Title - Prelude to Camelot
Author: Cynthia Breeding

Astrala, the Grail Maiden, informs Myrddin of what he must do to ensure Arthur would be born. Myrddin enlists the aid of Morgan Le Fey to accomplish this. In exchange, Morgan would experience the mortal world as an invisible faerie by Myddin's side. (Upon his shoulder, to be a bit more precise.) Once born, Arthur is raised by foster parents who love him as if he were of their blood. None of them knew Arthur was the first born son of High King Uther.

Before she wed Uther, Ygraine gave birth to a daughter, Morgana. Morgana blames Uther for her father's death. Secretly, she began learning the dark arts for future revenge. When caught, Uther sent Morgana to a convent; however, this did not stop Morgana from learning the art of dark magic. It only made her slyer. After sneaking out one night, Morgana lures Arthur into the woods for a quick bedding. Neither knew the name of the other at the time. Of course, once pregnant Morgana was caught. Uther forced her to wed an old king. Yet even so, Morgana's scheming had only just begun.

Arthur eventually entered King Uther's army and the heart of the Arthurian lore truly began...

**** FOUR STARS! This story begins in the year 469 A.D. and concludes in the year 500 A.D. As the title suggests, readers follow the legend from shortly before the birth of Arthur until he is about to be crowned as High King. In my opinion, the characters of Gwenhwyfar and Morgana are developed the best. I feel that the author really captured their personalities. The story changes scenes often, because it must show what is happening in several groups of characters. Then there are times that characters from one group will merge with another. Therefore, the tale often reads in a narration-type of style. All-in-all, I found this to be an entertaining read and recommend it to all fans of Arthurian lore. ****

Title - To Desire a Devil
(Legend of Four Soldiers, #4)
Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

This story is set in London, England, and begins in October, 1765. Everyone believed that Reynaud St. Aubyn died seven years ago when his regiment had been massacred in the Colonies due to a traitor. In truth, he had been held captive, enslaved by Indians. His time in the Colonies had changed him, warped him. So when Reynaud stormed into Blanchard House (wild, unkept, and bellowing in French), no one recognized his as the earl.

Miss Beatrice Corning lives in Blanchard House with her uncle. Uncle Reggie was given the title, Earl of Blanchard, when news of Reynaud's death had been received. It is Beatrice who notices the slight resemblance to the portrait of the young lord. The dashing gentleman in the portrait has long held her attention. Now that the man is here, Beatrice finds herself even more attracted. It appears that Reynaud is drawn to her as well. She is the only person able to see past his savagery to the noble man inside.

Reynaud is determined to reclaim his lands and title. Beatrice's uncle is just as determined to keep them. Beatrice is caught between her loyalty to Uncle Reggie and to the man she is falling in love with. This also puts her in the line of fire, because someone wants Reynaud dead.

***** FIVE STARS! This is the last book of the quartet. As usual, the best was saved for last. Throughout the story, there were times Beatrice would convince Reynaud to tell a little bit more about his years in captivity. I must admit that I found these conversations to be both fascinating and dreadful. This story mimics the ear's settings and events so realistically, that I often forgot that I live in the Twenty-First Century. It is this talent of creativity that has placed Elizabeth Hoyt on my Must Buy list. *****

Title - If He's Sinful
Author: Hannah Howell

Set in London, England, 1788. Lady Penelope Wherlockes Hutton-Moore will inherit the house someday. Until then her step siblings live in luxury, while Penelope's bedroom is in the attic. Lady Clarissa Hutton-Moore wants to be a viscountess. Her brother, Charles, is practically buying her the title with Ashton, Viscount of Radmoor. Ashton needs money to keep his family out of debtor's prison. Lord Charles holds the markers of Ashton's late father. Clarissa's large dowry would see the markers gone and his family secure. Ashton believed the marriage with Clarissa would be tolerable, but then Ashton's friends took him to Mrs. Cratchitt's. Ashton did not know his "surprise", Penelope, was at Mrs. Cratchitt's against her will until he found himself surrounded by young boys and a gun to his head.

Ashton and his friends quickly learn just how vile Clarissa and Charles are. However, it does not change the fact that Ashton must wed Clarissa. Soon after, Penelope is shot. Ashton, his friends, and even his family band around Penelope and the horde of boys she takes care of. (The boys are the by-blows of Penelope's relatives. They reside at one of Penelope's bungalows, unknown by the Hutton-Moores.) It is said that the Wherlockes and Vaughns (Penelope's family lines) are considered eccentric, a little wild, and very reclusive. Turns out this is by necessity. Many Wherlockes and Vaughns are gifted with various abilities. Penelope's gift is to see spirits and she tries to help them move on.

The attraction between Penelope and Ashton grows into something much more. As Ashton tries to find a way out from under the thumbs of Clarissa and Charles, his friends and high society family members look out for Penelope and the (close to) dozen children she raises. And with the help of those children's special talents, perhaps things may actually work out.

***** FIVE STARS! OMG! An outstanding story that starts out with danger and only gets better from there. I found myself hooked by the end of the very first sentence. No kidding! Hannah Howell's magical talents are for creating villains that her readers love to hate, and in developing characters that readers cannot help but come to care for. I can hardly wait for the next Regency adventure! *****

Author: Hannah Howell
Title - If He's Wicked

Miss Chloe Wherlocke comes from a long line of people who are gifted. For many generations the Wherlockes and their cousins, the Vaughns, have been whispered about or called eccentric. Few actually believe the rumors. The rumors, however, are true. Chloe's gifts are "visions" and "knowing". When a vision informs Chloe that her sister will die from giving birth to a stillborn babe, she rushes to her sister's side. Neither sister is surprised as the event unfolds. They both know the next part of the vision will come in the form of men bringing another newborn infant in and swapping it for the dead one. The men do not know Chloe hides nearby. Following the orders of Lady Beatrice, they take the dead back and leave the live one to perish along with Chloe's sister. One of the men leaves proof of the live infant's identity, in the long shot that the dying woman may somehow live and raise the boy until he can reclaim his rightful heritage. Once all is done, Chloe comes out of hiding and takes the boy to safety.

Lord Julian Kenwood, Earl of Colinsmoor, knows that someone keeps hiring thugs to kill him. Yet having learned of his wife's many acts of adultery he is too hurt to care enough to do anything about it. Everyone in London seems to know about Lady Beatrice's many lovers. This time Julian is too drunk to fight off the hired thug. Rescue arrives just in time and he is taken away to heal.

Lord Sir Leopold "Leo" Wherlocke of Starkley and his cousin, Chloe, have cared for Julian's son for three years now. The child is named Anthony. Julian had believed his son had died at birth. Leo, with the Home Office, and Chloe tell Julian just how evil Beatrice and his uncle, Arthur, truly are. As Julian heals from his wounds, word spreads in town that he is dead. Julian and his allies plan the couple's downfall. At the same time, Julian and Chloe's attraction for each other deepens. The group faces more than just the adultery and attempted murders from Beatrice and Arthur. They will face spies, neglected tenants, and a mad man. Only then will Julian and Chloe be free to consider raising some "rabbits".

***** This is one of the best novels I have read all year. Everything I told in the synopsis is know very early in the story. Nothing is a spoiler. The author hides nothing. However, with so much happening there is no need for hidden plots or sub-plots. There are plenty of secondary characters with gifts for the author to use in future stories too. I have high hopes that this is the first of a series. I want more! *****

Title - The Lord of Merewood Keep
Author: C.H. Admirand

Lady Jillian's parents are dead. Her family holding, Loughmae Keep, had been lost to the Norman King. For three years now Jillian has toiled as a servant to the cruel mistress of Sedgeworth Keep. Lord Owen and Lady Haldana of Sedgeworth scheme to claim Jillian's inheritance.

When Owen has Roderick tossed in the dungeon and scheduled to hang, Jillian rushes to his brother, Lord Garrick of Merewood. She offers to rescue Roderick if Garrick would agree to wed her, freeing her from Sedgeworth. Once wed, Garrick and Jillian could petition King William to reinstate Loughmae Keep to them. This would solve Lord Garrick's problems too.

When Lord Garrick and Lord Owen meet, Garrick finds himself appalled at Jillian's abuse. Though she has suffered physical, mental, and verbal abuse for years, Jillian's heart has remained kind. Garrick cannot help but begin having warm feelings for such a lovely, brave, and stubborn lady. But once the vows are spoken, Garrick receives word that King William is about to grant Loughmae Keep to Henri du Guerre. Even though his own mother, Lady Eyreka, says Jillian is innocent of any betrayal, Garrick believes his bride knew her ancestral home would never be granted to him.

Winslow MacInness had been a mercenary in Owen's pay. The honorable Scot cares a great deal for Lady Jillian and looks after her. MacInness and his men are finishing up their duty time with Owen and vow their life-long fertility to Garrick. As trouble brews, MacInness and Lady Eyreka try to help the new couple cope and reconcile. But the problems are mainly Garrick's pride, his feelings of past guilt, and duty to provide for his family and people. Unless Garrick can deal with his own private burdens, everyone will lose.

**** FOUR STARS! If not for the numerous typos, this story would have gotten the full five stars from me. Either this story had no editor or the editor did not do his/her job well at all. Otherwise, this is an awesome medieval tale with interesting characters and lots of suspense. In my opinion, Lady Jillian spent way too much time recuperating from either exhaustion or wounds. I prefer my heroines not to swoon so much.

All-on-all, a wonderful medieval tale that will hold onto a reader's attention. I hope MacInness and Sara gets their stories told as well. ****

Title - Mistress by Mistake
Author: Susan Gee Heino

Set in Warwickshire, England. The year is 1816. Lord Dashford does not want to wed Claudia, but her father, Sir Victor Graeley, has the signed engagement papers. In hopes of changing Claudia's mind, the viscount convinces the world that he has thrown away his fortune on courtesans and gambling. Not even his mother knows that they are not really deep in debt as the world now believes. So when his mother, Lady Dashford, invites an heiress, Miss Evaline Pinchley, and her Aunt Bella for a short stay, he cannot blame her. His mother only wishes to help him. However, Lord Dashford is determined he will not succumb to the heiress or her scheming aunt.

The trust Evaline's father left for her is set up so that she receives it whenever she marries or reaches the age of twenty-five. Her mean Aunt Bella believes Evaline's twenty-fifth birthday to be five months away. In truth, Evaline has only just turned twenty-five. Evaline sneaks out to the garden - alone - to toast her birthday. The drunk heiress never recognizes the man she meets there is Lord Dashford; not even when she wakes - alone - in his bed the next morning.

Lord Dashford is surprised to learn that the servant from the garden is actually the heiress. He is still engaged to Claudia after all. But still, when Evaline refuses his marriage proposal he is both relieved and disappointed. The attraction between them is overwhelming. Things turn for the worse when Claudia and her father arrive to insist on a date for their wedding (within the month). Then, to cap it all off, a man from Evaline's past shows up, along with a guest, and the area becomes too flooded for anyone to leave. Lady Dashford's little visit of two ladies has turned into mad chaos.

*** THREE STARS! Here is a good debut novel from a new voice in the Regency Romance genre. The story has a sound plot and is executed with style. If you are looking for a realistic story, this is it. No danger lurking around the corners here. Instead, readers get a romance with hot bedroom scenes, scheming characters, and a hidden treasure subplot. This author shows lots of promise and I plan to keep a close eye on her future work. ***

Title - Touch Me (Blaze Historical)
Author: Jacquie D'Alessandro

Set in Little Longstone, Kent. The year is 1820. Thirty-two-year-old Genevieve Ralston has everyone in her small town believing she is a widow. Therefore, no one snubbed her for having a lover. For over a decade she was the mistress of Richard, the Earl of Ridgemoor. Though only his mistress, Genevieve thought Richard loved her as much as she did him. Then came the horrible moment, one year ago, when Richard learned of her arthritis. Richard told Genevieve that he could not stand the thought of her hands, with swollen joints, touching him. He broke off their affair. Richard did not even tell Genevieve in person that it was over between them. He sent the news in a letter. So when Genevieve received an alabaster puzzle box from Richard with a note for her to safeguard it until he arrived to retrieve it, she did not hesitate to solve the puzzle and snoop to find out what the box contained. Believing Richard may send someone else to collect the box, Genevieve hid the paper she had found within the box. If Richard wanted it back, he would have to come in person and face her. If nothing else, she deserved that.

Simon Cooperstone, Viscount Kilburn, had been a spy for the Crown for eight years. As the Earl of Ridgemoor was dying, he told Simon that his killer's name and important evidence could be found within the alabaster puzzle box he sent to Genevieve. Though his superiors knew him well, all evidence pointed at Simon as Richard's murderer. Given a fortnight to clear his name, Simon rented the home next to Genevieve and began to pass himself off as a simple steward on vacation.

With no way of knowing if Genevieve had a hand in Richard's death, Simon decided to seduce the former mistress and search her home for the box. He quickly learned there were several problems with that plan though. Genevieve refused to even touch anyone. She constantly wore gloves to make sure of it. In addition, the lovely lady refused to ever become close to a man again. Then there was the problem of her only servant, Baxter. The giant bald manservant overflowed in bulk and muscles. It was obvious that Genevieve and Baxter have long known each other. Baxter made sure Simon knew that he would be keeping an eye on him and gladly rip Simon into tiny pieces should he ever upset Genevieve.

***** FIVE STARS! Jacquie D'Alessandro doesn't just pen a barren road that eventually leads to a happily-ever-after ending. She paves a highway with several NON-rest stops of action and adventure. There is much more going on than I mention in my synopsis. More than once I had to remind myself to breathe! But it is more than simply all the danger and intrigue jammed into this single story that kept me devouring each page. It is also due to the steamy love scenes. Harlequin titled the books of this line "BLAZE" for a reason! This is a wonderful way to warm up on a chilly night. *****

Title - My Unfair Lady
Author: Kathryne Kennedy

Set in the year 1885. Summer Wine Lee grew up with her father in Tombstone, Arizona, a mining town in America. Even though she is now rich, her fiancé's upper crust family does not consider her to be an acceptable bride. To remedy this, Summer travels to London, England, with her friend, Maria Sanchez, and her Chihuahua, Chi-chi. Her intension is to be presented to the royal family. With the acceptance of England's highest-of-the-high, Summer can prove her worthiness.

Summer hires the Duke of Monchester (Byron) to teach her all things necessary to successfully complete her quest. However, Summer did not realize there would be so much to learn. Summer is used to carrying a knife (a gift from an Apache friend) at all times. Guns, loose women, and harsh language do not bother her. So Summer is amazed at how stifled the women in England are. English ladies cannot even touch anyone, unless she is presenting a properly gloved hand to be escorted to the dance floor. Summer must face the fact that she has her work cut out for her.

Monchester, who is used to intimidating others and has developed a talent to humiliate his prey, cannot shock or insult Summer, no matter how hard he tries. He even bluntly admits at their first meeting how much he despises all American women. Yet Summer is a constant surprise to him! If she is not totally shocking him, she is causing him to laugh aloud; something he cannot recall doing for years. All too soon, this American lady is changing how Monchester looks at her.

***** FIVE STARS! Historical Romances by Kathryne Kennedy always has something for everyone. This one has hot romance, suspense (someone is trying to kill Monchester), humor, and so much more. Summer's collection of adopted pets kept me constantly amused. She has a monkey, a vixen, an old cat that cannot use its hind legs so it gets around by using ... Never mind. Suffice it to say that I enjoyed the odd animals.

For the history buffs, the story tells much about history in America and England. Prince Albert Edward even makes several appearances. As I said, something for everyone. I loved every moment of Summer's story! The author, Kathryne Kennedy, is more than good. She is downright smashing! *****

Title - A Lady of Persuasion
Author: Tessa Dare

Sir Tobias "Toby" Aldridge's bride-to-be ran off to seek adventure. She has recently returned to London as the wife of Benedict "Gray" Grayson. Toby is still pondering how to achieve some revenge on the scoundrel who stole his bride when his eyes catch sight of a woman who takes his breath away. Toby decides to court the lady; however, she is seeking to wed a wealthy, powerful lord and become a lady of influence. This way she could help the needy. Sir Toby utilizes his talent for smooth debating to convince the lovely lady that should she consider him as a husband, she could and would be able to achieve her desires. Learning that the lovely lady is Isabel "Bel" Grayson makes her acceptance of his marriage proposal deliciously sweet, because Bel is the sister of Gray.

With just over two months until their wedding date, Toby must promise Bel anything she asks. Otherwise, Bel would break their engagement. This is how Sir Toby ends up promising to run for a seat in the House of Commons, though the very thought of possibly winning horrifies him. But as Toby's passion for Bel deepens into something more powerful, Toby must choose between a miserable political life or a miserable private life without Bel.

*** THREE STARS! An entertaining story that is perfect for warm, indoor reading on a rainy afternoon. Joss, Bel and Gray's widowed brother, is part of a romantic sub-plot with a physician's daughter. So readers will have the pleasure of two romances within this story. Tessa Dare's future as a romance writer looks bright indeed! ***

Title - To Catch a Bride (Devil Rides #2)
Author: Anne Gracie

Rafe Ramsey is the younger son of the late Earl of Axebridge. Since George, the current earl, is unable to produce an heir the task falls to Rafe. Rafe is furious about the marriage of convenience his brother is setting up for him. Rafe decides to leave England for a bit and perhaps cool off. As an excuse, Rafe offers to do a favor for his late grandmother's oldest friend, Lady Cleeve. Until recently, Lady Cleeve believed her son and granddaughter had died several years ago in Egypt due to plague. Now she has hope that her granddaughter may still be alive. Rafe goes to Cairo in search of the missing heiress. However, instead of a frightened young girl, Rafe finds a beautiful woman who is in hiding from something far more serious than an unwanted betrothal.

Ayisha has been orphaned and living on the streets for over six years. No longer is she the wide-eyed and innocent child she once was. She has managed to pass herself off as a young male street urchin. Should certain people learn of her gender or who her parents had been, Ayisha would find herself sold into a harem or worse. But this time Ayisha is being hunted down by an Englishman who is as determined to locate her as she is not to be found.

***** FIVE STARS! I cannot think of how to explain exactly how much I love this story. Should it ever become available in hardback, such as through a book club, I will instantly snatch it up. This couple clashes will against each other very often. It is a marvelous sight to behold. Author Anne Gracie has been added to my Must Buy list! *****

Title - Destiny's Captive (Captive #3)
Author: Kate Lyon

Texas, 1875. During his childhood he survived the raid at Baldwin Fort. The entire community had been massacred. Juan Delgado, one of the raid leaders, sold him to the Comancheros. For many years he lived with the Comanche. His name was Chikoba. Chikoba married. But his wife and their unborn son were trampled to death by soldiers. Many in the area have heard of the white warrior's fierceness against the soldiers, but he never harmed civilians. During Chikoba's vision quest, the Great Spirit tells him to return to where it all began - Baldwin Fort. Thus Chikoba puts aside the way of the People and once again wears the name of Jeremiah Baldwin.

Jeremiah returns to the site of Baldwin Fort and finds nothing is left of his past. The land now belongs to Señor Don Miguel Sanchez, the wealthiest rancher in the area. No one seems to know how he became owner of the land and Sanchez refuses to say. Then Jeremiah is attacked and left for dead.

Angelina "Angel" is another survivor from the massacre. Sanchez found her and raised her as his daughter. She has no memories of her horrible ordeal and loves Sanchez dearly. As she, Bull, and Little Bird tend to Jeremiah's wounds and hide him from Juan, her memories of the massacre begin to return. Jeremiah believes Sanchez led the attack long ago. Angel is determined to prove Sanchez's innocence. Meanwhile, Angel must deal with Juan's unwanted attentions.

***** FIVE STARS! Kate Lyon has written an exciting romance filled with the rich culture of the People and the undeniable passion of two hearts in love. The main characters have multiple problems to overcome, so I was constantly wondering what would happen next. This author has proven to me that she can write breathtaking action and romance, and still have her own distinctive flair shine through. Excellent! *****

Author: Tracy Anne Warren
Title - Seduced By His Touch

Lord John Byron "Jack" is the third son of a duke. The rake has never had any trouble charming a female into his bed. His life forever changes when he loses a large sum in a card game to a wealthy merchant, Ezra Danvers. Ezra and Jack make a deal. Ezra will forgive Jack's debt and give him over one hundred thousand pounds if he weds his daughter, Grace. But she must never learn of this arrangement. Jack must woo Grace until she falls in love with him and always make her happy.

Jack expects Grace to be ugly or have something wrong with her. Turns out that even though she is not beautiful, Grace is very pretty. She is taller than most females, but that only means Jack will not get a sore neck whenever he looks at her. The more Jack is in Grace's company, the more Jack's fondness for her grows. Then, only a few days before they are due to wed, Grace finds the contract between Jack and her father.

**** FOUR STARS! This plot has been done often in the past. Even so, the author has written a delicious story around it. Tall and bookish Grace is not perfect, head-turning beautiful, or have the blonde hair which is so in fashion for the year 1809. Instead, she has bright red hair, is well educated, conservative, and even paints natural subjects (such as flowers) that are published in folios. As the reader, I instantly connected with this common heroine. I could easily imagine myself walking a mile in her shoes since Grace is in no way tied to high society. I would especially recommend this story for reading on your vacation, such as at the beach. ****

Author: Tessa Dare
Title - Goddess of the Hunt

Set in the year 1817. For the last several years Henry Waltham has hosted an annual hunting party in the autumn for his three closest friends at Waltham Manor. The only female among them had been his little sister, Lucinda "Lucy". Little Lucy has adored Sir Toby Aldridge since the first gathering when he dubbed her his "Diana, Goddess of the Hunt". Lucy never went off to school or had a Season in London. Henry kept Lucy at home, her education taught by a never-ending-line of governesses. But then Henry wed.

Looking back, it seems to Lucy that Henry's marriage is what began all her current problems. Felix, one of Henry's three friends, followed Henry's example and has recently wed. As much as Felix's new wife and Lucy dislike one another, Lucy feels that she could simply ignore the spiteful woman. Problem is that the hag brought her sister, Sophia Hathaway, to the hunting party this year and Toby is so smitten by her that he plans to propose. Desperate to turn Toby's affections toward herself, Lucy decides to seduce Toby. She even read a book on how to do so. For practice, Lucy wakes up Jeremy Trescott, the sixth Earl of Kendall.

After eight annual hunting parties with Lucy, none of Henry's three friends see Lucy as the desirable young lady of marriageable age in which she has become. Yet all the gentlemen, including Henry, have known about Lucy's crush on Sir Toby. But when Lucy wakes Jeremy up in the middle of the night to practice kissing seductively with him, Jeremy knows the men have a real problem. The men decide that Jeremy should distract Lucy from Toby and Sophia by paying a bit of romantic attention to her. Jeremy dares not inform them that after Lucy's practice kisses his brotherly feelings toward her have changed. Then Lucy comes up with a plan for Jeremy to help her make Toby jealous by pretending to court her. What starts out as Jeremy's way to eventually help Lucy keep her pride once Toby proposes to Sophia turns into self-torture, because Jeremy has begun to crave Lucy's kisses.

**** FOUR STARS! Tessa Dare's writing talent shines through on every page. This story is so well written that I could easily feel Lucy's desperation and later her confusion about her feelings. Yet I also understood why Jeremy kept silent about his own troubling past, as well as why he felt he did not deserve Lucy. Those of us who were tom-boys in our youths will easily relate to Lucy's situation. I loved every minute. I look forward to reading Sophia's story, Surrender of a Siren. ****

Author: Tessa Dare
Title - Surrender of a Siren

Wanting to experience a grand adventure, real life and true passion, Sophia Hathaway jilts her fiancé and disappears. After packing up her paints and sketchbook, the pampered heiress assumes a new identity and secures passage on the merchant ship Aphrodite. Sophia pretends to be a governess named Jane Turner heading for Tortola to begin her new position. With these actions, Sophia knows she has been labeled as a fallen woman. She is about to learn that the real world is far different from the romantic fantasies she imagines.

Benedict "Gray" Grayson used to be a privateer. This is to be the ship's maiden voyage as a respectable merchant ship. No longer will Gray be a conscienceless scoundrel who sails the seas for profit and pleasure. Gray immediately knows that there is more to the lovely governess than meets the eye. He also understands that everyone is allowed their secrets. But when Sophia's perception, kindness, sass, and artistry begins to stir his heart, Gray simply cannot resist her.

***** FIVE STARS! Time wise, this story begins immediately following the ending of Lucy's tale, Goddess of the Hunt. Sophia was a secondary character in the previous book and I had been hoping she would get her own story told. I believe this adventure to be even better than the last. Author Tessa Dare has a wonderful writing style that allows the story to flow smoother than a calm day at sea. An enticing plot with engaging characters, this romance is pure delight. *****

Author: Deborah MacGillivray
Title - One Snowy Knight
(Dragons of Challon #3)

Set in Scotland, December of 1296. Noel de Servian's parents had died when he was but five-years-old. He was raised by the Earl Michael and grew up as a brother to the Challon siblings. Now the Challon brothers, including Noel, are known as the "Dragons of Challon". After long years of battles, the war weary dragons yearn to settle down and create their own families. Noel has been granted the title of baron and a small holding called Craigendan located in the rugged Northland. Eager to see his new home, Noel sets out during a massive snow blizzard. He ends up lost and face down in the snow. He is found by two children who go for help. The next thing he recalls is a beautiful woman shielding him from a wolf attack.

Lady Skena MacIain of Craigendan has seen too much of life's harsh realities to ever believe in wishes coming true. Her young twins, Andrew and Annis, insist the knight they found in the snow storm is the answer to their Yuletide wish. Though supplies are dwindling, Skena uses them to help save the knight. Unlike with her late husband, Skena finds herself drawn to Noel. The bond between them is so strong that it makes Skena nervous. Before Noel is fully healed, Sir Guillaume Challon arrives. Skena is shocked to learn Noel is the foster brother of Craigendan's overlord, not to mention he has come to take control of Craigendan.

