Review: When A Scot Ties The Knot by Tessa Dare

 

I kissed a man in a skirt…and I liked it.

Maybe those aren’t the exact lyrics but, thanks to WHEN A SCOT TIES THE KNOT, I wouldn’t be opposed to a revision. It worked for our bluestocking heroine well enough!

A little falsehood from the past snowballs into an engagement Maddie Gracechurch never anticipated nor wanted. The same childhood fantasy becomes a Highland Captain’s  ticket to a stable life for his loyal troop. Where lies meet opportunity, can love exist too?

Read an excerpt: here

Madeline Gracechurch uses her boundless imagination to avoid the embarrassment of rejection her first London season by creating a fictitious relationship with an officer at war. This small lie blossoms into a full blown long distance relationship complete with smarmy letters posted for her parents' benefit and a heroic death that frees her to peaceful spinsterhood. But when a very real Captain Logan MacKenzie shows up on her doorstep years later- the tangled web of lies Maddie concocted will take more than a little finessing to undo.

Logan grew up rough, unloved and experiencing horrors of battle in a war that ended with him and his troop without a proper home to be welcomed to.  His hard exterior may ward off nefarious foes, but will it aide his claim on a castle bequeathed to him and the betrothed he never proposed to? 

The silly girl whose incriminating letters of their faux-engagement found their way to his camp over the years has grown into a gorgeous, maddening woman who proves cleverer at shirking his will than any enemy on the battlefield. To provide a home for his loyal followers Logan must get Maddie to submit to a marriage she never wanted in the first place; but also risks his heart as well as hers in the venture.

Rating: 4 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: Was the beginning- with the letters. This could have been a boring, unfeeling info dump but I enjoyed them immensely. I could have gone on and read a full book of Maddie’s letters to a supposed fantasy fiancé. The letters helped display Madeline’s brain (and the author's fun, tangible writing style) in an unassuming way. It made me think of Lisa Kleypas’ Love in the Afternoon which starts off similarly and I love when authors with a strong voice flex them this way.

Overall, it was another HIT of a love story from Tessa Dare. Again, she writes in a way that speaks close to home and entertains thoroughly.

A few gripes: There were these amazing secondary characters she developed- I wanted more! We have this incredible grandmother who disappeared halfway through the book and pops up sporadically towards the end. And then the band of forgotten soldiers- they all had their own quirks and a dynamic I would have enjoyed getting to see more of.

I have a heavy dislike for the “I am fighting against love/I am not worthy of love” angle most rom-novels adopt, and felt a bit cheated with the MoC plot since consummation took so long to occur, but the spirited heroine (an all-time favorite now), dazzling supporting cast, and expert writing style keep readers fully entwined and satisfied!

I love a good marriage of convenience story, I love the pen-pals (however one-sided) to lovers angle, I love Highlanders and Bluestockings—the way these elements were weaved together, while not always in the proportions I love, were compelling and heartfelt. 

Basically, Read it. Now.

Review: THE DUKE OF DARK DESIRES by Miranda Neville

Finally! Lord Julian's book is here and it definitely delivers! From the first chapter you'll become enraptured by this seductive tale of mutual subterfuge which is sprinkled with wit and heart. An unwanted dukedom, three unwanted wards, but a very much wanted governess will drive Julian Fortescue to commit unthinkable acts-- such as love and rising to responsibility.

Read an excerpt: here

If you thought Marie Antoinette had it bad, those aristocrats who survived the French Revolution might beg to differ. One fortunate (or unfortunate) noble who made it was Jeanne-Louise Marie-Adoree de Falleron, the once pampered daughter of the Marquis de Falleron. She endured the horrors of witnessing her family's execution and jumping from traitorous "protector" to "protector" to stay alive. She vows revenge against the man named Fortescue who betrayed her father's trust and foiled her family's escape plan- just as soon as she finds him.

Going by the alias of Jane Grey, Jeanne's hunt leads her to London and the home of the new Duke of Denford. The unexpectedly handsome new duke has just been saddled with the care of his precocious half sisters. This allows for the perfect opportunity to infiltrate the home of a member of the Fortescue family and with that Jane applies for the position of governess. The dubious potholes in her past notwithstanding, the duke finds her (and her looks) satisfactory and gives Jane the job. A dangerous dance of balancing pretenses and desires ensues, becoming further complicated with the entry of some treacherous characters in the form of an evil surviving cousin of Jeanne/Jane and a nemesis from the art world who has his eyes on Julian's treasured collection.

Rating:
4 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Story: Was witnessing Julian rise to the challenge and become an admirable brother, friend, lover, and peer of the realm. From the previous book, you know Julian isn't as dark and careless as his persona lets on, but it was very gratifying to see his evolution and the ways in which Neville displayed this. I was in love when he was a rotten apple, so I am positively smitten now.

I am no longer surprised when I reach the back cover of a Miranda Neville novel and realize she's done it again. This has to be one of my favorite stories and a perfect end to an exciting series. I can't think of much I didn't enjoy in this book. The references and respect of art (some aspects I could actually identify!) were always well represented and complimentary to the story. That rat of a cousin Jeanne/Jane had truly got under my skin, and the three step sisters were endearing and funny. I am never one for a long, drawn out, secret identty plot, but Neville made it bearable with her amazing secondary characters and scenes filled with heat. I am already anxiously awaiting what Neville conjures up next!

Review: LADY WINDERMERE'S LOVER by Miranda Neville

This latest offering from Miranda Neville is richly entertaining and expertly arranged. 1 part Marriage of Convenience + 1 part love triangle + a little dash of national intrigue = Your next fun read!

When the husband that abandoned her shortly after their wedding returns to town, Cynthia Chorley's battle with temptation and the past comes to a head. She is no longer the provincial nobody the Earl of Windermere married, but a fully grown woman with admirers a plenty and a stubborn streak that will test the Earl's resolve as much as it intrigues him.

Read an excerpt: here

The rift between Damian Lewis, Earl of Windermere and Julian Fortescue, newly minted Duke of Denford, dates back 7 years to Damian's majority. A bad turn of cards and one too many spirits led to the divesting of an important sentimental asset which Julian could have supposedly prevented. In retaliation, Damian interfered with Julian's (an untitled art dealer at the time) career prospects which set him back significantly and led to the lines being drawn in the sand.

One of those lines took the elegant form of Cynthia Lewis, née Chorley- the dukes neglected, provincial bride. Neither husband nor wife entered into the union under false impressions; In marrying Cynthia, Damian regained the asset lost to him all those years ago and also enjoys an infusion of cash. Cynthia gains a title and her family enjoys exalted status and their legacy continuing with the Earldom. Whatever the pretenses of the marriage, Cynthia was enthusiastic about giving married life with her handsome new husband a real go. Sadly, her chance would be delayed a year because shortly after consummating the marriage, Damian accepts an assignment from the Foreign Office which sends him trapezing all over Persia- sans wife.

Damian's slights and inattentiveness to his wife have festered and while the husband is away the devil will play. Julian tries his damnedest to seduce the wife of his ex-cohort almost as soon as he left the scene. When Damian returns he finds himself in an awkward love triangle that has deep seated issues and implications that run farther than forbidden attraction. It doesn't help that the biddable, country bumpkin of a wife he left behind has blossomed into a fashionable, polished temptress. Damian's newest assignment will have him biting his tongue and allowing the flirtation (and perhaps more) between his wife and nemesis to persist. Can he rein in his jealousy long enough to complete his objective? And what of the dizzying attraction he now feels for his wife- will that get in the way of a well-laid plan?

