Susan's Review of From Rags to Kisses-by Shana Galen--Survivors Series #11

She’s poor as a church mouse.

When young Jenny Tate stumbles over the beaten body of a boy in the streets of the London slums, her only intention is to rifle through his pockets. But the bruised lad charms her into helping him, and the next thing she knows, Aidan Sterling and she are fast friends, navigating life on the streets with all its dangers together. Jenny has learned never to trust or love anyone, but as the two grow up, they learn to rely on other. And then Aidan betrays her in the worst way possible.

He’s rich as a king.

Aidan Sterling is one of the richest men in England. He has everything he wants and no one to share it with. After risking his life in the army, he returned to England and made a fortune. Now he keeps his loneliness at bay by focusing on what he’s good at—making money. And then Jenny Tate steps unexpectedly back into his life. He’s never forgotten her and never stopped loving her. Jenny hasn’t forgotten him either, and she hasn’t forgiven him. She’s betrothed to a viscount and has a new life and wants nothing to do with Aidan. But the discovery of an ancient trunk, a hunt for a street urchin, and the interference of homing pigeons might just be enough to bring these two back together.


<

Shana Galen writes an engaging, heartfelt romance for Jenny Tate and Aiden Sterling in From Rags to Kisses. I loved the pairing of street smart Jenny with the business minded Aiden.

I liked that the author chose to divide the novel into two distinct parts. This choice enabled me to understand the close bond that Jenny and Aiden formed while living on the streets of London and how their childhood experiences effected the choices they made as adults. The couples parting at the end of the first part of the novel was perfectly written. I could feel how hurt and angry Jenny was when Aiden decided to leave her to join the army.

Aiden Sterling was part of the covert group headed by Colonel Draven. His special talent was to sneak behind enemy lines to steal food, weapons and horses—skills he learned in the rookeries from Jenny. Draven’s group consisted of men that were considered expendable – they formed a tight knit group. Financial security is import to Aidan --Investments, business and making deals consume Aiden’s time.

Jenny has landed on her feet—she’s engaged to a viscount and is a sought after antiques appraiser. Loved the strong bond between Jenny, Roland and Oscar. Oscar was a delight—he was intuitive and kept me in stiches as he listened for gossip behind closed doors. Jenny found her family with Roland and Oscar.

Aiden and Jenny are gifted with a second chance at love. I rooted for this couple to move past the hurt and to trust each other. Loved the red hot chemistry between the couple—the passion between them was undeniable. Jenny and Aiden matured and grew during the time they were apart. I loved the honest, direct conversations that the couple shared. I felt that it haunted Aiden that he couldn’t find Jenny when he returned home and this endeared him to me. Loved that Jenny was able to find her niche in society and that she was a strong, honest and direct heroine Shana Galen touches upon several different social issues throughout this well paced historical novel. Loved the connections with the Covent Garden Cubs and the Survivor series—perfectly written.

From Rags to Kisses has all the feels— unforgettable characters, heartfelt choices, and an enduring romance!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Book purchased through Amazon

From Rags to Kisses by Shana Galen

 From Rags to Kisses

by Shana Galen

"Then we have a deal?" He held out his hand 

and she stared at it. 
"You shake it." he said. She looked at him 

sharply, and something changed in her 

expression. He saw it soften. Then she put her

hand in his and he squeezed it warmly, hoping 

he was right about her. Hoping she didn't rob

him blind and murder him in his sleep. "

What a way to start a love story. Right? 

But really, it is a sweet and wonderful love story.

Look at that cover! So beautiful. 

Jenny Tate comes from the toughest and roughest

part of town. She has had to learn to protect herself

not just from strangers but her own parents. 

So when she meets up with a boy that is so 

obviously not from her part of town, she really 

isn't sure what to make of him. 

Aidan Sterling knows what he is making 

of Jenny from the first minute. 

But he has no idea what to do about it.

 I have enjoyed every story from the 

Survivors series. From Rags to Kisses did not

surprise me. I loved it as well. Shana Galen 

has created such a wonderful group of friends. 

I will say that Aidan might be the strangest 

one of the bunch. But he doesn't fail. 

Just like all the rest, he is a true survivor. 

Review by Lisa Hutson

Susan's Review of Her Royal Payne by Shana Galen--Survivors Series -- 10

He’s a pain...literally.