As Noel heals, the bond between him and Skena continues to grow. The attraction is almost magical. But as the two begin to explore their feelings for each other, danger rears its ugly head. Someone is trying to kill Skena! When Skena informs Noel that she has been seeing glimpses of her first husband and that perhaps he was not really dead, Noel sets out to learn who is acting as the late baron's ghost. Noel knows for a fact that Skena's first husband is dead, because Noel's hand is the one that felled him. And though Skena claims she and her late husband never loved each other, how will she react when she told that her soon-to-be-husband is the man that killed her children's father?

***** FIVE STARS! Though this is the third book in the "Dragons of Challon" series, you do not have to read the previous titles to fully enjoy the story. The previous titles (A Restless Knight and In Her Bed) are about Skena's cousins. Each title is a stand-alone story. Those who have read the first two stories will feel as though they already know a bit about the main characters' personalities. The author made Noel and Skena even more real to me by giving the couple their own private jokes. (After all, every close couple I know have their own humorous quotes that makes them grin at each other or laugh, yet no one around them knows what is so funny.) These little touches endear the characters to me.

As with any good book, there is at least one villain so sneaky and vile that I could not help but love to hate. For me, this makes a book more interesting. I love it when I see the villain do horrible things to the heroine, because it makes me enjoy their capture so much more. This is a terrific addition to the "Dragons of Challon" series and I am happy to recommend it to fans of historical romances! *****

Author: Mary Balogh
Title - At Last Comes Love (Huxtable Family #3)

Duncan Pennethorne, the infamous Earl of Sheringford, left London five years ago after jilting his fiancé on their wedding day and running off with a married woman, Mrs. Laura Turner. Now Laura has been dead several months. Duncan plans to move into Woodpine Park in Warwickshire. Duncan has no doubts that his son, Toby, will love growing up there as much as he did. However, Duncan is cut off from his grandfather, the Marquess of Claverbrook, and Duncan returns to London to discover why. It seems Duncan has forgotten that he had promised he would wed before his grandfather's eightieth birthday. Unless Duncan weds a respectable lady within fifteen days, Woodpine Park would go to his cousin instead.

Margaret Huxtable is the sister of the young Earl of Merton. Margaret had only been a girl herself when their father died and she promised to take over the care of two younger sisters and one younger brother. Now the sisters have grown and are happily married. The brother has grown too and will soon be searching for a bride. Thirty-year-old Margaret has fulfilled her promise, but is now considered a spinster. While at the Tindell's ball, Margaret meets up with Crispen Dew, the man who had betrayed her and wed another. Now a widow, Crispen believes Margaret will jump at the chance to still wed him. Unfortunately for him, Fate steps in. Margaret collides with Duncan in the doorway, where he asks her to dance and to marry him - all in one sentence. A lie to Crispen has Margaret accept Duncan's offers for the dance and the proposal, on one condition: Duncan must woo her.

**** This is the third story of the Huxtable Family series. It is terrific to finally see the responsible sister get her own story told. (The brother's story will be next.) Over half the book deals with the fifteen days between Duncan and Margaret. The rest of the story is set at Woodpine Park, where a subplot that is read about in London takes off to become the main focus. This deals with the newly wed couple settling in and with Toby. I cannot say anything about that without major spoilers though. However, in my opinion, it is even more interesting than the time spent in London. The main characters from the previous titles of the series appear as secondary characters in this one, so if you have read those stories you will get to see how they are doing. This makes the story even more believable. I look forward to the brother's story! ****

Author: Sue-Ellen Welfonder
Title - A Highlander's Temptation

Set in the year 1350. Lady Arabella is the eldest daughter of Duncan MacKenzie, Black Stag of Kintail. After Arabella's father refused or frightened off all the suitors who had offered for her hand in marriage, Arabella decides to visit Seal Isles which had recently been added to her dowry to tempt new offers. Though the MacKenzies have had an ancient claim to the isles, no one has been there in a long time. With the support of her seer mother, Linnet, and Sir Marmaduke, Arabella is finally given permission to sail to Seal Isles.

When an unexpected attack from the ominous Black Vikings sink the ship, Arabella is rescued by Darroc MacConacher, chief to his people and keeper of Castle Bane. It had been the MacKenzies that led the raid (now known as the MacConacher Slaughter) which left most all his people physically scarred and drove them from their lands. Now Darroc finally has the means to extract the vengeance his people deserve. Arabella has no idea that this is the clan her grandfather ruined. Her charm and good heart quickly works magic on Darroc's people. Darroc desires the enchanting lady and must fight to keep his distance from her.

Due to interference from Mother Nature, compliments of a famous cailleach named Devorgilla, the MacKenzies and the MacConachers are isolated on their own lands. And Darroc now wonders if he will be strong enough to keep from falling in love with his enemy's daughter.

***** FIVE STARS! I do not normally read books about the Highlander clans, but occasionally the mood strikes and I pick one up. I am very happy that I chose this title to read. The main characters are well developed and the history between the clans is dark, yet intriguing. The author does not skimp on the secondary characters either. I came to care for several of them within both clans. I love the fact that even though Darroc has the right and desire for revenge upon the MacKenzies, his honor keeps him from venting this rage upon an innocent lass. The touches of magic add a mystical flavor to the story as well. Terrific! *****

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt
Title - To Beguile a Beast (Four Soldiers #3)

Helen Fitzwilliam has been the mistress of Algernon Downey, the Duke of Lister, for years. During that time, Helen has given birth to a daughter and a son. Lister has not come to Helen's bed for a very long time, yet refuses to let her go. Lister considers Helen and the kids as his property. If Helen even hints at leaving him, Lister takes the children away. Finally it is too much. With the help of Lady Vale, Helen and the children flee to Castle Greaves in Scotland. Helen is to pose as a widow and announce to Sir Alistair Munroe that she is his new housekeeper. Helen had been told the man was a recluse, but no one warned her of his ghastly scars of injured fingers. Unable to do anything but go forward, Helen must somehow convince the disagreeable man (she mentally addresses him as "Sir Beastly" due to his rudeness) to let her take the position of housekeeper. Every inch of the crumbling castle is caked with dust and grime. But this is the perfect place for Helen and the children to hide.

Six years ago Alistair had been charged with discovering and describing the flora and fauna of New England. It was a civilian position with the 28th Regiment of Foot. Due to a traitorous spy, the men walked into an ambush at Spinner's Falls. Alistair is one of only a few survivors. It was there he lost an eye and found the scars. Since no female or child can see him without screaming in horror, Alistair stays in his castle. The last thing he wants is a servant underfoot, much less two children. If only he did not find Helen so desirable or the children such a delight.

***** Elizabeth Hoyt loosely takes the foundation of the classic "Beauty and the Beast" fairy tale and spins a web of pure delight. Helen did what any good parent would by risking her life to remove her children from possible harm. But only a strong woman would be a match for Sir Beastly, right? As an added bonus, there is part of a short fairy-like-tale about the "Truth Teller" at the beginning of the prologue, each chapter, and the epilogue. I believe this story will be another sparkling diamond for the author's crown. Nothing less than magnificent! *****

Author: Victoria Alexander
Title - The Virgin's Secret

Enrico Montini found an ancient Akkadian seal with reference to the Virgin's Secret of the lost city of Ambropia. It is one of three seals that (together) would reveal the location of the city itself. When Enrico went to present the seal to the Antiquities Society he discovered it had been stolen and a false seal left in its place. Enrico was discredited and died shortly thereafter.

Gabriella, Enrico's sister, believes the seal was stolen by one of the Harrington brothers. While searching the Harrington's library, she is caught. The Harrington brothers are sons of the Earl of Wyldewood. After hearing Gabriella's tale, Countess Wyldewood insists they help Gabriella in her quest. Believing Gabriella alone in the world and in financial trouble, the countess offers her a room in their home. Nathanial "Nate", the youngest, agrees to help Gabriella. Nate and Gabriella had danced at a ball recently and their attraction to each other is demanding. So while residing in the same home they can not only keep an eye on each other, but also team up to learn the identity of the real thief and recover the seal to clear the Montini name. And perhaps, if Fate smiles upon them, Gabriella and Nate may take a leap of faith.

***** This is the first of a series about three brothers. Though they are sons of an earl, these brothers love to explore the world and discover artifacts, much like Indiana Jones. I can only hope the two other brothers' stories will be as exciting as this one is. The author created the heroine, Gabriella, to be loyal, brave, and incredibly intelligent. No wimpy lady for this exhilarating adventure. I could not help but admire the earl's entire family. Each member is totally unique in their own way. The author even goes so far as to give each their own set of quirks and personality. Victoria Alexander has outdone herself yet again! Brava! *****

Author: Suzanne Enoch
Title - Always a Scoundrel (Notorious Gentlemen #3)

Lord Bramwell "Bram" Johns is the second son of the Duke of Levonzy. Bram has always wanted to master every vice known to man, and if possible to create several new ones. He is already made a very good start too. Since the few men Bram will admit to calling his friends have recently gotten wed and reformed their wild ways, Bram has become bored. In an attempt to rid his restlessness Bram has started breaking into the homes of his peers. But while sneaking within the home of the Earl of Abernathy, Bram overhears the earl informing his daughter, Lady Rosamund "Rose" Davies, that she will marry the Marquis of Cosgrove at the end of the month. It seems Abernathy's heir, James, has gambled away ten thousand pounds that the family is unable to pay. Cosgrove will forgive the debt in exchange for Rose's hand. Bram knows Cosgrove better than anyone else. Lady Rose would not survive long once she was wed to the monster.

Rose never enjoyed being in Cosgrove's company, but now she actually loathes it. If the marquis were a decent man then she would not mind marrying him and would have done her best to be a good wife. However, it is fast becoming clear that Cosgrove intends to humiliate and even physically abuse her. Since it is obvious that her parents do not care, Rose decides to risk everything and accept help from Bram, a man who's heart is as black as her intended's is.

***** Suzanne Enoch makes being notorious fun! Bram really is as bad as he appears, so watching him reevaluate his life and actually try to be good is extremely entertaining. Do not open this book until you have plenty of time to dedicate to reading. I found it difficult to put down for even a few minutes. If you read the first previous books in the Notorious Gentlemen series, then you will be pleased to know that Bram friends are Sully and Phin. Bram helped them out during their stories, now they get to return the favors. Wickedly delightful! *****

Author: Emily Gee
Title - The Laurentine Spy

She was born dirt poor, below even the peasants. Dreading the life open before her, Saliel takes an opportunity to become a spy in the Corhonase citadel. With the money she earns Saliel could buy a better life for herself. She could have her independence and land with a small cottage by the sea. She becomes part of an elite spy group. She is only called Three whenever she meets with the others. Two is a servant and One is a nobleman. They meet secretly, deep under the citadel, within the catacombs. They are cloaked and wear hoods, keeping each ignorant of the others' identities. Only the Guardian knows their true names and faces. Up in the citadel, in the ballrooms and salons of the nobles' Court, she is believed to be Lady Petra.

After so long, Saliel's time of spying is almost over. Arrangements are being made for her departure. The only things left to do are to copy the third code book and disappear forever. But a sadistic Spycatcher is brought in. His pale eyes force people to speak the truth. Saliel is the only spy with the ability to lie to the Spycatcher. She keeps quiet as to how she accomplishes this. Should it ever become known that she has just a bit of magic, she would be burned at the stake.

**** This story is very much like a Historical Romance with small tad of magic thrown in. If you are looking for more magic than what seems to be hypnotizing, you will be disappointed. The setting is much like the Regency era of London's past. Saliel is the heroine of the story, but there is also a hero, Athan of House Seresin. Once out of the citadel, the story does not dwindle to a stop. On the contrary, it actually picks up and becomes even more exciting. The two spies must learn to trust each other and share their darkest secrets if they are to escape their pursuers. A believable story that shows prime examples of how far people may go for love and loyalty. ****

Author: Robyn DeHart
Title - Seduce Me (Legend Hunters)

Esme Worthington believes it to be her fault that she is on the shelf. After all, her mother had warned Esme that men did not want a woman who spoke her opinions or had any book learning. Esme is very knowledgeable about the legendary Pandora's Box. This is why Esme finds herself kidnapped by the Raven's men. The Raven is a ruthless treasure seeker. He hunts and steals antiquities for profit. Before Esme knows it she is unwillingly wearing a bracelet from the box. Each bracelet represents one of the curses. Esme's is cursed with Lust. She has about two weeks to figure out how to remove the bracelet before the curse kills her.

Fielding Grey used to work for the Raven. Now he is freelance. Fielding hunts treasure on his own, hiring himself out to clients who are collectors. When the members of Solomon's hire him to locate and retrieve Pandora's Box, Fielding realizes that this is his chance to infiltrate the club. Somewhere within Solomon's is the answer as to who is responsible for his father's death. Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on one's point-of-view, Fielding finds himself rescuing a damsel in distress. The longer Fielding spends in Esme's company, the more attracted to her he becomes. But is it real or a result of the curse dangling from her wrist? And how can he keep Esme safe from the Raven, help her figure out how to remove the bracelet, keep the box out of the wrong hands, as well as search for information about his father's death?

***** This is one of the best historical romances I have read this year. I have always been interested in the legend about Pandora's Box. Perhaps that is why I found myself unable to stop reading. I read the entire book in one night. (Who needs sleep?) The engaging plot and charming characters blend together for one intoxicating read. *****

Author: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Title - Tempted at Midnight
(Mayhem in Mayfair #4)

Lady Emily Stapleford knows that her father owes an enormous debt to the wealthy American, Mr. Logan Jennsen, and that financial ruin now threatens to crash down on the family's head. As the oldest, Emily understands that should she marry someone rich her family will be saved. However, Emily only wants to marry for love. Emily pens a romantic story about a female vampire, but every publishing firm rejects it. The story is wonderful. It is that London readers were not interested in a vampire heroine. Emily decides to create interest by dressing as a vampire and having one or two sightings around town. The stir would cause interest and sales with her novel, relieving her family of it financial troubles. Then she would not be forced to wed for money. The only problem is the beautiful (in a very manly way, of course) Logan Jennsen.

Logan knows Emily is up to something. But he is too busy with his own problems to worry about her at the moment. Logan has an arsonist targeting his business. Unknown to Logan, his past has returned. Once the evil man realizes Logan's interest in Emily, the attacks cease on Logan's business and begin on the woman he is growing very, very fond of.

***** Though I hate to see the series come to an end, I love seeing all four couples interact in this installment. In my opinion, the author has saved the best for last. I actually devoured this story in one sitting. To stop reading was simply NOT an option. Each character is unique and I feel as though I know them personally. An entertaining romp that I will never forget. Do you know what that makes you? One lucky reader if you pick up a copy. *****

Author: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Title - Seduced at Midnight
(Mayhem in Mayfair #3)

Lady Julianne Bradley's parents could easily be called cold-hearted and uncaring. In fact, those are the nicer terms one could use to describe Lord and Lady Gatesbourne. Being the daughter of titled parents, Julianne always knew her marriage would be arranged by her father to the one with the highest title and wealth. Now that time has arrived. Instead of going through the motions of posting the bans and a long engagement to prepare for a lavish Society wedding (and help her to mentally prepare for a long, loveless life) Julianne learns that she is due to wed the Duke of Eastling within two weeks and immediately be stashed away in Cornwall. Though resigned to her fate, Julianne longs for love and passion. She wants what two of her friends were lucky enough to find in their marriages. When thinking of her imaginary love, Julianne always conjures up the image of Bow Street Runner Gideon Mayne. She met Gideon two months ago when he was investigating a series of murders plaguing Mayfair. His image is what Julianne sees whenever she devours the latest novel her bookclub is reading. You see, the Ladies Literary Society of London did not read boring, but acceptable, books. Instead, the books they chose to read are very sexually explicit.

The topic on everybody's tongues these days is about a murdering ghost robber. All the victims are wealthy ladies, found dead with their valuables missing. And it seems Julianne is next on the killer's list. Gideon is hired by Lord Gatesbourne to guard Julianne until she is safely wed and Eastling's responsibility. Gideon accepts, though he finds himself strongly attracted to Lady Julianne. While Gideon protects her from a murderer, who will protect him from Julianne?

***** A story by Jacquie D'Alessandro is to be slowly savored like fine wine. This author excels in making readers feel the same emotions her characters do. These emotions are so strong at times that they may punch you harder than brandy. And this latest installment of the Mayhem in Mayfair series is no exception. From beginning to end, this tale over flows with romance, passion, humor, and danger. I came to care deeply for the main couple (even the huge guard dog and the tiny ankle biter). I dreaded seeing the number of pages left to read dwindling and found myself reading slower and slower. Now if only I can make it until this author's next release. Astounding! *****

Author: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Title - Confessions at Midnight (Mayhem in Mayfair #2)

Carolyn Turner, Viscountess Wingate, has been in mourning for too long. Her recently wedded sister, Sarah, has convinced her to at least attend some parties and join the Ladies Literary Society. Not wanting to read the boring tales most other ladies do, they choose "Memoirs of a Mistress". Shocked as she is, Carolyn reads the book - many times. Soon Carolyn finds herself succumbing to the seductions of Daniel Sutton, Earl Surbrooke. She is positive it is only due to her steamy reading of late; however, Carolyn yearns to feel alive again. Her answer is to begin an affair with the handsome rogue.

Daniel has been besotted by Carolyn for over a decade, but she had been wed to Edward, a friend of his. Therefore, Daniel has kept his distance. Now that Carolyn is a widow, he decides to get her out of his system by getting the lovely widow into his bed until such time he grows weary of her. But Daniel is about to learn that falling arse over backwards in love is not something you plan for.

**** Each chapter begins with a sneak peak into the scandalous book Carolyn and her group is reading. Keeping in mind the era this story is set in, I am amazed the book was not more notorious with the gentlemen of the Ton. I would think they would have been trying to figure out who the anonymous lady author is and exactly which gentleman she dallied with. There are more love scenes than normal, but if you are not reading a "romance" novel for the romance then you are choosing the wrong genre to browse. There is danger in the story, though not a lot. Seems someone is killing Daniel's ex-lovers, however, the intrigue does not start as soon in the story as I would have liked. If you want something to put you on the edge of your seat, go elsewhere. This story, in my opinion, is great for light reading, such as while you are on the beach or in the mountains. Pick up a copy and tuck it into whatever suit case you plan to use on your next vacation. Excellent warm weather reading. ****

Author: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Title: Sleepless at Midnight (Mayhem in Mayfair #1)

Matthew Devenport, Marquess Langston, must marry an heiress within the next few months. However, a trip to London and courting ladies would take time away from a second vital task. His solution is to invite some gentlemen, unwed ladies, and chaperons to Langston Manor for a house party. Matthew could look over the ladies, court the one he chooses, and never have to cease his search in the garden. (But his search would have to be done late at night when no one would see.)

Problem is that even though the beautiful heiresses are exactly what he needs, Matthew is drawn to Viscountess Carolyn Wingate's plain companion, Miss Sarah Moorehouse. Sarah is not only plain, but wears spectacles. She is Lady Carolyn's sister, but a lowly physician's daughter and no heiress. Matthew would never have noticed her except he unexpectedly meets her in the garden as she sketches. Their brief exchange is anything but boring. No weather, no fashion, but a REAL and intelligent conversation. Sarah quickly becomes everything Matthew wants, but cannot have.

All the ladies, minus the chaperoning mothers, form the Ladies Literary Society of London. Instead of poetry and other novel approved by Society, they decide to read "Frankenstein". During a lively discussion, they decide to create the perfect man - figuratively, of course. Each is assigned a task. Sarah is to pilfer a shirt from their host, Matthew Devenport. When Sarah spies Matthew in the garden, at midnight, with a shovel, her imagination goes wild.

While Sarah and Matthew are distracted by each other, someone else is watching. Someone who wants what is buried in the garden. Someone who has already killed once for it and may again.

***** Jacquie D'Alessandro brings enticing characters and drama to her readers once again. Sarah Moorehouse is unique and a refreshing change from normal Society ladies. Romance, drama, and a bit of danger make this novel spectacular. I cannot recommend this one highly enough. DO NOT MISS IT! *****

Author: Connie Brockway
Title - So Enchanting

As a child, Grey Sheffield's father had dragged him from séance to séance to communicate with his dead sister, ruining the family's fortune and name, while all young Grey could do was watch, helpless and infuriated and incapable of preventing it. It is no wonder that, once an adult, Lord Greyson Sheffield became a predator, chasing down and exposing charlatans, destroying their reputations and their livelihoods in a court of law. This time Grey exposed Alphonse Brown and his wife, Francesca, as the frauds they were. Alphonse escaped and fled from London and soon afterward died in an accident. Francesca never left London. Very shortly after her husband died, she disappeared.

Francesca never wanted to help Alphonse in his scams and she did not mourn his death. But when Alphonse courted her he did not seem to care that all animals responded to her emotions. She thought he actually loved her. Now with his death, Francesca was adrift and wondering what she should do now. Her family wanted nothing at all to do with her. Fate comes in the form of Colonel Chase. The colonel knew of Francesca's affinity with animals having known her long ago. The colonel's young daughter, Amelie, has begun showing signs of paranormal abilities. Colonel Chase offers Francesca a position as Amelie's governess. She accepts on the condition that no one knows of her past. Francesca Brown became Fanny Walcott.

Colonel Chase, Amelie, and Fanny settle down in the small town of Little Firkin in Scotland. Diagnosed with a terminal disease, Colonel Chase set up his will, naming Amelie's legal guardian to be Lord Collier should he die before she reached her majority. The will also states that when Miss Chase reaches the age of twenty-one AND provided she is still living in the town of Little Firkin, she will inherit the bulk of Colonel Chase's estate. Those who were residents of Little Firkin at the time of Colonel Chase's death and are still residents upon Miss Chase reaching her majority will divide a huge sum amongst them. Shortly thereafter, Colonel Chase dies. The residents are not thrilled with having Amelie, who is considered to be a witch, living among them. However, for the money they tolerate her and the governess, Fanny Walcott.

Six years pass. Lord Collier receives a letter stating that Amelie Chase's life may be in danger. He sends his son, Lord "Hayden" Augustus Collier, and Lord Grey Sheffield to Little Firkin to learn whether Amelie's life is actually in danger or not. Grey is surprised to see Francesca with Amelie and instantly believes Fanny to be performing a scam of some sort. Grey cannot help but feel the same attraction to Fanny as he did six years ago. Grey also finds it to be refreshing to be with a lady who is sick of subtlety and equivocation. Fanny speaks her mind and challenges Grey over just about everything. Hayden is too smitten with Amelie to bother noticing the sparks between Grey and Fanny. The four begin brainstorming to figure out who send the letter to Amelie's guardian and why anyone would risk harming the girl and losing a fortune.

***** An exhilarating ride full of wit, romance, and a bit of magic. Each character is well developed and watching Grey and Fanny have heated arguments (that often become funny) is so much fun! I hated to see it end. Perhaps Amelie or her offspring will get a story. I can only hope. *****

Author: Julia London
Title - Highland Scandal (Scandal #2)

It is the year 1807. The situation in London is rather tense with the Delicate Investigation under way. That is what people are calling the investigation into the princess's behavior. The Lords Commissioners are examining the accusations against the princess. Most of them are untrue. A wrathful Prince of Wales (George) is hauling in anyone believed to have shared the princess's bed.

When Jankin "Jack" MacLeary Haines, Earl of Lambourne, is accused of adultery with the Princess of Wales, he flees to his native Scotland. Jack believes that George would soon come to his senses and realize that Jack would never have committed the treasonous offense. Once the ridiculous charges were dropped, Jack could return to his London home. Instead, George hires Scottish bounty hunters to search Scotland for the earl. The men that finally capture Jack take him to their laird, Carson Beal. Carson blackmails Jack into handfasting his niece, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Drummond Beal. A handfast is an old Highland custom - a marriage lasting a year and a day, unless both partners agree to make it a lifelong vow. Lizzie may be beautiful, but she is a hellion.

Lizzie is forced to handfast to the earl by her uncle, Carson. Carson is using the handfast to ruin her chances of a respectable marriage with Gavin Gordon of Glen Cochill. Carson claims it is due to an old family feud, but Jack believes there is another reason the laird wants Lizzie and her sister to keep living in poverty at Thorntree. As Jack ponders it all, he also begins to thaw Lizzie's attitude.

***** I must say that Lizzie's unintelligent attitude at the beginning was a bit too much for me. She kept ignoring Jack's sound advice and making matters worse. (As my mother would say, "She was cutting off her nose, despite her face.") That is the only time Lizzie grated on my nerves and I did not think it was irritating enough to subtract even half a star. This tale began with Jack running from bounty hunters. Needless to say, that caught my attention immediately. This story kept me glued as the author toyed with my imagination like a child with building blocks. I would be enthralled by a conversation as the main characters brainstorm what to do, when suddenly I would find myself laughing out loud as something ridiculous happens or is said. Ingenious! *****

Author: Catherine Kean
Title - A Knight's Temptation (Knight's series #3)

Set in Moydenshire, England. In Summer, 1183, an eight-year-old Leona Ransley was tied to a tree against her wishes by her brother and his new friend, Aldwin Treynarde. The boys were pretending to be knights and planned to bravely rescue Leona, their damsel in distress. But the boys' fun became dangerous when, as they vanquished their invisible foes out of sight from her, Leona became covered in a swarm of bees. For twelve years Aldwin heard nothing and believed his actions had killed an innocent maiden.

In Summer, 1195, Aldwin Treynarde is a loyal servant of Geoffrey de Lanceau, lord of Branton Keep and all of Moydenshire. Aldwin is ordered by his lord to retrieve a stolen ruby pendant before it falls into the hands of the Baron and Veronique. Baron Sedgewick was sent to the king's dungeon for plotting to kill de Lanceau and Lady Elizabeth's sire, as well as his cruel deceptions that led to the death of de Lanceau's father eighteen years prior. The baron's conspirator, de Lanceau's former courtesan by the name of Veronique Desjardan, was also imprisoned for trying to poison and stab de Lanceau. Somehow, they escaped. They were never recaptured. De Lanceau once heard they had fled England for Normandy, but this was never proven. For years, there was no word of them. Now they have returned to Moydenshire and are once again plotting against de Lanceau.