Through all of the misunderstandings and suppressed feelings, Cynthia and Damian will first have to make peace with the past and learn how to forgive  if they ever hope to achieve future bliss in love and friendship.

Rating:
3 1/2


My Favorite Part of the Book: I really enjoyed the Bhang scene where Damian teaches Cynthia about the hookah-like activity he brought home with him from his travels in Persia. The Bhang is a psychedelic which is inhaled and leaves a person feeling relaxed, happy, and "drunk". This scene occurs about 50% into the book and is the first time we see husband and wife truly connect and explore their chemistry. The more relaxed the couple became during the scene, the more enjoyable their interactions became to the reader. One of my favorite aspects of a romances novel is seeing first-hand how the protagonists' love develops and blooms. This scene was unique and sweet.

You can always expect to NOT be disappointed with a Miranda Neville novel. She has a way of putting together scenes and developing characters that secretly burrow their way into your subconscious and differentiates her stories from everyone else's. Her secondary characters are also always a delight and the misunderstood bad boy Julian was no exception (Yes, I am a Julian Fan-Girl). I like how the sub plot of the new assignment with Foreign Affairs that brought Damian back to London was both interesting and not as intrusive on the story as it could have been- leaving more room for relationship reconstruction. That being said, I really wish the love triangle element would have been explored more. If the journey back to harmonious marital bliss was going to take up the majority of the book than I would have enjoyed an even more compelling opposition in the form of Julian and Cynthia's relationship.

I feel as though Cynthia and Damian encountered so many road blocks which stalled their development as a couple and I would have much preferred a furthering of the forbidden connection to fill in some of that space than the rehashing/going nowhere interactions that dominated the middle-end of the book (in other words: a more proportioned distribution+ diversity of plot development). I also didn't connect much to the heroine- I admired her charitable characteristics and resolute attitude that developed from the trials she went through earlier in life, and her vulnerability and loneliness at being neglected by her husband endeared her more to me, but overall I  stopped caring about her as an individual character.


As stated, you can never go wrong with a Neville novel, and this latest offering is no deviation from that fact.

Blog Tour: Tartan Takeover with Karen Ranney ~ Book Spotlight and Giveaway!

Hey Guys! I am excited to be teaming up with BookSlapped on this awesome blog tour for Karen Ranney! This post is to spotlight book 2 in Karen's Clan Sinclair series, on-sale now, which features Logan and Mairi. Enter the giveaway for a chance at some cool prizes! I'll have reviews of book 1 and 2 later in the week but do yourself a favor and pre-order now! 

About The Book:
The next sizzling romance in New York Times bestselling author Karen Ranney's Clan Sinclair series...

Logan Harrison is looking for a wife. As the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, he needs a conventional and diplomatic woman who will stand by his side and help further his political ambitions. He most certainly does not need Mairi Sinclair, the fiery, passionate, fiercely beautiful woman who tries to thwart him at every turn. But if she's so wrong for him, why can't he stop kissing her? He is completely bewitched.

Mairi Sinclair has never met anyone like Logan Harrison, the perfect example of everything she finds wrong with the world. He's also incredibly handsome, immensely popular, and impossible to resist. His kisses inflame her and awaken a passion she can barely control.

Can two people who are at such odds admit to a love that would bind them together for life?

Order Your Copy Today!

Amazon (paperback) | Amazon (kindle)

Barnes & Noble (paperback) | Barnes & Noble (nook)

The Series:

  

More on the Author:

New York Times bestselling author Karen Ranney was first published in 1995. Since then, she's gone on to write dozens of historical romances, most of them set in Scotland.

Her books have been described as evocative, intensely romantic stories featuring characters who leap off the page.

~*~GIVEAWAY~*~

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Romancing the Duke by Tessa Dare -Review-

If I won the lottery, I'd buy a castle; Lucky for the heroine of this magnificent tale, she happened to inherit one - scary, yet severely sexy duke included! 

Izzy's life wasn't exactly akin to the characters' in her father's widely acclaimed stories. She was incredibly "plain" and exceedingly poor- but through a crazy twist of fate she now finds herself the new landlady of a dilapidated castle. 
Ransom Vane is the scarred and ornery duke hiding away in said castle and not exactly thrilled at the new intrusions Izzy's warped fairytale lucky has wrought. Sparks will fly, someone's sanity is questioned and two hearts join in this latest pleaser from Tessa Dare!

A Gentleman 'Til Midnight by Alison DeLaine [ARC Review]

It's captain versus captain in this battle of wills, attraction and righting wrongs from the past. A relentless force on the high seas, Our hellion heroine must embark on a journey back to her native England to ensure her inheritance isn't stolen from her. When a blast from the past requires salvation, his identity might help her cause more than she thinks...and in more ways than one.

Adventurous and intoxicatingly sweet, Alison DeLaine’s debut novel will strike a chord for any and every historical romance fan lucky enough to board passage on her story’s voyage.

'Never A Gentleman' by Eileen Dreyer –Review-

Read an excerpt: here

Fresh, different, absorbing- all apt words to describe this latest installment to the Drake’s Rakes series by Eileen Dreyer. A special kind of romance you have to read to believe! I couldn’t get over how much the characters, plot, and circumstances affected me during and after reading. I wanted to run over the Hero in my car, whack some sense into a heroine I ended up loving, and all the while, I crossed my fingers for their happily ever after. This book pushed the limits and sets itself apart from other historicals in a daring way. Never A Gentleman is quite simply a read to remember!

'The Prince's Groom' by KT Grant -Guest Review-

My bestie and blogging-bitch (lol, I kid) Carsen Travis from Paranormal Inferno: Book Reviews has another treat to share with us today. She's totally into M/M books (& is slowly converting me as we speak). After telling her about a cool pirate historical M/M I heard about, she couldn't resist buying it and constantly texted me quotes as she read. Now she wants to gush with you about it. Here we go:

Read an excerpt:  here

The Prince’s Groom is the second book (following The Princess’ Bride) in KT Grant’s pirate series. It begins with the main character, Thomas, attending his sister Daisy’s wedding to the ex-pirate, Chelsey. During the wedding Thomas begins looking for his lover of one month, Martin.  Even though Thomas has a strong love for Martin, he still can’t help doubting the future they might have and if Martin feels the same about him (mostly because Thomas doesn’t even know his lover’s first name or his age!)

'The Countess' by Lynsay Sands -Review-

Read an excerpt: here

   Witty and wonderful, “The Countess” grabs you instantly and refuses to let go until you fall in love. With enchanting protagonists, strong and endearing secondary characters, a fresh plot line, and some delicious dialogue, you’ll find yourself head over heels in no time at all.

   What’s a lady to do when she finds her ‘husband’ lying cold and unmoving on the library floor? Put him on ice and keep his death a secret, that’s what; At least until she finds a rich husband for her sister.

'The Princess In His Bed' by Lila DiPasqua -Review-

   This stunning and scorching sophomore offering by DiPasqua was positively delectable. The Fiery Tales Collection gets even more heated with the addition of these three retold fairy tales.
‘The Emperor’s New Clothes’ ‘The Ugly Duckling’ and ‘The Princess and the Pea’ get an erotic makeover and give adults their own version of a bedtime story.
   A cousin's ex-lover's ring finds it's way into an irresistible rake's pocket. The deception to win it back leads to some steamy 'missions'; A woman with scars that run far deeper than on her body decides to take the lead and experience pleasure before it's too late; And a princess, masquerading as a man has a pouch filled with the King's diamond and will have to gamble her brother out of the poor house, all while resisting the sexy spy at the tables. All this an more awaits you in between the covers.

