Confessions of an Improper Bride by Jennifer Haymore

Goodreads Description:

TWICE TEMPTED

Serena Donovan left London six years ago, her heart broken and her reputation ruined by devilishly handsome Jonathan Dane. Now, with her family's future in peril, she reluctantly agrees to return to England and assume her late twin's identity. The price? Marry a man she doesn't love and spend the rest of her days living a lie.

Jonathan Dane, Earl of Stratford, has become an incorrigible rake, drinking, gambling-and trying to forget Serena Donovan. Yet the moment he's introduced to the prim and proper "Meg", he recognizes the sensual young woman who captured his heart. Haunted by his past mistakes, he refuses to lose Serena again. But convincing her to trust him is no easy task. Claiming his lost love means exposing the truth and destroying the life Serena has sacrificed everything to rebuild. With the future of all the Donovans at stake, and their undying passion capable of triggering yet another scandal, how much will Jonathan and Serena risk for a chance at true love?

My Rating:

My Review:


This book answered all the questions I formed when I read the second book prior to this book.  However, this book created a few questions that weren't answered in the second book and I'd love to know the answers to!

First, the last conversation Serena and Jonathan have with the capital some things are revealed however they aren't even touched in the second book and so I want to know what happens with him and his complications.  I also was very disappointed with Meg's death.  The author makes a big deal about them being able to see land when the storm hits that drags Meg out to sea.  I can't wait to read the third book about the captain and someone who looks like Meg!

Serena's trying to live a lie is interesting to read and seeing her struggle is a good read however it got boring sometimes.  Her internal struggle between love and honor are again interesting to read but are beat to death and drawn out to the point where I wanted to just throw the book.  But I didn't because there were some redeeming qualities to the story.  Like Phoebe's romance and rebellion and how that shows Serena what she has to do with her internal struggle.  I love her Aunt, who is so catting it's fun to read and I loved Jonathan's first cousin and I hope there is a book about her and her finding love! I will be reading the 3rd book just so I can see if Meg resurfaces and if so what happened to her and if the captain will have a happily ever after!

Beware a Scots Revenge by Sabrina Jeffries

Goodreads Description:

"Someone's going to call your bluff someday, Venetia you'd better hope it's not a handsome man." Mrs. Charlotte Harris, Headmistress 

Lady Venetia Campbell's visit to her childhood home in Scotland takes a dramatic turn when she's kidnapped at pistol point by her father's sworn enemy. Sir Lachlan Ross is widely feared in his guise as The Scottish Scourge, but Venetia remembers her former neighbor as a handsome youth whose attentions she craved. Now a wickedly sexy man, Lachlan's appeal is even more intoxicating... and much more dangerous. Though Lachlan tries to treat her as his foe, his scorching kisses tell another story. And despite his plan to use her as a weapon against her father, Venetia is determined that Lachlan's lust for revenge will be trumped by an even more powerful desire....

My Rating:

My Review:

All the previous books hinted to this book and the Scotland Scourge.  Venetia Campbell was one of Mrs. Harris' students and after quite a few seasons her father is fed up.  She makes a deal with her father to let her go to Scotland for a Peer Ball and that she promises to accept a proposal with in the year.  Her father agrees, under the impression that the Scourge is dead.  Her father knows more about the Scourge then he leads on.  Through out the book, Sir Lachlan Ross teaches Venetia about what has been happening in Scotland since she left as a child and in return Venetia teaches Lachlan how to feel and love again.  I felt horrible for Lachlan and all he's lost and suffered then near the end I felt so bad for Venetia and her family and all they've suffered as well.  I was so happy to see all ends well in the end, as I absolutely HAVE to have a happily ever after ending.  There were quite a few bumps and bruises along the way though and that just made it even better to read.  Highly recommend, especially if you have read the others in this series. Now if only we knew who Cousin Michael was!

The School for Heiresses by Sabrina Jeffries, Liz Carlyle, Julia London, and Renee Bernard

Goodreads Description:

At the School for Heiresses, the lessons go far beyond etiquette and needlepoint. In addition to teaching her students how to avoid fortune hunters, headmistress and founder Charlotte Harris proposes the radical notion that women of means need not shackle themselves to men at all -- unless they find a suitable, desirable mate. So lessons in the fine art of acquiring a loving and passionate husband are part of the curriculum at this highly unusual school. And as the holidays approach, Mrs. Harris sends her young ladies home with personally tailored lessons to work on. Will they return any closer to finding the perfect husband? 

Join this dazzling roster of authors as they put their own spin on the School for Heiresses in four spirited tales of passion!

