Tag Archives: Historical Romance

How to School Your Scoundrel by Juliana Gray – a Review

Posted on by
11

How to School Your Scoundrel by Juliana Gray – a Review

 

How To School Your Scoundrel
A Princess in Hiding series – Book #3
by Juliana Gray
Release Date: June 3, 2014

How to School a Scoundrel

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BMM

 

Description:
Princess Luisa has devoted her life to duty, quietly preparing to succeed her father as ruler. Nothing, however, primed her to live on the run, disguised as a personal secretary to a notorious English scoundrel. The earl is just the man to help her reclaim her throne, but Luisa is drawn to her powerful employer in ways she never imagined…

Philip, Earl of Somerton, has spent six years married to a woman in love with another man—he refuses to become a fool due to imprudent emotions ever again. Only, as his carefully laid plans for vengeance falter, fate hands him hope for redemption in the form of a beautiful and determined young princess who draws him into a risky game of secrets, seduction, and betrayal. And while his cunning may be enough to save her life, nothing can save him from losing his heart


Review:
How to School Your Scoundrel by Juliana Gray is the 3rd book in her historical romance, A Princess in Hiding series. I very much enjoyed the first two books in this series, as Juliana Gray does a wonderful job in creating a fun storyline with a little bit of everything; romance, historical, mystery, danger, but above all the story had a lot of humor, and was joy to read.

A quick but spoiler free background on this series: Three princesses (Louisa, Stefanie and Emilie) find themselves targets in a deadly plot against the crown, that has already killed their father. Their uncle, the Duke of Olympia, puts together a plan to separate them in disguise, until it is safe.

This is Louisa’s story, as she is sent to the mansion of the Earl of Somerton, to be his assistant. What I love about these stories is the fun watching each of these young ladies in disguise, and how the hero of the book finds himself becoming somewhat attracted to them. Gray does this so well.

Somerton is our anti-hero, who comes across early on as ruthless, and arrogant. We met him in a previous series of Gray’s, and at that time he was an unlikely hero. Early on, when Louisa arrives to work for Somerton as Mr. Markham, we found ourselves not liking him. Somerton is in an unhappy marriage, as his wife of 6 years, pines for another man, and all he wants is revenge against the man in question. Louisa sympathizes with the wife and her young son, since Somerton is cruel, angry and mean to his wife, totally ignoring her. I personally thought he had every reason to feel this way. J

Somerton tests Mr. Markham, sending him on wild goose chases to ensure his loyalty. It is Markham to finds the proof for Somerton about his wife’s love of the other man. At this point, Somerton finds himself losing control, but it is Louisa who will help him see the light. . Eventually, in time, things will change and he will see the woman under the disguise.

Louisa visits often her “aunt” (Duke Olympia) to check up on her sisters, as it is Louisa who will become the ruler of the crown, and she is the one the traitors are trying to find and kill. She knows she needs someone powerful, like Somerton to help her reclaim her throne, not to mention she finds herself falling for him.

What follows is a wonderful romance, which you knew was coming, but totally took us by surprise as how great they were together. The fact that Gray can redeem someone like Somerton, who was a villain in a previous story, not to mention his unlikeability early on tells you how terrific a writer she is.

How to School a Scoundrel not only is a wonderful, sexy and fun romance, but it also an exciting mystery, with danger throughout that heads to a wild frenzied climax, with a few twists along the way. It was fun to see everyone from all three books come together to fight the enemy. I love Juliana Gray’s writing, as she creates wonderful couples, great secondary characters, and adds such fun humor to her stories. If you enjoy historical romances, with a little bit of mystery, sexy romance, and just simply a delightful read, then this book is for you.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

Share

Love’s Sorrow by Terri Rochenski – a Review

Posted on by
12

Love’s Sorrow by Terri Rochenski – a Review

 

Love's SorrowAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository

Description:
Hired as a nanny for her cousin’s children, Anne Tearle finds security and a loving family. The children are a dream, but London society is a world of its own, one where a displaced farm girl has no business being. But, wealthy rake, Gavin MacKay, helps her to see associating with the upper class might not be as horrid as she first assumed.

Like all things worthwhile, love comes at a price, and the cost soon bestows more anguish than joy. Lost, but not undone, Anne must find the courage to begin life anew, or succumb to sorrow’s unrelenting waves of grief.

 

Review
Love’s Sorrow is the first book of the Means of Mercy series by Terri Rochenski. I had a confusing time with this review, at first, until Sandy found out this was to be continued in the next book.

The story is well written and intriguing. A historical romance with all the finery and dresses we love to hear about. Anne Tearle is a young orphaned farm girl, raised in her uncle’s house by a wicked evil aunt. Cinderella type story has her uncle (not evil like his wife) going to live with an estranged cousin in the guise of being a tutor for her cousins two boys. Upon arriving, she was treated as family instead and introduced into London society.

Our young heroine falls in love and gets married to a handsome wealthy young Scottish man, Gavin MacKay. All seemed perfect as he seemed to be in love and attentive to his new bride, lavishing her with clothes, gifts and an enormous house.

