A Pup to Rescue Their Hearts - Alison Roberts (HMED #1153 - Feb 2021)

Series: Twins Reunited on the Children's Ward (Book 1)

Could an unlikely bond…

…be the answer to their dreams?

Nurse Stevie hates feeling out of her depth. But with a new job and a son who's struggling to settle in, she needs help. She just didn't expect it to come in the shape of her boss and one adorable dog! On paper, Josh is everything Stevie should avoid. But beneath his charming exterior is a heart also in need of rescuing…

Good book that started with a bang, as Dr. Josh Stanmore and nurse Stevie Hawksbury teamed up to save a little girl from choking. This is the first time Josh worked with Stevie, who is new to the hospital, and she impressed him with her quickness and intelligence. She also made an impression on him personally, but her reaction to his invitation for coffee shot him down hard.

Stevie is a single mother who just moved to Gloucester from London with her eleven-year-old son. Mattie is having difficulty adjusting to the move, which adds some stress to Stevie's days. When Mattie gets caught up with some troublemakers and ends up in police custody, it terrifies Stevie. She knows he needs a good male influence and signs him up with the local Big Brothers chapter. The last thing she expects is to have her boss as Mattie's mentor.

Josh is a dedicated doctor who is devoted to his care of the hospital's children. Abandoned at birth, adopted, then rejected when his adoptive parents gave birth to a child of their own, he was raised by an uninterested but dutiful grandmother. Because of this past, Josh has no interest in a family of his own. When he hears about the Big Brother program, he thinks about what a difference it might have made to him as a child and signs up. He never expected to end up with Stevie's son as his partner.

I loved the first meeting between Josh and Mattie. It is awkward at first until they witness a small dog get hit by a car. They quickly bond over the need to care for the pup, and Mattie's attitude changes dramatically. Over the following weeks, their rapport continues to grow, and a solid friendship results. Because of his past, Josh knows how important it is to be someone Mattie can trust, and he promises never to let him down.

At the same time, Josh and Stevie build a friendship of their own. They connect first over Josh's relationship with Mattie, but it then branches out on its own. I loved seeing their friendship grow as they share the good and bad parts of their work. Their quiet lunches in the hospital's rooftop vegetable garden become a vital part of their lives. Neither one expects the attraction that simmers below the surface of their friendship. When that attraction finally comes to a boil, they try to limit it, but their connection is too strong. Stevie quickly realizes that her heart is in danger of falling hard for a man who wants nothing to do with a family of his own. I ached for her because she can't help hoping that he will change his mind.

Josh has spent many years protecting himself from hurt by refusing to let himself develop feelings for anyone. Just as he begins to accept Stevie and Mattie's effect on him, he is blindsided by the appearance of a twin brother he knew nothing about. I ached for both Josh and Lachlan as they adjusted to their new reality. I loved watching Josh realize that if he could allow himself feelings for his brother, maybe he could expand that to include Stevie and Mattie. But a crisis with Lachlan causes Josh to break a promise to Mattie, and the resulting fallout leaves Stevie and Josh brokenhearted. I ached for Josh and the weight of guilt that he feels over letting Mattie down and for Stevie, whose dreams of the future were crushed. But when Mattie disappears, Stevie and Josh must work together to find him. I loved the lightning bolt of discovery that hit Josh as he realized that he already loves them both. His confession to Stevie and Mattie was heartfelt and emotional as he looked toward a future full of love.

One of the things I enjoyed about this book was the glimpse into pediatric healthcare workers' daily lives. From the choking case to the diabetic pre-adolescent to the boy with nerve damage, the medical moments gave a feeling of realism to the story. I look forward to Lachlan's story and finding out more about the battle he faces.

The Making of Baron Haversmere - Carol Arens (HH #1510 - June 2020)

A wolf in gentleman's clothing…

She might be the making of him

American Joe Steton is visiting his estate in England, bringing his straight-talking attitude and rugged manners with him, much to the ton's disapproval! Respectable widow Olivia Shaw offers to smooth his edges and make him an English gentleman, and Joe can't resist such an intriguing instructor. He has wealth and a title -- yet how can he give her his heart when his real life is an ocean away?

This was a fun book to read. I enjoy American man/woman enters English society books with their culture clashes. Joe brought his sister to England from their home in Wyoming to fulfill her and her mother's wish to find a titled husband. Joe is a somewhat rough around the edges rancher, but he'll do anything for his sister. His father is also Baron Havesmere and owns property in the Lake District. Because his father is too ill to travel this year, Joe promises to look in on the family property once Roselina is taken care of. Unfortunately, Joe's reluctance to blend in may put a crimp in Roselina's chances. This becomes a more significant issue when he assaults another man at the first ball they attend, even though he was protecting a lady's honor.

Olivia, whom we met in The Earl's American Heiress, is an attractive widow who drew the attention of a man who didn't know how to accept the word "no." He corners Olivia in the garden but is stopped in his tracks by the timely arrival of Joe. The resulting brouhaha (compounded by Joe's dog) leads the hostess to insist that Olivia take Joe under her wing and polish his rough edges. Olivia, whose late husband's infidelities made her distrustful of all men, is left with no choice. Her young son complicates matters with his insistence that Joe is "his cowboy."

I loved the development of the relationship between Olivia and Joe. They first met in the cemetery where Olivia's brother Oliver is buried. Her son, Victor, gets lost in the fog and is rescued by Joe and his dog. Victor is immediately smitten and believes that his late uncle sent Joe there just for him. Olivia is simply wary of the stranger who appeared out of the mist. Between that meeting and the later encounter at the ball, neither can get the other off their mind. I thoroughly enjoyed the "how to be a gentleman" lessons. Joe initially resists because he thinks he should be accepted for who he is but gives Roselina's pleas. There is the additional benefit of getting to know Olivia better. On her side, Olivia finds herself just as intrigued by Joe but is determined to protect her heart.

I loved Joe. He embodies the "cowboy code" of honor, honesty, and protection. He also has a big heart, vividly portrayed by his connection with Victor and his obvious love for his sister and mother. I watched that same love spill over onto Olivia as his feelings for her grew stronger. When tragedy strikes and returning to Wyoming is no longer an option, Joe must face a different future than the one he planned. I loved Olivia, too. Her bitterness about men is understandable given the misery caused by her late husband. She has a lot of love to give, as evidenced by her devotion to Victor, but trusting someone with her heart does not come easy. Knowing that Joe will leave makes her determined to resist her feelings, but she suspects it is a losing battle. There are some sweet scenes between them as their "lessons" progress and a couple of more where Joe's protectiveness comes to the surface. But their connection deepens when Joe turns to Olivia in an emotional late-night encounter.

I loved watching Joe throw himself into his new life. It was amusing to see him convince Olivia to join his family at their estate - to continue his lessons, of course. She had no idea of his plans to court her. He hits a bump in the road when an encounter in the village stirs up Olivia's fears. Joe quickly realizes that before he can win her heart, he must first earn Olivia's trust. I loved his understanding and patience as he overcame her fears. I ached for Olivia because she knew what she wanted but was afraid to reach for it. The ending made me cheer for her. In a fantastic scene in the barn, her love for Joe beats the last of her fears (and a ghost or two) into submission. The final pages were great, and I loved the part with the hats.

Young Victor was my favorite of the secondary characters. I loved his little boy enthusiasm and mischievousness. But the best part was his absolute certainty that his Uncle Oliver sent Joe to be Victor's very own cowboy. The connection between the two was immediate and sweet. I liked Joe's mother and sister, though I wasn't too sure about Francesca's unilateral decision about the ranch. Roselina was sweet but by no means the naïve debutante that so many others of her age were. Her life on the ranch gave her an unusual set of life skills and viewpoints. I enjoyed the secondary romance between Roselina and Lord Mansfield. They were well suited to each other, and Joe's reactions were fun to watch.