Rowden Payne, known as The Royal Payne, makes his living in the high stakes world of bareknuckle boxing. The disavowed son of a duke likes the focus boxing requires. It keeps his mind off the tragedies in his past. But just as he’s poised to knock out his biggest rival, he’s mesmerized by a pair of exotic hazel eyes in the crowd. He finds himself flat on his back and short fifty pounds.

She’s a prude with a problem.

Modesty Brown’s father has vanished. Modesty’s only way of finding her is by asking the only man she knows of that class—Rowden Payne. Unfortunately, she’s the one responsible for the Royal Payne losing his crucial fight.

Sometimes the hardest hit is the one to the heart.

Rowden doesn’t want to care for anyone or anything, but if he can just help Modesty find her father, he can be rid of her. Soon the revelation of her father’s secrets and lies puts Modesty, Rowden, and their friends in danger.....

Danger . . .
Adventure . . .
Heartwarming Romances....

Shana Galen combines these story elements perfectly in the latest installment of The Survivor series-Her Royal Payne.

I enjoyed this well-paced, character driven novel. Shana Galen’s descriptive prose transports the reader into the boxing ring with Rowden. I could imagine Rowden dodging punches, evading his opponent and could sense the excitement of the crowd. I loved Rowden – his caring and protective nature appealed to me. The attraction between Rowden and Modesty is apparent from their first meeting and I loved how their feelings deepened. Modesty reaches out to Rowden for help after her Father disappears. Rowden arranges for Modesty to stay with Ewan Mostyn and Lady Lorraine and it was great fun to visit with one of my favorite couples!

Rowden’s manager Chibale Okoro is featured in this novel. Loved the relationship between Rowden and his boxing manager. Rowden trusted Chibale and took his advice on improving his boxing skills without hesitation. The author showed that even though Chibale was confident in giving orders to Rowden, he was hesitant in pursuing his relationship with modiste Therese Renauld. I rooted for this romance and enjoyed every word of their story.

Her Royal Payne has the perfect amount of passion, intrigue and danger. Shana Galen blends two romances with the excitement and danger of the boxing world. I enjoyed reading this novel because the author gave each couple time for their relationship to evolve. Rowden’s soft spot for Trogdon, Modesty’s desire to find her father, Chibale’s love for his family and Therese’s colorful bird Bluette enabled me to relate to each of the main characters. Loved the elements of danger that was threaded throughout the storyline.

I loved the characters and their stories in this fast paced novel and highly reccomend it.

Reviewed by

Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the author

Her Royal Payne by Shana Galen - Kindle edition

Her Royal Payne

by Shana Galen

★★★★★

Her Royal Payne is the next chapter in the

Survivors Series by Shana Galen. Rowden Payne

has written his own lifes path as he wanted to live it. 

"Some of them had bet against him of course, 

but most of them were smart enough to bet 

against the German. Rowden wasn't known

as The Royal Payne for nothing."

As things had gone for him, he knew he would 

never marry again. But of course, no historical,

romance writer worth her salt could let that stand. 

Rowden had the German on the ropes. 

"Even as his mind screamed, 'No!, his head turned 

to glance...."

Of course, he should not have turned his head. 

The most beautiful eyes of hazel were staring 

back at him.

And this is how a beautiful love story begins. 

I have enjoyed every chapter so far of the

Survivors Series. Have you ever heard the saying,

"Every story you have ever read was written

with the same 25 letters." 

So how can every story in this series be completely

its own? But Shana Galen manages that. She 

writes these characters that you feel close to. 

You feel like you know them. They are imperfect

and honorable. I hope you will find your way to

The Survivors. You do not need to start from the

beginning of the series. Each hero, each heroine 

have their own stories. And they are all 

wonderful stories. 

Review by Lisa Hutson

Susan's Review of Sweet Rogue of Mine by Shana Galen--The Survivors Series #9

An outcast who sees too much…A sharpshooter who’s lost his sight…
When a stray pistol ball from the battlefield took Nash’s sight, it also took his entire identity. He’s retreated to his father’s county home to lick his wounds, but his drinking and isolation have only made things worse. When Nash’s father, a powerful earl, threatens to send Nash to an asylum, his former brothers-in-arms call in one of their own to set Nash back on the right course. Nash fears he’s fallen too far and perhaps ending it all is the best solution. Until he encounters a woman in the garden signing a bawdy tune at the top of her lungs.