Lady Leona Ransley, trying to help her depressed father and the people of Pryerston depending on him, intercepts the ruby pendant before it reaches Veronique and wants only to hand it over for the reward. Upon meeting, Aldwin believes the hooded lady to be a courtesan with information on the whereabouts of the Baron and Veronique. Aldwin takes the mysterious woman hostage, meaning to deliver her and the pendant to Lord de Lanceau. Not only does Leona NOT want to go with Aldwin, but dangerous people pursue them. And when Aldwin realizes who the mysterious lady is, he knows that he has one last chance to protect her.

***** I am not a big fan of stories with knights in them, but there are a handful of authors that are an exception simply because they write the stories so well that I cannot resist! Author Catherine Kean is one of those few. The characters are so realistic because the author shows their flaws. They are not perfect. They are human. They are believable. Another thing I hate is when the main characters are just hard-headed or the wedge between the two is due to a series of miscommunications. I want to smack those upside their heads. I found none of that nonsense here. Everything in this story could have actually happened. The tale does not slow down in the middle either. I could not bring myself to stop reading long enough to fix dinner. (I ordered pizza and kept on reading.) Catherine Kean writes dazzling and unforgettable stories. *****

Author: Sarah Stanley
Title - Star-Crossed Summer

Set in 1815. Jane had been a soiled dove lucky enough to marry wealthy Esmond Tremoille. Upon Esmond's death, Jane made sure she would get everything by doing away with the lawyer and torching his office. But rumor has it that Esmond had drawn up another will, revoking the one Jane has and leaving all to his daughter, Elizabeth "Beth". Jane had tossed Beth out last year and waits for her year of bereavement to be done so she can wed Lord (Thomas) Welland.

Sir Guy Valmer of Greylake is determined to claim Tremoille House, which had once belonged to his family. He needs only to find the second will and then marry Beth, by force if need be. Locating Beth is the harder of the two, because she knows Sir Guy is hunting her.

Beth had come across the dead body of the man taking Jane's money to the bank. Though Beth did not kill the man, she did steal the money. She leaves half the money for Jake Mannacott, the blacksmith she had been with since Jane kicked her out. With the other half, Jane goes to London. When Sir Guy finds her in London, Beth flees to the coast of Exmoor and leases the Dower House. It is there Beth meets wealthy landowner Landry Haldane. Once Beth feels safe, she allows herself to be with Landry even though she secretly longs for Sir Guy. Unknown to Beth though, Sir Guy has finally found her again.

***** Author Sarah Stanley keeps the story realistic to its time setting. I never found a flaw, though I admit that there are a bit too many coincidences. The secondary characters are almost as well developed as the main characters. Each personality has several layers, much like a real person. The story so well written that I found myself hating the wicked stepmother, and loving every moment of it, only to later actually start feeling a bit sorry for her. (Just a bit though.) This title is can work as a stand-alone story, however, if you do not know that there is to be a sequel released (Midwinter Marriage, May 29, 2009) you will not feel totally satisfied. It ends in a good spot, but leaves a few strings dangling. Be warned that this book is hotter than your average historical romance. All-in-all, Sarah Stanley has proven herself to be a terrific writer and I eagerly look forward to another story by this amazing author. *****

Author: Emily Bryan
Title - Vexing the Viscount

It has been over a decade since they had sparred with play swords and she had scarred his chin. Yet Daisy Drake recognized Lucian Beaumont, Viscount Rutland, the instant she saw him again. The pair speaks only briefly before Lucian enters a meeting with the Society of Antiquaries. Lucian has discovered ancient Roman relics and hopes to gather a partner or two for funding. However, his father is still held accountable for the South Seas Company scandal, so no one will take the risk ... except Daisy. Problem is that Lucian's father blames Daisy's uncle for the doom of the South Seas Company because the man refused to invest. Should Lucian accept funding from any Drake, life with his father would become even more unbearable.

Daisy's great-aunt, Lady Wexford "Isabella", used to be a highly sought after courtesan. For over a month now Daisy has been reading in Isabella's library. Being "on the shelf" meant she could do as she pleased, within reason of course. It is in this library Daisy found the unpublished memoirs of Mademoiselle Blanche La Tour, a French courtesan. With Isabella's approval, Daisy dons the guise of Blanche and joins her great-aunt's masquerade party. As Blanche, Daisy becomes Lucian's partner. Not only does Daisy become his business partner, but "Blanche" also promises to teach Lucian how to kiss and please a lady. Blanche's memoirs were very detailed so Daisy would have no troubles. At least that is what Daisy told herself. Yet any time Lucian touches her, Daisy is hard pressed to remain in character.

**** There is more than one charade going on in this story. Daisy by day, Blanche by night, and Miss Clavenhook whenever Lucian's father is near. (Lucian's idea.) There is also a pair of treasonous men after the Roman treasure. It all adds up to one of the most wickedly fun reads I have had in quite some time. Terrific! ****

Author: Cathy Maxwell
Title - A Seduction at Christmas
(Scandals & Seductions, Book 1)

Dominic "Nick" Lynsted, Duke of Holburn, has been hunting the Spaniard named Andres for over nine years. Back then, after a night of drunken debauchery, Nick had woken to find his priceless signet ring stolen - along with bits of clothing. Nick had still not shaken off the effects of the night when he spied what could not be anything other than an oracle. After nine years he could still hear her say "Beware innocence." It was advice Nick took to heart. Unfortunately it was the only advice he took. Nick began gambling and soon lost his fortune. Now Nick believes that his only hope of salvation is to find that ring. To this end, Nick goes to an arranged meeting in a private room at The Swan's Next. Nick expects to capture Andres as the man enters the room. Instead he finds his hands filled with a lovely lady from his past.

Fiona Lachlan had been born a magistrate's daughter. She met Nick at a ball but left shortly thereafter to help her brother and his new wife escape London before they could be captured. It has been a long time since then. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Fiona is penniless and needs funds to keep a roof over the heads of herself and a big wolfhound named Tad. For twenty pounds Fiona agrees to help a courtesan named Hester teach an ex-lover a lesson. Fiona is to slip an elixir into the man's drink to entice stomach pains only. Instead of the man Fiona expects to be in the room, it is occupied by Nick. They quickly find themselves on the run from assassins.

***** Non-stop action from the first page until the last. I could not put the book down. Of course the heroine, Fiona, is putty in Nick's hands she still has sense to keep her distance. Fiona had been violated a year prior and wants nothing to do with men. This makes for some interesting reading because the hero has his work cut out for him to win the heroine's affections. Nobody writes Regency Historical Romances like Cathy Maxwell. Pure bliss! *****

Authors: Stephanie Laurens, Mary Balogh, Jacquie D'Alessandro, Candice Hern
Title - It Happened One Night (4 Novellas)

The Fall of Rogue Gerrard by Stephanie Laurens
Lydia Makepeace needs to infiltrate the home of Lord Alconbury in order to retrieve a letter her sister had written. Problem is that Lord Alconbury has several guests and nightly orgies that do not end until past dawn. After scoping out Alconbury's home one evening, Lydia returns to the inn and is shocked to see Lord Gerrard "Ro". Perhaps Lydia can get a bit of help. **** A bit of adventure with this romance - and who would not enjoy that? ****

Author: Victoria Alexander
Title - Seduction of a Proper Gentleman
(Conclusion of Last Man Standing saga)

Set in England, the year 1854. According to a legend, five hundred years ago this very season two border families, one Scottish and one English, were supposed to be joined in marriage to end the years of violence between them. But the marriage never occurred. An old woman, who had lost everyone she loved to the bloodshed, was furious that it would continue. She cast a curse on the families involved. If they did not join in marriage by the end of five hundred years, both families would cease to exist and terrible, dreadful things would happen.

Lady Kathleen MacDavid is the widow of Sir Kenneth. She is the granddaughter of the dowager Countess of Dumleavy, the niece of the current earl, Malcolm, and his sister, Hannah. Kathleen did not believe in the curse until recently and now seeks to wed Oliver Leighton, the Earl of Norcroft, to break the curse. Though Kathleen has come to accept this marriage between the two families as inevitable, she is still reluctant and uneasy. Kathleen and Hannah travel via train to the country, where Oliver is spending time at Norcroft Manor with his mother, Lady Norcroft (Edwina). Hannah, who dabbles with magic, wants Kathleen to pretend to lose her memory. When Kathleen refuses, Hannah casts her spell.

Oliver Leighton and his mother are surprised when the unconscious is brought to Norcroft Manor by two locals and a lady en route to Lord Darlington's current party. When the lady finally awakens, it is without her memory. The doctor is sure the memory will return eventually. Until then Edwina insists the lost lady remain at the manor. Oliver is suspicious and doubts the memory loss; however, it only takes a few days and tests to totally convince him. She is given the temporary name of Kate. Oliver cannot help but become smitten by the lady.

Exactly one week after Hannah's spell was cast, Kate wakes up with her full memory. But how will she convince Oliver of a curse, much less of magic? And once Kathleen/Kate tells everything, will Oliver believe her or hate her?

***** This is the last story in the The Last Man Standing saga. I dreaded seeing it end. Author Victoria Alexander breathes life into her characters and I feel as though I know them well. I will miss these friends terribly. However, this also means that the author is free to begin a new trilogy and I have no doubt I will feel as though I am making new friends. I have rarely found an author that can create such wonderful people, loosely link them all together in some manner, and do so in such a way that it all seems believable.

The couples from the previous novels are mentioned briefly at the beginning, to help refresh the memories of readers. Afterward, the entire story focuses on the main couple. There are some secondary characters, Oliver's cousins, who enter the story mid-way. I cannot help but wonder if these three female cousins will be the next trilogy. I can hardly wait to see. All-in-all, this is a light and romantic read that I found to be totally delightful. Brava! *****

Author: Patricia Grasso
Title - Enticing the Prince

Set in London, 1821. Katerina Pavlova Garibaldi, the Contessa de Salerno, creates priceless jewelry. This is how she supports her family. Five years ago her sister, Alina, died while giving birth to a baby girl. Alina died with the name of Prince Drako Kazanov on her lips. Katerina and her brother, Hektor, do not know if Alina was trying to point an accusing finger at Drako or wanted his help. Their father and another sister, Ilya, died around the same time. Within a scant day, Katerina's family had been destroyed and she was determined to have vengeance. When several members of the Kazanov royal family come to London, Katerina has her chance.

Prince Drako Kazanov is enticed by Katerina upon sight. The lady is giving him the cold shoulder even though he can tell she is attracted to him. The arrogant aristocrat wants her in his bed and is sure the chase will be a delight; however, Drako never thought he may become smitten with Katerina. As the two circle each other warily, Society watches in amusement. But the Blonde Brigade is seething with jealousy and have plans of their own.

Soon there are attempts on the lives of Katerina and Drako. Alexander Blake, the Marquis of Basildon, and Raven Flambeau, an amateur sleuth with the ability to receive impressions from objects, begin investigating the murder attempts. Raven entices her way into the Blonde Brigade in order to ferret out any possible clues. By doing so, her sisters consider her to be a traitor and Raven must wonder how long she can hold onto her charade.

***** This is part of the author's Prince titles series. Alexander and Raven have an ongoing Slasher investigation. There are even some secondary characters in this tale that were main characters in previous ones. Though each title is a stand-alone story, they also seem to over-lap each other. So if you read the other books by Patricia Grasso, you cannot help but feel as if you are part of the "In" crowd. The best part of this particular story is, in my humble opinion, the spectacular ending. No peeking! *****

Author: Gail Ranstrom
Title - Unlacing Lilly

With no father to care for her mother or sisters, Lillian "Lilly" O'Rouke's family has had it rough. Cora, one of the sisters, had been murdered not too long ago, one of the victims of the Blood Wyvern Brotherhood. The Brotherhood would abduct ladies to be tortured and then sacrificed. The Brotherhood would have done the same to Gina and Bella O'Rouke, but for their timely rescue. (In Bella and Andrew Hunter's story titled "Lord Libertine". Bella married Lord Hunter and is happy; however, Gina has withdrawn within herself. To support and protect her family, Lilly accepts the marriage proposal from Edward Manlay, the Marquis of Olney. She has no idea of his horrid reputation though. But right after Edward's mother loans Lilly the Rutherford Sapphires and only moments before she is to walk down the aisle to wed, Lilly is kidnapped and a forged note left for the groom.

Devlin Farrell is the illegitimate son of a duke and desires revenge for his mother's murder. Since neither the duke, nor his heir, seems to care about anything but the family name, Devlin decides that scandal and public humiliation would be best. To do this Devlin kidnaps the bride and leaves a note informing Edward that he has been jilted. Devlin only intends to keep Lilly hidden a few days and to return Lilly to her family, unsullied. He never stops to think about Lilly's ruin, even though she is still chaste. To make matters worse, the resurgence of the Brotherhood has begun and a few low class ladies have already disappeared. Devlin had a hand to stopping the Brotherhood before, along with Andrew, Lilly's brother-in-law. Now Devlin must return Lilly, somehow make things right for her, accept that he has probably lost a close friend in Andrew, and help stop the Brotherhood all over again. Can Devlin forfeit his desire for vengeance in order to achieve his desire for Lilly?

***** Author Gail Ranstrom has quickly become one of my favorite Regency authors to date! After you read this story, or Lord Libertine, you will understand why. It is no wonder to me that the author is getting more and more fans. Ranstrom knows drama and she knows it well. Readers are kept enthralled not only the drama between the main characters, but also with sub-plots. The story never slows down in the middle and the secondary characters (gypsies are but a few) are fascinating. Highly recommended! *****

Author: Minda Webber
Title - The Daughters Grimm

Though beautiful and titled, the daughters of Baron Grimm face, well grim, prospects in the marriage department, since they are not wealthy. Their mother, however, is obsessed with getting her oldest two girls married well and hopefully, but not necessarily happily. Greta and Rae find themselves vying to catch the eyes of every baron, prince, duke, etcetera near and far. Yet, when their prince or barons do come, the days ahead seem to be ones that are anything but fairytale like, at least, not the Disney versions. They might look forward to as much joy as one of Anderson's tales, unless they can do something to break through to their less than joyful husbands' hearts.

*** Though less replete with hidden puns than her prior books, there is still a great deal of fun to be had here. Dual stories are well balanced as both Rae and Greta pursue their goals, matrimonial and otherwise. Most of the laughs come from their aunt, who would make an ideal wicked stepmother in any tale. ***

Author: Jackie Ivie
Title - A Knight Well Spent

Set in Scotland, 1141. King David sits upon the throne. Formidable knight Rhoenne Guy de Ramhust has been gifted a fiefdom. As liege lord, Rhoenne has the difficult task of taming the Highland people that live there. Rhoenne arrives and receives the warm welcome of a lance in the leg before he even reaches Tyneburn Hall. (In Rhoenne's absence, his half-brother, Brent, has been in charge and ignoring the orders left for him.) Rhoenne would have expired had he not been found by a lovely healer with one brown eye and one green eye. Once tended, Rhoenne wanted her name and residence so he could send payment. She wished only to be forgotten. Yet as Rhoenne continued his ride to Tyneburn Hall, he could not get the image of the healer out of his mind.

Soon afterward Rhoenne finds Brent entering the hall with an unwilling wench. Once Brent is dealt with, Rhoenne seeks out the wench and is amazed to see it is the healer. Her name is Aislynn. Rhoenne becomes her protector. Due to his family curse, she is to be his healer. Nothing more - ever. In return, she gets control of the household and should she need or want anything, it will be granted.

Aislynn has secrets of her own. Upon her hip is the god-mark. Unpredictable dreams come to her; nightmares warn of imminent disasters and horror. Fear of being branded a witch, Aislynn has told no one. And when Rhoenne's actions on her behalf threaten to destroy Rhoenne and his people, Aislynn and his senior vassal, Sir Harold Montvale, must pretend to betray him so he will do what is best for the fiefdom.

***** BUY THIS! I totally believe this to be the best book Jackie Ivie has ever written. All the characters, including the secondary ones, are well developed and the plot is solid, believable. I came to care for Old Rosie and Sir Harold very much, but what I came to feel for Aislynn and Rhoenne was deep. I seldom cry while reading, but I actually felt the anguish of Aislynn and Harold as they did what they thought best for Rhoenne and the people. And I could not stop tears from forming when Aislynn must face Rhoenne after he believes she betrayed him.

Author Jackie Ivie writes scenes that will dance wildly upon readers' emotions. Unforgettable! *****

Author: Catherine Kean
Title - A Knight's Reward

Set in Moydenshire, England, the year of 1194. It is the land of Geoffrey de Lanceau. A rich French merchant, Varden Crenardieu, encourages his thugs to undermine the local traders so he can take more and more control of Clovebury, a town on the edge of Moydenshire. Crenardieu had stolen de Lanceau's load of costly silks as they were being shipped down river to Branton Keep.

When Gisela Anne Balewyne finally has enough abuse (physical, mental, and verbal) from her husband Ryle, she flees with her small son, Ewan. They are hiding in the town of Clovebury. Gisela works as a tailor, trying to earn enough money to finally leave the area and be free from her dangerous and insidious husband. When Crenardieu gives her a commission, Gisela has no idea the silk is stolen. Once she suspects, Gisela does not report it to the authorities because she needs the money from the commission too much. But then Dominic de Terre spies her in the market place.

Dominic is a knight in the service of Lord Geoffrey, sent to investigate the recent cloth thefts. He is amazed to find Gisela in Clovebury. Then he is horrified to learn that her husband had changed her from his laughing, vibrant love into a frightened, suspicious woman. Gisela and Dominic were lovers until he had gone away on crusade. Though the two still care for each other, Gisela fears any help due to what Ryle would do should he locate her and Ewan. As for Dominic, he discovers that not only has Gisela lied to him about the stolen silks, but also did not tell him that Ewan was his illegitimate son. Having betrayed him twice, Gisela expects Dominic to arrest her and take Ewan away. Before anything can happen though, Crenardieu's thugs get their hands on Dominic. Gisela must go to de Lanceau for help, even though doing so would condemn her. And then she must face Ryle.

***** Geoffrey de Lanceau is from the previous book titled A Knight's Vengeance. He and his wife, Elizabeth, are secondary characters in this adventure though. I found it wonderful to see them briefly. It also made this story a little more realistic to me. The character of Gisela is one that I could not help but respect. All the choices she made, good or bad, were made for her child. All good parents would have done as Gisela did. Therefore, readers with children will easily identify with her.

The story begins with the sense of danger surrounding Gisela. I was hooked instantly. From then on, it was non-stop drama with plenty of action. Author Catherine Kean has become the queen on her genre! Superb! *****

Author: Dawn Mactavish
Title - Prisoner of the Flames

In 1533, Scotland, an infant was harmed when his room accidently went up in flames. The nursemaid was killed for her negligence.

Twenty-nine years later, Robert Mack, the young Laird of Berwickshire, is a seasoned warrior. Few have seen his true face. Beneath the half-mask helmet he wears, the right side of his face is untouched; his left side looks as though it has melted, scar tissue narrowed the eye and pleated the corner of the mouth beneath. The young man now yearns for a wife and a family to call his own. Believing no female would ever wish to wed such as him, Robert has but one hope left. Word has reached Robert's ear of Doctor Nostradamus's healing talents. Since the doctor resides in France, Robert must seek out his uncle, Aengus Haddock, a monk of Mount St. Michael Abbey. Robert then goes, with his uncle's letter of recommendation, to seek out Michel Eyguem, seigneur de Montaigne, in Paris.

In Paris, before Robert even find Montaigne, he spies two drunkards accosting a flower girl. Of course, Robert dispatches of the men. The lovely girl is named Violette Cherier and she is blind. She has barely thanked Robert for the help when he is arrested. Returning the favor of rescue, Violette goes to Montaigne for help.

These are dangerous times in France. The king is a lad of twelve and his mother rules France. The country is in the middle of a bloody civil war between the Catholic Royalists, and the French Protestants - the Huguenots. Though Montaigne frees Robert from prison, they find that their troubles have only just begun. Doctor Nostradamus is unable to cure Robert's scaring, but is able to give some prophetic advice and a vile-tasting substance to help keep from catching the plague, which has been spreading like wildfire. The most important piece of advice is to learn to trust his instincts (senses) and that fire will always be around during any of his life-altering events.

Robert and Violette are soon being hunted by both sides of the civil war. It will take a lot of faith in God and in love for the pair to reach safety in Scotland.

**** For any fan of France's history this story will pack a punch. The author, Dawn Thompson, obviously did a lot of research about France's turbulent years. However, due to the necessity of explaining to readers why things were happening around the country, which affected the two main characters' travels, the author was unable to show the romance blooming between the two main characters as much as I would have liked. This made the romance seem very rushed to me. Yet other than that, this historical romance is full of chase scenes and rescues (much like any television drama) and will keep readers well entertained. A very nice addition to a memorable lady's writing legacy. ****

Author: Donna MacMeans
Title - The Trouble with Moonlight

To support her sisters and aunt, Lusinda "Sinda" Havershaw slips through the London nights to recover lost or stolen items for a fee. Sinda's family is one of the rare Nevidimi. Upon becoming a woman, many of them gain special talents. Sinda considers her talent to be a curse. Sinda soaks up moonlight and becomes invisible. Yet clothing does not turn invisible. This is why her recovery business must be done without any clothes. If the moon is not full, Sinda must take time to soak up moonlight in order to phase into invisibility. Whenever talk begins about ghosts and spirits, the Havershaw family moves away to avoid discovery.

British spy James Locke is in the middle of cracking open a safe when he hears footsteps approaching. He hides and ends up astonished when he witnesses a ruby necklace steal out of the safe without any help. As the ruby necklace retreats, James follows. Now knowing Sinda's ability, he enlists her reluctant services to help him locate and retrieve a list containing the name of British agents.

Lusinda wants nothing to do with espionage, but to protect her family and earn more money to help them through the winter months she agrees. As James teaches Sinda lock picking, safecracking, and other tools of the trade, the two begin to find their close proximity to be very distracting. But can Sinda trust James to keep her secrets? Can James allow someone to become close to him and risk them being used against him sometime in the future?

***** Though this story focuses on Lusinda, her sister, Portia, begins to show some talents too by the ending. I hope Portia (and perhaps Rhea) will get a story someday. That in no way means the sisters' will have the same ability though. The author makes it clear that chances are Portia's talent will be very different and even more fascinating. I cannot say more without spoilers, so I will stop now. This story's plot is mainly on retrieving the list of agents before it can reach the Russians. There are no real sub-plots, but there are some slight arrangements for possible future stories about some secondary characters. As with most great stories, this one begins in the middle of something exciting. In this case, it is James seeing the ruby necklace being taken by the invisible Sinda. The story does not slow down in the middle of the book, which is a delightful surprise for readers. All-in-all, this is an exciting trip into the dark alleys of treason. I look forward to the author's next book! *****

Author: Joanna Bourne
Title - My Lord and Spymaster

Jessamyn "Jess" Whitby had once been a poor but cunning pickpocket. Due to her head for accounting though, she and her papa no longer have money troubles. Jess's main problem now is that her papa has been arrested, and due to hang, for treason. He is accused of being the murderer and traitor known as Cinq. Cinq has helped himself to secrets from the War Office and the Admiralty. Jess believes Cinq is really Sebastian Kennett. To prove this, Jess plays a damsel in distress and while clutching Sebastian she needs only lift the stolen papers from his person. Unfortunately for her, she has been marked for kidnapping and her would-be abductors move in during her play of damsel.

Sebastian knows a skilled pickpocket when he feels himself being searched by one. However, he is enticed by the enchanting lady doing the act of helpless female. The act quickly becomes reality. After rescuing Jess with the aid of his good friend Adrian (Head of Section for the British Intelligence Service), Sebastian learns that she is the daughter of the man he believes to be Cinq. Worse, according to Adrian the Service is using Jess to locate the real Cinq. Sebastian, well skilled with knives, intends to protect Jess to his last breath and eventually make her his.

***** Author Joanna Bourne has a new fan in me! All the characters are well developed with their own personality and set of quirks. But the author goes even further by giving them special touches, such as Jess having a ferret that dislikes Sebastian. The plot does not have any loop holes which I can find. It is very solid and kept me guessing. Secondary characters, such as those in Sebastian's home, are charming and add even more to the atmosphere. One or more sub-plots keeps things moving right along; I never found myself growing bored. No one writes Regency Romance as gracefully as Joanna Bourne! *****

Author: Susan Enoch
Title - After the Kiss

Sullivan Waring will go to any lengths, even thievery to recover the legacy lost to him. In pursuit of that dream, he embarks on a career as a masked bandit in order to take back what is rightfully his, his mother's paintings. All goes well until he breaks into the Chasley home and is confronted by the daughter of the family, Lady Isabel. Though he steals a kiss, his own heart is stolen. Isabel is intrigued by this man who has hidden his face and sets out to learn more. However, with his life's course so focused on his purpose and on a road to disaster, does Sullivan have the right to bring someone he loves so intensely into his world?

*** For fans of historical romance, there is little doubt this is a four star read and even those of us who prefer their stories set in the present and alternate worlds can not help but recognize the charm and quality of the writing. Sullivan is a delightful rogue who grows into a man of depth after the touch of love enters his life, and Isabel's character grows equally, proving Ms. Enoch's talent for developing her cast in a fashion that is just right. I believe characters make the book, and this pair certainly fulfill their job assignments. ***

Author: Hannah Howell
Title - Highland Fire

Tavig MacAlphin is wanted for murders he did not commit. Disguised as an older, heavier man (George Fraser) he is en route, via ship, to (his cousin) Mungan Coll's keep and safety when he first spies the lovely Moira Robertson. Her beauty, combined with her fear of her abusive guardian, just may be his down fall.

Moira more than simply fears her cruel guardian, Sir Bearnard Robertson, not to mention his man-at-arms, Connor. So when Sir Bearnard made the group travel on the small, crowded ship, Moira dared not complain. It would only turn their attentions toward her. The ransom for her cousin, Una, arrived weeks ago, but Sir Bearnard did not leave to rescue Una until recently.