My Rating:

My Review:

I enjoyed this anthology, which is rare for me because I usually don't enjoy them as much.  There were 4 stories each by a different author but all involving a student of Mrs. Harris.  I absolutely loved Sabrina Jeffries because I wanted to know what happened to Colin Hunt from his introduction in a previous story.  I also highly enjoyed Liz Carlyle and Julia London's story. They kept to Sabrina Jeffries world very well and I hardly noticed that they were written by different authors.  I did not enjoy Renee Bernard's as much however.  I found myself wandering and putting it down a lot.  I just wasn't drawn into the story or found myself caring much about the romance.  It wasn't a bad story but just not something I would have picked up otherwise.  I definitely recommend picking this book up though just so you can get some more heiress action!

How to Woo A Reluctant Lady by Sabrina Jeffries

Goodreads Description:

The third novel in Sabrina Jeffries's “Hellions of Hallstead Hall” series, featuring the independent and talented Lady Minerva Sharpe. 

When a charming rogue proposes she marry him to meet her grandmother's ultimatum, the Sharpe clan's strong-willed sister makes a tempting counter-offer that preserves her inheritance and ignites his imagination. 

Lady Minerva Sharpe has the perfect plan to thwart her grandmother's demands: become engaged to a rogue! Surely Gran would rather release her inheritance than see her wed a scoundrel. And who better to play the part of Minerva's would-be husband than wild barrister Giles Masters, the very inspiration for the handsome spy in the popular Gothic novels she writes? The memory of his passionate kiss on her nineteenth birthday has lingered in Minerva's imagination, though she has no intention of really falling for such a rakehell, much less marrying him. Little does she know, he really is a covert government operative. When they team up to investigate the mystery behind her parents' deaths, their fake betrothal leads to red-hot desire. Then Minerva discovers Giles's secret double life, and he must use all the cunning tricks of his trade to find his way back into her heart.

My Rating:

My Review:

Great third book of the Hellions of Halstead Hall.  Minerva's story didn't disappoint and I loved how she made Giles work for her affection and her agreement to marry him.  I enjoyed Minerva's spirit and personality in the other books and was happy to read more about her and the depth of her feelings.  I also enjoyed the advances the family has made to find out what happened with their parents and I love the ending with their cousin!  Giles had a rough life as well and has a strong sense of justice, to the point of being an informant for Home Office.  He decides to stop when his life as a barrista get's noticed and he has a chance to been a Kings Council, much like a prosecutor in the US. Minerva challenges all he believes is true about love and how one lives ones life.  Their romance is trying at times and so fulfilling in the end!  Glad I read this and I can not wait to get the fourth!

Much Ado About Rogues by Kasey Michaels

Goodreads Description:

Meet the Blackthorn Brothers—three unrepentant scoundrels infamous for being mad, bad and perilous to love. 

Who is the darkly handsome Don John “Black Jack” Blackthorn? With his air of mystery and menace, the whispers about him hint of highwayman or government agent or even dark prince. But no one knows what it is Black Jack does… or how dangerous he can truly be. Now Jack’s mentor has disappeared, and Jack must track him down before it’s too late. His unlikely help: the man’s daughter—the very woman Jack had once wooed and betrayed. 

Lady Tess Fonteneau knows more about the fine art of clandestine activities—and about the mysterious Mr. Blackthorn—than he realizes. As their journey leads them on the adventure of a lifetime, their reunion is fraught with passion, high-stakes danger and the one twist of fate Jack never saw coming…

My Rating:

My Review:

I was happy to read this book and have all my questions answered.  I however thought that a lot of it could have been done differently.  The whole middle was page after page of planning and rehashing emotions and got tedious and annoying at points.  I felt that Jack changed too much in this book from the first two. If he was going to become as happy a person in this book, he should have shown more of that in the other two books so as to not shock and also to make his personality more believable in this book.  I do have to say that after the first part of the book's setting up the the story and the second part being annoyingly repetitive the last was awesome!  I loved how Jack fixes everything for the family and I love how he tricks him mom.  I really enjoyed the interactions between Tess and Jack.  Their history is intense and complicated and their future is equally intense and complicated.  It's a good read and must read if you've read the other two books!  It answers ALL the questions!

On The Way To The Wedding by Julia Quinn

Goodreads Description:

A funny thing happened... 

Unlike most men of his acquaintance, Gregory Bridgerton believes in true love. And he is convinced that when he finds the woman of his dreams, he will know in an instant that she is the one. And that is exactly what happened. Except... 

She wasn't the one. In fact, the ravishing Miss Hermione Watson is in love with another. But her best friend, the ever-practical Lady Lucinda Abernathy, wants to save Hermione from a disastrous alliance, so she offers to help Gregory win her over. But in the process, Lucy falls in love. With Gregory! Except... 

