Gayle's Review of Look Before You Leap by Virginia Heath

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The second hilarious and heartwarming novel in the Miss Pretence’s Protégées Regency romp of a series

Nine years ago, Lord Guy Harrowby, Viscount of Wennington, was publicly humiliated when a reckless romantic gesture went very wrong. Despite that, his mother held tight to the promise he made her then: that she would have a house full of grandchildren by his thirtieth birthday. Still single, embittered, and swiftly approaching that milestone birthday, there’s not a grandchild in sight. His heart now lies with his land and work is his life. In desperation, his mother decides that if he refuses to venture back into society to find her future daughter-in-law, the only solution is to bring society to him via a weeklong houseparty so that she can find one for him. The first Guy knows about her plan is when her hand-picked gaggle of debutantes arrive at his estate, all competing to be his wife.

After failing miserably as a governess, Lottie Travers isn’t proving to be any better at being a lady’s companion. As the only girl in an all-male household growing up, she’s developed several bad habits she can’t shake and keep getting her dismissed. Even after years of Miss Prentice’s teachings, Lottie still climbs a tree better than she embroiders, and still cannot seem to curb the desire to gallop astride a horse in breeches whenever an opportunity arises. But with the family farm in trouble, and her father now in dire need of her wages to keep it afloat, she’s determined to conquer her wildness once and for all and concentrate on her career.

Even with his home full of eligible women, there is only one that catches Guy’s eye, as much as he tries to deny it. And succeeding in her new role is easier said than done for Lottie when the Wennington Estate is filled with horses and she can’t help but feel a spark around the grumpy Lord. By the end of the week, will the two of them remain stuck in their ways, or will they learn that they may just be the perfect match?

Do you love grumpy heroes and feisty heroines? Look no further than Look Before You Leap by the talented Virginia Heath. Look Before You Leap is the second book in Miss Prentice’s Protege’s, but it easily reads as a standalone. Lottie Travers and her friends were students at Miss Prentice’s School for Young Ladies and she has returned to the school after losing her job as a governess. Lottie is at a crossroads and her future looks gloomy. She needs to find employment soon to help her family farm. Lottie’s love of horses and her creative way of finding a horse to ride has caused issues in her past employment. Yet despite the trouble it has caused she continues to need to ride and the faster the better. On one such wild ride in Hyde Park on a borrowed horse she meets Lord Guy Harrowby, Viscount Wennington and sparks fly. Or hooves. Such a great meeting and Lottie and the Guy are destined to annoy each other all the while fighting a growing mutual attraction. This couple are obviously soul mates and there is more than their love of horses that bring them together. Throw in great side characters such as the hero’s widowed mother who just wants to throw him a birthday party, his outrageous but caring aunt who happens to be Lottie's new employer and a party of unwanted conniving debutantes, this story rolls right along with chaos and charm. Guy and Lottie are a well-matched pair who navigate the pitfalls of their blooming relationship with humor and passion. There are funny situations and touching ones as well. Look Before You Leap is perfect for old and new fans of Virginia Heath. Look Before You Leap is one of my favorite books that Virginia Heath has written. Do yourself a favor and grab this book, I know you will love it. 

☆☆☆☆☆ Reviewed by Gayle  Review ARC provided by St. Martin's Press, St. Martin's Griffin via Netgalley Publication date: June 24, 2025

#Entertaining #Funny #Happily-Ever-After #Favorite Author #Wonderful characters

Review of Never Wager with a Wallflower

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Never Wager with a Wallflower is the third and final delightful installment in Virginia Heath's Merriwell Sisters Regency rom-com series.

Miss Venus Merriwell has been waiting for her prince to come since the tender age of fourteen. She wants a man who is a selfless academic like her, and free from all the wretched vices her gambler father enjoyed far too much before he left the Merriwell sisters practically destitute. Unfortunately, after a slew of romantic disappointments, there is still no sign of that prince at twenty-three and the only one true love of her life is the bursting-at-the-seams orphanage in Covent Garden that she works tirelessly for. An orphanage that desperately needs to expand into the empty building next door.

