Once a Spy - Mary Jo Putney (Zebra - Sept 2019)

Series: Rogues Redeemed (Book 4)

Love and survival in the shadow of Waterloo . . .

Wearied by his years as a British intelligence officer, Simon Duval resigns his commission after Napoleon's abdication. Hoping to find new meaning in his life, he returns to England, where he discovers his cousin's widow, Suzanne Duval, the Comtesse de Chambron. Working as a seamstress, living in reduced circumstances, Suzanne has had a life as complicated as Simon's. While both believe they are beyond love, their sympathetic bond leads him to propose a marriage of companionship, and Suzanne accepts.

She didn't want or expect a true marriage, but as Suzanne joins Simon in a search for his long-missing foster brother, warmth and caring begin to heal both their scars - and a powerful passion sparks between them. Then news from France threatens to disrupt their happiness. Napoleon has escaped from Elba and Wellington personally asks Simon to help prevent another devastating war. Only this time, Simon does not go into danger alone. He and Suzanne will face deadly peril together, and pray that love will carry them through . . .

This was a terrific entry in the Rogues Redeemed series. Simon is a war-weary colonel of intelligence who resigned his commission once Napoleon was exiled to Elba. He returns to England hoping to find peace in his new life and discovers that his cousin's widow, Suzanne, is alive after all. He tracks her down to check on her and finds her in reduced circumstances. Suzanne came to England after being rescued from a harem (Once a Scoundrel) and tries to make ends meet by sewing. Her life isn't easy, but she's free.

Simon and Suzanne met when she was fifteen and he was seventeen, just before she married his much older cousin. The only people there close in age; they became good friends in the weeks before the wedding. When they met again, they discovered that their connection was just as strong. Though Simon believes that his ability to feel has been destroyed, and Suzanne's experiences make the thought of love impossible, Simon proposes a marriage of friendship instead. After thinking about it, and receiving some unexpected motivation, Suzanne accepts.

I really liked both Simon and Suzanne. The first part of the book covers the beginning of their marriage and getting to know each other again. Both enter the marriage expecting only friendship and companionship. Simon is sensitive to Suzanne's fears and is gentle and understanding when he is with her. Suzanne feels safe around Simon, his declared disinterest in physical intimacy putting her at ease. My heart broke for Suzanne when she had her nightmare, and I loved Simon's efforts to comfort her. Imagine both their shock when morning revealed the unexpected revival of Simon's ability to feel! Poor Suzanne felt terribly betrayed. I loved Simon's acceptance of her feelings and determination to be as patient as necessary to woo Suzanne. Luckily, Suzanne's trust in Simon helps her face her fears. The slow reawakening of her desire is believable and moving. I loved how the love and intimacy between Simon and Suzanne grew over a credible amount of time, enabling both to overcome the fears and obstacles of their pasts. I loved seeing them both open their hearts fully at the end.

But this story is about more than just the romance of two wounded and lonely people. As a former intelligence officer, Simon still has contacts in the community. Because he is half-French and half-English, and Suzanne is French, they agree to test the temperature of the French émigré community regarding the possibility of Napoleon's escape. That was an interesting evening, as Suzanne's previous experience with these people hadn't been a pleasant one. I loved seeing her get back a little of her pride as the evening progressed, capped off with a marvelous example of righteous anger.

The action moves to Belgium when Simon receives word that his favorite cousin, Lucas, who was believed dead, may have been spotted in Brussels. The sense of impending danger is palpable as they search for Lucas. With Napoleon's escape, Wellington himself asks Simon to lend his talents to the war effort, and Suzanne insists on being part of it. The very real danger that they experience is vividly described, keeping me glued to the pages. Each of them makes significant contributions, though I feel like Suzanne's may have won the prize for unexpectedness. The descriptions of the Battle of Waterloo were such that I could almost smell the cannon smoke and mud as I read.

Underneath it all was the theme of family. Both Simon and Suzanne were lonely, and initially their marriage was about having someone special who could alleviate that loneliness. Also on Simon's side was his grief over the loss of his cousin, and then the revival of hope that he was still alive. I ached for Lucas when they found him and the pain that he was in because of his past. I had to laugh a little at the lecture he received from Suzanne regarding "wallowing" and how she gave him another way of looking at things. Suzanne believed herself to be without any family at all until a visit to her husband's estate revealed otherwise. There were some tense moments, but in the end family ties won the day. In both cases, "family is family" was the most important thing to remember.

I also liked the cameo appearances of characters from earlier books. After Suzanne's unpleasant reception from the émigré community, her trepidation over meeting the Rogue's wives was understandable. It was fun to see these ladies together and their easy acceptance of Suzanne. Lord Kirkland, of course, had additional motivations.

I look forward to the next book and seeing who it will be. The last of the cellar Rogues, who briefly appeared in the previous book? Or will it be Lucas, who feels a need for redemption of his own? It can't come soon enough!

Once a Scoundrel - Mary Jo Putney (Zebra - Sept 2018)

Series: Rogues Redeemed (Book 3)

An outcast on the high seas...

The son of a proud naval dynasty, Gabriel Hawkins was born to command the sea, until he leaves the Royal Navy in disgrace and is disowned by his family. As captain of his own ship, he's earned his living in ways both legal and illegal, and his experience makes him the best choice to ransom an aristocratic beauty captured by Barbary pirates.

Having avoided the traps of convention and marriage, Lady Aurora Lawrence is horrified by the prospect of spending her life as a harem slave. Her only hope of escape is a quiet, steely captain who has a history with her captor -- and who will do anything to free Rory. Together they undertake a dangerous mission through troubled waters -- and encounter another kind of danger as attraction burns hot within the close confines of his ship. But even if they endure the perils of the sea and enemy lands, can their love survive a return to England, where the distance between a disgraced captain and an earl's daughter is wider than the ocean?

Excellent book with plenty of action to go along with the romance. Aurora, aka Rory or "Roaring Rory" was touring the world with her cousin Constance, avoiding marriage and satisfying her need for adventure. They were on the way home from Greece when their ship was attacked by Barbary pirates, and they were taken hostage. A demand for a huge ransom was sent to Rory's family. Unable to pay the ransom, Rory's father washes his hands of his troublesome daughter, but Rory's mother doesn't give up so easily. She calls upon a friend who helps her find someone to negotiate Rory's release.

Gabriel is the captain of his own life and boat. A humane gesture caused him to be booted out of the Royal Navy and disowned by his family. Since then, he made his own way in the world doing things that were both legal and illegal. He played a significant role in the previous book, Oncea Rebel, using his skills to assist in the rescue of a British woman. Now his experience along the Barbary coast is called on to rescue another woman. His memories of the coast are not good ones, and he is reluctant to accept the charge until he sees a miniature of Rory. Something about her draws him in.

I liked both Rory and Gabriel. Rory is unconventional, independent, and intelligent. Knowing that she was not ready to get married, she used an inheritance to travel the world. She and her cousin Constance use their adventures to write stories about intrepid female explorers. When they are captured by the pirates, Rory's sense of honor makes her insist that any ransom include her cousin and the crew of their ship. Rory is also practical in that she knows she must cooperate with their captors until they are ransomed. Gabriel was also fantastic. He is determined, honorable and cunning. He will do whatever he must to return Rory safely home.  I loved seeing him use his experiences to get them out of trouble.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Rory and Gabriel. There were sparks between them from the moment they met. I was very impressed with Gabriel and the way he kept his focus in spite of Rory's state of undress. Beyond the sparks, there was also a deeper connection that was immediately apparent. I loved the way they spoke honestly of what was developing between them, and also realized that there was a chance that things would not go their way. The scenes on the ship from Algiers to Constantinople were sweet and sexy as they used the time to get to know each other. The attraction between them also grew. Gabriel's strength and honor were in full force as he resisted the pull in order to protect Rory in case everything went wrong. The resolution was exciting, and I loved how they came together at the end. There was a satisfying wrap-up with both Rory's family and Gabriel's that brought the book to a wonderful conclusion.

