One Wish - Jodi Thomas (Kensington - Nov 2019)

It’s the week before Christmas in Kasota Springs and Maggie Allison is sweeping the floors before closing her shop for the night. But out in the cold darkness three men are keeping a close watch on her movements. Local farmer Sam Thompson is also there in the shadows, ready to step in if need be. Sure enough, when Maggie finds herself cornered by Boss Adler and his men demanding her money and more if she doesn’t cooperate, Sam comes to the rescue. Trouble is, Boss Adler gets away and everyone in town expects he’ll be back for revenge. Forced into hiding on Sam’s ranch, Maggie and Sam discover their distant memories of a childhood friendship promise something more in the present. But the Thompsons are famous for keeping to themselves, and Maggie knows it’ll take more than a moment under the mistletoe to bring Sam to his senses . .

Short and sweet holiday story. Maggie is cleaning up her store, preparing to close for the night, unaware that she is being watched. Outside are three outlaws, intent on robbing her and more. All of them are unaware of Sam's presence. He'd heard the men talking in the saloon and was ready to step in if necessary. While waiting, he remembers back to his childhood. He and Maggie were friends in first grade before her parents sent her away to school. He's never forgotten her and will do what he must to protect her. I loved seeing him take two of the three outlaws out, and felt his frustration when the third got away. That particular outlaw is bad news, and both Sam and the sheriff think that Maggie is in danger until he is caught. Sam insists on taking Maggie to his home for safekeeping.

I loved both Maggie and Sam. Both of them are outsiders in their town. Maggie is a combination of bossy and shy and has no friends. She works in her store, and that is her whole life. For years she has kept a journal, chronicling her hopes and dreams, though they have dwindled over the years. Now she has just one wish - to spend a day with a good and loving man. Sam is the strong, silent type. He is a private man who doesn't share much of himself with anyone, even the relations who live in the same canyon. Neither he nor Maggie has ever had a genuine relationship with anyone and have no idea how to go about it.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Sam and Maggie. Their childhood friendship made it easier for them to give in to their yearning for a connection. I laughed at the idea that they would pretend to be married for the time they were together, as that was surely tempting fate. It was sweet to see Sam's gentleness as he gave in to the urge to kiss Maggie. I loved Maggie's surprise at the feelings he aroused in her, and her willingness to explore them further. Each day they were together, the feelings between them grew stronger.

When danger comes knocking at the door, Sam must find a way to hold it off long enough for Maggie to get away. The confrontation is vicious and dangerous. Sam's life is spared only by the arrival of an unexpected ally. I ached for Maggie, who is left wondering first about his safety, then about whether there is a future for her with Sam. I loved that she knew him well enough to understand that anything more would have to come from him. The ending was sweet and romantic.

The secondary characters were not as well developed, but each had an essential place in the story. I liked the old lady, Nina, and her care for Sam and his son. She was quite the character, and I loved how she also took to Maggie, providing her with excellent advice. The sheriff rubbed me the wrong way from the beginning and proved my instincts right by the end. My favorite was Sam's little boy, Wes. He was an adorable child, and I could see that he was Sam's entire world. I loved how Wes and Maggie took to each other so quickly.

This was my first book by Jodi Thomas, but it won't be my last. She has a fantastic way with descriptions. From the blizzard to the description of Sam's home, it was incredibly easy to picture them as I read. I could feel Maggie's fear as she fled with Wes, and I felt each blow as Sam was beaten by the bad guys.  

*Originally published in A Texas Christmas (Oct 2011)

Behind Closed Doors - Betina Krahn (Kensington - Nov 2019)

Series: Tudor (Book 2)

UNDER THE QUEEN’S EYE . . .

As Queen Elizabeth’s prized new lady-in-waiting, Corrina Huntington is beautiful, innocent, and eager to know the world beyond her sheltered home—especially the mysteries of love. Despite the queen’s vow of protection, Corrie soon finds herself swept into the intrigues of the court, rampant with plots and pleasures—and discovers more than she ever imagined . . .

Manly and magnificent, Count Rugar Kalisson swears vengeance on the insulting, overbearing English who scorn him for his Swedish heritage. He vows to best the vain queen’s knights in contest, and her ladies in seduction—including her latest pet. Love is not part of his plan, yet he and the sheltered English rose are soon drawn together by a reckless passion—a forbidden bond that will not only inflame the wrath of a jealous Queen, but provoke a diplomatic scandal . . .

Good book. I especially enjoyed the setting of this one. Historical romances are overwhelmingly Regency era, but this one takes place mostly at the court of Elizabeth I with a little bit in Sweden. I felt that the portrayal of the intrigue and attitudes of the time were very well done. That said, the first 20% or so of the book dragged a little for me, but once Corrie and Rugar met, the story picked up quite nicely.

Corrie is eighteen years old and has been kept very sheltered by her parents. That comes to an end when Queen Elizabeth stops while on her progress around the country and takes a liking to Corrie. She insists that Corrie becomes one of her maids of honor. This horrifies her parents who are very familiar with the Queen's court and its ways, but they have no choice. Meanwhile, Corrie is thrilled with the opportunity to experience a wider world. It isn't long before Corrie becomes the queen's favorite. There are drawbacks to this, as Elizabeth is very possessive and warns off anyone who threatens her relationship with Corrie - especially the men. In spite of her intelligence and extensive education, Corrie is oblivious to the queen's machinations.

Meanwhile, Rugar is named ambassador to England by the king of Sweden and sent to establish good relations with the queen. This suits him to a T as he has personal reasons for going. As a lad of twelve, Rugar visited the court with his father, who was sent to propose a marriage between Elizabeth and the Swedish king. They were not treated kindly but mocked and derided for their differences. Rugar's father never recovered from the shame he felt at his failure, leaving Rugar burning with the desire for revenge. He arrives at the court determined to beat all the men in their manly contests and to seduce the queen's ladies.

It's at this point that the story picks up interest for me. Rugar is bowled over by his first sight of Corrie and makes her the target of his attentions. He is certain that she is just as immoral as all the other women of the court. Corrie is overwhelmed by Rugar's attentions, having never experienced anything like it. Her forthright nature supports Rugar's assumptions and his single-minded pursuit of her. I really enjoyed their interactions. Corrie's innocent reactions and questions draw Rugar closer to her. He is enchanted by her inquisitive nature and the passion he senses below her surface. As Rugar's attention stirs her senses, Corrie is determined to experience everything that she can. But as she becomes bolder, Rugar has to face the fact that he misjudged Corrie's experience, and tries to pull away. I ached for both of them at this point, because Corrie has fallen hard for Rugar, even though she feels that there is no future in it. Rugar, who has reasons for avoiding innocents, is determined to stay away from her but finds it impossible to do so. Dismayed to realize that he has fallen in love with her, Rugar is determined to protect her, even from himself.

There are outside forces that are determined to interfere. Elizabeth is angered by Rugar's attention to Corrie, even though she warned him off. She sets one of her spies on him, looking for a reason to send him away. Unfortunately, her spy has his own agenda. He has harbored a grudge against Corrie's parents for many years and looks on this a  chance to even the score. When Corrie and Rugar are discovered in a compromising position, Elizabeth's rage knows no bounds.