Lucy is engaged. And her uncle is not inclined to let her back out of the betrothal, even once Gregory comes to his senses and realizes that it is Lucy, with her sharp wit and sunny smile, who makes his heart sing. And now, on the way to the wedding, Gregory must risk everything to ensure that when it comes time to kiss the bride, he is the only man standing at the altar...

My Rating:

My Review:

The way this was written, I was prepared for a 'bad' unexpected ending.  However I loved the twist that made this a Happily Ever After Ending!  Gregory's up front acceptance that love matches exist and his search for just that is something different then the usual hero's views and opinions on love an marriage.  I love how everyone seemed to be in love with the wrong person except of course the heroine, Lucy.  Lucy always says sorry and smooths things over for everyone else even at her own expense.  She isn't however one of those annoying simpering ladies that let people walk all over her.  She seems to have spirit and speaks her mind when she's nothing thing to curb her tongue.  Lucy's best friend Hermione is a beauty and every man 'falls in love' with her and Gregory is no exception.  When Hermione becomes engaged unexpectedly and scandalously to Lucy's brother, Gregory realizes he wasn't in love with her.  Lucy and Gregory's romance is subtle and sweet, nothing hot or heavy in this book!   Lucy's dedication to her family name is almost the end to their romance but Gregory being a Bridgerton, doesn't give up and fixes her 'problem'.    I loved the epilogue and it made me chuckle.  I'm sad to see the series end and of course want more, maybe a spin off of some sorts?!  One can home!  Good read either way and if you've read the others in the series, you can't stop with out reading this last installment!

A Midsummer Night's Sin by Kasey Michaels

Goodreads Description:

Meet the Blackthorn Brothers—three unrepentant scoundrels infamous for being mad, bad and perilous to love.

Handsome as the devil and twice as tempting, Robin "Puck" Blackthorn lives for the pleasures of the moment. His only rule—never dally with an innocent woman. But when an encounter at a masquerade ball leaves him coveting the one woman who refuses to succumb to his charms, Puck realizes that some rules were made to be broken….

Scandalized to discover that the masked man with whom she'd shared a dance—and a forbidden embrace—is in fact the ton's most celebrated rake, Regina Hackett vows to keep her distance. Yet when her cousin vanishes, it is to Puck that Regina must turn. And as they embark on a dangerous journey through London's darkest alleys, Regina will discover that beneath Puck's roguish facade lies a man who will stop at nothing to protect her—or to convince her to take a chance on an unrepentant sinner.

My Rating:

My Review:

It had been a while since I read the first in this series but within a few chapters I was able to recall all in info I could from the first book and was excited with how this book was starting out.  Puck lived it up in France and when he returned to London all he wanted was some fun.  He blacked mailed Spies for the crown to get introductions and invitations to balls, the first being a masquerade.  Well if he was looking for something to living up his days he found it at that ball!  Regina was begged by her cousin to attend a masquerade and against her better judgement she agreed.  After an intriguing experience with a masked rogue, Regina lives to regret her agreement.  Her cousin is kidnapped and her rogue is the only one who can help her.  Puck just couldn't say no to Regina and agreed to help her find her cousin.  The mystery and romance that ensues is wonderful.  The mystery takes a few unexpected turns and the romance is forbidden and so of course fun to read about! I loved seeing Black Jack and getting some hints about him and I can not wait to read his story!  I also got hooked by the few teasing hints about their father and a meeting he wants to have with the boys.  I can only speculate as to what will happen with that!  I will definitely be grabbing up the next in the series asap!

A Hellion in Her Bed by Sabrina Jeffries

Goodreads Description:

Furious at his grandmother’s ultimatum to marry or lose his inheritance, Lord Jarret Sharpe wagers his luck—and his heart—at the card table against a most unlikely opponent.Mired in scandal after his parents’ mysterious deaths, notorious gambler Lord Jarret Sharpe agrees to tamely run the family brewery for a year if his Machiavellian grandmother rescinds her ultimatum that he marry. But the gambler in him can’t resist when beguiling Annabel Lake proposes a wager. If she wins their card game, he must help save her family’s foundering brewery. But if he wins, she must spend a night in his bed. The outcome sets off a chain of events that threatens to destroy all his plans . . . and unveils the secret Annabel has held for so long. When Jarret discovers the darker reason behind her wager, he forces her into another one—and this time he intends to win not just her body, but her heart.