The story was packed full of action from beginning to end. The descriptions of the time in the two harems were vivid, and I could effortlessly picture what Rory and Constance experienced. Their fears and frustrations were easily understood. The tension mounted when Gabriel arrived to find that he had a history with Rory's captor. Malek became a slightly more sympathetic character as his reasons for the vast ransom were revealed, but his intentions remained unchanged. I was wholly invested in the story as it moved from Algiers to Constantinople. The pirate attack was vividly described and kept the tension high as they dealt with the unexpected complication. Their arrival in Constantinople was met with treachery and deceit, putting them all in extreme danger. I was on the edge of my seat as Gabriel worked from his side to effect a rescue, and Rory and the others declined to play the victim and fought back. There were exciting twists and turns and an unexpected surprise for Gabriel.

There was also a secondary romance between Constance and Gabriel's second-in-command, Jason. I enjoyed seeing the quieter and more practical Constance emerge from a bit of a shell and find a love she had given up on. I liked Jason's steadfast support of Constance and acceptance of her past. I especially enjoyed the scene as Constance sketched Jason with the goats; it was fun and sweet with an underlying simmer of attraction.

Once a Rebel - Mary Jo Putney (Zebra - Sept 2017)

Series: Rogues Redeemed (Book 2)

A ROGUE REDEEMED

As Washington burns, Callista Brooke is trapped in the battle between her native England and her adopted homeland. She is on the verge of losing everything, including her life, when a handsome Englishman cuts through the violent crowd to claim that she is his. Callie falls into her protector's arms, recognizing that he is no stranger, but the boy she'd once loved, a lifetime ago.

Lord George Gordon Audley had been Callie's best friend, and it was to Gordon she turned in desperation to avoid a loathsome arranged marriage. But the repercussions of his gallant attempt to rescue her sent Callie packing to Jamaica, and Gordon on a one way trip to the penal colony of Australia.

Against all odds, Gordon survived. Finding Callie is like reclaiming his tarnished soul, and once again he vows to do whatever is necessary to protect her and those she loves. But the innocent friendship they shared as children has become a dangerous passion that may save or destroy them when they challenge the aristocratic society that exiled them both . . .

This was a good friends to lovers story in a setting not often seen in Regency romance. Callie and Gordon were best friends growing up. When her father planned to marry her off to a Jamaican planter three times her age, Callie fled to Gordon for help. His idea for them to escape to Gretna Green did not go as planned, and they were quickly caught. In a heartbreaking scene, Gordon was nearly beaten to death, and Callie submits to save Gordon's life. She is sent off to Jamaica and Gordon ends up sent to the penal colony in Australia.

Fast forward fifteen years. Callie is a widow who fled from Jamaica to Washington DC to escape her brutal stepson, taking her late husband's illegitimate quadroon children and their grandparents with her. She created a successful life there as a dressmaker, but as the story opens, she is caught in the British invasion of Washington. Unfortunate timing places her in the midst of danger when an unexpected savior arrives just in time to save her life. Callie is stunned to see Gordon, who she believed was dead.

After many years and adventures, of which we get only hints, Gordon made it back to England. He now spends his time helping people out of tricky situations. He was asked to go to America and track down a widow for her family. They would like her to return to England, or if not, to be sure that she is safe and happy. The last thing he expected was for Callie to be that widow.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Callie and Gordon. Once they recovered from their surprise, they slipped easily back into their old friendship. But they are no longer children, and there is a new tension simmering under the surface. I loved seeing them get to know each other as adults. Callie has become a beautiful woman who is intelligent, independent, and determined. She doesn't trust easily and has no plans to marry again. Gordon is a man with many facets which comes in handy during this book. His happiness at finding Callie again made him realize that he wants to keep her in his life. There are two main obstacles. One is her determination not to marry, and the other is her reluctance to return to England. Because of their dysfunctional families, neither Gordon nor Callie has any real experience with love.

Gordon is the first to realize that what he feels for Callie is more than friendship and decides to use his time to woo Callie to his way of thinking. He also isn't above using little tastes of passion to show her the benefits of marrying him. Though adamantly opposed at first, changing circumstances and growing passion cause Callie to reconsider. I loved Gordon's patience as he slowly brought Callie to realize that they belonged together. I liked their support of each other on their return to England, where several surprises awaited them. But it took a near-tragedy for them to realize the depth of their feelings for each other. I liked the ending and seeing them accept the full measure of their love.

One of my favorite things about this book is the setting. Placing this book in Baltimore during the War of 1812 gave an added layer of drama to the story. It was fun to see Callie and Gordon jump back and forth between being British or American as the need arose. Gordon was especially good at exhibiting just the right attitude for the situation. I thoroughly enjoyed the descriptions of life in Baltimore as they prepared for the possible arrival of British soldiers. The vividness of the bombardment of Fort McHenry made me feel as though I was there. The identity of Callie's lawyer was unexpected and a nice touch.

There were two bits of mystery and danger that added to the tension of the book. The first was the reason that Callie fled Jamaica. Her husband's legitimate son was a greedy bully and his actions made it clear she and her adopted family were not safe. With the steps she took, she never expected Henry to pursue them, but was proved wrong. The confrontation with him was intense and had me on the edge of my seat until it was over. The second was the surprise inheritance that Gordon received on his arrival back in England. His trip back to his childhood home was emotional and full of both good and bad memories. Unexpected danger had me glued to the pages as once again Gordon was called on to save them from danger. I ached for him as he confronted the culprit to save himself and Callie.

I would have liked an epilogue to see their lives a few years down the road. I'm curious to see how things go for Callie's Baltimore family. Since this is part of a series, hopefully there will be updates in future books.

 

The Merry Viscount - Sally MacKenzie (Zebra - Sept 2019)

Series: Widow's Brew (Book 2)

The “fallen” ladies of Puddledon Manor’s Benevolent Home are determined to rise above scandal—and forge a sparkling new future operating their own brewery and alehouse…

With Christmas around the corner, Miss Caroline Anderson hoped to persuade a London tavern owner to carry the Home’s Widow’s Brew—only to discover the dastard was more interested in her ankles than her ale! To her further annoyance, her stagecoach back to Little Puddledon is waylaid by louts and a snow-covered ditch. Amid a nasty storm, Caro seeks shelter at a nearby estate—only to be greeted by Viscount Oakland, aka Nick, her brother’s childhood friend—and her schoolgirl crush. Now he’s the half-dressed host of what is clearly a holiday bacchanal. Still, his house is irresistibly warm…

Ever the free spirit, Nick has invited the wilder gentlemen of the ton, and an assortment of London’s lightskirts, to celebrate Christmas in a more traditional, pagan fashion. So he’s surprised to find Caro at his door. Now, with a blizzard raging, he must take her in—despite his fear she won’t take to his guests, and worse, upend his party. But she may surprise him—and upend his life…

This was a fun and fast-paced story about two people haunted by their pasts. I loved how the healing process was wrapped in humor and romance. Caro is the brewmaster for the Benevolent Home where she lives. She took that post after an event that caused a rift with her family and has affected her life ever since. After an unsuccessful trip to London searching for new markets for her ale, Caro is stuck on a coach with some unpleasant passengers and increasingly bad weather. When the coach ends up in a ditch, she recognizes their location and tramps off to seek help at the estate of Viscount Oakland, aka "Lord Devil," her brother's old school friend and Caro's girlhood crush.

Nick recently became the Viscount after the death of the uncle he loathed. Orphaned at a young age, he was wrenched from his mother's family in Italy and forced to live with his cold and bitter uncle. He usually avoids Oakland, but due to unforeseen (and hilarious) circumstances, he had to vacate his townhouse. To thumb his nose at his uncle's memory, Nick invited a couple of his wilder friends and some lightskirts to celebrate with a Christmas orgy. Only, now that he's there he finds himself less than enthusiastic about the festivities.