The last part of the book flew by for me, as Corrie and Rugar escape the queen's attempts to keep them apart and flee to Sweden. I loved Corrie's joy in being there and ached for her as she faced resistance from Rugar's people. It was interesting to see Rugar's reaction to what happened and the effect it had on his view of the past. I was glued to the pages as the queen's fury continued to build and ripped Corrie and Rugar apart. I loved Rugar's determination to get her back, no matter what he had to do. The final showdown with the queen was a nailbiter. I loved Rugar's reaction to her demands and how he regained the upper hand. The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up to the story.

There was also a secondary romance between Corrie's cousin Anne and Rugar's friend Torgne. The sparks flew between them from the start. Torgne, like Rugar, had a low opinion of English morals. Anne, a relatively recent widow, is not ashamed of her needs and gets a great deal of satisfaction out of tempting him. When an unexpected mix-up throws the two of them together, the sparks burst into flame. I loved the scene on the ship as Anne goes all-out to break through Torgne's resistance. With both of them caught up in Elizabeth's outrage, there was some question as to their chances of a future together. I loved the scene at the end, as Rugar suggests the perfect "punishment" for Torgne's crimes.

*Originally published in September 1991

Santa in a Kilt - Donna Kauffman (Zebra - Oct 2019)

Series: Hot Scot Trilogy (Book 3)

The wind-whipped December sands of the isle of Kinloch invigorate Kira McLeod as she sets out to tame rugged Shay Callaghan, a Scottish bachelor as wary of a wedding ring as a snowman is of the hot sun. It'll take all the wiles of the canny islanders to weave a perfect Celtic Christmas for all....

Good story.  Shay is a lawyer who specializes in divorce cases.  As a result he sees the worst of what can happen to a relationship and has sworn that he will not succumb to one himself.  The difficulty is that he has been attracted to Kira for awhile and knows that she isn't the fling type of woman.  When the attraction becomes mutual and overwhelming Shay's thoughts begin to contemplate the future but he is still scared of what could happen.  I loved Kira's acceptance of his feelings and the way she was able to wait so patiently for him to come to terms with his love for her and what it means to him.






*originally published in the anthology Unwrapped by Donna Kauffman, Erin McCarthy, and Kate Angell

His Pregnant Christmas Bride - Olivia Gates (HD #2483 - Nov 2016)

Series: Billionaires of Black Castle (Book 6)

Can a pregnant bride heal this tycoon's tormented past?

Russian billionaire Ivan Konstantinov spent decades struggling with the treachery that almost destroyed him. But when Anastasia Shepherd, the only woman he's ever loved, suffers a near-fatal injury, he risks everything -- even exposure to his betrayers -- to save her.

He intends only to heal her then walk away again, but their explosive passion can't be denied. Then she gives him the ultimate Christmas gift: she's expecting his child. Will the promise of a holiday wedding and a perfect future erase the scars of Ivan's past…or will darker secrets ruin all they hold dear?

This was an intensely emotional book. Ivan is one of those who was taken as a child and raised by "The Organization" to do their bidding. Ivan has spent many years struggling to overcome the feelings of betrayal from his years there. Strangely enough, unlike his "brothers," he doesn't look for revenge against them, he just wants to be able to move on.

The book opens as Ivan watches over Anastasia, who is recovering from an attack that left her brother dead. Ivan and Anastasia have a history together. Seven years earlier, they were lovers until Ivan disappeared from her life without a word. Devastated by the loss of the man she loved, she has devoted herself to the work that she and her brother Alex did together. She had no idea that Ivan watched over her carefully, and was distraught over arriving too late to prevent the attack.

It was evident from the opening pages that Ivan still cared deeply for Anastasia. She is wary around him, knowing that to get close again risked having her heart destroyed. She has no idea of the terrible secret that drove him away seven years earlier. I ached for Ivan, who wants nothing more than to protect Anastasia from anything that could harm her, even himself. I loved seeing the way he supported her through her recovery at the hospital, and the actions he took that ensured those responsible paid for what they did. It didn't take long for Anastasia to realize that her feelings for Ivan had never died and that she would take the risk of being with him for as long as possible.

I loved watching the development of their relationship. Even though to the rest of the world Ivan was a ruthless businessman, around Anastasia he was kind, caring, sweet, and anxious to do anything to make her happy. The passion between them was intense, but Ivan kept rigid control over himself, worried that he would hurt her. I loved watching Anastasia regain her strength and independence under his care. I ached for her as she felt him holding back and had to laugh when she finally had enough of his overprotectiveness. I could also feel her frustration as he resisted every attempt by her to get to know all of him - especially his past. I hurt for Ivan, who was caught between his feelings for Anastasia and his unwillingness to hurt her by telling her everything. He was also afraid that if she knew the full truth about the things he'd done that she would be disgusted and grow to hate him. The depth of her love for him made her persistent in her need to know it all. I cried for them both as she finally succeeded, and he was blown away by her reaction. Just the act of finally having someone to share those feelings with enabled Ivan to let go of those feelings of betrayal and ultimately move past them. But now it was Anastasia who couldn't move past what had been done to him. I loved watching her confront his betrayers on his behalf, her love for him craving justice for what he'd been through. I was stunned by the unexpected twist in the story of his past. The effect on Anastasia was devastating. I loved the support and understanding from Ivan and how it helped her deal with what she learned.

I loved the ending, as five brothers and their wives arrived for Ivan and Anastasia's wedding. I loved seeing all the previous couples together, happy in their marriages and no longer as profoundly haunted by what was done to them. I laughed out loud over the argument over who was the happiest man in existence. The book ended in a cliffhanger about a seventh brother. This is the last book written by Olivia Gates that I know of, and I am dying to know if this brother will ever get his story told.

 

The Highlander's Christmas Bride - Vanessa Kelly (Kensington - Oct 2019)

Series: Clan Kendrick (Book 2)

Being thrown over by the man she expected to marry was humiliating enough. Now that Donella Haddon, grandniece of the Earl of Riddick, has also proven a failure as a nun, she has no choice but to return to her family’s estate. The brawny Highlander sent to escort her is brash, handsome, and the only thing standing between Donella and a gang of would-be kidnappers. But the scandal in her past can’t be so easily outrun . . .

Wealthy widower Logan Kendrick was expecting to meet a plain, pious spinster—not a gorgeous, sharp-tongued lass who can hold her own in any ambush. Though she’s known as the Flower of Clan Graham, Donella is no shrinking violet. In fact, she might be the perfect woman to bring happiness back to his lonely little son’s life, just in time for Christmas.  But first he must protect her from ugly gossip and a mysterious threat—and convince her that their wild, unexpected desire is heaven sent.

Fun book about two people who need to overcome guilty feelings about past events before they can accept that they can have a happy future together. From the moment they met, the sparks flew between Logan and Donella. Logan wants the Earl of Riddick to enter into a business relationship with him, so he agrees to escort the man's grandniece from a convent to her family's home. He's stunned to find a beautiful and feisty woman instead of a plain and pious spinster. Donella entered the convent three years earlier after a series of events that caused a scandal. A month from taking her vows, the Reverend Mother has told her she's unsuited to being a nun (cue "How Do You Solve a Problem Like Donella?).

