Timeless Regency Collection: A Holiday in Bath by Julie Daines, Caroline Warfield, and Jaima Fixsen

Timeless Regency Collection: A Holiday in Bath by Julie Daines, Caroline Warfield, and Jaima Fixsen

Summary from Amazon:
TRIAL OF THE HEART by Julie Daines
Marianne Wood has been summoned to Bath to testify against the man who killed her family. She dreads coming face to face with the monster of her nightmares, but finds surprising comfort under the care of a charming barrister, Harby Northam. Despite his kindly attentions, Mr. Northam is a shrewd and discerning man of law with an awful secret. Marianne is put to the test as she deals with the evil of her past and her growing affection for the mysterious Mr. Northam.

LORD EDMUND’S DILEMMA by Caroline Warfield
Lucy Ashcroft doesn’t share her stepmother’s belief that she might find a husband during her sojourn in Bath, but she does enjoy a respite from a household full of half-siblings and a younger sister preparing for her London Season, something Lucy can’t even dream about. In Bath, she enjoys the company of the elderly ladies in her aunt’s circle, and happy to be out from under her stepmother’s watchful and speculating eye. But when Lucy meets Lord Edmund Parker, all of her expectations for a quiet, unassuming holiday suddenly change. 

THE ART OF KISSING IN THE PARK by Jaima Fixsen
Caroline Trenholme is not pleased with Bath, the fussy, antiquated resort of the shabby-genteel. She ought to be in London, finding a man—not here, coddling her irrational grandmother. In the park, she crosses paths (literally—this is Bath, after all) with a nameless, mannerless rogue, intent on stealing a kiss. As if his proposition weren’t insult enough, even her dog seems to like the man better. It's impossible! Especially once she suspects she might like him too…

4 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
I am so excited to go to Bath in a few weeks with my family. My daughters and I have read Regency books and watched movies like Persuasion and Northanger Abbey that have settings in Bath. This collection of stories brings me into that Regency Bath world and amps up my anticipation all the more.

Interestingly, each story has a hero who is or becomes a working man. These aren't the usual dashing Lord and Lady stories. The heroes are atypical of a Regency story, more unassuming and hard workers. The heroines aren't wilting violets looking for rescue. These women are opinionated and feisty. When you put these men and women together, you get great stories set in a great location.

Bath is known for its Roman baths and it's mineral waters . It is a place for healing and respite. It is also know for being a place to "get away" or holiday, sometimes even a place to be "sent away". Each story has healing in some way whether in a medical sense or in an emotional sense.

I'm looking forward to seeing the Roman baths and the streets and sites where these characters had their holidays. 

Warnings: None

I would let my (now) 16 year old read this collection.

The Rise of Miss Notley by Rachael Anderson

The Rise of Miss Notley by Rachael Anderson

Summary from Goodreads:
To escape an undesirable match, Miss Notley must give up her riches for rags.

When Miss Coralynn Notley’s father barters her off to the first titled gentleman to come along, she realizes she must flee her home or be forced to wed a despicable man. Driven by desperation, she applies for the position of housekeeper at Tanglewood Manor, the home of the handsome Mr. Jonathan Ludlow.

The moment Jonathan sees Miss Notley, he is intrigued. She is far too young and inexperienced, yet there is something about her that inspires a certain hope within him. Does he dare offer her the position of housekeeper or will doing so result in catastrophe?

5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
The Rise of Miss Notley is the 2nd book in Rachael Anderson's Tanglewood Series. Each is stand alone, but there are characters that cross over. The first story is The Fall of Lord Drayson.

Like The Fall of Lord Drayson, this historical story has some twists in it. At the same time, some of the story is predictable. Once you read the summary, you know that Miss Notley is going to get the job as housekeeper. 

At times I am nervous reading about her trying to do her job. I think Rachael Anderson did a good job of keeping it real though. Miss Notley makes lots of mistakes and she "gets in trouble" for them. But somehow with her positive attitude she is able to persevere.

The romance is just right. The attraction builds until the 2 characters admit there is more. One of the twists for me is how the two are able to eventually come together (let's be honest, we knew they'd get together). It is not an easy process since Miss Notley is at one time the housekeeper. And, her parents are horrible. They are able to overcome these obstacles and it is a satisfying ending without being boringly predictable.

I look forward to the next book The Splash of Lady Harriet.

Warnings: None

I would let my 15 year old read this book.