I’m purposefully leaving out the wonderful details, so you can enjoy them for yourself! As I said before, this is well written and interesting.

After a few years of trying to have children, Gavin’s big dream, there are miscarriages and one infant death after only 3 days. This takes its toll incredibly, as would be expected, at this point Gavin has reverted to his mistresses and is a drunken despot (I’m greatly distressed, because I thought him wonderful and reformed by Anne’s love). Anne finds him in bed with another woman and leaves him, really unusual for the times. She proceeds to file for divorce, completely unheard of in the times. She is thwarted by gossip started by him calling her a liar, witch, and so much more. Whereupon, she escapes London to her friends in America, where her maid and friend marries and leaves her alone but with friends. She finds herself pregnant from a bruising rape her husband performed before she found him abed with the other woman.

The book ends on a cliffhanger with her vowing to keep the child from Gavin, if it, indeed, lives.

I’m so glad to know it will continue and Anne will find love again. I spent a couple of days in a horrible humor wondering how to write this, not knowing about book two! I’m a HEA or at least a HFN kind of gal and really looking forward to a better solution for dear Anne!

This is an excellent and complicated story, and I for one will be waiting for the next installment with baited breath! The characters in this are well done, the situations realistic…I’m just so glad it didn’t end here!

Reviewed by Georgianna

Copy provided by author

Share

The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride by Cathy MacRae-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Posted on by
79

The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride by Cathy MacRae-Review, Interview and Giveaway

The Highlander's Reluctant Bride banner

The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride
by Cathy MacRae
Release Date:
Genre: Highlander, historical, romance

The Highlander's Reluctant Bride

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/

THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE (Highlander’s Bride #2) by Cathy MacRae

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 15, 2014

Determined to keep the Macrory clan holdings out of the clutches of the Lord of the Isles and marauding pirates, King Robert II sends his man, Lord Ranald Scott, to hold Scaurness Castle. There, Laird Macrory lies dying, awaiting word from his son who is missing on the battlefields of France. If the son is not found before the old laird dies, Ranald will take over as laird–and marry Laird Macrory’s headstrong daughter.

Lady Caitriona sees no reason she cannot rule the clan in her brother’s stead, and is bitterly disappointed with the king’s decision to send a man to oversee the castle and its people. Not only is Ranald Scott only distantly related to the Macrory clan, but he was her childhood nemesis. She has little trust or like for him.

Her disappointment turns to panic when the king’s plan is completely revealed and she realizes she must wed Ranald. Pirates, treachery, and a 4-year-old girl stand between her and Ranald’s chance at happiness. What will it take for them to learn to trust each other and find the love they both deserve?

••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE is the second instalment in Cathy MacRae’s Highlander historical romance series. This is Lord Ranald Scott and Lady Riona Macrory’s story. Following the death of Laird Macrory, King Robert sends Ranald to Scaurness Castle to secure and assume the position of Laird. To establish ownership, Ranald is ordered to marry Lady Macrory and is not surprised when she denies any claim of marriage. The two have a prior history that goes back a number of years.

The premise focuses on the building relationship between Ranald and Riona as well as defending the castle from would be claimants-a one time friend of the former Laird: and the head of the Laird’s guards. When treachery and treason is suspected Ranald must ensure his position of authority or lose control of the castle and the men.

The relationship between Ranald and Riona began as children but neither had seen one another in years. Their attraction to one another is immediate although both deny feelings or their emotions. But Riona hides a secret that she believes will push Ranald away and in doing so will discover that her past has come back to claim what he believes belongs to him. When Riona chooses her past over her present Ranald knows that the future he promised was never going to happen.

The world building continues with the inclusion of Laird Eaden Scott (Ranald’s brother) from the first storyline. With the backdrop of Scottish castles and the salt water ocean you can feel the moisture and dew on the misty shores. The secondary characters include family, friends and enemies all carefully placed who reveal bits and pieces about the history of the family and the guards.

Cathy MacRae pulls the reader into a romantic storyline of struggle, betrayal, heartbreak and love. The Highlander storylines are always a favorite genre for many romance readers and THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE is the perfect romance read for love in the afternoon.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview orange:black

TRC: Hi Cathy and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the recent release of THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE.

Cathy: Thank you so much! It’s great to be here today. The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride is just shy of its two month birthday.

Cathy MacRaeTRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Cathy: Twitter / Goodreads Website / Facebook

Cathy: Well, like other writers, I love to read and cannot remember a time when I didn’t have a book in my hand- two or three in my desk at school as a kid, books in my car (before ereaders) for downtime while kids were at one practice or another. When I decided to start writing Scottish historical romance, a fellow writer challenged me to enter a writing competition, and the genre has stuck with me. I love it! And, really, it’s not hard to appreciate men in kilts. **J I was fortunate enough to take a trip to Scotland two years ago and will definitely go again!

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Cathy: My local writing group was my first support group. **J My current critique group is awesome and of course, there are numerous authors in my genre whose stories I love.

