The Importance of Being Scandalous by Kimberly Bell – a Review

Posted on July 28, 2017 by Barb

The Importance of Being Scandalous by Kimberly Bell – a Review

The Importance of Being Scandalous Amazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
A horse race in trousers on Rotten Row. Visiting a gaming hall in a dress that would make her mother faint. Sneaking an invitation to a masquerade ball attended by only the wickedest, most debauched members of society…

None of these things are scaring off bookish but strong-willed Amelia Bishop’s stuffy, egotistical fiancé.

The only thing left is to entice childhood friend Nicholas Wakefield into a truly engagement-ending scandal. The Wakefields are the height of propriety, and Nicholas’s parents have made it clear a wife from the neighboring Bishop family would be unacceptable…

But Nicholas would give up his family and his fortune if Amelia would ever see him as more than just a childhood friend. He’ll go along with her scheme, even if it means ruining them both, because he’s got a plan that will change her mind about him being merely the boy next door.

Review:

I quite enjoyed The Importance of Being Scandalous by Kimberly Bell. Ms. Bell set the stage for the adventures of Amelia and Nicholas from the very beginning and these two characters just ran away with the story. Amelia and Nicholas were also well matched with the secondary characters of Amelia’s sister Julia and Nicholas’ friend Jasper. These two characters were a hoot to have around, and there was never a dull moment when they were in scenes with the other characters. Let’s just say everyone needs a Julia and Jasper in their lives. I really enjoyed how they supported the main couple, but at the same time provided backstory and furthering of the plot line for Amelia and Nicholas. The Importance of Being Scandalous was fast paced, cheeky and fun. I couldn’t help but LoL many times at Amelia and her sister as they plotted ways to get Amelia out of her engagement to that horrid excuse for a man Embry. Him I did not like from the first scene he was in. He’s just one of those males that I find sketchy and give me the creeps. Personally I couldn’t wait for him to either call off the engagement, or mysteriously disappear suddenly.

The romance between Amelia and Nicholas is sweet and seductive, yet set up nicely with no rush or preamble. She lets the characters explore these underlying feelings they’ve always had for each other, and come to the realization that they’ve been in love from their first meeting as teenagers. When Amelia finally realizes she’s been in love with Nicholas since forever it’s like she’s been kicked in the head from her horse. I was waiting anxiously for this revelation to dawn on her and if it wasn’t for her sister Julia, who knows if she ever would’ve come to this conclusion on her own. Well maybe by the time she was in her senior years, lol!! Nicholas and Amelia are well suited and this allowed for the romance to blossom, the chemistry and anticipation to build to a boiling point for when the two finally do submit to temptation. Even then, that dolt Embry won’t call off the engagement. He’ll go to any lengths to keep Amelia, even plotting with Amelia’s mother to ferret her away to another country where he can marry her at sea and force her to be his. The ensuing scenes with Amelia, Julia, Nicholas, Jasper and his twin sister are fast paced and comical as they race against time to get away from Embry so Amelia and Nicholas can escape to Scotland to be secretly married.

As I said earlier, The Importance of Being Scandalous is fast paced, cheeky and fun. It’s full of LoL moments between the sisters, as well as best friends Nicholas and Jasper. The characters are lively, well developed and carry the story with ease, keeping the reader entertained from beginning to end. If historical romance, with a good dose of scandalous behaviour is your cup of tea, then look no further then Kimberly Bell’s The Importance of Being Scandalous.

Until next time, happy reading everyone!

Reviewed by Marcie

Copy provided by Publisher

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Her Wicked Longing by Lauren Smith – a Review

Posted on July 23, 2017 by Barb

Her Wicked Longing by Lauren Smith – a Review

Her Wicked Longing Amazon / B&N / Kobo

DESCRIPTION

Fans of Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton Series and Johanna Lindsey’s Malory series will delight in this swoonworthy adventurous romance series with roguish heroes and feisty, intelligent heroines!

Her Wicked Longing contains two new short teaser stories starring Audrey Sheridan and her maid Gillian Beaumont!

What trouble can a young lady with a talent for mischief and her maid get into in just one day?

