The Bartender's Secret - Caro Carson (HSE #2748 - Feb 2020)

Series: Masterson, Texas (Book 1)

Her perfect man is hiding an imperfect past
 
When street smart meets book smart…
 
Connor McClaine notices Delphinia Ray the first time she walks into his bar. Quiet, sheltered, educated, the shy Shakespeare professor is way out of his league. But "whoever loved that loved not at first sight?" The rough-edged bar owner tries to push her away, convinced she can't handle the harsh truth about his past. Sweet Delphinia, however, has gotten under his skin, daring him to face his demons and defy what he believes is his fate.
 
I loved this book. I started reading it during the afternoon and, except for stopping for dinner, didn't quit reading until I finished it late last night. As a former English major, I loved the English professor heroine and the Shakespeare themes that ran throughout. It was easy to see myself in "Dr. Dee's" students. My college was also a small one located in a small town, so I could relate to the setting also.
 
I loved the two main characters, Dr. Delphinia Ray and Connor McClaine. Delphinia is a bit shy when outside her comfort zone. She lives with her parents, high-level faculty members, who love her but don't listen to her. She dates a rather bland law professor that her parents approve of but yearns for the connection and passion she sees in the romances she reads. Delphinia loves her work but sometimes feels constrained by outside expectations. She's not satisfied with her life, but not quite sure how to fix it.
 
Connor made my heart ache. When he was seventeen, he made the mistake of getting in a car with some friends, not knowing the vehicle was stolen. As a result, he spent six months in prison and gained the title of ex-con for the rest of his life. His experiences in jail profoundly affected him, as did the days immediately after his release. His encounter with Seamus Murphy behind The Tipsy Musketeer pub changed his life. But try as he might, Murphy could not get Connor to see past his ex-con label to the good man he'd become. Connor believes that his past means nobody would want a relationship with him. I loved seeing Connor in his element at the bar, taking care of people. There were some fantastic scenes where his overall protectiveness and love of people shine.
 
I loved watching the relationship develop between Delphinia and Connor. She intrigued him from the moment she walked into the bar, and he got her attention when she saw him carry a keg in from the storeroom. It made me smile when their eyes met during the Shakespeare presentations. I laughed out loud when Connor got jealous over his employee's attempts to flirt with Delphinia, then chew him out for putting his professor in an awkward position. I also ached for him because he let his insecurity over his past stop him from following through on his interest and the interest he saw in her eyes. I felt terrible for Delphinia because she was interested, but her self-confidence was so low she didn't believe he'd be interested in her. Fortunately, it didn't stop her from returning to the bar as often as possible.
 
It doesn't take long before Delphinia compares the way Connor makes her feel to how her lawyer boyfriend, Vincent, makes her feel. Early in the book, a very prophetic scene takes place when she's late for a function they were to attend together. But the more she tries to get closer to Connor, the more he pulls away, trying to protect himself from her reaction if she knew his past. I loved how he saved her after that horrible dinner with Vincent and his friends, followed by the bridge meeting at the bar. The rooftop scene where he told Delphinia about his past broke my heart as he waited for her to reject him. I loved her reaction and the effect it had on him, but he still pushed her away. But when he witnesses Vincent's abusive behavior, Connor forgets everything in his determination to protect her. That scene, and the overwhelming support that Connor received, made an incredibly emotional ending.
 
The secondary characters, good and bad, made the story even richer. Kristopher's youthful attempts to flirt with Delphinia were both painful and funny, and his respect for Connor made him sit up and take notice when reprimanded. I laughed at Bridget's little sister-like attitude toward Connor, which went along with his brotherly treatment of her. I adored Murphy from the moment he took Connor in to his attempts to get through his stubborn head. I loved how he knew Connor well enough to figure out that he had "woman troubles."
 
On the other side, Delphinia's parents made me so mad at the way they treated her. They ignored her when she tried to tell them how she felt and behaved like she was too naïve to be on her own. Two things made me especially angry: how they pushed her at Vincent and when her father took her off the campus apartment list. They sure had their eyes opened at the end. Then there was Vincent. He gave me the creeps the first time I saw him with Delphinia, and it only got worse. His attitude about Connor and his attempts to discredit him over the pedestrian bridge made me mad. Finally, the new sheriff epitomized everything that gives law enforcement a bad name.
 
This is one book that I could easily reread many times.

From the Shadows - B. J. Daniels (HQN - Mar 2021)

Series: Buckhorn, Montana (Book 2)

Dark secrets always come to light…
 
Some people might dream of inheriting a hotel somewhere as picturesque as Buckhorn, Montana. To Casey Crenshaw, though, her late grandmother's property is a white elephant to be sold as quickly as possible. The place has been boarded up for years, and locals have murmured about ghost sightings ever since a young woman was murdered there. But it's not the imaginary ghosts that worry Casey -- it's the flesh-and-blood man who's throwing a wrench into all her plans.
 
Finn James intends to find out what really happened at the hotel years ago. Not even the capable, highly independent redhead who owns it will stop him. But though the quest draws Finn and Casey together, digging into the past is dangerous, especially when there are others determined to keep the truth hidden -- by any means necessary…
 
Good book with gripping suspense and a bit of romance. Casey's grandmother recently passed away, leaving the old Crenshaw hotel to Casey. An elegant old hotel in its heyday, hosting the rich and famous, it has been boarded up since her grandmother became ill. Casey wants nothing more than to sell it as soon as she can and leave Buckhorn in her past. She spent her summers there with her grandmother and worked in the hotel when she was old enough. That all came to an end when she was sixteen and a young woman was murdered. Rumors of ghosts abound, but it's the all-too-human man who has been living in the hotel who has her attention now.
 
Finn James is a multibillionaire who, at loose ends after selling his company, arrived at the Crenshaw looking for answers about what happened to a former girlfriend. He searched the hotel from top to bottom, looking for clues, but turned up very little. Two things Finn found were Anna Crenshaw's journals and a notebook with one very disturbing entry. He found Anna's journals intriguing, especially the parts about Casey.
 
I loved the first meeting between Finn and Casey. While he expected her arrival, she had no clue that he was there. Sparks flew between them (the shower scene was terrific), but Casey was wary of trusting him. Casey received quite a shock when he showed her the invitation he got inviting him to a reunion of people who knew Megan, the murdered woman. That shock was compounded when the other staff members that summer also arrived, having received the same invitation. Finn immediately suspects that someone in the group has a hidden agenda and worries about Casey's safety. I enjoyed seeing them grow closer as they worked together. After their slightly rough beginning, it didn't take long for them to trust each other. I liked how Anna's journals gave Finn insight into Casey and what she'd been through. I loved his protectiveness and how it led to helping out over the sale of the hotel and land. Casey carries some guilt over something she did that summer, and it weighs on her until she tells Finn about it. I liked how their growing feelings for each other helped them heal and move on from the past. I loved the ending and the epilogue.
 
