Tag Archives: Historical

The Duke’s Stolen Bride by Sophie Jordan-Review Tour

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The Duke’s Stolen Bride by Sophie Jordan-Review Tour

 

THE DUKE’S STOLEN BRIDE
The Rogue Files #5
by Sophie Jordan
Release Date: October 22, 2019
Genre: adult, historical romance

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 22, 2019

An urgent dilemma…

To save her impoverished family, Marian Langley will become a mistress. But she will not be just any mistress. Marian intends to become so skilled, so coveted, that she can set her own terms, retaining control over her body and her fate. Only one problem remains: finding a tutor…

A scandalous solution…

Other men deprive themselves of pleasure for propriety’s sake. Nathaniel, Duke of Warrington, would much rather be depraved. He slakes his desires with professionals who ask nothing of him but his coin. Marian’s proposal—that he train her without taking her virtue—is an intriguing diversion, until their lessons in seduction spin out of control.

And a most unlikely duchess…

When Marian is blackmailed into engagement by a man she despises, Nate impulsively steals her away. Though he never intended to take a wife, he can’t tolerate the idea of Marian forfeiting her freedom to another. But can he bear to give her what she demands—a real marriage?

•••••

REVIEW: The Duke’s Stolen Bride is a historical romantic fiction by Sophie Jordan. It’s set in a small shire in England, Brambledon, the date isn’t clear. I was at first concerned, but as I read, I became thoroughly intrigued and delighted by the whole circumstance of the plot.

Marian Langley is the daughter of a dedicated and loved doctor. She was a governess for aristocratic families and has lived well. Until her father passed away. She had to return home to care for her siblings, Charlotte, Elanor (Nora), and a brother. They are penniless and getting into debt just trying to live. Marian is hounded by creditors and is being propositioned by Mr. Lawrence, the blacksmith. She doesn’t want to marry and lose her freedom, and the blacksmith is not a nice man.

Nate is the Duke of Warrington. His home in this small community is Haverston Hall. It holds a few happy memories for him. His was not a happy childhood. He was small as a boy and bullied at school. He only got to come home on a few occasions. His father died when he was a baby and his mother remarried, a man of lower station who didn’t like the boy much. His mother and stepfather visit rarely, and he doesn’t care. His wife, Mary Beth, died in childbirth only three years after they were married. He thought she cared for him, but they weren’t really in love. He now hires paramours to come visit occasionally and he pays them generously but forms no attachments.

They meet when Marian is being chased by the coal seller. She runs into Crawley’s tavern, and hides under a corner table where a man is sitting. She askes him not to talk to her or let anyone know she’s there. The coal merchant follows her in and questions the man at the table, who answers his question with another question. Finally, Mr. Crawley chases the coal merchant off and tells him to leave “His Grace” alone. She comes out from under the table and they spar with words a bit.

Later, when the blacksmith brings a ham to her house, he lets her know she must marry him to save her sisters and brother. He will provide them with money for a dowry and money for an education for her brother, but only if she marries him.

And the fun begins… Marian learns that a “widow” living nearby was, in reality, a courtesan. She saved enough of her own money to maintain her lifestyle and keep her freedom. She decides this would be the answer for her and her siblings. Mrs. Ramsey tells her she needs a tutor to show her the things men like and teach her to be good at it. Guess who comes to mind?

Yes, it’s truly an interesting plot twist. Her proposal to him, the actual reason he decides to do this are great. The lessons, the shocking way he makes her feel. The things she does to him…all so very entertaining. There is so much more to this lovely story. However, you should read it yourself. It’s a fun read, it has a little danger, nothing comes without a price. Kudos to author Sophie Jordan, this is a great read.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna

 

SOPHIE JORDAN grew up in the Texas hill country where she wove fantasies of dragons, warriors, and princesses. A former high school English teacher, she’s the New York Times, USA Today and international bestselling author of more than twenty novels. She now lives in Houston with her family. When she’s not writing, she spends her time overloading on caffeine (lattes preferred), talking plotlines with anyone who will listen (including her kids), and cramming her DVR with anything that has a happily ever after. 