His Wicked Maid-

Always prim and proper, lady’s maid Gillian Beaumont has never acted with wild abandon the way her young headstrong mistress does. But deep down she dreams of a life filled with love and a husband who will give her his whole heart even though she knows it’s impossible. With a list of chores from her mistress, Gillian is given the chance to live the life of a gentle lady, and she clings to it, knowing that soon it will be over. While wearing a dress meant for her lady, she catches the eye of a handsome earl and is swept away from her duties by his rakish good looks and charm. Heated looks in public and passionate kisses in a dark corner of a bookshop create a perfect day for Gillian to cling to when she returns to her real life…

Her Wicked Lessons-

Determined to learn the art of the spy trade, Miss Audrey Sheridan, finds a way to escape a dull afternoon tea by running off to the residence of an infamous French Courtesan. Hoping to improve her French for a future mission to the continent, she never expects to be caught by the one man who haunts her dreams: Jonathan St. Laurent, the former servant-turned-brother of a duke. With one penetrating look from those bewitching green eyes of his, Audrey knows she’s in trouble. Unable and unwilling to confess her real reason for visiting a French courtesan, Audrey decides to convinces Jonathan she’s there to learn the art of seduction. But she never expects the devilish rogue to take her lessons seriously…

*Note: These are short stories of under 10,000 words that will prepare readers for Gillian’s happily ever after in The Earl of Pembroke and Audrey’s happily ever after in His Wicked Secret.

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Her Wicked Longing by Lauren Smith is a quick read consisting of two novellas. Lauren writes a stellar historical romance in full length and I have to say she is amazing at packing in so much teasing story in so few pages. I was left eager for more and anticipating her future releases.

The first novella “His Wicked Maid” is a taste of Lauren’s new series being released next year and it centered around Miss Audrey’s ladies maid Gillian Beaumont. Gillian is afforded an opportunity to masquerade as a gentle lady for a day, and in that short time she catches the eye of James Fordyce. who happens to be an Earl. These two have an instant spark and Lauren left us with just enough to make sure we came back for the real deal. In typical style of her lovely writing, we have humour, promise of a little naughty, adventure and the making of a great story.

The second novella is “His Wicked Lessons” and this is a taste of her full novel “His Wicked Secret” (released later this year) which will be the next full novel in her “League of Rogues” series. Here we see the beginnings of Jonathan St-Laurent and Audrey Sheridan relationship. Audrey is a smart cookie and finds herself in a compromising position when she tries to take the bull by the horns and insert herself into some spy training. Deciding to do the best she can with the situation handed to her, she is still taken aback when the one man she has been drawn to catches her in a place no proper lady belongs. Again we are left with a taste of what these two will face in their full length novel and I am excited to see where we are taken.

If you are a Lauren Smith fan, then you will love this read. I love that she released a teaser to keep our interest peaked and as usual she always gives just enough. She is an incredible historical romance author and if you haven’t checked out her writing before I strongly recommend you do. Her “League of Rogues” series is a great place to start but if you try this read first, I promise she gives you her style in true Lauren fashion, so this would be a great way to see if her style is your style .. which I am sure it will be! 🙂

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel

Copy supplied for review

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The Duke Meets His Match by Tina Gabrielle – a Review

Posted on July 13, 2017 by Barb

The Duke Meets His Match by Tina Gabrielle – a Review

The Duke Meets His Match Amazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
The daughter of an infamous art forger, Chloe Somerton grew up poor. Desperate to aid her sisters, she’d picked a pocket…or two. Now circumstances have changed, and Chloe has a chance to marry a young, wealthy lord. Only his mentor—a dark, dangerous duke—stands in her way. The duke knows about her past, and she’ll do anything to keep him from telling.

The moment Michael Keswick, the Duke of Cameron, sees Chloe Somerton, he recognizes her as a fraud. The stunning beauty with sapphire eyes and golden hair now appears to be a proper lady, but he knows better. What begins as a battle of wills soon escalates into a fierce attraction. In Chloe, Michael finds peace from the memories of war, but he refuses to marry…and she won’t settle for anything less.

Review:

The Duke Meets His Match begins with Chloe attending a party with her sister, who is bound and determined to play matchmaker for Chloe. Of course, Chloe had rather make her own match, but appreciates her sister’s interest….most of the time. As Chloe sets her eyes on a handsome young Earl named Henry, she can’t help but notice Michael Keswick, the Duke of Cameron, who just happens to be Henry’s guardian. Michael and Henry’s father were in the war together, and only Michael made it home. Henry’s father took a bullet meant for Michael, which has caused Michael a great deal of guilt. Once home, he has made it his mission to teach the young Henry about managing his estate and his affairs.

Once Michael sees Chloe, he immediately recognizes her and knows that there is a shady past that Henry knows nothing about. He attempts to warn Chloe away from Henry, and call her bluff (if you will). What he does not expect is Chloe’s reaction. As their mutual attraction grows, the Duke knows that he has indeed, met his match….