TRC: THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE is the March 2014 and second release in your historical Highlander Brides series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Cathy: It is a stand alone book, but if you read the first one, you would recognize the hero in this book, Ranald, as the brother of the hero in The Highlander’s Accidental Bride.The Highlander's Reluctant Bride

In The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride, King Robert II has received an urgent request from Laird Macrory to send someone to help hold Scaurness Castle, a strategic site overlooking the Firth of Clyde. Both the Lord of the Isles and marauding pirates would love to claim it for their own.*

The king sends Ranald and sets three mandates. First, secure the castle in the name of the king. Second, take over as laird if the old laird dies before his son can be found and returned from France’s battlefields. The third mandate hinges on the second. To strengthen his claim on the Macrory clan (he is distantly related), he must marry the old laird’s headstrong daughter. Unfortunately, Ranald remembers her as an annoying child he didn’t like very much. Their story revolves around their early dislike of each other as well as a few unexpected obstacles they must overcome in order for them to learn to trust and then love one another.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series? Can each of the books be read as a stand alone?

Cathy: I currently have two more in queue for the series, with a couple more possible. Each will be a stand alone, but of course it is fun to recognize characters as they weave in and out of each other’s stories.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (research, historical, logistics,background) did you encounter writing this particular story and series?

Cathy: The logistics of the time period are always challenging. There is the basic clan feuding to build around, but I want to include some of the issues of the time. Who was king? What were his policies? Did he support the highland clans or intrigue to keep them fighting each other? What were other notable wars/treaties/upheavals going on at this time?

TRC: Do you believe that fictional historical storylines should adhere to the ‘real history’ of the time period in the book(s)?

Cathy: To a degree, yes. I’d be happy reading something that was not historically accurate as long as the author was clear about it from the beginning.

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an installment with a major cliff hanger?

Cathy: I like my cliff hangers inside the book. **J There is a lot to be said about enticing readers to eagerly anticipate the next installment, but I don’t know if I’d write that way or not. I’m happier with an emotionally satisfying ending.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Cathy: One of my favorite things about writing is I’m never quite sure how the story will progress. The characters definitely direct the story for me.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Cathy: I think a good writer must engage the reader’s empathy for the hero and heroine and keep them true to their character. If a writer changes the heroor heroine’s reaction to a situation (except for an expected character change as the story progresses), the story will lose its believability. Characters with real, understandable flaws are wonderful. I think books are better with a hero and heroine who are just as fallible in the book as people would be in real life. I want to believe, no matter what happens in a person’s life, there can be a HEA.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Cathy: Usually, when writer’s block is staring me in the face, I have written a character into an unbelievable situation. It might take some rereading of the story up to that point to see where it went wrong. Occasionally I just jump to another chapter and keep writing. I can usually backtrack and fix the ‘dead spot’ later.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Cathy: My DH loves to hear my plots and is great at helping me find information. He usually does the first edits on my chapters. I often bounce ideas with my critique group, too. They are a HUGE help!

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Cathy: In The Highlander’s Reluctant Bride, a 4-year-old named Gilda is introduced. My next book is her story- twelve years later, of course. It is called The Highlander’s Tempestuous Bride.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Cathy: I am entering the arena of self-publication and career as a full-time author. I’m not sure I have time for anything else, lol! But if I do, I would love to take another trip to Scotland.

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Cathy: A few people know I worked as a tour guide at George Dickel Distillery for about a year recently. I absolutely loved the job! I met people from all over the world and learned a lot of amazing things, both about whisky and life in general.I suppose if I hadn’t moved, I’d still be there.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Cathy: Writing is such fun for me. I love interacting with readers, too. Readers can find me at my Website on Facebook or my author page at Cathy MacRae Author.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food- shrimp

Favorite Dessert- anything chocolate or ice cream (preferably Ben & Jerry’s
cookie dough)

Favorite TV Show- NCIS

Last Movie You Saw– Robin Hood with Russell Crowe

Favorite Musical Group- The John Scofield Trio (funky jazz)

Dark or Milk Chocolate- Milk chocolate

Secret Celebrity Crush- George Clooney

Last Vacation Destination- Eureka Springs, AK

Pet Peeve- poor grammar

TRC: Thank you Cathy for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of THE HIGHLANDER’S RELUCTANT BRIDE. We
wish you all the best.

Cathy: Thank you for having me here today! I’m so glad to get a chance to chat with you!

Giveaway Black and Orange

Cathy is offering the following prize package at The Reading Cafe.

-one commenter will receive the coconut soap and bookmark
-one commenter will receive a signed copy of THE HIGHLANDER’S ACCIDENTAL BRIDE
Cathy MacRae prize

1. Please register using the log-in at the top of the page.

2. If you are using a social log-in such as Twitter or Facebook, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

 4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. LIKE Cathy MacRae on Facebook for an additional entry.

6. Giveaway open to USA only

7. Giveaway runs from May 16 to May 21, 2014

Share

One Scandalous Season Series 1 & 2 by Lily Dalton-a review

Posted on by
8

One Scandalous Season Series by Lily Dalton-a review

One Scandalous Season

4 out of 5 for this reader folks!