AUTHOR LINKS

Website http://www.sophiejordan.net/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sophiejordanauthor/
Twitter https://www.twitter.com/SoVerySophie
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sosophiejordan/
Goodreads https://goo.gl/jbJNT9
Amazon http://amzn.to/2BLceES 

 

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour operator.

GIVEAWAY TERMS & CONDITIONS:  Open to US shipping addresses only. One winner will receive a paperback copy This Scot of Mine by Sophie Jordan. This giveaway is administered by Pure Textuality PR on behalf of Avon Books.  Giveaway ends 11/4/2019 @ 11:59pm EST. 

 

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Once Upon A Christmas Past Anthology with Regan Walker et al -a review

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Once Upon A Christmas Past Anthology with Regan Walker, Paula Quinn, Catherine Kean & Brenda Jernigan -a review

ebook ONLY 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

Christmas in Scotland or Christmas in England – it is the best time of the year.

NY Times & USA Today & Bestselling Authors present Once Upon a Christmas Past – 4 full books of Christmas and Love

A Secret Scottish Christmas by Regan Walker

Spies, Scots, and Shipmasters celebrate a very secret Christmas in Scotland as identical twins, Robbie and Nash Powell, spies for the Crown, compete for the love of the daughter of an Aberdeen shipbuilder.

A Highlander for Christmas by Paula Quinn

As the bard of the MacGregor clan, Finlay Grant is a natural-born charmer. He can easily win the heart of any lass . . . but somehow, the right words to express his love for stunning Leslie Harrison have eluded him. Yet as Christmastide approaches, Finn knows he must find a way to propose to the raven-haired beauty who has stolen his heart.

A Knight’s Redemption by Catherine Kean

Six Christmases ago, after refusing his kiss, Lady Mary Westbrook was locked in the dungeon by Lord Holden Kendall, a squire at Branton Keep. When an attempted child abduction days before Christmas brings Holden back to the castle, Mary must confront again what happened between them.

Holden is a grown warrior now, and he resolves to not only make matters right with Mary but finally win her kiss. Yet, as peril ensues, Mary must risk far more than a chance at true love.

Christmas in Camelot by Brenda Jernigan

Sir Nicholas the Dragon’s orders are clear. He is to fend off the enemy besieging Noelle’s castle and bring the lady safely back to Camelot for her wedding day to Sir Gavin. But spending time with the proud beauty awakens an irresistible hunger in Nicholas. Now, as desire does battle with duty, Nicholas has only two choices — to surrender the woman he loves to another man or fight to the end to make her his own.

••••••••••

REVIEWS:

NOTE: Vickie’s review covers A SECRET SCOTTISH CHRISTMAS by Regan Walker, and A KNIGHT’S REDEMPTION by Catherine Kean.

A SECRET SCOTTISH CHRISTMAS by Regan Walker

A Secret Scottish Christmas begins with a group of people traveling from England to Scotland to celebrate Christmastide, albeit a secret celebration, with friends. Once the group arrives in Scotland, it doesn’t take long for the Powell twins, Nash and Robbie, to notice not only Aileen’s beauty, but also her fiery spirit.

As the story progresses, the twins put their secret plan into motion, in hopes of making their mission a successful one. However, as the twins get to know Ailie, it becomes apparent that one is more enamored than the other when said twin starts questioning their mission altogether.

A Secret Scottish Christmas is a great addition to the Agents of the Crown series. Ailie is a wonderfully written character. She is intelligent and feisty, but also has a loving heart for those she holds dear. The Powell twins were wonderfully written as well. I love the fact that they love each other as you would expect, but what drew me in was their sense of independence. Regan Walker did a phenomenal job of making each one of them their own person with their own identities. I also loved that Ailie picked up on their nuances that were written so brilliantly. Walker has also, once again, woven actual historical events into her story seamlessly and built a world that you can vividly see in your mind. Whether it is the sound of a dog barking, feeling the wind in your face as you sail away or seeing a landscape covered in new snow, you will find yourself noticing all of the details she meticulously sets for us to truly feel as if we are a part of.