For Galahad Sinclair, gambling isn’t just his life, it’s in his blood. He grew up and learned the trade at his grandfather’s knee in a tavern on the far away banks of the Hudson in New York. But when fate took all that away and dragged him across the sea to London, it made sense to set up shop here. He’s spent five years making a success out of his gaming hall in the sleazy docks of the East End. Enough that he can finally afford to buy the pleasure palace of his dreams—and where better than in the capital’s sinful heart, Covent Garden? The only fly in his ointment is the perfect building he’s just bought to put it in also happens to be right next door to the orphanage run by his cousin’s wife’s youngest sister. A pious, disapproving and unsettling siren he has avoided like the plague since she flattened him five years ago.

While Venus and Galahad lock horns over practically everything, and while her malevolent orphans do their darndest to sabotage his lifelong dream, can either of them take the ultimate gamble—and learn to love thy neighbor?

Imprint Publisher

St. Martin's Griffin

ISBN

9781250787804

Never Wager with a Wallflower by Virginia Heath is a wonderful conclusion to The Merriwell Sisters series. Venus Merriwell, the youngest sister, meets her match in Galahad Sinclair. Once again Virginia Heath has ended another series with a fabulous book. Never Wager with a Wallflower is everything that I have come to expect from Virginia Heath and so much more. A believable romance, witty dialogue, situational challenges and heart touching moments made Never Wager with a Wallflower my favorite book in the series, though all were fabulous.

I will admit I had real concerns about the likability of both of the main characters coming into the book. They meet in a dramatic way in Never Rescue a Rogue, book 2 of the series. The youngest Merriwell Sister, Venus, was a little petulant in books 1 & 2 as befitted the youngest sister and I had a hard time picturing how she would turn out as the heroine of her own book. Both Venus and her hero turned out to be just perfect. I loved the interactions between Venus and Galahad. They share troubled childhoods and their path to happily-ever-after is strewn with troublesome but well meaning relatives and friends. It was great to see the characters returning from previous books and was such an entertaining read. Some of my favorite things about this book were Galahad's interactions with Venus and her orphans. The attraction between the hero and heroine was believable and the ultimate conclusion was satisfying.

Virginia Heath always delivers memorable characters, enjoyable dialogue and entertaining situations. Highly recommend The Merriwell Sisters series to fans of happily-ever-after. 

Reasons I enjoyed this book:
#Romantic #Wonderfulcharacters #Entertaining #HappilyEverAfter #historicalromance #Witty

Reviewed by Gayle

ARC provided by St. Martin's Press, St. Martin's Griffin via Netgalley

Gayle's review of Never Rescue of Rogue (Book 2) 

Gayle's Review of Never Rescue a Rogue

Never Rescue a Rogue is the second book in Virginia Heath's series The Merriwell Sisters. Never Rescue a Rogue is a lovely romance with a fantastic cast of memorable characters. I loved this book even more than the first one in the series. There is a believable romance in Never Rescue a Rogue and it has understated humor, mystery and witty dialogue which appealed to me. 

The hero and heroine are first introduced in Never Fall for Your Fiancée. When Diana and Giles met and rubbed each other the wrong way but had obvious chemistry. I had hoped that they would be the main characters of the second book. 

The heroine Diana Merriwell is the middle sister and she is such an interesting character. I love Diana's skill set and the way she handles family and professional situations in her life. Diana behaves in a manner that makes sense to me and I was thrilled with her development throughout the book. I like her spunk and determination. Her relationship with Giles develops in a believable way.

Giles Sinclair is the best friend of the hero from book one and he is a man with a reputation or is he? Giles has his reasons for his outlandish behaviors and the reader gets to discover the truth of the matter along with Diana. Giles is protective without being stifling and I enjoyed his character very much. I always end up adoring Virginia Heath's heroes and Giles is no exception.

There is intrigue, passion and humor along with the standard wit and character development that Virginia Heath consistently brings to her writing. I really liked how visual this book was for me and Virginia's descriptions brought the locations, history and situations to life. Never Rescue a Rogue a definite must read .

