Timeless Regency Collection: A Midwinter Ball

Timeless Regency Collection: A Midwinter Ball by Heidi Ashworth, Annette Lyon and Michele Paige Holmes

Summary from Goodreads:
From the publisher of the #1 Amazon bestselling A Timeless Romance Anthology series in Clean Romance. 

Join three bestselling regency romance authors, Heidi Ashworth, Annette Lyon, and Michele Paige Holmes, for three new regency romance novellas in A MIDWINTER BALL. 

MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth. Two years have passed since Lord Northrup declared his intentions for Miss Analisa Lloyd-Jones and forbade any other man to court her. Angry at the neglect, Analisa stopped reading his letters, never even breaking the seals. Tired of waiting, Analisa joins the house party at Mrs. Smith’s famous country home, determined to find a beau. When Lord Northrup unexpectedly joins the party, Analisa discovers she is no longer repulsed by the man who first laid claim to her hand.

SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon. Olivia Wallington is firmly established as a spinster, but that doesn’t stop her from dreaming about the perfect man. Ever since her father’s death, Olivia has been forced into seclusion by her mother. When her brother and his wife come for a visit, they discover the extent to which she lives under their mother’s thumb. With their help, Olivia sneaks out to attend a local ball, where she meets Edward Blakemoore. For a few divine moments, all of her dreams seem possible. But even someone like Mr. Blakemoore would be hard pressed to get past Mrs. Wallington’s fortress of protection—or past Olivia’s pride.

AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes. Lady Ella has been isolated on her father’s estate since her mother’s death as her father travels the world. When Alex Darling arrives with a letter from her long-dead fiancé, and a demand that she travel to London for a series of engagements, Ella thinks her father instigated the strange demands and agrees. In London, she discovers the truth behind her fiancé’s death, and that new love might be possible in the arms of the most unexpected man. 

5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review.

My Review:
I am thrilled that A Timeless Romance Anthology has started putting together the Timeless Regency Collections. The first is Autumn Masquerade and this one is the 2nd collection. Next will be Spring in Hyde Park. 

Each of these stories follows a woman who is in need of change in her life. She may be smothered by overprotective families or lonely or isolated from society. This need within each of the women helps them to make decisions that propel them in to a different place in their lives. By being brave they find happiness and love.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this collection.

Twelve Days in December by Michele Paige Holmes

Twelve Days in December by Michele Paige Holmes

Summary from Goodreads:
A Christmas Novella from the bestselling Hearthfire Romance series by Michele Paige Holmes:

Five months isn’t enough time to grieve the death of her husband and marry again, but when the unexpected opportunity to take her sister’s place as the bride of wealthy New York businessman, William Vancer, presents itself, twenty-four year-old Charlotte Holbrook agrees. Their marriage of convenience will provide a secure future for her son, while William will be able to claim the inheritance he needs to expand his company westward.

To begin their perfect and perfectly safe arrangement, William allots the last twelve days in December to become acquainted with his new family—a task more easily accomplished than he had imagined. For in Charlotte he finds a tender heart and companion, while stepping into the role of father to her son, brings William a great measure of joy as well. Before the twelve days have passed, he finds himself wishing their marriage of convenience could be something much more.

For Charlotte, every day with William is one of overwhelming gratitude, as he anticipates and provides for her needs, as well as the fondest desires of her heart. More than material comforts, William offers friendship as well, and a loving concern that Charlotte has gone too long without. Guilt ridden, she struggles with her growing attraction and wonders how she can ever remain loyal to her first husband, while allowing herself to love William as he deserves. 

5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
This lovely novella is a companion to Michele Paige Holmes' Marrying Christopher. Charlotte and William rather quickly marry when they hardly know each other. The arrangement seems like a good business deal for both parties. Wonderfully, they find that it is more than a business deal. As they get to know each other and spend time together, their attraction grows.

I like the simple moments that bring these two characters together. It is the moments of spending time as a family, playing together, and talking. It isn't a whirlwind. This makes for a very sweet story that leaves me feeling happy during this Christmas season.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this story.

