A Waltz in the Park - Deb Marlowe (Deb Marlowe - Feb 2015)

Series: Half Moon House (Book 1.3)

James Vickers once believed honor and family duty to be his life's work. Now he knows better--and he's appointed himself as silent witness to his father's sins. His greatest goal is to act as the continuously pricking thorn in his lordship's side--and scandal is his greatest weapon. He has no use for an innocent young miss.
 
Propriety is Miss Adelaide Stockton's most important asset. She must be all that is prim and proper if she's to live down her parent's misdeeds and have any hope of catching a husband. She must avoid scoundrels like Vickers at all costs.
 
Yet fate has thrown them together--and given each a key to the other's ambition. A bargain is struck...but together they find that gaining what one desires most is far more difficult than a waltz in the park.
 
Very good story. I liked this one much better than An Unexpected Encounter. The characters were more interesting and the story more complex. Addy is a young woman whose life has been upended by the death of her mother. Her father leaves her and her baby sister with relatives and goes off on a journey alone. Addy's great-aunt believes the best thing to do is marry Addy off as soon as possible, while Addy isn't so sure. She tries to be everything her aunt requires while wanting to be true to herself. It isn't an easy process, especially after she catches sight of James Vickers across a crowded ballroom.
 
James cultivated a scandalous reputation intentionally. Once proud of his family name, everything changed after he learned something horrifying about his father. Now he uses scandal to remind his father of what he knows. James appeared in the previous book, An Unexpected Encounter, as the friend who let Lisbeth down and rejected his guardianship of Aurelia. A conversation with his friend Hestia at the end of that book turned his efforts in a slightly different direction, still against his father but with a changed intent. While his scandalous reputation remains, his pursuit of it diminished, and a more honorable man begins to emerge.
 
I liked the first meeting between Addy and James. He is determined to speak with Addy's chaperone, her cousin Rosemond, who was one of his father's mistresses. Rosemond put those wild days behind her to help with Addy's season and wants nothing to do with him. Addy promises James that she will help him with Rosemond if he introduces her to Hestia. James hesitates because he can't see how an innocent can help him but decides to give her a chance. The attraction that flares between them complicates matters.
 
I loved the complex and complicated steps that James and Addy had to take to carry out their plans. Addy has quite the inventive mind, while James has plenty of experience in sneaking around. As their search for the proof James needs against his father throws them together frequently, James and Addy learn more about each other. The more they know, the greater the feelings that develop between them, but the obstacles in front of them grow too. The tension mounted as they came closer to finding what was needed. I ached for them both when using that information could destroy Addy's family. Both James and Addy had decisions to make after harsh words flew between them. James received some excellent advice and used it effectively to solve part of his problem. Meanwhile, Addy faced her role in their argument and realized she had a choice to make. I loved her big moment as she showed James how important he was to her. The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up to the story. 

 

*part of Encounters with a Rogue

An Unexpected Encounter - Deb Marlowe (Deb Marlowe - Sept 2013)

Series: Half Moon House (Book 1.1)

Tall, practical girls might not be worth much in a man's world, but Miss Lisbeth Moreton knows she's worth more than the squire's prized heifer. To change her fate she's run off to a date with destiny at the British Museum. Her would-be suitor never shows, but an unexpected encounter with Lord Cotwell and his lonely ward might lead to altogether new prospects . . . and perhaps to love.
 
Good book. Lisbeth fled her home when her stepfather attempted to arrange a marriage for her in exchange for a prize bull. She arranged to meet a friend at the British Museum, but he never showed up, leaving her stranded with nowhere to go. Hestia Wright, a former courtesan who now helps other women, asked her to keep an eye on an unattended young girl until she can return to assist her. Lisbeth and the little girl, Aurelia, connect quickly. When Aurelia's guardian, Lord Cotwell, tracks her down, Aurelia is quick to engineer a way to keep Lisbeth as her governess.
 
Edmund, Lord Cotwell, is a big bear of a man, gruff and reclusive, who has no clue how to deal with his ward. She ended up with him when her original guardian refused to even see the girl. Aurelia's father was Edmund's best friend, and he wants to do the right thing. Hiring Lisbeth relieves his worries over her care.
 
I enjoyed the development of Edmund and Lisbeth's relationship. Tired of how Society treats him because of his size and social awkwardness, Edmund spends his time shut away in his laboratory working on his inventions. Lisbeth suffered years of her stepfather's constant denigration of her looks and abilities. They first become friends as they share their concern for Aurelia and her grief over her parents' deaths. Lisbeth also takes over as housekeeper, bringing order to Edmund's home and life. Edmund, who locked away his emotions years earlier, finds those feelings stirring back to life around the two females. Lisbeth also feels a growing connection to Edmund though neither feels that they are good enough for the other. A crisis with Aurelia creates the opportunity for some soul-searching, but it's a different encounter that opens Edmund's eyes to the truth. I loved his big moment at the end.

*read as part of Encounters with a Rogue.

So Right...With Mr. Wrong - Anna DePalo (HD #2802 - Apr 2021)

Series: Serenghetti Brothers (Book 4)

Will their fake relationship…
inflame their families' feud?
 
Fashion designer Mia Serenghetti desperately needs a date for the biggest gala of the season. Her only option? The smoldering tech hotshot Damian Musil -- whose family is the Serenghettis' greatest rival in the construction business back home. When the unexpected heat between them proves anything but make-believe, will they risk reputation and family to explore their intense connection? Falling for Mr. Wrong has never been so dangerous…nor felt so right.
 
Fun enemies to lovers story. Mia needs a date for the Ruby Ball. The man she had been dating just got married to someone else. Then Mia mistakes a man at a costume ball for her second choice and discovers that she laid a lip-lock on Damian Musil. She and Damian grew up in the same town, and their families are business rivals, so she's shocked when Damian suggests that he be her date.
 
Though Mia doesn't know it, Damian has been attracted to her for a long time. This event provides the opportunity he needs to get closer to her. Mia is wary, well aware of the animosity her family holds for his. But Damian has an ace up his sleeve to tip the balance his way. Mia soon finds herself embroiled in a fake relationship that becomes all too real.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Damian and Mia. At first, it was just the ball, then Damian needed her for a business outing. It doesn't take long for them to realize that they actually liked each other, in addition to the attraction that burned between them. I liked seeing them spend time together and build a friendship before taking the next step. The more time they spend together, the deeper their feelings grow, though neither admits it. For Mia, the animosity between the two families is a significant obstacle. Things go quite well between them until a recent purchase by Damian's company impacts Mia's family. I ached for both of them, as Mia felt betrayed and Damian was just confused. I loved the advice Damian got from his dad and what he did to make things right. The epilogue was great.
 
