Showing posts with label favorite author. Show all posts
Showing posts with label favorite author. Show all posts

Thursday, April 2, 2026

HISTORICAL ROMANCE: The Queen and the Knave by Sarah M. Eden




ABOUT THE BOOK

Romance and mystery come full circle in the fifth and final book of Sarah M. Eden’s best-selling Victorian Proper Romance series. London, 1866 Móirín Donnelly has spent the last five years working in the shadows for the Dread Penny Society, a secret fraternity of penny dreadful authors who use their profits, influence, and street smarts to protect the poor and vulnerable of Victorian London. But spending so much of her life in secret is taking its toll on her soul—and her heart. When members of the Dread Penny Society begin disappearing, Móirín turns to her friend Detective Constable Fitzgerald Parkington for help. The two have developed a friendly rapport, and Móirín feels like she can trust him, though perhaps not with all of her secrets. Fitzgerald Parkington has a sixth sense when it comes to tracking down criminals, which is why he’s recently been transferred to the Detective Department at Scotland Yard. But when roadblocks and red tape keep him from tracking down the criminal mastermind known as “The Tempest,” he must rely on the one woman who has unexpectedly captured his heart—the brash, bold, and fiery Irish lass, Móirín Donnelly. As the Tempest’s deadly reach threatens to overwhelm all of London, Móirín and Fitz are caught in an elaborate game of cat and mouse that leads down back alleys, through dark London buildings, and right to the gates of Kensington Palace. Móirín has one chance to save Fitz and the Dread Penny Society from the Tempest, and she might have to sacrifice her one chance at love to do so.

REVIEW

In this final volume of The Dread Penny Society series, Moirin Donnelly, the Dread Master, and her Dread Penny Society face off with the Tempest and her chosen and forced allies. Things are looking pretty bad as it's clear the Tempest plans to destroy Moirin and her adopted family of allies. Even the help of Detective Constable Fitzgerald Parkington may not be enough to save the day. On top of the stress of trying to stop the Tempest and protect her people, Moirin finds herself falling in love with Parkington (Parky) despite her status as a wanted fugitive. As more of her people disappear, Moirin is forced to make painful choices including the possibility of the ultimate sacrifice. Mixed in with the story are two penny dreadful tales 'written' by characters in the story, including an amusing story about two seventy-something ladies solving a murder. The second penny dreadful story revolves around a queen who has been cursed by a sorceress and has only days to find a way to end the curse and stop the sorceress from taking control of her kingdom. The parallels to the main storyline are clearly related to themes of teamwork and loyalty. 

The book makes for an explosive and satisfying conclusion to a delightful series. The multiple characters came to feel like a family leaving me fully invested in what happened to them. In this volume, Moirin and Fitz take center stage making for both a tender love story and an exciting conclusion to the series. Moirin and Fitz make for an interesting couple with their difficult childhoods and different paths. Fitz's grandfather disappeared leaving him alone on the streets struggling to survive. Yet survive he does, leading to a career in law enforcement and a determination to find out what happened to his grandfather. Moirin, of course, grew up on the streets of Dublin, Ireland with her brother Brogan, having promised to take care of her brother. But having killed a man in self-defense, she had to flee when she was accused of murder. Falling in love with a cop was not in her plans, but hearts don't always do as commanded. 

A fabulous series full of great characters and plenty of peril and twists and turns. The author did a great job of pulling me through the series both with the enjoyable penny dreadful stories and the compelling storylines. A great series for readers who enjoy romance entwined with something gothic mystery and compelling conflict.
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Wednesday, February 28, 2024

HISTORICAL ROMANCE/MYSTERY: Protecting Her Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen

 


ABOUT THE BOOK

London, 1887 

When newly graduated medical doctor Charlotte Duvall receives word that her father has died, she immediately leaves America and returns home to see to her family’s estate. Among her father’s possessions is a box of her late mother’s letters, which feels like a balm to Charlotte’s grief-stricken heart. But the letters contain some inconsistencies that suggest there was more to her mother’s death than Charlotte had been told. She turns to the one man she trusts more than anyone—her treasured friend and director of London’s police force, John Ellis. John Ellis has harbored feelings for Charlotte ever since he first met her. Tucked into his heart are thoughts of her sharp mind, quick wit, and remarkable beauty. Though he has not yet found the courage to share his feelings with the young doctor, he is eager to help her in her hour of need. Investigating the details of a death was not how Charlotte imagined she would find love, but as she and John work to unravel a dark web of secrets and lies, she finds herself relying on him more and more—and opening her heart to him in the process. As the danger draws ever closer, John vows to do everything in his power to protect Charlotte from harm. But he fears protecting her heart might come at the cost of breaking his own.

REVIEW

I loved returning to the world of Amelia, Eva, and Charlotte, three cousins who continue the tradition of stepping out of traditional women's roles as members of the Notorious Hamptons. I'm only sad that the series seems to be over. In this final volume, Charlotte returns home for the funeral of her father after he sends her a letter indicating his efforts to find out what really lead to her mother's death many years earlier. As Charlotte follows in her father's steps, she quickly discovers that someone has something to hide and it puts herself and those she loves in danger. She turns to John Ellis, a friend and director of London's police force, for help. While searching for answers, John and Charlotte learn that their feelings for each other are stronger than they realized previously. The twists and turns of the story kept me turning the pages while the romantic moments made me smile. Neither John or Charlotte is willing at first to accept their feelings for each other as something that could lead to marriage, but it all happens so naturally that they are in deep almost before they realize it. It's delightful to read about Charlotte's cousins and their families again as well. Both an intriguing mystery and a sweet romance that satisfied this soul's reading desires.