The Duke Meets His Match is a wonderfully written story that has relatable characters. I love the Somertons, and Chloe is by far my favorite. Don’t get me wrong, I like the other two books and their heroines, but I LOVED Chloe. Determined to distance herself from her torturous past, she stands up for herself in a way that will endear herself to everyone who reads her story. Michael was a bit of a surprise for me. Yes, he started out as an antagonist whom I couldn’t see myself liking (at all!), only to turn out to be a multi-layered character that I fell in love with. His reasons for saying he would never marry are actually valid ones, but Chloe being Chloe, makes him see reason. She also makes him see that asking for help does not make you weak. The Duke Meets His Match is ultimately a story about pushing past preconceived notions to truly see a person for whom they really are. If you’re a fan of this genre, you will never go wrong with any of the Somertons’ stories, but this one will make you a true fan of the author. Well done, Tina Gabrielle! Very, very well done!

Reviewed by Vickie

Copy provided by Publisher

The Duke of Defiance (The Untouchables #5) by Darcy Burke-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Posted on July 7, 2017 by Sandy

The Duke of Defiance (The Untouchables #5) by Darcy Burke-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

THE DUKE OF DEFIANCE
The Untouchables #5
by Darcy Burke
Genre:adult, historical, romance
Release Date: June 27,2017

The Duke of Defiance

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 27, 2017

Difficult and defiant as a child, Bran Crowther, Earl of Knighton left England as a young man to pursue independence and adventure. He never expected to inherit the title and when duty calls him home, he still finds Society’s codes constricting and others’ expectations oppressive. Nevertheless, he needs a wife to be a mother to his young daughter, preferably a woman of intelligence and warmth who is, above all, immune to his idiosyncrasies—and to falling in love.

Widow Joanna Shaw isn’t interested in a second marriage, not after the loveless, passionless union she endured. She’d much rather dote on her young niece and nephew since they will likely be the only children in her life…until she meets a precocious girl, in desperate need of a mother. But her father, the so-called Duke of Defiance, is as peculiar as he is handsome, and Jo won’t take another risk with her heart. Their rules, however, are made to be broken, even when the consequences could destroy them both.

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

The Duke of Defiance by Darcy Burke is the 5th book of her “The Untouchables” Series. A historical romance set in England, this was an easy paced, loving and passionate read that left me satisfied from the start all the way to the end.

Bran Crowther is the “black sheep” of his family. Having left home with no real destination in mind, he finds his place in Barbados where he starts living the life he can be at ease in. He marries and has a beautiful daughter. But fate has never been kind to Bran and soon enough he is a single father to his little angel girl Evie, has to return to memories of a home and family that did nothing but berate him his whole life, AND to top it all off, he has now officially inherited the title of Earl which he never wanted. Resigned to a life of disappointment, he loathes the thought of attending any proper society functions and realizes he must find a mother for his Evie.

Joanne Shaw is a widow to a vile country vicar. Jo never had the chance to “come out” to society due to family scandal, so at a young age she found herself accepting a proposal from a man who is less than ideal. After being abused and widowed, Jo makes peace with the thought that she will never marry again (one crummy marriage was enough for her thank you very much) or have any children. Then she crosses Bran’s path.

Off we go on an adventure of two perfectly flawed (yet accepting of circumstance) characters finding their perfectly flawed HEA. Jo brings a sense of family to Bran and Evie, and Bran and Evie melt away Jo’s reservations of progressing forward to maybe some day be married and enjoy motherhood. Bran has some serious issues going on, and Joanne brings a calm to his life that he can’t help but love. Joanne has a broken spirit of sorts, and Bran slowly enables her to glue them back in place. Evie .. well Evie is just the glue that binds this whole story together.

I would definitely recommend reading the first four books as some characters return from the previous books in this series, BUT, you can absolutely read this book as a stand alone. The flow of story is fantastic, the characters felt believable and the loving was some good! LOL

Recommend this my to fellow historical romance lovers for those precious quiet summer moments.

Click HERE for Rachel’s review of book four-THE DUKE OF DESIRE

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Rachel T

excerpt

She sank into a curtsey. “Good morning, my lord. My sister wishes to convey her deepest apologies, but her son is ill, so she asked me to come in her stead.”
Bran registered the tidy upsweep of her dark brown hair and the green-brown of her earnest eyes as well as the simplicity of her modest slate-gray gown. She was rather monochromatic, except for that hint of green in her eyes, and the tiny gold flecks that danced near the pupil. He recalled that she was widowed, which perhaps explained her somewhat dour appearance. Or maybe it was just that he was used to warmth and vibrancy and colors that defied possibility in England. Barbados seemed like an imaginary world now.