You can purchase this book:
Amazon

The Vicar's Daughter by Josi S. Kilpack

The Vicar's Daughter by Josi S. Kilpack

Summary from Goodreads:
Cassie, the youngest of six daughters in the Wilton family, is bold, bright, and ready to enter society. There's only one problem: her older sister Lenora, whose extreme shyness prevents her from attending many social events. Lenora is now entering her third season, and since their father has decreed that only one Wilton girl can be out at a time, Cassie has no choice except to wait her turn.

Evan Glenside, a soft-spoken, East London clerk, has just been named his great-uncle's heir and, though he is eager to learn all that will be required of him, he struggles to feel accepted in a new town and in his new position.

A chance meeting between Evan and Lenora promises to change everything, but when Lenora proves too shy to pursue the relationship, Cassie begins to write Mr. Glenside letters in the name of her sister. Her good intentions lead to disaster when Cassie realizes she is falling in love with Evan. But then Evan begins to court Lenora, thinking she is the author of the letters.

As secrets are revealed, the hearts of Cassie, Evan, and Lenora are tested. Will the final letter sent by the vicar's daughter be able to reunite the sisters as well as unite Evan with his true love?

5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

This book is due to release in April 2017

My Review:
This is another book in Shadow Mountain's A Proper Romance Line. Josi Kilpack has written several books in this line. This one is excellent, just like the others.

I could tell from the description of this book that I was going to be uncomfortable. I have a hard time with the "reveal" of deception. I always wonder how it could possibly work out. So I went in to this book already wondering "how can this possibly work out?".

I enjoyed reading the development of the relationships in this book. Some of these relationships include Cassie's relationships with her sister, her parents, herself and Evan as well as Lenora's relationship with Evan, her parents, and herself. The relationships change in the course of the book to a deeper level. They mature as the characters gain more understanding and develop their own selves.

As much as this is a romance, one of my favorite aspects of the book is the development of Cassie and her sister, Lenora. Both women are stilted in their emotions. Both are somewhat self absorbed. As they reap the consequences of their actions, they see life from a different perspective. They see each other from a different perspective as well. They mature in being concerned for others.

And, I truly loved both Cassie and Evan as their relationship unfolded. I hoped that they could find happiness, hopefully with each other, but if not, then somehow with someone else. There were painful moments and happy moments and I'm glad that I had a smile on my face when the book ended. Josi Kilpack found a way for the conflict to "work out". 

Warnings: None

I would let my 15 year old read this book.

You can pre order this book:
Amazon
BN
Deseret Book

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Valentine's Day Collection

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Valentine's Day Collection by Janette Rallison, Heather B. Moore, Jenny Proctor, Annette Lyon, Heather Tullis, and Sarah M. Eden

Summary from Goodreads:
A BRUSH WITH THE LAW by Janette Rallison
Bethany has endured a streak of depressing Valentine’s Days. And this one is turning out no different. Her friend set her up on a blind date—and Bethany can only hope that James will be a decent guy. But it seems the fated day has other plans, and Bethany finds herself in the middle of a comedy of errors that make a blind date with a stranger the least of her problems.

EVERY OCCASION by Heather B. Moore
When Maurie moves back to her hometown to open up her dream shop, she calls a local construction crew for help. Former teenage crush Grant shows up on her front porch, answering the call for the construction job, and Maurie’s memories of her troubled childhood return with full force. When she discovers Grant has a troubled past of his own, Maurie realizes that she might have misjudged him all along.

HOLD YOUR BREATH by Jenny Proctor
As Kayla trains for the Olympic swimming trials, she vows to never let another boyfriend get in her way. When she finds out her younger sister’s new high school swim coach is Nate—the guy Kayla had a huge crush on when they were in school together—Kayla realizes that her resolve is weakening. But Kayla isn’t willing to risk giving up her Olympic dream for anyone, not even charming Nate.

THE ULTIMATE BACHELOR CHALLENGE by Annette Lyon
When Sam’s long-time boyfriend, Steve, texts that he has something important to ask her on Valentine’s Day, she’s sure that he’s going to propose. Determined to look great for the big day, she hits the all-night laundromat to wash her favorite outfit. When her clothes are chugging away in a machine, Steve calls and pops a question—not one she ever would have expected. Reeling with shock, she’s left facing the holiday alone, unless you count the other person at laundromat, a guy leaning against his own washer, intent on his phone.