As the weekend progresses, revelations about Megan come out. Each staff member reveals some episode that makes them suspects in her murder. Everyone suspects everyone else, and it only gets worse when two people disappear. Ghostly appearances and strange noises add to the tension. That tension ramps up when Finn and Casey make a grisly discovery behind a locked door. An unexpected twist lands Casey in extreme danger, and I was on the edge of my seat until she was out and safe. But the threat isn't over yet, as Megan's killer remains unidentified. But with new information, it doesn't take long to figure it out.  The conclusion was a bit of a surprise but quite satisfactory. 

Sunset on Moonlight Beach - Sheila Roberts (Mira - May 2021)

Series: Moonlight Harbor (Book 5)

Jenna Jones has been standing on the shore of the Sea of Love for too long. Even with two good men interested in her, she's been afraid to wade in. According to her best friend, Courtney, she should. The water's fine. Life is great! Practically perfect, if you don't count Courtney's problems with her cranky ex-boss. Maybe Courtney's right. It's time to dive in.
 
When tragedy strikes, everything changes and Jenna's more confused than ever. But this fresh heartache might help her figure out at last who she can turn to when times get tough.
 
Good story of love, friendship, family, and loss. The book takes place in Moonlight Harbor, a small beach town in Washington, full of ordinary people with real lives. This one centers mainly around Jenna Jones, one of the characters in the previous book (Beachside Beginnings), though her family and friends also have prominent roles.
 
After divorcing her husband, Jenna moved to Moonlight Harbor and took over managing her elderly great-aunt's Driftwood Inn. She poured heart and soul into bringing the vintage motel back to life, and it is doing quite well. Besides the motel, Jenna fills her time with her massage therapy business, raising her teenage daughter, and watching out for Aunt Edie. As if she weren't busy enough, Jenna also ran for and won a seat on the town council. There are only two real downsides in her life: the alimony she's stuck paying her ex-husband for another year and trying to make up her mind about the two men in her life, Brody and Seth.
 
Brody is the local real estate agent, handsome, charming, wealthy, and determined in his pursuit of Jenna. He's a nice guy, sensitive to Jenna's wariness about getting involved, and willing to be patient as she works through her fears. Seth is an ex-con who works as a handyman. He's a loner who avoids getting close to others, but he's there when Jenna needs him. Jenna spends most of the book arguing with herself about which man before making a decision. But what happens when she receives a devastating blow that upends her life again? From the outside looking in, I easily guessed why it happened that way, but Jenna was left in the dark. It all became clear at the end, but it changed her relationships with both men.
 
The book takes place over a year, and we get a good look at Jenna's life and the lives of her friends and family. Besides her man troubles, Jenna must also deal with her town council duties, including a problem with an exploding deer population. She gets accosted by people on both sides of the issue, and finding a workable solution is a challenge. I liked getting to know Jenna's family. Aunt Edie may be slowing down, but she's sharp as a tack. She has plenty of advice to give whether the recipients want it or not, but she also has a big heart. I loved the scenes where she cooks for everyone. Jenna's mother, Melody, is at a crossroads. The grocery store she works at was sold, so she's out of a job. I loved seeing her gather her courage and move from the house she's lived in for so long to Moonlight Harbor, where she's close to her family. She also faces the question of whether she's ready for a new romance after so many years as a widow. Jenna's sister, Celeste, wants to move down to be with the rest of her family but has trouble convincing her husband to take that step. There are a few scenes where she comes across as somewhat selfish but shows some growth by the end.
 
Jenna's friend, Courtney, also faces some significant changes in her life. She quit her job with her cranky boutique owner boss to concentrate on designing her own clothes. When that boutique goes up for sale, she dreams of buying it, but there are obstacles. I liked how her friends rallied around her when an unexpected twist put it within reach. She also has her handsome firefighter boyfriend in her life and a mother dropping heavy-handed hints about marriage and grandbabies. I liked Jonas a lot and had fun with the surprise he had for Courtney.
 
An unexpected loss devastates Jenna's family but hits her especially hard. A perceived betrayal complicates her grief and leaves Jenna questioning her judgment. I ached for her as her dreams for the future fell apart. There were times when I wanted to shake her for her lack of trust, but it also opened her eyes to feelings she'd ignored before. I wasn't surprised by either twist at the end of the book though I liked how they happened.
 
I've read the book before this, which I enjoyed. This one reminded me I want to read the others in the series. 

You Again - JoAnn Ross (Castlelough Publishing - Oct 2014)

Series: Shelter Bay (Book 8)

A book nerd, a brainiac science guy, and a misplaced killer whale...  
 
Meghann Quinn wasn't always a hugely successful author. Adam Wayne wasn't always a marine biologist studying whales. Back in high school in Shelter Bay, Oregon, she was the shy book nerd helping the brainiac science guy pass English. Meghann had no idea Adam would turn into such a hottie. Adam has no idea their once-upon-a-time sweet summer romance inspired Meghann's popular teen novels.  
 
Two shy geeks didn't have the courage to share their true feelings back then. But now that Meghann's back in town, they're pondering life's important questions. Such as, will Adam ask her to the Snow Ball? And what are they going to do about the lost Orca who shows up on Christmas Eve? And can two nerds get past their initial insecurity to take a second chance on a once-in-a-lifetime love?
 
Good second chance love story. Meghann, a former foster child and shy book nerd became a very successful author of YA stories and now lives in New York City. Adam, the school science geek, went on to become a marine biologist studying whales in Shelter Cove. During high school, Meghann tutored the punctuation-challenged Adam in English. The two quickly became friends with mutual crushes they were too shy to share. One sweet kiss shared lingered in their memories after they went their separate ways.
 
Years later, Meghann meets with her editor after turning in her latest book and is given an email from her old friend Adam. Back in Shelter Bay, he's raising funds for a hands-on children's science museum and asks if Meghann would be willing to donate some of her books for their auction. Meghann will gladly do more than that.
 
I loved the rekindling of Meghann and Adam's relationship. It started with the influx of memories aroused by Adam's email. I loved her call to Adam, offering to come to Shelter Cove and with multiple ideas of how she can help. I loved Adam's reaction, as he becomes nearly speechless at the thought of seeing Meghann again. The sparks flew from the moment they saw each other again, and they connected as if they'd never been apart. I loved the scene when he dropped her off at her hotel room, with their slightly awkward conversation, both trying to find a way to let the other know of their interest. Adam was sweet with his goodbye, then rapid return because he "forgot something" - the sizzling kiss he then laid on Meghann before leaving again.
 
I loved Meghann's enthusiastic participation in Adam's whale search and how it allowed them to spend more time together. I liked how easily they shared their pasts, including Meghann's brief marriage. I loved Adam's protectiveness as he listened to her story. I wasn't surprised that the sparks between them burst into flame so quickly or that they gave into them. I loved the scene after the orca reunion as Adam and Meghann planned their future.
 
I was fascinated by the whale theme running through this book. Information from how they communicate to their family/pod life to their connection to Native American practices was woven seamlessly into the story. I rooted for the lost Orca to find his way to his family and loved seeing the whole town get involved. The method Adam used was intriguing, and I enjoyed watching it play out to its successful conclusion.
 