I love it when I discover a new author in a fave genre. The One Scandalous Season series by Lily Dalton had a great balance of all the elements I love in historical romance. We have some tradition, rakes, scandalous ladies, angst, sass, stubbornness, wealth, poverty, misunderstandings, action, a sense of friends and family and a secondary cast that make sure you have a chuckle here and there. Tie all these together and you get “Never Desire a Duke” and “Never Entice and Earl”.

_____________________

Never Desire A DukeBOOK 1 – Never Desire a Duke

DESCRIPTION-Release Date September 2013

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

A secret from his past holds the key to their future…

A Marriage Beyond Hope

Lady Sophia has long been estranged from her husband, Lord Vane Barwick, the Marquess of Claxton, whose rumored list of amorous conquests includes almost every beautiful woman of the ton. Yet a shocking encounter with him in a crowded ballroom—and a single touch—are all it takes to reawaken her furious passion for him. But how can she trust the man who crushed her dreams and took away the one thing she wanted most?

A Love Beyond Reason

Lord Claxton has never forgiven himself for the youthful mistake that ruined his marriage to Lady Sophia. Now, after nearly a year abroad, the reformed rogue vows to win back the only woman he’s ever truly loved. He’ll do whatever it takes to prove he can be the honorable husband she deserves—and the passionate lover she desires. As the snowdrifts deepen outside their ancestral home, can they rekindle the flame that burned so bright and find a new path to forever?

REVIEW

OH MY! I listened to this book, and I have to say the narrator really nailed this performance. My heart pounded in my chest, leaving me a ball of emotion. She had the voices down perfectly, her pace and tones complimentary to the story!

Lady Sophia has just been living her life day by day. Married to Lord Claxton, yet estranged, she is shocked when one day out of the blue Claxton decides to pop back in her life with the desire to make their marriage work. Sophia however, so scarred from a past full of misunderstandings with Claxton, not to mention a huge loss that has left her heart broken, isn’t interested in what Claxton has to say.

After being stranded together in one of the ancestral homes due to a severe snow storm, Sophia proposes they separate but produce a child so that Claxton has an heir. Once their child is born, no more contact. Claxton is beside himself and decides to dig deep to woe his wife back. With the help of sweet little town and the amazing people that live there, Sophia and Claxton begin to face their past and decide on whether they will face the future together or apart.

Of course, there are always a few nasties waiting to strike …… LOL!

___________________________

Never Entice an EarlBOOK 2 – Never Entice an Earl

DESCRIPTION-Release Date April 29, 2014

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

For fans of New York Times bestsellers Elizabeth Boyle, Jillian Hunter, Sabrina Jeffries, and Nicole Jordan…

A ONE SCANDALOUS SEASON NOVEL

A Deception Most Reckless

Lady Daphne Bevington would do anything for her maid Kate-including masquerading as Kate and sneaking around the wrong side of London to settle the poor girl’s debt. Yet her innocent ruse takes a scandalous turn when “Kate” runs into a handsome gentleman on a secret quest of his own. A moment of passion could cost Daphne her reputation, but how can she ignore the stranger’s searing kiss?

An Arrangement Most Wicked

Lord Cormack Northmore is determined to find the immoral peer who ruined his sister. So when he learns that the irresistible woman he knows as “Kate” is the Season’s most sought-after debutante, Cormack plans to use her connections to help him set a trap. Now, the closer Cormack gets to uncovering the villain who haunts the ton’s ballrooms, the more he realizes that the lovely lady is in danger herself. Will he abandon his quest for revenge-or risk losing his one chance at love?
(85,000 words)

REVIEW

I really enjoyed this book. it was slow to start but once it got going .. BAM! Lady Daphne is Lady Sophia’s sister. She is sweet and kind, a realist in many ways, about to experience her first season and the most coveted of the ton. She does not like the idea of marriage and vows to never marry. She is fiercely protective especially to her lady’s maid Kate who has found herself in a world of trouble. Deciding to disguise herself as Kate, Daphne plunges into the dangerous side of London to take care of Kate’s debt.

Lord Cormack is on a mission. He must find a certain villain that has done his family wrong, and serve a good dose of vengeance. When he rescues and shares a moment of passion with a beautiful woman on the wrong side of town, he is gob smacked when that same woman appears in the ballroom and apparently is a member of a wealthy family. Deciding that this information can aid his own cause, Cormack blackmails Daphne into helping him. Cormack suddenly realizes that the table are turning when the level of passion and perhaps love escalates, and he gets more than he bargains for.

These two books are very different but have similar elements. Book one is more heart wrenching and angst filled, while Book 2 is more action packed. Both tell a great story of love, and the couples really are complimentary to one another. I am really looking forward to the third book anticipating the ride I’ll be taken on next. If you love historical romance, this is a great series to add to your list!

HAPPY READING!

Copies supplied by Netgalley

Reviews by Rachel T.