The family dynamics in the book were interesting. Mia's brothers Cole and Jordan irritated me with their attitudes toward Damian. I loved the scene at the beginning where he backed up Mia with her family. It was fun to see him refused to get riled no matter what they said. I also liked Mia's encounter with Damian's father and brother. Though I haven't read the other books in the series (yet), there was enough background dropped in through the book that I wasn't lost.  

An Unexpected Father - Marie Ferrarella (HSE #2822 - Mar 2021)

Series: Fortunes of Texas: The Hotel Fortune (Book 3)

This is the story of a man named Brady
 
Reformed playboy Brady Fortune has suddenly become legal guardian to his best friend's little boys, and he is in over his head…until Harper Radcliffe comes to the rescue. His new nanny makes everything better, but her past makes her wary. Can Brady convince her they can somehow form a family? Their Fortune bunch won't feel complete without her!
 
Good book. Brady is the quintessential bachelor until his best friend and his wife die in a motorcycle crash, leaving Brady guardian of their four-year-old twins. The story opens a few months later with Brady at the end of his rope. The two boys are wild and have worn out their welcome with all of the family caregivers. Even Brady's mom tells him she can't take anymore. Brady gives up his job and moves from New York to Texas, where he has more family willing to help and the offer of employment at the new Hotel Fortune. His life doesn't get any easier, as his boys drive nannies away at an alarming rate. Even the owner of the preschool suggests he needs help and gives him a number to call.
 
Harper meets Brady when she stops at his cousin's restaurant looking for work. She lost her job as a nanny when the man of the house made unwelcome advances, but his wife blamed it on Harper. The wife has bad-mouthed Harper to her friends, making it difficult to find another position. The idle conversation with Brady doesn't go well, thanks to his misinterpretation of what the preschool owner said to him. It becomes even more awkward when the number he finally calls belongs to Harper. The ensuing conversation was pretty funny until they straightened out the confusion. Brady's relief that she was a nanny was overwhelming.
 
Harper's connection with Toby and Tyler was immediate. I loved seeing them fall in love with her and her with them. There were many sweet scenes of them together, and also with Brady. It was clear they were well on their way to feeling like a family.
 
The relationship between Brady and Harper was a cautious one. Sparks flew between them from the start, but Harper is extremely wary of trusting him. Brady doesn't want to lose the perfect nanny, so he tries to bury his feelings. I liked seeing Harper grow to trust Brady. It's easy to see them falling for each other and how close they come to admitting it. Then an unexpected ambush by her former employer sends Harper running. But a call from one of the boys telling her that they are at the hospital and Brady needs her stops her in her tracks. I loved the hospital scene and Brady's unwavering belief in her. The ending is sweet, and I loved the surprise the boys gave Harper.
 
There is a brief mention of the ongoing investigation into the balcony collapse from the first book. Brady does a little investigating.

Undercover Heat - Anna J. Stewart (HRS #2127 - Mar 2021)

Series: Colton 911: Chicago (Book 3)

When her life is upended, a detective goes undercover to save it…
 
After tragedy strikes, chef Tatum Colton buries herself in her job. Detective Cruz Medina soon rocks her world once again, claiming criminals are using her restaurant as a front for nefarious activities. Cruz needs Tatum's help to go undercover as her sous-chef, putting them both in the line of fire. But when things get hot in and out of the kitchen, can Cruz protect Tatum and their growing bond?
 
Fantastic book that grabbed me from the start and kept me hooked to the last page. Tatum Colton, chef and owner of Chicago's trendy restaurant, True, lives and breathes her job. Ever since the murders of her father and uncle, True is where she can forget for a little while each day. That relief takes a hit the day Detective Cruz Medina shows up to tell her that he believes her restaurant is being used for drug running. Cruz is determined to stop the cartel responsible for putting his partner into a coma. Convinced that the restaurant is at its center, he wants to go undercover as one of her employees to investigate.
 
The sparks flew between Tatum and Cruz from the moment they met. She is adamant that her people are innocent, and he is just as sure that someone is not. Though her first instinct was to tell him no, eventually, she knew she had to do the right thing. I laughed at her "training session" with him and her surprise at how easily they worked together. It didn't take long for them to acknowledge the attraction they felt and realize that doing anything with it would be a bad idea. I loved watching their interactions both in and out of the kitchen. As the investigation heats up, so does Cruz's protectiveness, which creates a few awkward situations. There's a great scene with Tatum's mother and aunt and others that involved her staff. But as the investigation hurtles toward its conclusion, Cruz's duty clashes with his feelings for Tatum. I ached for them both as Tatum's worst nightmare came to pass and drove a wedge between them. It takes an unexpected twist that puts Tatum in life-threatening danger to bring them back together. I loved the ending.
 
The suspense of the story was terrific. Cruz won't let anything get in the way of bringing down the drug cartel, and that includes his growing feelings for Tatum. I loved watching him make a place for himself in the restaurant. There are plenty of possible suspects, and Cruz trusts his instincts in the investigation. The intensity ramps up when Tatum becomes the victim of several attacks, and she becomes as determined as he is to get at the truth. I had my suspicions about who it was and followed eagerly along as Cruz pursued his leads. I was glued to the pages as it all came together, and Cruz got his man. Unfortunately, Tatum was in the wrong place at the wrong time as an unexpected twist put her in extreme danger. I loved seeing her take control of her fear and do the unexpected to save the day.
 
I thoroughly enjoyed the diverse secondary characters. Tatum's staff at the restaurant were fantastic. I loved the sense of family they exuded and how they watched out for her. Sam and Ty were my favorites. Tatum's mom and aunt were great. Their continuing grief was evident, as was their love for their family. I also liked Cruz's family and had to laugh at how he helped his younger sister.
 
Though the murders of Tatum's dad and uncle were mentioned a couple of times, there was little mention of its investigation. 

 

Scandal at the Speakeasy - Lauri Robinson (HH #1566 - Mar 2021)

Series: Twins of the Twenties (Book 1)

Of all the speakeasies in town he walked into hers…
 
Guilt drives New York cop Patrick McCormick, who promises to reunite schoolteacher Lisa Walters with her long-lost father. Only, Lisa also runs an underground speakeasy! Tough yet innocent, Lisa might be the only one who can help Patrick overcome his past, but she's on the wrong side of the law. Patrick must remember he's there to fulfill a promise, not fall in love…
 
Good book with romance, family drama, and some unexpected suspense at the end. I loved the Prohibition-era setting and the author's deft use of language, description, and real-life events to set the scene.
 
New York cop Patrick, aka "Mick," is haunted by his father's death. Those feelings drive him to leave New York for Missouri to reunite a dying friend with his daughter. However, instead of the schoolteacher he expected to find, Lisa is the owner/operator of an underground speakeasy. Complicating matters, Lisa doesn't believe that her father is alive, forcing Mick to take desperate measures to ensure her cooperation.
 