As a long-time fan of the Shelter Bay series, I loved seeing characters from the earlier books. I loved the mention of the elder Douchetts, in their eighties and still holding hands. I loved seeing Adam's lunch with Sax (The Homecoming) and Dillon (Sea Glass Winter) as they gave him a hard time about Meghann's visit. Others also made appearances or were mentioned, reminding me of the fun I had reading their books. I still have some JoAnn Ross books on my TBR list and will have to move them further up the list.

A Marriage of Equals - Elizabeth Rolls (HH #1573 - May 2021)

Risking everything…

For love!
 
Having struggled so hard to become a successful business owner, Jamaica-born Psyché Winthrop-Abeni has no interest in relinquishing her freedom or property to a husband. But when gentleman Will Barclay comes to her aid, their intense connection tempts her into a thrillingly passionate temporary affair! It's the perfect arrangement…until Will feels honor-bound to propose. His offer is one she's never dared to dream of, but can she trust Will enough to take the risk?
 
Fantastic book and an intriguing change from the usual Regency aristocratic balls and house parties. This is the story of Psyché, a Black coffee shop owner from Jamaica, and Will, the Marquess of Huntercombe's private secretary. They meet when thrown together to help a young woman escape a forced marriage. Their immediate connection forms the basis for an unexpected relationship.
 
I loved Psyché. Born into slavery, she came to England at the age of eleven, brought by her white father. He died, and she was raised by her great-uncle, Viscount Staverton, along with her white cousin, Hetty. Though treated as a daughter by her great-uncle, Psyché's treatment by society and even some family members was decidedly unequal. By the time she was an adult, Psyché was determined to create her own place in the world. Her coffee shop, The Phoenix Rising, does precisely that. Flashbacks to Psyché's life, both in Jamaica and her early years in England, vividly illustrate the obstacles she faces and how she overcomes them.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Will and Psyché. From the moment they met, Will saw Psyché as a strong, independent, and kind woman. Their teamwork in helping young Catherine was outstanding. I laughed out loud at Will's interpretation of causing a "distraction" while Psyché hid Catherine and how it led to them spending even more time together. I loved the slow growth of their feelings, from friends to lovers. While the physical expression of those feelings was great, I especially enjoyed the look at their ordinary everyday interactions of washing dishes, talking, and just being together while involved in their own activities.
 
It isn't long before Will wants more, but convincing Psyché is an uphill battle. Though she knows marriage is different than being enslaved, Psyché's reluctance to give a man power over her freedom and independence is believable. I loved Will's patience and understanding as he works to prove she can trust him. His visit to Psyché's great-uncle was terrific and demonstrated how well both men knew her. There was a short rough patch when Will told Psyché why he is estranged from his family, but they talked it through like adults. I loved how everything came together for them at the end.
 
There was intense action at a few places in the book. In the beginning, hiding Catherine creates complications and danger for Psyché. There is an unexpected link between Catherine and Psyché that adds to Psyché's determination to keep the girl safe. When the Bow Street Runners get involved in the search, a complex plan is devised and successfully carried out. After a deeply moving scene where Psyché and Hetty reunite at their great-uncle's deathbed, Psyché faces her father's brother Lucian, who has always resented her. In a nail-biting turn of events, Lucian attempts to kidnap Psyché with the intent of sending her to Africa and back to slavery. He received quite a shock when Psyché resisted, and I loved seeing her take him down. Will's arrival was perfectly timed, and the icing on the cake. I liked the epilogue and its wrap-up of the events of the book.
 
I liked how Psyché's challenges because of her race were deftly woven throughout the book. From the little digs to the kidnapping attempt, each occurrence was believable. Psyché's flashbacks were especially vivid as they portrayed critical moments in her life. I enjoyed the author's note on her inspiration for Psyché's character. 

 

Runaway Groom - Lynne Marshall (HSE #2827 - Apr 2021)

Series: Fortunes of Texas: The Hotel Fortune (Book 4)

From "I don't" to…" I might?"
 
When Mark Mendoza discovers his fiancée cheating on him on their wedding day, he hightails it out of town. Megan Fortune is there to pick up the pieces -- and to act as his faux girlfriend when his ex shows up. Mark swears he will never get involved again. Megan doesn't want to be a "rebound" fling. But they find each other irresistible. What's a fake couple to do?
 
Good book. The book opens the night before Mark's wedding, as he plays poker with some of his brothers. They give him a hard time because he isn't marrying for love. Deeply affected by his parents' volatile marriage, he went about his a different way. Once he decided to marry, he looked for a woman with similar interests and desires. Love wasn't part of the process; it was more of a business contract. While he doesn't precisely have second thoughts, he intends to speak with Brianna before the wedding.
 
The next thing we see, Mark is driving to Rambling Rose, Texas, having left his bride at the altar. He's a hot mess, devastated by Brianna's betrayal and mourning the loss of his dreams. He shows up at the restaurant where his brother's fiancée works, and she asks her sister Megan to watch over him until Rodrigo can come to get him. Megan does a good job of distracting him, and it's easy to sense a connection between them. The two enjoy each other's company over the next couple of days as Mark tries to regain his balance. But when Brianna shows up wanting to fix things, Mark pretends that he and Megan are together now - and Megan plays along.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Mark and Megan. They agreed on a fake romance while Brianna is in town to emphasize that Mark has no intention of getting back together. The way he feels, he will never get involved again. Megan agrees to be friends as they carry out their plan. Over the next two weeks, they spend a lot of time together and discover that they have many things in common. There are some terrific scenes of them together, from hiking to swimming to dancing. They engage in their public displays of affection when Brianna is around and quickly find that those displays can get out of control.
 
I liked Mark. He is a nice guy who allowed his view of his parents' marriage to warp his thinking. While he didn't deserve what happened to him, he was very lucky. The more time he spent with Megan, the more he realized what a close call he'd had. He develops feelings for Megan, but he no longer trusts his judgment, so he tries to ignore them. And when the attraction between them bursts into flame, he can't resist it. Unfortunately, he freaks out the next morning, pulls away, and runs.
 
I liked Megan, too. As the numbers person in her family, she tends to fall more on the practical side of the issues. As the family "geek," I got the feeling she wasn't always comfortable in social situations, leaving her with some self-confidence issues. She's immediately at ease with Mark, and I enjoyed seeing him bring her out of her shell a little bit. She catches on quickly to her growing feelings for Mark and can't help dreaming a little of what could be. I ached for her the morning after as she watched those dreams crash and burn. Her understanding of his issues impressed me but frustrated me too.
 
I felt that Mark earned every bit of his misery after he returned home. While he eventually started to dig himself out of his hole, it took some brotherly butt-kicking to move matters along. Meanwhile, back in Rambling Rose, Megan's sisters provide lots of support and shoulders to cry on. Both Mark and Megan wonder how they will get through Ashley and Rodrigo's wedding, not realizing that their siblings teamed up to bring the wayward lovers back together. I loved the whole wedding weekend and seeing all of the machinations that happened. The ending was terrific.
 