I liked both Logan and Donella. Donella is feisty and independent. She also loves her family and wants to keep them from having to deal with the fallout from her scandal. She can be brash and blunt and has no problem expressing her opinions to Logan. Having lost her place at the convent, she's not sure what's in store for her future. I ached for her as bits of her story were revealed throughout the book, leaving her doubtful of her worth. Logan is a good man with a painful past. He desperately wants to be a good father to his son, but events from his past make it awkward for him as he tries to reconnect with Joseph and the rest of his family.

I thoroughly enjoyed the development of the relationship between Logan and Donella. The banter between them was snappy and fun to follow. When their carriage was attacked by another clan who wanted to kidnap Donella, Logan refused to cooperate. I loved seeing them have to work together to escape. As the circumstances threw them together, the sparks between them flared hotter, but neither was willing to give in to them. Logan has no intention of marrying again, and Donella hopes to find another convent to go to. It was exciting to see their escape play out, especially with the lengths that Logan went to to disguise her identity. I laughed out loud when help finally arrived, and they had to do some fast talking to avoid a forced marriage. They parted, thinking they wouldn't see each other again.

But Fate wasn't done with them. Donella's uncle refuses to let her run away to another convent just yet and sends her off to Glasgow to help with family Christmas preparations. Since she needs a chaperone, she's sent to stay with her cousin Victoria - who just happens to be Logan's sister-in-law. From the moment they meet again it's evident to everyone around them that there is something between them. When Logan's son and grandfather arrive unexpectedly from Canada, Logan is surprised by how quickly Joseph and Donella bond. As Logan discovers that Donella brings light and laughter back into his life, he decides that he'd like to keep her in his life.

Meanwhile, Donella is surprised by the effect that Logan has on her, but she has secrets that keep her from believing that she is suitable for him. I enjoyed seeing them grow closer, first building something of a friendship in their mutual care of Joseph. The attraction also continued to build. I enjoyed seeing Logan try to work past Donella's walls. The scene at the ball, where he and Donella were caught together was pretty funny. I loved Logan's support of Donella when she finally confessed all of her secrets.

Though Logan and Donella are ready to embrace their future, her past isn't quite done with her. When a man with a grudge succeeds in kidnapping her, it's up to Logan to find her before it's too late. The final confrontation was both intense and funny, as the kidnapper's plans are foiled by a surprise twist. The actions of several highly volatile Highland men left me laughing and shaking my head, especially when it took a woman to bring them under control. I loved the epilogue and seeing the happiness that both Logan and Donella found together.

I will definitely go back and read the first book in the series as soon as possible and look forward to further books about the Kendricks. They are sure to be just as fun. The only issue I had with this book was the occasional use of anachronistic words or phrases, but it didn't diminish my enjoyment by much.

 

Personal Protection - Julie Miller (HI #1873 - Aug 2019)

This undercover mission was clear…

until one life-altering moment changed everything.

Ivan Mostek's visit to Kansas City should have been a camera-friendly bit of international diplomacy -- except someone wants him dead. And Carly Valentine pretending to be his girlfriend might be the only thing that can keep him safe. But this is a mission like none the experienced cop has ever trained for. One in which fake feelings could turn into something all too real.

I love Julie Miller's books. They consistently manage to suck me in and keep me enthralled from start to finish. That said, this one has quickly become one of my favorites, with the unlikely pairing of a royal prince and an undercover cop. Ivan recently took over leadership of his country after the former regime was finally overthrown, ending decades of brutal leadership. Ivan is committed to bringing prosperity back to his country, but someone is equally determined to stop the changes he tries to implement. When a bomb derails his plans for an economic summit in his country, Ivan moves his talks to Kansas City. Ivan suspects that someone inside his circle is behind the attacks, and meets privately with the head of KCPD to request some unusual help. He would like to borrow an undercover cop who can expose the traitor. The catch is that he wants a female who can play the part of his girlfriend while conducting the investigation.

I liked both Carly and Ivan. Carly is a kick-ass undercover cop. She is in her element when she is on the street, helping to keep her city safe. She also has a close relationship with her father and brothers. What she doesn't have is much confidence in herself in social situations, where she always feels awkward. Ivan is a great guy. He feels very strongly about his duty to his country and has given up a lot to fulfill his new role. He is kind, often sweet, and has an endearing geekiness that occasionally makes an appearance. He also has no problem asserting his authority when he needs to.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Carly and Ivan. They first met in an elevator at the police station when she was bringing in a criminal. Ivan was impressed with how the relatively small woman handled the perp's attitude and attempted escape, and thought that she was exactly what he needed. It was funny to see her reaction to his request. Even more fun were the reactions of her father and brothers when her "date" showed up at her house. It's clear that not only are there intense sparks between Carly and Ivan, there is also an unexpected connection. I loved Ivan's strength and support when her brother ends up in the hospital and seeing Carly lean on that strength. I also enjoyed seeing the push and pull between them as Carly asserts herself as his bodyguard, and Ivan wants to protect her. As they worked together to find out who is behind the threats and attacks, the attraction and feelings between them grow stronger. I ached for Carly as she realized her feelings and that there was no chance of a future for them. Ivan, too, had fallen for Carly, but obstacles were keeping them apart. I loved the ending as an unexpected twist changed everything. Ivan's big moment at the end was fantastic as he finally got his wish of being loved for himself.

The suspense of the story was great and kept me glued to the pages from beginning to end. From the prologue and the attempted assassination to the final confrontation, I was wholly invested in trying to figure out who had it in for Ivan. Was it his head of security, Filip, who had the most opportunities and was often overzealous in his actions? Perhaps his chief of staff, Galina, whose fiancé died in that first attempt, and who always knows where Ivan will be at any time? Or perhaps Danya, Ivan's bodyguard, who has some serious attitude problems? Then there was Ivan's best friend, Aleks. Do his flirtatious and lighthearted ways hide something darker? Not knowing who they could trust made things much harder for Carly and Ivan. As written threats appeared out of nowhere and attacks escalated the closer they came to the embassy ball, Carly and Ivan had to depend on each other. They made a fantastic team. The final confrontation had me on the edge of my seat as the assassin made their final play. Unexpected revelations changed some of the dynamics, and kick-ass Carly got in the last licks.

 

Military Grade Mistletoe - Julie Miller (HI #1751 - Dec 2017)

Series: Precinct (Book 31)

She saved his life when everything was hopeless. He's determined to return the favor.

Not even Master Sergeant Harry Lockhart's military expertise could stop the IED that killed his team and left him injured. Only Daisy Gunderson -- a pen pal he'd never met -- and her kind letters helped him survive. But Daisy in the flesh is the surly Marine's polar opposite. She's outgoing, talkative and putting his military training on high alert. A stalker named Secret Santa is targeting the kindhearted teacher…and the pranks are growing deadly.

In Daisy, Harry's finally found the safe haven he needs. And he'll be damned if anyone is going to take her from him.