My Rating

My Review:

4 1/2 out of 5

I loved how this book kept me on my toes!  When you think you understand everything, you have some new piece of information to confuse you!  I loved the twist in the mystery of how the Sharpe parents died and I can't wait to read the next book if for not other reason then to see what new developments take place.  Great bit of mystery that subplot is!  The romance was very well written and felt like something that was plausible.  There's nothing I hate more then a romance that is so over the top you just think there is no way that could happen in real life!  I mean the point of reading is to let the fantasy take you over and if it's not plausible it ruins the illusion.  

Jarret thinks he's not good at anything for gambling and wenching, until Annabel comes into his life and she shows him different!  Jarret pretends he's not a gentleman but whenever he's put to prove he's a scoundrel he show's his real colors and his gentlemanly manners.  Annabel will do anything to thank her brother for helping her after a foolish decision when she's 17 changes her life.  To save the family brewery she puts her reputation on the life to get Jarret to agree to help.  The both get more then they bargain for!  I am very glad I read this and I can't wait to read Minerva's Story next!

Only a Duke will Do by Sabrina Jeffries

Goodreads Description:

Louisa North likes her independence very much, despite her royal father’s protests. So when Simon Tremaine, the dashing Duke of Foxmoor, whom she once loved — and had exiled from England — returns bent on marrying her, she’s skeptical. The fire between them burns as hot as ever, but when Simon’s ulterior motive for marriage is exposed, along with the deeply buried secrets of his past, Louisa vows to make him pay . . . and the price will be his heart.

My Rating:

My Review:


I enjoyed this book a lot more then I did the first in the series.  As I expected I felt the first book had too much in back story and it detracted from getting drawn into the story.  Not a problem with this story.

Louisa is the most stubborn, independent, and most intelligent heroine I've read about in a very long time.  She put Simon, Duke of Foxmoor through a ton of ropes to get his happy ever ending!  Simon had a rough childhood thanks to his grandfather's 'teachings'.  Louisa has to overcome her broken heart from when Simon betrayed her 7 years prior and her fear of having children.  A lot happened in the past and through out this book, they both have to overcome their past issues.  I also enjoyed seeing the political mechanics and see Simon find his feelings again!

GIVEAWAY WINNERS!!!: Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor by Lisa Kleypas

Here are the details of the Giveaway

Danielle Wegner

Regina Fletcher

D.B. Reynolds

Winners Please Email Me @ BrittanyG@Gmail.Com with your address so I can send you your free copy of Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor By Lisa Kleypas!

The Forgiven Duke by Jamie Carie

Goodreads Description:

Tethered by her impulsive promise to marry Lord John Lemon - the path of least resistance - Alexandria Featherstone sets off toward Iceland in search of her parents with a leaden heart. A glimpse of her guardian, the Duke of St. Easton - the path less traveled by - on Dublin’s shore still haunts her.

Will he come after her? Will he drag her back to London, quelling her mission to rescue her treasure-seeking parents, or might he decide to throw caution to the wind and choose Foy Pour Devoir: “Faith for Duty,” the St. Easton motto. The Featherstone motto Valens et Volens: “Willing and Able,” beats in her heart and thrums through her veins. She will find her parents and find their love, no matter the cost.

The powerful yet wing-clipped Duke of St. Easton has never known the challenge that has become his life since hearing his ward’s name. Alexandria Featherstone will be the life or the death of him. Only time and God’s plan will reveal just how much this man can endure for the prize of love.

My Rating:

My Review:


I am not a fan of cliffhangers and excessive high suspension an action.  I also am not a fan of highly religious books.  This book has a lot of high suspense scenes and in my opinion some of which didn't need to be done.  The religion aspect of this book is not stuffed in the readers faces, for which I appreciate and thus don't mind so much being in the book.  I did see how the author thought Suspense and action necessary though and I can appreciate how it added certain depth and excitement to the story line.

I did enjoy this second installment of the series and how the story progressed.   Alexandria's bravery and love for her parents is admirable though I think unwarranted since they treated her so horribly.  John Lemon slowly but surely shows his true colors and I'm thankful Alexandria sees them and decides not to marry him.  The Duke never stops trying to save Alexandria, and even though he has many trials in this book and man does he have a ton of crap fall on him in this book.  I loved the ending and I can not wait to read the last installment and Alexandria and the Dukes search for Alexandria's parents.

Her Sudden Groom By Rose Gordon

Goodreads Description:

The overly scientific, always respectable and socially awkward Alexander Banks has just been informed his name resides on a betrothal agreement right above the name of the worst chit in all of England. With a loophole that allows him to marry another without consequence before the thirtieth anniversary of his birth, he has only four weeks to find another woman and make her his wife.

My Rating:

My Review:


I have read only one other book from Rose Gordon and I absolutely LOVED it so I wanted to see if it was a fluke or if she was just an all around awesome author.  I have come to the conclusion that she is just an awesome writer.