The "mischief" that caused Joe's return to Havesmere was an exciting twist in the story. I liked how it gave Joe a reason to get out among his people and something to focus on other than his grief. That mischief went too far at one point, and I was on the edge of my seat until the crisis ended. I loved the revelation of the culprit, especially Olivia's part in it.

An Everyday Hero - Laura Trentham (St. Martin's - Feb 2020)

Series: Heart of a Hero (Book 2)

At thirty, Greer Hadley never expected to be forced home to Madison, Tennessee with her life and dreams up in flames. A series of bad decisions and even worse luck lands her community service hours at a nonprofit organization that aids veterans and their families. Greer cannot fathom how she's supposed to help anyone deal with their trauma and loss when everything that brought her joy has failed her.

Then Greer meets fifteen-year-old Ally Martinez, a gifted girl who lost her father in action and now hides her pain behind a mask of sarcasm. But Greer sees something undeniable that she can't walk away from. To make matters more complicated, Greer finds herself spending more and more time with Emmett Lawson―a man with both physical and emotional scars of his own. When a situation with Ally becomes dire, the two of them must become a team to save her―and along the way they might just save themselves too.

Fantastic story of love, loss, and second chances. The characters are relatable, real people with believable problems and reactions. I loved that they all had good days and bad days, the occasional foot-in-mouth moment, and undeniably good hearts that were buried beneath layers of pain.

Greer left her small hometown to follow her dream of stardom in Nashville. Ten years later, she returned home, broke, and with her dreams shattered. Adding insult to injury, she found her boyfriend in bed with another woman. The book opens with Greer in front of a judge after combining too many drinks with her anger led her to inflict damage on the local bar. The judge sentences her to community service hours at an organization that uses music to help veterans and their families. Having put her music behind her, Greer is none too happy with the charge. That starts to change with her first assignment.

Ally is a fifteen-year-old girl hiding a lot of pain behind an armor of attitude. Her father died in Afghanistan, and her mother isn't handling her grief well, leaving Ally floundering. Greer is no soft-spoken therapist, and she and Ally butt heads before Greer finds a small crack in the armor. I loved watching Greer encourage Ally to express her feelings by writing song lyrics. Greer's honesty about the efforts ("they're going to suck at first, but they'll get better") goes a long way toward earning Ally's trust. Greer doesn't expect to care as much as she does, and that caring leads to some heartwrenching moments. Not only does Greer help Ally deal with her pain, she receives some unexpected healing in return.

Greer's other challenge is recently returned veteran Emmett. Emmett came home missing a leg and suffering from overwhelming survivor's guilt. He isolated himself from everyone, hiding out in a cabin on the family property, drinking too much, and wallowing in self-pity. Greer remembers Emmett from high school as the golden-boy football hero and her secret crush. Emmett tries to run Greer off with anger, and a shotgun blast in the air in their first encounter. She's made of sterner stuff, though, and faces him down. Though tempted to give up on him at first, Greer persists. It was fun to watch her call him on his attitude, and it wasn't long before he looked forward to her visits. I especially enjoyed watching her drag him back into the world of the living with some not-so-gentle boots to the rear.

I liked watching the relationship between Emmett and Greer develop. They begin as adversaries, as Emmett wants to be left alone, and Greer refuses to indulge him. Emmett resents the pity and ultra-caring he experiences from most people and finds Greer's sass and sarcasm refreshing. I loved his surprise when he realized that he was ready to come out of isolation. I also liked that it wasn't all one-sided. As Emmett got to know Greer, he found himself wanting to help her the way she helped him. There are some sweet scenes of him offering support as she faces her demons. And under it all is a simmering attraction that soon draws them even closer.

An unexpected twist reveals a connection between Ally and Emmett. I ached for Emmett and its effect on him and loved the straight talk from Greer that helped him through it. Ally also helped by being her practical, honest, and straightforward self. The scene between Ally and Emmett was amazing in its depth of emotion and its impact on both of them. I loved the solution they came up with to deal with the crisis. The epilogue was terrific. I loved witnessing the changes a year made in their lives.

Pursuit of the Truth - K.D. Richards (HI #1978 - Feb 2021)

Series: West Investigations (Book 1)

His skills can keep her safe

Her secrets could get them killed…

Security expert Ryan West's worst fears come to life when hotel CEO Nadia Shelton is pushed in front of a taxi and nearly killed. Someone will do whatever it takes to find the brother Nadia thought was dead, and the only way Ryan can protect her as they uncover the truth is to stay strictly professional. But the sparks igniting between them are nearly impossible to ignore.

Terrific combination of romance and suspense. Nadia took over as CEO of the family hotel chain when her brother died in a car accident almost a year earlier. Since then, she has had no time for a personal life, but that hasn't stopped her from noticing Ryan West, the head of the security company they use. Unbeknownst to her, Ryan is equally interested in her. But because of their professional relationship, neither one made any attempt to alter the situation. All of that is about to change.

On the way to work the morning of her quarterly meeting with Ryan, someone pushed Nadia off the curb and into traffic. She was lucky to get out of it with just some scrapes and bruises, carefully treated by a very concerned Ryan. That concern increases exponentially when Nadia barely escapes a kidnapping attempt, leading Ryan to make her safety his personal mission. This includes taking her to stay at his apartment, opening them up to all kinds of complications.

I liked the development of the relationship between Ryan and Nadia. Nadia knows she needs Ryan's protection, but she's not about to stay hidden away. She is determined to continue to run her business, and Ryan respects her intelligence and strength enough to work with her to make it happen. As the attacks on Nadia escalate, Ryan's insistence on remaining professional is undermined by the intensity of the attraction between them. I loved that their respect for each other's intelligence and capabilities, combined with excellent communication, made it possible for their relationship to grow and deepen. I liked that when he realized the depth of his feelings for Nadia, Ryan didn't freak out and try to push her away but accepted it. Ryan endured a fair amount of teasing from his brother and coworkers because of it. I also liked that Nadia had the confidence to go after what she wanted while maintaining her professionalism when needed. Protectiveness is a two-way street for her, and she doesn't hesitate to get involved when she thinks it's necessary. I especially enjoyed seeing her go to bat for Ryan against her smarmy ex-boyfriend. The ending was excellent, with the simple admission that it's never been just a working relationship between them. I hope to see more of them in the next book.

The suspense of the story sucked me in from the beginning. From the moment Nadia was pushed off the curb to the final confrontation with the bad guy, I could not put the book down. Nadia has a lot to deal with - a rash of unexplained incidents, an ex-boyfriend pushing her to sell her hotels to him, and the growing suspicion that her brother isn't dead. The escalation of attacks, from the minor ones of a dead rat and a keyed car to attempted kidnapping, attempted murder, and being taken as a hostage, kept Nadia, Ryan, and his team on their toes as they searched for answers. I loved the teamwork as they worked through the unexpected and unbelievable to arrive at the truth. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that took many moving parts to pull off. The ending was entirely satisfactory. 

#netgalley

Her Mountainside Haven - Jo McNally (HSE #2820 - Feb 2021)

Series: Gallant Lake Stories (Book 5)

A new neighbor was not part of her plan

Is there room for one more in her carefully guarded world?

Jillian Coleman has carefully constructed a haven for herself, complete with therapy dog Sophie to ease her anxiety and panic attacks. But when intriguing developer Matt Danzer shows up asking for access to a road that runs through her land, Jillie finds her stand-alone resolve starting to crumble. Up till now, a predictable life was all she could hope for. But Matt made her realize playing it safe was not all it was cracked up to be…

Good book. Jillie is a reclusive author of a popular series of horror novels. Due to her anxiety, panic attacks, and agoraphobia, she spends little time outside of her comfortable mountain home. She has a few close friends in town who know about her issues and help Jillie cope when she visits them. As a general rule, Privacy is her middle name, so she isn't happy when she learns that the abandoned ski resort next to her property has been sold.