Terrific book that I read in one sitting. It opens with Harry, who was injured by an IED, being told by his doctor that he needs to take some time off to deal with everything that has happened to him. Once he has gotten "his head on straight," the Marine Corps will decide if he is ready to go back on duty or if he will be discharged. I ached for Harry because, other than his sister Hope, the Marines have been his home and his family for seventeen years. He can't picture his life outside the Corps. One thing that he believes will help is meeting Daisy, the pen pal whose letters were an integral part of his survival. He has a mental picture of the "angel" who he believes can help him heal.

Daisy is a high school English teacher. She is outgoing, friendly, and has a huge heart. She loves bringing out the best in her students and helping them achieve their goals. She has also received creepy gifts from someone who calls himself "Secret Santa." These gifts stir up old memories of the ex-boyfriend who tried to kill her several years earlier.

I loved the first meeting between Harry and Daisy. He showed up on her doorstep just as she had spotted suspicious footprints in the snow outside her home. Though initially nervous about the stranger at her door, once she found out who he was, her attitude changed completely. I loved her joy at finally meeting him, and how she hugged him so fiercely. Poor Harry was confused and overwhelmed. She wasn't anything like his mental picture of her, which upended his plan to have her help him. But even as he worked to extricate himself from her, he could see that something bothered her. I liked that she was comfortable enough with him to ask for his help. What he found made his protectiveness kick in.

I loved the development of the relationship between Daisy and Harry. His protectiveness won't let him leave her vulnerable, and he insists on staying close to her. That closeness also opens him up to her caring nature, and it isn't long before the walls around his heart start to crumble. I loved her empathy for the things he's going through and how she shares her experiences to help him work through his pain. Thanks to the letters they had exchanged, there was already a deep friendship between them. Added to that is their intense attraction to each other. I loved seeing that attraction bloom and with it a deeper connection. Harry has some trouble believing that Daisy would want a physically and mentally messed up guy like him, but Daisy is unwavering in her belief in him. The ending was deeply emotional, and I loved Harry's gift to Daisy.

The suspense of the story was fantastic. The creepiness of the "gifts" that Daisy received was chilling, and the fear they caused her was palpable. The escalation of the stalker's activities added to the tension. The scene after the basketball game showed the danger that Daisy was in. The identity of the stalker came as a surprise as it was not the one I thought it was. The final confrontation was a nail-biter and had me glued to the pages until it was all over. Harry's part in it was fantastic, and I loved his unexpected partner.

I loved all of Daisy's rescue dogs, but the one who really had my heart was Caliban. I loved the way he took to Harry, which also helped Harry with his grief over the loss of his dog. There were some terrific scenes with Harry and the dogs. I also loved seeing various characters from previous books show up in this one. First and foremost was Harry's sister, Hope, and her husband (Task Force Bride). Assorted members of the KCPD made their appearances during the investigation into the stalker.

 

Homeplace - JoAnn Ross (Pocket - Mar 1999)

Series: Coldwater Cove (Book 1)

Fighting legal battles eighty hours a week has left Raine Cantrell burned out and empty. Although she once dreamed that success might make the father who walked away without a backward glance take notice, the high-powered big-city lawyer now finds herself feeling very alone. Then she gets an urgent call from three kids in trouble in her Washington State hometown, and suddenly Raine is returning to face unresolved feelings, unhealed wounds -- and an unexpected desire.

Sheriff Jack O' Halloran, a man with a tragedy in his past and a six-year-old daughter to raise alone, has three teens barricaded inside a house and the media clamoring for a story. He isn't ready for Raine to invade his territory -- or his thoughts. And Raine isn't ready for anyone to touch her heart.

Unable to deny their attraction to each other, their solution is adult, reasonable -- and totally foolish. They decide to have a simple affair. But they are about to discover that love is rarely simple -- and that lives can change forever in a single heartbeat.

Good book. Raine is a high-powered, workaholic lawyer. At the beginning of the book, she has just won a big case, but instead of the satisfaction she should feel, she just feels empty and beat up by the headaches and indigestion that come with the job. In the middle of the celebration, Raine receives a phone call from one of her grandmother's foster children. Her grandmother is in the hospital, and the three girls are in trouble. Suddenly she's on her way back to the small town to help the woman who was the only stable factor in her life.

I admit I didn't like Raine much at the beginning. Her satisfaction at winning the case, at the expense of the retirees who were harmed by it, rubbed me the wrong way. I applauded her immediate response to the call for help, but I didn't like the way she jumped to conclusions about what was happening during the stand-off. I got a bit of satisfaction when she arrived and found things were not what she expected, especially when it came to the sheriff.

I liked Jack from the start. His handling of the stand-off was well thought out. I'm glad he was the one in charge, because the other law enforcement people who were there were a bit too gung-ho, especially considering they were dealing with three young girls. He also won my heart when he was shown taking care of his daughter's nano-pet at the same time. I loved his even-keeled responses when Raine showed up and started throwing around accusations and threats. Things got a bit more complicated when they also had to deal with Raine's mother's antics.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Raine and Jack. The sparks between them were hot from the beginning, but both tried to ignore them. Raine only plans to be in town for a few days, just long enough to straighten things out before she heads back to New York. Jack is still grieving the loss of his wife two years earlier, so he's not looking for anything either. However, something about Raine stirs up things he hasn't felt in a long time. As circumstances forced Raine to stay in Coldwater Cove longer than she expected, she and Jack can no longer deny the attraction they feel. I had to laugh when they decided that they could indulge in a nice, simple affair because I could already see that they'd passed that point. Jack is already falling for Raine as he gets to know the passionate woman underneath the tough façade. I loved the way that he understood how the things in her past had made her need to always be in control. Raine is a bit freaked out by the way that Jack gets under her skin. She never expected to be so drawn to him and his daughter, and tries to convince herself that it is just chemistry and proximity. There were some terrific scenes of the two of them together, especially as Raine starts to lose her city edges, and Jack brings out an unexpected softer side of her. I enjoyed seeing their feelings grow and ached for them both as they tried to figure out how they could make it work. I wasn't too surprised by the solution they came up with and loved their big moment at the end. The epilogue was terrific.

For Raine, being back in her hometown forces her to face the demons of her past, mostly her relationship with her mother. Lilith is quite the free spirit, and it was easy to see why the two butted heads for so long. But with distance and maturity, and the help of three teenage girls, Raine starts to see a different side of her mother. It's not a miraculous, hearts and flowers kind of thing, but more like Raine being able to see that she and Lilith had two very different views on their mother and child relationship and Lilith recognizing that she had made mistakes but wanted to do better.

I also enjoyed the storyline with the three teenage girls. Their actions at the beginning were a bit extreme, but they were motivated by Ida and what she told them. The situation became more difficult thanks to Ida's age, and then Lilith's actions at the court hearing. I liked the fact that Raine was willing to step up and be the responsible adult to keep the girls out of a more desperate situation. I especially liked Gwen's story and the realistic portrayal of the issues surrounding teen pregnancy. I ached for Gwen and her struggle to decide the best thing to do. Lilith's openness about her past actions went a long way toward helping Gwen, as well as Raine. The resolution was heart-wrenching and heartwarming, as everyone came together to help Gwen make the choice that was right for her. 