Reviewed by Gayle

ARC provided by St. Martin's Press, St. Martin's Griffin

Sweet Madness by Heather Snow - Audio Version

Sweet Madness

by Heather Snow

 ★★★★★

I have read this one several times. This is 

my first time listening to it. Kate Marcin is

the narrator. She did a fine job. Her accent

is not over the top. She is understandable. 

I believe she is also the voice of the other

three stories from the Veiled Seduction 

series by Heather Snow. So I will be 

looking into them.

 As for the story. I love it! It is a story 

starring a strong, intelligent, kind, 

determined woman. She has devoted 

her time to helping men who struggle

with PTSD. It is my favorite thing with a

Heather Snow book.

Penelope is not just a feminine, lovely 

woman. She adds to society. To others. 

She is advancing science and medicine.

At the same time, 

helping someone very dear to her. 

It is not often I find historical romance

reading women in the science and 

medicine fields. I love reading this story. 

I can highly recommend it. 

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

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

Susan's Review of The Truth About Dukes by Grace Burrowes

A new duke and a woman with a secret in her past get a second chance at love.

Robert Rothmere is hiding a past no duke should have endured, but he's not hiding it well enough. Sooner or later, his enemies will learn that he spent years locked away at a private asylum. To get their hands on his wealth, they'll try to send him right back to his worst nightmares. If Robert is to foil their schemes, he needs to marry a perfectly proper, blessedly boring, deadly dull duchess, immediately—and he knows exactly which quietly delightful lady he'd love to entrust with that role.

Lady Constance Wentworth has cultivated a reputation for utter forgettability. She never speaks out of turn (in public), never has a daring thought (that she admits aloud), and never comes close to courting scandal... as far as anybody knows. Her path crossed Robert's years ago, though, and she's never forgotten the extraordinary lengths he traveled to keep her safe when she hadn't a friend in the world. She longs to be his demure duchess...but little does he know that to marry her would be utter madness.

At first glance Robert Rothmere and Constance Wentworth appear to be an unlikely couple. An act of kindness brought them together during a difficult time in their lives. The bond between them intrigued me and drew me into the story immediately.

Robert and Constance’s story is exquisitely written. I loved that the couple gave each other courage and strength when they most needed it. Robert is a kind man-he thinks of everyone and their feelings before his own. Constance’s love and support toward Robert never wavered-she unequivocally believed in him. I loved that Constance and Robert brought color into each other’s lives. Robert’s walled garden and its beautiful array of colors delighted Constance. Robert admired Constance’s art ; the sketches, the colors and perspective.

The Truth about Dukes is an emotional, character driven novel. Robert Rothmere is truly a swoon worthy hero. His love for Constance is the heart and soul of the story. Robert has to overcome several obstacles to help Constance. Grace Burrowes wove in a perfectly paced side story filled with small town drama which threatened the couple’s happiness. Each of the secondary characters adds to the story line. I loved that Stephen Wentworth was featured in this story and I am patiently waiting for his story to be told.

I highly recommend The Truth About Dukes. Robert and Constance’s love story will tug at your hearts strings. I felt the romance, the love, the anguish and the joy in this thought provoking story.

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by Publisher

Book also purchased via Amazon 

Find all of The Truth About Dukes buy links at Grace Burrowes' website!  

  

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

I Dared The Duke by Anna Bennett

I Dared The Duke

by Anna Bennett

★★★★★

Anna Bennett is a new author read for me.

A reading group that I follow was having a

special event. Anna Bennett was the 

featured author. 

I found that my library had a few of her

stories. I am not particular about reading 

a series in order. I Dared The Duke was 

available right away. Even though it was 

the middle book in the Wayward Wallflowers

series, I chose it. 

I thoroughly enjoyed it. You never know with

a new writer. But it was a fun and busy story.

I had not pegged who the bad guy was 
before the end.Which I love!! 
There was more romantic, family

and getting to know each other than crisis

reading. Which I love!! And the grumpy, 

lonely Duke of Blackshire falls in love with

Miss Elizabeth Lacey before he can blink. 