 

Share

Miss Molly Robbins Designs a Seduction by Jayne Fresina-a review

Posted on by
15

Miss Molly Robbins Designs a Seduction by Jayne Fresina-a review

Miss Molly Robbins

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 4, 2014

Carver Danforthe, Earl of Everscham, has a reputation for being a wild rogue—not for indulging the ambitions of his sister’s maid.

But Molly Robbins’ unique dress designs have caught the eye of society’s elite, and if it means her own dress shop, Molly will make a deal with the devil himself—or his proxy, the notoriously naughty earl.

But becoming his mistress is not a part of their arrangement. It’s right there in the contract’s small print: No Tomfoolery. Until he proposes a scandalous new addendum to their contract…

REVIEW

4 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Miss Molly Robbins Designs a Seduction by Jayne Fresina is the fourth book of her Sydney Dovedale series. I was eager for this story as there were a few teasers in previous books and the pairing of our hero and heroine was a little unusual. Well I am happy to say that Jayne Fresina delivered.

We met Carver Danforthe, Earl of Everscham in previous novels. He is the older brother if Mercy Danforthe (she was the heroine of the previous novel), a notorious rake who recently was appointed his title and quite frankly does not care for the responsibility that comes with it. He does however enjoy the perks …. money, woman and living his life as he pleases.

Miss Molly Robbins was a lady’s maid to his sister Mercy. She is a dull creature, dressed in drab and from a small town called Sydney Dovedale. When Carver had to retrieve his young sister after she ran away many years ago, she only came back on the condition that Molly join her. Right from the start Molly stirred something in Carver .. annoyance yet curiosity. As time passes Carver has gotten use to this maturing woman living in his home and when it is time for her to leave to marry, he is surprised about his negative reaction.

Mercy rescues Molly from her marriage and insists she returns to London from Sydney Dovedale to pursue a career as a shop owner and seamstress. When Molly confronts Carver about his offer to set her up financially, little does she know she is opening a romantic can of worms that would be considered quite improper for an Earl and a country lady. As Molly is no longer a servant, she begins to let her hair down and speak her mind, much to the surprise (be it both pleasant and unpleasant) of Carver. Where did this woman come from .. has she always been in there, and why is he feeling the need to sweep her up and call her his?

I adore this series. It isn’t fast paced by any means, but the relationships between our characters are certainly complex yet complimentary in their own way. I loved reading about Carver being put in his place and called out on his rakish ways. I also enjoyed reading about Carver teaching Molly how to have some fun in life! These two offered many chuckles and ultimately a true romantic story! A sigh worthy historical romance for sure!

Click HERE for Rachel’s reviews of books 1-3 in Jayne Fresina’s Sydney Dovedale historical romance series.

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Share

The Seduction of Miss Amelia Bell by Paula Quinn-a review

Posted on by
10

The Seduction of Miss Amelia Bell by Paula Quinn-a review

The Seduction of MissAmelia Bell

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 25, 2014

“Scottish romance at its very best! Deliciously romantic and sensual, Paula Quinn captures the heart of the Highlands in a tender, passionate romance that you won’t be able to put down.”
–Monica McCarty, New York Times bestselling author on Seduced by a Highlander

A HIGHLAND ROGUE

Edmund MacGregor will do anything to save Scotland from English rule-even kidnap Lady Amelia Bell for ransom. As the daughter of a duke and the chancellor’s betrothed, she’s the perfect pawn in this game. But from the moment he first lays eyes on his spirited captive, he can’t resist stealing a kiss . . .

AN ADVENTUROUS LADY

Lady Amelia’s duty is to marry well, but that hasn’t stopped her from fantasizing about true love. So when a sexy Scot appears in her home, she’s beguiled. When he kidnaps her, she’s furious. Yet as Edmund introduces her to a world of passion beyond her wildest dreams, can she leave her family behind for this handsome Highlander? And will Edmund risk the only true home he’s ever known to capture the heart of this lovely lass?

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Man that was one amazing highland read! Everything that I treasure in a historical/medieval/highland romance novel was present. You will find friendly banter among the warriors (speaks volumes of the kinship they feel towards on another), a feisty and easy to love heroine and her down to earth sidekick, one HOT leader who is captivated by this feisty heroine but has to stick to a code or sorts as opposed to falling in love with her, action packed battle, dreadful antagonists and a setting so beautifully described you are left with a stunning image in your mind. PERFECT MIX! 🙂

The Seduction of Miss Amelia Bell by Paula Quinn is the first book of her new The MacGregors: Highland Heirs series. I have not read anything previous of Paula Quinn’s but I will say that I am bumping up her series on my TBR list. This series is a spin off of her previous series that feature the children of previous couples. I an excited to go back and read all about how they came to exist!

Edmund MacGregor is the epitome of a highland warrior. He is brave, strong, handsome, feared, deceptive as required, patriotic, and will do anything and everything he can to prevent a treaty from being signed allowing England to official own Scotland … even kidnap the daughter of a duke and the betrothed to a Chancellor who will be in attendance to this signing. Hoping to use this woman to force his enemies hands, it is quite ironic that it turns out it is his hand that is forced …. in love.