Always Will by Melanie Jacobson

Always Will by Melanie Jacobson

Summary from Goodreads:
Handsome twenty-eight-year-old Will Hallerman has finally had enough of the dating world—he's ready to find a wife and settle down. This announcement is catastrophic in Hannah Becker's world. After knowing Will her entire life and adoring him from afar since junior high school, she realizes her chance at love with him is in grave danger. Hannah's problem? To Will, she will never be more than his best friend's little sister. Determined to open his eyes to her charms, Hannah sets out to sabotage Will's wife hunt by placing nightmare dates in his path and taking his search on a wild goose chase. Her plan is risky, but she's willing to take a chance to catch the eye of her soul mate.

Despite her crazy schemes, nothing seems to be working. Hannah can't help but wonder if it's time to set aside this childhood crush—to move on and settle down herself. She's ready for a fresh start with a great guy. If only Will weren't suddenly changing the rules of the game... And how can Hannah move on when Will just won't let her forget?

4 Stars

Received ebook for an honest review.

My Review:
Melanie Jacobson writes great contemporary romance. I really enjoy Melanie Jacobson's writing, especially her humor. This book shows her understanding of complex relationships and finding the humor in the good and bad aspects of that relationship.

There are sweet moments between the two main characters. There are confusing and frustrating moments between them as well. Melanie Jacobson does a good job of keeping the reader feeling the ups and downs of the relationship along with the characters. Does Will like Hannah? I think so. Wait, maybe he doesn't and I am reading that wrong. Oh wait, I think he does like her. There is definite angst in this story as the characters work through the ups and downs and changes in their relationship.

As much as I like the story, the main characters annoy me. I wish I could say I loved them, but I don't. And, I think the characters work really well together. I wouldn't want to date either of them, so it is a good thing they have each other.  I don't have to love the characters to enjoy the story. It would just help me to love the story more. 

This is a clean, contemporary romance.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this book.

Simply Anna by Jennifer Moore

Simply Anna by Jennifer Moore

Summary from Goodreads:
Suffering from a cruel heartbreak, Lord Philip Hamilton has been driven to seek refuge from the painful memories haunting London, and his father’s Jamaican sugar cane plantation provides just the escape he needs. Philip finds solace in his hard work and takes comfort in the fact that his distance from society ensures that his heart will be protected from future entanglements. Protected, that is, until the unexpected appearance of a mysterious woman with no memory of her past. The only clue to her identity is a necklace inscribed with a name: Anna. In a matter of weeks, this gentle, intelligent, and impossibly beautiful stranger turns Philip’s world upside down. But as the bond between the pair grows, the threat of Philip losing his heart once more is only the beginning of the dangers that await. Island renegades and a ruthless band of pirates clash in a swashbuckling battle, and it soon becomes clear that these villains may be the key to unlocking Anna’s past . . .

5 Stars

Received an ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
This is the 3rd book of Jennifer Moore's that I've read. I am a huge fan! I haven't read one of her books yet that I didn't like. If you like Historical Fiction then check her books out. 

I can't imagine how much research Jennifer Moore must do for her books. Each one gives me an insight into the time and place that she is writing about. This one is no exception.

This story takes place in Jamaica in the early 1800's. I have read stories set in England in this time period that talk about the Caribbean and characters owning plantations there. This is the first where I read about what life is like on the plantation. (It isn't that there aren't books out there about this, I just haven't read them.) I learn about slave life on the plantation as well as how plantations are run. I learn about some of the politics of slavery from this time.  I love reading about historical elements with which I am unfamiliar. I love learning something new from a fiction book that entertains me and takes me to another place and time. 

On top of all this great learning, this book has a great story. It is short, yet full of romance, adventure, sadness, confusion, and, of course, happiness.  

Warnings: This is a clean book with some difficult topics like slavery, death, and loss.

I would let my 17  year old read this book.