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Thursday, January 11, 2024

A PROPER ROMANCE: The Bachelor and the Bride by Sarah M. Eden

The Bachelor and the Bride


ABOUT THE BOOK

London, 1866

Dr. Barnabus Milligan has always felt called to help people, whether that means setting a broken bone or rescuing the impoverished women of London from their desperate lives on the streets as part of his work with the Dread Penny Society.

Three years ago, he helped rescue Gemma Kincaid by secretly marrying her to protect her from her family of notorious grave robbers.

But six months after Gemma and Barnabus exchanged vows, she realized her love for her new husband was unrequited. To protect her heart, she left, telling Barnabus to contact her if his feelings for her ever grew beyond a sense of duty.

When Barnabus sends a letter to Gemma inviting her to return home, she hopes to find a true connection between them. But unfortunately, he only wants her help to foil the Kincaids, who have been terrorizing the boroughs of London, eager to gain both money and power.

Heartbroken, Gemma agrees to help, but she warns Barnabus that she will not stay for long, and once she goes, he'll never see her again.

Yet as the couple follows the clues that seem to connect the Kincaids to the Mastiff, the leader of London's criminal network, Gemma and Barnabus realize they might make a better match than either of them suspected. Perhaps the marriage that had once saved Gemma's life might now save Barnabus―and his lonely heart.

But before the once-confirmed bachelor can properly court his secret bride, they'll need to evade the dangerous forces that are drawing ever closer to the hopeful lovers and the entire Dread Penny Society itself.

REVIEW

The fourth book in The Dread Penny Society series find the society sinking deeper and deeper into trouble. As the society seeks to learn more about the Mastiff and his crew and their awful plans for the city, Dr. Barnabus Milligan faces a dilemma of his own. A secret marriage comes to light, bringing the woman he tried to save back into his life. Gemma left after discovering he didn't love her the way she loved him. But now, her life is at grave risk as her family of resurrectionists tries to bring her back into the fold of their criminal activity which seems to be connected to both the Mastiff and the Dread Penny Society. Integrated into the story are two penny dreadfuls 'written' by Dr. Milligan and 'Mr. King' another of the members of the Dread Penny Society. In this series, the fascinating way the penny dreadfuls intertwine with the main storyline, keeps one turning the pages. And this fourth book in a five book series builds the tension to a crescendo. By the time the book ends, the society is facing it's demise and a disaster than anything they could imagine. A couple of interesting twists at the end definitely surprised me and sent the story into a rather unusual direction. I love the way that the author blends her characters, setting, and stories (including the penny dreadful tales) until they are all part of one connected whole. 
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Wednesday, July 5, 2023

HISTORICAL ROMANCE: The Earl's Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed by Esther Hatch



REVIEW

In this second volume of the A Romance of Rank series, readers find Lord Riverton confronted by a conundrum. With a number of sisters, Samson feels overwhelmed by all their demands, especially Dru, who seems to be taking her resentment of men in general out on him. After being embarrassed in front of his love interest, Samson leaves his home in search of a refuge. He ends up at a cottage taking care of a very special flower named Fernadale. When the cottage owner's niece shows up to expecting to take care of Fernadale, Samson finds himself facing the woman he's loved for years, Catherine Wallace. A former friend, now governess because of the scandalous fall of her family, Samson and Catherine decide that as long as nobody knows that they are living in the same house unmarried, it's okay, especially since Samson is using a fake name. As they work to take care of the house and the flower, their feelings for each other grow stronger. The arrival of Catherine's sisters leaves Samson once again surrounded by females that he can't help but accommodate. But believing that Samson rejected the opportunity to marry her, Catherine refuses to give in to her feelings. Additional misunderstandings and an unfortunate series of events at the ball celebrating the engagement of one of Samson's sisters leave the two in misery. But Samson is determined not to lose Catherine again.

I thoroughly enjoyed Samson and Catherine's romance. Catherine's feistiness and Samson's easy going nature made for some amusing encounters, especially because of the fact that they grew up together and saw each other in many kinds of situations. But they've both changed a bit in the four years apart and so they still manage to surprise each other. One of the things I found most enjoyable was Catherine's frustration with Samson's tendency to put himself last. Samson is the very opposite of the puffed up, arrogant Earl, as he loves to make his family happy, and often takes care of his own needs without help from servants. It was impossible not to love Samson.  And the interactions between Catherine and Samson were often amusing as well. I had to laugh out loud when the proposal finally occurred and Samson offered to get Catherine a hippo in order to get her to marry him. As Catherine says, "Who mentions a hippopotamus when declaring love?"  

Overall, I found the story well-written and delightful to read.  If you enjoy clean, historical romance with a large dose of humor, I highly recommend this one.
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Friday, September 23, 2022

COVER REVEAL for A.L. Sowards upcoming A WALTZ WITH TRAITORS!

 I am delighted to be part of the cover reveal for the upcoming book of one of my favorite authors, A.L. Sowards. I'm always amazed at the stunning stories she writes and the incredible historical detail she includes.  She always manages to dig up fascinating events and stick her remarkable characters right into the middle of them. 