Amelia is a sweet beauty who lives her life loyal to her family. Haunted by “bad luck” she is somewhat looked as an disaster in the making but absolutely treasured by her father. When she is told to marry for the benefit of her country, she is prepared to do her duty. When she meets a visitor and experiences a stolen heart stopping embrace with him, her whole world is about to be turned upside down. Especially when her visitor kidnaps her and shows his true intent.

Throughout this novel we experience a wonderful story of how these two fight, embrace, admire, regard, love, and understand each other. You can see where the conflict of “how can we be together” arises and how they get to a point where they know they want to overcome it. Supported by cast of secondary characters that add their own spice to this story, these two go on a remarkable journey together.

If you love a good highlander novel, you have to check this book out! I was absolutely satisfied by the time the last page was read! LOL

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Share

Secrets of Seduction/Lover Be Mine (Legendary Lovers Series 2 & 3) by Nicole Jordan-a review

Posted on by
18

SECRETS OF SEDUCTION/ LOVER BE MINE (Legendary Lovers Series 2 & 3) by Nicole Jordan-a review

Legendary Lovers series

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Secrets of SeductionSECRETS OF SEDUCTION (Legendary Lovers #3) by Nicole Jordan

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 29, 2014

The most charming Wilde cousin, Lady Skye has secretly loved the enigmatic Earl of Hawkhurst since girlhood, long before the tragedy that left him scarred both physically and emotionally. When Skye learns that the celebrated hero has returned to England from his self-imposed exile to make a cold marriage of convenience, she brazenly plants herself on his castle doorstep, determined to convince Hawk that she alone is his true mate and destiny.

An elite member of the Guardians of the Sword, Hawk has vowed never again to risk the pain of loving—but that’s before he deals with the most enchanting, annoyingly persistent seductress he’s ever encountered. One night of blazing passion leaves him impossibly torn. Will Hawk choose duty over love, or will he open his heart and let Skye’s healing light penetrate his darkness?

REVIEW: SECRETS OF SEDUCTION is the third instalment in Nicole Jordan’s Legendary Lovers historical romance series focusing on the five Wilde orphaned cousins-Ashton, Jack, Skye, Kate and Quinn. The cousins have been raised by their bachelor ‘uncle Cornelius’ and Skye is determined to find the missing piece in Cornelius’s life-a love that he lost so many years ago. Each book can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty.

Each storyline is loosely based on a popular fairy tale or Shakespearean play. This is twenty three year old Lady Skye Wilde and the Earl of Hawkhurst ‘Hawk’’s storyline-a Beauty and the Beast tale of lost love, forgiveness and letting go.

The focus of the storyline is on matchmaker and youngest Wilde-Lady Skye Wilde. Along with her cousin Kate, Skye has the uncanny ability to find love matches for each of her family members only this time she is determined to find the perfect match-for herself. Having set eyes on the Earl of Hawkhurst ten years earlier, Skye has dreamt of the day she could call him her own. But Hawk is several years older, a widower who lost his wife and child to a devastating fire, and a man who cannot forgive himself for their death. It is the fire that has left Hawk scarred-both inside and out-leaving a ‘beast of a man’ both in the physical and emotional sense. Skye will enter Hawk’s life under the ruse of asking for his assistance in finding a long, lost ‘friend’.

The premise follows Skye as she sets into motion her plans to seduce the man she has admired for over ten years. His life revolves around a ‘secret society’ of friends and Skye hopes to use these friends to assist in looking for her bachelor Uncle Cornelius’s long lost love. And along the way Skye is determined to show Hawk what it is he has been missing.

The relationship between Skye and Hawk is one of immediate attraction but a reluctant attraction for the widower Hawk. Skye’s bubbly personality is too effervescent for Hawk and her playful attitude leaves something to be desired-especially for a man who prefers to grieve in solitude with only a bottle of brandy for company. It is only with Skye’s determination that Hawk will begin to live again but at a cost that will break Skye’s heart when Hawk looks to someone else for the future.

Nicole Jordan writes a wondrous storyline of romance and love; a second chance for a man whose guilt eats away at his heart and his soul; and a breathtaking story of reuniting two lovers who have been separated by distance and time. Most of the secondary characters are new introductions to the series that add an air of mystery, suspense and danger. The world building continues from the previous storylines with the inclusion of some of the previous storyline characters.

Told from third person point of view SECRETS OF SEDUCTION has a little bit of everything: humor, love, romance, betrayal, intrigue, suspense and heartbreak. Skye is a woman who puts her heart on the line and tells it like it is-she would fit perfectly into the twenty first century with her take charge attitude. She knows she may be fighting a losing battle but in the end it is the heart that knows where it truly belongs.

Reading Order
Prince Charming
Lover Be Mine
Secrets of Seduction

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

_________________________________

Lover Be MineLOVER BE MINE (Legendary Lovers #2) by Nicole Jordan

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 2013

As the wickedly seductive Wilde cousins seek true love by taking a page from history’s legendary love stories, Lord Jack Wilde plays a determined Romeo courting an enchanting Juliet.