The Mariposa Hotel (A Tangerine Street Romance) by Julie Wright, Melanie Jacobson, and Heather B. Moore

The Mariposa Hotel (A Tangerine Street Romance) by Julia Wright, Melanie Jacobson and Heather B. Moore

Summary from Goodreads:
The Mariposa Hotel
A Tangerine Street Romance
(a novel in three parts)

Welcome to Tangerine Street

Tangerine Street is a must-see tourist stop with a colorful mix of one-of-a-kind boutiques, unique restaurants, eclectic museums, quaint bookstores, and exclusive bed-and-breakfasts. The Mariposa Hotel, a new resort, has revitalized Seashell Beach, bringing new life to the sleepy beach town. In the charming gardens of the hotel sits a three-hundred-year-old wishing well transported from Mexico. One toss of the coin, a sincere wish, and lives are changed forever… 

Other books in the Tangerine Street Romance series: 
The Fortune Café 
The Boardwalk Antiques Shop

4.5 Stars

Received an ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
So far these 3 authors have put together 3 Tangerine Street Romances.  The first is The Fortune Cafe. The second is The Boardwalk Antiques Shop.  This 3rd installment is much like those in that there are 3 separate stories, each by one of the authors. Each book takes place in the small beach town on the touristy Tangerine Street full of shops.  The authors have a "townful" of possibilities for more stories and I look forward to reading each of them.

The Mariposa Hotel has a beautiful and somewhat secret garden on the main floor.  In the middle is a beautiful old wishing well.  The characters in these 3 novellas have the opportunity to stay in the hotel and visit this wishing well. There is romance, miscommunication and magic from this amazing well to create 3 separate, yet connected stories. 

I appreciate that in all three stories, the characters are a bit more mature (meaning they are older than 20).  They have experienced relationships, education, jobs and in some cases have children they care for.  They have had successes in life as well as disappointments.  This allows them to bring a little "baggage" to the stories that gives them depth and interest.  

This is a quick, fun, and romance filled book.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this book.

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Sarah M. Eden British Isles Collection

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Sarah M. Eden British Isles Collection

Summary from Goodreads:
The SARAH M. EDEN BRITISH ISLES COLLECTION contains two brand new historical romance novellas A FRIEND INDEED and A HAPPY BEGINNING, as well as four hand-picked readers’ and reviewers’ favorites of Sarah’s popular Timeless Romance Anthology novellas. Readers will love this selection of six historical romance novellas set in the British Isles.

5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
It is no secret that I love Sarah M. Eden.  I love having a collection of her stories, especially ones in the British Isles.  I am a sucker for British Isle Historical Romance.

This collection starts off with 2 new stories by Sarah M. Eden.  Then there are 4 stories from previous anthologies.  I am happy that Sarah M. Eden included the very first A Timeless Romance story that I read.  In the first collection, Winter Collection, in 2012, the very first story is The Road to Cavan Town. It reminds me why I fell in love with these collections.

In the 2 new stories, Sarah M. Eden adds to my love of her story telling.  The first story, A Friend Indeed, is not at all what I expected.  Although the story is a romance, it doesn't have the sweep you off your feet, butterflies in your stomach kind of romance.  It leaves the reader with a sense of hope about love and its possibilities.  The second story, A Happy Beginning, shows how 2 people can overcome obstacles and work together for their happy ending, or in this case, their happy beginning.

I recommend reading any of the A Timeless Romance Anthologies for anyone who likes clean romance, both historical and contemporary.  

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this book.

A Healing Spirit by Melissa A. Hanson

A Healing Spirit by Melissa A. Hanson

Summary from Goodreads:
A freak ski accident brings nineteen-year old Mia Kinney within minutes of death. Hurt and scared, Mia is calmed by the southern drawl and clear green eyes of her rescuer. 

Twenty-one year old Dylan Blackburn is one of the first Ski Patrol members on the scene. As his patient is airlifted to the local trauma center, he can’t shake her from his thoughts. 

As Mia fights for her life, Dylan, is haunted by the blond hair beauty, and knows he needs to make sure she’s going to be okay. 

With a troubled past Dylan has vowed never to completely open himself up to another girl, but Mia continues to knock down every wall he’s constructed. When his past arrives at his front door and threatens once again someone that he loves, will Dylan be able to save Mia yet again? Or will he be too late this time?

A story of love, friendship, and the determination to turn a horrible experience into something worthwhile.

"A Healing Spirit" is book 2 of the Riverview Series, however each is a standalone story.

4 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
As the summary states, this book starts with a freak accident.  It really took me off guard.  The author does an excellent job of keeping the adrenaline going in the first parts of this book.  The action goes from the accident all the way through the rescue process and surgery at the hospital.  One could find the details of the process tedious, but I really like seeing it unfold.  Also, the entire book is told in different points of view. By doing this, the author gives us the first hand experience in the action.