Prudence Howard has traveled the world with her missionary parents. But after the scandal she caused in Cairo, they’ve foisted her on a vicar in the small town of Milcroft and sailed to the Far East to evangelize without her. Pru doesn’t mean to cause trouble; it’s just that being good is so very hard. When she meets Nash Pope, she’s instantly intrigued. He might be hot-tempered, but he’s handsome and unusual and arouses her interest and passion like no one she’s ever met. He might not know he needs or even wants her help, but Pru has a plan to save him.
Together they glimpse a brighter future.
Nash is bewildered by the unconventional woman who keeps turning up on his doorstep. She tries to teach him night writing, claims a feral peacock is a momentous sign, and makes his toes curl when she kisses him. She refuses to give up on him. But though Nash finds it easy to believe in Pru, can he ever trust himself again?



<

Shana Galen is one of my favorite authors. Her novels are filled with captivating characters, intriguing conflict and sizzling romance. She pairs an unlikely couple – a blind soldier and a missionaries daughter-in Sweet Rogue of Mine resulting in an excellent read!

Nash Pope was a member of the Draven’s Dozen; a group of elite soldiers. As a sharpshooter, he played an important role in covert operations against Napoleon’s army. A piece of shrapnel leaves Nash blind but, more importantly, robs him of his identity and self-worth. Shana Galen writes Nash’s story with honestly and emotion. Nash’s struggle drew me into the story immediately.

Prudence Howard is Fabulous! She’s a free spirit, an intelligent and kind person. Although she’s travelled the world with her missionary parents, her manners, clothing and behavior aren’t accepted by most of residents in the village.

I loved this fast paced novel as it had several supporting sub plots. Rowden travels to Nash’s estate to help him get back on his feet and get the estate and its grounds in shape. As one of the survivors, Rowden understands what Nash experienced during the war. The pieces of Nash’s story unfold during the conversations between the two ex-soldiers and this information is significant to the story. Prudence experiences are important to the story as well. She wants to help Nash by teaching him night writing—a form of Braille. Both Nash and Prudence have scars. Nash’s are visible while Pru’s are emotional—these wounds bond the two characters. I was invested in their friendship, loved how they only believed the best in each other and enjoyed watching their friendship deepen into a romance.

If you are looking for a fast paced novel filled with fabulous characters and a fantastic story-pick up a copy of Sweet Rogue of Mine!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Kindle copy purchased through Amazon

Sweet Rogue of Mine by Shana Galen

 Sweet Rogue of Mine

by Shana Galen

Sweet Rogue of Mine is Book 9 of the

Survivors Series. It's easily my favorite 

Shana Galen series. Scheduled for 

February 9, 2021. 

Prudence Howard is humble and honest. 

She is kind to those around her. Pru will help 

anyone that needs it. And for some reason,

trouble seems to follow her around. Just waiting

for a chance to strike. 

Then there is Nash Pope. He has survived war, losing

his sight and bullets. He has survived his own best 

efforts to do himself in. Nash finds himself wandering

his property only to wind up stuck in the mud. 

Then he hears a woman singing. His life is forever changed. 

The next day, Prudence discovers his blindness. She tells

him that had she known, she would not have helped him

the day before. He is shocked that she would not have

helped him if she had known he was blind. As she explains 

to him, "Those who are blind or deaf or crippled want to be 

treated with the same dignity as everyone else."

"You offered assistance because you thought I had perfect vision."

"Exactly. I thought you were just being a typical man and

refusing help out of stupidity."

Nash all but choked at that statement. 

"But if turns out you were just being determined. I have been 

scolded by enough one-legged beggars to know that they 

would rather do it on their own. It's a point of pride. 

To offer assistance would be to imply I thought you were not

competent. I did not mean to make you feel so. 

"That is certainly an .....interesting way of thinking

about the world."

This gives you all you need to know about Pru. 

Nash and Pru have so many things against them. The world

does not generally look kindly at those with mental health 

issues or a wide open way of looking at life. Can the two 

of them come to terms? With each other? With those 

around them? Those that have left them? Those that have

been there thru the worst with them? 