[Read an excerpt: here]

The Marquis' New Clothes-Aimee de Miran is embroiled in a scandalous plot and deception to recover the lost ring of her cousin’s ex-lover. Louise d’Arcy’s torrid relationship with Renault de Sard has had it’s fair share of lover spats; but when Renault casts Louise aside, she retaliates but taking his jeweled ring given to him by the king. Louis immediately regrets her theft and wants to return the ring before her ex-lover-who also happens to be the King’s Lieutenant General of Police (and a stick up the butt)-before he has the chance to realize it’s gone and seeks justice. Unfortunately, the ring finds it’s way from Louise’s hand to the pocket of Adam de Vey’s justacorps.

Adam, the Marquis de Nattes, has been infatuated with Aimee de Miran (his good friend’s wife) for many years. With the passing of Aimee’s husband, Adam sees his opportunity to purge the enchanting Aimee from his system once and for all. The only problem is: she hates his guts! Aimee’s husband took advantage of her youthful and romantic feelings, destroying her dreams of love and a perfect marriage by choosing his whores over her. She won’t fall for another handsome rake with a wicked tongue, but Adam is determined to have her.

'Till Dawn With the Devil' by Alexandra Hawkins -Review-

   Till Dawn With The Devil was a sensational read! Period! I enjoyed this book immensely and only found disappointment when I realized I’d turned the last page. Alexandra Hawkins did a splendid job of weaving believable characters, palpable attraction, and a soundly satisfying plot line that will leave you panting for more!

   Lady Sophia Northam lives in a world of constant shadows and blurs. Partially blinded in an incident from her childhood, Sophia is use to the pitying glances and whispered criticisms by the ton. In the care of her spend thrifty and neglectful brothers; Sophia strives for her few freedoms and doesn’t believe she will ever obtain full independence (or a love match on the marriage mart).

   The Earl of Rainecourt is rumored to have murdered his pregnant wife in violent rage 8 years ago. The public's opinion of him doesn't matter anymore and he’s given up his life to the allures of vice. "Reign" is adamant that he will never relive his unfortunate family past with another unsuspecting innocent ever again.

   As we all know: Fate has a funny way of setting us up with our polar opposites. A rogue and an angel will travel down a path that leads to the happiness they both secretly covet, but will a deceptive and dangerous past derail them on their journey to passion and unconditional love?  

[Read an excerpt: here]

At a very young age, Lady Sophia Northam lost her parents in a scandalous murder. Young Sophia was nearby at the time, attacked, and partially blinded by the murder. Ever since, society has treated her like an unfortunate cripple and Sophia resigns her hope of ever marrying or finding a love match.. Although she can partly see at close range out of one eye, for the most part, Sophia lives in a murky blur. Despite her eyesight impediment, and the careless, neglectful treatment by her vice-ridden brothers, Sophia has a quiet dignity and graceful disposition that will soon enchant one of the most notorious Lords of Vice.

Life hasn’t been too kind to Gabriel “Reign” Housely, the fifth Earl of Rainecourt. Sure, he’s sinfully handsome, wonderfully wealthy, and an earl to boot; but what does any of that mean to the hallow man beneath the veneer? A dark and sinister family past, an impulsive and disastrous marriage to a shrew, and the untimely and mysterious death of said shrew (while 7 months pregnant), has all taken it’s toll on Reign. The ton believes he has followed in his violent father’s footsteps and killed his wife-and Reign isn’t too concerned with contradicting them. 8 years have pass and Reign now lives for his vices and has no intention of taking another bride anytime soon (or starting the family he sorely lacked and secretly yearns for).

To the annoyance of her thoughtless brothers, Sophia decides to come to London and enjoy the Season with two friends; even though she detests social gatherings where all of society waits on baited breath for her poor eyesight to cause an embarrassing episode. At a town ball, Sophia captures Reign’s attention from afar and their paths are then firmly intertwined for a lifetime. Try as he may, Reign can’t shake his infatuation with the lovely and gentle Sophia. Even though the ultimate demise of their parents are directly related, the bond of attraction grows to a full on inferno and when Reign sees an opportunity to play hero to the strong-willed Sophia, the confirmed bachelor will do what he must.  

The past will come back to haunt our couple as they struggle to grasp the chance at happiness they never thought they would have. Will love be enough to bring our angel and devil together?

Rating: 5 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: Was the camaraderie between the Lords of Vice! What a sinfully satisfying group of men! I think Chillingworth (Frost) is an ass, but he will probably end up being my favorite character in the series! I am still chanting "A toast, a bawdy boast..."

This book enchants from the prologue and makes an instant fan out of anyone reading Alexandra Hawkins for the first time. I enjoyed the flawed characters with their hidden inner strength and dizzying chemistry. I am always a fan of the dark hero, so seeing a vice-ridden Reign work through his issues and find love with Sophia was satisfying and endearing. This has been yet another book in which finding fault has proven difficult.. The plot was well developed and engaging while making the reader sit on the edge of their reading chairs and raptly drinking in all the action. I only wish it would have lasted longer. The protagonists’ relationship was one I would have liked to have seen developed a bit more after it reached it's new level towards the end. I wanted a bit more from them in the new phase of their relationship before we reached the climax in the story.
You simply must read this book! I’ll be on the look out for the next Lord of Vice story without a doubt!

[A special thanks to the author
for sending a copy for review]

*Want more Hawkins? Yeah, I know you do. Try the first book in the Lord of Vice series, 'All Night With A Rogue'!

'Vow Of Deception' by Angela Johnson -Review-

   'Vow of Deception' is a solid and enjoyable medieval romance with a steadfast, yet vulnerable hero and a resilient heroine. You'll absolutely FALL for the irresistible characters and compelling plot line!
   What's a knight to do when his cousin, also known as the King, commands him to escort a friend's sister into the clutches of a monster? Sir Rand Montague has a job to do and can't allow his feelings for Rose to cloud his judgment.
   Rosalyn is just starting to find some peace after the death of her abusive husband, Bertram. When the King decides to betroth her and turn over control of her son's estate to one of his knights, he doesn't realize the turmoil he will put Rose and Rand through.
   Now, to save her from a repeat of the past, Rand will have to marry Rose. She may be reluctant and refuse to consummate their vows, but danger and passion will lend a helping hand in bringing our two together.


Sir Rand Montague has a duty and obligation to his cousin, King Edward I. Escalating hostilities between England and Wales has the King strategizing and fortifying his holdings for an imminent attack. One estate which is close to the Welsh marches along the English border-which is the perfect place for the Welsh or English to strike-belongs to the barony of Ayleston. With the previous Lord and master, Lord Bertram, dead, the widowed Lady Rosalyn Harcourt (Lady Ayleston) and her son, Jason, are unprotected and vulnerable to any attacks the Welsh choose to initiate. Rand being a friend of Alex, Rosalyn's brother (and hero of the previous book; 'Vow Of Seduction') and secretly smitten with Rosalyn, see the question of her safety as his to answer.

When King Edward decides to marry off Rosalyn to one of his knights so that the estate is under 'stronger' control, he send Rand as her escort to court. Rosalyn suffered through an abusive marriage which tore at her self-esteem and sensual freedom. She wants nothing more to do with men and now only lives for her son. She decides she wants to make a vow of chastity so that she will never have to be under a man's control ever again, but she gets derailed from her plans when Sir Rand Montague shows up at the King's insistence to escort her to court.