Which I love!! I guess you may be getting the

idea that I loved this book. 

The most fun part is that I won a book 

from Anna Bennett during that evenings

event! Not only did I just get a book in 

the mail from her but a very nicely 

wrapped book with some swag! I have

not read the won book yet. But I am glad

to have it. I can certainly recommend

I Dared The Duke. 

I borrowed this copy from the library.

Review by Lisa Hutson

Susan's Review of A Duke By Any Other Name by Grace Burrowes

Nathaniel Rothmere, Duke of Rothhaven, is not amused. His orchard has been invaded by a herd of pigs, Yes, pigs; the 400 -pound variety! And they belong to his neighbor- the pesky Althea Wentworth. Lady Althea needs the Duke’s help. She has written him, visited him but has not met him. Nathaniel Rothmere’s reputation proceeds him. He’s antisocial, grumpy and rude. Althea needs the Duke’s help to learn how to fit into local society.

I adored the pairing of the strong- willed, proud Althea with the reclusive, compassionate Nathaniel Rothmere. The pigs in the orchard scene was fabulously written and entertaining. It drew me into the story immediately. Althea was thrust into polite society when her brother unexpectedly inherited a dukedom. She was not welcomed by her peers and has decided to retreat to her country estate. Althea’s desire for a husband, family and home resonated with me. She wanted something that most people take for granted.

It took me a few chapters to warm up to Nathaniel. I adored the servants Treegum, Elgin and Thatcher who took care of Nathaniel, his run down estate and kept his secrets. The trio of servants added a lot of love and laughter to the story. Loved Nathaniel’s secret visits to Lynley Vale. The friendship and ensuing romance which developed between Althea and the Nathaniel is perfectly paced. Nathaniel can’t help himself; he desires Althea. But, Nathaniel has is keeping a secret- a secret that prevents him from pursuing his own happiness.

Grace Burrowes is a gifted storyteller who creates memorable characters that are relatable. I emphasized Althea’s desire for a child, her determination to not be bullied by her peers and her love for Nathaniel. I understood why Nathan and his servants were so dedicated in keeping their secret. Loved the family bonds between both the Wentworths and Rothmeres. Stephen Wentworth is featured in this novel—loved his nosy conversations with Milly, Althea’s companion. He loves to be in the middle of family drama.

A Duke by Any Other Name can be read as a stand-alone novel. It’s an entertaining read filled with secrets, surprises and romance. The conclusion to this novel is fast-paced and perfectly written. As Nathaniel struggles with an important decision, Althea hosting a dinner for the local gentry attended by the town’s biggest gossip who has set her sights on her. Will Nathaniel support Althea and attend her event?

Grace Burrowes choice to set up a fantastic story for Constance and Robert instead of writing the usual six month happily ever after epilogue was fabulous! I was so intrigued by the pairing of Constance and Robert that I preordered The Truth About Dukes!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Book purchased through Amazon.

Susan's Review of Janna Macgregor's Wild, Wild Rake

Her first marriage was an epic failure.

Lady Avalon Warwyck never did love her husband. Arrogant, selfish, and cruel, it’s a blessing when she’s widowed and left to raise her son all by herself. Finally, Avalon can live freely and do the work she loves: helping fallen women become businesswomen. She’s lived these past ten years with no desire to remarry―that is, until Mr. Devan Farris comes to town.

Can he convince her to take another chance at happily ever after?

Devan Farris―charming vicar, reputed rake, and the brother of Avalon’s son’s guardian―is reluctantly sent to town to keep tabs on Avalon and her son. Devan wishes he didn’t have to meddle in her affairs; he’s not one to trod on a woman’s independent nature and keen sense of convictions. But she’ll have nothing to do with vicar with a wild reputation―even though he’s never given his heart and body to another. If only he could find a way to show Avalon who he really is on the inside―a good, true soul looking for its other half. But how can prove that he wants to love and care for her. . .until death do they part?