Shana Galen has added a wonderful chapter to this series. 

 The Survivors continue on. Living and loving and enjoying life. 

Review by Lisa Hutson

Susan's Review of Snowbound with the Viscount By Shana Galen

The weather outside is frightful...

Holly Farthing is not in the Christmas spirit. As a young widow, the holidays of the past three years have been lonely. When her good friend invites her to a house party, Holly almost declines. Until she learns Viscount Ivy will be in attendance. Ivy was a close friend of Holly's brother at school, and she's pined after the new viscount for years. But the Lord Ivy has always treated her like a little sister. Predictably, at the house party, Ivy barely notices Holly. It seems she's lost her chance to capture his attention and affection...and then snow begins to fall.

But fireside with the viscount is delightful!

Adam Ivy is surprised when Holly arrives at the Dorsey house party alone. He assumed such a lovely young woman would be betrothed by now. Adam is drawn to Holly but unsure if there's anything more than friendship between them. Then Holly's future and reputation is plunged into danger, and Adam rushes to the rescue by proposing a false engagement. He's certain he can straighten the matter out quickly...and then the snow begins to fall.

As the temperatures turn frigid, passions between Holly and Adam simmer. But can Adam prove to Holly that his feelings are anything but false?

Shana Galen’s Snowbound with the Viscount is charming holiday romance!

Lady Dorsey’s house party was a complete disaster—the endless rainy weather had cancelled all of the outdoor activities. Her guests were tired of endless games of cards and billiards and were anxious to get home. No one was happy when a sudden snowstorm extends the party even longer!

The winter house party provided a unique setting for this novella. Lady Dorsey plays the role of matchmaker as she purposely invited her best Holly Farthing and Viscount James Ivy to her home. She knows that widowed Holly has feelings for Ivy but is too shy to act on them.

Shana Galen has created a fabulous hero that drew me into the story immediately. I loved reading about Ivy’s childhood adventures with Holly’s brother Edward and I wasn’t surprised that Holly loved Ivy from a distance. Loved that Lady Dorsey brings the couple together when she has Ivy ask Holly to dance. Ivy secured his spot as a swoon worthy hero when he rescues Holly from Lord Haggerston who threatens to ruin her late husband’s reputation.

Snowbound with Viscount is the perfect read for a cold, winter night! It has it all-a swoon worthy hero, a shy determined heroine, great secondary characters and the perfect amount of romance, conflict and intrigue!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Amazon purchase

Susan's Review of The Highlanders Excellent Adventure by Shana Galen

Just because they've run away...

Ines Neves and Emmeline Wellesley have both run away. Ines hid in a carriage from a tedious suitor, only to find, too late, the carriage had traveled out of London, not just around the block. To make matters worse, the carriage is that of a stranger: a handsome Highlander. Or perhaps a big, strapping Highlander makes matters better? Emmeline Wellesley has had four Seasons and cannot tolerate another. To force her mother to listen to her, she's run away. But things haven't gone well. She's been locked in a closet, had all her money stolen, and somehow adopted a dog. When an old family friend shows up to save her, she doesn't exactly welcome his help.

Doesn't mean they don't want to be found...

Duncan Murray doesn't know what to make of the Portuguese-speaking woman in his carriage. She refuses to return to London, so he takes her to meet Nash Pope, a so-called friend who speaks Portuguese. On the way, he meets up with former soldier Stratford Fortescue and Stratford's opinionated distant cousin, Miss Wellesley. The four travel together to Nash's estate, and that's when everything goes really wrong. On the run to Scotland, Duncan finds himself increasingly attracted to Ines, even though he knows he can never marry her. Stratford has always wanted Emmeline, but his family secret means he doesn't deserve her. This excellent adventure might bring the couples together, but only if they manage to elude gun shots, a murderous brother-in-law, a vicious dog, and outlaws!

Passion! Excitement! Danger!

These three words describe the feel of Shana Galen’s The Highlander’s Excellent Adventure.

I loved Ines, Duncan, Emmeline and Stratford and enjoyed that the novel was told from each character’s point of view. This was an excellent storyline choice because it enabled to reader to understand each character’s perspective and emotions.