The book also included a continuation of the series arc about the problems plaguing the Hotel Fortune. In this book, the reservations system either has glitches or hacking, which creates unhappy guests. I have my suspicions on who is behind it, and I look forward to seeing if I am right.

An Earl, the Girl, and a Toddler - Vanessa Riley (Zebra - May 2021)

Series: Rogues and Remarkable Women (Book 2)

Masterminded by the ton's most clever countess, the secret society The Widow's Grace helps ill-treated widows regain their reputations, their families, and even find true love again--or perhaps for the very first time...
 
Surviving a shipwreck en route to London from Jamaica was just the start of Jemina St. Maur's nightmare. Suffering from amnesia, she was separated from anyone who might know her and imprisoned in Bedlam. She was freed only because barrister Daniel Thackery, Lord Ashbrook, was convinced to betray the one thing he holds dear: the law. Desperate to unearth her true identity, Jemina's only option is to work outside the law--which means staying steps ahead of the formidable Daniel, no matter how strongly she is drawn to him...
 
Married only by proxy, now widowed by shipwreck, Daniel is determined to protect his little stepdaughter, Hope, from his family's scandalous reputation. That's why he has dedicated himself not just to the law, but to remaining as proper and upstanding--and boring--as can be. But the closer he becomes to the mysterious, alluring Jemina, the more Daniel is tempted to break the very rules to which he's dedicated his life. As ruthless adversaries close in, will the truth require him and Jemina to sacrifice their one chance at happiness?
 
Good book. It is unusual for a romance of the Regency period to have such a diversity of characters. It tackles complex subjects such as racism, mental health, and women's rights while retaining the hopefulness of a romance.
 
The book opened in 1812 with Jemina, one of two survivors of a shipwreck, suffering from amnesia brought on by the trauma and threatened with commitment to Bedlam if she can't confirm her identity. At the same time, Daniel arrives at the port expecting to greet the woman he married by proxy, only to discover she died in the wreck. The only other survivor is a small Black child, whom the attending officers give to Daniel, the only Black man there. Daniel assumes the girl was his wife's and takes her home to raise as his own. Though Daniel is a barrister devoted to the law, he bends some rules to ensure that little Hope remains with him.
 
Two years later, Jemina escaped Bedlam with the help of The Widow's Grace and their lawyer, Daniel. Now she works with the group to help other widows escape the clutches of unscrupulous family members and restore their freedom. Her lack of memory still haunts Jemina, and she will do anything to unearth her identity.
 
As a barrister, Daniel works with his aunt, Lady Shrewesbury, to help the widows she rescues. Careful not to inquire too deeply into how she obtains her "evidence," Daniel unsuccessfully tries to get her to give up her crusade. He frequently finds himself butting heads with Jemina, one of his aunt's best agents.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Jemina and Daniel. The sparks that fly between them aren't all based on antagonism, but each has reasons to ignore them. Jemina won't get involved with anyone while not knowing her past. Daniel protects Hope by being as proper and upstanding as possible. But things between them become more complicated when Jemina stumbles across some information that indicates Daniel knows more about her past than he lets on. Jemina's search for the truth runs up against Daniel's need to protect his secrets.
 
I liked their back-and-forth banter as each tries to get the upper hand in their battle for information. The more time they spend together, the hotter the sparks between them grow. But Daniel has made some enemies determined to bring him down. When those enemies attempt to set him up, Jemina comes to his rescue. I ached for Daniel because if they succeed, he could lose everything he's worked for. The rescue scene had me laughing out loud as Jemina dealt with an intoxicated and uncooperative Daniel. Extreme measures became necessary, followed by a hilarious extraction.
 
All of these events led up to Daniel proposing marriage to Jemina. Neither one has yet admitted their feelings for the other, but they simmer under the surface. Little Hope takes to Jemina as soon as they meet, stirring up memories of another child in Jemina's mind. Just when their relationship shows promise, Daniel's secret comes out, destroying Jemina's trust in him. While she sets out on her own to look for the truth of her past, Daniel finally realizes what he must do. I liked seeing him finally come clean, and by doing that, discover an unexpected link between Jemina and Hope. All that is left is to unravel the rest of Jemina's story. I loved seeing the two of them confront the one responsible for so much trouble.
 
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I learned some things I didn't know, helped along by the author's notes in the back of the book. My only complaint was that the book seemed to drag at times, though I can't pinpoint why. It won't stop me from going back and reading the first in the series.

Summer Stalker - Nicole Helm (HI #1998 - May 2021)

Series: North Star (Book 1)

Someone's watching them.
 
Someone they'd never suspect.
 
Reece Montgomery's on an undercover mission to learn what unsuspecting B and B owner Lianna Kade knows about her husband's murder. However, the workaholic North Star agent finds himself in serious danger, not the least of which is his unprofessional need to protect Lianna and her son, Henry. When the fearless widow proposes an ultra-risky plan to lure a killer, it will test Reece's resolve not to fall for Lianna and her fatherless child.
 
Good book. The suspense kept me turning the pages, and the romance built nicely through the story. After her husband's murder, Lianna moved to Wyoming to take over her grandparents' bed-and-breakfast. She needed to get as far away as possible from the agencies' constant questions about what she knew of Todd's activities. She lives in a continual state of anxiety, worrying that someone will come after her and her son, Henry.
 
Reece works for North Star, an agency hired to find out what Lianna knows about her husband's murder. After seven years with the agency, he ranks as one of their top agents. He poses as a nature photographer and stays at her B & B as a guest, hoping to uncover some information.
 
I enjoyed the combination of suspense and romance. Neither Lianna nor Reece expected the connection they felt when he first arrived. Lianna no longer trusts her judgment and is wary of the feelings Reece stirs in her. Reece, who had a loveless childhood, doesn't know what he's feeling, but he doesn't like it. The inner turmoil is a distraction he doesn't need. A need to protect Lianna and Henry rather than just uncover information complicates matters even further.
 
It doesn't take long for Reece to discover that someone bugged the inn and is monitoring Lianna's life. The question is who, and for what purpose? A last-minute reservation sparks Reece's suspicions, and he breaks cover to warn Lianna of the probable danger. Furious at being deceived again, Lianna refuses to believe Reece and orders him to leave. His protectiveness won't let him go far, and the next morning he takes extreme measures to remove her and Henry from harm's way, taking them to North Star headquarters.
 
Lianna impressed me with her refusal to just sit back and be protected. I loved how she came up with a plan to draw the bad guys out. I ached for Reece, who was so discombobulated by his feelings for Lianna that he didn't know which way was up. I had to laugh at his coworkers' astonishment at his emotional reactions to her plan. Lianna had already begun to suspect her feelings for Reece and watched as he struggled with his. I loved watching her realize that he had no idea what those feelings were or how to put them into words.
 