Her new book, A Waltz with Traitors comes out in March 2023, which is way too far away if you ask me.  But in the meantime, we can ponder this book blurb and admire the stunning cover.  



Sometimes the road to freedom is a six-thousand-mile-long railroad track. Sometimes the road to love is even longer.

The Former Russian Empire, 1918

Czech soldier Filip Sedlák never wanted to fight for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. So at the first opportunity, he defected to the Russians. Now he and others like him have formed the Czechoslovak Legion. Their goal: leave the chaos of Russia, sail to France, and help the Allies defeat the Central Powers, thereby toppling a hated empire and winning an independent Czechoslovakia.

With the fall of the tsar, Nadia Linskaya’s life is in ruins. Her family is dead, her lands are confiscated, and her aristocratic world is gone forever. But Nadia is determined to elude the Bolshevik agent who destroyed her family and find a way to survive in this changed world.

When Nadia takes refuge with the Czechoslovak Legion, the last thing she expects is an ally. But when Filip proposes a sham marriage to ensure her safe passage across Siberia, she takes it. Neither Filip nor Nadia expect real love, not when the legion has to take over the longest railroad in the world—and then hold it against Bolshevik counterattacks, partisan sabotage, Allied intrigue, and a set of brutal Siberian winters. At risk is the future of Czechoslovakia, the fate of Russia—and their hearts.




WOW! Isn't that cover amazing?! I love it!  I can't wait to get my hands on this one! I know that's a lot of exclamation marks but I'm so excited that I just can't help myself. :)
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Friday, April 8, 2022

BLOG TOUR and GIVEAWAY: BEFORE THE FORTRESS FALLS by A.L. Sowards

Before the Fortress Falls


ABOUT THE BOOK

When rumors reach Vienna that an attack by the Ottoman army is imminent, Wilhelm von Schor, one of the emperor’s courtiers, prepares to evacuate his family—including his sister, Katja. But Katja’s reluctance to leave the city and the people she loves so well grows the farther the family carriage gets from her childhood home. When she learns that another brother, Xavier, is returning to Vienna with his musketeers, she decides to remain behind and face the shadow of war.

Katja soon reunites with Xavier and also with Toby, a dear friend from childhood. As Katja and Toby renew their friendship, an element of attraction builds on the comradery of their youth, and they quickly realize they have found something worth fighting for: love. But all too soon, the Ottomans encircle the city, blanketing its inhabitants in fear. Katja, Toby, and Xavier must each fulfill their new roles if they are to survive. In the overcrowded hospitals, below ground in the countermines, and on the ramparts defending the city walls, the three must fight for love, family, faith, and the survival of their city and everyone inside.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A. L. Sowards is the author of multiple historical fiction novels, with settings spanning the globe from the fourteenth to twentieth centuries. Her stories have earned a Whitney Award, several Whitney Finalists positions, and a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal. She enjoys hiking and swimming, usually manages to keep up with the laundry, and loves it when someone else cooks dinner. She currently lives in the beautiful state of Alaska with her husband, three children, and an ever-growing library.

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REVIEW

A.L. Sowards has written another stunning historical fiction story with amazing characters, incredible historical detail, and a compelling, heart-breaking plot.  Katja and her brothers, Xavier, and Wilhelm get caught up in the siege of Vienna by the Ottoman empire in 1683.  While Wilhelm uses his diplomatic skills to get help for the besieged city, Xavier serves in the army desperately trying to hold off the highly skilled janissaries.  After deciding to stay in the city, Katja finds herself helping care for the wounded while falling in love with an old friend, Toby.  Toby works as a counterminer, helping defuse miners and fill in threatening mines. While the city's fate hangs in the balance so does the fate of Katja and her friends and family.

As in her previous works, Sowards provides an amazingly detailed glimpse into a time and place and what it may have been like to be there.  The suffering presented is heart-wrenching while the resilience and determination of various characters is inspiring.  The Christian faith of the characters shines through in the most difficult of times. Katja's and Toby's class-defying romance is both sweet and sad as it occurs during an incredibly difficult time for both of them.  Sowards' great storytelling presents readers with a story that touches the heart while sharing surprising connects to current events.  For those who enjoy reading historical fiction that leaves its mark on you when you are finished, I highly recommend Before the Fortress Falls.

BOOK TRAILER



FIND THE BOOK

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GIVEAWAY

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Monday, March 28, 2022

THE VALET'S SECRET by Josi Kilpack: a delightfully unexpected tale of romance between the classes with a Cinderella vibe.



ABOUT THE BOOK

As a once happily married woman, Rebecca Parker had a good life, but now widowed, working for a living, and her only child grown, she feels invisible, tired, and lonely. That is until the day a valet speeding by on a horse nearly runs her off the road. Mr. Malcolm Henry is apologetic, gentle, and handsome. She’s instantly drawn to him, which is why, rather than stopping him from kissing her, she kisses him back, reigniting a nearly forgotten passion. But love at first sight only happens in fairy tales—never to an ordinary woman like her.

She sees Mr. Henry again and feels the possibilities growing until, while working in the kitchens during a dinner party, she sees the valet she kissed sitting at the right hand of the baroness. Mr. Henry is not the earl’s valet; he is the heir to the earldom—Kenneth Winterton.