Lisa's life has been difficult. Her beloved father died during the war, leaving her mother to fall prey to a cruel man. When her mother suffered a stroke, Lisa gave up her teaching plans to care for her. To protect her property from Duane's depredations, Lisa took over the speakeasy. A smart and loyal young woman, Lisa found innovative ways to help her town weather its economic downturn. Mick raised her suspicions as soon as he entered her speakeasy because she knew a cop when she saw one.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Mick and Lisa. They got off to a rough start because Lisa didn't believe him and Mick threatened to bust her speakeasy if she didn't come with him. Because she runs a speakeasy and he's a cop, they are just about as opposite as they can be. But during the three-day train journey from Missouri to New York, each of them begins to gain a new perspective about the other. Lisa sees Mick's human side and understands a little of his need to help Tony reconnect with her. At the same time, Mick gets a look at the possible ramifications of Lisa's departure. I liked seeing Mick's growing respect for Lisa's abilities.
 
Matters are complicated by the growing attraction between Mick and Lisa. There are significant obstacles between them. First is the whole cop vs. speakeasy situation. Lisa needs to return to Missouri to protect her interests from her stepfather's interference, and Mick's life and work are in Rochester. Second, neither Lisa nor Mick has marriage in their long-term plans. Mick has a failed relationship in his past that makes it hard to trust women. Lisa saw the effects of both of her mother's marriages and wants nothing to do with it. However, the more time they spent together, the more each of them longed for a way to be together. Issues with her stepfather put Lisa in danger, and saving her helps Mick see what's essential in his life. I loved the ending and how both Mick and Lisa overcame the obstacles that kept them apart.
 
Both Mick and Lisa suffered from family drama. Mick's was mainly internal, stemming from his early reluctance to follow in his father's footsteps. Mick wanted to be a police officer, and this caused many arguments between himself and his dad. Mick said some things he regretted during their last fight, but his father's death prevented him from making amends. Those regrets motivate Mick to help Tony. Lisa's drama is front and center in the book. She has to face the hurt and anger she feels at what she sees at his desertion of his family. As she learns the truth, that pain and anger turn to her mother, and she deals with her feelings of betrayal. I ached for her and how her world turned upside down. The final blow came with the revelation of Duane's methods of insinuating himself into her mother's life. I  loved Mick's support of Lisa as she worked through everything and his protectiveness when it was needed. It was great to see Duane get his just desserts.
 
I loved the epilogue and seeing Lisa so happy. There was a nice lead-in to the next book about Mick's brother, Connor. I can't wait to read it.

Presumed Deadly - Cindi Myers (HI #1991 - Apr 2021)

Series: Ranger Brigade: Rocky Mountain Manhunt (Book 4)

He needed someone on his side…
 
She vowed that person would be her.
 
Dane Trask will do anything to bring down an international drug ring, but he knows his first step is getting Ranger Brigade officer Faith Martin's help. Faith can't deny Dane's unwavering determination -- nor her attraction to the desperate fugitive. But when their investigation means eluding Faith's fellow cops and an unknown killer, will the rugged Colorado terrain help them…or ensure their demise?
 
This was the exciting conclusion to the Ranger Brigade's hunt for the elusive Dane Trask. In the previous three books, the Brigade searched for the elusive former army Ranger, never quite catching up to him. It became increasingly evident that Dane had an agenda, one that his former employers were determined to stop. I've been looking forward to Dane's story, and it did not disappoint.
 
The members of the Brigade have grown increasingly frustrated by Dane's elusiveness. The newest member of the team, Faith Martin, acts as their liaison with the press and other agencies. She is not impressed by Dane's actions and believes that he should turn himself in and get their help. It turns out that Dane half agrees, but instead of turning himself in, he kidnaps her as she leaves work one night.
 
Desperate times call for desperate measures, and Dane finally admitted he could no longer do it alone. He lucked out when he picked Faith as his target, as she was enough of a loose cannon to agree to help him. It wasn't an easy sell at first, as she wanted him to turn himself in, but she soon understood his reasons for going it alone. I enjoyed seeing them work together, as they had two different styles of taking action. Dane is more of a seat-of-the-pants guy, coming up with his efforts on the fly. Faith is a planner who lays out her objectives and lists needs, possible problems, alternate actions. I loved watching her call him out on his less-than-successful results doing things his way and convincing him to try it her way.
 
Neither Dane nor Faith expected the sparks of attraction that flared between them. Dane has spent so much time alone that he's surprised by how quickly she comes to mean something to him. I liked that he felt guilty about involving her and tried to get her to leave, and also that he appreciated her help and listened to what she said. Faith's attraction to Dane grew along with her belief in his innocence. I loved that she saw him clearly even through her love for him: "But for all that Dane challenged her and even annoyed her - or perhaps because of that - she belonged with him. He was the home she'd been searching for all these years."
 
The suspense of the story was outstanding. When the previous book ended and Dane still hadn't reappeared, it became clear that there must be something more going on. An attack on him emphasized that his bosses weren't going to give up trying to stop him. Dane's decision to kidnap Faith surprised me, as it seemed out of character for him. I could feel his intensity as he explained the problems to Faith. Her disappearance intensified the Rangers' efforts as they suspected Dane's involvement. I was glued to the pages as Dane and Faith went from one attempt to the next to get the evidence they needed to bring the bad guys down. The scene at the bad guy's house was wild, and I could feel Faith's fear for Dane. I loved that her fellow Brigade members trusted her enough to follow their instincts on that episode and its unexpected result. The final confrontation with the bad guy had me on the edge of my seat as Dane and Faith faced a desperate man. The resolution was a nail-biter, and I loved how it went down. I had to laugh at Dane's explanation of his knife-throwing skills - I'm well aware of the hazards of mixing Scouts and pocket knives.

The Last Carolina Sister - Michelle Major (HQN - Apr 2021)

Series: Magnolia Sisters (Book 3)

In Magnolia, North Carolina, love might be waiting right next door…Meredith Ventner knows a wounded creature when she sees one. Though her temporary new neighbor may be -- on the surface at least -- a successful, drop-dead gorgeous doctor, she recognizes the deep hurt Ryan Sorensen is carrying, and it's catnip to her soul. But even though Meredith is the youngest, scrappiest and single-est of Magnolia's most famous sisters, she's committed to expanding the animal shelter on her newly inherited farm. She can't waste her energy on a man who's only passing through town.
 
Ryan is hoping that after a month of small-town living he'll be healed enough to return to his busy ER. His injured leg isn't half as painful as his guilt from the tragedy he's trying to forget. Yet somehow, helping feisty, tenderhearted Meredith care for her menagerie is making him question his career-first priorities. Here in this quirky small town another future is coming into view, but can he change his life, and open his heart, to claim it?
 