DEAL BREAKERS by Heather Tullis
The last place Colette wants to be stranded is the snowed-in Denver airport, especially when her sister is enduring chemo treatments and needs Colette’s help back home. When Colette runs into another stranded passenger—none other than former college boyfriend Drew—she can’t believe how much he’s changed . . . and hasn’t changed. Drew is still the same amazing guy that Colette was foolish enough to blow off for someone else. By the time she’d realized her mistake all those years ago, Drew’s heart had been too broken to give her a second chance. Now Colette can only hope that she can work her way back into his heart.

HEY, HELEN! by Sarah M. Eden
On the surface, Helen seems to have her life figured out. Her advice column, Hey, Helen!, is gaining more readers every week. She regularly hangs out with the guy next door, laughing and chatting over pizza and work. But when her feelings for her handsome neighbor begin tiptoeing toward something more than friendship, Helen can’t help hoping Neil might feel the same way. Between her own uncertainties, his friend-zone treatment of her, and a pair of loudly interfering parents, Hey, Helen! could use a little advice in love.

3.5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
This collection of stories does not cover simple, romantic Valentine's Day dates. Each of these stories seems to find something embarrassing, awkward, and yes, fun too. I enjoy some of the stories better than others. I have a hard time reading stories about people in extremely embarrassing situations and some of these do have those. One thing I like about A Timeless Romance Anthologies is that the stories will end on a positive note. So even as I'm cringing while I'm reading some of these stories, I know that there will be a positive resolution.

If you are looking for pure romance, this isn't that collection. Yes, there is romance, but working through some sort of conflict to get to that point is the bulk of the stories.

Warnings: None 

I would let my 15 year old read this collection.

You can purchase this collection:
Amazon
BN
Kobo

Timeless Regency Collection: A Season in London by Elizabeth Johns, Heather B. Moore, and Rebecca Connolly

Timeless Regency Collection: A Season in London by Elizabeth Johns, Heather B. Moore, and Rebecca Connolly

Summary from Goodreads:
POOR RELATIONS by Elizabeth Johns
As a ‘poor relation,’ Emma Standrich has already pre-empted her dismal Season by applying for a governess post. Her aunt and cousin are kind enough to sponsor her, but in truth, Emma is just waiting for it to all be over. Emma’s grief over the death of her brother while in military service casts a pallor on everything else in her life. When Colonel Shelton, the man who was her brother’s superior, asks her to dance at her first ball, Emma is more surprised than anyone. But she has questions for him, and soon she’s caught up in an intrigue she wasn’t expecting—both of the heart and the mind.

EDWARD & EMILY by Heather B. Moore
As a second son, Edward Blackwood never anticipated becoming heir to his family estate, or the need to find a wife and secure that inheritance. But with the death of his older brother, Edward is thrust into a life he never wanted. When his mother encourages him to be kind to his long-time neighbor Emily Foster, a girl he’d hardly paid attention to while growing up, Edward realizes that returning home might not be such a set-back after all.

A SPORTING SEASON by Rebecca Connolly
Daphne Hutchins is no simpering female who aims for a husband with a fortune. In fact, she’d be more than happy to live her life free of the heartache that men seem to bring. So when she sets out to play the fool in front of the ton during her first Season in order to send all eligible men running, she’s quite unprepared for James Woodbridge. Bored, but with a sense of family duty, James arrives for the Season, anticipating going through the expected motions befitting any gentleman. What he isn’t prepared for is Daphne Hutchins and the way she completely upends his heart.

4.5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
I love all things Regency. I'm delighted that A Timeless Romance Anthologies has been doing the all Regency Collections. 

This lovely collection centers around the ups and downs and ins and outs of the London Season. There are rules, there are places to see and be seen, and there are lots of matchmaking mommas. In each of these stories, the characters push the boundaries of London Society's rules in one way or another. They may show interest in someone who is not who their "momma" would like. Or they may purposefully sabotage their season in an effort to control their fate. These stories each take a different look at the typical London Season.

Warnings: None

I would let my 15 year old daughter read this collection.

You can purchase this collection:
Amazon
Itunes
Kobo

A look back at 2016 and a look forward to 2017

Here are some authors and books I enjoyed in 2016 and books I'm looking forward to in 2017. What authors did you discover and want to read more of their books?

Sarah M. Eden - Loved The Sheriffs of Savage Wells in 2016. Looking forward to three new books from Sarah in 2017! 