Rosalyn's King-selected betrothed, Sir Golan de Coucy, is a vile man who is similar to her late-husband, and Rose can't suppress the dread and dejavu as Sir Golan tries to force his attentions on her before they are even wed. Rose sees the marriage to Sir Golan as a prison sentence all over again and will do anything to be released from it.

Rand can't bare to see Rose go down the path of misery for a second time and offers to marry her and save her from her fate. She agrees, but only if the marriage is in name only. Her late-husband made her feel inferior and disgusting for having natural reactions to carnal pleasures, so even though she is attracted to Rand and knows he is a good man, she finds it difficult to indulge in her marital bed or open up to Rand.

Slowly, Rand will have to break through Rose's defenses to make their marriage one they both deserve. Little does he know, Rose holds a secret that will soon change his life forever, and all the while, Sir Golan is furious at being duped out of a wife and lush lands, so he vows revenge. Lives are in danger and passions rise to a boil as Rand battles to save the one he loves and give them both a chance at the happily ever after they've both been denied in the past.

Rating: 3 1/2 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: Is when Rose is assaulted by Sir Golan and Rand swoops in and saves her. I thought this scene was intense and sweet because you saw the years of torment Rose went through with her first husband rush to the surface again and Rand is there to help her through it. And then, Rand goes one step further and offers to marry her and save her from marriage to Sir Golan! The scenes were well-written and the made me itch to find out what would happen next.

If you're a fan of good medieveil romances, than you are a fan of 'Vow of Deception'. Whenever a plot deals with an abused heroine, the progression of the story is somewhat centered around her recovery. While reading this book, you'll be pulling for Rosalyn and swooning for Rand's gallantry. I would have liked that progresson of recovery to move/develop just a bit faster and have some of that extra page time devoted to the sub plot of the Jason's paternity, but there was enough interesting plot line to move you along in the story. I was sataisfied with the action-packed ending and will be reading more Angela Johnson books in the near-furture.

[Special Thanks to the author
for sending a copy for review]

* Want more Johnson novels? Try 'Vow Of Seduction', Rosalyn's brother, Alex's story!

'Seducing The Duchess' by Ashley March -[ARC]Review-

   A brilliant debut, with a wonderful plot line and plenty of sinfully satisfying characters. ‘Seducing The Duchess’ is a wonderful story filled with all the longing, deception, and forgiveness (and of course, romance) a book reader could ever ask for.

   Philip Burgess has his ducal mask screwed on tight and nothing could break through his iron-hard veneer of superiority. That is, nothing except the “Gambling, Carousing, and Flirting” of his wife and duchess, Charlotte. Their marriage was founded on a lie, and after years of trying to get back at her husband and convince him to petition for divorce, Charlotte finally gets his acquiescence.

   Or so she thinks! The Duke of Rutherford has finally seen the error of his ways and has no intention of giving up his Duchess. Now, Philip will commence with the seduction of a lifetime that he hopes will win back the woman he loves before she’s lost to him for good.

[Read an excerpt: here]

   “What in the world...!? The Duke of Rutherford kidnapped his own wife?” A conversation that probably graced ever fashionable drawing room the morning after Philip Burgess barged into a popular gaming hell, bodily removed his duchess off the lap of a gentleman, and into his carriage bound for the country.

   Charlotte Burgess held no illusions about her aristocratically perfect husband. He told her in no uncertain term, the morning after they consummated their marriage, that he wedded her out of revenge. Charlotte’s brother Ethan had stolen Phillip’s fiancée and as a result the best friends turned enemies, and young Charlotte was placed squarely in the middle of a deceitful bid for vengeance.

   Charlotte loved Philip with everything she had, and once her world came crashing back down to reality, she decided she’d never be manipulated and controlled ever again. She wanted a divorce- didn’t give a damn about scandal or propriety- and had been increasingly goading Philip into submission for three years with her scandalous behavior. He claimed to love her once, and she wouldn’t make the mistake of believing it of him a second time.

   The lack of communication between husband and wife has firmly sealed the complex duke in a box with definite & harsh labels, and his duchess can’t see how contrite he really is. Philip realizes he loves Charlotte something fierce and will do anything to have her. He goes about an elaborate plan to do some goading of his own and get back on solid footing with his wife. The sequence of events that take place and the unfamiliar positions it leaves our troubled couple in are enough to make the freeing of his beautiful Charlotte a painful necessity. But Philip is about to learn that sometimes, the best way to seduce a reluctant heart is by letting it go and praying like hell that it finds its way back to you. 

Rating: 4 Read Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: Is hard to choose! There were many wonderful parts to this book that really worked and warmed my heart (or sent me into a fit of giggles). I particularly loved the beginning of the novel and the kidnapping of Charlotte. The scene was very well written and exceedingly suspenseful. You see into Philip’s head and can’t help but wait on bated breath to find out what happens next!

   This book was a hit in my opinion. It was very well written and exceedingly suspenseful right from the beginning. Every bone in your body screams to know what’s going on and once you get to the last sentence of the first chapter, you know this will be a book you’re going to fall in love with! I am not overly fond of when a book play a little too hard to get, and I definitely would have liked to see more movement forward in the Burgess' relationship, instead of the renewed determination to fight off the inevitable (they do grow, but the hostility is a bit lengthy). Philip’s blind desperation and obsession to have Charlotte back, and the lengths he went to see that happen, grew a bit round about. You may catch yourself screaming at the pages, “Tell her you dammit love her, already. Everything will start to work out if you’re upfront!” You’ll want to shake some sense into Philip and also cuddle him beneath your bosoms because his vulnerability (especially towards the end of the book) is so very palpable. Charlotte also agitated me at times, but she also became one of my favorite characters. The repartee is fabulous and the story just melts off the page like butter in a frying pan. You’re going to want to hop on this read immediately and join the March express to more wonderful novels just like this one. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us next!

[A special thanks to the author

for sending the ARC for review]

*Want more March? Yea, me too. Expect her next book, Romancing The Countess, to be out in Fall 2011 (tentative). And make sure you periodically check her fab website (http://ashleymarch.com) / Check out My Interview with Ashley March about 'Seducing The Duchess' and more: here

'My Reckless Surrender' by Anna Campbell -Review-

‘My Reckless Surrender’ is an intriguing and sensuous read, beautifully written and diabolically addicting. You won't want to put it down! This is the first Anna Campbell novel for me, but I can assure you it won't be the last!

   Cranston Abbey has been everything to Diana Carrick for as long as she could remember. When the opportunity to become its mistress comes along, she can hardly believe it. But what must she do to obtain such a prize? Seduce and become impregnated by one Tarquin Vale, Earl of Ashcroft, that's what! What will happen to Diana once her surrender is made and her heart gets caught in the crossfire?

[Read an excerpt: here]

   Tarquin Vale works hard to mask his surprise when a veiled woman waltzes into his study, unchaperoned, and asks to become his lover. He sends her about her way, but she infiltrates his thoughts relentlessly after her departure and Tarquin begins to rethink his objections a little too late.

   Or perhaps he’s not so late after all when they ‘happen’ across each other again at a demimonde affair. This time, Tarquin won’t over play his hand. He’ll get what he wants from Diana, even if he is somewhat suspicious about her motives.

   An affair begins between the two and starts to transform into something deeper than either of them are prepared for. Tarquin has his reasons for keeping everyone in his life at a distance, but he soon finds himself pouring out his soul to the woman who’s only job was to warm him bed. Diana just wanted Tarquin’s seed in her womb so Lord Burnley would marry her and she would become mistress of Cranston Abbey.