I loved the opening meeting between Caro and Nick. It has been almost twenty years since they last saw each other and neither immediately recognized the other. Caro mistakes Nick for his butler an is pretty brash in her zeal to procure help for her fellow passengers. She's shocked when she realizes her mistake, but no less determined. Nick didn't recognize Caro at first either, though he did think she looked familiar. He was immediately attracted to her, something that surprised him in light of his earlier disinterest in the available "ladies."

I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Nick and Caro. In a hilarious conversation, Caro offers a trade with Nick. She will pretend to be his lover, thereby negating rumors of his "problem" in exchange for his protection from any of the men who get the wrong idea about her. Thanks to their pasts, neither one has any interest in settling down, but their hearts don't get the message. As Nick learns about Caro's past his protective instincts are aroused along with other parts of him. I loved the way that he helped her let go of the pain of that past event and see that it wasn't her fault. Though her heart wants to believe that there is hope for more between them, her head still believes that a "fallen woman" is no match for a viscount.

Meanwhile, Nick begins to realize that he has let his feelings about his uncle control his life for too long. Caro's presence reminds him of happier times when he felt a part of her family. I loved seeing his metamorphosis from rake to responsible. His protectiveness toward Mrs. Dixon and her children, and his kindness toward young Edward was only the beginning. Learning more about Caro's new life made him take a fresh look at his and realize that he was ready for a change.

The interactions between Caro and Nick were great. The attraction between them was incendiary but tempered by Caro's fears. I loved Nick's patience as he helped her move past them. Their conversations were frank and frequently funny, and their inner monologues added to the hilarity. Nick's were especially amusing as he dealt with the feelings that Caro aroused. As he came to accept and embrace his newfound feelings for Caro, Nick struggled with finding a way to convince her of his love and to believe that they can have a future. I felt for him with his rambling attempts to tell her how much he needed her. I liked seeing Caro's thought processes as she worked through her feelings and fears to the realization of the dreams she thought she had given up. The ending was sweet and sexy and perfect for the two of them.

The mixture of people thrown together could have been awkward and uncomfortable, but the Christmas spirit seemed to take hold of everyone. I enjoyed seeing different sides emerge of the people who didn't make the greatest first impressions. The baker and his wife left their quarreling behind to prepare a special dish for the group. The "Weasel" turned out to be less of a threat than expected, and the judgmental preacher showed he had a heart after all. The two young peers learned a bit of humility, with one of them also experiencing an eye-opening revelation. The lightskirts found a new direction for their lives, and their boss played a big part in bringing Nick and Caro together. I loved Nick's servants and how the relationship between them and Nick changed as he did.

I did have a few questions at the end. Why was Caro in service as a nanny at seventeen? She is the daughter of the gentry, with parents and seven brothers. Shouldn't they have been helping her find a husband rather than sending her out alone into the world? Nick's realization of his feelings about his Italian family at the end left me wondering if he was going to do anything about it. I would have liked another chapter or an epilogue, maybe showing him and Caro honeymooning in Italy and visiting his family. I'd like to see what happens with the new residents of the Home and hope that maybe they will appear in the next book. 

 

The Cottage on the Corner - Shirlee McCoy (Zebra - Aug 2014)

Series: Apple Valley (Book 2)

In Apple Valley, Washington, true friends are never far, neighbors can help heal the loneliest hearts--and longed-for dreams can unexpectedly become real . . .

Charlotte Garrison's second chance is falling into place just like she's carefully planned. A few more sales of her heavenly sweets and she'll be able to turn the empty shop on Main Street into her own bakery--a plan much more sensible than ever again risking her heart. But when a rambunctious three-year-old girl lands on town deputy Max Stanford's doorstep, Charlotte finds helping the good-looking deputy care for her is sparking the most impossible dreams . . .

Max has never been much for settling down. But while he finds out if little Zuzu is really his daughter, Charlotte's warmth and caring makes him want to prove he's worthy of her trust. And as they struggle to come to terms with their pasts, Max will do whatever it takes to show Charlotte home is where dreams come true--and he and Zuzu are all the love and home she'll ever need.

This was a heartwarming story of family, friends, love, and second chances, all in a small town where, for good or bad, everyone knows everyone else's business. Both Charlotte and Max are relative newcomers to Apple Valley, each one looking for a new start. Max was a big city cop before burnout and an injury sent him looking for a slower lifestyle. Slow doesn't mean alone, however, and Max has quite the reputation as a ladies' man with no interest in anything permanent. Charlotte came to Apple Valley after the death of her husband revealed that he already had a wife and children. Devastated, she loses herself in what she does best - baking sweets and planning to open her own bakery. Men are off her shopping list entirely.

Charlotte and Max have been friendly acquaintances for years. He asked her out when she first moved to town but didn't lose any sleep over her refusal. However, he still attempts to flirt with her whenever he sees her, as he does in the opening scenes at Cade and Tessa's wedding. It's evident that there are some sparks between them, but Charlotte fights them all the way. Charlotte soon finds herself sucked into Max's life when he needs her help. Max is stunned when his ex-girlfriend shows up with a three-year-old girl she claims is his. In a heartbreaking scene, Morgan dumps the little girl with Max to go to Vegas for a job. I felt for Max, who was overwhelmed, but whose kind heart wanted what was best for little Zuzu, and throws himself on Charlotte's mercy.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Charlotte and Max. Both of them cling tightly to their "no relationships" rules, but the more time they spend together, the harder it is to remember why. With Zuzu's arrival in his life, Max finds that his old lifestyle doesn't hold the same appeal, and having opened his heart to her it isn't such a big step to let Charlotte in, too. He also knows that convincing Charlotte to trust him isn't going to be easy. I loved his patience and cheerful refusal to be discouraged. I ached for him when his romantic snow picnic didn't go the way he hoped because of Charlotte's fears. I liked his conversation with the preacher that might have had more impact if it hadn't been interrupted by an emergency with Zuzu. At the same time, Charlotte took a hard look at herself, her dreams, and her future, and realized that she wanted more. I loved her big moment at the end and seeing her finally let go of the past.

There were two mysteries that ran through the book. One was a problem with someone breaking and entering Charlotte's house. I enjoyed the way it brought out the protectiveness in Max, who went a little above and beyond the call of duty in watching out for her. It happened several times, escalating with each incursion. I began to suspect the who, but the reason was a bit of a surprise. The final confrontation was funny and heartbreaking. The other mystery was the question of whether Max is Zuzu's father. He fights against the idea at the beginning, but it isn't long before he starts getting into the swing of it. I loved his commitment by the end, but I would have liked a more definite answer.

I liked the secondary characters also. Zim and Gertrude still carry on their feud against each other, but also have their good points. I enjoyed seeing Zim help Charlotte take care of Zuzu that first day, though there was also some self-interest that came into play. One of my favorites in this book was Ida, the town mayor. She stepped into the gap when Max needed help with Zuzu. I also liked her rational and no-nonsense way of dealing with some of her more unruly constituents. I loved her part in the final confrontation with the thief.

Heiress Gone Wild - Laura Lee Guhrke (Avon - Sept 2019)

Series: Dear Lady Truelove (Book 4)

Dear Lady Truelove,

My ward is driving me crazy. I have to marry her off and get her out of my life. There's just one problem...

When Jonathan Deverill promised a dying friend he'd be guardian to the man's daughter, he envisioned a girl in pigtails and pinafores, a child he could leave behind in some finishing school. Problem is, his ward is actually a fully-grown, defiant beauty whose longing for romance threatens to make his guardianship a living hell.