Julie Daines -  Loved Willowkeep and Eleanor and the Iron King. Looking forward to reading more books by Julie.

Taylor Dean - Loved Chasing Fireflies and look forward to reading other books by Taylor.

Nancy Campbell Allen - I have had books by Nancy on my to-read shelf and this year I read My Fair Gentleman. Looks like I need to get going on her other books on my shelf. 

Michele Paige Holmes - I have read several books by Michele in the past, but one of my favorites this year was Between Heaven and Earth. I wonder what she's working on for this year.

Annette K. Larsen - A couple of years ago I read Just Ella. This year I read the rest of the books in the Books of Dalthia series. She had twins this year so I don't know if there will be more in the Dalthia series, but I would love it if there were.

Donna Hatch - I had read The Stranger She Married previously and this year read the other books in Donna's Rogue Hearts series. Are there more coming this year? I hope so.

The Reformer by Jaima Fixsen (The Power of the Matchmaker series)

The Reformer by Jaima Fixsen (The Power of the Matchmaker series)

Summary from Goodreads:
Mary Buchanan has bigger worries than the radical journalist moving in next door who’s spoiling her father’s digestion: unrequited love for a footman, a fractious aunt, patiently awaiting her destiny…

Already she’s nearly eighteen. No sign of destiny yet, but Mary’s certain he’ll be handsome.

Then she meets the reformer, this Mr. Samuel Brown. Destiny is closer at hand than Mary has supposed—if she can just get Mr. Brown to realize it.

3.5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My review:
This last book the Power of the Matchmaker series has a different feel than the others. 

First, Miss Pearl is never called Miss Pearl in this book. If you've read the other stories, you know it's her. If you haven't read the other stories, you know it's the matchmaker, but it just isn't as overt as some of the other books.

Second, this story has more mature content. There is talk of sexual intercourse and how it is done in a round-about way. I was surprised when I read it. It isn't too graphic, but definitely discussed more than in any of the other books.

Third, the romance isn't as "sweet" as some of the others. There is a bit of a love triangle and lovey feelings aren't discussed as much. 

Having said all of this, I still like this book. I don't love it like I did some of the other Power of the Matchmaker books, but I find it an interesting read based on the time period and the situation the characters are in. Like some of the other Power of the Matchmaker books, it takes me to a time and place I don't know much about and I find that engaging. 

Warnings: Talk of sexual intercourse

I would let my 15 year old read this book after I warned her that there would be talk of sex in it.

You can purchase this book:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Kobo

To Move the World by Regina Sirois (Power of the Matchmaker)

To Move the World by Regina Sirois (Power of the Matchmaker)

Summary from Goodreads:
Eve Brannon never had to bother planning out her future. In the Yorkshire dales where life is harder, it is also simpler. Next in line to inherit her family's farm, she will raise another generation of children and sheep high in the uplands of England. Waiting until next year when she is 19 to marry her father's handsome hired hand, Alan, is the detail she added herself. 

But in 1939 even the most stalwart corners of the world are vibrating with the tremors of change. Eve's long-anticipated proposal comes on the wings of losing Alan to the Royal Army and at the brink of the farm's profitable war years the sheep herd is decimated by a mysterious illness. With her steady future suddenly in the clutches of a capricious fate, Eve is introduced to Jonathon Doran, a land manager anxious to prove himself in a crisis, and she discovers that the solid earth beneath her feet is moving after all.

4 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
This is the next installment of The Power of the Matchmaker series. Twelve authors got together and are releasing 1 book a month for this entire year of 2016. Each story has an appearance by Miss Pearl, the Matchmaker. To Move the World is the 10th book, or October's installment.

This story takes place in England just before World War II. The main character is convinced that there is no war coming. She won't accept it. As she sees her friends enlisting, she can no longer ignore that change is coming.

The change for Eve comes in several ways. Not only does her beau enlist in the army, but her sheep farm is decimated by an unknown illness. As much as Eve and others try, there is nothing they can do to stop the illness. Her life seems to be turning upside down. These challenges bring Eve to a new level of maturity. She discovers her strength, her wants, and her needs. She no longer ignores the world outside of her area.

This book brings the romance in the form of a love triangle. Eve has been "in love" with Alan for years. But when her world opens up to new possibilities, she meets Jonathan. Both love interests have positive and negative qualities. Miss Pearl helps Eve discover what her feelings are toward these 2 men.