The romantic elements of this story are lovely.  I really like seeing these characters come together from a difficult situation.  The characters even state in the book that although the accident was horrific, they are glad that it happened so that they could meet and fall in love. There is one scene where the couple take their physical relationship a little farther than I usually like.  As they are kissing, there is touching under clothes, but it is very brief.  The couple discuss it and what they see in their physical future.  

As the story continues, there is yet more action at the end of this book.  As one of the main character's past relationship comes back in to his life, it turns in to a cat and mouse game.  This person is out for revenge and nothing will stop him.  It is an unexpected aspect of the story.  I can tell about half way through the book that something is going to happen, but it is more action packed than I expected.

This is a good mix of action and romance.  Again, I really like seeing the different points of view throughout the book.  And the action and romance are just the right amount for me.

Warnings: Scene with touching under clothes, very brief.

Even though there is that brief touching scene, I would let my 17 year old daughter read this book.  

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Under the Mistletoe Collection

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Under the Mistletoe Collection
by Cindy Roland Anderson, Annette Lyon, Julie Coulter Bellon, Sarah M. Eden, Heather B. Moore, and Jennifer Griffith

Summary from Amazon:
Six Award-Winning Authors have contributed new stories to A Timeless Romance Anthology: Under the Mistletoe Collection. Six contemporary novellas, all adding sweet romance to the Christmas season. 

In the enchanting novella FORGOTTEN KISSES by Cindy Roland Anderson, costume designer Madison Taylor has no love lost when the male lead playing Sir Lancelot in a TV series is fired. She couldn’t stand working with him anyway. But when she discovers who his replacement is, her heart nearly stops. Caleb Matthews is one of the hottest male actors ever… and not to mention Madison’s former boyfriend. When things got too serious between them, everything fell apart. And now, Madison must play nice or lose her job. She just has to forget all of the reasons she’d fallen for him in the first place. 

In THE LAST CHRISTMAS, a sweet romance novella by Annette Lyon, Meredith only has to make it through the Christmas holiday pretending that she and her husband Eric aren’t on the verge of divorce. She doesn’t want to ruin the holiday for her two grown daughters and their boyfriends. But when Eric hurries home after weeks of living in a motel to unpack before their daughters arrive, he starts pressing Meredith with questions about why she filed for divorce. The last thing Meredith wants to do it give Eric a second chance, but it seems that Eric is not willing to let her go without trying to win her back. 

In Julie Coulter Bellon’s captivating novella TRUTH OR DARE After a year of recovery, wounded war veteran Jonah Harrison comes home for Christmas. No longer the outgoing high school track star, he just wants to be left alone, away from well-meaning friends and neighbors. But when a blizzard strands him with Cami Jackson—the girl who once knew him best—he can’t hide anything from her, no matter how much he wants to. Cami has a wounded heart of her own, though, and it might take a Christmas miracle for them to find the healing they both long for and the courage to reach for a chance at love. 

In the charming novella HOLIDAY BUCKET LIST by Sarah M. Eden, Celeste Lagorio has officially given up on Christmas. A single mother, with her children grown and unable to return for the holiday, Celeste determines to take a break from everything. When her single neighbor and almost-best-friend, Mike Durham, discovers her non-plans, they discuss things they’ve always wanted to do, but never had time. Mike and Celeste put together a friendly competition of checking off the things on their bucket list, all the while drawing closer and discovering they have more in common than they thought. 

In CHRISTMAS EVERY DAY, a delightful novella by Heather B. Moore, Monica is on the verge of buying her dream store, but when she tells her boyfriend, he turns it into an embarrassing public argument. Heartbroken, but determined to follow her dream, she goes to her employer’s Christmas party to play Mrs. Claus, only to be paired with someone unexpected. A young Mr. Claus who is the complete opposite of her ex-boyfriend in all the most important ways. Yet, Monica is not sure she can risk opening her heart again. 