Reading Regan Walker’s books is, at least for me, like watching a movie. You are swept into her world from the very beginning and you truly do hate for it to end. Added to all of this the fact that we get to see so many couples from previous books throughout the entire story makes it one of my favorites of everything she has written. If you’re a fan of historical romance, you will most definitely love A Secret Scottish Christmas. There is a beautifully developed romance, political intrigue and such well developed characters that you’ll swear this is your favorite as well….until the next one. Well done, Regan Walker! Very, very well done!

__________

A Knight’s Redemption by Catherine Kean

A Knight’s Redemption begins at Branton Keep, where Lord de Lanceau and his wife have their annual Christmas celebration. Lord de Lanceau also announces whom this year’s Lord of Misrule will be. It’s an annual ritual that all look forward to, because whomever is chosen enjoys the privileges of being Lord until midnight. As the squires talk about whom they think will be chosen this year, Holden Kendall can’t help but notice the comely Lady Mary Westbrook, who is in attendance with her father. As Holden eyes Mary, she can’t help but be drawn to him as well. However, her father has other plans.

As the anticipation builds, Lord de Lanceau rises and announces this year’s Lord of Misrule is none other than Holden Kendall. As Holden ‘assumes’ the dais, he has one thing on his mind: he wants to kiss Mary. When he delivers his directive, she steadfastly refuses. Holden is shocked, and embarrassed, and tells her that if she refuses, she will be taken to the dungeon. To his even further shock, she still refuses and he has no other option than to see her taken to the dungeon. In the middle of all of this, he and the others are called out to battle a fire in town.

When he returns, he realizes that he has forgotten that Mary was still in the dungeon. He goes to free her and to apologize, but to say she’s livid would be an understatement. THIS is not how Holden had thought his quest for a simple kiss would turn out……………

Six years later, Mary is back at Branton Keep for the holidays. Thankfully, Holden no longer resides at the Keep. As she and Claire decide to go to town, they hear a baby crying and go to investigate. They see that two men are fighting and Mary reaches down to rescue the crying baby. She and Claire try to sneak away, only to be caught by one of the men, who demands the baby back. Mary thinks the man looks familiar, but is thankful when he loses consciousness.

Back at the Keep, Holden comes to and is questioned by those in authority there. When he explains that the baby is his nephew and someone was trying to kidnap the baby, they are wary, but agree to let them stay until Lord de Lanceau arrives and can vouch for who he says he is. However, once Mary goes to where Holden is being held, neither of them know the danger they will face, nor how much their running into each other after all of this time will change their lives forever.

A Knight’s Redemption is a wonderful written tale that draws you in from the very beginning. Even though it is a novella, the characters are masterfully written. Mary has struggled with her self-image due to her verbally abusive father and deems herself as not worthy of a male’s attention for most of her life. Her friend, Claire, does her best to dissuade her from believing so, but it is Holden who finally convinces her that she is worthy of so much more than just attention. The secondary characters in this book all have had their own books in the past, and even though I don’t feel like I missed anything due to not having read those, I do feel that the back stories would have enriched the story for me. With that said, I thoroughly enjoyed Holden and Mary’s tale so much, that I will go back and read the others’ stories. If you’re a fan of this genre, you’ll be a fan of this story for sure. Well done, Catherine Kean! Very well done!

Copy suppled for review

Reviewed by Vickie K

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The Highland Outlaw by Heather McCollum – a Review

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The Highland Outlaw by Heather McCollum – a Review

 

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Description:
Shaw Sinclair, chief of the outcast clan of Sinclairs of Caithness in northern Scotland, has made a deal with the devil. Despite his strength and lethal skills, he needs help—specifically from a woman—to accomplish his mission to bring a bairn to safety to the coast. When he meets the brave and beautiful Alana Campbell at a Samhain Festival, he decides she’s the one. Alana Campbell is ready to show the world she’s just as skillful with a sgian dubh as any man. Attracting the attention of the brawny chief who coerces her to join him on his journey to the coast of Scotland gives her that very opportunity. Sparks flash between them as they’re forced to act as husband and wife to accomplish the deadly mission. However, when secrets threaten to tear them apart, they have to decide if their differences outweigh the reality of their feelings…