Matt is the manager of his younger brother's ski career. While Bryce heals from a ski injury, Matt plans to renovate and flip the abandoned ski resort. He started his business as a way to make money and stay busy while Bryce trains. His plans hit a roadblock when the only access to the property runs through his reclusive neighbor's property.

The first meeting between Matt and Jillie got their relationship off to a rocky start. Matt went exploring his new property (still in his suit!) and ended up on the wrong side of the property line. He was treed by a very protective Sophie and threatened with bear spray by a very wary Jillie. There are some tense encounters between them as Matt makes his plea for access to the road until he receives some advice from her friends. I liked the meeting he set up and how he was willing to work out a compromise that suited them both.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Matt and Jillie. It begins slowly, with the exchange of texts regarding the road, during which Jillie becomes accustomed to the intrusions. A few encounters make Jillie realize that she feels safe with Matt, which hasn't happened for a very long time. I liked watching them get to know each other, especially as Jillie opens up about her mental health issues. I appreciated Matt's desire to understand. There is a beautiful scene when he takes Jillie on a date and has to handle one of her attacks. At the same time, Matt freaks out a bit at his growing feelings for her. They don't fit in with his future plans, but he can't imagine that future without her.

I liked seeing the changes in Jillie, also. Her issues with anxiety and panic attacks are still there, but she becomes more willing to step a little outside her comfort zone. She's honest with Matt about her fears and how they affect her life. When his need to travel runs up against her inability to leave home, harsh words erupt between them. I ached for them both as each one faced the possibility that love wasn't enough. I liked the self-examination that motivated them each to make changes. The ending was fantastic. Matt's actions showed that he finally understood her, and Jillie found the strength to take some chances. I'm looking forward to future books and seeing how their relationship progresses.

I haven't read the earlier books in the series, but this worked easily as a stand-alone. It did whet my appetite to go back and read the previous books, as I am intrigued by the hints dropped about the other couples' romances.

Crime Scene Cover-Up - Julie Miller (HI #1969 - Dec 2020)

Series: Taylor Clan: Firehouse 13 (Book 1)
            Precinct (Book 37)

Their passion was forged in flames.

Will they survive the next inferno?

Mark Taylor can put out a fire, but Amy Hall is a different kind of challenge. He's determined to keep her safe -- and although she's a target, she's just as certain that she doesn't need his protection. As they hunt down an arsonist, both Mark and Amy try to deny their red-hot desire. Will they trust each other enough to surrender…before a madman burns down their world?

Good book. I love it when a series has been around long enough for the second generation to grow up and have their own stories. In the Firehouse 13 duology, we have Mark and Matt Taylor's stories, who made their first appearance in Kansas City's Bravest. They grow from scared fosters to beloved sons who have followed in their parents' footsteps. This book is Mark's story.

Mark is the baby of the family and sometimes feels at a disadvantage because of it. One of the bright spots in his life is the one-on-one time spent with his grandfather, Sid. As the book opens, Mark and Sid are on their way home from a fishing trip when they come upon a car accident. Mark, a firefighter/EMT, jumps right in to help, with his grandfather close behind. But while Mark succeeds in saving the victims, his grandfather suffers a fatal heart attack, plunging Mark into a well of guilt. I ached for Mark, one of those men who feels responsible for everyone he comes into contact with. The depth of his guilt causes him to push everyone away, especially those closest to him. The only thing that helps is burying himself in his work.

Amy is an artist who works in metal. Her grandparents raised her, and she came home after her grandfather's death to take care of her grandmother. It also coincided with a traumatic breakup with an abusive boyfriend, making her believe that her problems contributed to her grandfather's death. Passionately protective of her grandmother, Amy worries about the rash of unexplained fires on their land. Things go from bad to worse when the fires escalate to murder.

I was sucked into the story as soon as Firehouse 13 responded to the latest fire on the Hall land. When Amy runs toward the fire instead of away, looking for her best friend, Mark is hot on her heels. He is with her when they find Jocelyn's body and immediately realizes that they are looking at a case of murder. I liked his compassion and support for Amy as she dealt with the tragedy. I did get a little frustrated with Amy, who tried very hard to push him away. Because of her past, she is wary around men and hides behind her independence. I liked that Mark didn't give up on her.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Amy and Mark. He respects her independence, but that doesn't stop his protectiveness toward her. He understands her need to know what happened. It takes a little while for Amy to acknowledge the connection between them, but she can't deny that it's there. As they grow closer, there are some sweet scenes between them. I especially enjoyed how they could make each other blush. They share one thing, and that is an acquaintance with a blending of guilt and grief. It's that understanding that makes it possible for Mark to open up about his grief for his grandfather and finally start to heal. Meanwhile, Mark overcomes Amy's wariness as she learns to trust again. I loved the ending as they admit their feelings.

The suspense of the story was great. It's evident from the start that the fires are suspicious, even before the first body turns up. Amy's encounter with the builder put him at the top of my suspect list when it came to the fires. He wasn't the only one, though, as the two handymen she had working on the house also gave me the creeps. I also wondered if Jocelyn's death was a crime of passion, thanks to her ex-boyfriend. There was a terrifying scene involving him and Amy that added to the tension. The intensity ramped up as the frequency of the attacks escalated. The final confrontation was a nail-biter. I liked how Amy kept her head, leaving a clue for Mark, and doing what she could to stay alive. It was a close thing, but they made it out. I also liked the resolution of the rest of the fires.

Ravish Me with Rubies - Jane Feather (Zebra - Feb 2021)

Series: London Jewels (Book 3)

From the spark of revenge...

Petra Rutherford is certain she isn't the first dreamy-eyed girl that devilishly handsome Baron Granville of Ashton has loved and left behind. But when her brother's political ambitions place her before him once more, she's determined to give Guy Granville his own taste of torment. What better way to best a scoundrel than by luring his interest--before bringing things to an abrupt, embarrassing end? The only flaw in her gem of a plan is her still powerful attraction to the dazzling nemesis...

To a love more precious than rubies...

Guy Granville is disarmed by Petra's bold pursuit of him, so much so that he forgets he never intended to fall in love--much less entertain thoughts of marriage. Now, if only the fiery Petra would stop sparring with him long enough to surrender to him completely--and allow him to convince her that his riches, his rubies, and his heart belong with her...

Good book. When Petra meets Guy Granville again, she remembers how he broke her fourteen-year-old heart and decides to give him a taste of his own medicine. She's ten years older now and confident that she can resist his well-known charm. The grown-up Petra intrigues Guy, and he quickly forgets his usual love them and leave them attitude.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Petra and Guy. They met when she was fourteen, and he was twenty-four and spent a great deal of time together. (Okay, yes, the age difference at that point is perhaps a little questionable.) Even then, Petra was different from other girls, and Guy enjoyed her company. Petra's schoolgirl heart fell hard for him, and she was devastated when he left without a word. Their first meeting ten years later was a bit awkward. Petra was quite cool to him, while Guy was thoroughly entranced. Petra comes up with a plan to get even by drawing him in and then dumping him the way he did to her. She didn't count on her old feelings coming back even stronger.

The sparks between Guy and Petra were intense, and not just the sparks of attraction. Both of them are strong-willed and clash frequently. Guy tends to be high-handed, taking control of situations without considering other's feelings. Petra, who is protective of her friends and family, has no trouble calling him out when he does so. She also has to work hard to keep him from running over her wishes when they are together. This sets up some interesting confrontations. It isn't long before Petra gives up her plans for revenge and enjoys the time she spends with him. Guy also finds himself more entranced by her than he expected. With the time they spend together, the attraction between them soon burns out of control. I loved Guy's "aha" moment when he realized that he wants it all with Petra and impulsively proposes.