In Jennifer Griffith’s exciting novella FIRST (AND LAST) CHRISTMAS DATE, pilot Juliet Law has been in a holding pattern, dating the wrong guy, until she gets a holiday shake-up: old flame Tag McClintock e-mails her to ask for second date—after ten years. Their first date, back in high school, had been an unmitigated disaster culminating with Pepto Bismol and the police. Still, Juliet would have gone out with Tag again the next day—and the next—had he asked. So now that he’s finally popping up in her in-box again, Juliet must decide whether to say yes to the date, even if it puts her at risk of another decade of carrying a torch for Tag McClintock. Will their second date be their last? 

4 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
I love these collections.  This one was good, but I have liked others better.  Usually I love all of the stories, but in this one there were a few that I didn't particularly enjoy. At least not like I usually do.

One of the things I LOVED about this collection: There were some stories of older couples.  As a "not 20 something" adult, I liked reading about older people (and by that I mean "not 20 something").  The relationships have a different feel.  The couples bring more maturity and also more baggage to the relationship.  But it reminds me that falling in love happens at all times in life.  And it can happen again and again within your own marriage.  

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this collection.

Timeless Regency Collection: Autumn Masquerade

Introducing a new line from A Timeless Romance Anthology!  The stories are all Regency.  It is called Timeless Regency Collection.  This is the first one and I look forward to many more.

Timeless Regency Collection: Autumn Masquerade by Josi S. Kilpack, Donna Hatch, and Nancy Campbell Allen

A MERRY DANCE by Josi S. Kilpack. When Lila overhears her uncle talking about a man coming to look for property in the county, she doesn’t think twice, until her uncle says he hopes Lila will find enough interest to marry the man. How can she marry someone named Mortimer Luthford, not to mention that his advanced age of thirty-three, and especially since she’s already in love with her absent cousin Neville? But when Mortimer arrives, Lila has to try every trick known to women to act not interested in the rather fascinating man, which proves a very difficult façade to maintain. 

UNMASKING THE DUKE by Donna Hatch. The last thing Hannah Palmer wants to do is flirt with men in a crowded ballroom, but when her sister throws a Masquerade Ball, Hannah can’t say no to the invitation and takes comfort behind a mask. She dances with a charming masked man, matching him wit for wit. When the glorious evening culminates in a kiss, and the two remove their masks, Hannah is horrified to discover the man she’s been flirting with all night is her most despised neighbor, the Duke of Suttenberg. No matter how charming the duke was at the ball, and how wonderful the kiss, he is the last man she’d ever accept.

WHAT’S IN A NAME by Nancy Campbell Allen. Penelope Timely has a terrible secret. She’s been writing letters to the Duke of Wilmington, pretending to be her ever-proper twin sister, Persephone. Now, the duke has written that he’ll be coming for the Autumn Masquerade Ball and Festival. Penelope will have to continue the charade while the duke is in town in order to protect her sister. The Duke of Wilmington isn’t fooled for a moment, but instead of confessing that he knows about the deception, he finds himself utterly charmed by Penelope and jumps into the game of deception to see how far the twin sisters will take it.

5 Stars, I love Regency!

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
Ahh, I love Regency Romance, especially when it is clean.  That is one of the reasons I love these Anthologies, they are clean, fun, and swoon-worthy.

Each of these stories takes place with an Autumn Masquerade.  This is so fun for this time of year.  The characters get to dress up, wear masks, and dance the night away.  All of this leads to miss information and some deception and of course, love.  I enjoy seeing how the authors play with this theme.  Each story has its own feel, but it is fun to have it all connected with the Autumn Masquerade.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this book.

The Power of the Matchmaker by Heather B. Moore

The Power of the Matchmaker by Heather B. Moore

Summary from Goodreads:
A prequel novella to the POWER OF THE MATCHMAKER Series
Mystical . . . Beautiful . . . Romantic . . .
12 novels by 12 bestselling authors
Released once a month in 2016
Read the matchmaker’s story to find out where it all starts . . .

Mae Li has been in love with Chen Zhu for years, and he with her. But when the matchmaker arrives at the Zhu family home, she recommends another village girl for Chen.

Heartbroken, Mae Li watches as Chen does his duty by marrying another. Mae flees her village with the clothes on her back and her only possession—a pearl embedded comb, given to her as a goodbye gift from Chen Zhu.