“To Laird Shaw Sinclair, 7th Earl of Caithness The infant who journeys under the protection of this letter is of strong health yet might succumb to an assassin’s poison. Therefore, she must be taken to safety shielded by the fierce Sinclair clan. Take the child to the ruins of St. Andrews castle, where a ship will ferry her over to France to be raised in secret until such time as she can be claimed. In return for your service, Castle Girnigoe and the lands historically kept by the Sinclair Clan will be retaken from Edgar Campbell of Glenorchy to be returned to Clan Sinclair. The child must arrive, alive, to the ship before the winter snows blanket the Highlands. May God in his ultimate wisdom and power guide you and see that you protect this very important child.”

 

Each book in The Campbells series is STANDALONE:
* The Scottish Rogue
* The Savage Highlander
* The Wicked Viscount
* The Highland Outlaw

 

 

Review:

The Highland Outlaw by Heather McCollum is the 4th book in her Campbells series.  It starts out with the premise of a small child being taken to safety. The missive charges Shaw Sinclair the job of delivering the baby girl.  Shaw is Laird of the Sinclair Clan and whilst promising to deliver a baby to safety, the wet nurse (a woman employed to breastfeed another woman’s child) he employs dies on the journey, spotting his chance he uses every trick in the book to persuade Alana to join him…… 

Alana is sick of being under appreciated, No one takes her seriously!! And finding out her mother is alive (in previous books it was thought she had died) spurs Alana on to find and rescue her. Her help comes in the form of charming if not slightly rude Shaw Sinclair. 

Their journey is fraught with danger, people are after the child, and will stop at nothing to achieve it. 

But lies have a habit of surfacing, Campbell’s and Sinclair’s are sworn enemies, but as the journey progresses, it’s getting harder and harder to remain enemies, and pretending to be husband and wife is blurring the lines. 

Double dealings, treachery, betrayal and lots of action keep this book going at a great pace. 

So why does Shaw have to deliver this baby? And to whom? Is she special in anyway? What happens if the baby doesn’t get delivered? And will Alana find her mother? And these secrets that Shaw and Alana have, will it really spell the end of this Laird and his feisty lass? 

Another good book by Heather McColllum in The Campbell series. We’ve met a few of the characters in this book in previous stories, so it was nice to add a little more background to it all. 

Reviewed by Julie B

Copy provided by Publisher

 

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Bishop Takes Knight by McKenna Dean-Review & Giveaway tour

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Bishop Takes Knight (Redclaw Origins #1) by McKenna Dean-Review tour

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Goodreads

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 18, 2019

New York, 1955. Former socialite Henrietta (“Rhett”) Bishop, destitute after her father gambles away the family fortune, takes a job at Redclaw Security. But Redclaw is no ordinary operation. Part detective firm and part enforcement agency, Redclaw regulates matters involving the growing population of shifters who have emerged since the onset of the nuclear age.

Peter Knight is a nuclear scientist shattered by the death of his wife. Blacklisted by the government and scientific organizations, he drowns his sorrows while searching for the people behind his wife’s murder.

When Rhett is assigned to recruit Knight, their meeting is more than either bargained for—a rival organization will do anything to secure Knight for themselves. Following a lead to locate a missing cache of alien technology stolen from Redclaw, Rhett is thrown back into her previous glittering life with Knight as her pretend boyfriend. But when someone from the past turns up to start a bidding war on the artifacts, Bishop and Knight wind up in a fight for their very lives.

•••••••••

REVIEW: This book is before the first book ( The Panther’s Lost Princess ….Redclaw Security book 1) It tells of how the Rhett finds out that it’s more than “just” a detective/security firm.

Rhett has been a social outcast and has been ever since her father lost the family fortune, (well he didn’t really lose it, he was laundering money, and when found out, he committed suicide) and other jobs haven’t lasted long, so she needs this and will type all day long if she has to.

Rhett (or Henrietta) comes to terms with the fact there are things out there that the “humans” don’t need to know about. (After seeing a few odd things, and then rescuing her co-worker from a “snarling and hairy man” her boss Ryker tests her and declares her a success!! And so Rhett becomes an agent.