However, neither Petra nor Guy quite realizes what marriage will require from them. Clashes begin immediately over wedding plans. Both Petra and Guy had good reasons for their wishes, and it took some effort for them to find a compromise. Fortunately, they do, and the wedding and honeymoon proceed on schedule and with rave reviews from both of them. But Petra and Guy stand on opposite sides of one significant issue - women's suffrage. Guy had no idea how deeply involved in the movement Petra is at first, and it comes as quite a shock when he finds out. I ached for Petra as she realized that, unlike her friends Diana and Fenella's husbands, hers does not support her views and work. I wanted to shake Guy over his attitude toward her thoughts. This sets up a devastating confrontation when her involvement in a suffrage event clashes with his position in the House of Lords. While I empathized somewhat with Guy, he could have handled things much better. Petra, too, was not entirely blameless. I liked the ending, as Guy discovered he could change given the right motivation, and Petra also learned the art of compromise.

I liked seeing Diana and Fenella from the first two books and getting a glimpse of their happy marriages. I love the close friendship between the three women and how they support each other. I think the story would have benefitted from an epilogue, maybe a few years on, to see how all three couples have turned out.

Tempt Me with Diamonds - Jane Feather (Zebra - Jan 2019)

Series: London Jewels (Book 1)

A FINE ROMANCE…

Diana Sommerville seems to have it all -- beauty, brains, and vast wealth, thanks to her family's ownership of a diamond mine abroad. But when her beloved brother dies in battle and leaves a lion's share of his estate to his best friend, Diana finds herself in a situation that seems scripted for the stage: Sharing her family home with the man she used to love -- and now loathes. Worse, her unfaithful former fiancé has already moved in...

OR AN EXCELLENT FAKE?

Rupert Lacey didn't expect Diana to take the news without a fight. Still, he didn't expect her to bring the battle directly to their newly shared doorstep -- complete with a full set of trunks, and a full set of orders to the staff. Yet there she is, bold, regal ... magnificent as ever. Now they would face a formidable challenge: to ignore each other -- and the unanswered questions that stood between them. The only sure thing is their still blazing desire. But with a woman like Diana, it will take nothing less than a momentous misunderstanding, a missing prized mare, and a shocking revelation to restore a love that hasn't lost its shine...

Good book. Diana is dismayed and angry when she returns to England after her father and brother's deaths to find that her ex-fiance has moved into her family home. It's even worse when she learns that her brother left his share of their inheritance to Rupert and not her. To cap it all off, he refuses to leave occupancy to her and insists on sharing the house with her.

Rupert knew Diana wouldn't take kindly to the news, but he didn't expect such an extreme reaction. He's still angry over how she broke their engagement and dealing with his own grief over the loss of his best friend.

Boy, did the sparks ever fly between these two. When Jem and Rupert left England for South Africa to fight in the Boer War, Rupert and Diana were engaged. At the same time, she left England to stay with her father in South Africa and be near Rupert and Jem. But when she arrived, Diana confronted Rupert over a rumor she heard regarding a mistress and a child. She wasn't angry or accusing; she simply wanted to know the truth. However, Rupert never answered the question; he just turned and walked away. That left Diana feeling that she had no choice but to break the engagement. Fast forward two years and Rupert and Diana are thrown together.

I liked both Rupert and Diana, but I also had problems with them. Rupert is a gentleman and an officer in the Horse Guards. However, due to his upbringing, he has some serious trust issues. He does not lie, and when someone questions him, he takes it badly, believing that person doesn't trust him. His unwillingness to answer a simple question made him appear guilty, so I couldn't fault Diana for her reaction. Diana is a practical woman and one who doesn't like to be left in the dark. She has no problem questioning things that happen around her. But when there is something that she doesn't like, she can be petty and childish, deliberately provoking Rupert.

The development of the relationship between Rupert and Diana was a fiery one. Before the broken engagement, their love seemed deep and unshakeable, and their attraction undeniable. Not much is said about the time they were apart, but it quickly becomes clear that they hadn't forgotten each other. It was interesting to see that Rupert not only expected Diana's reaction, he looked forward to it, though he is surprised at how furious she is. He refuses all of her proposals that would cede the house to her, instead proposing that they share it. To avoid scandal, using their engagement before they left England, Rupert insists that they pretend they are married. Diana's anger and hurt over what she sees as her brother's betrayal are understandable, but she goes overboard in her reaction. Instead of working with Rupert to find a compromise, Diana takes petty to a new level. Not only does she divide the house into his and her rooms, but she also refuses to allow the servants to help him.

A large part of the book is full of Rupert and Diana pushing each other's buttons, seeming to revel in ticking each other off. I honestly wanted to shake them both and tell them to grow up. Complicating matters was the attraction that still burned between them. It appeared that every time they got into an argument, they ended up in bed. They finally got to the point where they accepted the attraction, but Diana kept the distance between them. When it looks like maybe they will finally get to the bottom of what came between them, yet another rumor rears its head. Diana desperately wants to know the details of her brother's death, Rupert isn't talking, and Diana gets disquieting comments from other people. When Diana asks Rupert for his side, he once again walks away rather than answer her. I liked that this time Diana doesn't take his departure lying down but determinedly pursues him. Tracking him down gives her a new perspective and appreciation of his past, making it easier to break through his walls. I loved seeing Rupert finally open up and tell Diana everything. I ached for him and the guilt he felt and loved Diana's honest and practical reaction to what he told her. With that demon off their backs, Rupert and Diana are finally able to look to their future. I loved the ending and the surprise that Rupert had for her.

Bayou Vows - Geri Krotow (Kensington - Jan 2019)

Series: Bayou Bachelors (Book 3)

Jeb DeVillier has a lot of explaining to do. True, he did steal millions from the sailboat business he ran with his partner, Brandon, and disappear to South America. But Jeb has a good reason -- Brandon's sister, Jena Boudreaux. A decade ago, she broke his heart when she chose career over their relationship. Still, when he learns she's being held for ransom by drug dealers, he doesn't hesitate. He'll save her life, no matter what the danger.

When Jena called Jeb out of the blue, it was to ask him to give her last words to her family. She knew the risks when she took one final mission for the CIA. Suddenly, Jeb's riding to the rescue like her own personal Cajun knight. Yet now that they're both safe in New Orleans, he refuses to give her a second chance. That's not good enough for Jena. Because when you find someone crazy enough to risk everything for you, the only sane thing to do is to hang on tight . . .

Good conclusion to the series. Like the previous book, Bare Devotion, portions of this story overlap the earlier books, this time from Jeb and Jena's perspective. A big part of the first book was Brandon dealing with Jeb stealing fifteen million dollars from their boat-building business and disappearing. In this book, we learn that Jeb took that money to save Brandon's sister's life. Jena was taken by a drug cartel and would have died without the ransom that Jeb provided. But there was more to the story.

Jeb grew up with the Boudreaux kids and was especially close to Jena. As they grew up, their childhood friendship grew into a college romance. After graduation, Jena broke it off when she decided to work for the CIA, but the attraction between them never died. A few years later, they reconnected and entered a "friends with benefits" relationship. That relationship took a hit when Jena's capture showed Jeb that he hadn't really known her after all. Though he did get Jena back to New Orleans, Jeb feels that his relationships with Brandon and Jena will never be the same and decides to move on. However, that turns out to be more difficult than he imagined.

Getting Jeb and Jena to a future together was a complicated process. Both of them have kept secrets from each other, and regaining trust isn't going to be easy. At the top of the list is that their feelings for each other have deepened, but neither dares to admit it. Jeb wants more from Jena but no longer feels that he deserves it. He also has some trouble reconciling her career with the CIA and how he has always viewed her. Jeb is a man who, thanks to his past, is compelled to take care of others. His ego takes a hit when he realizes that Jena is well able to take care of herself. Jena is very independent, and admitting that she sometimes needs Jeb is tough for her.