New York heiress Marjorie McGann wants a London season and a titled husband who can help her spend the Yankee millions she's inherited, and she thinks her new British guardian is the perfect person to help her find him. But Jonathan has no intention of letting his friend's fortune be squandered. Under his watchful, protective eye, Marjorie finds romance hard to come by . . . until one fateful night when her own guardian's devastating kisses makes her wonder if the greatest romance of all might be right in front of her.

Fun book about two people who seem to be opposites, but are more alike than they know. I thoroughly enjoyed watching these two people drive each other crazy on their path to happily-ever-after. Though I haven't read the earlier books in the series, this one works well as a stand-alone. There are hints of the earlier stories, enough to fill in the blanks without bogging down the story with recaps. It was also motivation to read the previous books as soon as possible.

Marjorie is a young woman who is ready to take on a new life. She was dumped in boarding school at the age of seven by her father who promised to come back for her. Infrequent letters promised it would be "soon" but the years passed. She dreamed of having what her friends had - a London season, a titled husband, children, and a beautiful home of her own. She's saddened by the passing of her father, but more determined than ever to pursue the life she wants. A stuffy English guardian with plans to leave her at school until it's convenient for him to take her to London is not in her plans.

At the age of eighteen, Jonathan was disinherited by his father, leaving him to make his way in the world alone. After ten years in America doing many things, he and his business partner struck it rich in Idaho. Though extremely rich, Jonathan has just seen his best friend and partner die a terrible death from consumption (tuberculosis). Before Billy died, he begged Jonathan to take care of his "little girl." Of course, he promised to do so, expecting to find a child that he can leave in school.

Jonathan received quite a shock when Billy's "little girl" turned out to be a beautiful twenty-year-old woman. Not only is Marjorie not a child, she has no intention of being left behind and makes that perfectly clear. The sparks flew between Jonathan and Marjorie from the start, each intent on having their own way. Marjorie is an intelligent and determined young woman, and I was not surprised to see her take her destiny into her own hands. Jonathan's plans were completely upended when he found Marjorie onboard the ship to London. He and Marjorie butt heads as his protectiveness runs up against her determination to pursue the life she wants. That protectiveness goes a little overboard, though he did have reason to be concerned.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Marjorie and Jonathan. The sparks of attraction were there from the beginning, with Jonathan realizing that he could be in deep trouble. Lusting after the daughter of his best friend was not appropriate, and his attempts to fight it became more and more difficult. Marjorie started out pretty naïve, unwilling to believe the trouble she could make for herself. I could feel her frustration at the restrictions she faced on the ship, but she was also smart enough that she learned from it. Things got even livelier once they were in London and joined forces with Jonathan's sisters. I loved the way that they upended his plans, forcing him to stay in London.

Thrown into each other's company regularly, the attraction between Jonathan and Marjorie continues to build. Neither of them knows quite how to handle it. Jonathan has no interest in settling down. Even after all of his success, he still feels that he is searching for something which keeps him on the move. His growing feelings for Marjorie cause him to take a good look at himself and what he really wants for his future. I loved seeing him accept his feelings and look for the way to make his new dreams happen. I ached for him when Marjorie allowed her fears to push him away. Those fears made her look at her future with tunnel vision, refusing to face the truth about her true desires. Advice from an unexpected source opened her eyes. I loved Marjorie's big moment at the end and seeing her open her heart to the possibilities.

The secondary characters helped things along quite nicely and were lots of fun themselves. Marjorie's new friend and ostensible "chaperone" was quite a character. I leaned a little bit toward Jonathan's belief that she was a fraud. There were a couple of scenes on the ship that reinforced that idea, and yet I felt that there was more to her. She was a good foil for the Countess of Stansbury, who was very different from the Baroness. Though the Countess was a royal pain for Marjorie, she did provide a good look at what Marjorie would face when she reached London. Jonathan's sisters and their husbands were great. Jonathan's trepidation overseeing them for the first time in ten years was understandable, especially his sister Clara. I liked that she made him sweat a little before forgiving him. I loved the two sisters and their immediate support of Marjorie, as well as their refusal to let Jonathan bail on them. 

His First Choice - Tara Taylor Quinn (HS #2034 - May 2016)

Series: Where Secrets are Safe (Book 8)

The best decision they'll ever make

Lacey Hamilton is used to living in the background. Overshadowed her entire life, she stepped out of the Hollywood limelight and into the role she's meant to play: a counselor, part of the High Risk Team started by The Lemonade Stand women's shelter in Santa Raquel.

Her caseload leads her to the doorstep of Jeremiah "Jem" Bridges to rescue a little boy. She's not supposed to fall in love with the rugged construction worker and his adorable son. Love and duty, though, don't always agree. Especially when a truth is uncovered that neither she nor Jem is prepared to face.

Excellent story with an unusual storyline. The book opens with Lacey, a social worker, getting a call from a concerned daycare worker. A little boy she has cared for since he was a few months old shows worrisome signs - unusual injuries and a change in personality among them. She's afraid that he's being abused. Lacey takes down the information and pays a visit to father and son that very night. I will say that I was somewhat disappointed in Lacey at the very beginning. It seemed to me that she immediately jumped to the conclusion that it was Levi's father doing the abusing before she even met the man. Fortunately, it didn't take her long to realize that if there was any abuse, it wasn't Jem doing it. There are, however, enough signs that she can't completely walk away.

I really liked both Lacey and Jem. Lacey is a strong and compassionate woman who also has some self-image problems. She and her identical twin sister, Kacey, were models when they were younger, and Kacey went on to work as an actress, too. Lacey was the quiet one who frequently got overlooked around her more outgoing sister. It wasn't until Lacey moved away and became involved with a women's shelter, The Lemonade Stand, that she found her niche in life. However, she does tend to compare herself to her sister, always believing that she doesn't measure up. I loved how she connected with little Levi and how he found his way into her heart. Jem is a great guy and a wonderful father. I loved seeing him with Levi and what an excellent relationship they have. Jem has full custody, with his ex-wife, Tressa, getting weekend visitations. I often got frustrated by the way Jem consistently made excuses for Tressa's actions and attitude. The more I got to know him the more I liked him, but I also wanted to find a way to open his eyes.

I loved the development of the relationship between Lacey and Jem. There were sparks between them right from the start, but Lacey tried to resist them. Because of her work connection to Levi and Jem, having a personal relationship was not possible. But as fate kept throwing them together, the attraction between them could not be denied. I loved that Lacey accepted the connection and made the move that would remove that obstacle from their relationship. I loved watching them grow closer, slowly getting to know each other. Jem won my heart with the way that he focused on Lacey even when Kacey was around. I loved how he showed her that she was wonderful the way she was and didn't need to keep comparing herself to Kacey. I especially liked his explanation of how he knew the difference between the two women. Lacey's feelings for Jem grew quickly, but her insecurity worked against her for a long time. I loved seeing her finally start to believe in their relationship. However, she also had a big reservation, and that was the relationship between Jem and Tressa. There were things about it that raised red flags for her, but Jem blew off her concerns. It wasn't until a combination of something that Levi said and a confrontation with Tressa that Lacey's suspicions proved correct. I ached for both her and Jem as she confronted him with her observations and conclusion and made her stand. I loved Jem's big moment at the end and everything he went through to get there.

Another thing I loved about this book was the relationship between Lacey and Kacey. Their love for each other was unquestionable. I also loved how they were there for each other, even during those times when their relationship was strained. It was interesting to see the similarities and the differences and how those affected their relationship. I loved that Lacey saw what she needed to do for her own happiness and did it. I also liked that with time and distance she was able to change the dynamics between herself and her sister. I also liked how her love and concern for Kacey helped her sister get a better handle on her own life and issues. It was a great start to Kacey finding who she is inside. I've already read Kacey's story (Her SecretLife) and found it just as moving as Lacey's.

 

The Amish Christmas Matchmaker - Vannetta Chapman (LI #1237 - Oct 2019)

Series: Indiana Amish Brides (Book 4)

She'll find him a wife for Christmas…

Which of these Indiana Amish Brides is next?