The last thing Sophie Fortin expects at a masquerade ball is a dazzling kiss from a pirate. Her desire quickly falters when she learns that her masked gentleman is devilishly scandalous Lord Jack, a member of the captivating Wilde clan — and a man she’s forbidden to acknowledge. But when Jack begins a breathtaking seduction, Sophie can barely resist.

Jack never imagined that the daughter of his family’s mortal enemy would awaken such fierce passion within him—until one unforgettable kiss changes his mind forever. Soon, Jack is hell-bent on winning Sophie’s hand, going so far as to abduct her to save her from marrying a rival nobleman. Determined to woo Sophie and her unyielding parents, Jack is faced with the one decision he’d sworn never to make. The secret heir to a prince, Jack has spurned his royal heritage for years . . . but for Sophie he’ll risk all to turn a legacy of heartbreak into love ever after.

REVIEW: LOVER BE MINE is the second instalment in Nicole Jordan’s Legendary Lovers historical romance series. This is Lord Jack Wilde and Sophie Fortin’s story-a tale not unsimilar to Romeo and Juliet where a decades old feud has left two families bitter and Sophie’s family without a title or a royal name. Nicole Jordan weaves a fractured Shakespearean tale where our couple will fall in love much to the disdain of Sophie’s family when an arranged marriage has already been in the works that will insure Sophie’s family a title and connection to a royal seat. Each book can be read as a stand alone without too much difficulty.

The focus of the series is on the five Wilde cousins who, through young Kate and Skyler Wilde, have made it their job to ensure each of the cousins finds love. With reference to fairy tales and Shakespeare’s plays, the youngest Wilde’s set into motion a plan that will see their cousin Jack fall in love with Miss Sophie Fortin-but not before a battle of wills forces Jack and Sophie to reconsider what it is, that they want. With the Fortin family pride on the line, Sophie refuses to acknowledge her love for Jack in the hopes that her father will be accepted back into royal society.

The attraction between Jack and Sophie is immediate. They are drawn to one another but Sophie has been betrothed to another man. Jack’s only hope to win Sophie’s hand is to accept his family heritage as the rightful heir to a principality but in doing so he must accept that the man he has hated since a young child is the father who abandoned his mother and his self almost twenty five years earlier.

Sophie is a strong willed woman-when she wants to be- but has a very difficult time saying no to her father. Her mother’s ‘depression’ and her father’s loss of prestige is used constantly as a form of blackmail to ensure Sophie’s compliance and in this she is a character whose personality flickered between weak willed and combative. Her feelings waffled constantly, and at times, was an irritant to both Jack and the reader, as well.

The passionate storyline follows Jack and Sophie as they dance around one another and the private and public morals of the day. The sexual tension is palpable; Jack’s need for Sophie is demanding and true. Theirs is a sensual affair that will pit two families against one another should the truth be revealed about their already burgeoning romance. Emotions run deep when a man refuses to acknowledge his birthright but must do so to win the hand of the only woman he has ever loved.

Nicole Jordan pulls the reader into a seductive storyline where one couple will unite two families torn apart by a blood feud that tells a different tale then history remembers. LOVER BE MINE is an engaging tale where Romeo fell in love with his Juliet but no one was harmed in the end.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

About The Author Black and White

Follow: Goodreads / Website /Facebook/

Nicole JordanNew York Times bestselling author Nicole Jordan spins delightful tales that simmer with passion and sensuality. In her former life, Nicole grew up as an Army brat, moving frequently and attending high school in Germany. She later earned a civil engineering degree from Georgia Tech and spent eight years as a manufacturing manager making disposable diapers and toilet tissue! Currently Nicole lives in the Rocky Mountains of Utah with her real-life hero (her husband) and beloved kids (her horses).

With over two-dozen historical romances to her credit and four million books in print, set in numerous eras and locales, Nicole now enjoys chronicling the sparks that fly when Regency lovers play the matrimonial mating game.

One of her novels had the dubious honor of being humorously spotlighted by Jay Leno on “The Tonight Show.” On a more serious note, Nicole’s romances regularly appear on numerous bestseller lists, including The New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today, and have earned such honors as RITA finalist, RWA’s Favorite Book of the Year, the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Historical Romance, and the Dorothy Parker Award of Excellence, presented by a group of over one hundred romance reviewers.

Share

The Disgraced Lords Series Vol.1-2 by Bronwen Evans-a review

Posted on by
13

The Disgraced Lords Series Vol 1-2 by Bronwen Evans-a review

The Disgraced Lords

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

OH ME OH MY! I never thought I’d find a series that could be similar and/or match the Lonely Lords series I love so much … well I have to say I have found another series that so far is just as good and satisfying! *HAPPY DANCE*

The Disgraced Lords by Bronwen Evans is a new historical romance series that centres around a group of Lords called “The Libertine Scholars”. These Lords all met and formed this group when they attended school. They are known rakes, handsome, rich, smart and extremely loyal to each other. When they realize that someone from their past is beginning to set each of them up for ruin and then attempting to take their lives, they band together like no other time and try to put their heads together to solve this mystery. It just so happens that in the midst of all of this, they are meeting their perfect lady and struggling with a change of lifestyle that is going to claim them no matter how hard they fight it!