The struggle between Jeb and Jena felt very realistic. They had to learn to talk honestly with each other about their needs and dreams for the future. I ached for Jeb because he thought his actions made it impossible to stay in New Orleans, despite assurances otherwise. Jena faced her own problems of adjusting to civilian life and overcoming her need to keep part of her separated from everyone. Complicating matters was the intense attraction that made it challenging to keep their hands off each other. Some good scenes showed Jena and Jeb sharing things they hadn't shared with anyone before, and some sweet scenes that reminded them of the good parts of their past together. It all looks very promising until Jena's past comes calling and throws everything into turmoil. There are some tense moments for Jena that also prove to be eye-opening. The ending was wonderful. I loved the scene at their tree as they finally opened up fully to each other. The epilogue was a perfect wrap-up for all three couples.

Bare Devotion - Geri Krotow (Lyrical Press - Sept 2018)

Series: Bayou Bachelors (Book 2)

Returning to her flooded New Orleans home to face Henry Boudreaux, the man she jilted at the altar, is the hardest thing attorney Sonja Bosco has ever done--even before she discovers she's pregnant. Sonja backed out of the marriage for Henry's sake. He wants to be part of his father's law firm, and his parents will never approve of an interracial marriage. Better to bruise his heart than ruin his life.

Henry can't forgive Sonja, and doubts that he can trust her again. But learning that they're going to be parents means there's no avoiding each other. Springtime on the bayou is already steamy enough...now they're living in the same small space while their damaged house is repaired. And with each passing day they're getting a little more honest. A lot more real. And realizing that nothing--not even New Orleans at Mardi Gras--glows brighter than the desire they're trying to deny...

Good book. This story begins shortly before the end of the first book, Fully Dressed, so there is a little overlapping activity. At the beginning of the first book, Sonja and Henry are just hours away from their wedding. On the day of the wedding, Sonja runs, leaving Henry at the altar. This book takes on the aftermath of that action and the changes in their relationship.

As this book starts, Sonja returns to New Orleans three weeks after her non-wedding and comes face-to-face with Henry. He is understandably angry. He had no idea that Sonja had reservations about their marriage, so her desertion was a total surprise. They exchange some pretty harsh words. Sonja blames herself for the disaster, but she also holds resentment toward Henry for keeping secrets from her. Sonja doesn't have much room to complain, though, because she kept some things from him, too - not the least of which is that she is pregnant.

It is clear from their first meeting that the sparks between Sonja and Henry have not died, and neither one is happy about it. Each would like to cut ties altogether, but Fate decrees otherwise. First, they must work together to fix their flooded home before they can sell it. Because both of them invested everything in the house and the wedding, they are stuck sharing the tiny guest house on the property. Second, Sonja's pregnancy means they must find a way to co-parent their baby. This means they must face their past.

I enjoyed seeing Henry and Sonja work their way back to each other. Both had to take serious looks at their past relationship and admit to their mistakes. The biggest thing was facing the fact that their former relationship was more superficial than either wanted to admit. Everything looked great on the surface, but there were significant underlying issues that they never talked about. One of those issues was that of race. Sonja is black, and Henry is white. It makes no difference to their love for each other, but Henry's parents are not happy and make it obvious. Unfortunately, most of their attitude falls on Sonja when Henry isn't around to witness it. The last straw is their threat to disown Henry if he marries her, and she refuses to ruin his life. Sonja also worries that Henry might have similar attitudes (well-buried) thanks to his upbringing. On his side, Henry neglected to tell Sonja about his ex-fiancée's stalker tendencies, leaving Sonja blindsided when Dierdre confronted her right before the wedding. Both are left with some serious trust issues.

There were a lot of angry words and accusations thrown at each other at the beginning. Dealing with that anger forced Henry and Sonja to talk about things they had avoided before. It was a slow process, but they finally started to reach below the surface of their previous relationship and communicate. It isn't easy, and there is the occasional regression, but they do make progress. Complicating matters is the attraction that still has a tight grip on them. Giving into it adds to the pain and confusion. It takes a while for them to realize that the love they share is still there. There are some sweet scenes of them together as that love grows and matures to the point where they can admit their feelings to each other. I liked the ending as they moved toward a future together.

Fully Dressed - Geri Krotow (Kensington - Mar 2018)

Series: Bayou Bachelors (Book 1)

New York City stylist Poppy Kaminsky knows that image is everything, which is why she's so devastated when hers is trashed on social media--after a very public meltdown over her cheating fiance. Her best friend's New Orleans society wedding gives her the chance hide out and lick her wounds...

Brandon Boudreaux is in no mood to party. His multi-million dollar sailboat business is in danger of sinking thanks to his partner's sudden disappearance--with the company's funds. And when he rolls up to his estranged brother's pre-wedding bash in an airboat, a cold-as-ice friend of the bride looks at him like he's so much swamp trash.

The last person Poppy should get involved with is the bad boy of the Boudreaux family. But they have more in common than she could ever imagine-and the steamy, sultry New Orleans nights are about to show her how fun letting loose can be...

Good book about two people who experience significant crises in their lives, and with each other's help, find their way to new beginnings. The story opens as Poppy, a New York City stylist to the rich and famous, arrives in New Orleans for her best friend's wedding. The timing is perfect, as Poppy desperately needs to get away. After finding her fiancé in bed with her intern, Poppy had a very public meltdown, which ended up splashed all over social media. Her image is destroyed, and she needs to find a way to fix it. Hiding out in New Orleans for a couple of weeks will give Poppy the time to do so. However, she isn't really in much of a party mood, and the arrival of the groom's bad boy brother is one more irritation.

Brandon is the black sheep of his family. While his brother followed their father into the law, Brandon's interest lay in boat-building. After a massive blow-up with his father, Brandon and his best friend Jeb set out on their own. Brandon hasn't spoken to his parents in ten years, though he has remained in touch with his brother, Henry. He's not about to miss Henry's wedding and the hoopla before it, though he isn't in much of a mood to party. His partner Jeb has disappeared, taking all of the business's money with him. He doesn't want to believe it, but the facts are hard to deny. The last thing he wants to deal with is a stuck-up Yankee.

I liked the first meeting between Poppy and Brandon. He pulls up to his brother's dock in an obnoxiously loud airboat, and Poppy looks at him like he's pond scum. But there is no doubt about the sparks that fly between them. Brandon is a charming flirt, and he immediately lays it on thick with Poppy, who wants nothing to do with him or any other man right now. There's also a pretty big gentlemanly streak in him, and Brandon comes to her rescue when she has a panic attack. I thought she could have been a little more appreciative, but she was also fighting her attraction.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Brandon and Poppy. A hurricane-like storm brings them together as Brandon rescues her from a dangerous flooding situation. As they ride out the storm together, the attraction between them continues to grow. Both try to resist, as neither wants a relationship, thanks to the current upheaval in their lives. Instead, they form an unexpected friendship, discovering that they have more in common than they knew. I loved how their first impressions of each other changed as they got to know each other. I ached for Poppy, whose run of bad luck left her with some insecurities. Brandon is more sensitive than I expected at first, and it isn't long before he finds ways to show Poppy what an amazing woman she is. Brandon also faces a situation he doesn't feel prepared for, and this time it's Poppy who comes to the rescue. I had a grand time watching her prep Brandon for his big meeting.

All the while, the attraction between Brandon and Poppy continued to simmer until they couldn't resist any longer. Each one is clear that they don't want anything serious and decide to have fun together. But as Poppy builds Brandon up for his meeting, he discovers that he wants more than just her professional attention and a short-term affair. This freaks him out a bit, especially since he doesn't feel that he's in a place to do anything about it. Meanwhile, Poppy makes significant progress reinventing herself and her brand but doesn't know how to tell Brandon that she plans to relocate to New Orleans. After a blow-up where Brandon says some bone-headed things, both of them have some soul-searching to do before either is ready to look at a future together. I liked the ending. Both Brandon and Poppy show some real growth, and I loved Brandon's big moment.

The drama regarding the wedding between Henry and Poppy's friend, Sonja, added some extra tension to the story. I liked both Henry and Sonja, who genuinely appear to love each other. However, outside forces create an untenable situation, and Sonja doesn't handle it well. Their issues are left hanging, so I can't wait to read the next book in the series to see how that turns out. Brandon's troubles with his partner, Jeb, are also glossed over at the end, leaving that open for the third book.