“I see. Do you have children of your own?” he asked.

Pale swaths of pink highlighted her cheeks. It was the barest bit of color, but he caught it. How could he not against the dull palette she provided?

Dull?

No, that wasn’t an apt description. Her attire was dull, her hair a bit too severe, but she possessed an attractive, feminine form. Indeed, her breasts were perhaps spectacular. And she was pretty, with long, dark lashes framing her eyes and rose-colored lips that were just a bit too full. Not too full, he amended.

“I do not,” she said, drawing his attention back to his question about whether she had children.

“Then how can you be qualified to help me with this endeavor?”

“My sister sent a list of characteristics and requirements you should seek.” She straightened her shoulders and looked him in the eye. “She also sent me with her express confidence.”

He liked her fortitude. “Well then, I suppose you will suffice. Come along.”

Her nostrils flared slightly, and her eyes widened just the tiniest bit, the gold flecks seeming to brighten. As he turned to lead her to his office, he considered that he might have just offended her again. He had called her abilities into question, but why wouldn’t he?

He strode toward the back corner of the house, where his office was located. It was a large chamber with a wall of bookshelves and windows that looked out to the garden. He moved behind the desk and indicated for her to take a chair on the opposite side.

She slowly sat, her gaze wary and her mouth tight.

He frowned. “My apologies if I insulted you.”

“If you’d rather I didn’t stay, you have only to say so.” There was a steely set to her shoulders and a clipped edge to her tone as she spoke. “Nora wanted to help you, but I’ll understand if you decide I won’t suffice.”

He dropped into his chair. She had cheek to go with her fortitude. He liked that too. He’d been prepared to deal with milksops and featherbrains when he’d returned to England—people like his mother and brothers. Not that they really were milksops or featherbrains, but they liked to put on as if they were, thinking it was somehow attractive. He supposed it wasn’t fair to assume an entire population shared the same characteristics as his family.

“I’m afraid I must also apologize for the other day. I meant no offense. Sometimes… I speak without realizing how my words might sound.”

One of her dark, slender brows arched. “Forgive me for saying so, but I’ve found that’s a trait shared by most men.”

About the Author

Darcy Burke

Darcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of hot, action-packed historical and sexy, emotional contemporary romance. A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, and three Bengal cats. Visit Darcy online at www.darcyburke.com and sign up for her newsletter, follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/darcyburke, or like her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/DarcyBurkeFans.

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Scandalous Ever After by Theresa Romain – a Review

Posted on July 1, 2017 by Barb

Scandalous Ever After by Theresa Romain – a Review

Scandalous Ever After Amazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

Description:
After years apart, old friends Lady Kate Whelan and Evan Rhys reunite at a race. They’ve been masking their feelings for each other for years, but when Evan must protect Kate from her late husband’s secrets, he may not be able to resist her any longer.

After being widowed by a steeplechase accident in Ireland, Lady Kate Whelan abandons the turf. But once her mourning is complete, her late husband’s debts drive her to seek help in Newmarket amidst the whirl of a race meet. There she encounters antiquities expert Evan Rhys, her late husband’s roguish friend—whom she hasn’t seen since the day of his lordship’s mysterious death.

Now that fate has reunited them, Evan seizes the chance to win over the woman he’s always loved. But once back within the old stone walls of Whelan House, long-held secrets come to light that shake up everything Kate thought she knew about her marriage. Now she wonders who she can trust with her heart—and Evan must decide between love and a truth that will separate him from all his heart desires.

Review:

Scandalous Ever After is a historical romance love story with a bit of mystery included. It’s set in Cambridge, England in 1818.

Evan Rhys is lecturing on fake Roman antiquities being circulated for the purpose of smuggling, using slides from a magic lantern and painted shots of artifacts he’d collected. It’s at this lecture that Catherine Abigail Durham (Kate), Countess of Whelan speaks up and asks him why he doesn’t go to Ireland, when he claims the artifacts are from there.

Meticulously, the author, Theresa Romain, builds the back narrative of Evan’s friendship with the late Earl of Whelan, Conall Richie Durham. Friends from childhood in school, they were close and inseparable. Thirteen years prior, Con had brought home some brood mares and a wife. Evan’s world changed. She was bright, beautiful and everything he loved in life, but he was completely faithful in his friendship with her husband.

They spent much time together, the three of them. Evan’s own family being very judgmental and not at all happy. Evan was the second son. His family’s opinions of what he should be and do with his life ever critical. So, Evan spent most of his life living at Whelan with Con and Kate. Con became increasingly free spending and risking their estate, as well as many infidelities. He and Evan had argued over his lack of care for his family and Evan had left angry. Con was killed in a steeple race shortly after the argument. Instead of helping Kate, he never came back…hence her wondering what was keeping him from Ireland, at the lecture.