In this the first in her Groom series, Alexander Banks was just informed by his dieing father that he has to marry in less then a month a bride of his choosing or marry the horrible Lady Olivia through a bridal contract made when they were infants.  Alex is a scientist and all his thoughts seem to work around science until he meet Caroline Sinclair, cousin to his betrothed.

I loved the interactions between Caroline and Alex.  I enjoyed how awkward Alex was and how shy but intelligent Caroline was.  I also really enjoyed how the author intermingled her two series.  It was done in a clever way and added depth and back story with out having to add it all into one book.  It made room for the primary story line and laying down the paths for the future stories!  The many facets of the story line were fantastic and made the plot original and paced in a way to not get boring.  I highly recommend and I can't wait to read the next in the series.

The Truth about Lord Stoneville by Sabrina Jeffries

Goodreads Description:

HELLIONS OF HALSTEAD HALL 
They're the scandalous Sharpes, five hell-raising siblings tainted by a shocking family legacy. Now each faces a daunting ultimatum: marry by year's end -- or kiss their inheritance good-bye. 

In the two decades since a tragic "accident" took the lives of his parents, Oliver Sharpe, the Marquess of Stoneville, has survived the scandal surrounding that fateful night by living as an unrepentant rakehell. And with his grandmother vowing to disinherit him if he doesn't settle down and wed, he plans to fulfill the bargain in true Sharpe style -- by bringing home a fake fiancée from a brothel! But his scheme is derailed when he rescues an American beauty in a dire predicament instead. Maria Butterfield came to London to track down her groom-to-be, who's gone missing, but her engagement won't stop Oliver from getting what he wants: her, in his bed. His rebellious masquerade may call his grandmother's bluff , but it's soon made all too real -- by a love that tempts him to be a hellion no more.

My Rating:

My Review:

I really enjoyed this book, I actually rate it 4 1/2 out of 5.  I absolutely LOVE Oliver's family and felt so sad for what he had to endure as a young man.  His Gran in particular is a very witty clever woman!  Maria and her cousin are American's in search of her Fiance, Nathan.  Maria's father was owner of a Shipping company and has passed away and so Maria must find Nathan so they can get married so she can have access to her money.  She finds Nathans satchel and while following it she and her cousin find themselves in front of a Brothel.  One thing leads to another and to save her cousin and herself from being arrested Oliver manipulates them to participate in a deception so his Gran will forget about her demands his sisters, brothers, and himself must marry before the year is out or they don't get any of her money. 

Oliver and Maria are very funny together and Maria is a strong willed heroine and doesn't let Oliver forget it! I liked how even though she's strong willed she wants to be proper and moral but can't help but fall into Oliver's arms whenever he's near!  I can't wait to read the next book to see which of the other siblings finds their mate!  

Never Seduce a Scoundrel by Sabrina Jeffries

Goodreads Description:

“Be careful, Amelia you know how reckless you can be!” Mrs. Charlotte Harris, headmistress

Lady Amelia Plume has many admirers it’s too bad they’re all fortune hunters and fops who can’t provide the exotic adventures she seeks. But the ballrooms of Mayfair have become much more appealing since the arrival of Major Lucas Winter, an American with a dark past and a dangerous air. Lucas is brash, arrogant and scandalously tempting. Every thrilling kiss sparks hotter desire, yet Amelia suspects Lucas has a hidden motive in wooing her. And she intends to discover it, by any means necessary….

My Rating:

My Review:


Decent story line but I felt it lagging at times and then when thing picked up too much happened. I'm talking specifically about the unplanned tip to Scotland and then the kidnapping on their way home.  It just seemed excessive and I didn't really see the need for the kidnapping!  If it was removed the story line wouldn't of chanced and it would of been a quicker read.

Lady Amelia Plume went to finishing school late, due to her family's lack of funds until her father re-married an heiress.  She now has to fend off fortune hunters in a search for true love.  Major Lucas Winter is looking for a criminal and his supposed wife.  He tracks her down and realizes she's married to Lord Tovey and has a step daughter who might help him get revenge for his family and capture a criminal for the United States.  He did not plan on them forming a relationship or him running to rescue her when she is kidnapped and taken to Gretna Green.  He realizes at the end he loves her just as she loves him and he lets his grudge for vengeance go and they live a happy life together.

I just thought this book was ok but could have been so much more if it had just been edited a bit more.  I'm going to try the next in the series and see if it is an improvement on this book.  If it isn't I'm not going to waste my time with the series.

Revenge at Bella Terra by Christina Dodd

Goodreads Description:

Eli Di Luca lives in Bella Terra, but now the family vineyard he runs is in financial trouble. Enter Italian magnate Tamosso Conte, who makes a proposition Eli can't refuse: marry his daughter, and Conte will solve Eli's money problems.