I am a little disappointed with the ending of this book, but I also understand why it is the way it is. As a reader, I don't always get what I want and that is OK. The book is an interesting story about a time and place I haven't read much about. And, I always love seeing how Miss Pearl makes her appearances in each story. 

Warnings: None

I would let my 15 year old read this book.

You can purchase this book:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble

A Place for Miss Snow by Jennifer Moore

A Place for Miss Snow by Jennifer Moore

Summary from Goodreads:
Miss Diana Snow is everything a British chaperone should be—she finds satisfaction in order and depends wholly upon the rules of decorum as she negotiates the isle of Greece with her young charge. But Miss Snow's prim and proper exterior masks a disquieting past: orphaned and alone in the world, she has only her stiff upper lip to rely on. When a brief encounter with a handsome stranger challenges her rules of propriety, Diana is unwittingly drawn into an adventure that will turn her ordered world upside down.

Alexandros Metaxas is a Greek spy working to recruit individuals to the cause of revolution. His mission seems to be going perfectly until he encounters Diana Snow, a captivating—if slightly cold—beauty. When their paths cross again, the ill-fated reunion threatens all Alex has been fighting for. But more importantly, it places Diana's life in jeopardy. There is only one way to save her: they must put themselves at the mercy of the most powerful pirate family in the Mediterranean. Soon, Diana is plunged into a fantastic world of gypsy curses, blood feuds, and unexpected romance. But when a bitter vendetta places her in mortal danger, will she have the courage to fight for life and love?

5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
Jennifer Moore has become one of my favorite authors in the last year or so. Her attention to real history gets me involved in the stories she writes on a whole new level. This book is no exception.

This story takes place in Greece during the time of the Ottoman Empire. The main characters of this story become involved with Pirates and the Greek Revolution. This is a period of time and place that I know nothing about. I love that Jennifer Moore introduces me to history and initiates an interest in me. Every time I read one of her books I'm on Google finding out more.

Jennifer Moore is great at introducing a time and place in history and wrapping it in an intriguing and romantic story. I love watching the main characters develop their relationship. In this story, Diana Snow (or as the local Greeks call her "missno") finds herself. She has been invisible most of her life and in this story she discovers herself. She finds that she likes who she is. What a wonderful thing for any of us to discover!

Warnings: none

I would let my 15 year old read this story.

You can purchase this book:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Deseret Book
Seagull Book

Timeless Regency Collection: A Country Christmas by Josi S. Kilpack, Carla Kelly, and Jennifer Moore

Timeless Regency Collection: A Country Christmas by Josi S. Kilpack, Carla Kelly, and Jennifer Moore

Summary from Amazon:
SAINTS AND SINNERS by Josi S. Kilpack. When Neville Franklin’s best friend Burke wants to wager who can kiss Eloise first, Neville puts a stop to it. Eloise has been his friend since childhood, and, well, she’s off-limits. Especially to Burke. As Burke pursues Eloise and claims that she has a tendre for him, Neville becomes more and more protective of the girl he grew up with. On the night of the Christmas ball when Eloise appears in a dress that clearly shows that she is no longer a girl, but a beautiful woman, Neville realizes that his protective feelings toward Eloise have turned into something greater. But now, Neville’s best friend stands in his way.

THE CHRISTMAS ANGLE by Carla Kelly. Sailing Master Able Six is on half-pay with the British navy, biding his time during the uneasy Peace of Amiens and the resumption of war. Meanwhile, he’s invited to teach young pupils at the home of a vicar outside of Plymouth. There, he unexpectedly meets Meridee, the spinster sister-in-law of the vicar. From the moment Able sees Meridee, he’s entranced. When she asks him about his past and discovers his remarkable yet troublesome gift, he realizes he’s finally found someone who can care for all of him. Sadly, Able’s low station and half-pay gives him no way to provide for a wife. Meridee’s lack of dowry and dependence on relatives makes their union impossible at best. But isn’t Christmas a season of hope?

THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS by Jennifer Moore. Archie Clawson wants nothing more than to give Jane the perfect Christmas. Since her troubled childhood, she’s not experienced a Christmas with all the trimmings. To top off the perfection, he also plans to ask her to marry him on Christmas Eve. But as he and his friends, including Jane, travel to his country home, they are caught in a snowstorm and discover that notice of their arrival did not get through to the house staff. Worried over the disappointment he must be causing Jane and the complete shift in their planned Christmas, Archie fears that he’s misinterpreted her kindness towards him and lost her favor forever. 