I was on the edge of my seat as Lianna and Reece returned to the inn to put their plan into motion. An unexpected visitor the following day immediately roused Reece's suspicions, though Lianna took a little longer. She got the picture when her visitor showed an inordinate interest in Henry. Meanwhile, Reece faced trouble of his own, leaving him unable to help Lianna. There were some intense moments as Lianna escaped one hazard only to run headlong into another. I loved Lianna's efforts to save herself, which paired with Reece's timely arrival freed her, but left Reece fighting for his life.
 
The scenes at the hospital were heartwrenching. Being inside Reece's head while he battled his injuries and seeing what he wants more than anything else was an emotional experience. His conversation with his boss held no surprises. Even better was his talk with Lianna. The epilogue was wonderful. I loved that the people of North Star are still part of Reece's life, though in a different way.
 
Henry was my favorite secondary character. I loved how he took to Reece right away and pulled him into his circle of people he loves. His hero-worship of Reece was sweet, and so was his effect on Reece. Henry is protective of his mother, which showed in his dilemma at the end of the book. I also liked Reece's coworkers and can't wait to read their stories. 

Heiress in Red Silk - Madeline Hunter (Zebra - May 2021)

Series: Duke's Heiresses (Book 2)

In one life-changing windfall, Rosamund Jameson goes from struggling shopkeeper to heiress -- and co-owner of a new business. Not only will her sudden fortune allow her to move her millinery shop to fashionable London, but Rosamund will be able to provide her younger sister with a proper entry into society. The only hitch for resourceful Rosamund is her arrogant, infuriatingly handsome business partner...
 
Kevin Radnor is shocked that his late uncle, the Duke of Hollinburgh, bequeathed half his company to a total stranger -- worse, a beguiling beauty who can only hinder his enterprise. But Rosamund insists on an active, equal partnership, so Kevin embarks on a plan: a seduction that will lead to a marriage of convenience, giving Rosamund the social status she needs, and guaranteeing him the silent partner he desires. Yet as this charismatic gentleman sets his flirtation in motion, he begins to wonder who is seducing whom -- and if he can learn to share himself body and mind, without losing his heart...
 
Good book, and one that is very different than most historical romances. The Duke's Heiresses series is about three ordinary women whose lives are changed by unexpected bequests from a duke. Each woman deals with suspicious, angry, and disappointed relatives of the duke while making the best of their new circumstances.
 
In this book, Rosamund overcame many challenges to become a successful milliner. As the daughter of a tenant farmer left homeless after his death, she entered service as a housemaid. Rosamund fell in love and was seduced by the son of the house and booted out when his parents discovered the affair. The only employment she could find was as a maid at a London brothel, where a kindness to one of the working girls earned her the money to start her hat shop.
 
I liked Rosamund. She is intelligent, practical, and strong-willed. After learning of her good fortune, she took the time to think through her options and make plans. I liked that Minerva, from the first book (Heiress for Hire), befriended her and helped her through the early days of her inheritance. The one aspect she isn't quite sure of is the half-interest in a business she knows nothing about. Her co-owner is intense, rude, and disturbingly handsome.
 
Kevin is a brilliant inventor but socially inept. He says what he thinks without trying to be polite about it. Kevin was horrified when his uncle bequeathed his share of Kevin's business to an unknown woman. During the year it took to track Rosamund down, Kevin could not move forward with his invention. Now he plans to get her to sign her rights over to him, protecting himself and his creation from any unwanted interference. Unfortunately for him, his plans don't work out quite as he intended.
 
Kevin and Rosamund get off to a rough start. The first thing he does upon meeting her is shove papers at her giving him control of her half of the company. He is baffled when she refuses to sign them. It's his invention, and he should be able to do things his way. Rosamund intends to look after her interests, and she doesn't believe that Kevin knows how to run a successful business.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Kevin and Rosamund. It was a slow one, going from enemies to friends to lovers. Once Kevin realized that Rosamund was serious about being involved in the business, he knew he must rethink his actions. As intense and determined as he was, he was also an honorable man who refrained from attempting to intimidate or browbeat Rosamund into doing things his way. Instead, he took the time to get to know her and help her settle in and find ways to work together. Kevin prides himself on his focus never having been compromised by a woman but soon finds that focus splintered by Rosamund's proximity. He blames it on lust, admiration, nearness - anything but growing feelings for her.
 
Rosamund ignores the sparks between them, as she has plans of her own. Now that she has money and improved circumstances, she wants to find her first love and show him that they can be together now. I ached for her when she saw him and discovered that her dream man possessed feet of clay and a cruel heart. Her heartbreak was evident, as was her disillusionment. I liked how Kevin offered comfort and sympathy and reined in his desire for her. Rosamund's pragmatic nature enables her to put it behind her quickly, and that same nature encourages her to give in to her desire for Kevin.
 
Working together to move Kevin's invention forward created some interesting situations. As a successful businesswoman in her own right, Rosamund has ideas about the next steps to take. Unfortunately, Kevin's extreme paranoia about protecting his invention causes him to refuse all of her ideas, usually quite rudely. I loved that she doesn't back down and finds ways to make him see reason. His fears of losing control of his company eventually lead him to propose a marriage of convenience to Rosamund. Once again, their pragmatic natures show themselves as they discuss the various pros and cons of marrying without mentioning feelings.
 
Not long into their marriage, Rosamund's proactive steps set off Kevin's anger yet again. This time, the accusations he flings at her, and his cruel comments strike deep at her insecurities. I ached for Rosamund as she fled her heartbreak. It takes a few days for Kevin to calm down and realize his mistakes. I liked seeing him go after her but felt that more groveling was in order before she should forgive him.
 
The Radnor family dynamics created some awkward situations. The late duke's decision to change his will left most of his family with shattered expectations, and they weren't happy about it. Kevin's Aunt Agnes is very vocal with her fury while others settle for sly remarks and innuendos. I liked how Rosamund handled herself at the family dinner - polite but not intimidated. Kevin faced a much angrier group when they discovered his plans to marry Rosamund. I loved watching him stand up to them all despite some personal consequences. There are still questions about the death of the late duke that will hopefully be addressed in the final book.

A Family Made in Rome - Annie O'Neil (HMED #1171 - May 2021)

 

Series: Double Miracle at St. Nicolino's Hospital (Book 1)

Can one last night in New York
 
Lead to a new beginning in Rome?
 
When Leon Cassanetti is called on to perform pioneering surgery on conjoined twins, he knows who he wants by his side—his ex, Lizzy Beckley. Their history is complicated…but Lizzy is honored to join Leon in Rome to save these babies. Only first she must deliver a baby bombshell of her own to this career-driven bachelor!
 
I really enjoyed this book. Leon and Lizzy first met when they were interns in New York. There they were friendly competitors and later became lovers. Both focused mainly on their careers with no interest in a long-term relationship. They agreed that when their internships ended, Leon would return to Italy and Lizzy to Australia. Lizzy didn't count on falling in love with Leon. With no indication he felt the same, she took her broken heart home and channeled her pain into her work.
 