Unfortunately, the beautiful Chloe has no intention of getting married without a fight. Soon she discovers Eli's been keeping secrets from her, and the truth will put them both in mortal danger.

My Rating:

My Review:

I rate this at 4 1/2 out of 5.  I thought the mystery twist of why the famous bottle of wine was so desirous was a stroke of genius.  It made this book stand out from the first in the series but still be part of the series. I loved the relationship between Eli and Chloe.  Eli needed money and was propositioned by Chloe's father, a old school Italian, to marry Chloe in return for the funds to get the winery out of trouble with the IRS.  A situation that was created by the accountant smuggling funds and then moving to South America.  

Chloe is a best selling novel author and is having issues with her second novel.  Her father arranges for her to stay at Eli's cottage to get inspiration, though she knows he's just playing match maker!  Unfortunately he's right with this one and Chloe grows to love Eli. 

Eli, having had a rough childhood, doesn't realize his feelings until it's almost to late.  Eli and Chloe are thrust into a 80 year old murder mystery and a search for a bunch of stolen pink diamonds.  They are also forced to deal with their feelings for each other and come to grips with them.  

Great story, amazing twists and unexpected turns.  The last chapter made me salivate for the third book in the series!  The only reason this didn't get a 5 is because some parts didn't seem realistic or probable, like Eli's childhood kidnapping and subsequent 'education' in Chile.  However the parts that aren't 100% realistic aren't very important to the overall story line so can be overlooked.  

Secrets of Bella Terra by Christina Dodd

Goodreads Description:

Brooding and sexy Rafe Di Luca has returned to his family's luxurious vineyard resort for one reason: to find out who attacked his beloved grandmother. His homecoming stirs up a decades-old feud, forcing him to work with Brooke Petersson, the woman he once seduced and betrayed...but never forgot.

My Rating:

My Review:

This is a contemporary romance based in the wine country of California.  Rafe Di Luca is an ex solder with a traumatic past.  He does security now and when he comes home, after his Nonna (Grandmother) is attacked he rekindles his on again off again relationship with Brooke.  The romance is hot and has a natural feel to it.  The mystery in the book about the famous missing bottle of while is great and adds great action and mystery to the story. Brooke and Rafe's investigation into who hurt Nonna and why almost gets Brooke killed but it shows them what is truly important in life.  Great start to a series.  I had to get the second book as soon as I finished this one!

(After I finished the second book I realized I never wrote a review for this first book so am correcting the oversight)

A Night to Surrender by Tessa Dare

Goodreads Description:

Welcome to Spindle Cove, where the ladies with delicate constitutions come for the sea air, and men in their prime are... nowhere to be found. Or are they? 

Spindle Cove is the destination of choice for certain types of well-bred young ladies: the painfully shy, young wives disenchanted with matrimony, and young girls too enchanted with the wrong men; it is a haven for those who live there. 

Victor Bramwell, the new Earl of Rycliff, knows he doesn't belong here. So far as he can tell, there's nothing in this place but spinsters... and sheep. But he has no choice, he has orders to gather a militia. It's a simple mission, made complicated by the spirited, exquisite Susanna Finch—a woman who is determined to save her personal utopia from the invasion of Bram's makeshift army. 

Susanna has no use for aggravating men; Bram has sworn off interfering women. The scene is set for an epic battle... but who can be named the winner when both have so much to lose?

My Rating:

My Review:


I've seen this book around and finally had a chance to read it.  The concept of a town dedicated to the 'rejects' of society sounded original and interesting.  I liked how Spindle Cove had a mix between socially awkward shy misses to women who are just too smart for the average Victorian era male. So in that aspect this book is very original and I can see may books in the Spindle Cove Series, at least I hope there will be. Susanna is a mid 20's woman who's inventor father brought her to Spindle Cove to recover after she almost died due to the attention of doctors.  She was determined to prevent as many woman as possible from suffering as she has.   She becomes an apothecary an invited women who only need a place to be themselves not bleed and purged to fix their personalities.

Her peaceful village is threatened when Victor Bramwell comes to visit Susanna's father.  He was injured and wants to get his command back and Susanna's father is his last chance.  Victor doesn't get what he expects but is given hope, all he has to do is create a militia and accept the title of Earl of Rycliff.   Victor and Susanna instantly set off sparks though Susanna just wants him to leave and not jeopardize her peaceful village.  Victor is attracted to Susanna but doesn't want to dishonor her father.