Heartbroken, angry, and betrayed, Rebecca does not trust Lord Winterton and refuses to accept his apology. But when Lord Winterton proves he is as kind and gentle as “Mr. Henry” was, she finds herself willing to give him a second chance. But will he take a chance on her? He needs a wife to help him in his place in society, and nothing about Rebecca’s life does that...except how he feels when she is with him.

Trust, love, loneliness, and passion collide in this story about a man who will risk it all to fight for the woman he loves and a woman who does not believe in fairy tales—until she finds herself living in one.

REVIEW

As with all her books, Josi Kilpack manages to make this historical romance based on a fairy tale feel fresh and new.  Kilpack creates such interesting characters who are fully fleshed out.  They have strengths and weaknesses, interesting personalities, and diverse backgrounds.  This story creates an interesting contrast between the two main characters while still finding common ground between them.  Rebecca Parker's background as her father's artistic assistant and former maid stands in stark contrast to Kenneth Winterton's background as a gentleman who has become heir to an earl.  According to their classes the two would have never conversed except as servant and gentleman.  But an inadvertent encounter changes both their lives.  In an attempt to ease the awkwardness of their meeting Kenneth lies about who he is, believing they aren't likely to meet again.  When they do meet again and discover the connection between them remains, things get more complicated, especially when Rebecca does eventually find out his correct name and position.  It seems their is no hope for a relationship between them despite their growing feelings for each other.  But perhaps an extra ounce of courage and help from a surprising source may pave the way for more than either could have ever dreamed.  

This Cinderella-based tale made for thoroughly enjoyable reading.  Both Kenneth and Rebecca are sympathetic characters who find themselves in difficult circumstances yet find joy in each other's company.  I also appreciated the fact that both characters are middle-aged and not expecting to find romance when they meet.  I found it refreshing to read about characters who come from more humble circumstances who struggle with their changes in circumstances but have the maturity to face them with courage and compassion.  Kenneth and Rebecca's love story is full of delightful details and smile-inducing moments.  A thoroughly engaging read for those who love clean historical romance as I do.
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Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Can love conquer all in the face of differing beliefs and a world turned upside down? Find out in Arlem Hawks stunning BEYOND THE LAVENDER FIELDS.

Beyond the Lavender Fields


ABOUT THE BOOK

1792, France

Rumors of revolution in Paris swirl in Marseille, a bustling port city in southern France. Gilles Étienne, a clerk at the local soap factory, thrives on the news. Committed to the cause of equality, liberty, and brotherhood, he and his friends plan to march to Paris to dethrone the monarchy. His plans are halted when he meets Marie-Caroline Daubin, the beautiful daughter of the owner of the factory.

A bourgeoise and a royalist, Marie-Caroline has been called home to Marseille to escape the unrest in Paris. She rebuffs Gilles’s efforts to charm her and boldly expresses her view that violently imposed freedom is not really freedom for all. As Marie-Caroline takes risks to follow her beliefs, Gilles catches her in a dangerous secret that could cost her and her family their lives. As Gilles and Marie-Caroline spend more time together, she questions her initial assumptions about Gilles and realizes that per-haps they have more in common than she thought.

As the spirit of revolution descends on Marseille, people are killed and buildings are ransacked and burned to the ground. Gilles must choose between supporting the political change he believes in and protecting those he loves. And Marie-Caroline must battle between standing up for what she feels is right and risking her family’s safety. With their lives and their nation in turmoil, both Gilles and Marie-Caroline wonder if a révolutionnaire and a royaliste can really be together in a world that forces people to choose sides.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ARLEM HAWKS began making up stories before she could write. Living all over the western United States and traveling around the world gave her a love of cultures and people and the stories they have to tell. She has a bachelor’s degree in communications, with an emphasis in print journalism, and she lives in Arizona with her husband three children.

REVIEW

Arlem Hawks hits it out of the park with her new historical fiction novel Beyond the Lavender Fields.  Her characters are fascinating and intriguing, her setting is superbly presented, and her plotting is magnificent.  I found this novel of the French Revolution to be utterly compelling.  I didn't read it quickly, the story has to many ins and outs and ups and downs to be read quickly.  But I found myself relishing each encounter between Gilles and Caroline as they got to know each other.  Not only was their relationship complicated from the beginning because of their political beliefs but the circumstances and people around them complicated things as well.  This made their love story all the sweeter and more intricate as they both come to terms with their feelings for each other as well as face the ongoing challenges of the revolution.  Caroline seems firmly placed on the royaliste side of things, but as I got to know her better I realized that it wasn't that simple.  Some of her actions were distinctly non-royaliste.  Gilles grows and develops as he realizes that his beliefs and actions don't always match up to the revolutionary zeal that he has long professed.  This stunning novel full of intricate details and sometimes shocking events took me on quite the journey. By the time I was finished reading, I considered Gilles and Caroline to be dear friends.  The mixing in of the French phrases and places made it feel all the more real.  I did appreciate the inclusion of a glossary of the French terms and a pronunciation guide for the names. The only thing missing was a good map or two.  This is a book that I will read again and again just to enjoy meeting old friends again.

BOOK TRAILER




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Thursday, January 20, 2022

CAN GIL AND EUDOCIA OVERTHROW A GOVERNMENT AND FIND LOVE? FIND OUT IN Of Sword and Shadow by A.L. Sowards

Of Sword and Shadow


ABOUT THE BOOK

Greece, 1379

She is known by many names, none of them her own. In truth, she is an unnamed slave, nothing more than a weapon in the hands of her owner in his attempts to provoke political mayhem. When she encounters a handsome young man while on an assignment, she thinks little of him—until he attempts to take what she has stolen. But in her line of work, failure is not an option.