   When Diana begins to see the genuine and honest person Tarquin turns out to be, and not the “Rake. Debauchee. Hellspawn” she originally thought he was, the guilt and remorse builds up. But she’s in too deep by this point to turn around now, and when shit hits the fan, it’s her heart that stands to lose the most.

   Her objective is reached, but she doesn’t care. She hurt Tarquin unbelievably, and now, if only to provide her unborn child a name, she must marry the man who put her up to it. “Seduction is a most dangerous game…” but with passion, understanding, and unspeakable love, it can become a game worth winning.

Rating: 4 1/2 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: Is when Tarquin ‘runs into’ Diana again at a courtesan's ball and chooses to indulge in her previous offer. Once they head out, Tarquin is so 'ready to go' that the hardly makes it to the alley behind the theater before he starts exploring Diana’s body. Diana’s isn’t a whore whose use to giving in to carnal pleasures, so when an acquaintance of Tarquin’s stumbles upon them and makes remarks to that effect, she doesn't take it lightly. Shockingly, Tarquin defends her steadfastly- even threatening to duel over Diana's 'honor'. Throughout the seduction of Tarquin, Diana tries to resign herself to the label of whore, but Tarquin immediately senses how contradictory that is and this particular scene is very foretelling.

   The choice is quite simple: In need of a great read? Pick up ‘My Reckless Surrender’ by Anna Campbell. I appreciated the development of the plot and all of the twist and turns I didn’t see coming. I am trying to rack my brain and pick out something from this book that I didn’t enjoy, but I am honestly finding it difficult! The only thing I would have liked to see would be a fleshing out of the ending. Towards the end of the book, there is a brief period where Diana let’s her dread over what she’s done consume her. With Tarquin’s support, she makes peace with what she did- but it was a bit speedy and something I wanted to see developed more (even though fleshing it out would have probably given the story a never-ending quality to it that some people don't like. I still would have liked a slower progression of Diana’s path to self-redemption. The further into the story I got, the more I became invested and had to know how it ended. I am sure you’ll feel the same way, too!

[A special thanks to the author

for sending a review copy]

*Want more Campbell? Try Captive Of Sin

'The Dangerous Viscount' by Miranda Neville -[ARC]Review-

   In this rousing addition to the Burgundy Club series, Miranda Neville takes the classic ideals of a historical protagonist and turns it on its head! The Dangerous Viscount features a new kind of hero, and you won't be able to NOT fall in love!
   In a society filled with scandalous rogues and irresistible rake-hells, yet determined to make an irrefutable match that can withstand the 'oddness' of her family, Diana Fanshawe must tread carefully in her search for a new husband.
   Book connoisseur, Sebastian Iverley, isn't as dangerous as all that. At least, not until AFTER his whirlwind makeover from geek to chic.
   A kiss that started it all, a bet that went awry, and a thirst for revenge which seals the fate of a timid bookworm and a confident temptress, are the circumstances in which an ever-lasting love is forged.

[Read an excerpt: here]

   Diana Fanshawe isn't necessarily ashamed of her family, but her determination to marry well and keep their 'eccentrics' out of the drawings rooms of fashionable society is unparalleled. She sets her cap for the cocksure Lord Blakely (a duke) and tries to convince herself that a lifetime with him is exactly what she wants. Diana just wants to be normal and make her way in society without the backhanded comments and never-ending whispers.
   She finds her way into Lord Blakely's inner-circle during an intimate house party, and though Blakely doesn't show an overwhelming affection for her (he like's her fortune well enough), he ropes her into a bet that targets his 'homely' cousin, Sebastian. Blakely questions Sebastian's experience with females (along with his sexuality) and it is up to Diana to entice him to kiss her in an allotted amount of time.

   Sebastian Iverley is as bookish as they come and doesn't have time for females. He finds the annoying giggle-machines his cousin usually fawns over infuriating, and would rather not be bothered. Then he meets Diana, and his opinion on women soon changes. The urges he has suppressed since adolescence soon takes precedence and the kiss he shares with Diana sets his blood afire, making him rethink his position on the opposite sex.
   But that new found appreciation for women is shattered when he overhears his cousin and a cohort discussing the bet they started with Diana. He was so close to proposing marriage to the schemer, and then he has to find out that everything was a lie? A joke!? Sebastian has more pride than that, and soon calls on his stylish comrades from the Burgundy club to give him a makeover that will fit his new title of  'Viscount Iverley' and turn more than a few heads. He plans to exact revenge on Diana for playing him like a fool and make her regret what she did to him.

   Diana doesn't understand why that kiss with Sebastian won't stop hounding her thoughts, but as the Season starts to pick up, and the proper marriage she envisioned with Blakely begins to pale, Diana can't restrain her jealousy over the New Sebastian. She never found him unattractive, but his new look isn't going completely amiss either. He ignores Diana completely and pays court to the giggly nuisances he once made fun of, further stroking her ire.

   Sebastian soon put the next phase of his plan into action, and the consequences turn out to be for a lifetime. But all is not lost, because unconditional love lasts just as long.

Rating: 4 Red Rose

My Favorite Part of the Book: Is when Sebastian goes to a brothel for the first time. He wants to increase his experience so that when he seduces Diana, he has the necessary skills. But he can't go through with it and rushes out. The scene had all sorts of implications, but I found it funny when the whore gives Sebastian leave to touch her body and he slips his hands into her bodice. The way he describes the encounter in his mind is just too hilarious for words. (There were many memorable moments in this book, but I just chose this one because once you read the novel, you'll giggle yourself pink at this particular part!)

[Here's a clue: I will never be able to think of raisins as an innocent snack anymore]

   This book was different and yet classic in many ways, and well worth a read (or two!). The plot takes you through many ups and downs and all the while, Diana and Sebastian experience tremendous growth. Diana was social conscious to a fault and Sebastian was a practical scholar who didn't give a wit about 'image'; but together they embraced  who they were and developed the confidence to love themselves as well as each other. And Sebastian's super raw vulnerability is so beautifully written and displayed for us readers to see. I was pleasantly surprised by his unique character and fell in love with him just as quickly as I fall in love with all the other macho hero's from historicals. This book proves that the only reason to be disappointed by a Miranda Neville novel is because the book will eventually come to an end!

[A special thanks to the author

for sending an egalley for review]

*Try the first book in the Burgundy club series, 'The Wild Marquis'!

'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed' by Tracy Anne Warren -[ARC] Review-

   A touching and romantic love-story about overcoming grief and allowing true love to take root. A stellar read that will leave you VERY satisfied, indeed!
   Mallory Byron is knee deep in the throes of grief after the loss of her beloved fiancee', Major Michael Hargreaves. She won't take dinner with the house guest anymore, she hardly speaks at length with members of her own family, and the tears and nightmares still plague her lonely nights.
   Who would have thought it would take the 'notorious rake' and family friend, Adam Gresham, Earl of Gresham, to work a smile on her face. But little does she know, he plans to work way more than a smile out of her and plans to see to her future happiness...with him. Mallory isn't sure if she's ready to abandon her 'comfortable' isolation and take a chance on a man whom she may never be able to love, but Adam is persistent and soon she may find her self become well acquainted with the wondrous, amazing and Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed.