Years later, Leon and Lizzy met again at a conference in New York. To their surprise, the sparks between them burned just as hot as they used to. One night of passion, for old times' sake and closure, should have been the end of it. Then the little smiley face showed up on the pregnancy test. Ironically, Lizzy got a phone call from Leon shortly after that, asking her to come to Rome for three months. He wants her expertise in treating conjoined twins. There's no way she can say no to the opportunity, but the baby complicates matters.
 
I admired Lizzy. She remembers that Leon didn't want children or marriage, and she only wants him to be available when the child wants to know about its father. She doesn't expect anything else. I loved that she didn't beat around the bush or put off telling him, informing him almost as soon as she got off the plane. To say that Leon was stunned would be putting it mildly. He surprises himself and Lizzy by not only insisting on being part of the baby's life but proposing marriage. Lizzy refuses, of course, as she won't marry him without love. Leon insists on her staying at his home rather than a hotel, hoping to convince her over time.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Lizzy and Leon. Both of them have pasts that make them cautious. Leon's father left him and his mother when Leon was very young. His mother became bitter and taught Leon that love was trouble. Lizzy's mother loved her father obsessively, to the point he could do no wrong. She gave up everything to be what he wanted. Her father was very controlling, and nothing Lizzy did was ever good enough for him, so she is wary of men who "take charge." There are some instances where Leon and Lizzy butt heads, usually when she thinks he's overstepping, and she calls him out on it. I liked watching them spend time together, getting to know who they are now. I liked the scenes of Leon showing Lizzy around Rome and seeing both workaholics discover the benefits of having fun.
 
While Lizzy knew from the beginning that her feelings for Leon hadn't gone away, Leon took longer to admit to his. I enjoyed seeing his transformation from a committed bachelor to a man yearning for the family he didn't know he wanted. It wasn't an easy transition, and Leon fought hard at first. But once he hit that "aha" moment, he was all in. He just needed to convince Lizzy. It went pretty well until Lizzy misunderstood an overheard phone call and ran instead of confronting Leon about it. I loved his way of finding her and seeing Leon reveal his vulnerability. The ending was great, with one unexpected complication. I hope to see more of them in Giovanni and Autumn's story.
 
One of the other things I enjoyed about this book was the story of the twins and their parents. The details of the treatment and surgery fascinated me and kept my interest through those parts of the book. The intensity of Lizzy's surgery on baby Hope had me glued to the pages until it was done. I can't wait to read the rest of their story in the next book.

The Duchess War - Courtney Milan (Courtney Milan - Dec 2012)

Series: Brothers Sinister (Book 1)

Miss Minerva Lane is a quiet, bespectacled wallflower, and she wants to keep it that way. After all, the last time she was the center of attention, it ended badly—so badly that she changed her name to escape her scandalous past. Wallflowers may not be the prettiest of blooms, but at least they don't get trampled. So when a handsome duke comes to town, the last thing she wants is his attention. But that is precisely what she gets. Because Robert Blaisdell, the Duke of Clermont, is not fooled. When Minnie figures out what he's up to, he realizes there is more to her than her spectacles and her quiet ways. And he's determined to lay her every secret bare before she can discover his. But this time, one shy miss may prove to be more than his match…
 
Good book. I thought the beginning was a little bit slow, but it picked up quickly. The story's premise was interesting, if a bit unlikely, and ended up being a fun read.
 
Robert and Minnie first meet at a ball where he hid behind a curtain to avoid dealing with people. While he is there, Minnie comes looking for a place to escape her wannabe fiancé and ends up hiding behind the couch that's in front of his curtain. The subsequent conversation leaves Robert intrigued with her intelligence and fire.
 
Minnie is a young woman with a big secret. After an unusual childhood that ended in scandal and betrayal by her father, she changed her name and moved in with her aunts. Since that time, Minnie cultivated a persona of a quiet, meek, and mild wallflower, frequently compared to a mouse. Thanks to her past, she fears crowds and being the center of attention. She also craves love and a feeling of security. Minnie works quietly with others for better conditions for the poor. She was a chess prodigy as a child and is highly intelligent as an adult.
 
Robert is deeply ashamed of his father, the previous duke, and vows to be nothing like him. To that end, he came to Leicester to right a wrong done to some workers at a factory he owns. Robert also has a deeper purpose, one that employs an unexpected method of investigation.
 
As the story opens, a local law enforcement official confronts Minnie, accusing her of writing and distributing seditious flyers. These flyers encourage workers to strike, form unions, and do other anti-business/pro-worker activities. He informs her of his investigation of her and knows she is not who she claims to be. Minnie, terrified of being exposed, decides finding the actual author of the flyers will prove her innocence. It doesn't take her long to settle on Robert as the most likely suspect.
 
I loved Minnie's visit to Robert at his home. She laid out her suspicions and requested that he confess, thus taking the heat off her. Robert, of course, refuses her request, citing a lack of proof. He doesn't intend to quit until he reaches his goal. Minnie promises to get the evidence and that she won't hesitate to use it. Meanwhile, Robert vows to flirt with her and make her the center of attention. I love how she laughs at him and tells him no one will believe it. I loved the scene where she proved him right, her public mouse-like persona making a hash of his attempts to flirt with her.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Minnie and Robert. She intrigues him, and the more he gets to know her, the deeper his fascination goes. I liked how he found so many chances to spend time with Minnie, getting to know her, and enjoying getting past her mouse façade. There's a fun scene that takes place on the train from London to Leicester. Robert wants to spend the time talking to Minnie, but his cousin Sebastian and their friend Violet take over the conversation. Minnie is equally fascinated by Robert, but she sees no future in it with her past what it is.
 
As Robert continues his investigation, he unwittingly implicates Minnie in his latest flyer. Through a twisted series of events, the only way to save Minnie is for her to marry Robert. I liked their discussion of the practicalities, but both dropped the ball by not admitting their feelings. I loved their honeymoon to Paris and seeing them come together. But their honeymoon comes to an abrupt end when they receive a message that Robert's half-brother has been arrested and accused of writing those damning flyers. I ached for Robert, who had to decide whether to save his brother by betraying Minnie or protecting Minnie and allowing Oliver to suffer. The courtroom scene was intense and had me on the edge of my seat as it played out.
 
The ending surprised me with a couple of unexpected twists. I enjoyed the scene with the reporters, especially Robert's unswerving support for Minnie. I also liked the resolution of Robert's investigation.
 
One of the things I enjoyed most about this book was the look at the plight of workers in Victorian times. It's a subject not often seen in romance novels, and it made a nice change. I also found Robert's views on the aristocracy unexpected.
 
I liked getting to know Robert's half-brother, Oliver, a bit and learning a little of the complicated history of the two of them. Robert's cousin, Sebastian, was an interesting character with his flirtatious manner and high spirits. There was a great scene with the three men as Sebastian and Oliver have pre-wedding advice for Robert.
 
I can't wait to read the other two books in the series.