Gillen is intrigued by the mysterious woman who thwarts his mission. But when his path crosses hers again, his intrigue turns to gratitude as the thief he comes to call Eudocia saves his life. The two form a bond of friendship and join forces to wrest control from a group of ruthless rulers. But as their camaraderie blossoms into something more, Gillen and Eudocia must fight for love even as they wage war for a better future.

REVIEW

A.L. Sowards' Of Sword and Shadow presents readers with a powerful tale of love and revolution in Medieval Greece.  A young with no name shares her story with readers through her compelling first-person narration.  As the story opens she's in the middle of stealing some important documents from an influential man.  That's when she first meets Gil, a young Basque looking for the documents she just stole.  Using her wits and training, she escapes him and returns to her owner, Thomas.  Using various names and disguises, our narrator has been working as a thief for her master for most of her life.  But after meeting Gil and his associates her life starts to change.  Gil treats her with kindness and caring even before she saves his life. 

Getting involved with Gil and the others proves to be a rather dangerous undertaking for "Eudocia" and her master, one with grave and unexpected consequences.  As Eudocia and Gil grow closer, the danger becomes ever greater until each of them are required to make difficult and life-altering choices.  Will their feelings survive the plot to overthrow the cities rulers or is there relationship doomed from the start?

The characters pulled me right into the story from the first moment they met the chemistry between them is clear.  While Gil and Eudocia are the main characters, the secondary characters provide a great deal of interesting development as well.  Even Eudocia's master isn't as clear cut of a villain as one might assume.  The historical detail and plot provide a fascinating background for Gil and Eudocia's story including the attempt to overthrow the Catalan rulers.  Not having read much about this time period I was intrigued by all the happenings and details included by the author.  I also appreciated the author's note at the end where she explains where she fictionalized things, sometimes for the story's sake and sometimes because of historical holes.  Ultimately though it was the characters that I fell in love with, which admittedly made reading a couple of parts challenging.  Sowards isn't afraid to put her characters through the wringer. Her action sequences kept me turning the pages as fast as I could get them read. A thoroughly-compelling, intriguing tale with incredible characters, great historical detail, and amazing plotting.  Highly recommended for those who enjoy historical romance.
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Thursday, December 16, 2021

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY: Of Daggers and Deception by A.L. Sowards



ABOUT THE BOOK

After years as a soldier and mercenary, Rasheed has retired from battle to run the bathhouse in Thebes with his friends Gillen and Eudocia. The simple life suits them, so when Venetian strangers come to town looking to hire the renowned crew, their answer is no. But when one of his friends is abducted, Rasheed is left with no choice but to take up his weapons and join forces with the Venetians, including the beautiful and clever Cecilia, whose betrothed has also been seized by the unknown foe. 

As the reluctant allies face ambushes and the looming threat of capture, Rasheed and Cecilia forge a surprising connection. But as the party races to rescue their friends, Rasheed discovers that nothing is as it seems. As his trust in Cecilia begins to waver, he realizes that in the end, they will both be forced to make a choice between love and duty.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A. L. Sowards is the author of multiple historical fiction novels, with settings spanning the globe from the fourteenth to twentieth centuries. Her stories have earned a Whitney Award, several Whitney Finalists positions, and a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal. She enjoys hiking and swimming, usually manages to keep up with the laundry, and loves it when someone else cooks dinner. She currently lives in the beautiful state of Alaska with her husband, three children, and an ever-growing library.

AUTHOR LINKS:


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REVIEW

A.L. Sowards' books have always impressed me with their incredible characterizations, compelling plots, and amazing historical detail.  Of Daggers and Deception grabbed me from the first page and didn't let go.  It didn't hurt that I'd met the characters before in Of Swords and Shadows.  Knowing something about the characters and their pasts had me invested in the story from the beginning.  While I haven't read a lot of stories set in medieval times, the details regarding clothing and lifestyles rang true to me.  The inclusion of historical events and people also adds to the realism.  I appreciated the explanation the author includes at the end regarding fact and fiction and the challenges of researching a time where known details are few and far between.

The characters of this story stand out with their strengths and weaknesses.  Telling the story through Rasheed's eyes focuses the story on his thoughts and feelings.  This allowed the author to keep secrets and through in surprises throughout the book as Rasheed experienced them.  While I already cared about Rasheed, Gil, Eudocia, and Sebastie, it wasn't hard to learn to care about Cecelia and Aban as well.  The thoughts and feelings expressed by each character as challenges were faced and losses experienced gave the book depth.  The story progresses rapidly once the kidnappings take place with lots of action.  But there also plenty of thoughtful moments that allow the reader to get to know the characters better and empathize with the difficult choices they must make.

As Rasheed and his companions chase after their abducted friend numerous obstacles face them.  Turkish pirates, betrayal by supposed allies, and the pain of past injuries.  Rasheed and Cecilia's relationship grows as they get to know each other on the journey, but circumstances don't favor a long lasting relationship as one of the kidnap victims is her betrothed.  This compelling story line carries the book forward, but the other story lines make the book even more compelling as Rasheed and his friends struggle to survive while trying to rescue their friend.

A wonderfully complex and fascinating tale beautifully told.  I highly recommend this book to all who enjoy great writing, compelling plots, and great characters.