Terrific conclusion to the Magnolia Sisters trilogy. Avery, Carrie, and Meredith are half-sisters who discovered their connection after the death of their father. Left to deal with their father's financial mismanagement, they've spent the last six months restoring stability to their properties and the town. Along the way, Avery and Carrie found love. Meredith's inheritance was the farm where she runs her animal rescue. She barely makes ends meet, and the taxes on the property will be due soon. Meredith has big dreams for the property and applies to many places for grants to help her.
 
The story opens as Meredith shows up at a new neighbor's house, looking for help with an injured man. Ryan is a doctor, temporarily staying in Magnolia while he recovers from an injury he received on the job. He doesn't want to go with her, but she won't take no for an answer. Neither one has any inkling of the impact they will have on each other's lives.
 
I liked both Meredith and Ryan. Meredith leans toward the blunt end of the social skill set. After her mother left them, she was the only girl in the family with a somewhat gruff father and two older brothers. Her mother's desertion and a traumatic event while in high school left Meredith with a very low opinion of herself and her abilities. Add in the shock of the revelations about her birth father and two previously unknown sisters, and Meredith struggles with figuring out who she is. She built walls around her heart and buries herself in her work with the animals to avoid thinking about her problems. One thing Meredith has going for her is a sensitive and kind heart. I love her devotion to her animals and her determination to give them the best she can.
 
Ryan came to Magnolia to heal, not just from his physical injury but also from the emotional trauma. He's hiding out, wallowing a bit in the guilt he feels, but also going a bit stir-crazy. Though born to a wealthy family, Ryan's father raised him and his sister to focus on service to others rather than personal pleasure. Even family vacations were spent on volunteer opportunities instead of any fun or relaxation. As a result, Ryan focuses on work and has no close friends or hobbies. He also puts distance between himself and the family's wealthy side to avoid being judged for something he doesn't want.
 
I loved the development of the relationship between Meredith and Ryan. Their first meeting, as Meredith practically kidnapped Ryan, was both funny and a little heartbreaking. It hurt to see Ryan so deep in his guilt that he was afraid to help. Once he was there, he was okay, though still trying to maintain his distance. But a funny thing happened, as Ryan found himself connecting with Meredith and her animals. That connection freaked him out a little, and it took a couple of tries before he became comfortable around her. As the attraction between them sparked and simmered, their friendship also grew. I liked Ryan's protectiveness and support as he helped her with the rescue. I especially liked how Ryan refused to let Meredith put herself down around him and worked to show her how amazing she is. Working with Meredith and getting to know other locals showed Ryan what was missing in his city life.
 
The more time Meredith and Ryan spent together, the more their feelings for each other grew, though neither wanted to admit it. Meredith knows he doesn't plan to stay, and she doesn't see herself as appealing enough to keep him there. Ryan still insists to himself that he will return to his previous life and forget his time in Magnolia. But just as it looks like they might finally see the truth, a secret Ryan's been keeping comes out and runs up against one of Meredith's deepest insecurities. I hurt for Ryan as Meredith refused to listen to him, making him rethink his plans. Meredith's feelings of betrayal drove her to say some hurtful things. I loved seeing friends and family get involved in bringing the two back together.
 
The family dynamics in the book added to the emotional journeys of both Meredith and Ryan. Ryan's we mostly see through his memories of the past and the effects of his parents' actions on his life. We get a brief introduction to his sister, Emma, who makes a quick visit to Magnolia. Their conversation reveals a lot about why Ryan distances himself from his family and shows how much he cares for his sister. Another meaningful relationship is that of Meredith with her family. Her relationship with her dad changed when the truth of her birth came out. The distance between them hurts Meredith. I liked seeing the beginnings of a return to normal after Meredith's accident and her dad and brothers arrival to help. I also enjoyed seeing the continued closeness between Avery, Carrie, and Meredith. I especially enjoyed seeing Avery and Carrie work on Meredith's self-worth and help her steer through her relationship with Ryan.

What Happens at the Ranch... - Christy Jeffries (HSE #2810 - Jan 2021)

Series: Twin Kings Ranch (Book 1)

Their attraction is anything but by the book.
 
Looking after journalist Tessa King should have been a simple assignment for Secret Service agent Grayson Wyatt. But a family tragedy, and a social media faux pas, forces the vice president's famous daughter to hide out at her family's Wyoming ranch -- and forces Grayson to play cowboy to blend in. Their attraction breaks every protocol -- and threatens to expose Tessa's deepest secret. Worse, the media's chasing a story that could put everything the couple is fighting for at risk...
 
Terrific start to the new series. The book started with a bang as Tessa King, a television news personality and oldest daughter of the vice president, has a panic attack at her father's funeral. She stumbles out of the church and right into the arms of Secret Service agent Grayson Wyatt. Grayson does what he does best - protects the subject and gets her away from the situation. Unfortunately, Tessa doesn't react well once she recovers, and the resulting social media firestorm makes it necessary for her to hide out at the family ranch. As part of the protection detail, Grayson also remains behind.
 
I loved both Tessa and Grayson. Tessa is a former athlete who overcame some incredible obstacles to get where she is today. Though she is a public figure and open about her professional life, she works hard to keep her private life private. Tessa is stubbornly independent and fights the requirement to have protection while on the family ranch, which puts her at odds with Grayson.
 
Grayson is easily as stubborn as Tessa, making their early interactions especially volatile. He allows nothing to stop him from doing his job. His presence on the ranch is complicated by the guilt he feels over not being with his mother and sister, Maddy, as she undergoes a complicated medical procedure.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Tessa and Grayson develop. When Tessa's early attempts to avoid Grayson's protection fail, they reach a tentative truce over the matter. As they spend more time together, that truce becomes friendship. I loved watching them argue, banter, and get to know each other. Tessa's sincere interest in his family, especially his sister, surprises Grayson and adds to his growing feelings for her. At the same time, Tessa trusts Grayson enough to depend on his support as she faces one of her greatest fears. The scene at the pool was intensely moving. I loved Grayson's pride in her accomplishment and Tessa's relief and joy at overcoming her fear and regaining her confidence.
 
I ached for them both as they admitted their feelings for each other but couldn't find a way to be together. Tessa's high visibility career and Grayson's need for anonymity in his made it impossible. I loved that neither one expected the other to give up their career for the other. A chance encounter after their parting brought their feelings roaring back to the surface and emphasized their obstacles. I loved how Tessa coped with their parting and the effect it had on Grayson. His big moment at the end was awesome and the perfect demonstration of the depth of his feelings.
 
I love Tessa's family. They are loving, dramatic, and quirky and have no difficulty butting into each other's lives. I liked how Grayson took a chance and enlisted their help at the end. I look forward to the rest of the series and getting to know the others better.

The Earl's Reluctant Proposal - Louise Allen (HH #1561 - Mar 2021)

Series: Liberated Ladies (Book 4)

When an eligible earl meets a plain music teacher…
 
Max Fenton, Earl of Burnham, needs someone to attend a house party with him to keep an eye on his willful, romantically inclined stepsister. Though he must have taken leave of his senses when he persuades his sister's prickly piano teacher, Miss Lucy Lambert, into the job! Especially when they are inadvertently compromised together…and his only option is a much more permanent proposal!
 