Devan Farris and Avalon Cavensham are not on good terms. Devan has not forgiven Avalon for jilting his best friend and has given her the sobriquet of Lady Warlock. Avalon believes the gossip in the Midnight Cryer that Devan has earned his reputation as the Naughty Vicar. I wondered how Janna MacGregor was going to craft a love story for two people who disliked each other so much.

Janna MacGregor make a great choice by setting the novel ten years after Avalon married Richard, the Duke of Warwyk. Now widowed, Avalon has moved to the family estate in Thistledown to raise her son and sister. She is loved and respected by her neighbors. Avalon has a passion—she’s devoted to helping women who want to better themselves. Gavin Farris is the guardian of Avalon’s son. He is convinced that Lady Warwyk is using funds from the estate to purchase the buildings and equipment to fund the homes she is building. He decides to send his brother Devan to spy on Avalon.

Loved reading the scenes which depicted Avalon is fighting her attraction to Devan. His presence unsettles her! Avalon ogles Devan during their first meeting and she is horrified when he tells her he has a collection of Midnight Cryers that feature his bad boy reputation!

I adored Devan. He enjoys being a vicar-he cares for his parishioners and community. He’s a handsome man, a consummate flirt and a romantic. Devan accepts the position and agrees to tutor Thane-Avalon’s son. This choice puts him in close contact with Avalon—and both of them realize that they misjudged the other. Loved the chemistry between Avalon and Devan. Sparks flew each time they were in the same room or shared a conversation. The romance was a slow, sensuous burn and it gave the readers a chance to understand that Devan was devoted to Avalon. Both of them needed to trust each other and believe the best of each other.

Janna MacGregor’s primary and secondary characters are well developed in the Wild. Wild Rake. I enjoyed reading about the real Devan Farris-not the person depicted in the Midnight Cryer. Avalon’s story was heartbreaking, I admired her courage to put the past behind her and create a new life for her family. The descriptive writing style and the dialogue is outstanding—the witty, teasing banter between the couple is laugh out loud funny! The plot is well developed and contains several plot twists.

Wild, Wild Rake has all the feels- a heartwarming, emotional; story between an unlikely pair, great supporting characters and a sensuous, complicated romance. I loved that Lady Warlock cast her spell on Devan—it provided the perfect ending to the series!

Susan's Review of When the Marquess Mine by Caroline Linden

In the game of love…

Georgiana Lucas despises the arrogant and cruel Marquess of Westmorland even before learning that he's won the deed to her friend Kitty's home in a card game. Still, Georgiana assures Kitty the marquess wouldn't possibly come all the way to Derbyshire to throw them out—until he shows up, bloody and unconscious. Fearing that Kitty would rather see him die, Georgiana blurts out that he's her fiancé. She'll nurse the hateful man back to health and make him vow to leave and never return. The man who wakes up, though, is nothing like the heartless rogue Georgiana thought she knew…

You have to risk it all
He wakes up with no memory of being assaulted—or of who he is. The bewitching beauty tending him so devotedly calls him Rob and claims she's his fiancée even as she avoids his touch. Though he can't remember how he won her hand, he's now determined to win her heart. But as his memory returns and the truth is revealed, Rob must decide if the game is up—or if he'll take a chance on a love that defies all odds.



<

Caroline Linden’s When the Marquess was Mine is the third novel in the Wagers of Sins series. It features socialite Georgiana Lucas and Rob, the Marquess of Westmoreland. I adored the well-paced romance that developed between Georgiana and Rob; loved the couple’s conversations and their chemistry sizzled. There was one slight problem—Georgie was engaged to someone else!

Sir Charles Winston has joined a card game at the Vega Club. He’s in over his head at a game of loo, wagers his home and loses to it to Robert Churchill-Gray, the Marquess of Westmorland. Georgina Lucas is enjoying a long visit with her friend Kitty in the country; the visit is interrupted when an urgent letter arrives from Kitty’s husband. Sir Charles has written to his wife to warn her that the Marquess may arrive at their country home-and warns her not to let him in.