With her wedding business thriving, Annie Kauffmann could never leave her beloved Amish community. So when handsome Amish cowboy Levi Lapp tries to convince her father to move the family to Texas, she must put a stop to it. If Annie finds Levi a wife, he might forget his dream of moving…but can she keep from falling for him herself?

Good story about two people who have very definite and very different dreams for their futures. Annie has her booming wedding business in the town where she grew up, close to friends and family. She loves helping others achieve their happily-ever-afters even if she has given up on one of her own. Levi is a visitor to their community. He wants to start an Amish community in Texas, fulfilling a dream he's had since he was a child. Being a romance, you know how the story will end, but the journey on this one was full of ups and downs.

I liked both Annie and Levi, though there were times that both of them irritated me. Annie is kind, giving, loves her family, and is more than a little bit stubborn. Her roots go deep in her family's land, its branches extending to her nearby brothers and sisters and their families, as well as the people she's known all her life. I loved her friendship with her Englisch business partner and the unexpected side of Annie that Priscilla reveals later in the book. Annie is not at all pleased with the arrival of Levi Lapp, in his ridiculous boots and silly cowboy hat, with his plans to recruit members of her community to start a new settlement in Texas. She's furious when he turns his sights on her father and brother. Levi is a hard worker, cheerful and charming, and focused on the future. He dreamed of returning to Texas since he was fourteen and his family moved from there to Indiana then to Pennsylvania. When his relative Old Simon in Indiana agrees to be a minister for the new community, Levi knows the time is right. He arrives in Goshen full of confidence and big plans, only to run into a brick wall named Annie.

There were sparks between Annie and Levi from the beginning. Annie made no secret of her disapproval of his plan to tempt people away from Goshen to Texas; she was nearly rude about it. I was impressed by Levi's patience with her attitude. Though it visibly amused him most of the time, there were a few times that it didn't, such as the meeting with the local bishop. Levi doesn't let it get him down for long, which leads Annie to more desperate measures. She talks him into going out with a friend of hers, hoping that he'll fall in love and give up on going to Texas. It backfires a bit when everyone around them sees the sparks and assumes that Levi and Annie are interested in each other. They decide to go on a few fake dates to show everyone how wrong they are for each other, but even that doesn't go as planned. Except for their visions for the future, Annie and Levi find that they like each other quite a lot. I enjoyed their lively banter and seeing them eventually stop fighting. It's easy to see the feelings grow between them, but the main obstacle is still there. It takes a near tragedy to make them look at what is possible if they both want to make it happen. The scene in the hospital room was incredibly emotional as they realize any problem can be overcome if they do it together. The three-years-later epilogue was great.

My only real complaint in the story was that there were several mentions of troubles between Levi and his family, but no details. I got the feeling that those problems were a big part of what drove Levi's dreams, and some details would have helped in understanding his determination.

Finn - JoAnn Ross (Castlelough Publishing - Dec 2016)

Series: 7 Brides for 7 Brothers (Book 7)

Finn Brannigan has a need for speed. Fast cars, fast jets, and the fast life that comes with being a TOPGUN naval aviator. He's flying missions over Afghanistan when his media mogul father dies unexpectedly, leaving Finn an airline in the wilds of the Alaskan wilderness. Which is a cool surprise, though he hasn't a clue what he's supposed to do with three small planes half a world away.

Nine months later, burned out from multiple deployments, Finn leaves the Navy and heads north to the Last Frontier to escape the world. But his planned isolation is blown to bits when a runaway bride insists he fly her to her planned honeymoon cabin located in his remote mountain town of Caribou.

As the short Alaskan summer spins out, Finn finds himself wanting to slow the days down and savor every delicious moment with the free-spirited singer/songwriter who’s made him feel alive again.

Tori Cassidy has had it with dishonest, cheating playboys. Alaskan bush pilot Finn Brannigan is exactly the kind of man she can envision building a life with. Hardworking. Honest. Ordinary.

There’s just one problem: Finn is lying about who he really is.

Good conclusion to the series. Finn is the youngest of the Brannigans, and at this point the only one left unattached. As a Navy pilot he's enjoyed the adrenaline rush associated with it and the attentions of the ladies on the ground. However, between his father's death and two near-death experiences, Finn is ready for his next adventure. Conveniently, his father left him an airline in the wilds of Alaska, giving Finn a chance to enjoy some peace and quiet. To aid in that, he doesn't tell anyone in Caribou, Alaska, that he's the new owner of the airline. They all believe that he's just another pilot. His peace and quiet come to an abrupt end when he picks up a runaway bride who plans to use the intended honeymoon cabin for her own chance at peace and quiet.

Tori has had a rough year. Her singing career is at a standstill while the now-bankrupt recording studio finds a buyer for her contract, leaving her broke. Her engagement to her childhood crush comes to a crashing end when she discovers his cheating, lying, and actual plans for the future. I had to laugh when she reminisced about finding out about his cheating and how she thought about "Bobbitizing" him. I'm old enough to remember that event, especially since it happened not far from where I lived. Tori may be down, but she isn't out. She is determined to write some new songs and restart her career, even if she has to go back to the beginning to do it.

Both Finn and Tori get a shock when he arrives in Anchorage to pick up a honeymoon couple. They had had an intense one-night encounter a year earlier, something that neither of them was able to forget. I enjoyed that reunion as the sparks flew fast and furious between them. Finn rocked the cocky pilot attitude, pulling out all the stops in flirting with Tori. Tori can't deny that the sparks are still there, but she's not in the mood to restart anything with Finn. I liked how Finn backed off a bit, his protective instincts coming up when he realizes that she's hurting. I loved the way he looked after her that first night when he went to check on her and found her somewhat the worse for champagne.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Finn and Tori. Finn was all for seeing where the sparks would take them, but Tori wasn't so sure. The depth of the connection she felt during their one-night encounter had scared her into running. Meeting Finn again stirs up those same feelings and the same fears. Because of her past, Tori has trouble believing that love lasts. While Finn started out going for the attraction, it wasn't long before he realized that there was something more going on. But he too had some issues believing that love was in the cards for him. It was great fun to see him call one of his brothers for advice, and have that brother bust out laughing because he'd done the same thing.  Finn also has the problem of Tori not knowing that he is a billionaire's son and owner of the airline. He knows he has to tell her but keeps putting it off for the "right time." I ached for both of them when the truth came out. Finn knows he screwed up, but he isn't going to give up. Tori rightly felt betrayed, and it only added to her belief that love never lasts. I liked the lecture she received from her best friend, and what she did with the advice she got. Tori's big moment was great as she used her music to tell Finn how she felt.

The central theme that ran through all seven books was the importance of family. From a collection of brothers that rarely spoke to each other, much less spent time together at the beginning, to the loving, supportive brotherhood they became, their journeys were unique and emotional. Though their father had been an absentee one after their mother's death, with each book the depth of his love for his sons became more evident. In Finn's case, he had it a little easier than his brothers because his father spent some quality time with him on their trip to Alaska. There was also an interesting twist to the Alaska connection that I didn't see coming, showing that Finn wasn't the only one who had secrets. The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up to the series. The scene in the library was a moving one, and I loved that Finn was the one to start the new tradition.

 

James - Roxanne St. Claire (South Street Publishing - Dec 2016)

Series: 7 Brides for 7 Brothers (Book 6)

Running a billion-dollar hedge fund doesn't leave a lot of time for fun in the sun, but that doesn't bother James Brannigan. After spending his youth helping his widowed father raise six younger brothers, James took a cue from his workaholic dad and channeled all his energy into business. So when he learns that his father left him a tiny winery on the Amalfi Coast, he's not thrilled. A trip to Italy is the last thing his busy schedule needs, but the winery has to go. Which means...he has to go to the winery.