GIVEAWAY

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Thursday, December 9, 2021

PROPER ROMANCE: The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen

The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart


ABOUT THE BOOK

Amelie Hampton is a hopeless romantic, which makes her the perfect columnist to answer lonely heart letters in The Marriage Gazette. When Amelie plays matchmaker with two anonymous lonely hearts, she also decides to secretly observe the couple's blind date. To her surprise, the man who appears for the rendezvous is Harold Radcliffe—a grieving widower and a member of Amelie's book club.

Police detective Michael Baker has been struggling ever since his best friend and brother-in-law dies in the line of fire. Because he knows the dangers of his job, he has vowed never to marry and subject a wife and family to the uncertainty of his profession. But when he meets Miss Hampton, he is captured by her innocence, beauty, and her quick mind.

When a woman's body is pulled from the river, Michael suspects the woman's husband—Harold Radcliffe—of foul play. Amelie refuses to believe that Harold is capable of such violence but agrees to help, imagining it will be like one of her favorite mystery novels. Her social connections and clever observations prove an asset to the case, and Amelie is determined to prove Mr. Radcliffe's innocence. But the more time Amelie and Michael spend together, the more they trust each other, and the more they realize they are a good team, maybe the perfect match.

They also realize that Mr. Radcliffe is hiding more than one secret, and when his attention turns toward Amelie, Michael knows he must put an end to this case before the woman he loves comes to harm.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

NANCY CAMPBELL ALLEN is the award-winning author of eighteen published novels and several novellas, which encompass a variety of genres, ranging from contemporary romantic suspense to historical fiction. Her most recent books, which include Regency, Victorian, and steampunk romance, are published under Shadow Mountain’s Proper Romance brand, and the What Happens in Venice novella series is part of the Timeless Romance Anthology collection published by Mirror Press. She has presented at numerous conferences and events since her initial publication in 1999.

Nancy loves to read, write, travel, and research, and enjoys spending time with family and friends. She nurtures a current obsession for true crime podcasts and is a news junkie. She and her husband have three children, and she lives in Ogden, Utah, with her family, one very large Siberian Husky named Thor, and an obnoxious but endearing YorkiePoo named Freya.

REVIEW

This romantic suspense follows the adventures of a rather naïve young matchmaker who inadvertently gets involved in solving a murder.  After Detective Michael Baker catches Amelia spying on a couple that she helped match, he enlists her help in getting close to Harold Radcliffe who he suspects of having murdered his wife.  Amelia reluctantly agrees hoping to prove Mr. Radcliffe's innocence.  What she doesn't expect is finding herself caught between Mr. Radcliffe's charm and Detective Baker's attractiveness.  When a second murder occurs, it becomes clear that the risk to both Amelia and Michael and their loved ones is also increasing.  If they don't find answers quickly, it may soon be too late.  

Amelie and Michael both make for delightful reading.  Amelie's romantic nature and touch of naivete made her a bit frustrating at times, but her spunk and determination balanced that out nicely.  Michael makes for a solid hero with his dedication to finding the truth and to his family.  The secondary characters were great also.  Radcliffe makes for an intriguing, dangerous foe while Amelie's cousins, Eva and Charlotte stand as interesting characters all on their own.  The plot takes several interesting twists along the way as does the romance.  Not only does this book work well as a romance, but it's a fantastic mystery as well with plenty of action and adventure along the way.  I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would love to run into these characters again. 




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Monday, December 6, 2021

BLOG TOUR & GIVEAWAY: An Accidental Romance by Karen Tuft



ABOUT THE BOOK

Rebecca Jennings's first London Season has been absolutely ruined, and one personal alone is responsible: Mr. Ben Fortescue. If her new neighbor hadn't startled her, she would never have broken her ankle, leaving her bored and frustrated at home in the country while her sister enters the London Season alone. Although, it was rather gallant of him to carry her home... For his part, Ben feels terrible about the role he played in Miss Rebecca Jennings's accident. In the days that follow their first disastrous meeting, he finds himself inexorably drawn to the surprising young woman—first out of guilt and then out of a stirring affection. But Ben hides a secret: he has not been completely forthright about his identity or about the dark secrets of his past that would make it impossible for romance to blossom with Miss Jennings. Despite his love for her, he knows he must let her go. With her ankle finally healed but her heart now broken, Rebecca is left with little choice but to throw herself into the Season. With eligible men circling this late addition to the Marriage Mat, it seems that Rebecca will have no shortage of suitors. If only her heart were free to give.

REVIEW

An Accidental Romance returns readers to the delightful Jennings family with eight children.  Rebecca Jennings is the youngest child and is eagerly anticipating her first London Season.  After injuring her ankle when her new neighbor Mr. Benjamin Fortescue startles her, Rebecca's well-laid plans are ruined.  In an effort to make up for his error, Mr. Fortescue starts visiting Rebecca almost daily.  As they get to know each other, their feelings for each other grow into something beyond friendship.  But Ben carries some heartache that leaves him reluctant to trust Rebecca's feelings, not to mention the guilt he feels for causing her injury in the first place.  When the opportunity to go to London reappears, Ben encourages Rebecca to go even though she's reluctant to leave him.  Can their relationship survive Ben's past and Rebecca's new present circumstances?  Or will a handsome new suitor change things for both of them?