Read an excerpt: here

   Mallory Byron is the sister to Duke of Clybourne. She has a loving and supportive family, albeit with their "mad,bad and dangerous" reputations, all of whom have settled and benefited from marriages filled with love, passion, and understanding. That was all she wanted out of life as well, but after her fiancee' is reported dead on the front lines of war, she can't help but feel the acute pain as her deepest desire begins to slips from grasp. Her mourning period has come and gone, but still, Mallory feels Major Michael Hargreaves' passing keenly. Somehow, the tears keep falling, and her heart fall further and further to the point of no return.
   At a house party (designed with working Mallory out of her funk in mind), in walks the dashing and deliciously rakish Adam, Earl of Gresham, who has been a friend of the family for many years and silently in love with Mallory for what feels like just as long (although Mallory hasn't a clue). When he first realized his feelings for Mallory, he was nothing more than a financially deprived heir who was poised to inherit his father's outstanding debt and damn-near decrepit house along with the Earl's title. He didn't have much to offer Mallory, so he decided to hold out until his circumstances improve before starting any courtship. While he kept his distance, the young Major stole Mallory's heart, and Adam had to fight every impulse and let her go.
   As unfortunate as Hargreaves' death is, it provides a window of opportunity for Adam which he can't pass up. But first, he must coax the reluctant Mallory out of her depression and bring some sunshine and laughter back into her life.
   Being found in Mallory's bed, in a compromising state, by all 4 of her intimidating brothers, and forcing the hand of his pal, the Duke of Clybourne, wasn't exactly what Adam had in mind for his grand woo-ing. The circumstances ties our Hero and Heroine together for a lifetime of passion, desire, and mutual healing and understanding as they begin to develop love for one another; but how will Mallory ever be able to let go of her past and embrace this new future?
   In this beautiful love story (and you can not read this book and not call it that), Adam will have to learn that if he truly loves someone, sometimes he just has to let them go-a second time-; and hope that the Wicked Delight of a Bridal Bed and his unconditional love will be enough to have them coming back and staying where they belonged all along. 

Rating: 4 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: Is the general beginning as Adam begins to work Mallory out of her depression. She hardly eats or socializes, choosing to isolate herself from those who love her most in her time of grief. She has been unhappy for so long, that the family is desperate to bring some warmth and happiness back into her life. Adam loves her, and wants to see her happy again, and you can feel the genuineness of his actions. He barges into her rooms all casual-like and convinces her to eat dinner with everyone else, he helps pick out her dresses and takes her for intimate picnics when she's had enough of everyone else. It is just so heart warming to recount Adam's actions in regards to his Mallory. *sigh*

   In the end, when you open a romance book, you want to see some romance. The love Adam has for Mallory, and the love Mallory develops for Adam, is really believable. I love the concept of Mallory's grieving over a lost love and being granted a second chance at a new one. There is a plot twist towards the end that will have you gasping and "OMG"-ing like crazy and you'll have to read the story to find out what it is (my lips are sealed. =X), but this was one of the more genuine stories I've read in a while. It was deep and dark without letting  those elements overwhelm the plot, and you're sure to fall in love by the time you reach the back cover!

*Check out my Interview (and giveaway) with Tracy Anne Warren where she'll answer some of my questions on the book and more!: -Tentative date- scheduled to be up on the day Wicked Delights of a Bridal Bed is release, August 31st, 2010!

[special thanks to Tracy's publicist, Christine

for sending the

egalley for review.]

*Want some more of the Byrons of Braebourne? Check out 'At The Duke's Pleasure', Mallory's brother (the Duke of Cylbourne), Edward's Story! My Review can be found: here

*Also try Book # 1 from Warren's The Trap Trilogy, 'The Husband Trap'!

'Desires Of A Perfect Lady' by Victoria Alexander -Review-

   Reluctant adventure and reluctant love are what await you if you choose to pick up this novel. A delightful story of love lost and then found and then put to the test once again.
   While on a quest to procure the missing pieces to her late-husband's art collections, which will ensure she receives her inheritance left to her from his death, Lady Olivia Rathbourne must now turn to the one man she trusted with her heart 10 years ago and who failed her when she needed him most.
   Sterling Harrington, the Earl of Wyldewood, fell hard for the joyful 18 year old Olivia when he was only 20. Now, a decade later, a deception which tore the two apart has been revealed and Lady Olivia is in danger once again. She needs his help not only to stay alive but to gain her financial independence and freedom; and Sterling will NOT fail her again.
   And then Olivia's secret list of desires comes into play, and a journey for treasure turns into a journey back to love.

Read an excerpt: here

   Respected (or at least tolerated) member of The London Antiques Society, it was the consensus that Lord Rathbourne, in spite of his impressive art collections, was a man of questionable character. It really didn't come as much of a shock when his lordship was found murdered, in the garden, with his neck slit. He was a man of many possessions and a possessiveness towards said possessions (try saying that 3x fast). You could ask his wife, Lady Olivia Rathbourne, exactly how far he went to securing his interests. Forced to marry Lord Rathbourne and not the love of her life was just the start of Olivia's 10 year estrangement from the world (and from happiness). Finally, her husband is dead and she is free, but a stipulation in her husband's will which states that in order to receive her full inheritance as his widow, she must complete 3 of his unfinished art collections, which will likely see her sequestered in their oppressive home for the rest of her life.
   But Olivia has been through far too much at the hands of her husband, and waited far to long to start crossing items off her secret list of desires, to let Lord Rathbourne continue to control her from the grave. She picks up the gauntlet he has set out for her, but with little money and limited resources to accomplish her goals, she finds she must seek out the help of the man who failed to save her from marrying Lord Rathbourne in the first place( and whom she spent the last 10 years trying to forget she loved).
   Sterling Harrington was an Earl. He had two brothers who were adventures, but his responsibilities left little room for adventures. Considered stuffy, stodgy, and incredibly dull,. Sterling has tried to forget the lighter times in his life. 10 years ago he met and fell in love with Olivia, but one day, Olivia's father came acalling; informing the Earl that Olivia would be marrying Lord Rathbourne and that she had no desire to see him ever again. Heart broken and dejected, he ignored the 3 letters Olivia sent him in the beginning (which he thought were softer-worded apologies) and married, lost his wife and moved on with his life.
   A decade later, Olivia's father calls on him again, with little time left in his life and a multitude of sins to try and atone for. He informs Sterling that he forced Olivia to marry Lord Rathbourne and that she sent the Earl those letters, begging him to save her from the match but that they went unanswered. He then informs Sterling that he believes the same persons who killed Lord Rathbourne could possibly come back and do harm to Olivia, and that he wants Sterling to protect her. Reluctant at first, Sterling insinuates himself back into Olivia's life with a mission to keep her safe as he should have done 10 years ago.
   Olivia isn't exactly okay with Sterling's reappearance in her life, but his insistence on helping her will begin to become more warmly receipted when she finds out about her husband's stipulation in his will. Sterling's presences will also make crossing off the bedding of him off her list.
   Their quest takes them to Egypt with scary Egyptian snakes, and then to Venice, where a Counte and his Contessa will be of a similar mind to court the favor of our Hero and Heroine. By happenstance, procuring the first two items for the collection is relatively easy; it's the resolving of issues from the past and making item #1 on Olivia's secret list of desires a task worth a lifetime, which will prove difficult.

Rating: 3 1/2 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: Is when Olivia is after the second item in Venice. She meets the flirtatious Counte de Sarafini, whom is the owner of the painting she needs to complete the second collection. He invites her to luncheon with the unexpressed intention of luring her to his bed. She goes to the luncheon alone, flirting outrageously with the Counte as well, but offers no more than a trade of paintings instead of a trade of bed-favors for the required paintings. The scene is funny because the Contessa has invited Sterling to a private luncheon too and he goes so he can negotiate for the painting, as well. Olivia is caught in a compromising position, and the dynamics of these scenes are priceless!