 

Gambling on the Artist - Wynter Daniels (CPC Publishing - Oct 2019)

Series: Cat's Paw Cove (Book 3)

Artist Samantha Cartwright arrives in Cat's Paw Cove for a visit with her great Aunt Emma, hoping to get clarity about Emma's cryptic prediction. Instead, Sam finds out she must mind her aunt's metaphysical shop while Emma is away on vacation. The temporary job proves impossible for Sam because unlike Emma, Sam possesses no magical powers. Lucky for her, tall, dark, and handsome help enters the shop just in the nick of time.

Eli Kincaid managed to get on the bad side of a ruthless loan shark. Now his life depends upon his ability to con an innocent woman out of the only thing of value she owns -- a precious jewel she inherited. If he can get close to Sam, maybe he can figure out where she's keeping the gem. What he hadn't counted on was falling for his mark. Can he escape the web of deception and protect Sam as sinister forces close in on both of them?

Fun book. Sam arrives in Cat's Paw Cove expecting to spend time with her Aunt Emma. Instead, Emma has left on vacation, leaving Sam in charge of her shop. This puts Sam in a tough spot because she has none of Emma's magical powers. She's grateful for the tall, dark, and hunky guy who steps up to give her a hand. Unknown to her, Eli isn't just a chance acquaintance. A professional gambler, a run of bad luck put Eli at the mercy of a loan shark. His debt will be forgiven if Eli acquires (through fair means or foul) the sapphire brooch that Sam inherited from her father. All he has to do is get close enough to find it.

I liked both Sam and Eli. Sam is an incredible artist with very little confidence in herself. Her childhood was spent with a mother who always put her down. The only good parts were the times she spent with her Aunt Emma, who encouraged Sam's creativity. Sam went out on her own when she was seventeen, determined to make it on her own. She knows she has made mistakes, but she learns from them and moves on. Eli is a good guy at heart. His childhood wasn't all that great either, and when his mother died he was raised by his older sister. He may be a gambler, but he's an honest one until this situation puts his sister's life at risk.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Sam and Eli. There are sparks between them from the start, but Sam is wary. She's been hurt before by men who have lied and cheated, so trusting Eli won't be easy. Eli lays the charm on pretty thick, which works against him a bit. Once he dials it back a little, Sam is more willing to accept his help in the shop. I liked watching them get to know each other and share bits of their pasts. This posed a problem for Eli because he quickly realized that he was falling for her. When the threats against him extend to his sister and Sam, Eli knows he has to do something to end it. There were some intense moments when the bad guys show up in Cat's Paw Cove, and Eli has some decisions to make. I ached for Sam when she learned the truth. I liked the way that everything worked out. The epilogue was great.

I enjoyed seeing more of the town's residents. Each one is intriguing, which leaves me hoping that they all get stories of their own. I especially enjoyed seeing more of Jordan and her ability to communicate with animals.

The Right Reason to Marry - Christine Rimmer (HSE #2731 - Dec 2019)

Series: Bravos of Valentine Bay (Book 6)
            Bravo Family Ties (Book 57)

She turned him down. Twice.

Karin Killigan refuses to marry Liam Bravo solely for the sake of their pending baby. This time, the widowed mother of two is holding out for true lasting love. And even though she is knee-deep in kids and family chaos, Karin and Liam’s attraction is hotter than ever, but Karin won’t settle. Liam will have to prove he’s in it for love if he wants a family for his baby’s first Christmas.

This was a fantastic and emotional book that opens with Liam Bravo getting the shock of his life. A chance encounter with the woman he had a very brief relationship with earlier in the year reveals that she is pregnant - very pregnant. Once he recovers his wits, Liam knows he wants to be involved in his baby's life.

Karin kept putting off telling Liam about his impending fatherhood. She knows he's a good man, and she's sure that he will want to do "the right thing." The problem is that she's already had one marriage for that reason and it didn't work out very well. There's no way she's going to risk her heart again for anything but real, lasting love.

Liam does exactly what Karin feared and proposes marriage. While he's not happy about being turned down, he is undeterred in his desire to be part of the baby's life. He also figures that he will keep trying to bring Karin around to his way of thinking. One of the things I loved about Liam is that when he makes a decision, he goes all in. Rather than trying to handle his involvement from his home in Astoria, he rents the cottage next door to Karin from her brother, Sten (Switched at Birth). Karin isn't happy about it because it keeps Liam far too close for her peace of mind. I loved watching Liam's transformation from carefree bachelor to daddy. The scenes with him and baby Riley, or RG as he calls him, are adorable. He also gets close to Karin's father and her two children. But his main desire is to show Karin that they belong together.

Karin has a tough time keeping distance between herself and Liam. Everything he does shows her that he could be the man to make her happy. But her first marriage left her wary of trusting her judgment when it comes to her feelings. She had loved Bud with all her young heart, but he wasn't ready to be a father and husband. He withdrew, spending more time away than with the family, and even when he was home he wasn't really there.

I loved seeing the development of the relationship between Liam and Karin. Karin ended their earlier relationship when the intensity of her feelings scared her, exacerbated by the discovery that she was pregnant. She was afraid that if she told Liam about the pregnancy, she wouldn't be able to resist him and would repeat her mistakes. In spite of the breakup, neither Liam nor Karin forgot what it was like when they were together. From the moment Liam found out about the baby, he was there for Karin, day in and day out. The more time they spent together, the deeper their connection grew. They also discovered that their attraction was just as strong as it had ever been.

I think Karin frustrated me almost as much as she frustrated Liam. She welcomes him into her home and her life, encouraging him to spend as much time as possible with Riley. But at the same time, she tries desperately to keep her distance emotionally. Even when they give in to the attraction between them, Karin insists on keeping it a secret. Every time that Liam tries to talk about the future, she shuts him down. I ached for Liam, who realized that he loved her and wanted to marry her and make a family with her, but could not break through the walls she had around her heart. I hurt for Karin, too, because part of her knew she was falling for Liam, but she could not let go of her fears. My heart broke for both of them when she panicked over his second proposal. I liked the advice that Liam got from Daniel that helped him hang on to hope. But my favorite was the advice that Karin received from her brother Sten, who capped it off with the comment, "Super painful, isn't it? When your own words come back to bite you in the ass..." I loved Karin and Liam's big moment at the end, especially seeing Karin finally put the past behind her and believe in their love.

I loved the secondary characters, too. Karin's dad, Otto, was terrific. I liked the way that he and Liam bonded, and how he supported both of them. I liked his subtle and not-so-subtle ways of throwing Karin and Liam together. Liam's family was great in the way that they supported Liam in his efforts to win Karin over. I especially liked how they already considered Karin and her kids family because of Sten's marriage to Madison. My favorites were Karin's kids, Ben and Coco. Ben is such a serious little boy, mature for his age, but also showing unexpected vulnerability. His man-to-man talk with Liam was sweet but also heartbreaking in what it revealed. Coco was a trip. Her variety of superhero personas was fun, as was her boundless enthusiasm for everything. I laughed out loud at her lunch with Liam and the story of the leftovers. I loved seeing them wiggle their way into Liam's heart.