Soon Tavig and Moira find themselves stranded. Tavig is determined to reach Mungan for aid. Moira is aghast since Mungan is the one holding Una for ransom. Yet when fate decides to unite these two for life, it changes everything.

***** It is no wonder to me that everyone seems to love any story written by Hannah Howell. All books by this extraordinary author have multiple plots constantly running, not to mention the romance between the main characters (and often the secondary characters as well). And it looks like this story is another winner! This story hooked me almost immediately and the main plot gradually expanded until it included several sub-plots. If that is not enough drama to tempt readers then rest assured that the outside plots add quite a bit of danger an intrigue. An outstanding achievement by author Hannah Howell! *****

Author: C.H. Admirand
Title - Pearl's Redemption
(Irish Western series, Bk 3)

Set in Emerson, Colorado Territory, in the late 1870s. Pearl Lloyd is the widow of a cruel man, John. John made Pearl run his saloon, Pearl's Place. It was also a den of iniquity. John tried his best to make Pearl for sale, as well as his normal upstairs girls. After all of John beatings and other abuses, Pearl is happy that she no longer has to answer to any man. Pearl's Place is no longer a saloon or pleasure house. However, Pearl lets the girls remain on her ranch until they can learn a new skill and get honorable employment elsewhere. Some people, such as O'Toole's gang, still tries to use Pearl's Place for what it was once for. So Pearl keeps her Winchester handy, shoots first, and asks questions later.

The Committee for the Betterment of Emerson is at it again. They have taken it upon themselves to cleanse Emerson of Pearl's Place and the soiled doves within. To this end, they place an ad in the Boston paper and sell Pearl's ranch right out from under her. The ranch is purchased by Davidson "David" Smythe; however, they neglect to inform David of the current people living on the ranch. So when David arrives to move in, Pearl shows him the deadly end of her gun.

David's brother, Michael, had been killed. The killer's target had obviously been David though. Needing to lay low for a bit, the ad for a ranch in the Colorado Territory seems like a blessing, until he finds himself looking down the barrel of Pearl's gun. Pearl claims the ranch belongs to her and has the deed. Soon David is living in a jail instead of the ranch and his purchase papers (and his deed) are in the hands of Marshal Ben Justiss.

The Committee for the Betterment of Emerson is surprised when Pearl and David decide to join forces. The two owners are very attracted to each other and sparks begin to fly. But Pearl does not believe she can ever trust another man and David intends to prove that there can be pleasure between two people who love and respect one another. At the same time, Michael's killer has sent an assassin after David. Pearl's Place is about to become a war zone, in more ways than one.

***** Here is a story that will curl your toes. Strong and believable characters stand up against blood-thirsty opponents, each one well described and developed. This author knows how to hook readers from page one and gives the main characters many obstacles to overcome. You will not find yourself growing bored while you read this story. Superb! *****

Author: Eloisa James
Title - Duchess by Night

At seven and twenty, Harriet feels her life over or at least severely stalled. Though still young, she is a widow and expected to hang back from society following her husband's suicide over a game of chess She wants more in life, as does her dear friend, who is not a widow, but is a married virgin whose husband has been gone for far too long. She's desperate to incite his jealousy and bring him back to make their union real. Harriet is just desperate. What begins as a lark and experiment turns into something more when Harriet agrees to accompany a notorious wastrel and her friend to Lord Stranger's party, disguised as a man. As herself, she could never go and have any fun, but in this guise, she can experience the fun of the party and meet Lord Strange. She had not counted on the fact that her beauty would shine through the "masculine" mask, making the macho man of Jem Strange have unnatural feelings, or so he believes until he takes another look. If Harriet wants to learn anything, she's going to have to go back to being a lady, it would seem.

**** With as much humor as Victor/Victoria, this "gem" of a story will enchant readers. However, it does not get silly, as many woman pretending to be a man or the reverse stories tend to. Even those of us who by far prefer our books to be set in modern times will find something enchanting about this. ****

Author: Julia Quinn
Title - The Lost Duke of Wyndham

When a highwayman stops her employer's carriage, it's tough to know who is the most surprised at what happens next, Grace or the robber himself. The disagreeable duchess not only cooperates, but wants to give the thief more. As it happens, she recognizes him as possibly being a long lost grandson and has soon brought him into her home to claim his legacy. However, what Jack Audley, as he calls himself of late, would like most to claim is his grandmother's companion, Grace, and against all social norms, she finds herself wanting the same thing. However, Jack has to choose between love and convention and between the past and the future.

**** Since her debut, Julia Quinn has been a jewel among historical romance authors, making conventional plot devices sparkle with fresh life, thanks to her humor and cleverness. An expert at characterization, she brings to life each member of her cast, making them become people who will live in her readers' hearts and minds forever. ****

Author: Paula Quinn
Title - A Highlander Never Surrenders

Claire is perhaps the most unusual maiden Graham has ever encountered, much less tried to rescue. For one thing, she hardly needs help in being rescued, other than needing his sword to finish off her foe. She is no pliable miss, but a woman on a mission, to save her sister from marriage to a hated man. Graham soon finds their fates united as the two Highlanders seek both personal and national salvation for those who are important to them. Moreover, he finds himself, despite all his resolve, falling for her, and she can say the same about him. Although there are many reasons that they should remain apart, their hearts have other plans.

*** If you love historicals, then you will surely enjoy this. With the same fire that the beloved late Arnette Lamb brought to her Highland set stories, Ms. Quinn portrays a passionate, loyal people willing to sacrifice all for what they love most. ***

Author: Kathryn Caskie
Title - How to Propose to a Prince

Elizabeth is the youngest of the notorious Royle sisters. It is whispered that they are the daughters of the Prince of Wales, secreted away and raised by the personal physician. Whether true or not, the sisters are close to each other, as well as to the man who raised them. Elizabeth is the sister who has "the sight". Her dreams always come true. The only real problem is that they are only HALF true. No one is ever sure which part is correct and which part is not.

As the story opens, Elizabeth is telling her sister that she dreamed about her future husband. Elizabeth is positive he will be a prince and clearly recalls his features. Very shortly thereafter, they see the man while out shopping. They follow him into a store and hear the clerk call him "Your Highness". The man sternly informs them all that he is Sumner Lansdowne, Marquess of Whitevale, and NOT the prince. After he is gone, the clerk tells them that he saw the prince as he entered town. No one knows why the man will not admit that he is the prince.

Prince Leopold has secretly come to London to seek the hand of the Prince Regent's daughter, Charlotte. Word is that she is most amenable to his suit. Sumner Lansdowne is the cousin to Prince Leopold. From a distance, they look identical. Closely though, one may tell the difference, especially in their heights. To protect Leopold, Sumner poises as the prince at the Ton balls. There, he is reacquainted with Elizabeth. But someone in the area wants Prince Leopold dead. Sumner and Elizabeth soon find themselves with targets on their backs.

**** Mystery, intrigue, romance, or adventure, no matter what your tastes are you will find them satisfied in this story set within the Regency era of London. Since Elizabeth's dreams are only half right, there are plenty of humorous situations due to interpretation mistakes. This is one to pack in your traveling bag. Whether you go to the beach, the mountain, or simply to your back yard, this romance is the perfect accessory. ****

Author: Sophia Nash
Title - The Kiss

As a child Georgiana Wilde had been close friends with Quinn and Anthony Fortesque. As Georgiana grew up, she secretly loved Quinn. After an accident, Georgiana's leg was disfigured and Quinn was sent away to boarding school. Georgiana had not seen Quinn since the day he married another woman and broke her heart. But now Quinn was a widow with a nine-year-old daughter, Fairleigh, and had returned to Penrose on estate business.

Georgiana had married Anthony, the Marquis of Ellesmere, much to Anthony's mother's anger and dismay. Gwendolyn Fortesque thought Georgiana too common for her precious Anthony! Georgiana was the steward's daughter and disfigured trash. Anthony did not care what his mother thought. He loved Georgiana. However, Anthony died in Georgiana's arms...on their wedding night.

Quinn became the new Marquis of Ellesmere. It was not a title he wanted. Gwendolyn was demanding that Quinn investigate and annul Anthony and Georgiana's marriage. The maids had not seen any blood on the sheets of the newlyweds. Georgiana still resided on Penrose, but does not use the Marchioness of Ellesmere title by choice. Quinn hoped to deal with the matter quickly and leave. He would like nothing more than to turn the entire estate over to Georgiana and leave, forgetting again the painful memories of his former life. Yet her beauty and bravery enticed him. Quinn forced himself not to respond to the urges he has had due to the surprising feelings after one kiss.

**** Author Sophia Nash has yet to write a book that I do not enjoy. There are several secondary characters; many are part of the Widows Club (a.k.a. the Barely Bereaving Beauties'). It consists of four widows, most young, and they are all residing at Penrose, invited by Georgiana. These ladies and Fairleigh combine to make a witty addition to the story, at times downright hilarious. Luc and Rosa, from a previous story, are secondary characters too. If you have not read their tale, you will not be left adrift at all. (For those interested, click HERE! Their story is book one of the Widow's Club.) Fans of Regency Romance will NOT be disappointed with this story. There are many road blocks for the main couple to over come and a few surprises along the way. Recommended! ****

Author: Jo Beverley
Title - A Lady's Secret

Robin Fitzvitry, the Earl of Huntersdown, is en route home from Versailles. When he spies a nun muttering curses, Robin cannot help but smell a mystery; and Robin loves a good mystery. The lady going by the outrageous name of Sister Immaculata needs to escape her traveling companion, Lady Sodworth, and the Lady's two spoiled brats. Seeing some amusement as he travels, Robin offers to help the Sister reach England as quickly as possible. During the ride, Robin intends to learn all the secrets the good Sister is hiding.

Petronilla "Petra" Maria d'Averio has spent years with her widowed mother in an Italian convent. Recently her mother has died, leaving Petra in danger. Her only hope is to reach England and locate her father, who has no idea she even exists. Her father is an English lord, so there is a chance he will not want anything to do with her. First, though, Petra must reach England. She is being pursued by a possessive and dangerous man. Therefore, she jumps at the offer from Robin. He clears does not believe Petra is a nun and has made it clear that during their travels he fully intends to coax all her secrets from her. The travel time should not be more than a few days, but Petra finds herself becoming attracted to the young aristocrat - whoever he really is. But Robin is her only hope.

***** Author Jo Beverley has a one of the best imaginations I have encountered in years! Those few days of journey for the main characters are filled with not only Petra's pursuers, but also unexpected dangers. Petra's secrets are neither blurted out from the start, nor kept hidden until the end of the story. Instead, they begin to slowly emerge during her travels with Robin. Once in England their adventures get even more complicated, involving a prayer book. Absolutely terrific! *****

Author: Sari Robins
Title - The Governess Wears Scarlet

Two strangers, Abigail West and Jason Steele, each hiding their true face for reasons of their own, meet in a dark alley when he rescues her from thugs. The intensity of the situation and an immediate attraction lead them to a one night stand. Not even when they meet again, this time with their true faces revealed, do they know each other. Now, she is a proper young woman seeking employment as a governess for the Viscount's two nephews, a job she is able to attain. What she can not do is deny the attraction to her boss. However, secrets and their stations keep them apart. She is on a quest to discover the truth behind her brother's fate, and he is part of a group of masked vigilantes that keeps London safe by night. It seems to be a doomed affair, but as we all know, love can find a way where there is none.

**** If it were not for the rapidity of Jason and Abigail's romantic encounter, this would be a wholly credible story. Ignoring that, Ms. Robbins has successfully combined the classic governess/employer romance with the intrigue of the Scarlet Pimpernel type adventure, making for something sure to win her fans among historical romance aficionados. ****

Author: Debra Mullins
Title - The Night Before the Wedding

The threat of being cursed with madness and their two clans being destroyed by famine causes Catherine and Gabriel to accept their fate and marry. Yet, even before the wedding, they discover they have passion that should make the union one with at least some degree of pleasure. Despite this, both parties are sure their marriage will be doomed. Catherine longs to have more choices and her father does not support the marriage, despite the fact that his own wife died for ignoring the curse. Gabriel has had to defy his own ethics and his father for the sake of his people. Magic brought them together, though, and the truest magic of all is love.

*** If readers can suspend their disbelief and ignore some holes in the plot, this will be a very sweet, yet spiced, romance they can enjoy. Though it is simple, supporting characters add depth and humor to the tale. It's a perfect beach read, even if you have to pretend there's a beach around you. ***

Author: Julie Ann Long
Title - The Perils of Pleasure

Wrongly convicted of a crime and sentenced to be hung, Colin Eversea is without hope of life until, out of nowhere, his freedom is purchased by Madeline Greenway, who has been assigned to procure his life. She is not, however, to release him, nor does she know who did this. Her motives are simple, to earn enough cash to start over in America. It seems, though, that someone wants her dead. Could the same person be the true culprit in the crime for which Colin was convicted? Is her unknown employer trying to avoid paying? Solving these puzzles and preventing the wedding of the woman Colin thinks he loves will unite the pair for a while longer, and might change at least one of their minds about what they want in the future, should they survive to have one.

**** Deftly weaving together humor, mystery, and adventure, Ms. Long brings her scenario to vibrant life. Strong characterization as well as an action laden plot make this one no historical romance fan should miss. ****

Author: Cathy Maxwell
Title - In the Highlander's Bed

It was a daring plan, and one that would be rather inconvenient, but Gordon Lachlan saw it as his best hope of regaining the family sword his clan desperately needed. By kidnapping and ransoming the "spoiled" sister-in-law of his sworn enemy, he would attain his goal, no matter he would be required to put up with her until such time as the Englishman chose to grant his demands. However, Constance turns out to be much more than a weak willed, simpering London miss. She has fire worthy of a Highland woman, and soon, those who began as enemies discover a passion that can dare defy convention and death itself.

**** It is easy to see why, since her sparkling debut, Cathy Maxwell has been royalty among historical romance writers. Her heroes and heroines remain strong, amusing without being silly, and she never falls into the trap of re-writing the same book over and over, changing only names and settings. Constance is someone that any reader would want to be, if we were forced to live in that time, and as long as we could have Gordon at our side. He has all the bravery of Braveheart himself, the daring of Casanova, and the wit of one of the better versions of Robin Hood. ****

Author: Barbara Pierce
Title - Naughty By Nature

Set in London, the year 1810. Patience Rose Farnaly was young when her head was turned by the beautiful words of actor Julian Phoenix. Patience blindly followed Julian. She ran away from her family, believing they would elope and live happily-ever-after and entertaining the world in plays. Instead, Patience found herself disowned by her parents (Sir Russell and Lady Farnaly) and tossed aside like garbage by Julian. Having no other real choice, she changed her name to Miss Patience Winlow, learned the arts of thievery, and became part of Julian's acting troupe. Patience did not even have her virginity any longer, thanks to Julian's little drug. Even so, Julian thinks he can convince Patience to consent to a night with a certain gentleman for profit. Patience proves Julian wrong. In the struggle for her freedom, Julian is accidentally impaled on a nearby tool (think pitchfork). Not wanting anyone to know that she has become a murderess, Patience tells the troupe Julian left them and she takes over as manager. Patience learns that keeping the troupe together is not easy. Guilt keeps her going though. But when Fowler Knowden "Ram", the Earl of Ramscar, offers Patience a position as his sister's companion, she is surprised to hear herself accepting.

Ram would do anything to coax his sister, Lady Meredith, back to the polite society into which she had been born. Meredith had been the only one Ram could save from the fire years ago. There are still visible scars on her face and neck. The other visible body scars are kept covered, yet Meredith feels as if everyone can still see them. She never leaves Swancott, their country estate, and wishes that she had died long ago with her mother and sister. The last thing Meredith wants is a paid companion, especially a commoner. But Patience is a baronet's daughter! Patience never tells Ram or Meredith who she really is, but Patience uses all her skills as a lady and an actress to get her charge to London. Once there, Her Grace, the Dowager Duchess of Solitea, will help Patience and Ram ease Meredith back into Society's view.

***** Though Patience and Ram are the two main characters, I was happy to learn that the author, Barbara Pierce, was letting me watch Lady Meredith come out of her shell. Seeing Patience and Ram dance around each other remained in the spot light; however, Meredith's life often threatened to steal that spot light a few times. This was like reading two different Regency Romances in one...and I loved every single minute I spent with my nose buried in this story! This author has made a new fan in me. Life seemed to jump out of every character. It did not matter if the character was main, secondary, or minor to me. I felt anger toward the bad guys. I felt pain and sympathy for Patience and Meredith. I even cheered aloud twice as I watched Patience fight and Meredith bloom. Hopefully, someone out there will realize how serious I am when I say that this book is a rare gem. I pity anyone who misses this title. BRAVA! *****

Author: Sherry Thomas
Title - Private Arrangements

During the late 1800's, the only kind of marriage that was looked well upon was a courteous marriage. In the eyes of London Society, this was exactly what lord and Lady tremaine has had for the past ten years: Therefore when Lady Tremaine "Gigi" petitions for a divorce, worlds are turned upside down. Matters only worsen when Lord Tremaine (Camden) arrives from New York after ten years of separation, and demands that he will only grant the divorce if GiGi will produce an heir within a years time.

Gigi, is now engaged to Lord Fredrick, must comply with these demands in order to have one last chance at happiness. The situation is only worsened by tragic memories and a title seeking mother ferverently pushing for the pair to get back together. Passions and tempers fly, and love is rekindled behind closed doors in private arragements.

**** The depth of this book is phenominal. I loved how the plot developed and intertwined between past and present. I also enjoyed how the author made the characters more realistic by giving each one some kind of flaw or past mistake. I found this book to be funny, romantic, and enraging all at the same time. Simply fabulous! ****

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt
Title - To Taste Temptation
(The Legend of the Four Soldiers #1)

Lady Emeline Gordon has been a widow for five years. She has an eight year-old-son named Daniel Gordon, Baron Eddings. She is part of London's elite social circles. She is also the sister of Reynaud, which makes her vital for Samuel Hartley's plans! Reynaud had been a captain, fighting in the colonies when he fell at Spinner's Falls. Samuel had been one of the few survivors. He is now very wealthy due to his Boston import/export business. In fact, his business is one of the things that has brought him and his younger sister, Rebecca, to London. While here, Sam convinces Emeline to chaperone Rebecca for the Season. Yet that is mainly a cover story for him, because Samuel is convinced that the Wyandot tribe had not stumbled upon the soldiers at Spinner's Falls; they were betrayed and led to slaughter.

Emeline considers Samuel to be too barbaric for London Society, even if he is wealthy. The man even wore moccasins to a grand ball. Yet Emeline cannot help but wonder what the man's touch would be like. Emeline agrees to chaperone Rebecca. With the help of her aunt, Tante Crestelle, Emeline begins teaching Rebecca all she would need to know in order to be a success. There is no time to waste. However, Samuel begins acting strangely around her. Dare she hope the odd colonialist feels the same attraction between them?

*** This is the first of four books. The plot is sound and the story flows smoothly, yet I never came to really like the heroine, Emeline. I grew to care for all the other characters though, especially Rebecca and Melisande (Emeline's friend). At the beginning of each chapter is a small narration of "The Legend of the Four Soldiers". Obviously Samuel is the one who headed east. I found this to be a wonderful addition to the entire book. Very well done! It will be interesting to see how the other three soldiers fair. ***

Author: Stephanie Laurens
Title - Where the Heart Leads

Though raised in power and privilege, Portia Cynster is not blind to the plight of those less fortunate and devotes herself to caring for and helping the street children of London. When some of her charges begin to disappear, against the rules of society and all logic, she, an unmarried lady, calls upon Barnaby Adair, uninvited, hoping to enlist his aid in discovering the truth. This unconventional beauty intrigues the Sherlock like gentleman and he is willing to help her. Thus begins their quest for the truth, one that will take them into the slums of London and into each other's hearts. Along the way, they partner with one of the first Scotland Yard inspectors and run into dangers the like of which most people of their set can only imagine happening in penny dreadfuls.

**** Danger, romance, and intriguing characters, what more could a reader ask for? Fans of the Cynster series will be delighted with this newest entry, even though Basil Stokes and Barnaby Adair are the most intriguing characters in it. Having never read anything by this author before, I can safely say that it should easily be considered a stand alone novel, so newbies need not be discouraged. ****

Author: Emily Bryan
Title - Distracting the Duchess

Lady Artemisia, Duchess of Southwycke, may only be twenty-five-years-old, but she has already been a widow for two of those years. Knowing Society would snub a female in business, Artemisia does her dealings behind an alias. Artemisia's nom de guerre is Mr. Beddington. In her employ is one assistant, James Shipwash. James runs the day-to-day operations and does interference on the occasions someone tries to call on Mr. Beddington at the office. All goes well until her father, Angus, slips into dementia.

The Honorable Trevelyn Deveridge, second son of the Earl of Warre, is in Her Majesty's Secret Service. The last coherent message received from Angus simply said "Beddington holds the key". However, no one can reach the elusive man. The key refers to a list Angus created of all his operatives. Should it fall into the wrong hands, many would die. When Trevelyn shows up at the Southwycke estate, Lady Artemisia assumes he is the new model she had sent for. Disrobing and posing nude for the lovely lady was not what Trevelyn expected, but he was not one to say no. It is not long before things start getting dicey, as espionage often does. As the intrigue deepens, as well as the passion they share for each other, Artemisia and Trevelyn must team up to figure out where the key is.

***** There are secondary plots, secondary characters, and foreign villains galore, but there was no way I could tell much more in the synopsis without giving away something vital and spoiling the adventure. The amusing mistaken identity at the beginning sure caught my attention and the suspense began quickly thereafter. The character of Artemisia is deeper than I could explain as well. She grew up in Bombay, where riding elephants and going on tiger hunts were considered the norm. Between her background and her stiff backbone, Artemisia is a force to be reckoned with. Trevelyn has his hands full with her. No faint-hearted miss here! I found this story to be downright engrossing and I cannot recommend it highly enough! Author Emily Bryan simply oozes talent! *****

Author: Alexandria Scott
Title: Southern Seduction

Brooke Hammond had not chosen the life of a courtesan. It was the only way for her to survive. Her life changed when she was taken under the wing of Jackson Montgomery, Duke of Devonshire. Their relationship was platonic. Jackson had promised he would leave Brooke and his two nieces, Jocelyn and Shannon, well taken care of. When he had died, he'd left Brooke his American plantation, Moss Grove, and enough money for the young women to leave England for a new life. Mr. Jeffries, the solicitor in charge of the duke's affairs, went with them.

Once in New York, the three ladies have a tearful farewell and go their separate ways. Mr. Jeffries travels with Brooke to Moss Grove. However, the duke had not told Brooke the entire truth. Brooke arrives at Moss Grove, in New Orleans, to find out that Travis Montgomery, Jackson's son out of wedlock, is already in residence. Mr. Jeffries reads Jackson's will aloud and shock Brooke and Travis to their very cores. The two are now business partners; both have inherited half of the sugar plantation.

Travis is furious! He knew Jackson never really cared for him. When Travis was but sixteen, the duke had sent Travis and his mother, Margaret, to live on the failing plantation. Travis has only recently managed to turn Moss Grove into a profitable business. Due to other items in Jackson's will, Moss Grove may fail after all. Currently, Travis's mother is up north with Hesione, his fiancée. With luck, by the time they get back he will have managed to get rid of the unwanted business partner. No matter how lovely the "widow" is, Brooke could ruin everything.

Brooke is not happy with the news either. Due to the will's terms, should Travis marry Hesione, Brooke would no longer have a claim to the estate. No one knows Brooke had survived as a courtesan, but those skills may help her seduce Travis away from Hesione.

***** Do not judge Brooke harshly. There are more terms in the will than I mention in my synopsis. There are more characters than you would guess as well. I fell in love with Mammy, the housekeeper, and twelve year old Eliza, Travis's second cousin. Hesione's Creole family can cause major problems too.

Author Alexandria Scott has created an exceptional tale set during a time in history when such situations could become most volatile. I found this story to be very extraordinary; the heroines of most historical romances are of young, naive, ladies or widows. This author has dared to go against the grain and has earned my high regards. BRAVA! I can hardly wait for the nieces' stories to be told. *****

Author: Julie Garwood
Title - Shadow Music

Princess Gabrielle of St. Briel was positioned perfectly to be used as living currency so that King John could form a political alliance by marrying her off to a decent, albeit not romantic, lord. However, the man's murder ends the engagement and sets off a chain of events that ends in Gabrielle's kind heart and the vicious lies one act of mercy inspires getting her banished from the kingdom. Taken in by a man who owes a debt, she finds a new life in Scotland, protected by one of the most confounding gentlemen she has ever encountered. Colm MacHugh seems immune to her charms and beauty, but he is not. Yet, even as a reluctant and passionate love blooms between them, forces are still at work that could change or end their futures forever. Treasure, greed, deception, and murder mingle with passionate innocence in this story that will sweep you back to a more heroic, wilder age.

**** No matter what era she write in or which genre, Julie Garwood pens a gripping tale that has earned her a well-deserved spot in readers' hearts and a position as a grand dame of romance. Gabrielle proves to be one of her best heroines, with her charming naiveté and her dauntless courage that make her the perfect match and balance for Colm, a man who definitely needs some sparkle in his life. She also shows exactly how powerful one misspoken word can be, but also, how true it is that when God shuts a door, He opens a window. ****

Author: Leisha Kelly
Title - Till Morning is Nigh

Julia Wortham and her husband find themselves caring for a bunch of abandoned children in the winter of 1932, just before Christmas. Though facing many difficulties and uncertainties, she strives to make this a happy time for them and to keep the focus on the Christ child. One of the ways they try to make it a special season is by creating a paper Nativity, scattered throughout the house in appropriate places for the time; i.e., the Baby is in Heaven, aka, the upstairs, the magi are in an Eastern corner of the house, moving steadily toward Bethlehem. Yet, the nagging worry plagues Julia; what will she do if their father does not return?