So Rhett’s first assignment is to find (and possibly recruit) the nuclear scientist, Peter Knight. Redclaw has worked out that the nuclear age is triggering dormant genes in humans (causing mutations, werewolves, and artifacts to act strange.)

Peter wants nothing more than to find his wife’s killer. But he can’t get any answers he’s been blacklisted and thrown out of the organisations he worked for. Peter feels like he had nothing more to give, nothing to lose, he’s given up. His only comfort is the bottle of alcohol.

The plot moves at a steady pace, Rhett and Knight both have an agenda, both don’t want to fall for one another. But as a rival organisation try to obtain (by fair or foul means) Knight, each will see the other in a different light. It’s a slow blooming romance, but with a strong storyline, you don’t always need endless amounts of sex.

It was good to find out more of the origins of Redclaw. And how it started from it’s humble beginnings. If knight and bishop are in the next book, then count me in.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B ?

McKenna Dean has been an actress, a vet tech, a singer, a teacher, a biologist, and a dog trainer. She’s worked in a genetics lab, at the stockyard, behind the scenes as a props manager, and at a pizza parlor slinging dough. Finally she realized all these jobs were just a preparation for what she really wanted to be: a writer.

She lives on a small farm in North Carolina with her family, as well as the assorted dogs, cats, and various livestock.

She likes putting her characters in hot water to see how strong they are. Like tea bags, only sexier.

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$20 Amazon, ebook of reader’s choice from backlist

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Earl of Kent by Lauren Smith – a Review

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Earl of Kent by Lauren Smith – a Review

 

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Description:
Christmas has never been more wicked…

HE’S BATTERED AND BROKEN…
Targeted by the enemies of a friend, roguish Phillip Wilkes, the Earl of Kent, is nearly killed in a violent attack. Beaten and left for dead, he is rescued and nursed back to health by a beautiful angel that he’s convinced exists only in his dreams. When he recovers and learns his heart was burning for none other than the sister of his closest friend, he knows she is forbidden to him. He runs away from the only woman who has ever shown him true kindness because who could ever learn to love a broken man?

SHE BELIEVES IN THE HEALING POWER OF LOVE…
Ella Humphrey is cursed when it comes to love. Two overprotective brothers and the entire League of Rogues, are determined to protect her at all costs, even from falling in love. She feels trapped. When a man at death’s door is delivered to her care, she recognizes him as the friend of one of her brothers, and more importantly as the man she secretly loved for years. As her affection deepens for the wounded earl, she envisions a happy future with him. Yet the moment Phillip can walk again, he leaves Ella and breaks her heart.

CAN MISTLETOE WORK MISCHIEF AND MIRACLES?
A year later, Ella fears she’ll never find a way back into Phillip’s guarded heart. He becomes a recluse, too afraid to show the world how broken he is. Ella manages to convince Phillip to escort her to a country estate for a Christmas party. Snowed in at a small village inn, Ella finally has a chance to seduce the earl and remind him that broken bodies and broken hearts can be healed.

 

Review:

Earl of Kent begins with a prologue set in London, December 1816. This is the story of Ella Humphrey (sister to Charles Humphrey, Earl of Lonsdale and Graham Humphrey. Her mother is the Dowager Countess of Lonsdale) and Philip Wilkes, Earl of Kent.

Philip and Ella first meet when she’s fifteen years old and he’s twenty-three. He’s just lost his mother and father to typhus and inherited his father’s title at a young age. She’s very taken with him, even though he’s her brother Charles’ age. She tries to get him to kiss her but being a gentleman, he only presents her with a gentle kiss on her forehead. Embarrassed, she leaves the room, her heart broken but unable to forget him.

If you’ve read this series, many of the characters are familiar. Incidents coincide with the other novels as well. The novels, including this one, are well written with characters that are broken in different ways. The path to love isn’t smooth and makes for a well told intricate and thrilling tale. I don’t do spoilers, so I can only tell you that I thoroughly enjoyed this novel as well as the others in Lauren Smith’s wonderful series.

Reviewed by Georgianna

Copy supplied for review.