Fun book to read. The story opens as Lucy awakens from a drugged sleep, confronted by her pupil's irate stepbrother. It seems that Sophia used Lucy to hide her departure to a forbidden house party. After explaining the circumstances, Max hires Lucy to accompany him to the same house party to discover what unsuitable man Sophia imagines herself in love with.
 
I liked Lucy. She is intelligent and determined. Estranged from her parents after their actions resulted in the devastating loss of her music, she moved to London to become a piano teacher. I loved that Max doesn't intimidate her and how she stands up to him.
 
I had a more challenging time with Max. I liked that he takes his responsibility for his stepsister seriously and his protectiveness is understandable. I ached for him and the tragedy that had such a significant impact on his life. Max also comes across as cold and arrogant and doesn't consider what effect his plan could have on Lucy and her reputation.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Max and Lucy. It was simply a business arrangement at first, with neither anticipating anything else. It didn't take long for sparks to grow, jumpstarted by an episode of having to hide under a bed. Each is aware of the class gap between them, but that doesn't stop the attraction from growing. Lucy's ability to ferret out information impresses Max, and he finds himself more and more drawn to her. I thought he lacked empathy until the evening of the musical performances. It warmed my heart to see him comfort her on losing her ability to play and open her eyes to another way to feel the music. From this point, the feelings between them really started to grow. Max fought hard against them, wanting nothing to do with the idea of love. Lucy acknowledged hers to herself, but though she dreamed of the possibilities, was painfully aware of Max's opinion on the subject.
 
When Lucy discovers Sophia's secret, matters become far more complicated. Max is adamant that Sophia's feelings wouldn't outlast the difficulties and refuses to go along with her. Until this point, I thought Sophia was a spoiled brat, and her immediate reactions bear this out. Her attempt at revenge puts Lucy's reputation at risk, compelling Max to propose. I loved how Lucy stood up for herself and refused to give in to a life without love. I especially enjoyed how she avoided his attempt to convince her with an unusual method of leaving the house party. Max isn't finished, though, and tries yet again with predictable results from the stubborn Lucy in a great scene with her landlady. With their return to London, Max faced a changed Sophia and began to get an idea of the depth of her feelings. Thanks to her, he also began to accept his own feelings for Lucy but didn't know what to do.
 
Meanwhile, Lucy spent time with her happily married friends who offered her sympathy and assistance if she wanted it (and even if she didn't). There was an interesting discussion between Lucy's friend, Verity (the duchess), and Max, giving him more to think about. I ached for Lucy, who looked at a lonely life ahead of her. Her life took an odd twist when her estranged parents showed up, quivering with righteous indignation over her "disgrace." Max's timely arrival provided Lucy with unexpected support and unanswered questions after his departure. I loved her "aha" moment and what she did with it. The scene on the street was fantastic, and I loved seeing them fully open up to each other. The epilogue was terrific, and I loved the little part with Lucy and her friends. I'm looking forward to the final book with their friend Melissa. 

A New Foundation - Rochelle Alers (HSE #2828 - Apr 2021)

Series: Bainbridge House (Book 1)

He's the man with the plans
 
But she's calling the shots
 
After escaping an abusive marriage, Sonya Rios-Martin is determined to live an independent life. The generous job offer from Taylor Williamson will help her do that. But her unexpectedly strong attraction to model-turned-project-engineer Taylor throws a wrench in her plans. Sonya and Taylor have to figure out how to build a solid foundation—without re-creating the cracks from her last devastating relationship.
 
Good start to the new series. I love the theme of restoring an old French chateau that was moved to New Jersey. Taylor is committed to honoring his late father's wish to renovate Bainbridge House, as are his three brothers and one sister. His sister, Viola, tells Taylor about her friend, Sonja, an architectural historian, as the perfect person to help him get it right. Sonja spent four years in an abusive marriage before escaping and working to regain her independence. Working on the Bainbridge House restoration will go a long way toward establishing her reputation in her field.
 
I loved the first meeting between Sonja and Taylor. The sparks were there from the beginning though both initially tried to ignore them. Taylor plans to concentrate on the renovations, while Sonja has no intention of getting involved with another man. Sonja's intelligence and passion for her work fascinated Taylor, and he knew she was exactly what he needed for the project. I liked watching them connect over their love of the house and the friendship that evolved because of it.
 
It wasn't long before Taylor realized he wanted more than friendship with Sonja. However, as attracted as he is to her, he doesn't just want to sleep with her. Taylor craves the kind of loving relationship his parents had and believes he can have it with Sonja. All he has to do is convince her. I enjoyed his efforts to do so and appreciated how he was always careful not to push. That care is what slowly worked its way past Sonja's walls.
 
I liked seeing Sonja let go of her fears and embrace her feelings for Taylor. Their connection over the house added an extra layer to those feelings. Their relationship looked very promising for the future until Taylor saw something that he misinterpreted and reacted poorly. His words and actions brought back bad memories of her marriage and drove Sonja away. I ached for Sonja as she tried to reconcile those memories with her feelings for Taylor. Conversations with her mother helped her enough to think about what had happened from another perspective. I liked that Taylor was smart enough to realize how badly he'd behaved and patient enough to give Sonja the time she needed. The ending was great, as both Taylor and Sonja shared their fears and feelings before moving on to their future.
 
One of the things I liked about this book were the little details that go into restoring a building like Bainbridge House, from the foundation to the landscaping. I'd love to see more about some of the treasures Sonja finds. I loved her suggestions about the farm-to-table for the planned restaurant. I look forward to the future books with Taylor's siblings, each of whom has a talent/career that blends well with their plans for the chateau.

Highland Treasure - Lynsay Sands (Avon - Feb 2021)

 

Series: Highlander Brides (Book 9)

After escaping from the English soldiers who attacked her home and imprisoned her in a dungeon, Lady Elysande de Valance is grateful for the rugged Scots who are escorting her to safety in the Highlands. Even with danger dogging their every step, she hadn't expected to welcome the strong comforting embrace of their leader, Rory Buchanan. They say he's a healer, but she finds the heat of his touch does so much more…
 
Let his brothers get married -- Rory is too busy tending to the sick to be bothered with wooing a bride. But when he is tasked with accompanying a family friend's "treasure" to the Highlands, he is surprised to learn the treasure is a beautiful woman on the run -- and even more surprised to discover bruises hidden by her veil. Rory makes it his mission to tend to her injuries and protect her, but the thought of losing her makes him realize that perhaps it is his heart that is most in need of healing…
 
Another Buchanan brother bites the dust. Rory Buchanan is a healer who is well-known throughout Scotland and even into England. He and his brother Alick are the last of the unmarried Buchanan brothers, though not for lack of opportunity. His family does their best to put a variety of women in front of him, but Rory isn't interested. He will eventually get around to marrying, but his healer duties occupy him more. That all comes to an end when he receives a request to escort a "treasure" to a family friend's home.
 