*** Other than the Christmas story, there is not a special emphasis on the gospel, yet this is a stereotypical "inspirational" story in that it feels a bit watered down, and also has the sensation that this is the middle of a larger story a new reader is not privy to. If you enjoy Hallmark channel movies where they are happy about being in troubled times, you'll be delighted with this. ***

Author: Kinley MacGregor
Title - The Warrior

Two emotionally scarred people learn to love and trust in this sweeping story of the Highlands. Lochlan was a warrior born, and as such compelled to rescue the lovely Catriona when he sees her being attacked. From then on, his fate is caught up with that of the woman with three lines of royal blood in her veins. Though they are far apart in station, their hearts know none of this, and they are willing to face any odds and any tests to be together.

**** This story ends on a true feel good moment. How Lochlan and Cat get to the reward is a grueling journey with a grand pay off. Though I was disappointed that this was not an Avalon book, as I had expected, historical fans will discover that Ms. MacGregor writes as well as the late Arnette Lamb, who was a shining star on the Highland historical scene. ****

Author: Jenna Petersen
Title - Seduction is Forever

Set in London, 1814. Emily Redgrave, Lady Allington, is a young woman of charm, beauty, intelligence, and grace. She is also a spy for the Crown. Six months ago Emily had been shot. However, Emily believes she is ready to return to the field.

Grant Ashbury, Lord Westfield, knows from experience that anyone he cares for will be in danger while he remains a spy. Seeing his late wife's lifeless eyes had taught him that. But now Grant want to get back into the field. He would gladly accept ANY case for a chance to prove to his superiors that he is ready.

Emily's mission is to protect Grant against the nameless, faceless enemies who seek his destruction. Grant's mission is to defend Emily for the same reason. Neither knew the missions were false. However, while Emily searched for Grant's enemies, she stumbled upon a real case of treason.

**** This story will keep all regency and historical romance fans on their toes! The first half of the book reads like a soothing and romantic Regency and then the author adds a touch of danger and suspense. An excellent way to enjoy a rainy evening. ****

Author: Catherine Delors
Title - Mistress of the Revolution

At fifteen, Gabrielle de Montserrat meets the man she longs to marry, Pierre-Andre Coffinal; however, economics and social considerations cause her family to choose to deny his suit in favor of a rich baron's. Despite her protests, she finds herself in a short marriage that ends when her older husband dies. That does not free her to reclaim her true love, though. Before that can happen, Gabrielle will find herself a part of court life at Versailles, at the worst possible time. When next she meets Pierre, he has her life in his hands, as a member of the group who determines which of the nobles will have a date with the guillotine. Though they do get that second chance, it is not without problems. Their world is in a state of chaos that must surely affect everyone in France.

**** Fans of this genre or students of the era will be delighted. A complex plot is complemented by richly developed characters, both real and imaginary ones who come into reality thanks to the author's painstaking details. If you want a light, purely for enjoyment read, then you might chose to pass, but those in search of weightier novels should not forgo it. ****

Author: Gail Ranstrom
Title - Lord Libertine

Set in London, 1821. When her sister, Cora, is dying before her, Isabella "Bella" O'Rourke vows to find the killer and bring him to justice. The only thing Cora can tell Bella is that the man is a gentleman of the Ton, dark haired, licks his lips after every kiss, and his kisses taste bitter. Bella has no delusions about Cora's murderer. Cora had been bled from the wrists, partly skinned, her private parts mutilated, and had a wyvern dragon drawn (in her own blood) on her belly. Whoever this madman is, he is able to hide his dark soul beneath a handsome face and great charm.

Since the Home Office has no leads and stopped investigating, Bella can think of no way to locate her sister's killer except to kiss every dark haired gentleman she can during the Season and watch to see if he licks his lips or tastes bitter. Bella has no doubts that the hunt will destroy her reputation; however, she needs to protect her identity as much as possible so that her vigilante justice does not ruin her two remaining sisters chances of making a good match. The men have begun calling her Lady Lace. One dark haired and charming gentleman, Andrew Hunter, is fast becoming a problem. Bella finds herself attracted to him, but she cannot get him to give her a kiss. Yet she must find a way to make sure he is not the man she seeks. At the same time, the gentleman keeps scaring off the other gentleman she is trying to test.

Andrew "Drew" Hunter is known as Lord Libertine. After witnessing horrors during his time in the war (not to mention the horrible acts he had to commit to others), Drew is doing every wild thing he can imagine to keep himself from remembering. Drew has become numb and not even his wild nights are interesting any more. But then his former commanding officer and friend, Lord Wycliffe with the Home Office, convinces Drew to help locate a serial killer. Ladies are disappearing, only to turn up dead with ghastly wounds that speak of cult rituals. Lord Wycliffe had been present when Bella and Cora spoke. Cora had only been the first lady from the upper class to been kidnapped. The facts show that she won't be the last. The number of bodies is now in the double digits and the night of something called the Thirteenth Sabbath draws near. Drew must keep silent on what he knows from everyone, including from the tempting Lady Lace once he knows her secrets. But how can Drew keep the lady he adores from putting herself in danger without revealing Lord Wycliffe's secrets?

***** This may be a romance set during the Regency era of London, but it is overflowing with drama and gripping suspense! The identity of the killer is pretty obvious to the reader, but the author has more than a few twists and surprises in store. You will never grow bored of this excellent story and I highly recommend it to all. *****

Author: Sophia Nash
Title: A Dangerous Beauty

Rosamunde is the daughter of the Earl of Twenlyne. She grew up wild and very loved. But she made a huge mistake. When her father demanded she wed the man she erred with, Rosamunde refused and became a ruined woman. She finally married a common man and suffered more than she would ever reveal to anyone. Her sister, Sylvia Langdon, went wherever Rosamunde did, no matter that it meant she would share her sister's tainted title.

When her abusive husband dies, Rosamunde flees from her late husband's cousin, who thinks to continue where his kin left off. Rosamunde and Sylvia accept an invitation to spend a season with the Dowager Duchess of Helston and join her unique Widows Club. Rosamunde wants only to stay in the shadows and catch no attention; however, the brother of her mistake is with Ata. Rosamunde does not believe the St. Aubyn family knows that she has a horrid past with their family. If they did, they never would have invited her to Cornwall and she has no where else to go.

Luc St. Aubyn, the Duke of Helston, never beds the same woman twice. He has the well-deserved titled of Lord Fire and Ice. He is as fire with the woman he chooses for the night and as ice the instant he wakes in the morn. Luc knows how cruel is father and the dukes before him were. Luc is still trying to build up the funds they lost. Luc is pulled toward Rosamunde, but knows that she has suffered much at the hands of her late husband and his family. He is determined to repair the repressed look within Rosamunde's eyes and try to make up at least a bit of what his family did to her.

***** This story is full of drama, bravery, and humor. From the first page I found myself enthralled by Rosamunde and her unbreakable spirit. Author Sophia Nash has proven that as great as she was with the short Regency Romances, she is even better with the longer ones! If this author's name is on the cover, do not even bother reading the back; simply BUY it. Sophia Nash is one of the best! *****

Author: Kat Martin
Title: Heart of Fire

Determined to prove her beloved sister did not kill herself, Coralee Whitmore dons the guise of Letty, a simple, but impoverished young woman who needs shelter at the home of her "husband's cousin," Gray, the Earl of Tremaine. She is sure that he belongs on her short list of suspects, yet the gentle, generous man she meets rapidly becomes someone she does not want to be a killer. Gray is tortured by dark memories of his wife's death, but something about Letty makes him begin to heal. Each is falling in love with a facade, or do their hearts see the real person beneath? Moreover, who did kill Corrie's sister, and if it's not Gray, will they try to silence the truth?

**** Romance and mystery are intertwined in this complex story that has more twists and turns than a roller coaster. Ms. Martin's legion of justly loyal fans will not be disappointed as they watch Gray and Corrie discover the truth, not only about the past, but about each other. ****

Author: Lauren Royal
Title: The Art of Temptation

In 1817, Sean Delaney has become a profitable businessman. He had taken a small inheritance and, within ten years, has acquired much wealth. The only blight in Sean's life is seeing how miserable his sister, Deidre, is.

Deidre's husband, John Hamilton, treats Deidre worse than dirt, but refuses to grant her the divorce she desires. That is, until now. John's a famous painter and his dying uncle is Samuel Hamilton, the Earl of Lincolnshire. John is Samuel's heir and insists John come stay with him during his final few weeks of life so they may come to know each other. John and his uncle have not seen each other since John's infancy. Of course, John cares nothing for the earl and wants only for the man to die and give over the title, estates, and wealth to him. John does not want to see the old man. John wants to spend those few weeks elsewhere, so he makes a deal with Sean. If Sean pretends to be John and stay with the earl until he passes away, John will grant Deidre the divorce.

Budding artist Lady Corinna Chase has her mind on improving her technique, not marriage. She hopes that one of her canvases will be selected for the annual Summer Exhibition. Corinna is soon one of an elite few who knows Sean is not really John. (After all, a painter cannot possibly be color blind, as Sean is.) Wanting the earl's last days to be happy ones, Corinna is more than happy to help Sean pull off his hoax. But neither Corinna, nor Sean, thought that they would become enamored of each other.

***** Though this story's main focus is on Corinna and Sean, it also delves into a sub-plot romance of Lady Rachael and Griffin (Corinna's brother). Somehow the sections with the secondary couple makes the story more realistic. Life often has more going on than one romance at any given time, correct? Perhaps this is the reason for my interest. Whatever the reason, author Lauren Royal proves that she knows what her readers enjoy. Brava! Encore! *****

Author: Gwen Rowley
Title: Gawain: Knights of the Round Table

The tale of Sir Gawain and the Loathly Lady is fleshed out and given new life as it is presented here to modern readers. Once, Aislyn and Gawain were in love, but a deception lay at the root of their affair; she was his mother's disciple, ordered to seduce him and enchant him so that he would betray Arthur. However, Aislyn could not go through with the plan and left him out of love. Now, years later, she has a chance to be with him again. Knowing that Gawain and the King are seeking the answer to a riddle, "what do all women want?," she transforms herself into a crone and offers Arthur the solution for the price of a husband. As Arthur's most trusted and loyal knight, Gawain offers himself. Against all good sense and protests from the king, he goes through with the bargain. Aislyn continues to maintain her ruse because she is hiding from Gawain's mother, Morgause, the king's sister. However, she can change back into her true form at will until Morgana, the king's other sister, visits and makes her crone like state permanent, unless she can win the kiss of true love from Gawain. Then, she might have a partial reprieve. How can Aislyn hope for such a thing when her face is hideous and her lies even uglier?

**** This has always been one of my favorite legends of the Round Table. Seeing it expanded into a full blown story is a joy that I hope many readers will share. Multiple flashbacks hamper the flow somewhat, however, in the end it comes together to make sense. ****

Author: Elizabeth Thornton
Title: The Pleasure Trap

Eve Dearing was only a little girl in 1806 when her mother, Antonia, died. She woke up in her little bed, hearing her mother's voice within her mind calling out to her. Eve followed the voice to find her mother dying near a quarry, just outside of London. Antonia had always had a sixth sense. The family called it the Claverly Charisma. As Antonia died, she imprinted a picture within Eve's mind, a premonition of future danger, and warned Eve to be careful. From then on, Eve refused to believe that she had the Claverly charisma.

In 1818, Eve has become a lovely lady. When her father remarried, Eve moves in with her Aunt Millicent, who has a small portion of the Claverly charisma. Eve writes Gothic romances, which are all the rage now. Since Gothic romances are sneered at by many, no writer dares to reveal her true identity. All authors write under a pseudonym. Eve is known as Mrs. Barrymore. Eve and Millicent go to attend the annual writer's symposium, as they do each year, and then prolong their time in town with Lady Sally Sayers to take in the Season. Eve plans to have a Season in her next novel and needs the experience to make her tale more real. Along for the trip is Eve's dog, Dexter.

After years of battling the French, Viscount Ash Denison wants only to enjoy and savor the good life. Then a friend asks Ash to attend a writer's symposium to unmask the true identity of Angelo. Angelo has been resurrecting fourteen-year-old tragedies of high society families and writing them in articles for the newspapers to print. However, Angelo writes up the accidents as if they were murders instead. The latest article implied that Ash's simple-minded brother, Harry, did NOT accidently drown at the young age of ten, but was murdered instead. Thus, Ash's spy mission has become personal, especially since Ash had loved his brother.

Ash meets Eve at the symposium and is instantly interested in her. Ash even begins to dream of ravishing her. Eve is dreaming the same. Neither knows that they are sharing dreams together. Had the thought crossing their minds, they would have laughed. Ash does not believe in sixth sense and Eve refuses to believe she still has the Claverly charisma. But then one of the Gothic romance writers, Lydia, plays a dangerous game by pretending to be Angelo. Eve and Ash's dream is interrupted by Lydia's scream when she is attacked. More danger comes into play when a patient escapes from the hospital (Bedlam) nearby. However, the scariest part is that Eve's gift is reawakening and she is, somehow, getting inside the mind of a killer. The killer is after Nell, the little escapee who witnessed Lydia's attack, and turns his sight on Eve as well.

***** W-O-W! That is all that came to my mind when I finished this book. Author Elizabeth Thornton has a new fan in me! This story has all the pleasure of a Historical Romance, all the suspense of a Mystery Thriller, and some Super Natural Romance tossed in for good measure. I read this entire book in one sitting! I simply could not put the book down. Therefore, I went to work the next day with absolutely zero sleep! Yes, this story is THAT great. This is going directly to my Keeper Shelf, never to be loaned out, and to be read again at a later date. Put this title on you Must Have list! *****

Author: Victoria Alexander
Title: Secrets of a Proper Lady

Set in London, 1854. Four men, totally opposed to marriage made a bet. The last man standing gets a bottle of special cognac and a small amount of money. In only four months since the wager was made, two of the men are happily married. The two men remaining are Oliver Leighton, the Earl of Norcroft, and Daniel Sinclair, the American entrepreneur.

Lady Cordelia Bannister is the last unwed daughter of the Earl of Marsham. Cordelia is nearing the age of twenty-six and has yet to find a man she loves. Three men have proposed to her and, for various reasons of her own, all three men were politely turned down. But now her father has presumptuously arranged for Cordelia to wed Daniel Sinclair, a man she has never even met. If Cordelia declines, the family's finances will be is serious trouble. Lord Marsham owns a rather impressive shipping line. Harold, Daniel's father, wants to merge the shipping line with his own steamship interests. This would give Harold an entree into Europe's area.

Cordelia decides to learn all she can about Daniel to see if they would get along well or if she should somehow bow out of the whole thing. To do this, Cordelia pretends to be Sarah, her companion/cousin. She then lies in wait for Daniel's secretary, Warren, to appear for his daily walk and approaches him.

Daniel is startled when the lovely lady mistakes him for Warren and approaches him to ask detailed questions about "his employer". Yet Daniel jumps at the chance to learn more about Cordelia. Daniel believes that he may learn what Cordelia does not like and then pretend to be all she hates. If Cordelia backed out of the marriage proposal, then his father could not force him to walk down the wedding aisle. But neither Daniel, nor Cordelia, expected to really like the false people they pretended to be. Both believe that a confession would make the other hate him or her. Yet sooner-or-later, the real Daniel and Cordelia must meet face-to-face.

***** A hilarious story of mistaken identities blended with a romance that only Victoria Alexander could possibly pull off so well. I found myself thoroughly amused throughout the entire book. PERFECT reading during a long rode trip, on vacation, or just to cheer you up on a lonely day. BRAVA! *****

Author: Lisa Jackson
Title: Sorceress

Set in the early thirteenth century of North Wales. Bryanna of Penbrooke has always stood out from the rest. It is something she has always hated. No one ever believed Bryanna when she was little and mentioned the people and animals around that no one else could see. She has always been plagued by visions and voices. She has always been a sorceress, though she has been careful to keep it quiet. Now she is compelled by destiny to fulfill an age-old prophecy and to save an innocent life. So she begins traveling, alone, toward Tarth, in hopes of receiving some answers. At the same time she searches for four jewels for an enchanted dagger. Bryanna never expected to meet a stranger deep in the woods.

Hallyd killed a witch sixteen years ago, but not before the beautiful vixen cursed him. Hallyd must now keep to the darkness, never to enjoy the slightest bit of sunlight. He has waited so long for the witch's daughter, Bryanna, to come. She is the one chosen by the Fates. He will make her lift the curse and then enjoy the other sinister plans he has devised for her.

Gavyn of Agendor is hunted by his biological father, Lord Agendor, and his hired killers. Horribly wounded during his flight, Gavyn stumbles upon Bryanna's campfire. He is shocked to realize that Bryanna is the woman from his dreams; dreams he has had for years. If she will let him, Gavyn will protect Bryanna while teaching her amazing things. But Gavyn has no idea that Bryanna is also being hunted. Nor does he believe that one so lovely could possibly be a sorceress.

***** This story hooked me immediately and never let go. As I finished one suspenseful section, I was shocked to realize that my body had actually gone totally still and I had been holding my breath along with Bryanna! Author Lisa Jackson has written a breathtaking tale that will leave you believing in magic and true love. Astounding! *****

Author: Suzanne Enoch
Title: Twice the Temptation

In the summer of 1814, Evangeline Munroe inherits the Nightshade Diamond. It is one hundred and sixty-nine carats and supposed to be cursed. She does not believe in curses, of course, but then she literally runs into the Marquis of Rawley. For some odd reason, any time she wears the diamond, all her suitors EXCEPT the marquis show up. Whenever she does not wear it, the marquis is there!

In 2007, reformed thief Samantha Jellicoe discovers the Nightshade Diamond hidden in the wall of her billionaire boyfriend's estate while she is prepping the area for an event. The note with it is dated from the early eighteen hundreds.

*** The plot is wonderful, the characters are developed pretty well too. However, since each story only takes half the book I never felt close to any of the characters. They came across as flat. But all-in-all, this book is worth your time and money. ***

Author: Sue-Ellen Welfonder
Title: Bride For a Knight

Set in the Western Highlands, 1347. All his siblings are dead and only Jamie MacPherson remains. Thus, Jamie returns to Baldreagen Castle. Upon arriving, Jamie finds a golden goddess in the glade. Desire ignites immediately. So when Jamie later learns that she is soon to be his wife, he is more than simply pleased. He desires her as no other before.

Aveline Matheson seems just as willing to wed. She actually longs to have a husband and household to call her own.

Danger seems to follow the couple. Someone close has already murdered Jamie's siblings, yet is now intent on wiping out the rest of his family, including his new bride. But the enemy did not believe Jamie would risk all for his Aveline.

**** Wonderful historical romance. Lots of romance and intrigued with some danger and suspense as well. I would never have guessed as to whom the enemy was or why. Recommended! ****

Author: Catherine Kean
Title: My Lady's Treasure

This story is set in England and begins in early December, 1192. Lady Faye Rivellaux is an impoverished widow. She resides in Caldstone Keep. One of her dearest friends, Elayne, was the wife of Lord Torr Lorvais. Elayne is now deceased; however, before Elayne died, Faye was her companion. Faye would often go with Elayne and little Angeline (Elayne's daughter) to the river for picnics. It was during the last picnic together that Angeline found the slightly dented golden chalice in some mud and rocks. The goblet became a secret of the trio.

Though Elayne is now deceased, Faye cares for eighteen month old Angeline as if the child were her own. Angeline is kidnapped and a ransom for silver is sent to Faye, along with a warning to tell no one of the demand. Faye meets a man at the arranged destination and offers the gold goblet instead of silver.

Sir Brant Meslarches does not care for Lord Torr Lorvais. Yet due to the last words uttered from his older brother, Royce, Brant must comply to Lord Lorvais's demands. Brant had been assured Faye would not have the ransom. Lorvais's orders were to scare Faye and leave. So Brant is shocked when Faye offers a gold goblet! It looks to be part of King Arthur's legendary treasure.

Faye does not trust Brant to not disappear with the goblet and never return Angeline. Faye does not believe Brant when he confesses that he has no idea who Angelina even is. At the same time, Brant desperately wants to locate the rest of the treasure that Royce had been positive existed. The two must team up, even though there is very little trust between them, in hopes of locating the untold riches, rescuing the little girl, and foiling the plans of an insane overlord.

***** An excellent tale which surrounds one of my favorite legends and set within the days of yore. The descriptions of events, such as the fateful picnic, were so realistic that I could almost feel the chill from the wind on my face. I consider this story to be MY treasure and it will go directly to my Keeper Shelf. Filled with drama, betrayals, romance, suspense, and mystery, this adventure will remain in your mind long after you finish reading the last page. *****

Author: Jocelyn Kelley
Title: Lost in Shadow

Miss Jade Nethercott is the middle daughter of Lord Nethercott, a professor who died before he could prove that ghosts were real. Since her father encouraged his daughters to ask questions and actually think (unlike most Society ladies), Jade did not run screaming when the ghost of Sir Mitchell Renshaw appeared in front of her. Lord Renshaw says that Jade's father told him to seek her out in hopes of bringing Lord Renshaw's killer to justice. Lord Renshaw is just as pompous and condescending in death as he was in life. This, of course, grates on Jade's nerves at times. Yet Lord Renshaw tells Jade that should she help him find proof against his killer, he would have the spirit of Jade's father come visit her. Lord Renshaw also promised to try to become visible to others so that Jade can prove to the world her father was correct in his research of ghosts. Jade agrees. Lord Renshaw's ghost swears that Lord Bannatyne, the brother of his fiancée, Lady Persis, is the one who stabbed him in the back and killed him, even though he never actually saw Lord Bannatyne's face. Lord Renshaw knows that Lord Bannatyne's knife was used and that is all the proof he needs for himself. However, the living requires more proof than simply the knife, since anyone else could have used it. Lord Renshaw insists that the proof Jade must retrieve can only be found in the demimonde. (This is where gentlemen find various mistresses and cyprians.) Even knowing this task could ruin her, Jade is determined to succeed. As one last favor, Lord Renshaw asks Jade to contact Persis and let her know that she could very well be in mortal danger.

Lord Gideon Bannatyne, third viscount, has a low reputation even without people whispering that they believe he murdered Lord Renshaw. So he is amazed when Jade walks directly up to him and requests his assistance in helping her slip into the demimonde to discreetly question some of the demimondaines. Normally Gideon would refuse, but something about Jade has him making a deal with her. He would help Jade in her quest, yet should she not have her answers by the seventh night, Jade must spend a month in Gideon's bed. Only shortly thereafter, Gideon proves he is not totally a cad when he risks arrest rather than ruin Jade's reputation. Once they have leaped that particular hurdle, Gideon introduces Jade to Miss Sharla Maguire. Sharla is the mistress to another gentleman, but a dear friend to Gideon, and she agrees to tutor Jade, for a week, in how to behave like the women in the demimonde. In this way, Jade should be able to slip in and out of the demimonde without Society ever hearing of it.

But someone out there seems to be gunning for Gideon and will stop at nothing to succeed.

***** Author Jocelyn Kelley proves that she can easily cross genres with this suspenseful novel set in London's Regency era. Readers are treated to ghostly tasks, drama, and romance all wrapped up in a fascinating murder mystery! Sharla is the best secondary character, imho, of the story and I hope to see more of her in future tales. Recommended as one of the highest dramas I have read all year! Fabulous! *****

Author: DeborahAnne MacGillivray
Title: In Her Bed

Set in the Scotland Highlands, 1296. Aithinne Ogilvie is heiress of Clan Ogilvie. A charter granted two centuries before protected the right of the Picts. Yet this did not stop the English monarch from sending the Dragon of Challon to claim Glen Shane by wedding Aithinne's cousin, Tamlyn. (Story in "A Restless Knight".) Soon King Edward would look toward Coinnleir Wood and Lady Aithinne. Now that her guardian, Gilchrist Fraser, Lord Lyonglen, is dead, Aithinne is desperate to keep the Norman's king and her awful neighboring suitors away from her people. Thus a plan is made from desperation. But before the plan is put into motion, Aithinne must become pregnant fast and keep Gilchrist's death a secret just a little bit longer. Aithinne sends her most trusted men out to kidnap a handsome man. He is to be chained to a bed in the tower for a full week, beginning on Beltane Night. During that time, Aithinne will use him to conceive a babe. Afterward, the man would be given a potion to forget it all.

Damian St. Giles, Lord Ravenhawke, is in love with Tamlyn and must watch silently as she weds Challon, his cousin. When three Scottish men offer Damian some special Beltane mead, he gladly accepts in hopes of oblivion taking away his heartache, even if only temporary. Damian wakens to find himself in a strange bed, with the woman he longs for making love to him. Time blurs. When Damian finds himself back with Lord Challon, he cannot explain where he has been.

Aithinne's plans backfire when Lord Challon enters her gates, with Damian at his side, to announce that King Edward had made him overlord of all Glen Eallach, including Coinnleir Wood. Fate must be laughing at them all, because Damian is somehow the heir of her deceased guardian! When Damian remembers everything, not even her magical Kenning talent from her Sidhe blood will be able to save her!

***** This author writes with a flavor that reminds me of Johanna Lindsey. Not many people write stories with such passion any longer. At times the drama was so intense it made me wince. Often the words were so heated that, had it been dark, they would have lit up the sky like lightning. I can only hope the author releases another story soon ... and I will be waiting. Highly recommended reading here! *****

Author: Lynsay Sands
Title: The Brat

Balan of Gaynor needs a rich wife in the worst way, but does he need one badly enough to dare to wed the infamous Brat, aka, Murie, King Edward's beloved goddaughter? Something makes him believe there is more to Murie than her nickname implies, making him dare to disrupt an evil plot against her and win her heart for his own. However, not everyone wishes them well, so even as the pair finds great joy, someone is trying to turn Murie into a widow.

**** It is refreshing to see a story told so sweetly and without relying on artificial excesses. Murie's true nature and how she copes with the challenges of the court is a profound reminder to not be quick to judge, and her superstitions are very amusing. If you miss good, old-fashioned romances, then hurry and grab this. ****

Author: Patricia Grasso
Title - Tempting the Prince

Belle Flambeau and her six sisters each have a special "gift". Belle's is a healing touch. Belle's passion for gardening has made her famous in certain circles. Belle is happy with her lot in life and is about to marry. But it all changes when a vicious attack leaves her with an ugly scar on her face. Belle's fiancée dumps her and Belle retreats from society.