 

Fierce Justice - Piper J. Drake (Grand Central - Feb 2019)

Series: True Heroes (Book 5)

As a K9 handler on the Search and Protect team, Arin Siri needs to be where the action is--and right now that's investigating a trafficking operation in Hawaii. When an enemy from her past shows up bleeding, she's torn between the desire to patch Jason up or put more holes in him. Then again, the hotshot mercenary could be the person she needs to bust open her case.

Jason Landon's team had always been about taking the contract, getting paid, and not asking questions. But after his last mission went south, he started to get curious. His questions quickly drove him out of his mercenary group and off the grid. Now, the only people he can think of to help him are the Search and Protect team -- and the dark beauty who is as ready to kill him as she is to bed him. And he's totally ready to risk the former for the chance at the latter. But he isn't the only person with a target on his back. Arin's in danger too, and he'll do everything he can to keep her safe.

Good book. It starts a few months after the end of the previous book (Total Bravery). Though this one is connected to the last book, it can be read as a standalone as earlier events are seamlessly explained. Arin (Ah-rin) and her dog King are part of a team that continues to investigate human trafficking in Hawaii. She's surprised to stumble across a former foe unconscious and bleeding and not very happy to have to abort her mission to get him to safety. But considering where she saw him last, he may have information vital to their investigation.

When Jason comes to, he's surprised to find Arin standing guard in his hospital room. The last time he saw her, they were on opposites sides of a mission. But the things she told him made him question his actions and ticked off the wrong people. Now he's on a quest to bring down a kidnapping ring and maybe make up for some of those past actions. It's too much for one man alone to handle, and the Search and Protect team are the only ones who might be able to help him.

I liked the combination of personal and professional relationships between Arin and Jason. Neither one was able to forget the other after their last meeting, and Jason at least was happy to get to spend some time with Arin. She isn't too sure that she can trust him, and the hoops she made him jump through at first both annoyed and amused him. Jason will do whatever he needs to to get their help in stopping the kidnapping ring. That it meshes well with their trafficking investigation is a bonus.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Arin and Jason. She is tough, independent, and sometimes abrasive, but she also has a vulnerable side that she hides well. Jason hasn't always been too concerned about the morality of the jobs he took, but the last one made him take a closer look at himself. Determined to do better, Jason puts himself at Arin's disposal. He is smart, thinks fast on his feet, and is very observant. I loved how well he understood Arin. He saw the vulnerability that she hid from everyone else, but he also appreciated her strength and capabilities. It was awesome to see that he could be protective without trying to hold her back. Arin was stunned to realize that Jason had gotten under her skin. His acceptance of her just as she was is something she'd never experienced before. Underneath it all was an explosive attraction that neither one could resist. As they grew closer physically and emotionally, each of them wondered what would become of what they had. The ending had a twist I didn't see coming but was exactly right for them.

The suspense was terrific. The wariness between Arin and Jason at first added an extra layer of tension to the investigation. Their partnership in the first rescue went a long way toward resolving their trust issues. I was on the edge of my seat as they found the first set of victims, and Arin had to rely on Jason's skills to prevent a tragedy. I liked their teamwork as their investigation led them to the identity of the new head of the trafficking ring. The actual takedown was a nailbiter as Jason went undercover to get the proof they needed. But it wasn't quite over, as there was still another "shipment" that had to be found. The author's descriptions of that rescue were so vivid that I felt as though I was there, from the sights and smells to the heart-pounding terror of the victims themselves. Once again Jason and Arin made an outstanding team and brought all to a satisfying conclusion. There was a neat bit at the end that looks like it may be the lead-in to the next book and I can't wait to read it.

One of my favorite characters was Arin's K9 partner, King. I loved the intensity of their bond. King was one of the few beings that Arin trusted unconditionally. I enjoyed her surprise at the way King took to Jason. This made it a little easier for her to start to trust Jason. There were a couple of good scenes between Jason and King. I especially liked the one where Jason took King out for a walk while Arin slept.

Another important part of the book was the continued repairing of the relationship between Arin and her sister Mali. There were several times when Mali irritated me with her attitude toward Arin. She really had a hard time accepting Arin the way she was. Her instructions to Arin for the reception made me think that she still didn't respect her sister's choices. It made me understand why Arin always felt so out-of-step with her own family. I was doubly glad that Jason was there to support her.

 

The Giving Heart - Toni Blake (HQN - Nov 2019)

Series: Summer Island (Book 2)

Spend a white Christmas on Summer Island, where the fires are warm and the romance is hotter

Lila Sloan is house-sitting for her sister, Meg, who owns an inn on Summer Island—it seemed like the perfect getaway. Now Lila wonders why she ever thought spending Christmas alone on an isolated island was a good idea. To make matters worse, local real estate developer Beck Grainger is trying to cut down the beautiful trees that line Meg’s property. Lila can’t let this happen; Meg will never forgive her.

Beck can understand Lila’s anger—sort of. The trees are on the neighboring property, not Meg’s, and the land was zoned for residential use months ago. His plans were no secret. He dislikes being at odds with his friend’s sister, though, especially because Lila is appealing in every way: loyal, quick-witted and completely stunning.

Lila hates that she’s so attracted to Beck, who seems like a genuinely good man, despite his tree-murdering tendencies. And their chemistry is off the charts. She just wishes he’d let this development go. As Summer Island counts down to a snowy Christmas, Lila and Beck will have to strike a compromise that seems impossible for them both—or risk losing the best thing either of them has ever had.

Good continuation of the series. It opens with a rush as Lila, who is inn-sitting for her older sister Meg, sees a bulldozer knocking down trees behind the inn. She rushes out in her pajamas and slippers determined to stop it. There she encounters Beck, real estate developer, and owner of the land. She's stunned to hear of the plans to build houses on that hill and furious over what it will mean to the inn. She's determined to stop him in his tracks. Beck, who made his first appearance in the previous book (TheOne Who Stays) has had these plans in the works for months. He's not too happy about Lila's attempts to interfere, but with the weather being bad he believes he has time to change her mind. Neither one counts on the intense attraction between them.

I liked both Lila and Beck, though Lila had her moments when she really irritated me. She came to Summer Island for two reasons. First, to give her sister Meg, who owns the inn, a chance to leave the island for a few weeks with her boyfriend. Second, she is looking for peace since losing her job when her boss took exception to her resisting his unwanted advances. Lila feels that she was a bad sister to Meg when Meg went through her medical problems years earlier and, as a result, is determined to protect the inn and the family legacy. She also struggles with the belief that she handled the situation with her boss all wrong. Though she believes herself to be a selfish person, Lila is actually a woman with a lot to give. Beck is a self-made man who is looking to find some peace of his own at the same time he brings progress to the island community. Dealing with the recent death of his father, he faces regrets over their estrangement. His way of life versus his father's drove a wedge between them that kept Beck from spending much time with his family.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Beck and Lila. The sparks were there from the moment they met. Despite the circumstances, Lila can't help but notice Beck as a sexy man. As much as her actions irritate him, Beck is intrigued and attracted to the woman in the PJs and slippers trying to stop a bulldozer. Lila is determined to stay angry at him, and Beck wants to win her over. There is a rollercoaster of emotions as their attraction pulls them together, but Lila's feelings about his plans cause her to push him away. I loved the scene with the Christmas tree, as Beck tries to soften her anger. Lila desperately tries to hang on to her anger, but Beck's kindness and persistence chips away at it. But when the passion that flares between them explodes, Lila is beset with guilt over "sleeping with the enemy" and pushes him away. Over the next couple of weeks, they are constantly drawn together. In spite of their differences in the matter of the trees, in everything else they are well-matched. I loved how they shared their problems with each other. It was heartwarming to see how Beck believed and supported Lila over her situation with her ex-boss and the difference it made to Lila's feelings about herself. Beck also shared his feelings about his father with Lila, and talking to her gave him the boost he needed to face his past. I ached for them both as their feelings for each other grew, but the issue of the trees remained between them. The ending was terrific as they both learned the value of compromise. Their big moment had a feeling of "The Gift of the Magi" about it.