Nobody/The Shadow - Sarah M. Anderson (Sarah M. Anderson - Apr 2014)

Series: Men of the White Sandy (Book 3)

Nobody Bodine is a nobody who came from a nobody and will always be a nobody. He disappears into the shadows—no one sees him if he doesn’t want them to. He exists in neither the white man’s world nor the tribe’s, dispensing vigilante justice when he sees fit. There’s no other place for a man like him in this world. Until Melinda Mitchell shows up on the rez. From the first moment he lays eyes on her, he can tell there’s something different about her. For starters, she’s not afraid of him. She asks where his scars came from, and why he has so many. But more than that, she sees him. For the first time in his life, Nobody feels like a somebody in her eyes.
 
Melinda has come west to run the new day care on the White Sandy Reservation. She’s intrigued by this strange man and his tattered skin, and when she discovers that he’s a self-appointed guardian angel for the boy in her care, she realizes that there’s more to Nobody than meets the eyes. But how far will he go to keep the boy safe? And will she be able to draw him into the light?
 
Terrific book. It is the only one of the series I have read, and it left me wanting to read the others. It was an emotional book about a man who endured horrible things as a child and the effect on his life thereafter. It was also the story of the woman who saw past the scars to the man.
 
Melinda left Ohio after yet another failed relationship to join her sister at the White Sandy rez. She will run the new daycare center. The man who cleans the center and visits her sister and brother-in-law late at night intrigues her with his scars and haunted eyes.
 
Nobody was a hero who pulled at the heartstrings. Named Nobody by his mother, who told him he was "a nobody who came from nobody and would always be a nobody," he lives in the shadows and avoids contact with almost everyone. His history is heartbreaking, but it left him with a streak of protectiveness, especially toward children.
 
I loved the connection that formed between Melinda and Nobody from the moment they met. Nobody has an uncanny knack for melting into the shadows, and it's a rare person who can see him when he does. Melinda is one of those people, and it scares Nobody spitless. I loved watching her get to know him by slipping into his world. She understands him and what makes him the way he is, and she doesn't try to force him into her world. Instead, she accepts him in all of his solitary glory while ensuring he doesn't push her away. Nobody bought into the world's opinion that he's no good and doesn't understand what Melinda sees in him. His internal commentaries are both funny and heartbreaking as he tries to wrap his head around her interest.
 
It isn't long before their two worlds collide in the person of a young victim of the same kind of abuse Nobody suffered. Nobody protects young Jamie with his own form of justice, frequently taking the boy to his own home and giving him a safe space to recover. I loved the connection between the two of them. Jamie worships Nobody; his imitation of his hero is spot-on. He is also as protective of Nobody as Nobody is of him. When Melinda becomes aware of Jamie's situation, her reaction is to remove Jamie from his home ASAP. She receives an eye-opening education on what happens to Native children when they end up in foster care and struggles to find a compromise.
 
I loved the solution that Melinda and Nobody devised and that it had a good chance of working. Unfortunately, fate intervened before their plans could be fully executed. Melinda has the problem well in hand, but it requires Nobody's patience and cooperation. I ached for Nobody, whose worry for Jamie became so overwhelming that he did a very stupid thing. This left Melinda in an awkward position of having to find a way to fix the results of his actions and ensure that the solution is the one they want. I was quite impressed with Melinda as she went to bat for both Jamie and Nobody, though her methods for Nobody were very unorthodox. I ached for Nobody as he endured the consequences of his actions and worried that he'd also lost Melinda.
 
The ending brought tears to my eyes as Melinda waited and hoped for Nobody's return. I loved that she wasn't going to give him long to avoid her. I loved how, once again, she felt him before she saw him. Nobody broke my heart as he shared his fears and his feelings with her. "I've never loved anyone. I don't know how to love you. Will you show me how?" And Melinda says, "All I can ask is that you don't give up on us."  Nobody: "Us. Never had an us before." Sigh.

His to Protect - Sharon C. Cooper (HRS #2134 - Apr 2021)

She looked a criminal in the eye……
and now she's a target
 
When Connie Shaw witnesses a bank robbery gone horribly wrong, security specialist Trace Halstead makes himself her personal protection detail. Days and nights together make it impossible for Connie and Trace to resist the attraction burning between them. But Connie doesn't know which she fears more…the threat from the man who wants to end her life or the love of the man trying to save it.
 
This was my first book by this author but won't be the last. The suspense sucked me in from the beginning, while the romance was both sweet and steamy. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down.
 
Connie's job at Layton Executive Protection Agency keeps her busy and satisfied, while her social life is a disaster. Thanks to events from her parents' marriage and a romantic betrayal, Connie has some trust issues when it comes to men. Despite one incredible night with security specialist Trace Halstead, Connie refuses to enter into a relationship with him. She claims that she won't date anyone she works with, which puts Trace on her "no-fly" list.
 
Trace is one of the firm's top security specialists. As the story opens, Connie and her boss have to end his current assignment because their woman client makes inappropriate advances. Meanwhile, Trace can't forget his time with Connie. Though known as a ladies' man before that, since then, he quit going out with other women. Connie is it for him, and he won't give up on getting her to give him another chance.
 
The book gets off to a running start when a trip to the bank lands Connie in the middle of a bank robbery. To make matters worse, she made eye contact with one of the robbers and saw enough for the FBI to try to make a start at identifying him. When Trace finds out about it, he worries that the robbers could come after her and makes protecting her his mission. Being independent and stubborn, Connie doesn't want to believe that she's in danger but is shaken enough to welcome Trace's company that first night.
 
I loved Trace. He wants Connie but respects her decision about a relationship, so he does his best to keep things platonic. I liked how he took care of her, cooking for her, just hanging out with her, and being a friend. Connie is just as attracted to Trace but fears risking her heart again. It was fun to see them get to know each other better with things like Twenty Questions.
 
Meanwhile, the intensity of the suspense increases with possible sightings of the robber and the question of whether he knows who Connie is. An intense confrontation at a fashion show followed by her house's firebombing seems to indicate that he does. I was on the edge of my seat as Trace and Connie barely escaped. I enjoyed seeing Trace and his brother Langton work together to identify him before Trace and Connie headed off to a safe house.
 
I loved seeing Connie and Trace grow even closer as Connie relaxed her no dating rule. Their happiness despite the situation was fantastic, and Trace looked forward to the end of the case and moving forward with their relationship. Then Connie misunderstood something she overheard, bringing her old fears back to the surface, and accused Trace of being like her ex. I ached for Trace, who was hurt and angered by her lack of trust in him. I had to laugh when his friends staged an intervention, making it possible for him to be there when she identified the robber for the police. But just when they thought it was all over, an unexpected twist put Connie in danger all over again. I was glued to the pages until she was safe in Trace's arms, and they finally admitted their feelings for each other.

Rags-to-Riches Wife - Catherine Tinley (HH #1486 - Feb 2020)

Marrying for inheritance...
 
or love?
 