The Flambeau Sisters do not know who their father is (except for Fancy, who is not telling). They only know he is a duke and he always provides well for them. But after Belle's attack, their father comes forward to acknowledge them. Worried for the safety of his daughters, the duke and his wife convince the girls to move in with them. This is not as awkward as you would think. The duke has always cared for his six daughters and the duchess, "Roxie", greets them with open arms. In fact, Roxie treats the six sisters as if they were her own daughters, offering love and words of wisdom. Belle is the only daughter Roxie cannot convince to go out into society again. Belle wants only to be left alone to tend the gardens.

Prince Mikhail "Mick" Kazanov wants a loving, nurturing wife, not one of the shallow fortune hunters that are constantly vying for his attention. His young daughter, Bess, is eager for a new mother as well. Bess insists that Mick search through all the "mummy stores" and get one who knows a lot of stories, loves laughing, plays in the garden, helps with tea parties, and bakes happiness cakes. And upon sighting Belle, Mick knows he has found the perfect woman to be his wife. Problem is that Belle's scar would keep her from allowing anyone to meet her, much less court and marry her. Thus Mick, the duke, and a select few others get together and begin scheming.

Meanwhile, London is being plagued by a murderer dubbed "The Society Slasher". The Slasher's victims are female. He slashes his victim's throat, leaves a gold sovereign in her hand, and takes some of her hair for a souvenir. And Belle just may be next.

***** I found this enchanting story to be a subtle twist on the "Beauty & the Beast" tale. The book caught my attention with the very first line, the Slasher stalking his latest prey. There is so much more going on than my synopsis reveals. Author Patricia Grasso has many secondary characters throughout the entire book; however, I never found myself confused by them all or distracted from the main plot by rambling. There is no "filler" within the pages to deal with. Everybody mentioned is relevant to the story. I became so enthralled by everyone and everything that I felt as though I were actually there. I came to know each character's quirk and attitude. I could guess how each would react to news. And let us not forget the villains that readers all love to hate. This story has quite a few of them for me to despise!

This is part of a series, but I did not have to read the previous novels to enjoy it at all. Yet after reading this book, I intend to search the book store for "To Charm a Prince", "To Love a Princess", "Seducing the Prince", and "Pleasuring the Prince". If they are even half as good as THIS title, I'm in for a treat. Patricia Grasso, you have a new fan in me! *****

Author: Carolyn Lampman
Title: Shadows in the Wind

Cole Cantrell and his son, Josh, find an unconscious young woman with no memory lying in front of their horse's hooves and decide to take her home. When she awakens, she has no memory and the only clue to her identity is a letter that indicates her name is Stephanie. As the months slip by, Stephanie's health is restored, but she still does not know who she is. Cole does though; she is the woman he loves. She has brought life and joy back into his home, but the shadow of the unknown truth lies between them and the future.

*** This sweet, classically themed tale evokes thoughts of Julie Garwood's westerns. The ironic twist at the end is charming and you will root for the protagonists to get their happily ever after. ***

Author: Barbara Metzger
Title - The Hourglass

Ar, a member of the Dead Letters, aka, Grim Reapers, gambles with the devil to regain his humanity. After winning, the devil double crosses him and gives Ar six months in which to find the symbol of his office or face damnation. Before Ar can protest, he finds himself alive again, near the battlefields of Waterloo, with a newly liberated gremlin as his companion. Soon, he meets a disgraced, young, pregnant widow and marries her out of kindness. Yet, as the weeks pass, Ar finds himself growing to love Genie, his wife, and though his powers baffle her, she feels something in kind for this strange man who has defended and befriended her so well. However, will death claim its due, or will Ar find happiness is a question that hangs over them every moment.

**** This book reminded me of the classic film, Death Takes a Holiday and of the first, and best book in Piers Anthony's Incarnations of Immortality series, Bearing an Hourglass. The premise, though not wholly new, is one seldom explored and is very well executed. Ar's pet gremlin is an added bonus, providing an amusing note to balance out the necessary moodiness. ****

Author: Taylor Jones
Title - The Untamed Earl

Estella's great love of pranks backfires so that she finds herself married to the boring Godolphon, Earl of Seabrook. She is utterly miserable, for the marriage is not based at all on love. She simply found herself trapped and having to save face, while her husband married her to get access to information to help in his investsigation into a smuggling ring. However, one of their wedding gifts, a "dog training" manual, offers some hope in Estella's quest to turn her union around. Yet, there is danger all around, and someone is taking advantage of Estella's penchant to make her look bad. Can the mismatched pair find love, or will circumstances tear them apart?

*** This is an unusual story. Estella often seems vain and shallow, while Godolphon's hair-trigger temper combine to make this romance seem utterly unworkable. Somehow though, a certain charm comes through as the sum of the parts of this book proves to be greater than the individual facets. ***

Author: Connie Mason
Title - Highland Warrior

Ross MacKenna first met Gillian MacKay on the field of battle when the tempestuous woman tried to kill him. He never expected to find himself married to her, but when her father offers her hand to him as a way to end a generations' old feud between their clans, that is just what happens. Their marriage begins on rocky ground, but passion is a powerful thing, and soon they find a common ground. However, revenge and hate are also powerful. When those opposed to the marriage, namely the two who lost out on marrying Ross and Gillian respectively conspire to end both the union and the truce, their new love is tested severely and almost to the point of death.

*** This is a story full of fire and passion, though the narrative seems a bit rushed at times. Nonetheless, if you are looking for a fast paced, fiery tale, this is the ticket. ***

Author: Karen Harper
Title - The First Princess of Wales

In the mid-fourteenth century young Joan of Kent is sent to live at the court of King Edward III and meets her heart’s destiny when she first arrives at court. Joan and Edward have an immediate attraction to each other even before they know each other’s true identities. When Joan learns the truth about the role that the royal Plantagenets, whose court she now lives in, played in the murder of her father she vows revenge for her family. Joan wants very much to avenge her father’s betrayers by destroying the royal family but finds her heart unwilling to hurt Prince Edward even as she fights her feelings of love for him. So ensues the private desires and passions between the Prince of Wales and Joan and their very public verbal sparring. But the winding paths of their separate lives would continue to bring them together and thrust them apart these two hearts that strained to be as one.

***** At first, I was having a difficult time getting into this novel concerning its Medieval Age time period and all the descriptions of life at court, but as I read on I was swept up in the epic love story of Edward, Prince of Wales, and his dearest Jeannette, Joan of Kent, and could just not read it fast enough. Karen Harper has written a lovely romance intertwined with the historic events of the Medieval Age. I was thrilled with Prince Edward’s perseverance in seeking a way to be with his lovely Jeannette even when she all but gave up on her heart’s desire. The First Princess of Wales is a very enchanting love story! *****

Author: Julia London
Title - The Perils of Pursuing a Prince
(Bk2 Desperate Debutantes)

Set in 1820, Greer Fairchild is left destitute by her guardian's death. In hope of avoiding being wed to the first offer, regardless of her say so in the matter, Greer travels to Wales in search of an inheritance she is not sure even exists. The good news is that Greer finds the inheritance DOES exist and is four thousand pounds. The bad news is that the inheritance went to Rhodrick Glendower, Earl of Radnor, the Prince of Powys. Rhodrick will not release the money to Greer unless she can give him proof that she is who she claims to be. So Greer writes to Lord Middleton, who is married to Greer's cousin, Ava Fairchild, in London for a letter of introduction. It will take over a month for the letter to reach London, find Lord Middleton, and for the return reply to reach Greer at Llanmair. Until then, Greer is Rhodrick's reluctant guest.

Greer's first impression of Rhodrick is tainted by Mr. Owen Percy who has traveled with Greer to Llanmair. Having only seen Percy at his best, Greer has no idea that all the tales he told her about the Prince of Powys are lies. The impression is made worse by Rhodrick himself, when he appears with his two enormous wolfhounds (Cain and Abel) and a bold scar upon his face, which would not have been so bad had the prince not been scowling down at her in displeasure.

Rhodrick is familiar with Percy's lies and scandals. Since Greer is in Percy's company, he assumes she's only trying to scam money from him too. No one can be as naïve as this woman appears to be! Yet at the same time, her story is intriguing. He decides the best thing to do is get rid of Percy and then wait for Lord Middleton's proof of Greer's identity. Greer believes that Percy has gone for help and refuses to believe that Percy left her after getting one hundred pounds. The lady grates on his last nerve!

After a bit of time together, the pair begin to thaw toward each other. Greer's hatred turns into desire of the mysterious prince who dares her to become his wife and princess.

***** This is the second book in the Desperate Debutantes Trilogy. I did not think the author could possibly write a story better than the first title (The Hazards of Hunting a Duke). I am very happy to be proved totally wrong! The hero of this story, Rhodrick, is not as hideous as Greer's first impression describes. But combined with the two wolfhounds, it gives the tale a small flavor of "Beauty and the Beast". In this case, however, Beauty is not tempted by a forbidden rose, but by an abandoned white mansion from her past that resides six miles away, which all are forbidden to visit. Author Julia London breathes life into the characters and I could not help but sympathize with both sides. Everything is detailed vividly, from the people involved to the places surrounding them. I easily envisioned everything and could not pull myself away from reading except for short trips to the restroom or to search for food. Extremely well done and highly recommended reading! *****

Author: Elizabeth Clarke
Title - The Bare Truth

Perhaps Juliette Garrison's means of securing employment at the Whitehall estate are not strictly on the up and up, but her skills make up for her white lies. Yet, one white lie turns out to be the key to her future. When she impulsively calls herself "Juliette Whitehall" in order to rescue an urchin, American Thomas Jameson hears and is impressed by a young lady who would defend a child with no status. When he turns up at a house party her employers give, it matters not a bit to Thomas that the woman who intrigued him is simply a lady's maid. But, Juliette truly is more than that; she is a long-lost grandchild of a nobleman. However, her happy reunion lasts only a short time, ending when her grandfather is murdered and she is accused of his death. Thomas is willing to help her escape, but he has nothing to offer her except freedom. In the days to come, for all her lies, Juliette will discover that she does need the truth to set her free.

**** Though historicals are not my first choice for reading material, I found this to be a compelling story that was quite difficult to put down. Juliette is a flawed, yet easilly likeable heroine whose dramatic life makes a fantastic story. ****

Author: Andrew Greeley
Title - Irish Linen

When a young Irish American soldier goes missing in Iraq, it falls to Dermot Coyne and his adoring, sensible, fey wife, Nualla McGraill, to do what they can to see about making sure he gets home safely. As per usual, they find that their present difficulty might have answers in the past, in this instance, the love story of another young Irishman and the beauty he fell for in Pre World War II Germany. As the two stories play out, truths are uncovered in a delightful fashion.

**** Reading Andrew Greeley is like putting on your favorite, comfy clothes and curling up by the fire. His gentle story telling style will make you swear he's a new incarnation of Taliesin, or some other Irish bard. Old friends reappear, reassuring you that they are still well and alive in his mind. Throughout the narrative, a lesson is given, but not in a preachy fashion, at all. Celebrate St. Patrick's Day or any day at all by giving yourself this treat. ****

Author: Cassie Edwards
Title - Savage Quest

Annamae's life has been the carnival since her family was slaughtered by Indians. Though she hates her work as a charlatan dream interpreter, she endures it with no hope of escape until her guardian brings in an Indian child he captured with the intent of displaying him a wild thing. Annamae is more than willing to take what risks she must to rescue the child and escape. They run into the boy's uncle's search party who takes them back to the camp. Once Cougar is convinced that Annamae is not responsible for his nephew's plight, he realizes that he is falling in love with her, for she resembles his lost love. Annamae by far prefers the honest life in the Indian camp to the fakeness of the carny world and the odious man who wanted her for his own. However, her guardians and her unwanted suitor might not give her up so easily.

*** If you are a fan of Indian romances, then this has all the trademarks of one and you will enjoy it. Though Annamae's easy adaption to the life in the wilderness stretches credulity, the story is written well enough to satisfy fans. ***

Author: Zoe Archer
Title - Love In A Bottle

Set in England, 1763. Sophie Andrews loves the field of botany; however, no one takes females seriously. Vexing, but all too true. That does not stop Sophie from studying and sketching to her heart's content. She is even trying to prove a theory on symbiosis. Her favorite uncle, Alforth "Uncle A" Morley, is the only one in the family who seems to understand Sophie at all. In fact, Sophie is in Whiltshire, with her uncle when she spies a rare specimen of fungi. Upon approaching the mushroom, she meets Ian Blackpool. Amazingly, Ian approves of her hobby.

Ian never tells Sophie that he is a gentleman, but he certainly never bothers to tell Sophie he is an elixir salesman, a peddler. When Ian spies Sophie in the crowd around his caravan, he can see her disappointment. Ian claims to have found the chemical combination that makes people fall in love ... or at least feel as though they are in love. Ian sells Love in a Bottle. Ian later makes sure to meet Sophie one last time, to apologize, before she leaves town. While doing so, Uncle A and his coachman are kidnapped by the notorious "Dark Dan McGannon". There is no time to call on the law for help. McGannon usually collects a ransom and then sells his victims into servitude. Sophie and Ian team up to rescue the men.

***** Readers, that is only the BEGINNING of this marvelous story. The author also includes Sophie's dominating mother, an engagement with an overbearing and unwanted suitor, the outlaw returning for revenge, and a romance unlike any other. Author Zoe Archer's writing talent has the similar flavor of Laura Kinsale's older titles. The heroine is someone readers can look up to and admire. The hero is intelligent, yet believable. I cannot recommend this novel highly enough. *****

Author: Jannine Corti Petska
Title: Rebel Heart

The year is 1873. When the wealthy Leif Danning realizes he cannot change Courtney's mind about leaving New York City to run off and wed Stanley Burgess in Santa Fe, he turns his attention to finding someone to protect his rash daughter. His solution is to hire an ex-gunfighter named Beau Hamilton. Without Courtney's knowledge, Beau will make sure she reaches Santa Fe safely. Once Courtney is wed, Beau is to quietly keep an eye on her for one year.

Beau is attracted to the lovely heiress the moment Leif points the lady out to him. Pampered as Courtney's life has always been, Beau knows Leif is right to find Courtney a watch dog. But Beau still believes this will be the easiest money he has ever earned.

Courtney could hardly wait to wed Stanley and begin their lives together on a ranch. The traveling is smooth, if a bit uncomfortable. The wedding is nice, if a bit rushed. Yet once married, Courtney begins getting many shocks. Stanley is murdered before her very eyes only a few hours after the wedding. She would be dead too if the stranger from the train ride had not showed up. Courtney decides to grow up and run Rancho Ortega herself. It sounds easy until Courtney finds out that her ranch raises sheep instead of cattle and Stanley left her with a pile of debt. As much as Beau Hamilton aggravates her, Courtney needs his help; especially when a neighboring ranch owner, Jared Stover, begins a range war with her. Courtney must learn how to defend herself - fast!

**** Author Jannine Corti Petska must have done a lot of research on sheep ranching to create such a beautiful and well written story. I only wish it could have been longer so Courtney would not have had to give in to her attraction to Beau so quickly. The main couple is very different from each other, but a perfect match. The author made sure that this is one pampered, but feisty, lady that readers cannot help but cheer for. Keep your eye on this author. I certainly will be. Jannine Corti Petska's future looks bright. ****

Author: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Title: Never A Lady

Colin Oliver, Viscount Sutton, left his countryside estate in Cornwall for London. Recently, Colin has been having the feeling of impending doom. Recalling that his own mother died at the same age he currently is, Colin decides it is time to find a bride and provide heirs for the family line. Thus the unwanted, but necessary, trip to London is done. What Colin does not expect is to find a face from his past. Madame Alexandra Larchmont may be the most sought after fortune teller for all the Society parties lately, but four years ago she had been a thief who tried to pick his pockets. Since the night she escaped him, Colin feared for the unknown girl's fate. The question now is whether she has really changed her ways or if she is using her talent of reading cards to gain entry into the homes of the upper crust.

The cards have warned Alexandra for years about a certain man that would enter her life and turn it upside down. Yet she never expects to see him at a London soiree. In trying to slip away unnoticed, she ends up overhearing an assassination plot. Trying to stay out of danger, but unable to sit by and do nothing, Alexandra leaves the host of the party an anonymous letter, explaining what she had overheard. Later, when Alexandra learns the host has been murdered, she rightfully fears for her own life. The only person she can turn to is Lord Sutton. It does not seem as though the gentleman recalls their encounter four years ago, but the longer she stays in his presence, the higher the odds that he will remember her. Even worse, the man may figure out just how much she yearns for his touch.

***** Author Jacquie D'Alessandro has yet to disappoint me with any of her romantic and suspense filled tales. Until the unlikely day occurs of D'Alessandro suddenly getting writer's block so badly that she totally flops in story telling (Heaven Forbid!), I will remain one of her biggest fans. Once again, all the characters in the story are very well developed and totally believable. The main and secondary characters are so detailed that each seem to have their very own personality and little quirks. I not only came to care for the main characters, but also all the secondary and a few of the background characters as well. (Little Robbie is a perfect example.) Wimpy, fainting, and useless females need not apply to be in any D'Alessandro novel. The same can be said for stiff, recherché, and boring men. Excellent and highly recommended reading! *****

Author: Victoria Alexander
Title - What a Lady Wants
(Bk 2 Last Man Standing series)

Set in London, 1854. Of the three remaining bachelors, Nigel Cavendish is the one most prone to outlandish behavior. Usually it involves married or widowed women. He knows that he must wed some day to produce an heir; however, he assumes he has many years before the drastic action must be taken. Nigel meets Felicity while escaping via the bedroom window of Felicity's neighbor. His short conversation with her leaves him intrigued, to say the least. He wrangles an introduction at a ball shortly thereafter and realizes that the lady might be the most dangerous female he has ever met. Her forthright manner and intelligence keeps him coming back, just to chat, or so he thinks.

Lady Felicity Melville is the only daughter of Lord Dunbury. She may be an amateur astronomer, but she is actually WISHING upon a star on the night that her life changes. Felicity wishes for "a future that is not staid and boring and ordinary. A man who will make the rest of my days an adventure. The grandest of adventures." When she hears a gunshot and sees someone slipping over her garden wall, she decides not to be meek and call for someone to help her. Instead, she starts up an odd conversation with the handsome rogue that climbs up her trellis, then tells him how to escape the area unseen. She immediately decides Nigel will do. He will need some reforming though. To do this, Felicity seeks out Nigel's twin sister, The Countess "Maddy" of Windham.

After meeting Felicity, Maddy is convinced that the young lady is perfect for her rascal of a brother. She becomes the perfect ally for Felicity. While the women plan their strategies, Nigel's Viscount father "Edmund" executes a plan of his own. Nigel will turn thirty-one in six more weeks and Edmund is handing over management of all the family's accounts, assets, investments, and properties to Nigel. During those six weeks, Nigel must study it all, but may come to his father for questions, help, and advice. It seems that Nigel's philandering ways are about to end.

***** When Felicity wished for the grandest of adventures, she got more than she bargained for. Unlike most heroines in recent Historical Romances, Felicity is intelligent as well as sharp and devious. Maddy's character is extraordinary also. I was delighted every time she entered the story. Author Victoria Alexander not only gives readers the romance they desire, but also hands them a story that they will never forget. I can hardly wait for the third novel in this series. OUTSTANDING! *****

Author: Victoria Alexander
Title - A Little Bit Wicked
(Bk 1 Last Man Standing series)

Set in London, 1854. Four titled gentlemen make a pact, the last of them to remain unwed will win four shillings (yes, just a token four shillings) and a bottle of rare Cognac. "Gideon" Pearsall, Viscount Warton, was married for a single day, years ago. He now considers Violet to be in the past, a youthful mistake that he will never repeat. Gideon knows he must marry soon to beget an heir. Until then, Gideon plans to enjoy himself with an enticing widow.

Lady "Judith" Chester has been a widow for about twelve years now. She had married Lucien when she was but eighteen. Even so, Judith is financially independent now and is determined to never wed again. (If only she could be rid of her sister-in-law as easily.) Of course, that does not mean Judith does without male companions. On their first night together, Judith makes sure that Gideon knows that their time together will be no more than a discreet adventure together. It will eventually end with no hard feelings and, if all goes as her previous discreet adventures did, they will still remain good friends once they part ways.

Susanna, Judith's close friend, keeps a sharp eye on the pair. The last thing she wants is Judith being hurt. Gideon's aunt, Louisa, feels the same way about her nephew and is vocal to the couple about it. Judith and Gideon never intended to begin falling in love with each other. Yet once their hearts begin to melt together, Violet shows back up, baring her sharp claws, and determined to marry Gideon again...whether he wants to or not.

**** The title may be "A Little Bit Wicked", but the hot scenes within this novel are a great deal more so! (Just the way I like it.) This is the beginning of a new four-book series (The Last Man Standing). The story holds little in the way of danger, but it is filled with plenty of tantalizing romance. Author Victoria Alexander remains one of the best writers today when it comes to Historical Romance. And do not worry, if you prefer a hint of danger with your romance, book two is coming out only one month later! ****

Author: Leslie LaFoy
Title - The Rogue's Bride

Following the untimely deaths of his father and brothers, Tristan Townsend returns to London to assume the family title. As the Marquis, he will be expected to wed, and the first woman who catches his eye is Lady Simone Turnbridge, the least likely prospect of the season. Known for her unconventional behavior, Simone has few hopes of marrying, nor does she really want to, until she meets Tristan. All that stands in their way is his former flame and the fact that someone is trying to kill all the heirs to his estate.

*** Ms. LaFoy effectively uses standard conventions to produce a fast-paced, intriguing romance. Her heroine is truly outstanding, hearkening back to ladies such as Jo March, but with her own unique sense of style. ***

Author: Kat Martin
Title - Heart of Honor

The moment Krista Hart hears the star attraction at a freak show speak, she knows he is not a monster, but a man who speaks Old Norse and she manages to procure his freedom. Leif Draugr is the son of a chieftain of a lost tribe of Vikings who followed his heart to seek what was beyond his island home. He is sure that the gods have brought him and Krista together. As her father turns him into a gentleman, Krista begins to feel something for this warrior as well, but he is determined to return to his land. Though he promises to take her with him, she really does not want to go. She has duties to her family and to the magazine she produces, even if those could lock her in a loveless marriage or get her killed.

**** This is a compelling take on "My Fair Lady" with a touch of "Brigadoon" thrown in, as well a a ton of passion to round things out nicely. Once again, Ms. Martin has a winning tale that is sure to please anyone who loves a good romance. ****

Author: Christina Dodd
Title - The Prince Kidnaps A Bride

Crown Princess Sorcha was six when her queen-mother died bearing a third daughter. From the day Grandmamma came to live with them, Sorcha felt like a project that was being molded. Oh, Grandmamma kept an eye on Sorcha's younger sisters, but Sorcha got special treatment that she did not want. It was up to Sorcha to continue the Beaumontagnian royal line.

Princess Sorcha has been betrothed to Prince Rainger de Leonides since infancy. Sorcha ends up in a remote convent until the age of twenty-five. While watching the sea she spies Arnou, a fisherman. However, this odd fisherman turns out to be Prince Rainger in disguise. He has been imprisoned in a dungeon and rumored to have died. During his time in the dungeon, Rainger has changed into a dangerous and hard man. He has returned to win back his kingdom and Sorcha, no matter what.

Sorcha must travel home, with Rainger still disguised as a fisherman. But unlike Rainger, Sorcha has not lost her ability to trust. It is up to Rainger to somehow keep her reined in and protected.

**** Author Christina Dodd has yet to disappoint me when it comes to historical romance. Sorcha's character is a bit hard to believe at times, but I love the way Dodd has both main characters behaving in completely opposite manners. Another great tale for romance fans to cherish! ****

Author: Shannon Drake
Title - Beguiled

England is in a turmoil. The anti-monarchists are causing political furror and a mysterious killer is eliminating those who support the crown. If they could find out who A.Anonymous was, he or she would probably be on the killer's hit list, but the outspoken editorial writer lives in relative safety under their pseudonym. No one would guess the author to be Ally Grayson, a very proper, engaged young lady. Ally has dreams of being a great writer, ala Conan Doyle, but imagines her only adventures will be on paper until a highwayman kidnaps her and wins her heart. Unfortunately, she has an arranged marriage in her near future, and her fiance', Mark, is just not as exciting as the stranger. Or is he? Little does she know, the man to whom she is engaged is the man she loves and is trying to keep both England and her safe using his secret identity. Nor does she comprehend how much danger there is. Of course, Mark does not realize how much he needs her yet, either.

*** The idea of a "love triangle" involving the heroine, the hero, and one or the other's secret identity is not a new one, but it is not common in historical novels. It is still an intriguing device, well combined here with a complex mystery and interesting historical insights. Ms. Drake's loyal fans will be pleased, and new readers should be as well. ***

Author: Elaine Barbieri
Title - Hawk's Prize

Drew Hawk went through the Civil War believing he was an orphan and that his siblings were all dead, something each of his them also thought true. Now, he has returned home to Galveston where he lands in the town bordello, not for fun, but because a wounded leg is keeping him laid low. The madam's adopted daughter, Tricia Shepherd, takes care of the handsome soldier, and when he begins searching for who killed his best friend, she is at his side. However, that's the most dangerous place to be; the man who destroyed Drew's family is in Galveston and determined to finish what he began long ago.

*** The series ends on one of the most heartwarming notes in literary history. If you have followed the rest of the Hawk series, the conclusion will leave a smile on your face.***

Author: Jocelyn Kelley
Title - My Lady Knight
(Bk 4 Ladies of St. Jude's Abbey)

Queen Eleanor, wife of King Henry II, mother of Prince Richard - the king's heir - and his brother Prince John, had established St. Jude's Abbey. The ladies within the abbey's walls are different than most, however. Each train in various talents, knowing that at any time the queen may call upon their service. As this story begins, the queen had been imprisoned by her husband almost a dozen years ago. In all that time, there had been no communication between her and St. Jude's Abbey. The king's favor remained with the Abbey as long as the abbess made no attempt to contact the queen. However, as the abbess pointed out, there was nothing to keep the queen from writing to the abbess for "guidance on her life".