Kyra Summers is the definition of a free-spirit. In her thirty years on earth, she’s never stayed in one place long enough to put down roots until she arrived in Positano and fell hard for the bold flavors, hot sun, warm people, and above all, the wonderful wine. Her job at a small, local winery is her first attempt to make a real home and the people who run the place start to become like family to her. Until the winery's new owner, a devastatingly handsome, shockingly ruthless billionaire, arrives with plans to shut it all down. Kyra's willing to do whatever it takes to save this place she loves--even if it means cozying up to a man who's harder than granite and twice as cold.

But the Italian sunshine has a way of heating things up--with every fiery exchange, they strike sparks and draw irresistibly closer together. James is stunned by his attraction to a woman unlike any he's met before, and Kyra discovers a simmering passion hidden behind his polished exterior. But passion won't be enough to change James's mind and his priorities, which is exactly why his late father sent him to Italy. Changing James is going to take a much bigger risk--it's going to take love.

I loved this book. Colin, the patriarch of the Brannigan family, died eight months earlier, after an illness he kept from his seven sons. Though he tied up his billions in a trust for five years, he left each of his sons unique legacies. James received ownership of a tiny winery on the Amalfi coast of Italy, a bequest that left him thoroughly confused. He never knew his dad owned a winery, and running a hedge fund is not conducive to winemaking. Besides, James doesn't drink wine or anything alcoholic because it can lead to a loss of control. The best thing he can do is unload it fast and get back to what he does best. With an offer already in hand, James heads to Italy to check the place out before signing on the dotted line. He doesn't expect to get blindsided by Kyra, the pretty and bubbly tourist liaison for the winery.

Kyra toured the winery during her world travels and never left. After moving from place to place for most of her life, something about Positano made her want to put down roots. She was embraced by the Sebastiani family who quickly made her feel like one of them. When they hear that the new owner is coming to visit, Kyra is determined to find out his intentions. She'll do anything to help her family.

I loved the development of the relationship between James and Kyra. It got off to a slightly rough start as laser-focused, business-only James was confronted by bright and cheerful Kyra, who refuses to be deterred by James's cold demeanor. I laughed out loud at Kyra's success at rolling right over James's attempts to avoid going with her, then at his reaction to riding the Vespa. James realized from the very beginning that Kyra was going to be trouble for him, and he was right. There was no denying the attraction between them, but worse than that was the way she got past his walls.

Both James and Kyra were raised by workaholic parents. James's dad buried his grief at his wife's death by immersing himself in work, leaving James to watch out for his younger brothers. It was Colin's influence that had James following in his footsteps, both in business and in choosing work to avoid his feelings. Kyra's mother was also a workaholic, leaving Kyra in the care of nannies most of the time. All Kyra wanted was her mother's attention, but all she got was watching her mother coldly destroy people's lives in the name of business. Instead of becoming like her mother, Kyra became the opposite. She left home at eighteen and traveled the world, getting to know people of all kinds, always in search of a sense of belonging.

It was so much fun to watch Kyra teach James how to relax and enjoy himself. The more time they spent together, the stronger the attraction became. They also developed a sense of trust in each other that enabled them to share painful parts of their pasts, and in that sharing began to heal. The attraction and trust deepened into stronger feelings. Kyra knew she was going to hurt when James left, but she couldn't stop what was happening. It took James longer to realize what he was feeling. I loved his moment of revelation and his determination to show Kyra the depth of his feelings. Who knew that stuffy old James had the capability for something so romantic? But fate threw them a curveball in the form of trouble at the winery. I ached for Kyra and her feelings of betrayal, and for James and his bewildered devastation. I loved the ending and how both James and Kyra found what they were looking for.

The winery itself was at the center of the story. In previous books we saw how James's father had his reasons for each bequest, each son learning something about himself and his parents along the way. At the beginning James was closed off and determined to sell the winery at the earliest opportunity. But as he got to know the Sebastiani family, the rush to sell began to fade and thoughts of keeping it began to grow. When the matriarch of the family shared her memories of James's parents and their visit there, it brought back memories of happier times. I loved seeing the effect it had on James and laughed a little at the confusion it caused him. His conversations with assorted brothers only confused him more. At the same time, James began to question some things about the winery itself. I had my suspicions long before James did and wondered if he would figure it out. I loved when the light went on and James realized what was going on. His reaction was fantastic and I loved seeing the combination of the old ruthless businessman James and the new and improved James with a heart. The confrontation at the hotel was great, followed by him riding to the rescue (on a Vespa, by himself, with no helmet!) at the winery. That scene was exciting and heartwarming and perfectly showcased the new James. The epilogue was great, and I loved the conversation with Finn, the last man standing in the Brannigan family - for now.

Max - Lynn Raye Harris (H.O.T. Publishing - Dec 2016)

Series: 7 Brides for 7 Brothers (Book 5)

Former Navy SEAL Max Brannigan is a loner with a strong protective streak and an ocean of survivor’s guilt that drives him to take risks no sane man would take. When he gets the news his billionaire father died and left him a horse farm in Kentucky, he’s busy protecting American military contractors in a war zone. The first moment he’s able, he’ll fly back to the US and dispose of the farm. What does a man like him need horses for anyway? Of all the things his father could have left him, this certainly ranks up there as the most bizarre.

Elinor Applegate lives for her horses, but life on the farm isn’t easy. Once-thriving Applegate Farm has fallen on hard times in the past few years. Only an influx of cash from her mother’s old friend enabled Ellie to keep the family operation going. All her hopes to turn around the business and buy back the land lie on the hooves of a colt destined to greatness. She’s just got to get him there first.

But when sexy, ruthless, infuriating Max Brannigan shows up, Ellie realizes her troubles are far worse than she thought. He knows nothing about horses—and he cares less than nothing about her dreams. To Max, the horses are useless and have to go—in spite of the fact that every encounter with Ellie only makes him want to drag her into his arms and kiss the fire right out of her. But Ellie will fight hard to keep her dreams alive, even if she has to fight dirty. Max has spent most of his life protecting people from danger—but can he protect himself when Ellie launches a full-scale assault against the walls surrounding his heart?

Good book. Max is one of seven brothers, each of whom received odd bequests from their father upon his death. For Max, he was puzzled when he received the deed to a Kentucky horse farm. As a former SEAL and current security operative, the last thing he needs is a horse farm. He plans to go to Kentucky when he can, check the place out, and sell it to raise the money he needs to start his own security firm.

Ellie is the last living Applegate on the farm that's been in her family for four generations. She's doing her best to keep the farm going, helped by a loan from an old friend of her mother's. She has big plans to pay off the loan, but it's going to take a little time. Time that may have just run out.

I liked both Ellie and Max. Ellie is hard-working, determined, and caring. Her farm and the horses mean the world to her. I loved seeing her with those horses, from the pregnant mare to Champ, the horse who holds all her hopes and dreams. There are times when it seems that she works 24 hours a day. Ellie also has a big heart. I loved seeing her friendship with Lacey and the fun they had together. Ellie also watched out for Lacey, who had issues with an obnoxious ex-boyfriend. I liked Max, too, though there were a few times I wanted to shake him. Max has a tremendous protective streak that started when he was a kid. Even though he's a middle brother, he felt he had to watch over them, especially after their mother died. That protectiveness grew stronger when he was a SEAL and later as he worked security is world hotspots. Max has some commitment issues thanks to the way his father withdrew from the family after his wife's death. He doesn't believe in love, despite seeing four of his brothers fall.