That’s the setup, I don’t do spoilers, or at least I try not to. This love story is built with frustrating slowness. The dialogue is quick and often witty, with a bit of spice. Kate and Evan are each healing from a bit of guilt and sorrow, but wanting to be together. A few obstacles are in the way, but none insurmountable except their own ideas and feelings. There are several secondary characters that are also well written and interesting.

Twists with the smuggling angle and the horse races are woven into this story, adding some interesting and dangerous scenes. The love scenes and near love scenes are sizzling but also frustrating as the characters come to terms with their lives.

Reviewed by Georgianna

Copy provided by Publisher

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The Highland Commander (Lords of the Highlands #2) by Amy Jarecki-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Posted on June 27, 2017 by Sandy

THE HIGHLAND COMMANDER (Lord of the Highlands #2) by Amy Jarecki-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

THE HIGHLAND COMMANDER
(Lords of the Highlands #2)
by Amy Jarecki
Release Date: June 27 ,2017
Genre: adult, historical, Highland,romance

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The Highland Commander

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes & Noble / Kobo/ Chapters Indigo /Books-A-Million/IndieBound /Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 27,2017

She cannot resist the man behind the mask…
As the illegitimate daughter of a Scottish earl, Lady Magdalen Keith is not one to partake in lavish balls or other frivolities. Yet at her father’s urging, she agrees to dance with the battle-weary officers at this year’s holiday masquerade. It’s practically her civic duty! But when one such officer-whose dashing good looks cannot be disguised by a mere mask-sweeps her off her feet and into his arms, the innocent lass can’t help herself. Her lips are his for the taking.But will he betray his country for a kiss?
Navy lieutenant Aiden Murray has spent too many months at sea to be immune to the charms of this lovely beauty. Even after he returns to his ship, she lives in his dreams. But when he discovers Maddie’s true identity-and learns that her father is accused of treason-will the brawny Scot risk his life to follow his heart?

Lords of the Highlands series: The Highland DukeThe Highland CommanderThe Highland Guardian

•••••••••••

REVIEW:

4.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

OH Amy I do love how you write an yummy Highland Romance! 🙂

The Highland Commander by Amy Jarecki is the second book of her “Lords of The Highlands” series. A historical romance that takes a fictional couple and weaves it into a very real part of history. I LOVE LOVE LOVE when an author knows their history and can make a story come alive by allowing the reader the “What If” aspect. My senses were alive with vivid descriptions of scenery and culture. A good ole highlander romance always puts a smile on my face and this book certainly did just that!

Lady Magdalen (Maddie) is introduced to us at a ball. We learn she is a bastard, but has taken her life in hand and decided to work in hospital aiding women who have been abused. Maddie is innocent, but realistic about her station in life. It would seem her step mother really has no wish to have her in the family so she is raised alongside a ladies maid. When her father is charged with treason, her step-mama sure finds use for her really quick .. go save daddy dearest! Off Maddie goes, not expecting all she comes to find.

Aiden is introduced to us at the same ball we meet Maddie. They share a moment but know their paths will never cross again. Aiden is the second son of an Earl and is serving in the Navy. Once time had past, Aiden can never really get this lady out of his mind and before we know it, their paths cross again. Then their lives become entwined and we are off to one heck of a story!

Ok, I have to swoon for a second here! Aiden! OH SWEET AIDEN. The man is a virgin, sweet without feeling like you are dunked in a tub of honey, heroic and the total opposite of a rake. How fricken refreshing. I love my rakes .. I love me a bad boy, but then Aiden comes and I am the girl blow away at this character who isn’t a pansy ass but all MAN! My heart ached for this man, as much as it ached for Maddie.

The one liners and jokes these two share had me laughing out loud. I loved how they figured “love” and “loving” out together. I loved that their relationship wasn’t clear cut, but they both really deserved to be with the other. Honestly when it comes to highlander historical romance, you tend to read big burly men with either the innocent lass or the spitfire .. and this felt a whole lot different to me! These two have quite a few obstacles to overcome for their HEA, but it’s a joy to go through it with them!

Sorry I don’t give away storyline (that is for your pleasure), but I do tell you that if you have any amount of history buff inside you, you will seriously appreciate Amy Jarecki’s writing. She is well researched. If I have to give a negative amongst all this praise, it was slow to start. Once it got going I was completely invested.