 

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Highland Obligation by Lori Ann Bailey – a Review

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Highland Obligation by Lori Ann Bailey – a Review

 

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Description:
Isobel MacLean fears she can’t protect those she loves. Due to a violent attack in her past, she’ll do anything to keep them safe–except marry the infuriating Grant MacDonald, heir to the MacDonald laird. She wants justice for her family, not a damn husband. Unfortunately, we don’t always get what we want…

Forced to wed the lass responsible for his friend’s death, Grant MacDonald is determined to tame his hellion wife. On a mission to Edinburgh to prevent war, sparks fly as they spar with each other, and Grant is starting to wonder if maybe his wife is a wee bit misunderstood.

He’ll need to use every tool in his arsenal to distract his alluring wife from her quest for vengeance…before it’s too late for them both.

Each book in the Highland Pride series is STANDALONE:
* Highland Deception
* Highland Redemption
* Highland Temptation
* Highland Salvation
* Highland Obligation

 

Review:

I read the synopsis for Highland Obligation and agreed to do a review, but truth be told, I was committed for the Highlands alone.  The setting and Scots burr are enough for this reader!  Lori Ann Bailey was just the icing on the cake. 😉  Having read the previous book from the wonderful Highland Pride series, I knew its conclusion would end triumphantly.  You will not be disappointed!

Grant is furious with Isobel, his new wife.  Not only was he forced to marry her she wasn’t in love with the idea, either, buddy, but his friend is dead because of her intrusion (an accusation he’s yet to discuss with the poor lass).  Compound the death of his first wife, though that’s hardly Isobel’s fault, Isobel is a wanted woman for her illicit activities — there’s literally a bounty on her head for battlefield exploits!  The final blow?  His heart won’t stop pounding every time he’s near her!  It truly is a heady obligation in the Highland:  How can Grant not fall in love? 🙂

Tensions are understandably high, but the more Grant and Isobel interact, the more their inner thoughts betray indifference towards each other.  Grant is rankled by Isobel’s notoriety, her prowess coveted among Scottish Royalists, but Grant wants Isobel to leave her past behind; to let him take care of her…as is his duty.  Ouch.  You can imagine how well that was received, but it’s that crackling energy that kept me interested in their dynamic.  How do two alphas attain balance?

“He tossed all night, one minute wanting Isobel, the next wanting to heave her into the sea.  How was he to survive this marriage with his sanity intact?”

But just when things were beginning to align on a personal level, none more surprised than Isobel and Grant, opportunistic, vengeful sources seek out the newlyweds, and there’s only so much evasion before confrontation is inevitable.  Does “Till death do us part” include vanquishing your partner’s enemies?  How much time to decide before it’s considered uncouth?  A test of loyalty to be sure!

Isobel and Grant are protecting each other in such a surreptitious, indirect way, the other is feeling neglected, adopting a might-as-well-fend-for-myself mentality.  If only these two realized it’s not stubbornness or spite — love is stronger than pride.  They just can’t admit it!  Hope they’re not too late to put it all out there.

We are treated to quite a pair in Highland Obligation.  Grant and Isobel’s tumultuous journey is fraught with insecurity and longing and we get to explore both perspectives.  When two people are obviously meant for each other, I can’t imagine having it any other way.  Congratulations, Ms. Bailey!

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Publisher

 

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A Lady Never Tells by Lynn Winchester – a Review

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A Lady Never Tells by Lynn Winchester – a Review

 

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Description:
Richard Downing may be a viscount of impeccable character, but he’s bored beyond belief of dancing at balls, faking smiles, and making dull conversation. So when he stumbles upon a house maid with defiance in her striking blue eyes and a dagger hidden in her skirts…well, color him intrigued.

Raised with a rather…peculiar upbringing, Lady Victoria Daring is full of secrets and surprises. As part of His Majesty’s personal homeland spy network and as a master of disguises, Vic is charged with infiltrating high society to uncover the enemies hiding in plain sight.

But Richard is the first man to see through her disguises–and infiltrate deep into her heart. Too bad his family is at the top of her list of suspects…

 

 

Review:

A Lady Never Tells by Lynn Winchester is a Regency Historical Romance standalone.  A female Victorian spy (that’s a new one on me) thinking it might be part of a new series.