There were a few subplots going on also. My favorite was Beck's friendship with the little boy who lived next door. Five-year-old Cade was adorable, and I loved the way he brought out the lighter side of Beck. The snowman building scene was sweet and fun. When a blizzard stranded everyone for Christmas, I loved how Beck made sure that Cade's holiday wasn't ruined. Beck also featured in a subplot with Suzanne. He was interested in her in the first book, but because she was still grieving her late husband, she resisted his interest. In this one she begins to soften toward him, leaving Beck caught between two women. Dahlia also has someone special in her life, but issues of her own prevent her from letting it progress past a certain point. I hope to see more of this relationship in the next book.

Part of this book also dealt with Lila and the situation with her boss. Her feelings about what happened and how she handled it are very realistic. I ached for her and her hurt over her friend's reaction, and her reluctance to tell her family what happened. I liked the effect her relationship with Beck had on her outlook and her decisions about the future. I would have liked to get a little more detail about the results of those decisions.

Snowblind Justice - Cindi Myers (HI #1889 - Nov 2019)

Series: Eagle Mountain Murder Mystery: Winter Storm Wedding (Book 4)
            Eagle Mountain Murder Mystery (Book 8)

A killer stalks Eagle Mountain…

And a visiting lawman is determined to protect the next target…

Emily Walker is back home for her brother's wedding. The joyous occasion is marred by a blizzard, a murderer on the loose…and Brodie Langtry, the man who broke her heart. As he searches for the Ice Cold Killer, Brodie becomes convinced that Emily is his next target. How can he protect a woman who wants nothing to do with him -- a woman he's terrified to let out of his sight?

This book is the gripping conclusion to the EagleMountain Murder Mystery: Winter Storm Wedding series. The tension built from the beginning of the first book when both a serial killer and a winter storm hit Eagle Mountain at the same time. Throughout the series, the Ice Cold Killer took every opportunity to taunt the sheriff's department over his ability to elude capture while continuing his killing spree. The sheriff's department is understandably frustrated. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation sent Brodie to assist in the investigation.

Brodie and Emily, the sheriff's sister, have a history. Five years earlier, they were a couple until Emily rejected Brodie's proposal, and they went their separate ways. A short time later, Emily wrote him a later that he never responded to. Brokenhearted, she wrote him off and tried to forget him and move on with her life. She is stunned to see him back in town, and not too happy to discover that she still has feelings for him.

I enjoyed the rekindling of the relationship between Brodie and Emily. Brodie, too, was heartbroken by Emily's rejection. He's surprised to realize that his feelings for her are just as strong and is determined to clear the air with her and see if there is a chance for them. It won't be easy, as Emily puts up walls between them. In a bid to spend time with her, Brodie involves Emily in the investigation. Emily tried hard to resist the sparks that still flew between them, but it was a losing battle. The scene where they finally talked about the past was deeply emotional and broke down the barriers between them, allowing their attraction to ignite. The morning after scene was great, too, especially Brodie's conversation with her brother, Travis. Brodie and Emily continue to grow closer as the investigation continues. When tragedy nearly parts them forever, I loved how both realized that they had matured enough to see the mistakes of the past and overcome the fears that had parted them. I loved their big moment at the end.

The suspense of the story was fantastic. We learned the identity of the killer at the end of the previous book (Cold Conspiracy). This book is taken up with the efforts to capture him. Brodie's arrival and Emily's involvement bring fresh eyes to the problem. As the killer escalates his activities, Brodie finds information that convinces him that Emily is the next target. There are more deaths, and the sense of impending danger continues to build, and Brodie becomes more intent on keeping Emily safe. The final confrontation had me glued to the pages as the killer made his ultimate play. There were moments when I wondered how Brodie was going to free Emily. I loved how she kept her head and played an essential part in making it happen.

The other storyline that ran through all four books was that of the wedding of Travis and Lacy (Saved by the Sheriff). Between the serial killer keeping Travis busy, and the multiple storms and avalanches isolating Eagle Mountain from the rest of the world, there was some question as to whether the wedding would happen on schedule or not. Complicating matters, the killer struck during two of the pre-wedding activities. I loved seeing how determined everyone was to make sure that nothing would stop it. I had to laugh at the unexpected turn it took, but loved it anyway.

 

A Witch in Time - Catherine Kean, Wynter Daniels (CPC Publishing - Sept 2019)

Series: Cat's Paw Cove (Book 1)

Welcome to Cat’s Paw Cove, Florida—an enchanting seaside town and favorite tourist destination. But there’s something unusual about the locals, both human and feline. The popular Shipwreck Museum might just take you back in time, and the historic Sherwood House holds secrets, old and new. Adopt a furever friend at the Cove Cat Café, treat yourself to a psychic reading at Eye of Newt metaphysical shop, pick up a special trinket from Black Cat Antiquities. And don’t be surprised if you find your heart in the magic of Cat’s Paw Cove.

In a violent storm in 1645, Colin Wilshire’s Barbados-bound ship is swept off course. He’s sure he and his pregnant bride are fated to drown when he’s tossed into the sea. He wakes in a strange land and is saved by a blue-haired angel.

Twenty-first-century witch and cat rescuer Luna Halpern has fallen for more than her share of unsuitable guys—including one with a long-distance fiancé, and another who was more interested in other dudes than in Luna. Finally, a safe, drama-free guy is interested in her, and she’s confident that she’ll muster up an attraction to him. When she stumbles upon a handsome, mysterious man who speaks oddly, seems not to know where he is, or even what century it is, her first instinct is to help him.

Certain he’s either stuck in a crazy dream or in limbo between life and death, Colin stays close to Luna. As his feelings for her grow, he’s forced to choose between his obligations in the past and his hopes for the future.

Fun start to a new series. Luna is a twenty-first-century witch, baker, and cat rescuer. She also has terrible luck with men. This year, for Founders Day, she is determined to avoid repeating past mistakes. But when she stumbles across a man who is a dead ringer for the one who has haunted her dreams, her good intentions go right out the window.

Colin is very confused. The last thing he remembers is being on a ship bound for Barbados, along with his pregnant wife. He's looking to start a new life and get away from the troubles he inherited. A freak storm washed him overboard, and now he's in a world he doesn't recognize. If not for the blue-haired angel who comes to his rescue he would be in even deeper trouble.