Absolutely could be a stand alone, but snag the first book too, it’s also very good!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel

Copy provided by Publisher

the Highland Commander Teaser

excerpt

As in the Highland custom, Aiden wore the plaid belted at his waist, the length pulled from the lower right opening of his doublet, around his back and pinned at his left shoulder with a silver brooch bearing the Atholl arms. The valet had put forth a good effort ensuring there was neither wrinkle nor hair out of place.
He regarded himself in the looking glass above the mantle in the drawing room, sliding one foot forward as he would do for a portrait. Not liking the image, he puffed out his chest and moved a hand to his lapel.
God’s bones, take me to sea where I can cast aside these frills.
Tuning his back to the looking glass, Aiden resorted to pacing and pulling out his pocket watch. The coach would arrive in five minutes, and Maddie hadn’t yet made an appearance.
At least a light glowed from beneath her door indicating she was within. It cast a hazy glow in the otherwise dark passageway. After pacing around the chamber half-dozen times, he again eyed his timepiece. Another minute had passed. Perhaps he should knock on the door—perhaps Maddie’s mantle clock had stopped and she was unaware of the time. Just as he started off, her door opened. A burst of light flooded the passageway, and with the tap of dainty footsteps, an angel emerged.
Aiden knew she’d purchased a new gown, but he hadn’t expected this. His mouth went dry and he suddenly needed to take in two stuttered breaths to steady the thumping of his heart.
Christ, men aren’t supposed to experience such heart hammering. Especially men bred for the sea. Damnation.
She smiled, and his goddamned knees wobbled. He should have taken a healthy tot whilst he was pacing in the drawing room.
Her golden gown rustled as she walked forward, with a matching fan in her hand. She moved the fan to her waist…just below her breasts. Creamy skin Aiden knew to be softer than spun silk swelled above a dangerously plunging neckline. His mouth went completely dry. If Maddie’s serving maid had been anywhere but behind her lady, Aiden would have taken the lassie into his arms, pushed through his bedchamber door and damned the recital.
“I hope I haven’t made us late.” Maddie batted her eyelashes as if she had no idea of the effect she had on his aching cods. “Miss Agnes spent ever so long curling my hair.”
Aiden’s tongue slipped over his bottom lip. “Your curls are exquisite. You are exquisite, m’lady.”
Agnes cleared her throat, coming up behind with a cloak over her arm. “You’d best say so, m’lord. It took the greater part of the afternoon to make those ringlets.”
Nay, there’d be no slipping into the bedchamber for a hasty sampling of those pearl-tipped bosoms.
Aiden glanced to his pocket watch—they still had a few minutes—and now that he knew Maddie was ready, there’d be no harm in making the coach wait for a minute or two. “Fine job, Miss Agnes,” he said with more sobriety than he felt. “I think you deserve a healthy tot of fine spirit for taking such fine care of her ladyship.”
“Have we time?” asked Maddie.
Aiden led them into the drawing room and gestured to the settee. “A stolen moment will not set us behind overmuch.”
Agnes gave a firm shake of her head. “You needn’t make a fuss for the likes of me.”
“It is no fuss. You take good care of your lady, and for that I want to thank you.” Aiden poured three tots of sherry and offered each of the ladies a glass. “Shall we drink to Miss Agnes?”
Blinking, the woman drew a hand over her mouth, dipping her head and smiling broadly. “Heavens.”
“Aye, we should.” Maddie patted her chambermaid’s knee and raised her glass. “To the woman who has seen me through one and twenty years of happiness. I have no idea what would have become of me if you hadn’t been by my side. Sometimes I’ve felt as if you’re the only person in all of Christendom who cares.”
Aiden’s gut twisted. He cared a great deal, but it was inconceivable that Maddie had been made to feel like an outcast from such a young age. He drank thoughtfully, watching the two women as they sipped. Even their mannerisms had become similar. “Miss Agnes, how long have you been serving Lady Magdalen?”
The woman’s eyes glistened with pride. “Since the day she was born. The moment I held her in my arms I knew my purpose.”
Aiden glanced to Maddie and knitted his brows. “Did your mother pass in childbirth?”
Shaking her head, the lass bit her bottom lip. “Nay. My mother knew I would have a better life if she gave me to my father. Only…” Maddie looked away, and took another sip.
“What?”
“The one caveat was that she could never set eyes on me again.”
Grumbling under her breath, Agnes guzzled the remainder of her sherry. “We shan’t discuss the countess any longer. It sets both of our hackles to standing on end.”
“Agreed.” Aiden set his glass on the mantel and offered Maddie his hand. “Shall we be off, m’lady? We do not want to miss the opening. I hear it will be most spectacular.”
Maddie tapped the chambermaid’s shoulder before they strolled toward the door. “I want you to take some time for yourself this night. Do something that will make you happy. You have nothing to worry about, my pet. I’ll be in Lord Aiden’s capable hands.”