Lady's maid Jane Bailey's life is turned upside down by the arrival of wealthy gentleman Robert Kendal. Traveling together to claim her long-lost aristocratic grandfather's inheritance, they succumb to a mutual attraction. Yet Jane knows a maid should not hope to love a gentleman, even if she's suddenly wearing silk dresses and dining with the family. The will shockingly decrees Robert and Jane must marry, but will it ever be for more than convenience?
 
A thoroughly enjoyable Cinderella story. Jane is the daughter of a gentleman who was disowned by his father when he married a servant. Edward became a clerk, and they lived happily until he died when Jane was eight. With his death came a loss of income, so Jane and her mother became servants. Many years later, Mrs. Bailey achieved the post of housekeeper, and Jane became a lady's maid. She is happy with her place in the world when a stranger arrives with a message summoning her to meet her estranged grandfather, Mr. Millthorpe.
 
Robert and his widowed mother have lived with his great-uncle-by-marriage since he was eight. He has grown rather fond of the grouchy, domineering, and sometimes manipulative old man and handles much of the estate's business for him. He's not too happy to be sent on this extended trip to retrieve an unknown woman with no explanation of why.
 
I liked the protectiveness that Jane's employer felt for her and her desire to get to know Robert a little before helping him. I laughed a little at everything Lady Kingswood put him through before she agreed to let Jane leave with him.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Robert and Jane. It built slowly over the length of their journey and after they arrived at Beechmount Hall. Jane intrigues and attracts Robert from the start, but he is very cognizant of the difference in their stations. I loved seeing them get to know each other. Jane's intelligence delights Robert, and they while away the hours of travel talking about everything from politics to food to what life is like as a servant. There are some sweet scenes of Robert's gentlemanly behavior and growing feelings for Jane.
 
Jane's life takes an unexpected turn when she reaches her grandfather's home. Thrust into a situation where she's no longer the servant, but the served, she feels more than a little bit lost and out of her element. Her grandfather makes cryptic statements that do nothing to ease her discomfort, though he eventually loosens up. The scene involving her dress and her grandmother's portrait was especially moving. Meanwhile, his wife does everything she can to make Jane feel unwelcome. Robert's mother is sweet, and Robert himself provides support and encouragement when Jane needs it. The time they spend together pulls Robert and Jane closer, but their social stations still present a considerable obstacle. Jane still plans to return to her post as a lady's maid and feels the pull of her current life at Beechmount Hall.
 
I ached for all of them when Mr. Millworth died, but especially for Jane and Robert. Mr. Millworth continued his manipulative ways from beyond the grave, complicating matters for both Robert and Jane. Robert, who had just realized the depth of his feelings for Jane, now fears she'll think he only wants her for her inheritance. Neither one wants the other to feel compelled to marry. Robert receives good advice from an unexpected source but fails to use the one thing that would solve his dilemma. I hurt for Jane, who gained what she wanted but without the one thing she craved the most. I loved the ending as Robert's love showed through his kindness and compassion, and Jane recognized it and dared to admit her own. The epilogue's peek into Jane, and Robert's future was a nice wrap-up to the book.
 
I liked the attention to detail in describing a servant's life and duties, from scullery maid to housekeeper. The differences in status between the servants and their employers were dealt with realistically. I loved the scene at the inn where a stunned Robert discovers what being a servant rates for sleeping quarters. I loved what he did about it, not just for Jane but also for the other maids. I liked how his conversations with Jane provided an eye-opening view into a world he never considered before. I also liked the scene at Beechmount Hall when Jane experienced being on the receiving end of having a lady's maid. Her observations from her place in both worlds were a fascinating peek at a group rarely featured. 

The Marriage He Demands - Brenda Jackson (HD #2797 - Apr 2021)

Series: Westmoreland Legacy: The Outlaws (Book 2)

This ranching heir wants it all, including the woman who stands in his way!
 
Businessman Cash Outlaw has inherited almost all of his late mother's Wyoming ranch…but still needs the fifty acres left to her former caretaker. As negotiations with beautiful, determined Brianna Banks become much more intimate, she reveals she'll only sell him the property…if he gives her a baby! Cash's counteroffer? That the mother of his child must become his wife!
 
Good book. Another Outlaw/Westmoreland bites the dust. Part of the Alaska Outlaw branch of the Westmoreland family, Cash never knew his mother. His father, Bart, a ruthless and manipulative man, refused to allow his wives any custody of his children after they divorced - and they always divorced. He also refused to allow them to have contact with their children. While growing up, Cash believed that his mother abandoned him and never tried to contact him, so he was surprised to be called to hear her will after she died. He certainly didn't expect to inherit her vast dude ranch, minus 100 acres left to her former caretaker, Brianna.
 
Brianna loved Ms. Ellen. She grew up on the ranch where her father had been the foreman and took over when he died. Learning of her inheritance was a relief for her because it meant she had a home that was all hers. After an earlier heartbreak, Brianna doesn't intend to marry, but she wants a baby. Now she can continue her plans.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Cash and Brianna. Brianna intrigued and attracted Cash from the moment he saw her. Brianna had crushed on Cash since she saw his picture years earlier, and meeting him in person increased the feeling. Cash initially intends to sell the ranch as soon as possible, as he neither needs nor wants it. However, Brianna is equally determined to convince him to keep it. Her efforts gain traction when his brother suggests he and their brothers and cousins might want to invest. Cash, who can't stop thinking about Brianna, invites his family members to the ranch to see it. He also plans to spend an extended time on the ranch and get to know Brianna better.
 
I liked Cash a lot. He's confident but not arrogant, and he spends a great deal of time with Brianna. He listens to what she says and gives her the respect she deserves. As they work together, going through his mother's effects, the sparks between them continue to build. When his decision about the ranch requires him to purchase the land closest to the river, Brianna offers him a bargain - she'll sell him the land if he provides the sperm for her artificial insemination. Because of the situation with his mother, Cash insists on marriage and being involved with his child.
 
I liked Brianna, too. She fell hard for Cash. I liked how she wants Cash to understand what happened with his mother but doesn't want to push too hard. I loved that she pushed back on his offer to buy her land with requirements of her own, though his demand for marriage surprised her.
 
I enjoyed watching Cash in the time leading up to the wedding. He threw himself into doing everything possible to make the day perfect for Brianna. He's thoughtful and sweet and gives the impression that it's not just attraction that motivates him. I loved watching the connection between them deepen after the wedding. But trouble rears its head when Bart's interference comes between Cash and Brianna. Cash's fury vibrated off the pages, and Brianna's hurt and anger were right there with it.
 
I loved the ending and seeing Cash fight for Brianna. I also loved the confrontation between Cash and Bart, who still believes he's always right. There is also a reminder that none of the Outlaws knows why Bart refuses to admit their connection to the Westmorelands. I'm looking forward to the answer to that question. The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up for the book.
 
I like the importance of family to the Outlaws and the Westmorelands. Cash counts on his brothers for their honest opinions about the ranch, and they don't let him down. The same goes for the cousins who also came along. I liked the cameo appearances by characters from previous books.