There were sparks between Max and Ellie from the beginning. He arrived expecting a farm of racehorses that he could sell for big bucks, and instead found a bunch of "prancers." This attitude did not endear him to Ellie. He made it clear from the start that he wants to sell and move on. Ellie does not just roll over and accept his offer. She is determined to keep the farm, but that means she has to keep Max from selling it before she can complete her plans. It was fun to see Ellie push back against Max and to see his amusement at her misunderstandings of the type of person he is. I enjoyed watching the attraction build as they learned more about each other. It wasn't long before they went from adversaries to friends, and from there to lovers. Max was a bit freaked out by his attraction to Ellie. He has no intention of sticking around; watching the grass grow would drive him nuts, but he keeps picturing himself in her future. Ellie knows he doesn't plan to stay and tries to protect her heart, but her feelings can't be denied. I ached for both of them at the end as Max tried to run from his emotions. I had to laugh at his "aha" moment as he finally realized the truth. I liked the ending and seeing that hint of vulnerability in him as he faced Ellie.

Like his brothers in the other books, Max discovers that the off-the-wall inheritance wasn't so odd after all. Each son has been given something that their father believes will help them avoid making the mistakes he did. Finding out about his mother's connection to Applegate Farm helps Max see a different side of his father. Seeing Ellie's commitment to the continuation of her family's traditions also makes him look at the farm from another angle. I liked seeing the changes he went through as all of these things caused him to re-examine his life and his plans.

Highland Jewel - May McGoldrick (St. Martin's - Sept 2019)

Series: Royal Highlander (Book 2)

Maisie Murray is the picture of docility, quiet and compliant in the eyes of her family. To her activist friends, however, she’s a fearless crusader for women’s rights. In the wake of the Peterloo Massacre, Maisie and a friend found the Edinburgh Female Reform Society, and she carries the banner for universal suffrage.

Niall Campbell, a hero of the wars, a decorated officer of the Royal Highland Regiment, is battle weary and searching for stability in his life. A fierce warrior by training and a poet at heart, Niall walks away from the shining career that lies ahead of him, to the dismay of his superiors. In saving his sister when a protest turns violent, he meets Maisie. Their relationship begins as one of experience versus idealism, of scars versus hope. Soon, however, he finds in Maisie the heart he longs for.

When Niall’s sister is arrested and disappears, he quickly realizes his life is not his own, for the British authorities have a mission for him to accomplish in exchange for his sister’s freedom. Overnight, Maisie loses Niall, her friend, and her home. And in the wake of the riots that sweep through the cities of Scotland, Maisie’s own sister Isabella is branded a traitor to the crown, and the family must flee to the Highlands. Here in the heart of the Highlands, Maisie runs into Niall again. He has a new name and carries a message of hope―but Niall has a task to complete―and their future rests on their ability to overcome the forces that divide them, or―for the future of Scotland―she must stop the man who owns her heart.

Excellent continuation of the Royal Highlander series. While this book can be read as a stand-alone, the experience will be richer if you read Highland Crown first. One of my favorite things about both books is that they deal with events outside the usual Society life. Indeed, the upper crust of Society is shown in an entirely different light. The setup of the book is a little different also. It starts in the middle of the story, goes back to the beginning to catch up, then continues in the present. Part of the story also takes place at the same time as the previous book, but from Maisie's point of view rather than Isabelle's.

There are two sides to Maisie. One is the quiet, docile girl who doesn't seem to have a thought in her head. This is the side that her family sees, and the reason for it is heartbreaking. Outside of the home, she shares with her family, Maisie is just the opposite. She is an activist, working for the rights of women and the ordinary people of Scotland. She has formed a Women's Reform Society with her best friend, Fiona, where they meet to talk about issues, plan protests, and recruit new members. Unfortunately, the British government is cracking down on what it considers to be subversive activity.

Niall is Fiona's brother. He recently retired from active service, disturbed by the things he's been called to do since the end of the war with Napoleon. All he wants now is a stable, quiet life with his sister and nieces. He is dismayed to discover Fiona's double life, knowing from experience the danger she is in. When a rally turns dangerous, Fiona begs Niall to save Maisie too. From that moment on, there is an undeniable connection between Niall and Maisie.

I liked the development of the relationship between Maisie and Niall. Though he was a soldier for a long time, there is also a softer side to him that comes out around Maisie. She understands that the things he's seen haunt him. I liked the way that she listens to more than just the words when he talks. Niall is also just as protective of Maisie as he is of Fiona and I ached for how he worries about them both. The feelings between them grow rapidly, but there are obstacles to overcome. Maisie's brother-in-law has taken a dislike to Niall, and she has to find a way to overcome that. She also needs to tell them about her other life. But before she can do that, Fiona is taken by the authorities.

There is more behind Fiona's capture than either Maisie or Niall is aware of at first. Niall is blackmailed into accepting a dangerous mission for the Crown. Accepting the danger to save his sister, Niall refuses to drag Maisie into it. Instead, he frees her from their commitment, breaking her heart. He never expects to see her again, but fate has other plans. The intrigue and intensity ramp up when Niall shows up in the Highlands under suspicious circumstances. There are multiple twists and turns that put Niall, Maisie, and even Cinead and Isabelle in danger. I was glued to the pages as each event played out, and I found myself rooting for the best outcome. I loved seeing Niall and Maisie come together despite the turmoil around them. I especially enjoyed Niall's words to Maisie at the end about their future and life together.

The story arc that runs through both books, and will continue into book three, is an intriguing one. I love seeing more of the world outside London, and the realistic look at the social problems of the day. The story of Cinead and his mother is especially intriguing. I ached for Caroline and what she went through. I was somewhat familiar with her as a historical character, but these books provide a different look into her life. The ending brought tears as Caroline finally got her dearest wish. It will be interesting to see where it goes in the next book.

The secondary characters were terrific as well. My favorites were Fiona and Morrigan. I liked Fiona's determination to make a better world for her daughters. She and Maisie made an excellent team, each with their own strengths. My favorite was Morrigan. I liked seeing her relationship with Maisie change from adversarial to the closeness of sisters. She is just as committed to her cause as Isabelle and Maisie are. I look forward to the next book and seeing what is in store for her.

 

The Hunt for Red October - Tom Clancy (Naval Institute Press - Oct 1984)

Somewhere under the freezing Atlantic, a Soviet sub commander has just made a fateful decision. The Red October is heading west. The Americans want her. The Russians want her back. The chase for the highly advanced nuclear submarine is on—and there’s only one man who can find her...

Brilliant CIA analyst Jack Ryan has little interest in fieldwork, but when covert photographs of Red October land on his desk, Ryan soon finds himself in the middle of a high-stakes game of hide-and-seek played by two world powers—a game that could end in all-out war.

It has been a long time since I last read this book, but it was still as gripping a tale as ever. The idea of a Soviet submarine crew defecting to the US and taking their sub along with them was an intriguing idea. Staring the story from Captain Ramius's point of view was an excellent way to set the hook. I loved getting a glimpse of what motivated him to do such a thing and an idea of what he was up against.

Next up was the addition of the American side of things. First, the American submarines tasked with keeping an eye on the Russian subs, tracking them and noting their capabilities. The first inkling of the difficulties tracing this sub comes when the Russian sub "disappears" from their scopes. The questions continue as Jack Ryan travels to CIA headquarters with clandestine photos taken of the Red October and a plan to get some answers. The intensity ramps up when the CIA receives word that Ramius is trying to defect, and the whole Russian navy is out to stop him.

The cat and mouse game kept me glued to the pages in spite of the fact I knew how it turns out. Each time I read it, I seem to pick up something new or am reminded of something I forgot. Jack's discomfort with being a "field agent" is evident, but he is determined to succeed. I loved seeing how his mind worked as he tried to anticipate Ramius's moves. Ramius's determination to avoid detection by both Russian and American subs kept everyone on their toes. My favorite parts are the ones with the sonarman, Jonesy, from the sub Dallas. I love his humor, his intensity, and his dogged determination.

The tension ramped up as all the moving parts came together to hide the defection of the Red October. But just when it looked like all was well, an unexpected player entered the game. The intensity of this part, with the difficulties posed by rules of engagement and the need to not start a war, had me on the edge of my seat until it was all over.