I enjoyed the detailed descriptions of New Orleans, from the bayous to the little details about the city itself. I especially liked the scene set at Café du Monde, as it brought back fond memories of my visit there. I also liked the mentions of post-Katrina issues, from the loss of jobs to the way people helped each other. I liked Poppy's reminisces of her time volunteering and the impact it had on her life.

The Yarn Spinner - Deborah Smith (Belle Books - Jan 2014)

Series: Crossroads Cafe: The MacBrides (Book 2.5)

She's destined to love Gus MacBride--if she survives her first year in the Crossroads Cove.

A thread of hope is all she needs.

Damaged, confused, alone. Cathy Deen Mitternich recognizes her old self in the fragile survivor huddled in the sheep barn's storage room at Rainbow Goddess Farm. Former art teacher Lucy Parmenter may be beyond even the tough-love magic of the farm, a live-in counseling center for abused women. Afraid to set a foot outside, drugged on medication, and filled with despair, Lucy needs the big biscuit magic of the Crossroad Café's Delta Whittlespoon. Together, Cathy and Delta search for a lifeline that represents Lucy's best hope of holding on.

Their search ends in Lucy's new home at the barn. When Lucy discovers the magic there, neither she nor Cathy will ever be the same.

A short, sweet story that, for me, served as an introduction to Smith's Crossroads Café series. I was immediately intrigued by the working farm that served as a place of healing for abused women. When a new woman arrives at the farm, Cathy immediately recognizes Lucy's shell-shocked attitude. Even though I haven't read her story, enough of Cathy's background was given to bring me up to speed. I loved her immediate empathy with the survivor and her determination to bring Lucy back to the world of the living.

Cathy knows that the best way to do that is through the power of love, and nothing says love like the comfort food prepared by the Café's Delta Whittlespoon. Specifically, the almost magical biscuits and gravy. My heart broke at first sight of Lucy, wearing layers of clothes and quilts, so traumatized that she couldn't even eat. Like helping an injured wild animal, Cathy and Delta moved slowly and softly so they wouldn't frighten her. It was heartwarming to see their success and Lucy's improvement over the next few days.

What they need next is something that will give Lucy a reason to go on. There is a paranormal touch in the story as Lucy takes refuge in the wool barn at the farm. The wool brings her comfort and makes her feel safe. She even claims that it talks to her. When Cathy and Delta bring her a spinning wheel and the instructions on how to use it, there is a spark of interest. But what gets Cathy's attention is what Lucy says the wool told her. I loved the ending and seeing Lucy's prediction come true, as well as the progress she has made.

This story appears to be the prequel for the next book in the series about Lucy and the man that Delta says is her mate.

Ultimate Showdown - Addison Fox (HRS #2115 - Dec 2020)

Series: Colton 911: Grand Rapids (Book 6)
            Coltons (Book 124)

Hunting a lethal criminal

Brings danger…and passion

When Lieutenant Tripp McKellar rescues crime scene investigator Sadie Colton from a kidnapper, she is eternally grateful. Though she's always been drawn to him, Sadie wants to keep their relationship strictly professional. As she works with Tripp to bring down the criminal who targeted her, she discovers that her attraction is mutual. But can true love bloom in the shadow of a deadly threat?

Good conclusion to the series. The action started from the first page as we catch up with Sadie, kidnapped by her ex-fiancé, the criminal mind behind the RevitaYou scheme. As a member of both the Grand Rapids PD and her family's private investigation firm, Sadie has been a part of the investigation team from the beginning. In an earlier book, Sadie discovered that the man she thought she loved used her to keep tabs on the investigation. Now he's trying to force her cooperation.

Tripp is a lieutenant with the GRPD and feels responsible for Sadie's kidnapping. Determined to find her, Tripp spends long hours going over everything he knows about Tate Greer and the crimes they have already linked him to. A hunch sends him off to investigate a likely prospect for a hideout, with backup close behind.

I loved how the story began with an intensity that sucked me right in. Sadie may be CSI now, but she was a street cop first. Disgusted with herself for falling for Tate in the first place, Sadie spends her time in captivity going over everything she remembers about her time with him. I loved following her thoughts as Sadie figured out where she was and contemplated an escape plan. I was on the edge of my seat when she took advantage of an opening and made her move, even though she knew she was on her own. I loved how Tripp arrived just in time.

Sadie and Tripp have been drawn to each other for a long time, though each tried to resist it. For Sadie, Tripp is her boss. The matter of her being engaged to another man for a while made her bury the attraction. For Tripp, there is the whole boss/employee problem. But deeper down, Tripp won't allow himself to care for another woman. He lost his fiancée and unborn child when a criminal out for revenge murdered them. He won't put another woman, or his heart, at risk again. But in the aftermath of the kidnapping and rescue, those buried sparks work their way to the surface.

I liked the development of the relationship between Tripp and Sadie. As Tate's attempts on Sadie's life escalate, Tripp takes keeping her safe personally. Together 24/7, they try to keep their interactions professional, but it is a losing battle. I liked watching them get to know each other. Tripp is a good man, respectful of Sadie's abilities, but also profoundly protective. He sees how her relationship with Tate impacted her self-worth and confidence and can't help trying to show her how he sees her. I ached for Sadie and seeing her try to fight her way back from Tate's actions. She and Tripp grew closer as they worked together, and the sparks between them continued to build. Tripp keeps himself under tight control, leaving Sadie to make the first move. And though their connection continues to grow, Sadie can tell that Tripp is holding back. I felt her frustration and hurt at the distance as she realizes the depth of her feelings, and loved that she stood up for herself and her needs. I liked seeing Tripp reach that moment when he realized that he allowed his past to dictate his future. The ending was great as he finally let go and opened himself to the feelings he couldn't deny. The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up.

I loved the suspense of this final book in the series. After all of the work done in the previous books to bring the RevitaYou case to an end, it is down to finding Tate Greer and bringing him to justice. Tate is equally determined to escape and to have his revenge on Sadie. The escalation of his attempts, from kidnapping to fire to baiting a trap, kept me reading late into the night. I felt the frustration of the GRPD and Coltons as Tate slipped through their hands time and again. By the time the final confrontation came, I was glued to the pages, waiting to see how it would turn out. I loved Sadie's part as her determination to save her sister put her in the middle of a desperate situation. An unexpected twist brought it to a satisfying end. The follow-on capture of the last remaining player was beautifully done.

Scandal in the VIP Suite - Nadine Gonzalez (HD #278 - Jan 2021)

Series: Miami Famous (Book 1)

Two strangers. One bed.

And a kiss as scorching as the Miami heat!

When Nina Taylor peeks into the luxury hotel suite that should have been hers, she's caught by the room's occupant, Julian Knight. The Hollywood bad boy quickly offers a compromise: why not share? Soon, the paparazzi is jumping to scandalous conclusions -- and Julian and Nina share an incredible kiss. Good thing they're only booked for a week…because, boy, is she in trouble!

Good book. I enjoyed reading a Desire line book with all of the expected sparks and a hero who starts as a decent human being rather than a jerk who needs to learn a lesson. Julian is a Hollywood action film star whose star is on the way down thanks to the "toxic masculinity" of his films and his reputation as a bad boy. His self-confidence has taken a hit, and he is in Miami to lay low and consider his next steps. The last thing he expects to find is a woman who could derail all of his plans.

Nina is the daughter of a Broadway actress. She honors her mother's last wish by staying in the hotel's premier suite and hopes that staying there will help break her writer's block. Nina is a writer and wrote a memoir about life with her mother. Her agent wants her to do another book, but Nina hasn't come up with anything so far. However, when Nina arrives at the hotel, she finds that the room has been given to a more important guest.

