marriage with his luscious American bride, and he proposes a bold new bargain: ten days to win her willing kiss. But is ten days enough to win her heart?

My Thoughts:

Stuart is certainly one of my favorite historical romance heroes now. My God he was such a sweetheart. I was not sure I was going to like this story when it started off. Stuart had been gone for FIVE years...for their entire marriage. I truly doubted I would like a character who would do that to his wife.  But Edie and Stuart's story certainly had some twists, and the reasons for their separation added some emotional turmoil to the story. This was a unique plot for me and I found I was completely enthralled from the beginning.

Edie was smart and strong, despite her awful fear of intimacy. She was also blatantly honest which brought some humor to the story. She never hesitated to bring Stuart's ego down a peg, and I loved the way they interacted. This story jumped straight into the romance. Stuart cared for Edie from the start, so there was a bit of a "love at first site" vibe...at least on Stuart's end. I expected this story to focus on seduction, but I was pleasantly surprised that the scenes were much more emotional and tender. There was certainly passion, but the majority of the book was just adorably romantic. The way that they needed each other to heal and be happy really sucked me in to this story.         

Find it on: Amazon | Goodreads | Laura Lee Guhrke