About The Author Black and White

Amy Jarecki is a descendant of an ancient Lowland clan and adores Scotland. Though she now resides in southwest Utah, she received her MBA from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. Winning multiple writing awards, she found her niche in the genre of Scottish historical romance. Amy writes steamy edge-of-your-seat action adventures with rugged men and fascinating women who weave their paths through the brutal eras of centuries past.

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The Pleasures of Passion (Sinful Suitors #4) by Sabrina Jeffries-Review and Giveaway

Posted on June 18, 2017 by Sandy

THE PLEASURES OF PASSION (Sinful Suitors #4) by Sabrina Jeffries-Review and Giveaway

THE PLEASURES OF PASSION
Sinful Suitors #4
by Sabrina Jeffries
Genre: adult, historical, romance
Release Date: June 20,2017

The Pleasures of Passion

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 20, 2017

When Niall Lindsey, the Earl of Margrave, is forced to flee after killing a man in a duel, he expects his secret love, Brilliana Trevor, to go with him, or at the very least wait for him. To his shock, she does neither and sends him off with no promise for the future. Seven years and one pardon later, Niall returns to England disillusioned and cynical. And being blackmailed by the government into working with his former love to help catch a counterfeiter connected to her father doesn’t improve his mood any. But as his role as Brilliana’s fake fiancé brings his long-buried feelings to the surface once again, he wonders who is more dangerous—the counterfeiter or the woman rapidly stealing his heart.

Forced to marry another man after Niall was exiled, the now widowed Brilliana wants nothing to do with the reckless rogue who she believes abandoned her to a dreary, loveless life. So having to rely on him to save her father is the last thing she wants, much less trusts him with….But as their scheme strips away the lies and secrets of their shared past, can she let go of the old hurt and put her pride aside? Or will the pleasures of their renewed passion finally enable them both to rediscover love?

••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE PLEASURES OF PASSION is the fourth installment in Sabrina Jeffries’ adult SINFUL SUITORS historical romance series- a spin off from Jeffries’ ‘The Duke’s Men’ series. This is Niall Lindsey, the Earl of Margrave, and Brilliana ‘Bree’ Trevor’s story line. THE PLEASURES OF PASSION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Niall Lindsey is the brother of Clarissa Lindsey (The Study of Seduction #2) and cousin to Warren Corry (The Danger of Desire #3).

Told from dual third person perspectives (Niall and Brilliana) THE PLEASURES OF PASSION is a second chance/fake fiancé story line that follows several paths beginning seven years earlier when a then twenty three year old Niall Lindsey finds himself on the run after killing a man in a duel to the death. His then seventeen year old ‘secret’ girlfriend Brilliana ‘Bree’ Trevor refuses to go, and seven years will pass before the two meet again. Fast forward to present day wherein Niall is being blackmailed by a government official to uncover the truth about an influx of counterfeit money, and Brilliana is forced to go along for the ride. What ensues is the rekindling romance between Niall and Brilliana as they hunt for the people responsible while pretending to love one another for the sake of the investigation.

Brilliana and Niall were once in love but Niall’s quick exit out of the country found Brilliana lost when her father’s past came looking for revenge. Forced to marry someone she didn’t love, our heroine did what she had to do to protect her mother from certain harm. Niall’s exile to Spain came with a price-spy for the Crown that continued upon his return to home. Rekindling his relationship with Bree is a hard-fought battle as they both keep secret sins of the past. The distinct lack of communication, bitter memories, misinformation and presumptions, and broken promises does much to destroy their previous feelings for one another challenging the reader in more ways than one. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Edwin and Clarissa (book 2), Warren and Delia (book 3), Niall’s mother Lady Margrave , Lord Fulkham, Bree’s Aunt Agatha, her father Sir Oswald Payne, and his brother Toby . There is also an assortment of ladies and gentlemen, housekeepers and butlers etc. that come in and out of the story line.

The world building follows the hunt for a counterfeiter; someone who is discretely using family without their knowledge. The second chance romance struggles with a palpable sexual attraction that is unable to come to terms with secrets and lies from the past.