Elysande barely escaped her home with her life. A family friend turned traitor murdered her parents and all of their soldiers and beat Elysande nearly to death, searching for incriminating evidence against him. With the help of the servants and two knights who were away during the attack, she escapes the castle to meet with the man who will get her to her extended family.
 
I liked both Elysande and Rory. She is intelligent, kind, determined, and more than a little stubborn. It's that stubbornness that compels her to bury her pain for as long as she can to facilitate their escape from her pursuers. Her kindness is evident in many ways during their journey, but especially during their stay in Carlisle. I loved how easily she connected with all types of people. Rory has been present in the previous books, helping his brothers along their ways to wedded bliss, but not ready to take that step himself. He immediately steps up to take responsibility for Elysande's safety and find a way to get that evidence where it will do the most good.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Rory and Elysande. She intrigues Rory from the start with her determination and resilience, while Elysande finds it easy to trust him. I found it very amusing that Elysande was most interested in Rory for his protection rather than his healing abilities, as she is a good healer herself. Rory's nose was out of joint because he wanted to be the one to heal her. I loved seeing them get to know each other over the journey and learn to trust each other. I had to laugh at how Elysande's trust manifested during the first nights on the road, and she moved in on him while she was asleep. Poor Rory surely had some uncomfortable moments!
 
As Rory and Elysande grew closer, Rory had some unexpected bouts of insecurity. Because she doesn't need him as a healer, and he doesn't see himself as special, he isn't sure what he can offer her. It takes some effort to convince him that he is more than just a healer; he is a fierce protector and a good and honorable man. That honor and protectiveness kick in when he realizes her reputation is a stake, and he takes steps to preserve it. I loved watching the attraction between them simmer until it could no longer be contained and how it enhanced the feelings growing between them.
 
The tension remains high throughout the book as their little troop barely seems to stay a step ahead of their pursuers. I loved their time in the town of Carlisle. Elysande's ability to connect with anyone makes friends out of enemies. Rory worries that she's too open with those that she encounters, and I could feel his frustration with her. But Elysande is proved right in a hilarious scene when nearly the entire town turns out to help them get away. Their worries aren't over yet, as even once they make it into Scotland, their enemies are close behind. An attack on Elysande puts her life in danger and raises Rory's suspicions. I loved watching him put his mind to discovering the truth, solving the issue of getting the evidence to the English king, and keeping Elysande safe. A last-minute betrayal nearly brought disaster, and I ached for Elysande because of it. Once again, Rory saved the day.
 
I loved the ending. First, the king summoned Rory and Elysande. I laughed out loud as Elysande talked circles around the king, making it impossible for him to annul the marriage between her and Rory. Rory's amusement was fun to watch, as the king knew he'd been played and couldn't logically do anything about it. Then, a month later, Rory's "reward" for his help showed up in Scotland. I laughed out loud as Rory faced that headache, only to turn around and find another one coming from the other direction. Elysande's happiness was vital to him, but what he faced could have been a disaster. I loved how it turned out and chuckled at her description of it being like having a kitchen full of cooks. Now I can't wait for Alick's story.

The Cowgirl's Surprise Match - Nina Crespo (HSE #2818 - Feb 2021)

Series: Tillbridge Stables (Book 3)

A sweet charade takes an unexpected turn!
 
Dearly beloved, we are (not) gathered together...
 
Maid of honor Zurie Tillbridge has been working secretly with best man Mace Calderone to plan her cousin Tristan's wedding to a well-known actress. To keep their wedding plans from leaking to the press, Zurie and Mace must pretend they are the ones getting married. Cake tasting and flower arranging seem like harmless fun...until wary workaholic Zurie realizes she's feeling something real for her fake fiancé...
 
Good book. Zurie is one of Tillbridge Stables and Guesthouse's co-owners, along with her sister, Rina, and her cousin, Tristan. For Zurie, the business is her whole life; she has no hobbies and no social life to speak of. Honestly, she is something of a control freak. When her health starts to suffer, her doctor insists that she take some time off, but Zurie is desperate for something to do within a couple of days.
 
Her cousin Tristan just got engaged to Chloe an actress working on a film on the stables property. To avoid unwanted paparazzi attention, he and Chloe plan to do a quickie wedding, even though it isn't what they want. Zurie offers to be their wedding planner so that they can marry on the property. She knows she can keep everything quiet until the big day. On the way to a meeting with her sister and the bride and groom, Zurie crashes into Mace. They've known each other since they were kids, but she can't help noticing that he's grown into a sexy man.
 
Mace has been interested in Zurie for a long time. He had a crush on her when she was his math tutor in high school, and it's only gotten worse since he moved back to town. He works as a deputy and recently finished law school and is in no hurry to take the bar exam. Mace is Tristan's best friend and best man, so he offers to help Zurie with the arrangements. When a local reporter gets too close to the truth, Mace and Zurie pretend that they are the ones getting married.
 
I loved Mace. He is an all-around nice guy. Because of his feelings for Zurie, he is attuned to her emotions and actions. I liked how he wanted to help her learn to relax and see that there is more to life than work. His demonstration of relaxation techniques while sitting on a park bench was sweet.
 
Zurie was a bit of a tough nut to crack. She focuses on the business so much that she genuinely believes it is impossible to have a relationship at the same time. A previous relationship reinforced this belief, leaving her occasionally feeling very alone.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Mace and Zurie develop. When they first acknowledged the attraction between them, both agreed they weren't looking for a relationship. Mace knows he plans to leave after he passes the bar exam, and Zurie doesn't do relationships. However, the more time they spend together, the more real that fake engagement feels. I ached for them both because each believed the other didn't share their feelings. It takes a visit with his family and an uncomfortable conversation with his brother for Mace to face the truth about what he wants. The question is whether he can convince Zurie that what he wants is her. I loved the ending and seeing him lay his heart on the line and still give her the space to make her decision without pressure. I loved her comment about what he forgot and its importance.

Her Gallant Captain at Waterloo - Diane Gaston (HH #1556 - Feb 2021)

Series: Captains of Waterloo (Book 1)

From vicar's son to captain of her heart!
 
Lady Helene Barnes travels to Brussels to bring her battle-seeking younger brother home, only to collide with Rhys Landon, her ex-fiancé! Gone is the penniless vicar's son, now transformed into a combat-hardened captain. The spark still burns between them, but Rhys has a new love now -- the army. Until, on the eve of battle, with Napoleon's troops advancing, the emotional turmoil of their past explodes into a night of passion!
 