Ines Neves desires passion, excitement and danger—and she knows she will not find it with the men her sister and brother- in -law have selected for her. Ines wants to choose her husband and make her own decisions. She has a secret crush on Duncan Murray who exudes passion, excitement and danger! Ines hides in a carriage to avoid a suitor and imagine her surprise when she wakes up in Duncan’s coach!

Emmeline is tired of London and dreads another season. She decides to run away to a relative’s house and Stratford is determined to find her. Their adventure begins Stratford finds her locked in a closet! Loved that Emmeline and Stratford harbored feelings for each other for years. Both were insecure—in different ways-and I loved their journey it really tugged at my heartstrings.

Shana Galen’s fast paced writing style and captivating characters drew me into the story immediately. This adventure is filled with humor, romance and the chemistry between each of the couples sizzles. Loved there were so many twists and turns – I was immersed in the story and had the sense that danger was lurking around each corner.

I recommend The Highlander’s Excellent Adventure – it’s an enjoyable novel filled with romance, danger and emotion. 

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by author

Book purchased through Amazon

Shana Galen is the bestselling author of fast-paced adventurous Regency historicals, including the RT Reviewers' Choice The Making of a Gentleman. Booklist says, "Galen expertly entwines espionage-flavored intrigue with sizzling passion," and RT Bookreviews calls her "a grand mistress of the action/adventure subgenre." She taught English at the middle and high school level off and on for eleven years. Most of those years were spent working in Houston's inner city. Now she writes full time. She's happily married and has a daughter who is most definitely a romance heroine in the making!

The Highlanders Excellent Adventure by Shana Galen

The Highlanders Excellent Adventure

by Shana Galen

★★★★★

It's another racing romance from the wonderful

Survivors Series. In this story, #8 of the series,

you get a rocking adventure with two couples! 

The Highlanders Excellent Adventure is filled with

 just that, adventure!  When your life isn't going as

you wish, sometimes you have limited ways to do 

something about it.  But if you're a smart, bold 

woman, you can take matters into your own hands. 

Ines and Emmeline do just that. They are each 

struggling to get their lives moving in the direction

they want. Separately, they take action. In the

process, they find themselves on an exciting trip

into Scotland. 

There is a lot of story in this book. I am a slow reader.

But I kept finding I had to read faster and faster to 

keep up with all the action. The bold women. The

crazy, brave men. A surprise dog. A friendly gunshot. 

A runaway carriage. The story is proof that love 

simply cannot be halted. 

Review by Lisa Hutson

Pre-order Spotlight on The Highlander's Excellent Adventure by Shana Galen

Meet Ines and Duncan & Emmeline and Stratford from 

The Highlander's Excellent Adventure

Coming September 8th! 

Available for pre-order! 

Amazon ❤  Barnes & Noble  ❤  iBooks  ❤  KOBO Print: Coming September 8th Goodreads

Just because they've run away...

Ines Neves and Emmeline Wellesley have both run away. Ines hid in a carriage from a tedious suitor, only to find, too late, the carriage had traveled out of London, not just around the block. To make matters worse, the carriage is that of a stranger: a handsome Highlander. Or perhaps a big, strapping Highlander makes matters better? Emmeline Wellesley has had four Seasons and cannot tolerate another. To force her mother to listen to her, she's run away. But things haven't gone well. She's been locked in a closet, had all her money stolen, and somehow adopted a dog. When an old family friend shows up to save her, she doesn't exactly welcome his help.

Doesn't mean they don't want to be found.

Duncan Murray doesn't know what to make of the Portuguese-speaking woman in his carriage. She refuses to return to London, so he takes her to meet Nash Pope, a so-called friend who speaks Portuguese. On the way, he meets up with former soldier Stratford Fortescue and Stratford's opinionated distant cousin, Miss Wellesley. The four travel together to Nash's estate, and that's when everything goes really wrong. On the run to Scotland, Duncan finds himself increasingly attracted to Ines, even though he knows he can never marry her. Stratford has always wanted Emmeline, but his family secret means he doesn't deserve her. This excellent adventure might bring the couples together, but only if they manage to elude gun shots, a murderous brother-in-law, a vicious dog, and outlaws.