THE PLEASURES OF PASSION is an energetic story line about two people who are given a second chance at love. The premise is engaging and moving; the characters are passionate and determined; the romance is energetic and fated. THE PLEASURES OF PASSION is a pleasing and worthwhile addition to Sabrina Jeffries’ SINFUL SUITORS historical romance series.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Art of Sinning
The Heiress and the Hothead
The Study of Seduction
The Danger of Desire
The Pleasures of Passion

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Giveaway

The Reading Cafe and Sabrina Jeffires’ publisher are offering a finished copy of THE PLEASURES OF PASSION to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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9. Giveaway runs from June 18-22 2017

The Misfortune of Lady Lucianna by Christina McKnight-Review, Book tour & Giveaway

Posted on June 17, 2017 by Sandy

The Misfortune of Lady Lucianna by Christina McKnight-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

THE MISFORTUNE OF LADY LUCIANA
The Undaunted Debutantes #2
by Christina McKnight
Release Date: June 13, 2017
Genre: adult, historical, romance

The Misfortune of Lady Luciana

Amazon | Amazon. ca | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks

Quick-witted hellion Lucianna Constantine has no doubt who was responsible for the death of her dear friend. And she will stop at nothing to expose his transgressions—and those of every despicable man in London. Lucianna has witnessed the cruelty of London’s beau monde her entire life…starting with her own father. So she is more than willing to singlehandedly take down every vile man that crosses her path.

Roderick Crofton, the Duke of Montrose, had his entire family fortune stolen when his father trusted the wrong men. After a scandalous article surfaces in the London Daily Gazette, written by the notorious Mayfair Confidential columnist, Roderick finds himself financially destitute, without a betrothed, and lacking the means to find the lords responsible for duping his sire. With little option left, Roderick has only one choice: find another wealthy heiress to wed. His quest brings him to Lady Lucianna Constantine, and soon, he can’t deny that he wants her for more than just her dowry.

However, Luci has secrets that could change everything. And when Roderick uncovers what those confidences entail, it could mean misfortune for all involved.

•••••••••••

REVIEW:

4.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

The Misfortune of Lady Lucianna by Christina McKnight is the second book of her “The Undaunted Debutantes” series. If you recall. I had reviewed the first book just a couple of weeks ago. I would recommend you absolutely read the first book before you dive into this one as they are both related and revolve around the same crime.

Picking right up where the first book left us, Lady Lucianna is one of the four girls who had formed a lifelong friendship. When one of the girls is found dead on her wedding night the other three girls go into detective mode to make sure justice is served. Lucianna is the spitfire of the group and I was really looking forward to reading her story. She believes what she believes and no one can make her change her mind. While attempting to solve this mystery, Lucianna is also a contributor to a scandalous column that calls out rakes and rogues and unmasks their intentions and usually spoiling their plans to get away with anything. Lucianna has a hunger for exposing rakes due to a deep grudge of her upbringing and her rogue father. She is most definitely the kind to attack first ask questions later. This time however, she may have gone too far,

Roderick Crofton is a Duke and is also the latest victim of Lucianna scandal column. Any other time he could of been called out for being a rogue, but this time he was not at fault. This scandal had now cost his family their fortune and any chance he had to wrong the rights are taken when the funds are dried up. Now he must find a well betrothed wife so he can settle his score.

Both Roderick and Lucianna cross paths, and form a friendship of sorts (a strange way of happening, but so be it). Lucianna father is set to marry her off to the very man who may have killed her friend, and Roderick knows Luci comes with a plump dowry .. well how perfect of a picture could this paint? Not so perfect when you consider the secrets that are held back. These secrets could very well be the undoing of their soon beloved relationship. So much more to this book, but I’m not ruining anything for you!

Another quick read from Christina McKnight. I read this in a afternoon and I do wish it was a little longer. I just found the story a little rushed as I did in the first book, which took away from some believability and character development. I enjoy getting to know the characters and being romanced through the forming of a relationship. This just moved a little too fast .. BUT .. she did write such a fantastic story with the same laughter, fierce female lead, side of mystery and romance that it made up for most of the negative.

Again, make sure you read the first book, it sets up this crime that this series is set around, and there is nothing like revisiting a couple or anticipating upcoming storylines. If you are looking for a wonderful shorter historical romance series to read on a lazy summer afternoon, I strongly recommend this one!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Rachel T.

The Misfortune of Lady Luciana teaser

about the author

Christina McKnight is a book lover turned writer. From a young age, her mother encouraged her to tell her own stories. She’s been writing ever since.

Christina enjoys a quiet life in Northern California with her family, her wine, and lots of coffee. Oh, and her books…don’t forget her books! Most days she can be found writing, reading, or traveling the great state of California.

You can visit her online at the following places: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon

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