Georgiana tells Kitty that the Marquess would not travel to the country to evict them-he’s too busy gambling and drinking in London. Georgiana is surprised to find Westmorland beaten, bloody and left for dead. She brings him to Kitty’s home and tells everyone that he’s her fiancé, Viscount Sterling. This ruse worked because Rob is suffering from amnesia. Loved that this plot twist put Georgiana and Rob is close company; Georgiana realized that she had misjudged Rob and was falling in love with him. Caroline Linden’s descriptive writing shines as the couple falls deeply in love.

The arrival of Lord Thomas Churchill-Gray adds another layer to the complex storyline. Thomas has been searching for his brother. He confronts Georgiana and they agree to meet the next day. Rob recognizes his brother and understands that he is not Georgiana’s fiancée-he’s the evil Lord Westmoreland!

Loved the complication of Georgiana’s engagement to Sterling played in the novel. I had wondered if he was a fictional character because he was mentioned, but not seen. Sterling and Georgiana’s step brother, Alistair are keeping a secret that threatens her financial security. Loved that Georgiana’s friend Sophie devised a fabulous plan to bring down Alistair at the Vega Club. The conclusion to the novel is perfectly paced – and full of tension and intrigue. Tempers rose as the pot increased with each deal of the cards, fortunes were wagered and accusations were made when the winner claimed the pot.

I highly recommend When the Marquess was Mine! Kudos to Caroline Linden for creating an original story filled with passion, intrigue and a bit of wagering! And the conclusion is perfect for the couple—just perfect!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the Author

Susan's Review of The Bachelors of Bond Street-Janna MacGregor, Shana Galen and Minerva Spencer

Love by the Letters by Janna MacGregor

Portia Bellingham and Gabriel St. Aulyn’s story enchanted me. Portia had suffered through three seasons without finding love. She’s decided that her sister Bea is not going to be humiliated in the same way. Portia writes a heartfelt love letter to Bea’s beau. The problem? It’s delivered to Gabriel, not Hugh Merritt.
Janna MacGregor’s descriptive writing shines in this novel! Loved how the romance between Portia and Gabe unfolded. I related to Portia; she never, ever thought someone would love a merchant’s daughter who wore glasses and was a bluestocking. Gabriel believed women were interested in his money, not in him. Loved that Portia expressed her feeling in the letter and Gabriel was thrilled to receive the letter.
Loved the passionate romance between the couple and the ending was fabulous! I was so invested in the romance that I never saw it coming!

How to Brew a Perfect Kiss by Shana Galen

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.

A Second Chance for Love by Minerva Spencer

This was a sizzling, second chance romance. Justin Taylor and Oona Parker met when they worked for Viscount Venable. Justin believed that Oona got him fired, blamed her for the consequences and is holding a grudge.
Justin is now a wealthy businessman who offers Oona a job for seven days-she’s to pose as his mistress at a house party. I enjoyed reading the couple’s journey to the house party and I knew both of them were keeping secrets from each other. Minerva Spencer writes a fabulous story for Justin and Oona—their feelings are intense, the sensuous romance is off the charts and the banter is spot on. Oona and Justin take refuge at a farmhouse during a blizzard. This visit was heartwarming and brought several surprising revelations to both of the characters.
Loved that a big piece of this story was about compassion and forgiveness --- and love.

I am thrilled to recommend these novellas. Loved that the authors stayed within the same framework by featuring bachelors who owned buisneeses on Bond street. This connection plus each author's characters worked for me. I adored Janna MacGregor and Shana Galens novels and their stories exceeded my expectaions. Minerva Spencer is a new to me author. By reading her well plotted character driven novel-- I have found another author to enjoy.


Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by Shana Galen

Susan's Review of A Duke A Dozen by Shana Galen

They call him the Doomed Duke.
Phineas Duncombe, ninth Duke of Mayne, should not be the duke. After all, he had four—count them—four older brothers! Phin never wanted the dukedom, and the suspicious circumstances of the eighth duke’s death lead Phin to question the Countess of Longstowe. The beautiful widow isn’t at all what Phin expected. He’s intrigued by her and determined to seduce her. The countess is not interested in Phin romantically, but when she comes to him with another request, he can’t deny it. A few days in the country with Lady Longstowe reveal two truths to the new duke. One, he cares for the countess much more than any other woman he’s ever known. Two, Phin either has very bad luck or someone is trying to kill him.