Isabella de Monfort's major talents are in logic and working with herbs, elements, and science. For the past six months Isabella has been trying to devise the proper formula for a compound she heard about in a fantastic tale. When properly mixed and lit with a brand one can create a controlled explosion. She was getting closer to the solution, but has not quite figured it all out as yet. An accident has just caused some of Isabella's ingredients to mix and blow up the barn when she learns that the abbess has sent for her. Isabella's calm logic is the reason she has been singled out to serve Queen Eleanor in an important errand. The queen left documents within a casket residing in Lincoln. Isabella is given the key to the casket, but in order to use it she must first FIND the casket. It may be anywhere within Lincoln. It is vital Isabella collect the documents and deliver them to the queen by month's end. To assist Isabella, the abbess tells her to meet her nephew, Lord Jordan le Courtenay. He is familiar with the city's secrets and is intelligent Between Isabella and Jordan, completing the task in time is possible.

Isabella finds Jordan at Kenwick Priory. Jordan's dear friend, Sir Ryce de Dolan, died the previous fall in a tournament for a female's hand. The monks buried Ryce where he fell, on unconsecrated ground. Jordan plans to disinter the body (no more than bones now) and move it to La Tour de Courtenay for burial beneath sacred soil. Isabella assists Jordan with Ryce's remains, even helping with the digging, before beginning the search for the documents. The pair is confused when they find a dagger beneath Ryce's bones. The design on the blade belongs to "the Brotherhood", a secret and deadly organization of which no one will speak. The Brotherhood wants the dagger back, thus begins the attacks. Soon the pair is joined by Lord Weirton of Kenwick Castle and his sister, Lady Odette, in their journey to Lincoln. Once there, the real danger begins.

***** Author Jocelyn Kelley has outdone herself in this soon-to-be bestseller novel! Unlike the previous ladies, Isabella's weapon is a whip. (I still have hope that a pair of sai will be used by one of the ladies in a future tale.) I could not help but admire Isabella for her cool and logical way of thinking. The hero, Jordan, is one of honor, intelligence, and curiosity. He came across to me as a blend of knight and street rat. Extremely well done story that will linger in your thoughts long after you turn the last page! *****

Author: Catherine Kean
Title - A Knight's Vengeance

King Henry ordered Lord Arthur Brackendale to besiege the keep at Wode and kill Lord Edouard. Arthur obeyed his king. Therefore; at the tender age of ten, young Geoffrey de Lanceau held his father, Edouard, as he died, tainted with the title of "traitor". Geoffrey never believed his father betrayed their king. Geoffrey vowed that one day he would have his vengeance upon Lord Brackendale and reclaim Wode. Eighteen years passed.

Due to his valor in the King's Crusades, Geoffrey de Lanceau has been granted the new position as lord of Branton Keep. With his faithful friend, Dominic de Terre, Geoffrey has decided to begin his quest to fulfill his vow. To do so, he kidnaps Lord Brackendale's lovely daughter, Lady Elizabeth, and Mildred, a gray-haired lady-in-waiting. Geoffrey will let Arthur suffer fear for his daughter before sending the ransom demand. To save Elizabeth, Arthur must give up Wode or fight. But Geoffrey never expects to fall in love with his feisty and brave captive.

Lady Elizabeth has always dreamed of marrying for love, but she is promised to an old baron which rumors claim his cruel bed games is what killed his previous three wives. Then she is abducted by a scarred, tormented rogue who attracts her even though she despises him. Elizabeth wants nothing more than to escape with Mildred and return to her father. But Elizabeth and Geoffrey must join forces to find out the truth of what happened in the past, before it tears apart the present.

***** Fabulous! Author Catherine Kean gives readers everything they could possibly want in this tale of heroism and betrayal. There is a handsome and tormented hero, a brave and loyal heroine, a jealous and vindictive courtesan, as well as a romance that overcomes all obstacles. This will be one of the best historical romances of the year! *****

Author: Cheryl Holt
Title - Too Wicked to Marry

After her weak-willed, utterly despicable brother wagers away not only their home, but Helen Mansfield's virtue, she goes to Luke Westmoreland, hoping for mercy. Yet, the licentious nobleman has none for her, at first, and insists that the bargain be kept. However, he finds himself treating her gently and unexpectedly reluctant to cause her any pain, physical or emotional. When the deal is consumated, it is a matter of love, not lust, though neither will admit it. Because of this stubborn refusal to admit the truth, Luke knows he will have to leave Helen behind, not realizing that the revolting villains ever to grace a romance novel are waiting to fill the void he leaves behind.

*** Though some parts are far too graphic, the redemptive story and fascinating secondary romance compensate for that. The antagonists are utterly evil, with absolutely no saving qualities. The subplot of Robert and Patricia's transformations and growing love is beautiful, however. In fact, it is more interesting than Luke and Helen's tale. ***

Author: Bonnie Vanak
Title - The Panther and the Pyramid

Graham Tristan's dreams have been haunted by the image of a red headed beauty he has never seen until the night he chooses to lose his virginity. The woman who is doing the same with him's wig slips, revealing her to be the dream lady. Then, later, at a more formal affair, he sees her again. She is Jillian, the daughter of the man who abused him long ago in the most unspeakable of ways. She needs to escape before her father can sell her, and Graham offers her a rescue, become his wife. Jillian finds she has no choice but to wed this enigmatic man who is unwilling to share himself beyond the barest of details. However, when an emergency forces Graham to go on a treasure hunt, Jillian proves to be the key to not only his success, but to his heart.

*** Lush, exotic backgrounds provide for a hypnotic setting. Despite the brilliant sunlight, the tone is rather dark much of the time. This is no gentle romance, but one where revenge and passion take center stage. ***

Author: Cindy Holby
Title - Whirlwind

Mary Dunleavy hoped she would never see the infuriating cowboy who saw her at her worst, but Zane Brody is a fellow passenger on the train taking her to Laramie where she will be the town schoolteacher. He even lives in that town. Still, it could be worse, and indeed, it gets that way rapidly. First, Indians board the train and take Mary's doctor brother away with them to cure their chief. So, Mary decides to horse-nap Zane's thoroughbred and find her sibling. Naturally, he comes after her and the two, along with a goat named for the devil, decide to try and rescue the doctor. Before they can, other Indians capture them so they can have someone to torture. Although Mary manages to escape, she knows she can't leave the man she has come to love trapped.

*** Zane and Mary hurtle from one misadventure to another without stopping. Though the scenes at the Indian camp tend to have a very graphic feel, there is not much actually "shown". Ms. Holby is adept at painting scenes by implication. It's refreshing to find a romance that does not go too far into the red zone. ***

Author: Betina Krahn
Title - The Book of True Desires

To gain her grandfather's financial backing for an expedition to seek King Solomon's Mines, Cordelia O'Keefe agrees to go on a quest to prove her worth as an adventress and locate the Gift of the Jaguar, a valuable Mayan artifact. As galling as the delay and having to prove herself is, it is made more so by the fact that her cantankerous grandfather sends along "the worst butler in the history of butling", Hartford Goodnight, a man who has been forced into being somewhat of an indentured servant to the old man to repay a debt, to authenticate her work. The two strike sparks off each other from the outset, first due to profound irritation, then due to something much pleasanter. Danger makes for unexpected bedfellows.

*** Lush, exotic settings and quick witted dialog keep this story moving well. The romance takes a long time to build, but there is a good adventure story as well as a love story. ***

Author: Donna Fletcher
Title - Taken by Storm

In the historical romance Taken By Storm, the dashing and brave American Burke Longton is in Scotland on a mission to save his imprisoned brother when, unfortunately, he also finds himself wrongly imprisoned. He is amazed when he is freed from the prison by a ragtag band of outlaws led by the beautiful and courageous Storm. When Storm and her men agree to help him locate and free his brother Burke joins the outlaws and finds he cannot resist his attraction to Storm. Burke is challenged to break the walls that Storm has built around her heart as she is determined to never love again. Even though Burke declares his love for Storm and is the first to touch her heart in years she knows that they can have no future as their destinies lie in separate lands.

***** Donna Fletcher’s Taken By Storm is an adventurous romance set in the wild Scottish Highlands. It was exciting to read about a stubborn and courageous woman who leads a band of outlaws and who goes head to head with an obstinate American. This was the first historical romance I have read in many years, and it was a very enjoyable read with a surprisingly bittersweet ending. *****

Author: Laura Kinsale
Title - ShadowHeart

The assassin, Allegreto, first appeared in the novel "For My Lady's Heart" and readers screamed for his story to be told. Finally, his story has arrived!

Elena's life had been simple, sweet, and shielded for as long as she could recall. When Sir Raymond de Claire went to his lord and asked for Elena's hand in marriage, the customary background check was done of her blood lines. That was the end of her innocence. The shocking truth was revealed. Unknown to most, including herself, she was Princess Elena Rosafina di Monteverde, the direct descendant from the ruling house of Monteverde. She was the granddaughter of Prince Ligurio and long since thought dead. The Lady Melanthe (from "For My Lady's Heart") had hidden Elena, with the help of an assassin, from the sight of those who would see her dead.

The house of Riata ruled Monteverde for now. Knowing the people would embrace Elena as the true ruling house, she was charged to marry Franco Pietro which would combine the houses of Riata and Monteverde. Unhappy, but with no other choice, Elena set sail for Monteverde and her marriage.

Allegreto Navona, the illegitimate son of the cruel Gian Navona intercepted Elena's passage. She was taken to his island and was saved from being forced to wed the Riata. Instead, she would be forced to wed Allegreto of the Navona house. His marriage to Elena would seal his claim to rule Monteverde. Then he and his men, specially trained by him, would invade the city Monteverde and become the ruling lords.

Elena fell in love with Allegreto, but he was a man with many dark secrets. He claimed to have no heart, but pledged his life and service to Elena. Once in Monteverde, Elena must somehow return her people to the peaceful ways of her grandfather. But the houses of Riata and Navona caused unrest and some others plotted Elena's death, thus eliminating the last of her house.

***** Author Laura Kinsale and her legendary ability to weave spell binding tales has come forward once again to offer readers the long awaited story of the mysterious assassin known as The Raven. The result is "Shadow Heart" and it was worth the wait!

Elena's character is so realistic that readers can easily sympathize with her and feel the uncertainty that consumes the young princess and slowly changes her to become the strong leader the people so desperately need. As for the two house leaders who fight to claim Elena's hand, the reader is able to see and understand BOTH sides. The story, itself, flows smoother than silk with remarkable secondary characters that will claim the hearts of all. Highly recommended reading! This book will stand out from all others on your Keeper Shelf! *****

Author: Celeste Bradley
Title - Seducing the Spy

A dreadful muddle of events lead to Lady Alicia Lawrence becoming a social outcast five years ago, but now, she's set to return due to an equal measure of happenstance. After overhearing a plot to kill the Prince Regent, she goes to Stanton Horne, the Lord of Wyndham with the story, knowing he alone among the powerful will speak to a pariah such as herself. She does not know he is one of the Royal Four, or that he has a strange talent that makes him able to know who lies and who does not, except for her. Stanton can not read Alicia, and that makes her fascinating and dangerous. He needs her to identify the potential killer, and the perfect ruse entails her pretending to be his mistress. Thus, her life of poverty is ended to accomodate the ploy, and perhaps that would be enough for Alicia, but she's becoming as obsessed with Wyndham as he is with her. With the Chimera on the loose, that might be too much of a distraction.

*** Alicia is a fun heroine and the reparte' between her and Wyndham is charming. Secondary characters, especially her ladies "maid" truly add to the well - paced plot that rockets to a thrilling conclusion. ***

Author: Jackie Ivie
Title - The Knight Before Christmas

The story is set in the year 1455. Myles Donal is ordered by his father to marry the female nicknamed the Harridan of the Highlands. Having delayed as long as possible, Myles sets out for the Eschoncan Keep to meet and wed his betrothed. Yet before he can reach his destination, he becomes trapped in a furious blizzard. With no other choice, Myles stumbles into a small croft. He never expects to find a female already within, also riding out the blizzard. She has laryngitis and communication is all but impossible. Yet she is clearly high born; therefore, untouchable. But when Myles learns she is the daughter of Laird Eschoncan, he does not even try to hold back his desire for her.

Kendran Eschoncan ran away from an arranged marriage. The blizzard traps her in a small croft and she has no choice but to wait it out. She does not expect to share her shelter with anyone, especially not a man! Men cause nothing but pain. Kendran has marks from her father's previous beatings to prove it. However, their battle of wills soon turns into passion.

When they eventually meet again at Eschoncan Keep, Myles learns that Kendran is the not the daughter he is expected to marry. To keep Kendran's honor intact, they can neither show their love for each other, nor admit to having met before. Through it all, one of Kendran's sisters, Lady Sybil, gives the two star-crossed lovers advice. Before it is over, they may have to admit that Lady Sybil is touched by the fey after all.

**** Author Jackie Ivie delivers a little magic, a little fate, and a lot of passion in this tale of Highland romance. I found some surprises and a twist or two as Myles and Kendran battle destiny. As for Lady Sybil, that character is more than meets the eye. I can hardly wait to dive into her story! Excellent reading here. ****

Author: Brenda Joyce
Title - The Stolen Bride

Since childhood, Elle de Wareanne and Sean O'Neill have been the best of friends as well as step-siblings. Moreover, they are each other's first love until the day he disappeared. Two years pass, and Elle is forced to believe he was unable to keep his promise to return, and so pledges to wed another. Then, before she can, Sean comes home, under a death sentence for treason. Against all wisdom, she abandons everything to help him escape and run away with him. In the end, though, both of them are captured, but only she is freed. Sean is due to hang, and only by agreeing to wed a man she does not love can she hope to use the connections that come with that union to free her true love. It is what Sean wants for her, as he believes himself too broken and dangerous to be right for her. Elle does not agree, but she has honor to consider.

*** Though overly long and feeling almost padded at times, the final chapters have a heart-breaking quality that atones for any excess verbage. Sean and the secondary character of Peter have a poignancy that will bring tears to your eyes. ***

Author: Lynsay Sands
Title - Love is Blind

Every girl who has ever worn glasses knows how Lady Clarissa feels as this story opens; as if no man will ever look twice at you again because you are four-eyed. Clarissa could cope with that, however. She can barely cope with not seeing and the inherent clutziness that comes with her dim view on the world, but her stepmother has forbidden her to wear her spectacles. This works out well for Adrian Montfort, Earl of Mowbray as the war has left a scar on his face that repels all women who see him clearly. He seeks Clarissa out, and soon begins to court her and to fall in love. He even wins her hand, but their happiness might be short-lived as someone wants to kill Clarissa.

***** This is a pure delight of a story. Clarissa and Adrian's misunderstanding is poignantly realistic, and her kindness in forgiving those who wrong her is lovely. Love is Blind is the epitomy of a feel good romance. The mystery is an added bonus. *****

Author: Jeane Westin
Title - Lady Katherine's Wild Ride<

Lady Katherne "Kit" Lindsay has resided within her uncle's home for years. During this time, Kit has been treated like a servant. But when her uncle, Sir William, tried to force his attentions upon her late one night, she was compelled to defend her virtue. It was a fight Kit would have lost had the kitchen maid, Martha, not shown up in time. Since Lady Joan, Kit's cousin, always hated having Kit live with them, Kit figured that she had no time to lose. The two women fled.

Master Jolly takes Kit as an apprentice. She will be a leading lady on the stage, opposite Jeremy Hughes. Jeremy is well known for being very talented, on stage and with the ladies. Jeremy watches as Kit's acting abilities get better-and-better. Kit and Jeremy cannot help becoming attracted to each other. But danger always surrounds Kit. How can she hope to win Jeremy's true love without the law locating her?

**** All-in-all, I found this to be a very good read. There is not as much danger as I thought there would be, yet the plot never slowed down too far. Great for a Summer beach read! ****

Author: Caroline Linden
Title - What a Gentleman Wants

Marcus Reece, duke of Exeter, had always acted to preserve the family name, and his twin brother's along with it. To keep his brother, David, from being called out for a duel of honor, Marcus again cleans up David's mess and sends him out of London for awhile. But David ends up injuring his leg when his carriage wrecked during a race in a small town called Middleborough. The vicar's widow, Hannah Preston, takes care of David as he heals. David comes to care for Hannah, and for her small daughter, Molly. David is sincere when he proposes to Hannah, but the day before the wedding he panics.

Hannah curses her own idiocy. With few choices open to her, she weds a gentleman she hardly knows. David escorts Hannah and Molly to London, says he must be away on business for a bit, and promptly disappears. Hannah does not learn that David forged Marcus's name to the marriage license until the cold and aloft duke appears before her in person with accusations. Of course, Hannah is ready to simply walk out. But before she can, David and Marcus's sister, Celia, and stepmother, Rosalind, arrives and proceeds to gush all over Hannah and Molly.

Reluctantly, Hannah agrees to play the part of Marcus's duchess for a while. In doing so, Hannah will help secure Molly's future and Marcus can keep his relatives from hating David. The entire mess would sort itself out within only a month or two. Meanwhile, Marcus can continue his investigation with Bow Street of a counterfeiting ring. David seems to be mixed up in entire counterfeiting scheme and Marcus hopes to prove his brother innocent. But with tempting Hannah nearby, Marcus is having trouble concentrating. Marcus learns that by playing the part of husband, he has a chance to claim happiness.

***** Caroline Linden's characters are so vivid that, for awhile, I forgot they were all part of a fictional piece. As I read, I could easily see the events unfold before me and felt as though I were a part of everything. An outstanding story that I hated to see end. BRAVA! *****

Author: Jo Beverly
Title -To Rescue a Rogue

After being nearly compromised by a lech, Lady Mara McBride turns to the only man she feels will not be utterly horrified to have her turn up wearing underwear and a sheet, Dare Debenham, one of her brother's oldest friends, and someone she loves. However, romance is impossible, in Dare's mind, for thanks to an evil woman, he has become addicted to opium and will not force Mara to endure the nightmare he faces. She is determined, and so, for her, he struggles to best his beast, only to find that that is not the sole challenge to their bliss.

*** This is a weighty topic, one that the author handles well. Although the story felt padded at times, the heart of the tale is indeed food for thought, and commendable. ***

Author: Naomi Bellis
Title -Step Into Darkness

To save her father from a death sentence in France, Sarah Leaford will do anything; as evidence by first her plea to a known criminal to help her, then her bargain to marry a man she does not love when "Gentleman" Jack refuses her. However, Jack has a change of heart, upon the advice of his spectral father, to take the opportunity to set things right; years ago, Jack was accused, albeit falsely, of murdering Sarah's grandfather, her father's father, and helping her might be the path to clearing his name and balancing the scales. Since that time, he has established a reputation as a criminal, but it is only a guise for his true activities. Those skills make him the best suited to help Sarah, and so, she accepts his offer to help when he changes his mind. Thus, Jack and Sarah become allies in an adventure that will span the continent and bring equal amounts of love and peril into their lives.

*** This fast paced adventure has something for almost every historical fan; romance, adventure, a trace of magic, secrets, and espionage. The plot is just complex enough to intrigue without boggling the mind. Both Jack's spectre of a father and his enigmatic boss make for fascinating supporting characters that you will want to see more of. ***

Author: Morag McKendrick Pippin
Title -Blood Moon Over Britain

Cicely Winterbourne would be just an ordinary file clerk except for the fact that the top secrets of WWII are filed by her. She knows more than any one person should and becomes the most hunted person in England in December 1942. She posses the last piece of information to breaking the German Enigma Code and is not sure who to trust as those closest to her are being murdered. Realizing that there is only one person she can trust to turn the code over to, Cicely sets out on a journey from London to Cornwall.

Special Inspector Alistair Fielding of Scotland Yard knows that Cicely is keeping secrets. He joins her on her journey with the code, and both of them are caught up in the turmoil and espionage of warfare. Leaving a trail of bodies in their wake, both Cicely and Alistair are deep in wartime subterfuge as they risk their lives to keep the code safe from the Germans, Russians, and even spies in their own government. Strongly attracted to each other but still wary about trusting each other, Cicely and Alistair are caught up in a fierce passion during the unpredictable and harrowing times of WWII.

***** At first, the reading of Blood Moon Over Britain seems to be a bit bogged down with all the unfamiliar idioms unique to the British dialect and the WWII time period, but that is also part of the story’s charm and the uniquely British expressions do become familiar as the story progresses. From the nightly blackouts and London bombings to warfare espionage, Morag McKendrick Pippin covers all the cloak and dagger aspects of a good suspense novel combined with the passion of a good romance story. I really enjoyed reading Blood Moon over Britain and found it very difficult to put down as I was very caught up in this fast paced romantic adventure riddled with intrigue. *****

Author: Julia London
Title -The Hazards of Hunting A Duke
(The Desperate Debutantes)

Our story begins in March, 1819. Lady Ava Fairchild is heartbroken when Aunt Cassandra dies. Then her stepfather, Lord Downey, absconds with the fortune and disappears for a year. Ava, her younger sister, Phoebe, and her cousin, Greer, are left in the cold hands of Downey's sister. No money is left for their care. Their time in Society seems to be over. But Ava soon has enough of it and decides to hunt down the rake Jared Broderick. Jared is the Marquis of Middleton and heir to a dukedom. He would be the ticket to their freedom.

Jared is sick of hearing his father, the current Duke of Redford, harp on about settling down and begetting an heir. To shut him up, Jared chooses Ava. Of course, his father is not happy since he had another lady in mind. After all, Ava has no money at all to bring. Yet Jared does not care. Their marriage would be one of convenience. She would give him an heir and stay out of his life otherwise. In return, he would care for her, her sister, and her cousin.

However, Ava soon decides that she does not want a marriage of convenience, she wants passion. So now Ava is out to win her husband's heart, with a bit of help from her unusual maid (former lady of the night).

***** Author, Julia London, takes a realistic situation of the time and turns it into a wonderful romance that will bring a blush to your cheeks and warmth to your heart. Since Ava's maid is a former lady of the night, the bedroom scenes are very steamy. Ava is a very strong heroine that will do anything to help the ones she loves. Her strength and determination is a wonder to behold. The whole plot sounds so simple, yet I found myself unable to put the book down for even the shortest of time. I never got bored or wanted to strangle one of the main characters. No sappy people, well written, and downright enthralling. Highly recommended! *****

Author: Annette Blair
Title - Scoundrel in Disguise

This story is set on the East Sussex Coast, England, 1847. Jade Smithfield's grandmother unwittingly sold a land option to the South Downs Railroad before she died. When Jade learned that her man of affairs, Neil Kirby, engineered it, she discharged him. However, when Kirby left he took her inheritance, her copy of the land option sale, and the money from the sale with him. Jade needed that money and receipt if she was to have any hope of stopping the railroad from laying track on her property and keep them from uncovering her grandmother's secret. Then there is Giles Dudley, her fourth cousin twice removed. He intends to inherit the Peacehaven Estate by proving Jade's grandmother insane at the time she made her will. If he succeeds, Dudley inherits everything. Jade and all the people who depend on her will be thrown into the streets.

Marcus Fitzalan wants to save his disabled brother's railroad, and the families who will lose their living without it, by investigating into the railroad accidents halting construction. To do so, Marcus applies as Jade's new man of affairs. But Marcus finds out upon meeting Jade that his philandering days are over. The more learns about Jade and the women and children she takes care of, the more he knows that Jade must have a very good reason for wanting to stop the railroad's construction. However, he cannot help Jade if she does not trust and confide in him.

***** Author Annette Blair combines action and romance with strong characters and a bit of comedy to give her readers a story they will never forget! I could not help but fall in love with little Emmy and her puppy's antics. Nor could I stop myself from feeling as though I knew all the main and secondary characters for real. The story is written so smoothly that I felt as if I was a part of their circle. Such writing talent is rare and I am grateful to have come across this novel. It is heading straight for my Keeper Shelf, never to be loaned out, and hoarded for my future reading pleasure alone. Annette Blair is a master (or is it mistress?) of the Historical Romance genre. I cannot recommend this tale highly enough and I plan to tell everyone I know about it. *****

Author: Jocelyn Kelley (aka Jo Ann Ferguson)
Title - A Moonlit Knight
(Ladies of St. Jude's Abbey #3)

Queen Eleanor d'Aquitaine goes to St. Jude's Abbey in England for a third time. Sister/Lady Mallory de Saint-Sebastian is the best archery person within the abbey. Mallory will be the sister of St. Jude's Abbey to serve the queen and join her pantheon of heroines.

The two King Henrys (father and son) battle to see which one rightfully holds the English throne and controls the destinies of all who live within their realm. Queen Eleanor is residing at her court in Poitiers. There are times when Queen Eleanor's guards cannot be with her. For those times, she needs a lady who can protect her. Therefore, Lady Mallory becomes part of the queen's personal household guards.

Queen Eleanor's "Court of Love" is anything but what the title describes. The court overflows in subterfuge, gossip, and betrayal. When the queen's life is in danger, Mallory and her bow are there. Thus the queen requests that Mallory teach archery to her ladies. Of course Mallory obeys, but none of the queen's ladies are serious about it. They prefer to flirt with any man nearby. So Mallory finds herself protecting the queen, dealing with sappy ladies, and wondering just what Saxon Fitz-Juste is really up to. He may really be a jongleur, playing a lute and captivating people with his tales, but something does not sit quite right.

***** Each book is a story in itself. This tale is full of drama and kept me wondering who Mallory could possibly trust in the court of snakes. The history of this knightly era makes a perfect back ground for the characters. The author keeps history straight, never bending it to her own whim, and this makes it so believable. Whether you love history, historical romances, or simply high drama, this book is made just for you! *****

Author: Deborah MacGillivray
Title - A Restless Knight

Setting begins in the Scotland Highlands, the year 1296. The Sacred Mists is a warding set long ago by the Daughter of Anne, to ward the Glen Shane. The mists kept the passes hidden by a fog so none could see the entrance ... until now.