One of my favorite things about this book was after Ryan and the men from the Dallas joined Ramius on the Red October. Seeing these men, who had been enemies for so long learn about each other and see the similarities is a lesson that everyone should pay attention to. I especially liked seeing Jonesy and his Russian counterpart.

The author has an incredible talent for description that frequently made me feel as though I were right in the middle of the action. The descriptions of life onboard a submarine were especially vivid and often made me very happy I could look out a window while I was reading.

 

First Responder on Call - Melinda Di Lorenzo (HRS #2054 - Aug 2019)

She doesn't remember her name

But she knows her child is in danger…

When Remo DeLuca stumbles on a mysterious, injured woman, the EMT springs into action to save her. Celia Poller doesn't know who she is -- the only thing she's sure of is that she and her child are in danger! With so many unknowns between Remo and Celia, it's no time for love, especially when someone wants them both dead and gone…

Good book with plenty of action and a fast-moving romance. On his way home one night, Remo stumbled onto a car accident with an injured woman. Things get complicated when she can't remember who she is, just that she and her son are in danger. Something about the woman touches him deeply, and Remo is determined to protect her and Xavier.

Celia isn't sure why but she trusts Remo from the moment she meets him. Though she can't remember the details, she knows that it is Xavier's father who poses the greatest danger. She's reluctant to involve Remo in her troubles, but she'll do anything to keep her son safe. The last thing she expects is to be attracted to him.

I really liked Celia and Remo as a couple. Remo is an awesome man. He is kind, compassionate, and has a huge heart. His caring is evident from the moment he met Celia and Xavier. I loved how he believed her fears immediately and promised to take care of them both. I also enjoyed his instant connection with Xavier. The two of them were cute together, and it was easy to see that Xavier had made a place for himself in Remo's heart. Celia is incredibly strong though she doesn't see it herself. She escaped a dangerous situation and managed to keep them safe for five years. There are sparks between Remo and Celia from the start. Remo is something of a loner because of things that happened in his childhood. His few attempts to share those events resulted in him feeling more alone than ever and unwilling to risk it happening again. But something about Celia makes him want to trust her. I ached for him as he opened up to her and felt his vulnerability as he waited for her reaction. Celia has trust issues also after being so long in hiding. She also worries about trusting her judgment after making such a big mistake with Xavier's father. The intensity of their situation ramps up their connection as Celia and Remo depend on each other. The ending was great, and I loved the epilogue. Remo's big moment was sweet and fun.

The suspense of the story was great, with nearly nonstop action from the very first page. Celia's fear was evident from the start. Her missing memories were a complication, but she knew enough to realize that she was in danger. Because of his past, Remo was in a place where he understood and believed in her. As Celia and Remo struggle to stay ahead of the people who are after her, Celia's memory slowly begins to return. The intensity increased as each new memory brought her closer to knowing the who and the why but also brought the danger closer. The final confrontation had me on the edge of my seat as everything finally came together. I especially loved how the women had an active role in their rescue and had to laugh a little at the comments they made at the end.

 

Lilac Lane - Sherryl Woods (Mira - Oct 2017)

Series: Chesapeake Shores (Book 14)

At the heart of Lilac Lane is Keira Malone, who raised her three children alone after her first marriage broke apart, and who, after years of guarding her heart, finally finds love again. But that love is short-lived when her fiancé suffers a fatal heart attack. Grieving and unsure of what's next, Keira agrees to move from Dublin to Chesapeake Shores, Maryland, to spend time with her daughter, Moira, and her new granddaughter, Kate, as well as to help her son-in-law, Luke, with his Irish pub, O'Briens.

Not wanting to live underfoot, she rents a charming cottage on Lilac Lane, replete with views of the ocean and her neighbor's thriving garden -- not to mention views of the neighbor himself. The neighbor is none other than Bryan Laramie, the brusque and moody chef at the pub, with whom Keira is constantly butting heads. But things get real when Bryan's long-lost daughter, whom he hasn't seen since she was a baby, shows up out of the blue. As Bryan and Keira each delve into their pasts, reopening wounds, the rest of the town is gearing up for the Fall Festival Irish Stew cook-off, and making no bones about whose side they're on. It's Kitchen Wars meets This is Your Life -- a recipe for disaster…or a new take on love?

Terrific book. It has been a long time since my last visit to Chesapeake Shores, but it was effortless to slide right back into it. This is the story of Keira, Moira's mother (The Summer Garden) and Bryan, the chef at Luke O'Brien's pub. Relations between Keira and Moira had been strained for a long time before they mended their relationship in the earlier book. Keira raised her three children on her own when her husband deserted her, leaving Keira somewhat bitter and wary of love. Just when she opened herself up again to the possibility, her fiancé died, leaving Keira grieving and lost. Worried about her mother, Moira stretches the truth with the help of her new O'Brien relatives and convinces Keira to come to Maryland, using baby Kate and the pub as the reasons for the visit. Moira really hopes to convince her mother to stay in Chesapeake Shores.

Bryan is the chef at the pub. He worked in both New York and Baltimore before coming to Chesapeake Shores. While not quite a loner, he mostly keeps to himself. He rules his kitchen, accepting interference only from his boss, Luke, and Nell O'Brien, the family matriarch who taught him the traditional Irish recipes served at the pub. The arrival of feisty and blunt Keira doesn't sit well with him, but he doesn't have much choice in the matter.

I liked both Keira and Bryan and the development of their relationship. In the beginning, it is very adversarial, as Keira takes her job of ensuring authenticity very seriously, but Bryan doesn't take her suggestions well. Things begin to change a little bit when Keira moves into the cottage next door to Bryan's house, and they discover that when they leave their work difference behind they get along very well. There were some terrific scenes of late-night chats over wine, and early mornings spent weeding Bryan's garden. The sparks of antagonism that flew between them begin to change to a different kind of sparks. But both Keira and Bryan have baggage that makes them resistant to those sparks. Keira's risked her heart twice and had it broken, though in different ways. Risking it again seems to be the height of folly, so she works hard to keep that little bit of distance between them. Bryan was married many years before but neglected his wife in his zeal to cement his career. His wife took their baby girl and left him without a word when she reached the end of her patience. Bryan has spent almost twenty years trying to find them. Having failed at marriage once, trying again is the last thing on his mind.

But Keira and Bryan aren't given the chance to fight their feelings for long. The O'Brien family is well-known for their tendency to interfere in the lives of those they care for. Everyone from Nell to Mick, right on down the line can see what is happening, and they all have ideas on how to bring the reluctant duo together. Nell comes up with the bright idea of a cooking competition, with the title of best Irish stew between Keira and Bryan up for grabs. I enjoyed the behind-the-scenes machinations of various O'Briens as they fan the flames of competition. Keira recognizes her growing feelings for Bryan, but her fears hold her back from saying anything. I loved the scene where Bryan finds out the truth and the twist that Keira throws into his declaration. I loved how the competition played out and their big moment at the end was fantastic.

In the midst of all this drama, Bryan receives the shock of his life. His long-lost daughter appears in Chesapeake Shores looking for answers. I loved seeing this side of Bryan as he and Deanna got to know each other. The scene where Deanna finally gets up the courage to face her father had me in tears. I also loved that Keira was there to support him. There are some sweet scenes as Keira helps smooth over the rough spots of their reunion.

As always, I love the secondary appearances of other characters. The bits with Moira and her attempts to balance family and career were realistic and moving. I loved the get-togethers at Sally's as the O'Brien women share their days, and how they embraced Keira as one of their own. I laughed out loud at Mick's antics during the buildup to the competition. Nell was a riot as she involved herself and others in her matchmaking. As Bryan and Keira's boss, Luke had quite the challenge in keeping the peace at the pub. And in the end, the entire town had a part in the romance between Bryan and Keira. It will be interesting to see if there will be further Chesapeake Shores books and who will star in them. I'm leaning toward Deanna, plus the frequent mentions of Keira's estranged sons leaves the door open for them also.