Victoria works with her family, but it’s not a normal family business…. Victoria is a spy!! She works infiltrating London’s society scene (finding out who are traitors to the crown) she a fighter and a good one, she’s also a master of disguise (going undercover is part of the job) her siblings have done their jobs, it’s now her turn……

Richard is bored….. bored with his endless existence. Bored with the same faces, going to the same homes, dancing with the same people. So when he comes across a young maid (he literally bumps into her) he’s curious, and later he sees her again, she has a dagger. Well that has him very intrigued. Who is she? And what is she up to?

Meeting Richard is not on Victoria‘s agenda, she’s here to gather information and he’s getting in the way!! And more importantly he’s on the family’s list of people to spy on!!!

Will Richard find out about the double life Victoria leads? And what will he think when he finds out she’s investigating his family?

The differences in Victoria and Richard’s family life is very different. Victoria came from a large family with lots of love and laughter. Her father brought his daughters up to think for themselves and to have an opinion. Richard had only his brother, his family life sounds very cold and lonely. So meeting Victoria was probably like a breath of fresh air, she isn’t like the rest of the London society, she has a mind of her own, and isn’t afraid to speak out, and to see a woman fight was a novel experience for him too.

I liked the characters very much, and hope to read more of Victoria’s siblings. The writing felt a little stilted at times, and it could have had a little more action, but other than that a nice afternoon read.

Reviewed by Julie B

Copy provided by Publisher

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What a Scot Wants by Amalie Howard & Angie Morgan – a Review

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What a Scot Wants by Amalie Howard & Angie Morgan – a Review

 

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Description:
Highlander Ronan Maclaren must marry, but he’s in no particular hurry. He’s perfectly happy as the laird of his clan, running the Maclaren Whisky Distillery, and besides, he just hasn’t found the right woman.

Lady Imogen Kinley has cleverly avoided wedlock for years. Men, she has learned from painful experience, are not to be trusted. Determined to remain independent, she takes an indecent amount of pleasure in making herself as unattractive to potential suitors as possible.

When desperate measures are taken by their parents and a betrothal contract is signed, it’s loathing at first sight. They each vow to make the other cry off—by any means necessary. But what starts out as a battle of wits…quickly dissolves into a battle of wills.

 

 

Review:

What a Scot Wants begins with Ronan Maclaren discovering that his parents had entered into a betrothal contract for him a while back.  He knows he has to marry, but having had his heart broken years before, that’s the last thing on his mind.  He is perfectly happy with his life…for now.

Imogen Kinley, too, has avoided marriage for years and is also happy with the life she leads.  She is a champion for women who find themselves tossed aside (both by others and society) and in need of help.  She vows to never have a man dictate to her what she can and cannot do, which leaves her astounded when she learns that her family had also entered into a betrothal contract, for which she is adamant will never happen.

When Ronan and Imogen discover what they will lose if either breaks the betrothal contract, each devises their own plan to try and force the other to break it.   However, when secrets are revealed and they find themselves truly attracted to each other, Ronan and Imogen try to do everything in their power to keep the other safe as danger comes knocking.

What a Scot Wants is a nicely written story.  Imogen is stubborn and self-sufficient, as is Ronan.  They will both leave you laughing with their schemes trying to run the other off with their wild outfits and other antics.  When you discover why Imogen is such a staunch supporter of the women discarded by society, your heart breaks for her.  Ronan has a bit of a back story as well, but nothing as traumatic as Imogen.  The magic happens when they finally admit their building feelings for each other and lines are drawn in the sand to keep the other safe.  Their chemistry is palpable, but it’s their loyalty to each other draws you in.  If I had one negative thing to say, it would be that their antics drug on for a bit too long.  With that said, What a Scot Wants is ultimately a story of redemption that will keep you turning the pages until the very end.  If you like your historical romances with a little humor, a little intrigue and a lot of chemistry, you’ll not go wrong with this one.  Well done, Amalie Howard and Angie Morgan!

Reviewed by Vickie

Copy provided by publisher

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