4 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
I love these Regency collections from the Timeless Romance line. It is definitely my favorite time period to read about.

Each of these stories takes place at Christmas time and the characters live or travel to the country to celebrate the holiday. In the summary for "The Christmas Angle", it says "Isn't Christmas a season of hope?" I think all 3 stories are hopeful. The characters overcome difficulties to find happiness. I really appreciated the character of Jane in "The Perfect Christmas". I don't often read about characters with panic disorders, let alone that kind of disorder in the Regency time period. Again, each of these stories brings a sense of hope and love at that magical time of year, Christmas.

Warnings: None

I would let my 15 year old read this story.

You can purchase this book:
Amazon
BN
Kobo

The Lady of the Lakes: The True Love Story of Sir Walter Scott by Josi S. Kilpack

The Lady of the Lakes: The True Love Story of Sir Walter Scott by Josi S. Kilpack

Summary from Goodreads: 
It's 1796 and twenty-four-year-old Walter Scott is in love. For the past few years, he has been engaged in a long-distance courtship, writing love letters to his childhood sweetheart, Mina.

Though both Walter and Mina are young and from different stations in society, they share the same love of literature, a passionate temperament, and a restless heart. They know their love is meant to be. Walter feels sure Mina is the muse he needs to bring every dream of his life to fruition. But the distance between the two lovers proves too great, and when Mina meets the handsome and charming William Forbes, she is swept away, and the two quickly announce their engagement.

Brokenhearted, Walter takes refuge in the lake country of England where he resigns himself to a life of misery and heartache. But then he meets Charlotte, a French girl, who, at twenty-six, has resigned herself to the fact that she will never find love. Despite their age difference, the two become cautious friends, but Charlotte's quiet disposition and keen mind intrigue Walter. She is so different from Mina, yet perhaps, for Walter, it may be that his perfect match is a woman who calms him and helps him keep his feet on the ground. Though wary of risking his heart a second time, he finds himself falling deeply in love with her.

In the end, he is able to forgive Mina, forget his heartbreak, and forge ahead in a new relationship, realizing that there is a vast difference between a man's "first love" and his "true love."

4.5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:

I have not read any books by Sir Walter Scott. Although I have heard of him and some of his books, I am not familiar with his history or his writing. Josi S. Kilpack has taken historical information and woven it with her creativity to create this fictionalized story of Sir Walter Scott. I found myself googling information constantly throughout my reading of this story. The author did an excellent job of creating a compelling story within the historical timeline and known facts.

The beginning of this book was painful for me to read. There wasn't anything wrong with the writing or story telling.  But having read the synopsis and also doing the aforementioned googling, I knew that Walter Scott was going to get hurt. I didn't want to read about his heartache. I was afraid to face it. I kept putting off reading or reading a little here and a little there. Once the "deed" was done and Walter's heart was broken, I was able to delve more consistently in to the book. In fact, once I passed that point, it took me less than 2 days to finish it.

I appreciated reading about Walter Scott's growth from a young love struck teenager to a mature man. His emotional journey is one that I think many of us face to some extent. We start with one dream and as we mature it shifts and evolves as our lives and circumstances change. This can be related to romance, but also to our education, careers, and goals. 

I loved the relationship between Walter and Charlotte. They worked so well together and discovered that honesty brought them much happiness. Often in the early stages of relationships (and sometimes even after), we tiptoe around each other trying to figure out what the other person is thinking or what they want. It was refreshing to see these two be honest and forthright with each other and to see how it blessed their lives.

Again, Josi S. Kilpack fictionalized parts of the history to create this lovely story. It was hard at times to read knowing that these were real people who experienced these things. I hurt for them and rejoiced with them. The author truly brought me in to this time and space and now I will run to the library to find works by Sir Walter Scott.

Warnings: None

I would let my 15 year old read this book.

You can purchase this book next year in January. Or preorder now at 

Amazon

King of the Friend Zone by Sheralyn Pratt (Power of the Matchmaker)

King of the Friend Zone by Sheralyn Pratt (Power of the Matchmaker)

Summary from Goodreads:
From the Power of the Matchmaker series:

Esme Taylor has an amazing fiancé, a lifelong best friend, and a problem. 