Karen Tuft's delightful romance kept me engrossed from beginning to end.  Rebecca and Ben both make for sympathetic characters that I quickly grew to love.  And my heart felt for them as they faced struggles related to Ben's past experiences.  The scenes with the children were especially enjoyable.  And it was fun to read about other members of the Jennings clan whose stories have been previously shared.  The character development is superb and I enjoyed following the developing relationships between all the various characters.  I thoroughly enjoyed this latest volume in the Jennings Family series and look forward to the possibility of more to come.

GIVEAWAY

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Tuesday, October 26, 2021

REGENCY ROMANCE: Charming Artemis by Sarah M. Eden



ABOUT THE BOOK

Charlie Jonquil is mild-mannered and kind―except when it comes to his one true adversary, Artemis Lancaster. Though Charlie has a brilliant mind for mathematics, Artemis poses a problem he can't seem to comprehend: how can one be so lovely and so infuriating? A party in London brings him into the company of the maddening young lady, and it is clear that Charlie's disdain is mutual. But when an unfortunate incident between the pair involving Charlie's jacket and a glass of raspberry shrub leads to scandal, the sworn enemies are left with only two options: be ruined or be married.

So it is that Artemis finds herself in a most outrageous predicament: she must wed a gentleman she's hated for years―and she pledges to avoid him at all costs. But it is only when they enter into this mockery of a marriage that Charlie and Artemis learn things are not as simple as they once appeared. As their tentative ceasefire leads to friendship, it seems their marriage born of desperation might lead them to a love that was destined to be.

REVIEW

Artemis Lancaster and Charlie Jonquil do not get along.  They never have since the day they met at a house party at Charlie's family home.  But with friends in common they can't avoid each other entirely.  Things take a stunning turn when an unfortunate incident involving two glasses of raspberry shrub and Charlie's apparel forces the two to marry.  The first weeks of their marriage don't offer much hope of either one finding happiness.  Artemis has been forced to leave London and a search for the man whose kindness touched her life as a child, but whose name she doesn't know.  And Charlie's planned career and future seems to be in the toilet. But as Artemis and Charlie slowly try to improve their relationship, they start to see parts of each other that they like and admire.  But life's challenges intervene and threaten their budding relationship.  Can they find a way to address their issues before it's too late?

Sarah Eden has created a masterpiece of a finale for her Jonquil and Lancaster series.  While I'm sad to say goodbye to characters I've grown to love, I couldn't have asked for a better ending.  I found myself laughing and crying and wanting to hug these characters through the ups and downs.  Not only is Artemis and Charlie's story settled, but other story lines are brought to a great conclusion.  Some plot elements ended up being a surprise and a few unexpected characters show up to my great delight.  I especially loved the scenes with the children.  And the dialogue was fantastic and enjoyable.  I can't say enough good things about Sarah Eden and her fantastic Jonquil and Lancaster series.  If you haven't read them, I highly, highly recommend them.

GIVEAWAY

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Tuesday, October 5, 2021

A PROPER ROMANCE : Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts by Nancy Campbell Allen



ABOUT THE BOOK

A steampunk retelling of Cinderella.

Emmeline O’Shea has been an outspoken advocate for the shapeshifter community, which has come under unjust attack from a political body known as the PSRC (Predatory Shifter Regulations Committee), and her robust efforts have landed her a prestigious position as the spokesperson for the International Shifter Rights Organization. She has been selected to give the final address in Scotland before they vote on legislation that will grant protective rights to the shifter community. Because she is fundamentally changing the laws, she is also receiving death threats.

Oliver Reed is a by-the-book detective-inspector who has dealt with Emme’s borderline-illegal activism in the past, and there is little love lost between the two. When his superior tasks Oliver with guarding Emme around the clock to keep her safe until the summit is over, he is frustrated. He has several open cases requiring his attention, and his spare time is occupied with chasing down leads about the whereabouts of his brother, Lawrence, a rogue vampire bent on causing trouble in Scotland.

When their airship is hijacked, Emme and Oliver are forced to parachute away before they exit British soil. Together the pair must make their way to Edinburgh so as not to miss the summit meeting where Emme will be key in helping to pass legislation that will disband the corrupt PSRC. But between her vindictive sister and Oliver’s rogue vampire brother, they face danger at every turn, not to mention dealing with their growing attraction for each other.

When Emme is kidnapped – Oliver must find her before it’s too late – and the summit ends at midnight.

REVIEW

I have absolutely adored Allen's Steampunk Proper Romance series.  I am really sad to see it end, but this book definitely lives up to the rest of the series.  Oliver Reed works for Scotland Yard as an Detective-Inspector.  His job brings him into contact with Emmeline O'Shea who helps lead the movement to give shape-shifters rights under the law.  Unfortunately, sometimes the rallies and protests she lead get out of control and turn violent.  Emme and Oliver have been "enemies" for quite some time until Emme receives a nasty letter that requires Oliver to become her bodyguard until the writer is found.  While this is annoying to Emme, she finds herself enjoying Oliver's company more than she imagined.  But her ongoing efforts to help the shifters and her important upcoming speech at an international summit on shifter rights put her squarely in the sights of someone with horrible motives. Despite Oliver's best efforts, they get separated and must face their own familial enemies.  While the cause of shifter rights survive without Emme's speech?  Will Oliver and Emme meet again?  Or will all their efforts have been for naught.