   Overall, this book was an enjoyable read. Having read the previous novel, 'The Virgin's Secret', I had a little bit of knowledge on the Sterling-Olivia debacle. While I felt the 'adventure' theme over-whelmed the romance a bit, it was interesting to a degree and played it's role. I felt the characters were developing steadily, both of mind and relationship, but I did feel the revelations weren't developed as well as they could have and ran around in circles a bit. There was longing, coated in betrayal that was real interesting to read and it teased the reader throughout the novel. Give it a read!

*Try the previous novel in the Harrington Brother's series, 'The Virgin's Secret'. My Review can be found: here

*Want more from Victoria Alexander? Try 'Love With The Proper Husband'.

'Awakened By A Kiss' by Lila DiPasqua -Review-

   Wickedly wanton and thrillingly tantalizing; 'Awakened By A Kiss' was exciting and passionate and one of those reads you just couldn't put down. Set in seventeenth century France, Lila DiPasqua takes 3 beloved childhood fairy tales and gives them a sensuous makeover. You'll never look at sleeping beauty the same way again!
   Awakening to a stranger's kiss, one-night stands, aphrodisiacs, forbidden publications, mistaken identity, special agents for the crown, and scarf-loving bastard daughters of the King. All this and more lay within the pages of this spectacular debut by Lila DiPasqua.'Sleeping Beauty' , 'Little Red Riding Hood' and 'Puss In Boots' have been transformed into something insanely erotic and gratifying for the adults who like a little heat thrown into their happily ever after...

Read a sizzling excerpt: here

Sleeping Beau- Follows the reunion between one of the most notorious bastard sons of the King and the woman who stole into his bedchamber after slipping him an aphrodisiac, awakening him with a kiss that lead to a steamy sexual interlude. He awakes the morning after with his unnamed 'midnight temptress' mysteriously vanished and the evidence of her virginity smeared along the bedsheets. Fast-forward 5 years later and we meet our 'sleeping beau' once again as his gaze alights over the red-headed beauty who has plagued his dreams in all that time. At first, Catherine tries to deny it was her, but Adrien eventually gets his way and get her to reveal why she did what she did. They proceed to have an affair for the week until Cathrine's betrothed comes to get her. The motives behind her deception is out in the open and Adrien can't help but admire the maddening stubbornness of his ladylove. When Catherine's betrothed come for her early, it may be Adrien's own stubbornness that threatens his future happiness with the woman he's pined after for 5 years and now has come to love.

Little Red Writing- The Vignon spinster sisters were beautiful, intelligent, writer with skill, and guarding a secret that could lead straight to their ruin. Nicolas de Savignac (a.k.a The Wolf) is a Musketeer for the King sent on an assignment to unmasked and bring down Gilbert Deluc; author of the incendiary volumes which besmirch the image of men of consequence. His investigation takes him to his estranged grandmother's house and he zeros in the house guests; The Vignon 'spinsters'. He is immediately attracted to one of the sisters: Anne, and although he is in residence under false pretenses (to forge a civil relationship with his grandmother) and inevitably will have to bring charges up against one or all of the sisters, his can't resist the strong pull that draws him to Anne and an affair begins. While Nicolas ruefully gets closer to identifying which sister is the infamous author, he and Anne fall deeper in love with one another. Nicolas' hand is now forced to act when his comrade informs their commander of their suspicion of the Vignon sisters and he is order to bring in the culprit or have the entire family brought in. The betrayal Anne feels is acute, but the love Nicolas has for her and she for him will have to be enough to eclipse whatever plans the King has in store for 'Gilbert Deluc'. 

Bewitching In Boots- Being the King's favorite daughter is a coveted position. That distinction was currently held by the headstrong Elisabeth de Roussel.She may be thought of as an outrageous flirt, but she knows what she wants; and she wants Tristan de Tiersomier. Tristan was recently injured and relieved of his duties as commander of the King's private Guard. He retired himself to the grounds at his estate, shunning the world and burying his feelings beneath a sea of resentment. When the enticing Elisabeth saunters her way into his inner-sanctum (and wearing breeches and BOOTS no less) demanding fencing lessons, he can only grit his teeth and try to bare it. Elisabeth, however, has plans of her own. She seeks more than lessons in the fencing arts from Tristan and when she successfully induces an affair, she plots to flip the situation in her favor and make Tristan hers for a lifetime. Her plans could possibly blow up in her face, but she will do anything to heal Tristan's hurts and posses his heart.

Rating: 4 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: There were many! This book had 3 separate stories within it and I have my favorite moments for each. Bewitching in Boots was my favorite story out of the three and my favorite moment is when Tristan starts questioning Elisabeth's motive for seeking him out. He tries to scare her away by saying that if she isn't out of his home by tomorrow she will be tied up to his bed and he will have his way with her. At first, in the morning, Elisabeth and her entourage are no where to be found, but not only do they come back with reinforcements (to help fix up Tristan's house) but Elisabeth presents Tristan with a box of scarves for him to tie her up with later that night.

What it boils down to is this: Miss DiPasqua is probably one of the most promising debut authors to hit the scene so far in 2010. Her short stories were well-written, well-paced and flavored with an insane amount of heat and spice. I think many short-stories are prone to accelerated plots where the love is unconvincing and the character development lacks; that is not the case with 'Awakened By A Kiss'. It's a little different from the classic historicals I am use to, but it has set a new precedence in my reading exploration and I look forward to reading more from this author!

*In November, DiPasqua will delight us with 3 more fiery tales in 'The Princess In His Bed'

'That Perfect Someone' by Johanna Lindsey -Review-

   This one was a nice novel to curl up with on a rainy day and get swept away. It was as action-packed and full of twists and turns as any novel we can expect from Lindsey, and I really liked it. 'That Perfect Someone' wasn't as affecting as some of the other Mallory novels in the series, but it still holds solid merit.
   Julia Miller is shocked to find the battered up face of her elusive fiancee' staring back at her after he left England and disappeared without a trace all those years ago.
   Richard Allen is dangerously in love with the wife of a formidable English nobleman (the beloved James Mallory, see 'Gentle Rogue') and can't help himself when an opportunity to clap eyes on James' wife again comes about.
   He fled England 9 years ago to escape the controlling manipulations of his father, the Earl of Manford, and is now dismayed when his precarious foray back to London puts him face to face with the one woman he detests the most; his fiancee'.