I loved the first meeting between Julian and Nina. Because of the last-minute change, the bellhop takes Nina to her original room instead of the new one. Nina can't resist taking a few minutes to explore the space she should have had and expects to be gone before the new occupant arrives. Though he initially suspects Nina of being an intrusive fan, his reaction does a complete turnaround when he finds out the circumstances. When Julian finds out that Nina will have to go to another hotel, he offers to share the suite with her.

Sparks fly between Julian and Nina from the beginning. Nina is wary. With her background, she has no interest in getting involved with an actor. I liked that Julian respects her decision, and they begin by becoming friends. I loved watching them get to know each other. Nina had no idea that he was a movie star - she isn't a fan of most Hollywood productions. I loved the scene where he catches her watching one of his movies and confesses that he is listening to her book. It isn't long before Julian is comfortable enough with Nina to share his other reason for being in Miami. He's written a script for a movie he wants to produce and gives it to her to read. Though her reaction isn't quite what he expects, I loved that he listened to what she had to say and recognized its worth.

I enjoyed seeing their relationship develop from friends to lovers to more. Though initially they expected a short fling, once Nina began working with Julian on his script, what they had deepened. I liked their obvious respect for each other's abilities, and seeing them work so well together was wonderful. It is clear that they are in love, though neither is ready to take that final step. It looks promising until an excerpt from Nina's very private diary turns up in a tabloid. Julian blames Nina and says some very harsh and hurtful things. I ached for Nina, who expected better of him, and her reaction was undoubtedly justified. Of course, by the time he cooled down and realized what he'd done, it was too late. Though it took several months, I thought the time apart was good for them as both had some baggage to deal with. The ending was terrific. The scene at the premier was sweet and romantic. I loved his heartfelt speech and its effect on Nina, especially her bit of pushback at the end. The epilogue was fantastic.

I loved the lush descriptions of the hotel. I frequently felt as if I was right there with Julian and Nina. I also liked the behind-the-scenes look at the movie-making process. I could feel Julian's anxiousness as he put his dream out there and cheered as it became a reality.

The Duke and I - Julia Quinn (Avon - Jan 2000)

Series: Bridgertons (Book 1)

HAS THE DEVASTATING DUKE FINALLY FOUND A BRIDE?

All the society papers say so. But, only the Duke of Hastings and "his "intended" know the truth. For the irresistible Simon Basset has hatched a plan to keep himself free from all those marriage-minded society mothers by pretending an attachment to the lovely Daphne Bridgerton. After all, it isn't as if the brooding rogue has any real plans to marry--though there is something about the alluring miss that sets Simon's heart beating a bit faster. And as for Daphne, surely the clever debutante will attract some very worthy suitors now that it seems a duke has declared her desirable...

But as Daphne waltzes across ballroom after ballroom with Simon, she soon forgets that their courtship is a complete sham. Maybe it's the mesmerizing look in his intense blue eyes, or the way she feels in his strong arms, but somehow Daphne is falling for the dashing duke ... for real! And now she has to do the impossible and keep herself from losing her heart and soul completely to the handsome hell-raiser who has sworn off marriage forever!

I read this book eighteen years ago but wanted to reread it before watching the Netflix series. I'm so glad I did because knowing Simon's past makes it easier to understand why he is the way he is. I've only seen the first episode so far and haven't seen anything about it other than the mention of his estrangement from his father.

I liked Simon. He has a well-earned reputation as a rake, yet the reason behind it is heartbreaking. His mother died when he was born, and his father was only interested in having the perfect heir to the Basset name. His father ignored Simon until he was two and then cruelly rejected him as an "idiot" because of a speech problem. I ached for Simon as he worked to overcome his problem and was continually rejected. I loved his determination and strength of will as the years went by. The Eton scene was immensely satisfying. When his father's rejection continued, Simon decided to live down to his father's expectations and shortly after left the country. He didn't return until after his father's death.

Simon states that he will never marry and have children. His father's obsession with the perfect heir and carrying on the family line made Simon determined that the Basset dynasty will end with him. Unfortunately for him, as a very eligible bachelor, every matchmaking mother in the ton wants him for their daughters. I loved his conversation with Anthony Bridgerton at the beginning of the book and Simon's belief that he could avoid them.

I also liked Daphne. She is young and naïve but also reasonably practical. As the fourth Bridgerton offspring and oldest daughter, she is the first one to make her debut. With the example of her parents' loving marriage, Daphne wants the same for herself. Thus far, her dreams have not been realized, and she starts to lose hope. It doesn't help that she feels most men don't even see her or only see her as a friend. She has a terrific relationship with her family, whom she loves dearly. I especially enjoyed watching her with her three older brothers, who rarely come out on top when dealing with her.

I loved the first meeting between Daphne and Simon. He may be a rake, but he is also a gentleman who overhears a young lady in apparent distress. His reaction to seeing her deck the man with a well-placed punch was priceless. Their conversation was great as they traded barbs over what to do with her erstwhile suitor, and the sparks between them were obvious. The ballroom scene was fantastic as Simon found himself in the very situation that Anthony predicted, up to and including his introduction to Daphne's mother. It's at this point that Simon comes up with his plan and presents it to Daphne.

I loved watching Simon and Daphne's relationship grow from co-conspirators to something much more. Simon's attraction to Daphne hits him hard from the beginning and horror! It's his best friend's little sister! Add that to his determination not to marry, and it's clear that Simon is in deep trouble. He is fascinated by her, drawn to her practical nature, and can't stay away even when he knows he should. I laughed out loud at how many times she called him out on statements or actions because "I have four brothers. I know how you think." The more time he spends with her, the harder it is to remember his vow.

Daphne is equally fascinated and attracted. That same experience with her brothers gives her the ability to see past Simon's façade to the hurting man inside. I loved her ability to bring him out of the depths of bad memories and intervened several times when things became awkward. It didn't take long for her to see that none of her other suitors measured up to Simon and that she wanted to make their deception real.

When their attraction gets out of hand, Daphne faces a ruined reputation if Simon won't propose. I was glued to the pages during the confrontation with Anthony, the early morning meeting, and Daphne's refusal to allow a duel to take place. I wanted to shake Simon when he fudged the truth about his vow because I knew it wouldn't turn out well. Their marriage starts well (except for that), with the two of them growing closer physically and emotionally. But trouble looms as Daphne discovers the truth and takes matters into her own hands. I ached for them both as Simon's insecurities burst forth due to his anger, and both say things they later regret. It takes time apart for both, but especially Simon, to face their feelings. I loved the ending. The scene in Hyde Park was deeply emotional as Simon finally opened his heart fully to Daphne. Even better was the following scene at Hastings House, as the couple faced three very determined Bridgerton brothers. Watching Simon and Daphne take their shots at them was great, but the winner of that confrontation was most definitely Lady Violet Bridgerton.

The edition I read contained both the original epilogue and the more recent second epilogue. The first one was great, but the second one had a twist that I did not see coming. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series and seeing what the author came up with for their second epilogues.

The secondary characters were just a wonderful as Simon and Daphne. My favorite was Lady Violet, mother of eight. I thoroughly enjoyed watching her "manage" all eight, with them being oblivious to how she does it. I also loved the three oldest brothers, Anthony, Benedict, and Colin. Their love for their family is indisputable, as is their protectiveness toward Daphne. It will be fun to reread their stories and watch them fall. Lastly, the invisible Lady Whistledown cannot be ignored. I enjoyed the excerpts of her paper at the beginning of each chapter. Because it has been so long since I read the books, I don't remember who she turns out to be, so I look forward to the revelation.

A Soldier Under Her Tree - Kathy Douglass (HSE #2808 - Dec 2020)

Series: Sweet Briar Sweethearts (Book 8)

Tis the season...for a second shot at love.

Could a fake boyfriend be

her real hero this Christmas?

When her ex-fiancé shows up at her shop -- engaged to her sister! -- dress designer Hannah Carpenter doesn't know what to do. Especially when her former fling Russell Danielson sees her plight and rides to the rescue, offering a fake relationship to foil her rude relations. The thing is, there's nothing fake about his kiss... But when things get real, will the sexy soldier once again stop short of commitment?