Shana Galen is three-time Rita award nominee and the bestselling author of fast-paced, witty, and adventurous Regency romances. Kirkus says of her books, "The road to happily-ever-after is intense, conflicted, suspenseful and fun," and RT Bookreviews calls her books “lighthearted yet poignant, humorous yet touching." She taught English at the middle and high school level off and on for eleven years. Most of those years were spent working in Houston's inner city. Now she writes full time. She's happily married and has a daughter who is most definitely a romance heroine in the making. Want to know more? Visit Shana's website at http://www.shanagalen.com

Susan's Review of Kisses and Scandals: A Survivor's Anthology

You’ve met the men of the wildly popular Survivors series. Now meet the charming friends and relatives who walk the streets of London with them. Kisses and Scandal features three exciting novellas set in the Survivors’ world, including one never-before-published story.

Kisses and Scandal

Kisses and Scandals is not your typical Regency romance—it’s so much more! Shana Galen’s novella has interesting characters, a storyline filled with secrets and a romance that sizzles off the pages. Loved the unlikely friends to lovers romance which developed between Lady Philomena and James.

After her London season, Phil knew she wanted to marry for love. Loved that Phil acknowledged to herself that she felt something different when James kissed her. James is a different type of hero. He kept me guessing during the entire story. James was kind and honorable but there was a bit of mystery to him. The secondary story was fabulous. Phil’s mother is determined to arrange a marriage for Phil while the couple is falling in love in front of her!

Shana Galen adds an element of suspense to the novel when James is forced to reveal a secret. This plot twist added a bit of drama to this well- paced novella. Loved that Lady Mayne saved the day for Phil and James—and of course the ending had a few surprises, too!

Counterfeit Scandal
Bridget Lavery met Caleb Harris when they worked together—she was a counterfeiter and he was spy. Caleb was sent on a mission and presumed dead. Bridget married when she realized that she was pregnant with Caleb’s child. She left her son at an orphanage when she was sent to debtors prison and promised him they would be reunited.

I loved this fast paced story. Bridget was determined to find her son and needs Caleb’s help to search for him. Caleb agrees to help Bridget even though it puts him in danger. Loved how the search reunited this couple who learned to trust and love each other again. And the nail biting conclusion—just perfect!


How to Brew a Perfect Kiss

Shana Galen features Thomas Gaines and Raeni Sawyer in a fast paced novella. Loved that Thomas is a successful businessman and owns two coffee shops. Shana Galen blends Thomas’s wish to have his Bond street coffee shop succeed with his desire for Raeni perfectly.
Raeni escaped her family’s plantation because her father was going to sell her. She suspects she is being followed and this puts the couple in danger. The chemistry between the couple sizzles, there is intrigue and an important lesson about the value of freedom.
Loved the connection between the couple-the passion, the understanding and commitment. And the ending—truly romantic—just perfect.

This anthology is related to Shana Galen's Survivor series. I enjoyed reading Lady Philomena's story as she was mentioned in the Claiming of the Shrew. Bridget and Caleb's son Jimmy is one of the orphans in No Earls Allowed--and I am thrilled that Jimmy got his HEA! And Thomas Gaines was one of my favorite characters in An Affair with a Spare.

If you are looking for a book to read during "the isolaton", these novella are a perfect choice. Shana Galen is a gifted and entertaining storyteller- this novel is filled with engaging characters, suspense filled stories and heartwarming romances!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman
ARC provided by the Author

Kisses and Scandal by Shana Galen - Part of a Survivors Anthology

Kisses and Scandal

Part of a Survivors Anthology

by Shana Galen

★★★★★

Kisses and Scandal is the newest story in

the latest Shana Galen Anthology. These are

the friends and relatives of the characters in

the Survivors Series. 

Philomena is the daughter of a duke. She is 

quite beautiful. Phil has been hopeful for some 

time now. Hopeful to fall into a love story. She

knows it can happen. She has seen it happen!

But it might be too late for her. She knows her 

duty. Philomena must marry a man of 
substance. Money and status. She knows all that.
But is it too much to ask for a man that 
she can love as well? One who will love her?

James Finnegan is a lowly footman. Of course,
that is not what Lady Philomena sees when she
looks at James. She sees the love of her heart.
Handsome and sweet. James can make her laugh 
at the same time he makes her blood run warm.

Over time, James finds that he feels the same way. 
Unfortunately, during that time, James finds himself
in a spot. While it is a dangerous spot for him, it is 
also set to be a terrible spot for Lady Philomena. 

