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Author: Hannah Howell
Title - Highland Fire (May 27, 2008)

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 / June 18, 2008)

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 (June 2008)

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 (May 2008)

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 (Aug. 1, 2008)

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 (April 1, 2008)

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: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Title - Confessions at Midnight
(#2 Midnight series)

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: 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
(May 1, 2008 / 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: Jacquie D'Alessandro
Title: Sleepless at Midnight

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: 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. ***