Not only are Emme and Oliver delightful characters who I thoroughly enjoyed reading about, but they also provide a very entertaining romance full of witty banter and plenty of death-defying action.  I also enjoyed the appearance of their friends from the previous books.  The action keeps the book moving forward at a rapid pace, leaving the reader on the edge of his/her seat.  The steampunk details related to automatons, cars, and airships add to the atmosphere and excitement of the book.  All in all a wonderful conclusion to an awesome series that I heartily recommend. 
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Tuesday, August 24, 2021

The GENTLEMAN AND THE THIEF by Sarah M. Eden



ABOUT THE BOOK

From the moment Hollis Darby meets Ana Newport, he's smitten. Even though he's from a wealthy, established family and she isn't, he wishes he could have a life with her by his side. But Hollis has a secret: the deep coffers that have kept his family afloat for generations are bare, so he supports himself by writing penny dreadfuls under a pseudonym. If not for the income from his novels, he would be broke.

Ana Newport also has a secret. Though she once had a place in society thanks to her father's business, bankruptcy and scandal reduced the family fortune to nothing more than a crumbling town house. So Ana teaches music during the day, and at night she assumes the identity of the "Phantom Fox." She breaks into the homes of the wealthy to reclaim treasures she feels were unjustly stolen from her family when they were struggling.

When Hollis's brother needs to hire a music tutor for his daughter, Hollis recommends Ana, giving him a chance to spend time with her. Ana needs the income and is eager for the opportunity to get to know the enigmatic gentleman. What neither of them expects is how difficult it will be to keep their respective secrets from each other.

When a spree of robberies rocks the city, Ana and Hollis join forces to solve the crimes, but working together deepens the affection between them. After all, who better to save the day than a gentleman and a thief?

REVIEW

Sarah Eden has a knack for great dialogue and great characters.  I think that's what I enjoy the most about her stories.  Hollis Darby and Ana Newport are both unusual characters, which made it delightful to read about them.  Hollis appears to be a gentleman in every way and yet he has interests and activities that upper level society would not approve of in the slightest.  He writes penny dreadfuls, printed stories that society considers "low" literature but which many people read and enjoy.  He also belongs to a secret society that works to help the poor and needy, especially those in trouble with a criminal mastermind known as the Mastiff.  Ana's family has fallen from grace as a result of her father's partner's misconduct.  She's turned to thievery in order to retrieve items of value to her that were stolen from her family after their fall.  It turns out that Hollis and Ana have more in common than either one imagined and their going to need each other in order to take down a dangerous gambling ring that endangers Hollis's family as well as others.

Sarah Eden has written a marvelous book with lots of fun interactions between the characters as well as shorter "penny dreadful" like stories mixed in with the Hollis's and Ana's story.  The settings are beautifully described and the characters are fascinating.  One of the things that I enjoyed most about this story is the fact that most of the characters aren't upper class.  Many of the regencies I've read focus on the upper classes.  It's nice to read one that focuses on the struggles and challenges of life for those who aren't well off.  Although it's heartbreaking as well to read about children being bought and sold and turned into thieves.  Sarah Eden has written another superb tale well worth reading again and again.
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Thursday, September 24, 2020

BLOG TOUR w/ GIVEAWAY : Forget Me Not by Sarah M. Eden

 
 
ABOUT THE BOOK
 
Nottinghamshire, 1785

Julia Cummings has long been acquainted with loss-her mother, her brother, her sister, her friend, all gone too soon. But the loss that pushed her grief to the limit as a young girl was that of her best friend, Lucas Jonquil, who abandoned her without looking back. Now, eight years later, Lucas has returned to Lampton Park, and Julia has steeled herself-she will never forgive the man who broke her heart.

After losing too many of his friends and family to early deaths, Lucas vowed to live life to the fullest. And after traversing the world, he has returned from his adventures to find his family and home as he left them-except for Julia. The little girl he left behind has blossomed into a captivating lady, a lady who makes it clear she despises him. With little hope of reconciliation, the former friends are blindsided when their parents make a shocking announcement. Lucas and Julia have been betrothed without their knowledge and are to marry immediately. Now Lucas must rely on the help of his closest friends to win the heart of a lady who loathes him-a lady he’s coming to love more deeply every day.

REVIEW

I adore Sarah Eden's Jonquil brothers series.  I've so enjoyed getting to know each of the seven brothers and reading about how they found love.  I look forward to reading Charlie's story. So, I was delighted to pick up this book that tells the story of brothers' parents, Julia (Mater) and Lucas.  I did notice that this one which still containing plenty of humor also has some really serious parts.  Julia and Lucas have a complicated history.  They were once dear friends, but Julia feels like Lucas abandoned her by claiming his inheritance when he did.  After so many broken promises, Julia is reluctant to trust Lucas again.  Lucas, however, has no clue why Julia pushes him away.  Things get even more complicated when their parents insist they get married.  Julia feels betrayed and Lucas has no idea how to fix their relationship. Luckily, the pair has help in the form of Lucas's group of friends known as the Gents.  With the help of these friends, Lucas and Julia manage to rebuild their relationship and find joy in each other once more. Having read the Jonquil boys books, I knew this would happen, but it was enjoyably sweet to read about it happening.  As always, Eden creates her setting, characters, and plot beautifully.  A wonderful start to a series that I have a feeling I will enjoy as much as I have the Jonquil brothers series.
 
GIVEAWAY
 

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