As revenge upon the Sisters MacShane for scorning his matchmaking efforts for nearly a decade, King Edward sent them dragons for husbands. Julian, Earl of Challon, is known as the Black Dragon. He has been the king's champion for far too long. He and his two brothers, Sir Guillaume and Sir Simon, have tired of war. Edward's insatiable greed and uncontrollable rages have grown stale. The three Dragons of Challon want only to settle down and have families. Sir Julian is to wed Tamlyn MacShane and seize control of the domain known as Glenrogha. This is a task much easier said than done. Tamlyn has good reason to hate Edward and wants nothing to do with the Norman's king. Yet for the sake of her clan, Tamlyn must surrender without a fight. Julian must convince the Scottish wildcat that she would still be the lady of Glenrogha, even though she would no longer be the top person. The Black Dragon would be the true leader, but he would act as a buffer between King Edward and her people.

Tamlyn is the youngest of the sisters and has the blood of the Sidhe within her. She has the gift of sight, of the Kenning. With a touch she knows of the bloody horrors Julian has witnessed and the brother he lost at Berwick. The last thing Tamlyn wants is to see the horrors of Berwick being committed within Glenrogha. With the aid of the Three Wise Ones of the Wood, her Sidhe gift, and her own black dragon, Tamlyn is charged with the task of keeping her people safe.

But neither the dragon, nor the wildcat, expected to find their soulmates!

***** This terrific Highland tale, with a pinch of Fae magick, captured my attention from the very first page. I was told long ago that an author should write what s/he knows. This way the author can better express the intensity of the characters, the places, and will write the little things known only to those who has experienced them. Author Deborah MacGillivray does this with a style and grace befitting the noble Knights and Clans of Yore. I could see the characters so vividly in my mind that they almost seemed real. The author seemed to breathe life into her characters! For those of you who do not care of Scottish Historical Romances, take a second look at this one. I usually avoid Highland romances, but was told to read it anyway. I am glad I did. I all but inhaled this novel! Highly recommended reading! *****

Author: Kasey Michaels
Title - A Gentleman By Any Other Name
(The Beckets of Romney Marsh series)

Thirty-year-old Chance Becket remembers his horrid beginning. He has spent most of his life trying to forget. He married well in Society, had a daughter, and even landed a prestigious position with the War Office. Now chance is a widow, as of six months ago. Alice, his five-year-old daughter, needs the attention Chance does not believe he can give. Therefore, he quickly hires a nanny, Julia, and off they go to Romney Marsh on the coast. Chance full expected to simply drop Alice and Julia off at Becket Hall, when his large, motley collection of adopted family members reside. However, the War Office, charged Chance with looking into the smuggling situation and other possible problems within the Romney Marsh area. So Chance's plans to escape back to London are no null and void. Chance will have to face his past, smooth over all rough family matters, and help the family deal with a serious gang problem.

Julia Carruthers knows all about smugglers. She may be a vicar's daughter, but neither she, nor her father, condemned the people in their village for how they survived. They even helped a bit. When Julia finds herself alone in the world, she is relieved to be hired as Alice's nanny. She is also happy that they are leaving London for the coast. However, even before they reach Becket Hall, Julia has seen too much, heard too much, and she is just too smart for her own good. So even if Julia wanted to leave the marsh, Chance and his family would not, could not, allow her to. Besides, before Julia was fully hired by Chance, they were arguing, and the clashing of wills is just as passionate in the bedroom. Still, Julia is the outsider. She will have to earn the Becket family's trust.

Everything better get settled quickly. The family will soon deal with the Red Men Gang. It is a large, well-controlled, strongly led, and generously financed organization that now controls all the smuggling for miles of the coast. The only section left for the Red Men to seize is Romney Marsh.

***** OMG! Non-stop action from start to finish! It seems that author Kasey Michaels does nothing half way. Many could have made a dozen novels out of the characters and plots within this single book. Yet it looks as though this will only be a trilogy, with the next two books being released within the next two months. Of course, each book will be a stand alone story. You do not HAVE to read them all. But I pity anyone who misses them! I wonder, if enough fans write the publisher, perhaps the author can be persuaded to create even more novels about the Becket family. How easily I came to care for every single member of this odd family, even the voodoo priestess. (Yes, she is part of the family too.) A fabulous story that I hated to see end. *****

Author: Kate Lyon
Title - Hope's Captive

This tale begins in the year 1878. Zach McCallister believes his son, Luke, has been taken captive by the Northern Cheyenne. Zach's main objective is to locate and rescue Luke. To accomplish this Zach hires on as a guide to a lady believed to be the white wife of their chief.

Caroline Whitley owes her life to the Northern Cheyenne's leader, Little Wolf. She knows that they currently reside at the Darlington Agency (a reservation) and that they are dying by the hundreds from malaria and dysentery. To repay them, Caroline packs a wagon full with medicine and blankets for them and hires Zach to guide her to them.

Little Wolf, along with almost two hundred women and children and less than one hundred men to defend them, have left the reservation. They are determined to reach the Powder River country they love and call their home. The Army had called in a special unit of cavalry to keep the Northern Cheyenne on the reservation. The Army goes after the small band of Cheyenne.

As Zach and Caroline travel together, they slowly learn about each other. Zach not only meets and learns that the Northern Cheyenne are honorable, no matter how much he wishes to hate them, but he also finds himself attracted to the spitfire that hired him as guide. If only they could trust each other.

***** The author adds another young boy into this story, Yellow Swallow. This child is a half-breed. Just wait until you find out who his parents were! In fact, the author has added quite a few surprises for her readers within this exciting novel. Everything is historically correct and it is obvious that much research went into making this tale. In the back of the novel, within the "Author's Note", Kate Lyon gives a brief report of what happened to the Little Wolf and the others mentioned in this book. History, romance, and harsh reality come together to make an unforgettable adventure that will live on in the memories of all readers. Best I've read in a long while! *****

Author: Pamela Clare
Title - Surrender

After witnessing her uncles depravity and fearing she will be the next victim, Lady Anne Campbell tries to escape, but is caught. Falsely accused of theft and branded in a very intimate place with the mark of her "sin", she is exiled to Pre-Revolutionary War America as an indentured servant. Her enslavement ends when an Indian raid kills her cruel masters, allowing her to flee, one step ahead of Indians who would do unthinkable things to her. She runs straight into a band of Scots who have been forced into the Crown's service. Their leader, Iain MacKinnon, defies orders and rescues her, though the price he will have to pay is high. Annie creates a new identity for herself. She has come to care for Iain and his clansmen, and does not want her noble birth, her shamed named, or any other thing in her past held against her. Moreover, she recognizes the British commander as a man her uncle knows, though Lord William fails to realize who she is. He and Iain both want Annie, but her secret hangs like a shadow over everything until things blow up in her face.

**** This is a fantastic book. The action remains fast paced from start to finish, with a new twist coming along each time you begin to relax and think things will go smoothly for Annie now. Secondary characters add depth and interest. Though Lord William is ostensibly one of the bad guys, I would love to see him get his own book, for he has potential to be a real hero. ****

Author: Tina St. John
Title - Heart of the Dove
(Third in the Dragon Chalice trilogy)

Our story begins in June, 1275. Randwulf of Greycliff has part of the legendary Dragon Chalice. Rand plans to use it for revenge against the sorcerer who had his wife and child killed. The sorcerer's name is Silas de Montaine and he has shapeshifters to help aid in his dark cause. During a fight with one of these demons, Rand finds himself tossed off a ship. Rand's only thought at the time is to survive and hold onto the pouch containing the Chalice.

Rand washes ashore on the north English coast. He is found my Serena, a young lady with a magical gift called "the Knowing". With a simple touch, Serena sees directly into a person's heart. Serena and her mother, Calandra, live in isolation, by choice. They take no chances on someone learning of Serena's gift and using it for ill deeds or to have her labeled "witch" and killed. Yet Serena cannot ignore her own heart, which demands she help Rand.

***** Author Tina St. John writes magical dreams for us to enjoy. This one overflows in romance and magic. By the time you finish reading you will find yourself totally believing magic exists, and glad of the fact. I highly recommend this entire trilogy. *****

Author: Jackie Ivie
Title - Tender Is The Knight

Lady Elise, the young Dowager Duchess of Wynd, is known by all as "The Ice Goddess". She has survived living among the nobility by making all believe she has no heart or kindness. Nothing and no one can break through her calm, icy façade. No one recalls ever seeing her smile warmly, laugh gaily, or making friends. She needs no one. She depends only upon herself and her maid, Daisy. She refuses to ever marry again.

Elise also has secrets. She's extremely good at keeping them. However, she promised her late sister that she would see to the care of Rory. Elise is to let Rory know his Scottish kin. Problem is that the father, Evan, is dead too. The only thing to do is meet Evan's brother, Colin, and inform the man of his illegitimate nephew. But Elise does not know that Colin is "a big, bullheaded, boorish brute bred in the barbaric boundaries of a backwater country."

Colin, the new Duke of Gowan and Laird of MacGowan, is the very image of a fierce Scottish warrior. London's elite circle consider him a barbarian, though a rich one. Upon first sight of Elise their wills clash. Both are warriors among their own peers. Both have met their match!

***** Author Jackie Ivie succeeded in capturing my interest right at the beginning of the story and never letting me go. I understand now that Jackie Ivie enjoys pitting strong heroes and heroines against each other.

The heroine, Elise, is no fainting violet who needs to be constantly rescued. Nor does she do things so incredibly stupid that I just want to slap her. As for the hero, Colin ... well, let's just say the author wrote his character perfectly: from the haughty Laird to the confused and caring man.

An exceptional tale filled with honor, love, and witty banter that I am thrilled to highly endorse! OUTSTANDING! *****

Author: Victoria Alexander
Title - Let It Be Love

Story begins in December, 1853. Jonathon Effington, the Marquess of Helmsley and heir to the Duke of Roxborough, knows he will marry eventually. He simply has yet to meet the lady who can fill all the qualification he demands in a wife. He and his closest friends often discuss these highly set standards. In the meantime, Jonathon writes stories and tries to get published under an anonymous name. (He refuses to be published simply because of his status.)

At each Christmas Ball his family hosts, Jonathon selects a lady to share the evening with in bed. This year, the lady he chooses is not waiting for him in his rooms. Instead, he finds an unknown lady awaiting him. She claims to related to one of his close friends, Lord Norcroft "Oliver". She gives him an outrageous story about her father's will and having to marry in order to save her three sisters from poverty. Jonathon believes it all a hoax, set up by his friends. So when she proposes marriage, he accepts. Shortly afterward he finds out Fiona Fairchild told nothing but the absolute truth!

Jonathon does not want to marry yet, but he cannot simply retract his word of honor. After all, she IS related to Oliver and is actually living with him at the moment. Oliver, Fiona, and Jonathon decide to enter into a business proposition. Her nude art work and his story, published anonymously. IF the erotic and mythical story sells well, Fiona will not have to wed at all and Jonathon is off the hook. However, unknown to Fiona, Jonathon has no intension of having it published. He will simply claim it is selling well and give her "royalties". Now if only he can keep his hands off her enticing body while they work together.

***** Extremely well done! Fiona is no meek miss! I was totally taken with her character. Jonathon is nothing to sneeze at either. Noble until the end. A little too much so though. All-in-all, Victoria Alexander has an instant winner in this novel. Bring on the next man! *****

Author: Sophia Johnson
Title - Risk Everything

Set in Scotland, the year 1074. Rolf and Meghan had fancied each other as children, but Fate sent them upon different paths.

Meghan of Blackthorn grew up training with her brother, Connor. She is efficient in archery, blade throwing, some hand-to-hand combat, and training animals. Her people affectionately call her their "Warrior Woman - the Pride of Blackthorn". Meghan knew that there was some bad tidings between Rolf and Connor, but no one ever told her what happened to cause the feud.

Meghan sneaks away from her brother and her laird for some time alone hunting. She soon finds herself kidnapped by Rolf. But he is no longer the boy she once loved. In his place stood a cold warrior with hate burning within his eyes and a sneer upon his lips.

Rolf of Rimsdale is known as the "Lord of Vengeance". He has proof showing that Connor was the one who led the raid two years ago. During that raid Connor hilled Rolf's wife and new born son. It is only fitting that Rolf uses Meghan for his revenge. Where before Rolf once had dreams of Meghan being his bride, now he has dreams of using Meghan to correct Connor's wrongs ... even if it means crushing Meghan's pride and spirit to do it.

***** OMG! This has got to be one of the very best Historical Romances I have ever read. I cringe at the thought of anyone missing out on this book. Yes, it is THAT great! It has strong characters full of honor and dignity. Lots of action, adventure, romance, and betrayal. I even fell in love with a few of the secondary characters. I hope to see young Garith get his own story told one day. If you are looking for a story that will grab your attention on the first page and never let go, reach for this title. Highly recommended! *****

Author: Jolie Mathis
Title - The Sea King

Princess Isabel is the half-sister of King Ranulf. When she is thrown from her horse and into the river she expects to die. Instead she is rescued by a handsome man. As she awakens from her injuries, she learns that her savior is being whipped for harming her. Unable to make anyone listen to her and stop the abuse, she can only wait until everyone sleeps before helping the man escape.

Two years have passed. Kol Thorleksson wants revenge against King Ranulf for the injustices done to him on his previous stay. However, Ranulf escapes the siege, leaving his two sisters behind. When the two princesses are brought into his presence, Kol is stunned to learn that one of them is the lady he rescued two years previously. No matter that Isabel helped him escape, Kol plans to use her as bait to lure Ranulf out of hiding. Kol is also stunned to learn that Isabel has a two-year-old son, Godric, and that HE has been named as the father! Kol is positive Isabel told the lies to protect another man. After all, he never seduced her. But Isabel seems to honestly believe her lies.

Isabel had no idea who Kol was when she helped him two years ago. If she had known he was a mercenary out to kill her brother OR that he had gotten her pregnant while she had been unconscious, she would have killed him herself. Now her people believe her to be a traitor. No one would wed her since she has been ruined, and Ranulf has made her a virtual prisoner in her own home. But prisoner to an over protective brother is one thing. Prisoner to a merciless barbarian is quite another! The Dane even has the nerve to use their son as leverage to keep her in line. No matter how handsome and attractive this devil may be, Isabel refuses to betray her brother and king, Ranulf. With luck, Isabel will be able to kill Kol and save her brother the trouble.

***** In a word, "W-O-W!" You have GOT to read this book! All through the story I kept wondering who Godric's father really was. I had several theories, all of them wrong. Author Jolie Mathis shows readers her sly and wily side. At the same time, she keeps you totally enthralled with the lives of her characters. It is utterly impossible to resist Kol and Isabel. They are so real, so believable. It is as if the author breathed life into them. They seemed to jump off the page and into my heart. Honestly, if you read only a single book this entire year, let it be this one! *****

Author: Jillian Hunter
Title - The Wedding Night Of An English Rogue
(Bk 3 of the Boscastle trilogy)

Six years ago Julia Hepworth met Lord Heath Boscastle when she shot him. But that did not stop the two from being dangerously attracted to one another. They were almost caught in a very compromising position. So they quickly parted ways, but never forgot each other.

Now Julia is the fiancée to Sir Russell Althorne, Heath's commanding officer. Russell is chasing Armand Auclair, a French spy that one tortured Heath to near insanity before Russell rescued him. Russell calls in the debt of honor. Heath is to protect Julia while Russell is away, in case Armand sends someone to harm her. But Heath and Julia both know that they can't be in the same room without falling into each other's arms.

*** There are some very colorful secondary characters in this tale. Julia's aunt, Hermia, actually steals the show a few times! You will also get to see how Grayson and Jane (from a previous novel in the Boscastle series) is doing. As for Julia, she is a widow when she meets Heath again, no innocent miss fresh from the school room. This makes the romance between the two main characters explosive. All-in-all, this is not the best story in the Boscastle series, but well worth your time to pick up and read. ***

Author: Jocelyn Kelley
Title - One Knight Stands

Set in twelfth-century England. Queen Eleanor, of Aquitaine, established St. Jude's Abbey. There, young women train in the knightly arts, as well as the martial arts from the East. In times of trouble, when hope is slim, Queen Eleanor calls upon these women to protect the royal family and England.

Elspeth Braybrooke's weapon of choice is a staff. Queen Eleanor gives her the task of locating the "Llech-lafar". It is a legendary stone of Merlin's. Prophecy states that if the King steps upon the stone he will die. So Elspeth's quest is to find the stone and keep the prophecy from happening.

(Welsh Prince) Tarran ap Llyr and his men are escorting an elderly woman, Vala, to Tyddewi when they see Elspeth hanging from a castle's narrow window. Tarran is surprised to learn that she is trying to get in, rather than out. Soon Tarran and his men come to respect Elspeth's fighting abilities and bits of wisdom. Tarran convinces Elspeth to accompany them and keep Vala company. Since they are going her way, and it is safer to travel with a group, she agrees. Yet she must not let herself be diverted from her important task by Tarran's touch.

Tarran feels the same heat of attraction for Elspeth. Yet he, too, must not be diverted. Tarran is searching for the man who murdered his wife, Bradwr ap Glew. A man who was once Tarran's most trusted friend.

**** This is the second book involving the strong women of St. Jude's Abbey. (The first is titled A KNIGHT LIKE NO OTHER.) I found myself so engrossed in this story that I did not realize I was learning so much about English history! The tale grabbed my attention from the beginning, then kept up a steady pace of action, plot, and romance until the very end. You will never find yourself growing bored while reading this book. Recommended! ****

Author: Cheryl Bolen
Title - One Golden Ring

Lady Fiona Hollingsworth needs twenty-five thousand pounds quickly to free her brother, Randy, who has been abducted by Spanish bandits in The Peninsula. However, the family fortune is depleted. When she sees Mr. Nicholas "Nick" Birmingham, the richest stockbroker in England, she gets an idea. The very next day, Fiona goes to Nick's office and offers to marry him in exchange for his help. It is fairly well known that Nick's deceased father had always hoped his son would make an aristocratic match. Even though Nick does not believe himself worthy of Fiona, he agrees. It does not take the pair long to fall totally in love with each other.

Lord Edward Warwick, the Foreign Secretary, had grown up unofficially betrothed to Fiona. Yet last year he jilted Fiona to marry another, Countess Maggie. The Crown needs the help of Nick, his brother (William), and his money. Edward goes to Nick, hoping Nick's patriotism will force his agreement. It does, but only because William has experience in stealthy dealings. If not for his loyalty to his country, Nick would have refused. Nick could not help being jealous that Fiona had once loved Edward for so long.

Fiona has truly gotten over Edward. She is deeply in love with Nick. She is even growing to adore Nick's illegitimate, eight-year-old daughter, Emmie. But she is jealous that Nick keeps disappearing at night and fears he is going to another woman. In addition to this, it is no secret that Randy frowns upon Fiona marrying so beneath their station. Yet Randy may soon be forced to eat crow.

***** You say that you want dreamy romance? Then pick up a copy of "One Golden Ring". This has got to be the most PERFECT Regency Romance that I have read this year. I actually found myself envying Fiona. You will not find any stupid characters that you will want to strangle. These characters are intelligent and realistic. I have high hopes that a couple of the secondary characters will get their own stories told someday soon. *****

Author: Catherine Kean
Title - Dance of Desire

Set in England, 1192. After doing his duty in the crusade, Fane Linford is the High Sheriff of Warringham. He has been granted a bride of his own choosing, by King Richard himself. Fane has only to choose. However, Fane is kept busy. There is a rebellion forming against the crown. Rumor says Fane has a list of traitors that he will be turning over to the king.

Lady Rexana Villeaux learns that her brother's name is on that list and that he resides in the High Sheriff's dungeon! She is determined to see Rudd's named cleared. He would never turn traitor! Rexana dresses in the gauzy disguise of a desert courtesan and performs for the new High Sheriff, distracting him so her servant could steal the list.

The passion in her dance does indeed catch Fane's eye. Too much so. Fane is determined to claim Lady Rexana as his bride. To save her brother she will agree. Then he may take his time to win her trust, followed by her heart.

However, the area's unrest seems to be against the new couple. Not only that, but Lord Darwell's son, Garmonn, has always believed that he would be Lady Rexana's husband some day. And if he must kill the barbaric new High Sheriff, then so be it!

**** Author Catherine Kean writes with such passion that you can feel the hurt and joy that her characters' experience. I could easily imagine myself in the heroine's place and understand all her actions. No stupid little fits or tantrums for this brave heroine! Wonderful tale that I proudly recommend! ****

Author: Victoria Alexander
Title - When We Meet Again

Prince Alexei Pruzinsky of Avalonia is arrogance personified, dangerously charming, and a master at the art of seduction. He meets a mysterious young woman at a masked ball and spends one night in bed with her. His heart is touched in ways he has never felt before. They both know that marriage is impossible due to their stations, however, Alexei is upset that she refuses to take off her mask or tell him her name.

Miss Pamela Effington fled London six years ago rather than face scandal, thanks to George Fenton, son of Viscount Penwick, bragging to his buddies. She lives and travels with Aunt Millicent, who uses her widowhood and vast wealth to live as she pleases. It seems that Aunt Millicent is known world wide by all who matter. Pamela knows it is not safe to succumb to Alexei, yet she now has takes with her a glorious memory to cherish forever. Imagine Pamela's surprise when she finds Alexei and his staff occupying the London townhouse that she has recently inherited.

Aunt Millicent suggests that Pamela and Alexei pretend to be engaged. This would help ease Pamela back into Society's good graces. After all, no one could think badly of her if a PRINCE wishes to wed her. When she breaks the engagement later, every eligible man will beg for her hand in marriage. However, Alexei finds himself drawn to Pamela without knowing why and Pamela is desperately keeping her secrets.

***** The author includes a character named Valentina. She is Alexei's traitorous cousin. She has spent her life trying to kill Alexei, for Avalonia's own good of course. Valentina resides in the townhouse as well, claiming to have changed. As much as I really wanted to hate Valentina, I simply could not! The author did such a fantastic job on this character that she actually steals the show often. I dearly hope that Valentina gets her own story. The very idea is tantalizing!

Author Victoria Alexander has done an outstanding job in this tale. The heroine is someone that today's ladies can easily look up to. For best results, read this novel just before going to bed. Guaranteed to give you some memorable dreams. I tell that from experience. *****

Author: Annette Blair
Title - The Butterfly Garden

The story begins in Walnut Creek, Ohio, 1883. Amishwoman Sara Lapp, has all but been shunned for studying with "the English" local doctor, Dr. Jordan Marks, to become a midwife. After months of waiting, she is called to tend the birth of her best friend, Abby. However, upon arriving, Sara finds Abby has already died in childbirth. Abby's husband, "Mad" Adam Zuckerman, did not want Sara to help Abby deliver the baby. He wants Sara to take his four daughters, including the new born, home with her to raise.

Adam is a self-appointed outcast. He keeps everyone at a distance. He dares not love anyone, including Abby and his children. Adam's childhood had been far from happy. In fact, Adam never recalls smiling even once in his entire life. Adam fears that he has too much of his father in him and he cannot have his children around him without Abby to protect them should his father's blood prove true. It is best for him, and his children, that they be raised with someone who could give them the love they so desperately need. Someone like Sara.

When a drunken Adam falls from a barn loft Sara moves in to tend him, and she brings his girls. Then the Bishop and the Elders take a stand. They must marry or they, and the children, would be shunned. Sara knows there is something good in Adam. There has to be or Abby would never have fallen in love with him and married him. Sara has hope of drawing it out of him. She hopes to heal him. If not, she will love and raise the children as her own.

Unexepected help, and trouble, arrives when Lena (Adam's mother) and Emma (Adam's quiet sister) knock on the door. Adam has believes them to have died long ago, another lie from his father. Now Sara has help with the children and can do her midwife duties without worrying about the children. However, Adam, Lena, and Emma have much to resolve. Sara must teach everyone in her new home that there is a time for everything under God's heaven. Now is the time for healing. Yet as Sara teaches those she loves to bloom, they teach her much more in return.

***** Fans of the TV show "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman" will adore this novel! Sara came across to me as almost a mirror image of Dr. Quinn. She is strong when need be (stubborn), stands up for those in need (sharp tongued), and has so much love to give everyone. She also must deal with the Amish ordnung (rules) which makes everything near impossible. I found myself cheering her on to victory.

The author, Annette Blair, has a real writing talent. She inserts tiny things that the reader does not immediately notice, but makes the reader come to care for the characters as if they were kin. You may need tissues nearby at some points of the story. Another award winner that I cannot recommend highly enough. *****

Author: Annette Blair
Title - A Christmas Baby

Ashford "Ash" Edward Blackburne, Fifth Earl of Blackburne, wanted nothing more than to clear all his debts (and his late father's) and save Blackburne Chase, the family estate. To do so, he must bow to his grandfather's will. (Grandfather is alive in this story.) By Christmas, Ash must have married and his wife must be pregnant with his first child. Otherwise, Ash will lose everything. If Ash succeeds, his grandfather will go ahead and give a huge amount of cash up front, to pay all debts. The story begins in March, 1818. Ash has nine months. So disgusted with the situation, Ash cares not where he plants his seed. An innkeeper offers him a game of chance. If Ash wins, he gets to own the inn. If Ash loses, he must pay a cash price; however, as a consolation prize, Ash would get to wed his daughter. Either way, Ash wins.

Ash had no idea what he was getting himself into when he accepted the game. He lost the game and found himself marrying the innkeeper's daughter at gunpoint. She looked and smelled something AWFUL! Once he got her to the estate, cleaning her was a fight to the death - almost. He seceded at getting her clean, but when he tried to consummate the marriage with the she-cat, she shot him in the butt!

Larkin "Lark" Rose McAdams was furious at her situation! Yet, decided it could work. After all, she had been fond of the earl for several years already and if she did what he wanted he might agree to let her bring Micah, her deceased sister's son, to live with them. But Micah was not the only surprise for the new couple. By Christmas, their house will swell with people and the newly married couple will teach each other the true meaning of Love.

***** OMG! This story could not possibly have been any better! I could not stop myself from reading AT ALL. I read the entire thing in a single day. Yes, it is THAT good. This story is not one to be missed! BRAVA! *****

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