Upon Mae’s arrival in Shanghai, she quickly learns that she’ll starve within days unless she sells her prized comb or joins a courtesan house. She goes to the Huangpu River and promises the River God that she’ll always be selfless if he will save her from becoming a prostitute . . . Her wish is granted when Ms. Tan, the matchmaker of Shanghai, finds Mae. But Mae must completely change her future and her name if she is to become the next matchmaker. 

5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
As stated in the summary, this is going to be a series where 1 book is released each month for 12 months.  Put them all on your Goodreads shelf. To see which books are coming out which month and their beautiful covers, check out Heather B. Moore's Blog. I am looking forward to reading each of these.

This novella introduces the reader to the Matchmaker who will be involved in each of the books released next year.  We learn about her heartbreaking youthful love story.  We learn how she survives and heals from her heartbreak.  We learn how she is mentored by the local Matchmaker.  And, ultimately, we learn how she becomes the Matchmaker.  

This story is a great introduction to what is coming next.  It has definitely gotten me excited for each of the books and seeing how Mae Li, aka Miss Pearl,  works her magic in being the Matchmaker.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this book.

Miss Burton Unmasks a Prince by Jennifer Moore

Miss Burton Unmasks a Prince by Jennifer Moore

Summary from Goodreads:
1812

Southern belle Meg Burton is her parents’ last hope of avoiding financial ruin, and a distant cousin’s kind gesture seems an ideal solution: he will sponsor Meg for a London Season. The pursuit of a wealthy husband was not exactly how the bookish young woman had envisioned her first trip abroad—after all, what does a girl from Charleston, South Carolina, know about being a lady? Amidst the stunning gowns and extravagant balls of the ton, Meg feels like an imposter. Thankfully, she has one friend who knows her true self—Carlo, a handsome stable hand. Despite their difference in station, love blossoms between the unlikely pair, and Meg is sure of one thing: she wants nothing to do with the insufferable European aristocracy.

Prince Rodrigo de Talavera has lost everything to Napoleon. Jaded by war, he has become bitter and miserable—until he meets Meg, an American woman whose eccentric schemes and passion for life remind him what it is to laugh and to love. If only she knew him for himself and not as Carlo the stable hand. With the shadow of deception looming over their happy acquaintance and the dangers of war drawing ever more near, can Meg and Rodrigo find the courage to put aside their pretenses and discover if they can be loved as they truly are?

5 Stars

Received ebook from Publisher for an honest review

My Review:
My favorite book genre is historical fiction, especially the English Regency era.  This book falls right in to this time period, but also covers a topic with which I am unfamiliar.  The Prince from the title is a Spanish Prince who has fled Spain during the Peninsular War after Joseph Bonaparte has been made King by his brother, Napoleon Bonaparte.  Although the author is writing about fictional characters, she has placed them and referenced them to real historical events.  This interests me and causes me to look in to the subject further.  So I may be reading this book for entertainment, but I am learning about world history at the same time.  

I love the relationship development in this book.  I especially like Carlo and his interest in helping Miss Burton live out her gothic novel fantasies.  Miss Burton likes to be thrilled and scared, she likes to feel chills and goosebumps.  Carlo is sweet in his efforts to make her happy.  At the same time, Miss Burton's love of life and excitement help Carlo come out of his doldrums.  They fulfill each other's needs at a time in their lives where they each feel alone, even while being surrounded by many people.

I like this book a lot, but it is a bit predictable.  At times, I don't know how the author is going to resolve a conflict, but there isn't a lot of surprise in how it is resolved.  There is romance, adventure, some comedy and a satisfying ending.  

This book has a nice blend of history and romance, 2 things I really love.  And, because of that, I am going to look in to other works by this author, Jennifer Moore.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this book.

A Timeless Romance Anthology: All Hallows' Eve Collection

A Timeless Romance Anthology: All Hallows' Eve Collection by Sarah M. Eden, Annette Lyon, Heather B. Moore, Lisa Mangum, Jordan McCollum, and Elana Johnson

Summary from Goodreads:
Another addition to the popular Timeless Romance Anthology series. ALL HALLOW'S EVE is not to be missed. Romance, thrills & chills. Need we say more? 