The problem stems from the fact that her best friend is named Hunter and, well. . .he’s kind of (totally) hot. It’s hate at first sight when her fiancé, Jon, and Hunter meet. Jon’s convinced that Hunter is in love with Esme, and that Hunter must be out of the picture if their upcoming marriage is to succeed.

Esme thinks Jon is paranoid.

The truth is, Jon’s not that far off. Hunter is in love with his best friend and always has been. What Jon has wrong, however, is that Hunter never had any plans of ruining Esme’s happily ever after. Hunter wants what’s best for Esme, even if that’s not him.

When Jon pushes hard to end Esme and Hunter’s friendship, opposition comes from the most unlikely of places. It’s an eccentric lady with a cookie cart who suggests a different solution to Esme’s problem: Hunter and Esme should give each other a chance.

They’ve both thought of the possibility over the years—of course they have. But with a ring already on Esme’s finger and a heap of hurt feelings and broken trust in the mix, there hasn’t been a worse time to explore the depths of their feelings for each other.

Both Esme and Hunter think it’s time to move on and leave childhood crushes in the past. The question is: Can one woman and the taste of one cookie change their minds?

4 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
When I read the summary I thought, "Oh it's My Best Friend's Wedding" in a book! Well, the concept is a story that has been told. However, I found that I couldn't put this book down once I got in to it. I was so engrossed in these characters' stories that I wanted to know how everything resolved.

These 2 main characters were definitely likable. However, they made stupid choices. We all make stupid choices. I get that. But their choices were really what drove the conflict in this story. Sometimes I wanted to reach through the ereader and strangle them. 

Luckily, these 2 decide to be honest...with themselves and with each other. Once the honesty comes in to play, these characters face even more challenges. Again, I was very interested in seeing how these characters resolved their feelings and came to a happy ending. And with the Power of the Matchmaker series, you know there will be a happy ending.

This book, being part of the Power of the Matchmaker series, had Miss Pearl, the Matchmaker, helping Esme and Hunter through their unresolved feelings. I loved reading about Miss Pearl being a cookie seller. The concept of the cookie (you'll have to read to find out!) was so fun to read. Miss Pearl has "played" many roles in the different books and this one was one of my favorites.

Warnings: None

I would let my 15 year old read this book.

You can purchase this book:
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The Fall of Lord Drayson by Rachael Anderson

The Fall of Lord Drayson by Rachael Anderson

Summary from Goodreads:
Who is he really? A high and mighty lord or a lowly servant?

When Colin Cavendish, the new earl of Drayson, informs Lucy Beresford that she and her mother need to vacate the house they've called home for the past two years, Lucy is fit to be tied. They have no money, no relations they can turn to for help, and nowhere to go. How dare the earl break the promise his father had made to the Beresfords without so much as a twinge of conscience?

Fate plays her hand when Lucy discovers the earl unconscious and injured in the middle of the road. When he awakens with no recollection of who he is, Lucy seizes the opportunity to teach the earl a much-needed lesson in humility and tells him that he is nothing more than a mere servant. Her servant, in fact. 

And thus begins the charming tale of a pompous lord and an impetuous young woman, caught together in a web so tangled that it begs the question: Will they ever get out?

5 Stars

Received an ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
This was an unexpected read. When I read the summary I immediately thought I knew where the story was going to go. Thank you, Rachael Anderson, for writing something different than expected.

In this story, Lucy put Lord Drayson in the position of being her servant after he lost his memory. There were many funny scenes as Lord Drayson tried to do tasks that he was unfamiliar with. And the banter that ensued between Lord Drayson and Lucy was great to read.

There were times I was frustrated with Lucy. We, as readers, have a broader vision and I so wished she would make different choices. However, in life, one doesn't have the broader vision and these two characters made mistakes like we all do.

Lord Drayson began the book as one person. During his memory loss, he evolved. It was pleasant to read his thoughts and watch his discoveries about himself.

The development of the relationship of these 2 main characters was lovely. It was slow and friendly to start and then there were times of great passion as well.

I appreciated the way this story resolved. Again, the story took unexpected turns and I liked that the ending wasn't completely predictable. The one thing you could count on though was a happy ending.

Warnings: None

I would let my 15 year old read this book.