Terrific, sweet Christmas story. Hannah moved to Sweet Briar three years earlier to start a new life after finding her fiancé in bed with her sister. That was just a few days before Christmas, and she hasn't enjoyed a holiday season since then. She has a successful boutique selling the clothes she designs and has sold a few dresses to the rich and famous. She's stunned when her ex-fiancé, sister, and mother show up in Sweet Briar, expecting her to design her sister's wedding dress. Besides flat-out refusing, all she wants to do is get them out of town before they embarrass her in front of the whole town.

Russell arrives in Sweet Briar to spend the holidays with his family. He faces some big decisions about his future. After twenty years in the army, a recent injury made him unable to continue his career, and he faces a medical discharge. Russell feels lost without the vocation that has defined him for more than half his life.

I loved the first meeting between Hannah and Russell. He was so eager to reconnect with the woman he met briefly during the summer that he didn't even unpack his bags, just headed straight for her shop. He arrived in time to hear her confrontation with her family and jumps in, pretending to be her boyfriend. Though initially not very appreciative, Hannah quickly realizes the benefits and asks Russell to continue the charade. For reasons of his own, Russell happily accepts her proposal.

I loved seeing Hannah and Russell start as co-conspirators, become friends, and then grow into something more. Russell was a sweetheart, stepping up to help Hannah in her boutique, cooking for her, and standing up for her against her family. I loved his response when Hannah's mother appealed to him for his opinion. There are plenty of sweet scenes between Russell and Hannah, like the winter festival, as they get to know each other. As they grow closer, their walls begin to crumble. After being the stoic soldier for so long, I liked seeing Russell open up to Hannah about his injuries and his confusion over his future. Hannah also opens up to Russell about what caused her lack of Christmas spirit. I enjoyed how Russell tried to revive Hannah's joy in Christmas until he pushed a little too far and too fast.

I ached for both Russell and Hannah at this point. While Russell's intentions were good, Hannah felt blindsided and that he had disregarded her feelings. There were some harsh and hurtful words exchanged that each one quickly regretted. Both had some soul-searching to do, and I enjoyed seeing them each realize why their fight was so painful. I liked Russell's conversation with his parents and how it helped him accept his future and see how much he wanted Hannah to be part of that future. I loved seeing Hannah's self-examination and release of her past. The ending was fantastic. Hannah's big moment was sweet, and I loved the effect on Russell. An epilogue would have been nice, but I have high hopes of seeing them in future books.

The secondary characters were well done. Hannah's mother and sister were well-portrayed as the selfish, insensitive people that they were. I loved seeing Hannah stand up to them every time. The restaurant scene near the end was fantastic, and I loved the support Hannah received from her friends. I liked Russell's family members and the obvious closeness between them. I sort of understood Russell's desire to work through his issues without them, but I think he underestimated them, too. I need to go back and read his brother's and sister's stories.

Redwood - Janie Crouch (Calamittie Jane Publishing - Jan 2021)

Series: Linear Tactical (Book 11)

Gavin Zimmerman. Military codename: REDWOOD. This former Special Forces soldier will protect Oak Creek from any threat.

Even one that comes in the form of a delicate blonde with haunted eyes.

A tiny town in Wyoming and the fake ID in her pocket are Lexi Adam's last chance. She's used all her resources to escape the danger that hounds her. A danger the whole world would agree she brought on herself.

She just wants a chance to start over, to rest for a moment, but the town's upstanding and oh so sexy sheriff is determined to get to the truth behind her lies.

Even if it gets them both killed.

Redwood grabbed me from the first page and didn't let go until I reached the end. I should be used to it by now because each Linear Tactical book is better than the previous one. I have to be careful when I start reading because these books are impossible to put down, and this one was no exception.

Lexi is at the end of her rope when she stumbles into the bar in Reddington City. On the run from her past and a stalker, she has a flat tire and no money for a new one. Her only hope is to find a mark and liberate the cash needed to continue her journey. I was immediately caught up in her efforts, her self-loathing, and her desperation. There were three possibilities in that bar, one of whom she immediately ruled out. The warrior with the intense gaze would do her no good. But when she can't carry through on her plan, she ends up at the mercy of a drunken lech, and it's the warrior who comes to her rescue. It's a sweet scene when he comforts her, and she repays him by stealing his wallet and disappearing. Thanks to him, she makes it to the job waiting for her in Oak Creek.

Back home, Gavin joins his friend Zac for a drink, still bent out of shape at the way he was fleeced by a pair of pretty green eyes. He couldn't believe he'd been that trusting. He's furious and suspicious when he discovers that the little thief is the new waitress at the Eagle's Nest. His instincts tell him she's trouble and that she has secrets that could affect his friends.

I've liked Gavin in previous books, where his steadfastness and honesty are essential. He does get a little intense in his protectiveness of those he cares for, which has created some awkward situations in the past. However, those are nothing compared to his focus on Lexie. Competing with his suspicion is an intense attraction that he can't deny or fight. Gavin struggles to keep both his suspicion and his protectiveness under control, hoping to earn her trust.

I loved Lexi. She is much stronger than she thinks she is. She made mistakes in her past, which endangered other people, and she can't forgive herself. She also survived things that would have left a weaker woman a physical and emotional mess. I loved watching her make a place for herself in Oak Creek, even though she constantly looked over her shoulder, expecting the worst.

I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Gavin and Lexi. Gavin spends a month watching her every move but is oblivious to the bigger picture until Zac points out that she doesn't do anything except work. Things begin to change between them when Gavin comes to Lexi's rescue after she collapses from exhaustion. There's still a lot of push and pull between them as Gavin continues his quest for answers and Lexi shores up her walls against her desire to trust him. The sparks continue to build until even a blizzard can't contain them, kicking off a new level in their relationship.

I liked seeing Gavin make a conscious effort not to push Lexi for answers she isn't ready to give. It's easy to see that she begins to trust him because she's comfortable enough that little bits of information slip out. There is a fantastic scene where Gavin takes Lexi to his family's home on Christmas. I loved seeing Lexi hold her own against Gavin's ex, letting a little bit of the real Lexi out to play. Things take a bad turn though, when Lexi panics at the arrival of some photographers. I ached for Gavin, whose suspicions were riled up again, and for Lexi, who was sure she screwed everything up. A conversation with Anne helped Lexi let go of a little of her fear, and Gavin's continued suppression of his curiosity made a huge difference.

I loved seeing the change in Lexi, thanks to Gavin's care and attention. For the first time in years, she's happy, and when she realizes that, the guilt hits her hard. She still doesn't believe she deserves to be happy. Then something happens that brings Lexi's fears back to the surface and driving Gavin's need to protect her through the roof. While I understood his need, I wanted to shake him for doing what he said he wouldn't. When Mac and Gavin's brother arrange for Lexi to join Gavin at Zac and Annie's wedding, no one expects what happens next. Though Lexi is in the right place at the right time to prevent a tragedy, it comes at a high cost. I wanted to hit Gavin upside the head with a two by four for being such a complete jerk. I loved his conversation with Dorian as the depth of his idiocy hit home. It got even better when Wavy called him out. But things are about to go from bad to worse.

I ached for Lexi as all of her fears about the truth came true, and she ran from Gavin's anger and disgust. She had no idea what was waiting for her when she arrived back in Wyoming. Her fears about a stalker finding her came to pass, but with a horrifying twist. I felt her terror as she faced her worst nightmare and was impressed with how she kept her head. At the same time, Gavin's contacts come up with some information that shows Lexi is in extreme danger. I loved seeing the LT people spring into action to help one of their own - and Lexi has become one of their own. I was glued to the pages through the entire confrontation and loved how it all went down. Even Ethan and Jess played a critical part! A month later, the scene at the bar was fantastic, and I adored Gavin's drink concoctions for Lexi.