In Sarah M. Eden’s mysterious novella OF GHOSTS AND GARDENS, if Enid Pryce has one downfall, it’s that she talks to the ghost in her garden, which doesn’t make her too popular among society’s elite. In fact, she returns to her home in Wales after a Season in Bath with not one offer of marriage. Deeming herself a failure at the nearly-spinster age of nineteen, she is pleasantly surprised when an English gentleman shows up in her garden, apparently intent on finding out more about the ghost. Burke Kennard, grandson of an English marquess, quickly becomes utterly charmed by the young Welsh woman, but the ghost in the garden is more likely to push them apart than pull them together. 

In Annette Lyon’s enthralling story IT’S YOU, when Charlie and Anna both see the ghost of Nanny Mae, they think they’re losing their minds. Anna tries to find out more about the ghost and uncovers a decades’ old family secret. One that separated two people in love. Now, the ghost of Nanny Mae must set her wrongs to right. As Charlie and Anna explore the past, and the truth of what happened, they discover that the mistakes of the past might lead to love of the future. 

In SOPHIA’S CURSE, a suspenseful novella by Heather B. Moore, Joan grows up in an abbey in France, believing that she is an orphan. A chance encounter with the foreboding owner of a neighboring estate, alters everything she’s understood about her parents. She discovers she’s an integral part of changing a decades-old curse, and that her life, as well as the handsome and intriguing Simon Rousseau’s life, are both in danger unless she makes an enormous sacrifice that will change the course of her dreams. 

In Lisa Mangum’s haunting story THE SIRENS’ SONG, we meet recently widowed Oliver, the lead physician on a luxury cruise liner traveling to Greece. He hopes that the change of scenery will help ease his grief over his deceased wife, Cate. After falling overboard, though, he is captured by a siren and taken to a mystical island. Through the sirens' song, Oliver is able to relive his memories of Cate—both the good and the bad—as long as he gives away his memories of her. But can he sacrifice his best memory in exchange for one last chance to say good-bye? 

In Jordan McCollum’s thrilling novella THE MAN OF HER DREAMS, homicide detective Alexandra Steen dreams about real murders before they happen, seeing the crime through the eyes of the killers. But the dreams never contain enough clues to save the victim before it's too late. Then one dream ends before a murder occurs—in a place she knows. She finds herself racing against time to prevent the deadly act, only to discover that the intended victim is a man she thought she’d never see again. Seven years might have passed since her breakup with Nick, but the years haven’t changed her feelings for him. Now, she must convince Nick that her dreams are real and find a way to prevent his death. 

In Elana Johnson’s chilling story THE GHOST OF MILLHOUSE MANSION, Naomi knows her crush on Colt Jennings is unreasonable. When he invites her to his reclusive mansion to restore an old wooden rocking horse, Naomi can’t resist accepting the job. The more time Naomi spends touring his home, the more interested she becomes in Colt. Until she sees a man in the library who vanishes into thin air. She thinks she’s losing her mind until Colt tells her about the ghosts he’s been seeing for years. 

4 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
This collection combines 3 historical stories with 3 contemporary stories.  I admit I lean toward liking historical fiction over contemporary.  It is a personal preference.  However, all 6 of these stories offer clean romance and a supernatural element.

In these stories we meet ghosts, we encounter years' long curses, and we are pulled in to the Greek Sirens' song. This collection has a spooky and mystical feel to it. I tend to like happy stories and even though these stories feel different, they still deliver stories that wrap up with a positive vibe and hope for future love.

I have read each of the A Timeless Romance Anthologies and this is the first one that had a story that brought full tears to my eyes. Bring the tissues for one of the stories.  You'll have to read all of them to find out which one.  It definitely affected me on a different level than the other stories.

The next collection to come out is the Under the Mistletoe Collection.  I look forward to reading this one in time for the Holiday Season.

AND, the creators have started a new All Regency Line of collections.  The first is coming in October and will be the Timeless Regency Collection: Autumn Masquerade. I am excited to have more of these anthologies to read as well as being introduced to "new to me" authors.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this collection.