Let’s meet the first two shall we?

______________________________________

A Kiss of Lies
The Disgraced Lords #1
by Bronwen Evans
Genre: Historical, romance
Release Date: January 14, 2014

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

A Kiss of LiesDESCRIPTION

In Bronwen Evans’s Loveswept debut, a pair of damaged souls ignite each other’s deepest passions—even as they tempt fate by deceiving the world.

Desperate to escape her abusive past, Sarah Cooper disguises herself as a governess in the employ of Christian Trent, Earl of Markham, the man who, long ago, she fantasized about marrying. Despite the battle scars that mar his face, Sarah finds being near Christian rekindles her infatuation. A governess, however, has no business in the arms of an earl, and as she accompanies Christian on his voyage home, Sarah must resist her intense desires—or risk revealing her dangerous secrets.

One of the renowned Libertine Scholars, Christian Trent once enjoyed the company of any woman he chose. But that was before the horrors of Waterloo, his wrongful conviction of a hideous crime, and his forcible removal from England. Far from home and the resources he once had, Christian believes the life he knew—and any chance of happiness—is over . . . until his ward’s governess sparks his heart back to life, and makes him remember the man he used to be. Now Christian is determined to return to England, regain his honor, and win the heart of the woman he has come to love.

REVIEW

You have to love a series that starts off with the tortured soul character. LOL

Christian Trent is the Earl of Markham and suffers from a horrific event in his past. Left badly scarred physically and mentally, he lives his life attached to the alcohol bottle and paying for woman’s services. He craves a gentle touch, a kind word that is genuine and comes from the heart. When Christian is forced to flee England after being accused of a crime he ends up in Canada. Suddenly finding himself the ward of a young girl, Christian decides to hire Sarah Cooper as a governess.

Sarah Cooper is also on the run and is hiding her real identity. When she becomes the governess of Christian’s ward, she also becomes the one woman that sees beyond his scars. Christian will have her …. as his wife despite her status. Truths are bound to surface though, leaving these two with many questions for the other. In the midst of their own personal drama, both have a dangerous past that returns and threatens to tear them apart forever.

__________________________

A Promise of More
The Disgraced Lords #2
by Bronwen Evans
Genre: Historical, romance
Release Date: April 15, 2014

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

A Promise of MoreDESCRIPTION

When Beatrice Hennessey sets out to confront Lord Coldhurst, the notorious rogue who killed her brother in a duel, her intent is to save her family from destitution. She’s determined to blackmail the man into a loveless marriage. She’ll make the wealthy Lord Coldhurst pay for the rest of his life. But while greeting his ship, Beatrice takes a tumble into the Thames—only to be fished out by a pair of strong masculine arms that tempt her to stay locked in their heated embrace forever. That is, until she realizes those arms belong to Sebastian Hawkestone, Lord Coldhurst himself.

The little drowned mermaid has an interesting proposition indeed; one that Sebastian is surprised to find quite agreeable. Although he’s had women more beautiful, she is pleasing to the eye, and besides, it’s time he fathered an heir. Beatrice promises to be the ideal wife; a woman who hates him with an all-consuming passion is far too sensible to expect romance. However, it isn’t long before Sebastian’s plan for a marriage of convenience unravels, and he’s caught up in the exhilarating undertow of seduction.

REVIEW

Oh I want a Sebastian wrapped up and placed under my tree this Christmas .. he is YUMMY! 🙂

Sebastian Hawkestone, Lord Coldhurst is a hardcore womaniser, hottest man of this group and HE KNOWS IT! Love will never capture him, marriage is a far away chore that he will one day have to do so he can have an heir. He loves the ladies and the ladies love him. When he is challenged to a duel something goes terribly wrong. Another disgraced Lord forced to flee, he returns to England only to find himself saving the life of a woman that he would never believe to be waiting at the dock for his arrival.

Beatrice Hennessey is the sister of the man that Sebastian killed. Her family is in dire straits and knowing that if anything, Sebastian has a strong sense of family, she guilts him into marrying her. Sebastian thinks he has to provide an heir anyway and at least he will never fear falling in love with her. Problem solved .. well not quite! Sebastian is captivated by his innocent bride who responds so wickedly to his touch and before he knows it, they are falling in love. When dangers knocks on the door however, suddenly Sebastian realizes he not only has much to gain, but much to LOSE!

I really enjoy Bronwen Evans writing style. There is an engaging natural flow and we are teased with the promise of more mystery and storyline. She writes delectable love scenes that make me melt and sigh. Her characters are strong, damaged in their own way and perfectly imperfect. If you love the historical romance genre, then do yourself a favour and check out this series. I can’t wait for the next book! 🙂

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copies supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Share