   For 9 long years, Julia Miller and her fortune were held firmly on the shelf. Betrothed practically from infancy, Julia held no illusions as to why her presumable husband-to-be left England and never came back. They threatened each other with consequences of death multiple times, and Julia even managed to draw blood from Richard on more than one occasion when their tempers couldn't be reigned in. Finally determined to put the past behind her and take the reigns of her future, Julia begins to contemplate the best way to rid herself of her troublesome marriage contract to Richard Allen and start her life anew. She hopes for the chance to engage all of society as a woman in search of a husband of her choosing, but fate had other plans.
   At the masquerade ball being thrown in honor of Georgina Mallory's birthday, friends and family from near and far all come together to celebrate. Little do they know, amidst the crush of party-goers, the 'Frenchmen sailor' moving among them is not only a party crasher, but the missing son of an Earl. Richard Allen left home 9 years ago, determined to make it on his own, fell into piracy and came out on the other side of things with the help of his loyal friends. Richard was the second son of the Earl of Manford and once his eldest brother married well-socially-,  it was up to him to marry well-financially-. His father never showed him any semblance of love or affection and tried to control every aspect of Richard's life until one day, he had enough and took matters into his own hands. 
   Back in London for a short visit, Richard tries to avoid detection by both those from his former life and the husband of the woman he is dangerously infatuated with. Suffice to say, nothing goes according to plan and he comes face to fist with James Mallory and face to face with the woman he left behind.
   Julia is in a rage once she discovers Richard is back and she tries to settle the matter of their betrothal before he get the chance to takes off again. When Richard is also discovered by his father, he is given an ultimatum: either marry Julia or be 'taught a lesson' and transported to Australia as a 'convict'. The latter is forced on him when he refuses to marry just to fill his father's pockets, and it is Julia (with the help of a reluctant James Mallory & friends) who saves him from his horrid fate.
   Once Richard is safely off the transport ship, he and Julia come to a 'truce' of sorts and put their differences aside so that they may devise a plan to steal the marriage contract which has ruled their lives thus far and destroy it. The plan was simple: pretend to be in love to gain entry into the Earl's home, search for the contract and dispose of it, and FINALLY move on with their lives. But, as their feelings for each other start to grow more intense, their plan backfired and they now have to face the consequences together. The hero and heroine are both stubborn as mules, but eventually they learn to be honest with themselves and each other and soon realize that they are with their 'Perfect Someone'.

Rating: 3 1/2 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: Is when Richard is saved from being transported to Australia, and at first has no knowledge that it is Julia who helped put the rescue party together. He says something mean to her and then she gets upset and runs off. The others in the cabin who witness this call him out on his stupidity and he goes after her to try and make things right. In the heat of his apology, some old feelings are stirred up and as Richard comforts Julia, they begin to feel some undeniable sexual tension. The whole sequence of scenes were sweet, sensual and full of emotion and I loved them!

   Overall, you're guaranteed to find something to love about this book. Like the main character's struggle to remember exactly why they hated each other all those years ago, the side plot of Richard's true paternity, or the wonderful cameos by some Mallory series favorites. Towards the end of the novel, it feels as though the story is being prolonged. Once Julia and Richard decide to be honest about their feelings, the whole point of the second ship voyage to the Caribbean is misleading and pointless. I thought something more dramatic was going to happen. The book tried to do a little too much, and some elements weren't developed pace-wise to their full potential, which threw the book off a little, but you'll still find plenty of reasons to finish the book with a smile on your face.

*Why not try one of the earlier novels in the Mallory/Anderson Series, 'Gentle Rogue', Georgina and James' Story!

*And if pirates tales are your poison, try one of Johanna Lindsey's!:'A Pirate's Love'!

'At The Duke's Pleasure' by Tracy Anne Warren -Review-

   What an engaging novel! The beginning had me hooked and the ending solidified this author in my ever-growing list of 'author's to look-out for'. I enjoyed the zany plots by the heroine to get out of a marriage she thinks will break her, and the hero slowly letting go of his 'ducal mask' so that he can embrace his love before it's too late.
   Claire Marsden was scarcely out of the womb before her father and the previous Duke of Clybourne came to an 'understanding' concerning their eldest children. They were to be married, and all Claire's life, she had been brought up and prepared for her future life as a duchess. It isn't until she realizes her fiancee' has no intention of trying to make a love match from the union that she decides if she can't have his heart, she doesn't want his last name.
   Claire has to pull out all the stops if she wants to end this damnable marriage, but Edward Byron won't let her out of it that easy. He tries to be lenient with her as she acts out, but can't understand her maddening resistances to the marriage; or how she suddenly became the most important thing in his life.

[Read an excerpt: here]

   The duke's son was a pragmatic and mature youngster for all his age of 10 years old. The Byron family make the trip to Nottinghamshire to visit with their good friends, the Marsdens, and little Edward Byron is about to meet the newest addition to the Marsden family. A squirming, red-faced, screaming baby is laid in Edward's arms and a few seconds later, he is informed that he is holding his future wife. Shocked and dismayed, Edward already sees Claire Marsden as an 'obligation' and is set in his ways to do what is expected of him and leave it at that.
   Claire on the other hand, had different ideas when it came to what kind of marriage she wanted. She didn't just want to be wedded one day and carted off to the country to be forgotten the next. At the age of 16, during one of her rare visits with her betrothed, Claire overhears him talking about her (speaking of her as if she were a child 'barley out of leading strings' and his having no intention of falling in love with her) and her fairy tale romance is quickly spun into a horrid nightmare.
   At 33, Edward finally decides he is ready to follow up on his duty to marry Claire. He visits her at her home, is pleasantly surprised by her transformation into a full-grown and attractive woman, and equally stunned by her adamant desire not to be wed. He believes Clarie is upset about having to miss out on all the society functions because she was already promised to a duke and her father saw no reason to 'waste' money on a come-out. He speaks to Claire's father and volunteers to finance her trip to London. She will soon find herself in the whirlwind of the season and in a boat load of scandalous ploys aimed at extricating herself from an inevitably loveless marriage.
   Through Claire's numerous and notorious escapades during the season, Edward indulges her and is patient and lenient when most men would have buckled under the embarrassment and freed her from the marriage contract. Somewhere down the road, he finds himself falling in love with the woman he is to wed and isn't pleased about it. Like most men in historicals, Edward has some unconvincing 'reason' for wanting to keep love separate from marriage, but fate had other things in mind. His secret work for the crown as a spy soon puts his curious Claire in mortal danger, and he will have to find a way to face his feelings and allow happiness back into his life before it's too late.

Rating: 3 1/2 Red Roses

My Favorite Part of the Book: Is the beginning, where Edward and his family are visiting the Marsdens and he is given the newborn Claire to hold. You can sense the tension in the scene like something major is about to happen. Baby Claire was wailing and squirming and acting like any baby would, and Edward had some pretty funny commentary about that. Once the baby is settled in his arms, however, she quiets up and Edward beings to see the more charming qualities babies possess. It is all ruin though, when Edward is inform that the infant he is holding is his fiancee'. I couldn't stop laughing and marveling in the brilliance of this particular scene. And it happened right at the start, so the book had me hooked from page 1!

   Overall, this was an excellent read. I couldn't get over how marvelous it was in the beginning, and how fast I became a Tracy Anne Warren fan. Her writing style is superb and easy to follow. It had a flow to it that made each page turn itself. Some con's to this novel would have to be the annoying traits of some of the characters. Flaws are an important part to any novel's characters, but I found myself rolling my eyes at Claire's back and forth between whiny young miss and level-headed maverick. Her character was great at some points, a bit trying at others, and Edward's reason for staving off love wasn't overwhelmingly compelling, but at the end of the book, I was in love. I also enjoyed the ending as well. So many authors would have gone the other direction just to avoid cliche' and predictability, but the story was all the better for Warren's biting the bullet (kind of literally) and it was one of the high points in the story for me (a reason I may just have to re-read).

*And also check out the next book in the series, 'Wicked Delights In A Bridal Bed', Mallory's story! My Review can be found: here

-And check out my Interview with Tracy Anne Warren where she talks all about WDOABB and more!: here

 *Or give one of the other novels from  The Byrons of Braebourne Series a read!:

'Four Dukes And A Devil' (Novella)

'Tempted by His Kiss'

'Seduced By His Touch'