Good second chance romance. Helene's younger brother, David, snuck away from home and went to Brussels, determined to witness the war against Napoleon for himself. Intent on saving him from himself, Helene and her trusted servant chase after him. They check every tavern they encounter until they find him, about to come out on the wrong end of an argument. He's saved from disaster by the intervention of an army captain. The realization that it is her former friend and fiancé stuns Helene.
 
The last person Rhys expected to see in Brussels, Helene brings back both good and bad memories. Good memories of growing up together, the vicar's son and the earl's daughter, playing knights and damsels and other childhood games. Then the changing feelings to something more potent and more adult, and their plans to elope. Rhys is still bitter about how their relationship ended, believing that Helene threw away their love for the chance of a better alliance. As much as he'd like to ignore her, he can't abandon her in this situation.
 
This was an emotional book in an intense setting. Seeing Rhys brings back Helene's memories of their time together, but also the pain of their parting. She never forgot her love for him and remained unmarried. It hurts that he is so cold to her, but she can't blame him. Rhys is torn. He wants to maintain his distance but can't stop his need to protect her. When Helene's servant, Wilson, whom he remembers fondly, takes ill, Rhys steps in to help find a doctor. Thrown together by several situations, Rhys and Helene slowly reconnect, their previous feelings resurfacing and growing stronger. The night before the battle brought out the desperation both felt, and they gave in to the attraction that burned between them. With Waterloo looming, Rhys insists that Helene leave Brussels while she still can.
 
Helene's reason for being in Brussels, finding her brother, and taking him home, proves to be a losing proposition. At eighteen years old, David is headstrong and unwilling to listen to reason. I ached for Helene because David was clearly acting like a spoiled brat. I was not surprised by what happened to him and wanted to shake him for the pain he caused his sister. Though I felt bad for what he suffered, he brought it on himself by his unthinking behavior. By the end, I saw a glimmer of hope for him, but only time will tell.
 
Because of David's actions, Helene ends up in the middle of the battle. There is a terrific scene of her finding Rhys in the chaos and the emotional time together. The descriptions of the battle from Rhys's perspective made me feel as though I was there, and Helene's time helping the field surgeon was heart-wrenching. Even the aftermath was vividly portrayed, as Rhys and Helene tried to figure out their future. There was a while where it looked like circumstances would part them again, but both Rhys and Helene refused to let it happen. I loved the epilogue and seeing how they made it work. I loved the twist at the end and what it could mean for them.
 
The secondary characters were great. I especially like Mrs. Jacobs, the nurse, and her unshakeable belief that Rhys and Helene belonged together. I enjoyed how she and Wilson's lady, Louise, collaborated to ensure that Helene could go to the ball. I also liked Rhys's friend, Grant. Their friendship is a solid one, built on shared experiences during the war. I liked when Grant stepped in to help Helene when Rhys was stubborn. I would love to see him get his own story. 

Consequences of Their New York Night - Tina Beckett (HMED #1165 - Apr 2021)

Series: New York Bachelors' Club (Book 1)

An irresistible fling
 
that changed his life forever…
 
What’s the key to a happy life? Well, for relationship-weary Dr. Kaleb, it’s simple… Keep love out of the equation! But when diagnostician Nicola is introduced as his new colleague, life gets complicated. Why? Nicola is the beautiful stranger Kaleb spent one incredible night with—and couldn’t forget! Yet, it’s another unexpected arrival—in nine months’ time!—that will truly shake up Kaleb’s world…
 
Good book. Kaleb is a man who has been burned by love - twice. Two broken engagements have convinced him that love isn't for him. He and his best friend, Snowden, who has just gone through a divorce, have made a pact to that effect - keep love out of any relationship. When one of his medical cases goes sour, Kaleb relieves his pain with a woman he picks up at a bar and whom he never expects to see again. Too bad he can't forget her.
 
Nicola was having a horrible day. The end of her engagement and her brother's death hit her hard, and she went to the bar looking for a way to forget. She found it in Kaleb but was horrified by what she'd done and snuck away the next morning. She still thinks about that night.
 
Imagine their surprise when they discover they now work in the same hospital. When Nicola "met" Kaleb, she pretended that she didn't know him rather than admit their acquaintance in front of the hospital administrator. Kaleb's ego took a hit when it appeared she didn't remember him but told himself it made things easier. I loved the scene where Nicola assisted on the possible eye tumor, and Kaleb ran interference between her and the other doctor, then later talks to her about attitudes. I loved his interest in her methods and how a tentative friendship started between them, all while ignoring the elephant in the room and the attraction that neither will admit.
 
That elephant got a lot bigger when Nicola discovered she was pregnant. She knew she had to tell Kaleb, but that meant admitting she remembered their night together.  That admission triggered an unexpected burst of passion that made the following conversation a bit more complicated. Kaleb was stunned by the news, especially considering his earlier vow, but immediately let Nicola know that he planned to be involved. I loved how they talked honestly with each other about expectations. Both believe that they are not interested in a relationship but can work together to parent effectively. There are some terrific scenes of them spending time together talking. There is also an especially emotional scene where they both consult on the case of a newborn baby.
 
Things come to a head after dinner with Nicola's parents. I loved how comfortable Kaleb was with them. The byplay between Kaleb and Nicola during the dinner was unexpected and led to steamy after-dinner actions. It was also a wake-up call for Kaleb, who realized that he wanted Nicola in his life. However, remembering his pact with Snowden causes Kaleb to behave in a boneheaded way. I ached for Nicola, who had accepted her feelings for Kaleb, and was hurt by his lukewarm proposition. I just shook my head at Kaleb's confusion and dismay and laughed as he was set straight by Snowden of all people. Meanwhile, Nicola uses an unusual method to reach some conclusions of her own. I loved the ending, especially when Nicola revealed her method and its focus. I'm looking forward to Snowden's story. 

The Heiress's Pregnancy Surprise - Donna Alward (HR #4747 - Feb 2021)

 

Series: Heirs to an Empire (Book 2)

A VIP assignment…
 
…an unexpected consequence!
 
Former SAS officer Jacob Wolfe's latest job, as aristocrat Charlotte Pemberton's bodyguard, is pushing him to his limits. Never one to step over the line, he's determined to ignore their intense connection. Until a single dance leads to a forbidden kiss…and Jacob is tempted to break all his rules. But when their resulting night together has an unexpected consequence, Jacob finds himself with a whole new assignment -- daddy!
 
Terrific book. Charlotte runs PR for her family's fashion business, Aurora, Inc., and is also in charge of this year's Fashion Week presence in New York. She's excited but nervous, also and determined to do an outstanding job. However, having a bodyguard tagging along just because of a few strange emails was not part of her plan, especially one so physically appealing to her.
 
Former SAS officer Jacob owns a security company that specializes in protecting VIPs. He's spent enough time around the rich and famous that they don't impress him. The last place Jacob wants to be is babysitting some spoiled socialite when he could have been on his first vacation in years. It would help if she weren't so beautiful, but he can remain strictly professional and keep his mind on the job.
 