They call her the Wanton Widow.
Annabel was barely eighteen when she was married to the elderly Earl of Longstowe. A harsh, sadistic man, the earl’s death was not something Annabel mourned. Now in her mid-forties, Annabel enjoys her widowhood and has no desire to ever be under a man’s thumb again. Not even a handsome duke like Mayne, who is far too young for her anyway. Annabel’s one desire is to find the daughter who was taken away from her. For that she needs a man with power and status. She needs the Duke of Mayne. When the two are thrust together, Annabel struggles to fight her attraction to the charming Phin. She’s losing the battle. But can she ever trust another man, especially with the one part of herself she’s never given away—her heart?

I loved the pairing of Phineas Duncombe, the ninth Duke of Mayne and Lady Annabel Longstowe; it’s a fabulous twist on the May-December romance! Annabel is 15 years older than Phin and her reputation as The Wanton Widow is the talk of the town. Loved the scene when Phin asks Annabel about the nature of her relationship with his late brother. This conversation between the characters sets the tone for the novel. A jealous Phin tries to determine if his brother and Annabel were lovers. Loved that Annabel remained cool, calm and collected and then challenged Phin as to the real reason for their meeting!

Annabel has a secret and she needs a powerful ally to help her. She knows that Phin is sexually attracted to her. Annabel uses this knowledge to her advantage when she asks him to help her locate her daughter. Loved that Phin struggled with his attraction towards Annabel when she started to disrobe-he was very, very distracted- but, agreed to help Annabel. I loved the sexual chemistry between Phin and Annabel and that he truly wanted to help her.

Annabel and Phin begin their adventure by travelling to Ceald House. Annabel believes that her late husband’s papers may hold clues to her daughter’s whereabouts. Loved that the author employed a double romance-Annabel and Phin and Meg and Reynolds. This choice added so much to my enjoyment of the novel! Loved that Phin cared for Annabel and that she began to trust him during their adventure while their servants were falling in love below stairs!

A Duke A Dozen is a fabulous story – the characters are relatable and their journey is poignant. The author weaves in lots of social commentary and a bit of intrigue. Shana Galen has a gift for writing smart, witty conversations infused with humor for her characters; the conversations between Phin and Annabel are marvelous. The conclusion to the novel is superbly written and I loved the ending which surprised me!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the author

Review of The Determined Lord Hadleigh

The Determined Lord Hadleigh is a wonderful and sweet ending to another fantastic series by Virginia Heath. As with Virginia Heath's previous series, The Wild Warriners, I really didn't want The King's Elite to end.  Each book in the series has had its own special flair, and I loved every moment of every book of The King's Elite. I've been curious about Lord Hadleigh throughout the series and was thrilled that I was able to read his story.

Lord Hadleigh is a barrister from the previous three books who is stoic and driven but with loads of hero potential.  In book one and two he is all business, but his decisive nature plays an important role. In book 3 he is all business but shows a little more personality and is also pivotal in spurring Lord Gray to acknowledge his feeling for Thea the heroine. When Hadleigh becomes the hero of his own book, The Determined Lord Hadleigh, we really get to see what makes him so determined.

Virginia has paired Hadleigh with Penny from, book 1, The Mysterious Lord Millcroft. Penny suffered a terrible trauma and betrayal which has left her a widow and mother of a small child. I was excited to see how Virginia Heath handled Penny and she did an amazing job. Penny is a fantastic heroine and perfect for Hadleigh. I love that Penny does not want to be beholden to anyone and wants to recover her life on her own terms.

Great story, terrific characters and cameos from some of my favorites from the series. I was especially happy to see Sebastian and Clarissa from The Mysterious Lord Millcroft. (My favorite!)  I loved Seb's off page conversation with Penny, where he confuses her with the analogy of the nut and the mallet. Loved the epilogue. Basically, I loved everything about this book.

If you love Julia Quinn, you’ll love Virginia Heath.

Review by Kixcatmom -G Cochrane