Can they find a way to keep James safe at the 
same time keeping Philomena safe? Because of 
their enormous differences in stature, they can 
never go any further with their feelings.
Or can they? 

Review by Lisa Hutson  

Susan's Review of How the Lady Was Won by Shana Galen-Survivors 7

When a master of disguise marries a woman who sees right through him…
     Lady Daphne, daughter of the Duke of Warcliffe, is one of the Three Suns. Society revolves around her. But there’s one person who doesn’t seem to know she’s alive—her own husband. Lady Daphne was thrilled to marry Colin FitzRoy, the son of her mother’s dear friend, seven years before. But then he left for the army, and their marriage never really had a chance. Now she’s in trouble, and Colin has reentered her life. She’s determined to refuse his help, especially after the way he’s treated her, but Colin can be persuasive…especially when he has her alone.

Baring it all is part of the seduction.
     Colin FitzRoy was known as The Pretender during the war. He’s an expert in the art of disguise, but even when he takes off the mask, he hides who he really is. Colin pretends he doesn’t have feelings, but when he’s thrust together with his estranged wife, his buried emotions resurface. Before long, Colin is juggling an elderly pug, a wife-hunting Scotsman, and a duplicitous street urchin in an effort to keep Daphne safe. But his greatest challenge is not only to seduce her but to win her heart

Lady Daphne FitzRoy is aware that her husband has returned to London after a seven- year absence. She is not amused that he has not returned home. In fact, Colin FitzRoy has been in England for over a year. Colin’s reluctance to reunite with his wife piqued my interest and drew me into Shana Galen’s new novel.

I adored the characters in this fast-paced story. Shana Galen has a knack for creating strong heroines. Daphne may wear her signature color of pink and her gowns may contain an overabundance of bows but, she’s a strong , determined woman. Her big mistake? She overplayed her hand at a game of cards and owes a small fortune to the wrong person. I admired Daphne for owning her mistake and wanting to be the one to fix it.

Colin’s sobriquet in the Survivor’s group was The Pretender. He had the ability to assume another’s identity and could blend into a crowd. He was devastated after his mother’s death and he learned to keep his feelings to himself. He didn’t want to form an attachment to anyone or fall in love as he might lose them. Colin endeared himself to me when he remembered conversations with his mother and when he took care of Pugsley, his mother’s pug.

Loved how the story unfolded. Colin figures out that Daphne is in serious trouble. He enlists a few of the Survivors to help Daphne. Loved Duncan Murray—such a great character—and his mission? To find a bride. Each scene that contained Duncan was a pleasure to read! The banter between Daphne and Colin was fabulous-I enjoyed their entertaining conversations! The chemistry between the couple was more of a slow burn with a few sparks! Colin was definitely attracted to Daphne but he struggled with their relationship. The balance between intrigue and danger was perfect—this book held my interest and each page reveled something important about the couple’s journey.

How the Lady was Won is part of the author’s Survivors series—but can be read and enjoyed as a stand- alone book. I enjoyed this fast-paced novel, adored the characters and loved Colin and Daphne’s journey.

If you are looking for an entertaining character driven novel—pick up a copy of How the Lady was Won-you will love it!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman
ARC provided by the author

How the Lady Was Won by Shana Galen

How the Lady Was Won

by Shana Galen

★★★★★

Another addition to the Survivors series from

Shana Galen! 

This one is Colins story. He has been known 

among the Survivors as the Pretender. 

He finds himself in a situation where these

skills work well! 

Lady Daphne has been Colins wife for 7 years. 

Though she almost didn't even know it. 

They had their very forgettable honeymoon night.

And then, Colin was gone. 

Now, Daphne knows he is back in town. Even 

though she has yet to see anything of him. 

They are both fabulous characters to read. 

The story is different. Neither Colin or Daphne

have been sleeping around in their separation.

That alone is unusual. 

They both have insecurities. Will either of them

admit their feelings? Will Colin be able to accept 

that he must let down his guard? Can Daphne

take her rightful place in society? What does 

37 bows have to do with anything?

I have found How the Lady Was Won to be

a wonderful story. Great, big feelings.

Very unique characters. I enjoyed it 

very much. 

Review by Lisa Hutson