I liked both Luna and Colin. Colin is an honorable man who wants to make a good life for himself and his pregnant wife. Even when tossed overboard, he attempts to save others before being sucked underwater. He's understandably confused when he stumbles out of the water into a strange new world. His reactions are fun to see. Luna is a talented baker and also runs a cat rescue. She's a bit tired of dealing with the weirdos that come out for Founders Day, but she'll deal with it. I liked how she thought Colin was just another of them and wanted to help anyway.

It was fun to watch the relationship develop between Colin and Luna. There were sparks between them from the start, but Colin was determined to get back to his own time. I liked seeing the two together as they were drawn to each other. Colin was surprised by his unexpected jealousy and wondered what it indicated about his relationship with his wife. As they worked together to get Colin onto the Ship Museum, the connection between them grew. There are some surprising twists in store that will affect Colin's plans for the future.

There is also a bit of suspense as there are rumors that there is a treasure aboard the museum ship. Colin wants to see if the item he hid on board is still there. They run into unexpected trouble, and the confrontation is pretty intense. The identity of the culprit is a surprise. I liked Colin's decision about the item he found. The epilogue was great, and I loved the surprise he added to his latest invention.

This was an entertaining read, and I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.

 

Secrets of a Highland Warrior - Nicole Locke (HH #1446 - July 2019)

Series: Lochmore Legacy (Book 4)

The key to his past…

…lies with the enemy sharing his bed!

A Scottish castle through the ages! Rory Lochmore had expected to wage battle, to claim land and finally secure his standing within his clan… Instead he won a wife. A McCrieff wife. Their convenient marriage could unite the two long-feuding clans forever. But can a political alliance give way to a passion strong enough to stand the secrets of the past?

Excellent conclusion to the series, as the last pieces of the puzzle begun in the first book are revealed. The year is 1293, and there have already been generations of hostility between the Lochmores and McCrieffs. Now that the English king granted a piece of the McCrieff's land to the Lochmores, it is time to claim that land. After months of their missives being ignored, Rory Lochmore, heir to the clan chief, is on the way to confront the leader of the McCrieffs. Fully expecting to meet resistance, Rory is deeply disturbed by the lack of it.

Rory has spent all his life trying to prove his worth to his father and feels that successfully handling this matter will go a long way toward doing so. When he arrives at the McCrieff castle he is met by the chief's second-in-command, the Tanist, as the chief is dying and invited in for a meal instead of a battle. There he discovers that the Tanist is prepared to accede to the king's demands, under one condition - that Rory marries his daughter, Ailsa.

Ailsa, besides being his daughter, is also the clan's healer and has been caring for the gravely ill chief. She is beautiful, headstrong, and blunt, and none too happy with her father's plans. But Ailsa is also very intelligent and loves her people, and after considering the ramifications agrees to the marriage. When Rory's best friend is poisoned right after the marriage announcement, she must race against time to save him and prevent all-out war.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Ailsa and Rory. Ailsa is no meek and obedient miss but is keenly observant and outspoken when she needs to be. Neither one trusts the other at first, thanks to the long-standing feud between their clans. I thoroughly enjoyed Rory's reactions to Ailsa's words, as he is unused to having women speak their minds quite so freely. However, it doesn't take long for him to appreciate her honesty and inability to beat around the bush. Rory is cautious about the marriage, unsure of his father's reaction, and tries to keep Ailsa at a distance. This is increasingly difficult, as the sparks between them are impossible to ignore, and when they finally give in, the results are incendiary. But there are obstacles that hold Ailsa and Rory slightly apart. Rory has some deep-seated insecurities stemming from his doubts over his place in his family. Ailsa, who is privy to some explosive secrets learned from the previous healer, suspects that some of what she thought was myth is, in fact, true. I ached for Rory, who hesitated to take Ailsa home, believing that his parents disapproved. There were some tense moments upon their arrival back at Lochmore, with a roller-coaster of emotions as secrets were finally laid to rest. I adored Ailsa's support of Rory during this time and loved the effect it had on him and his confidence in who he was. It was easy to see how this couple became the legend that they were for both families through the ages.

The epilogue was written by Janice Prescott, author of the first book in the series. It was beautifully done, bringing the story in a full circle. The depth of emotion as Rory and Ailsa were finally reunited was incredible, and I loved seeing how all four couples had a part in it. Lachlan and Flora's final words were perfect.

 

Baby's Bodyguard - Lisa Childs (HRS #2052 - Aug 2019)

Series: Colton 911 (Book 2)
            Coltons (Book 93)

From detective to daddy?

An ex-cop guards a vulnerable family

After an injury, Detective Forrest Colton is forced into early retirement. But Forrest isn't the type to sit still, so he volunteers to protect alluring single mom Rae Lemmon, whose life is threatened after a dead body is discovered on her property. When Forrest finds a note threatening Rae's infant son, his senses go on high alert. He needs to save this family even if it means his own “permanent” retirement.

Good book, second in the series. The tension continues to build as this book opens with the discovery of yet another body. The Whisperwood PD is already stretched thin because of the discovery of the first body, plus the hurricane recovery. Forrest agrees to help with the investigation as he's currently at loose ends thanks to the injury that forced his early retirement from the Austin PD. With years of experience, both as a detective and working cold cases, he is determined to bring the killer to justice. When a third body turns up at the home of single mother Rae, and she and her child are threatened, Forrest's protective instincts kick into high gear.

I liked both Rae and Forrest. Both have been hurt by those they loved, making them wary of trusting their hearts to anyone, but from the moment they met, there was a connection between them. Forrest suffers from some insecurity, thanks to his injury and being let down by the one who should have stood by him. He tries to keep Rae at a distance, believing that she pities him. At the same time, Rae has been let down by the men in her life so many times that she isn't looking for anything long-term. Her son is the focus of her life, and she stubbornly believes that she can handle anything on her own.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Forrest and Rae. Their encounter at his brother's wedding was awkward as he misunderstood her overtures, but he couldn't forget her. Though initially somewhat suspicious of Rae once he discovered the body, it didn't take long for his protective instincts to rise up. Rae clung to her independence until her baby was in danger, then reached out to Forrest. I loved seeing them grow closer and begin to trust each other. There were some adorable scenes of Forrest and baby Connor - especially the late-night one with the diaper change. The attraction between them also continued to build. But it took nearly losing each other for them to realize how much they needed to be together. I liked the ending and how Forrest showed Rae his vulnerability, and the difference her belief in him made to his view of the future.

The suspense was terrific. Running through the series is the investigation into the bodies that turn up around Whisperwood. It is Forrest's job to investigate and track down the killer. His frustration is evident with the lack of leads. I found the reaction of one victim's brother very interesting. His anger seemed a little excessive and Forrest felt he was hiding something about his sister. As the book went on I found myself developing a suspect. It will be interesting to see if I am right about this person. At the same time, Rae began receiving threats against her and Connor. When Forrest stepped in to protect them, he also came under attack. The tension mounted with each attack, especially as there were a few bits from the bad guy's point of view. The final confrontation was a nail biter with an unexpected twist to it. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.