Lord Fenton's Folly by Josi S. Kilpack

Lord Fenton's Folly by Josi S. Kilpack

Summary from Goodreads:
Lord Fenton is a gambler, a dandy, and a flirt—and he must marry or else he will be disinherited, stripped of his wealth and his position. He chooses Alice Stanbridge for two simple reasons: he once knew her as a young girl, and she is the least objectionable option available to him.

However, Alice has harbored feelings for Fenton since their first meeting ten years ago, and she believes his proposal is real. When she discovers it is not, she is embarrassed and hurt. However, a match with the most-eligible bachelor in London would secure not only her future but that of her family as well.

Determined to protect herself from making a fool of herself a second time, Alice matches Lord Fenton wit for wit and insult for insult as they move toward a marriage of convenience that is anything but a happy union. Only when faced with family secrets that have shaped Fenton’s life does he let down his guard enough to find room in his heart for Alice. But can Alice risk her heart a second time?

5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review

My Review:
You may have noticed that I really like to read.  This book is so good that I found myself reading while I was brushing my teeth.  I just couldn't put it down.  

Josi Kilpack has recently started writing for the A Proper Romance Line of Shadow Mountain books.  And, as you could tell from the beginning of my review, I LOVED this book!

As the story begins, I get a sense of who Lord Fenton is.  I put him in a category with other gambler, dandy, flirts that I've read about in other Regency books.  He is in fact, a gambler, a dandy, and a flirt.  But he is oh so much more.  I am surprised with where Josi Kilpack took this character.  It is not an angle I have read about before.  I appreciate that she found another side to a character that could have been very 2 dimensional.

Alice amazes me with her ability to continue when all looks so bleak.  She is able to match Lord Fenton's verbal jabs.  She is able to continue with grace when bullied.  And she takes great care of others when they need it, even when she is hurting.

I am pleasantly surprised by this story.  I love Regency books and some have a formula.  This one didn't follow that formula for me and kept me guessing as to how it would resolve.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this book.

Marrying Christopher by Michele Paige Holmes

Marrying Christopher by Michele Paige Holmes

Summary from Goodreads:
Having seen both his sisters Grace and Helen happily married, Christopher Thatcher is free to pursue his dream of life in America. With adventure in his heart and mind, he boards one of the first steamships set to cross the Atlantic in the record breaking time of only twenty-five days. Within the first two of those, his resolve—to avoid women and the complications they often bring to a man’s life—falters when he meets Marsali Abbott, a young woman with a past even more troubling than his own. Whether from years of habit protecting his sisters, or simply because he feels drawn to Marsali, Christopher chooses to help her and becomes her friend. As the truth about what awaits Marsali in America becomes evident, he is faced with a more difficult choice, one that will impact their lives far beyond four weeks together at sea.

4.5 Stars

Received ebook in exchange for an honest review.

My Review:
Ahhh, I love a good, clean romance.  This is the third book in Michele Paige Holmes' "A Hearthfire Romance" collection.  Although each of these three books can be read separately, I feel that they are best in order.  They are chronological and the characters do develop as the books go on.  

Christopher Thatcher is such a likable character.  I root for him in whatever his pursuits are from the beginning of the story.  I want to see him happy.  Marsali is much like Christopher.  She comes from a mixed background, both gentry and then poverty as a servant for her aunt and uncle.  Christopher wants to make it on his own, become his own man.  Marsali is the same.  She is finally escaping her aunt and uncle.  However, she has 4 years of indenture at the end of her trip.  From the very beginning of the story, from the moment these 2 meet, they find they have things in common, they develop a friendship, and then more. I enjoy watching their relationship develop.

I ache for these 2 characters when they arrive in America.  Through a series of unfortunate events, they are separated.  I hate seeing all of the conflict, but at the same time, I know that that is a part of the story and development of these 2 characters.  Sometimes I want to strangle some of the characters! Ugh!

One of the things I really love about these 3 books, is they have happy endings.  I don't consider this a spoiler because if you have read Michele Paige Holmes' books, then you know they will resolve in a positive way.  At the same time, I wish that the ending had a bit more to it.  I don't know what that bit more is, but I wanted more.  Maybe it is just that I didn't want this set of characters and their stories to end.

This author has other stories coming out as parts of collections.  I look forward to reading more by her.

Warnings: None

I would let my 17 year old read this book.