I loved watching the development of the relationship between Jacob and Charlotte. Jacob quickly realizes that Charlotte is no high-maintenance society girl. I loved watching his opinion of her change as he sees how hard she works. Jacob also sees past the confident façade and picks up on the occasional insecurity. He's impressed with her wit and intelligence and more than happy to lend his support when she needs it. I loved his actions when they ran into her ex. It's about that time when Jacob realizes that she has more of an effect on him than he expected, which worries him.
 
Charlotte begins to see that there is more to Jacob than muscles and protection. His presence at her side made a huge difference to her confidence, especially when she received another threat. I loved how he gave her the boost she needed to step outside her comfort zone and shine on her own merits.  The attraction that flared between them took her by surprise. I loved how he was there to support her when disaster happened.
 
When the threat against Charlotte ended, that left Jacob at loose ends. He no longer had a purpose but was reluctant to leave, nor was Charlotte ready for him to go. I loved how she talked him into staying and taking her to the party that night as a friend and not her bodyguard. A dance led to a kiss led to giving in to their attraction. I loved that both were honest with each other about their expectations. Neither wanted a relationship. Charlotte has significant trust issues and doesn't want to let anyone that close. Jacob still feels guilt from the end of his last relationship. When they parted ways at the end of the trip, neither expected to see the other again.
 
I loved seeing how, despite their stated expectations, neither Jacob nor Charlotte wanted to end things. However, neither could see a way to make it work. Jacob fixates on the differences in their lives, while Charlotte only sees that they live in two different countries. But when Charlotte discovers she's pregnant, she knows she has to tell him in person.
 
Jacob's happiness at Charlotte's unexpected arrival worried him. Unable to forget her or put their time together behind him, seeing her again makes his longing for her even worse. To say that he was stunned at her news would be an understatement. While Charlotte expresses her ability and willingness to bring up the baby on her own, Jacob's insistence on being part of the baby's life makes her happy. I liked their determination to have a frank discussion on how to co-parent effectively. When Charlotte invites him to the family home for the weekend for further talks, Jacob is wary of what to expect. The arrival of Charlotte's older brother (the earl!) adds unexpected complications. I loved the interactions between Jacob and Stephen and Charlotte's frustration with them both. The private conversation between the two men was eye-opening for Jacob and clarified some things for him.
 
The conversation between Jacob and Charlotte the next morning was heartbreaking, as she allowed her fears to push Jacob away. It didn't take long for her to realize what she'd done, but a while longer to get up the courage to do something about it. I loved her return to England and seeing her face Jacob. In an emotional scene, they were both fully open and shared their hopes and fears. I loved their solution and how easy it was for them to do once they'd dealt with their issues. The epilogue was beautiful. 

 

His Accidental Countess - Annie Burrows (HH #1567 - Apr 2021)

From abducted……
 
to betrothed!
 
To stop an unsuitable elopement, Tobias Spenlow bundles his ward's intended bride into his carriage—only to discover he's made a terrible mistake. The woman is actually innocent governess Miss Dorothy Phillips—whose reputation he's unintentionally ruined! The only way to right this wrong is for the earl to wed her. She might have accidentally become his countess, but their consuming attraction has him courting her in earnest!
 
Fun book, with two people who are used to being in charge and must learn when to give a little. Dora is the oldest of five siblings and ran the family after her mother's death when Dora was ten. After her vicar father's recent death, the only way to keep the family together was to use their inheritance to send the younger children to school while Dora takes up a governess post. She's on her way to her first post when her journey is rudely interrupted. While comforting a young runaway couple, the young man's guardian arrives, determined to stop the elopement. Lord Worsley grabs the woman he believes has led his ward astray and abducts her without stopping to check his facts.
 
Worsley is so intent in his purpose that he doesn't listen as both Geoffrey and Dora try to tell him he has the wrong woman. It isn't until the next morning, when he attempts to return the young woman to her parents that he discovers the truth. Worsley is naturally horrified and apologetic and tries to return her to her original location to resume her journey. Unfortunately, her reputation is thoroughly compromised by now, and he insists on marrying Dora to make it right.
 
The abduction is the first of many misunderstandings that are both funny and heartbreaking. Dora is a practical young woman who has frequently been accused of being "managing." She doesn't suffer fools gladly and has no trouble speaking her mind. I loved how she didn't get hysterical during the abduction; she simply settled down and waited for the truth to come out. That's not to say she didn't have some choice words for Worsley when the opportunity arose. Worsley, an earl, is used to saying what he wants and having people follow through. He rarely stops to think about the effect of his words.
 
I liked both Worsley and Dora though they also frequently frustrated me. Worsley doesn't relate well to people. He doesn't understand them and how they say one thing and do another. He'd much rather spend time with his horses. He's well aware of his failings but has never tried very hard to overcome them. However, it does affect Worsley's confidence in himself when dealing with women, and he spends a lot of time castigating himself for his words and actions.
 
Dora has zero confidence in herself as a woman. I blame this entirely on her father. She is taller than the average woman, and her father constantly told her that she wouldn't appeal to many men. He also told her to give up any ideas of marriage until all of her siblings were settled as they were her responsibility. She spends most of her time convincing herself that Worsley doesn't really want her.
 
I enjoyed most of their interactions. Both Worsley and Dora believe in honest speech, so they don't play silly games with each other. Unfortunately, Worsley is so verbally awkward that he seems to make matters worse every time he opens his mouth. He wants Dora to know how much he likes and admires her, but he frequently ends up insulting her instead. Meanwhile, because she refuses to believe that he could want her, Dora hesitates to make her feelings known. On those rare occasions she starts to feel something happens (usually Worsley putting his foot in his mouth) that makes her pull back again.
 
Things got a little better when Dora brought her siblings to live with her. Working together to deal with the children forced Dora and Worsley to talk to each other. When he instigated a move to another property, Worsley hoped that Dora would begin to feel more like his countess. I loved seeing Dora finally overcome some of her reticence and let him know that she wanted to be a real wife to him. At last, they seemed to be getting past some of their communication issues. I laughed out loud at the one scene where Worsley played the neglected lover.
 
Not everything is smooth-sailing, however. Gregory and his new wife have been living at this estate since their elopement. Pansy is a spoiled brat and managed to alienate most of the estate staff with her attitude. She is also a master of snide little digs that appear intent on making things difficult between Dora and Worsley. Matters come to a head when she does something that endangers Dora's life, and the kids witness it. It's an eye-opener for Worsley as he realizes his feelings for Dora, and I loved seeing him face her with those feelings. Dora's happiness, as she finally believed, was terrific. I loved when she told him: "Stop talking. You know that is not where you excel. Show me how you feel, instead. You are very good at that." I liked the solution they came up with for Gregory (who I did like) and Pansy (who I'm still on the fence about).