Their romance is sweet and Susanna sees his need for intimacy as Victor sees her need for passion.  Their too similar personalities clash at times and the arguments are entertaining to read.  This is a happy ever after and I highly enjoyed the twists near the end.  I can't wait to read the next in the series!

Secrets of an Accidental Duchess by Jennifer Haymore

Goodreads Description:

With her pale hair and slim figure, Olivia Donovan looks as fragile as fine china, and has been treated as such by her sisters ever since a childhood bout with malaria. But beneath her delicate facade, Olivia guards a bold, independent spirit and the kind of passionate desires proper young ladies must never confess... 

It was a reckless wager, and one Max couldn't resist: seduce the alluring Olivia or forfeit part of his fortune. Yet the wild, soon-to-be Duke never imagined he'd fall in love with this innocent beauty. Nor could he have guessed that a dangerously unpredictable rival would set out to destroy them both. Now, Max must beat a Madman at his own twisted game-or forever lose the only woman to have ever won his heart.

My Rating:

My Review:


I didn't read the first in this series and so there was a lot of back story I didn't know.  The first story is about how the older sisters came to England and the romance of Serena (now know as Meg) and Jonathan.  I was just frustrated because I wanted to know why she went by Meg now.  There is also a reference to a Serena's twin sister who is lost at sea an a Captain who apparently was engaged to Serena but is now friends with Serena and her husband Jonathan.  It's not too critical an issue however because this book is about Olivia and Max.  They meet in this book and the romance and following issues developed in the story are all created and resolved in this book so there is no dependence on the first book.

Olivia had Malaria when the family lived in the West Indies.  She gets fevers and faints and is depended on quinine to save her from her random fevers.  She believes she can't marry because having a child is not a guaranteed option.  Max sees Olivia at a ball with her sister Jessica and instantly is enthralled.  He is caught by his boyhood rival and a bet is made about seducing Olivia.  Max goes to a house party and once he meets Olivia gives up his stupid plan and they become friends.  A romance develops.  It get's out that the boyhood rival abuses his wife, thanks to Jessica and the rest of the Donovan sisters, and said rival goes mad.  The following actions in the story are pretty predictable but entertaining to read.  All ends well in the end however.

This book was good but I believe if I had read the first book it would have made this book even better.  I wouldn't have been confused at parts and thus not distracted by back story I didn't know.    So I recommend this book as a good historical romance but I also recommend you read the first book, Confessions of an Improper Bride.

Potent Pleasures by Eloisa James

Goodreads Description:

Nothing is more seductive than temptation.

Reckless desire sends Charlotte Daicheston into the garden with a dashing masked stranger. He's powerful, unforgettable, a devastatingly handsome footman who lures her--not against her will--into a grand indiscretion at a masquerade ball. Then he vanishes.

Several years later, after Charlotte has made her dazzling debut in London society, they meet again. But the rogue is no footman. He's rich, titled, and he doesn't remember Charlotte. Worse, he's the subject of some scandalous gossip: rumor has it, the earl's virility is in question.

Charlotte, who knows all too intimately the power of his passion, is stunned by the gossip that has set society ablaze. At last, there can be a storybook ending...unless, of course, Charlotte's one mad indiscretion had not been with him at all...

My Rating:

My Review:

I love Eloisa James so I figured I'd give this series of hers a try.  I enjoyed it.  The lay out and pace of the story is very good and the distrust the Earl harbors is something that anyone would have after the issues with his first wife.  Charlotte was a naive girl and after one moment of passion she decided she couldn't marry and turns to her art.  She becomes an amazing artist but realizes she wants a family.  She reinvents herself and emerges into the ton as the most sought after woman.  Alex, after suffering for a belief he is impotent thanks to his first wife, needs to find a mother for his daughter, Pippa.  Alex's first wife lied an received the annulment before anyone knew she was pregnant and didn't tell him of his daughter until she was on her death bed from Scarlet Fever.  Alex see's Charlotte and has to have her.  Their courting is entertaining to read and when they finally marry have to deal with Alex's trust issues.  It's a good read that made me feel a wide range of emotions while reading it.  The only reason I gave it a 4 not a 5 is because at points I got pissed off about how Alex reacted and just wanted him to see the truth and was frustrated that it was taking so long for him to do so!  But that's my problem not he authors.  I can't wait to read the next in the series!

The Promise in a Kiss by Stephanie Laurens

Goodreads Description:

Stephanie Laurens has enchanted growing legions of fans with her sweeping tales of the magnetic Cynster men and the women who love them. With this new novel, she creates her most irresistible story yet, the tale of Sebastian and Helena, the Duke and Duchess of St. Ives—the lovers who began it all.

Sheltered in a French convent school, Helena has little knowledge of men. But that changes one snowy Christmas Eve when she unexpectedly meets a mesmerizing Englishman who leaves her with a powerful kiss.