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A Timeless Romance Anthology: Blind Date Collection by Annette Lyon, Sarah M. Eden, Heather B. Moore, Victorine E. Lieske, Rachel Branton, and Sariah Wilson

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Blind Date Collection by Annette Lyon, Sarah M. Eden, Heather B. Moore, Victorine E. Lieske, Rachel Branton, and Sariah Wilson

Summary from Goodreads:
Three Historical Romance Novellas:

THE PROMISE THAT KATY DID, by Annette Lyon: After the death of Sue Ellen, the closest thing she has to family, Katy knows it’s time to leave the house she’s lived in as a guest and start over in the city. She quickly secures a job, but before leaving, she must honor the unusual promise she made to Sue Ellen on her deathbed: meet with Mr. Balmer. The elderly gentleman arranges for his grandson Barrett to escort her to a town dance. That evening, shy Katy quickly feels at ease with her partner. If her new position weren’t taking her from town morning after next, perhaps something could develop between them. But Barrett may not feel the same about her, and besides, they don't have enough time to find out.

A LADY OF SENSE, by Sarah M. Eden: Eleanor Sherwood has lived her entire life under her parents’ thumb with little hope of escape. When they choose the unbearable Mr. Broadstead to be her future husband, she begs her father for another option. He arranges for her to meet Peter Havensham, who quickly proves himself a good and kindhearted gentleman, completely different from Mr. Broadstead, and utterly undeserving of a forced engagement. Eleanor cannot bring herself to prey upon Peter’s honor, but neither can she imagine a life with Mr. Broadstead. What is a lady to do when faced with such an impossible choice?

A SECOND CHANCE, by Heather B. Moore: Virginia needs a new start in order to recover from her broken marriage and vicious gossips of her neighborhood in Boston, so when her best friend Millie invites Virginia to Chicago, she goes to live with her friend’s family. But when Millie asks Virginia to participate in a double-date, Virginia knows she’s not ready to start dating again. Reluctantly she agrees, only to find out that Max might just be the man who can repair the cracks in her heart.

Three Contemporary Romance Novellas:

BRAELYNN’S BLIND DATE, by Victorine E. Lieske. When Braelynn agrees to go on a blind date, she thinks she’s hit the jackpot. Tyler is gorgeous and the perfect gentleman. Of course she should have known it was too good to be true. It turns out that Tyler really wasn’t Tyler, but a random stranger who went along with Braelynn’s mistaken assumption. So, she chalks it up to a dumb mistake until she gets to work Monday morning and discovers that her gorgeous blind date is now her new boss.

BIANCA’S HOPE, by Rachel Branton: A blind-date-gone-wrong is not the way Bianca would have chosen to celebrate the news that she might be losing her business, but saying no to the sister who took care of her after their mother’s death proves impossible. So for one date, one torturous evening, she’ll endure the company of an infuriating, heartless man she has no intention of ever seeing again. She doesn’t expect her heart to have other plans. Bianca soon learns that sometimes the unexpected is not only what you need, it’s exactly what you’ve been waiting for all along.

BLIND SPOT, by Sariah Wilson: Ria has prepared most of her life to meet her prince, trouble is, her mother keeps yanking her back to reality. So when Ria reads about a country teeming with princes, she drops everything and applies to grad school. But every blind date goes wrong, and while Ria commiserates with her roommate Tessa and Tessa’s totally un-prince-like brother Paolo, Ria discovers that all the things she thought she wanted in a man are far from what she really needs.

4.5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
I hear the words "Blind Date" and I cringe a bit. In general, we all have bad associations with blind dates. That is part of what makes this collection so fun.

I admit, I prefer the historical stories in this collection. But that is mostly because I prefer historical stories in general. They carry me to another time and place. In the historical stories, the blind dates are not what we think of as blind dates today. Yes, they are dates with someone the character doesn't know. However, the dates seem to be set up from a more simple and innocent place than we think of blind dates today.

In the contemporary stories, we read about more typical blind dates...one friend sets up another friend with someone they think will get along well. They actual call them "blind dates" in the contemporary stories. 

With all 6 of these stories, I'm glad that the characters didn't have a blind date, fall in love instantly, and live happily ever after. Each story has some conflict, some small, some big. It gives the stories more interest. At the same time, we know going in to these stories that they will have a happy ending of some sort. I personally like that. It is part of the reason I love the A Timeless Romance Anthology collections. I look forward to reading stories that have clean and happy romance.

Warnings: None

I would let my 15 year old read this collection.

You can purchase this collection:
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