Grown into a stunning beauty, Helena cannot forget that forbidden kiss. Now, though, she must put aside her dreams and marry, an obligation that takes her to London. There she is determined to meet Society's most eligible bachelor, Sebastian, Duke of Ives, a man sworn never to wed. But when they are introduced, Helena is shocked...for Sebastian is none other than her wild Englishman.

My Rating:

My Review:

Good overall romance and the action was trilling to read.  The romance scenes were average but not boring to read.  I was excited to read how Sylvester's parents met and married.  I loved seeing them fall in love and Helena's internal and sometimes very visible external struggles with her feelings for the Duke.  The one question I have about this book is, if the Duke so truly loved his wife and was such an proud man why would he cheat on her while in Scotland with Lady Eleanor McEnery and create Richard (Scandal) as was mentioned in book 3 and 1 in the series.  It makes me look negatively on Sebastian, The Duke of St. Ives.  He pursues Helena so determinedly and wins her trust to betray it later on in their marriage, it just bothers me.  The book as a whole is good and as I said the action and romancing is average.  I recommend this book to anyone who's into the series as a way to see how Sylvester's parents came together but it's not a must read to enjoy the rest of the series.

Wedding of the Season by Laura Lee Guhrke

Goodreads Description:

Abandoned at the altar . . . 
Lady Beatrix Danbury had always known she would marry William Mallory. She'd loved him forever and she'd never doubted he loved her, too. But when she made him choose between their life together or his lifelong dream, Will chose the latter . . . and left two weeks before their wedding. 

Return of the duke . . . 
Will has no illusions that Beatrix would welcome him back with open arms, but six years did not dim his love or desire for her. The only problem is, she's about to marry someone else. Someone safe and predictable . . . the complete opposite of Will. But can he stop the wedding of the season and win Beatrix back, or is it just too late?

My Rating:

My Review:

I have read the 2nd and 3rd in the series and had to read the first in the series!  It was interesting to see the characters of the 2nd and 3rd book in this novel.  In this book, Beatrix and Will are the romantic pair!  Lady Beatrix was engaged to Will and two weeks prior to their wedding, Will went to Egypt to help search for King Tut's Tomb.  A lot changes in both their lives and 6 years pass before they see each other again.  Beatrix is engaged to marry another man and Will is looking for a sponsor to help fund the next years dig for King Tut's Tomb.  Their interactions together are pretty predictable but there is some good humor in them.  Beatrix was hurt when Will left and doesn't want a marriage around love, but convenience.  However everyone can see that is won't work for her but herself and with one humiliating kiss that was witness by 3 people once being her fiancee her future is changed again!  This is a happy ever ending and you see Beatrix come into her own skin and become an independent brave woman.  It's a good read but nothing fantastic but I am glad I read it to help understand some of the characters that make appearances in the rest of the series.  

Forever and a Day (The Rumor #1) By Delilah Marvelle

Goodreads Description:

Roderick Gideon Tremayne, the recently appointed Duke of Wentworth, never expected to find himself in New York City, tracking down a mysterious map important to his late mother. And he certainly never expected to be injured, only to wake up with no memory of who he is. But when he sees the fiery-haired beauty who's taken it upon herself to rescue him, suddenly his memory is the last thing on his mind. 

Georgia Milton, the young head of New York's notorious Forty Thieves, feels responsible for the man who was trying to save her bag from a thief. But she's not prepared for the fierce passion he ignites within her. When his memory begins to return, her whole world is threatened, and Roderick must choose between the life he forgot and the life he never knew existed.…(

My Rating:

My Review:

This book was so cleverly written it's shocking!  I finished reading this book and was literally floor by how in depth an well plotted and paced it was.  The story line is flawless, creative and thrilling.  It is all around an original story line, an for a historical romance that is amazing to accomplish!

For the first third of the book, you are taken from the first introduction of 'a gentleman' and Georgia on the streets of Broadway NY.  He takes a head injury and a week later Mrs. Georgia Milton, widowed in her early 20's, agrees to board the gentleman until his identity can be located.  Their romance and interaction in general is entertain to read.  Once the gentleman is identified by his father, the Duke of Wentworth, the story picks up in pace and intricacy.  The gentleman is Roderick Gideon Tremayne, sole living heir to the Duke of Wentworth.  I don't want to give much more away but in the end romance and love wins and Georgia re-invents herself to become accepted into Roderick's circle.  Georgia is a very strong independent character and I absolutely LOVED her dialogue and her sass!  I devoured this book and I can not wait for the second in this series to come out!  Over all, this is one of if not the best historical romance I have read in years!