Who Did It

Undercover Duke by Sabrina Jeffries
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sheridan Wolfe, Duke of Armitage and Vanessa Pryde are made for each other but both think the other is not interested in any romance. Then throw in the mystery of who killed the previous Dukes and thing just get out of hand. Nice conclusion to the series. I did know how did it long before any of the character's got a clue.

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Mystery and Romance All in One Package

Who Wants to Marry a Duke by Sabrina Jeffries
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Two great characters are featured in this third book in the Duke Dynasty series. Miss Olivia Norley and Marlowe Drake have a past history when they once again cross paths. Filled with misunderstandings and in Drake's case a secret the romance is off to a very rocky start. In fact it is a stand still. Even so when danger rears it ugly head the two have to work together and a romance gets a fresh start, Good mystery worked into the story line. Look for more about that in future books.

I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.

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Short and Sweet Book Reviews # 263 - The Risk of Rogues by Sabrina Jeffries, Shift of Destiny by Carol Van Natta

The Risk of Rogues by Sabrina Jeffries
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lady Anne and her hats find their HEA in this conclusion to the Sinful Suitors series. It was fun to watch as Hartley tried to start a re-courtship with Lady Anne. Love that reappears again after years is a nice theme and in this case leads to some fun scenes.

I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.


Shift of Destiny by Carol Van Natta
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Moira Graham’s is on the run and ends up in Kotoyeesinay, Wyoming. A crazy billionaire is stalking her for her magic that she thinks does not exist. Along comes Chance McKennie, a prehistoric shifter looking for his mate. Could it be Moria. Moria and Chance are really interesting characters and the town of Kotoyeesinay may be the best character in the book. Chance and Moria face danger and more important magic. There is more world building in the second Ice Age Shifters story as well as learning more about the inhabitance of this quirky town. Can't wait to see who arrives on the scene next.

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Short and Sweet Book Reviews # 209 - The Secret of Flirting by Sabrina Jeffries, The Girl With the Make-Believe Husband by Julia Quinn

The Secret of Flirting by Sabrina Jeffries
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Here are the spymaster and the actress both playing a part in an historical event. Belgium needs a ruler and the candidates are all in London to make the choice. Jeffries mixes recorded history with some make-believe to spin a interesting and fun story. Baron Fulkham meets the stunning Princess Anne of Chanay and know that she is an imposter. The why is a big part of the fun. It was fun watching her sidestep every trap that Fulkham set. Even more fun to see him try to keep from falling for the lovely imposter. A nice addition to the Sinful Suitors series.

I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.


The Girl with the Make-Believe Husband by Julia Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A good use of the memory loss trope. Cecilia Harcourt leaves home and travels to the New World to nurse her brother back to health but instead of finding her brother she finds his friend Edward Rokesby injured and in need of her help. Only family can see Edward so she pretends that she is his wife and with her help he recovers but with a big memory gap. The two have corresponded but never met. The interaction between Cecilia and Edward plays out in a way that keeps the tension going. Poor Cecilia's lie just keeps getting bigger and she lives in fear about what will happen when Edward finds out she is not his wife. This is a Bridgertons Prequel and ends with a nod to the Bridgeton books. It was interesting to see the Revolutionary War from the British view.

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Short and Sweet Book Reviews # 144 - A Talent for Temptation by Sabrina Jeffries, Deck the Halls by Donna Alward, Stand Down by J.A. Jance

A Talent for Temptation by Sabrina Jeffries
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Widow Meriel Vyse is living her life paying back her brother-in-law by spying on members of the ton when he asks. That means she cannot accept the suit of Quinn Raines even though she really wants to. When Quinn decides to change things all you know what breaks loose. A short fun read with to characters who want the same thing just have not know how it make it happen. I liked both Merrill and Quinn and loved how they finally found their HEA.

I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.


Deck the Halls by Donna Alward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I want to give three cheers to Donna Alward for telling George's story. He is older, was homeless, and has never forgiven himself for the death of his best friend in Iraq. He has been a side character in the first Darling, VT stories and started on the road to recovery when he takes a job sweeping up and watering plants at the Ladybug Garden Center. Now he is full time, has an apartment and even owns a truck. He is thrown back in time when Amy, the older sister of his brother-in-arms, finds him just before Christmas. She wants to know about her brother's last days but realizes that she must take it easy and give George the space he needs before he can tell his story. George is not your usual main characters and his story does not follow the usual path to an HEA. Instead George finds a path to accepting that he was not the cause of his friends death and he and Amy are looking forward not back. Both decide to see what happens as they celebrate Christmas with Amy's family.

I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.


Stand Down by J.A. Jance
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wondered what happened to the Special Crimes unit Beau and Mel belonged to and this tell what happened. The unit is gone and then we see Mel in her new job. Beau is at loose ends but that does not keep him from springing into action when Mel is in danger. A nice bridge novella that tells two stories in a very short time.

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Short and Sweet Book Reviews #62 - Scorpius Rising by Rebecca Zanette, The Danger of Desire by Sabrina Jeffries, Rookie K-9 Unit Christmas by Valerie Hansen and Lenora Worth

Scorpius Rising by Rebecca Zanetti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Scorpius Rising is a prequel to the Scorpius Syndrome series. It highlighted how the Scorpius Syndrome started and was spread. It also introduced some of the main characters in the series and provided some of their backstory. I think anyone who has read the series will enjoy the story. It might also serve as an introduction to the series. However, I think I would have been a little lost if I had not been a fan of the series before reading this story. It does have a well-thought out plot that is filled with both danger and romance.


The Danger of Desire by Sabrina Jeffries
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sabrina Jeffries always seems to write a very good story and The Danger of Desire is no exception. Della And Warren are two great characters with really fun dialog that keeps the story moving and provides some laugh out loud moments combined with some dialog about some series issues. Della is on a quest and Warren is trying to save her from herself. Of course Warren has some issues where he needs saving as well. A really well matched pair with a nice story line. I received an ARC of The Danger of Desire in return for an honest review. I can honestly recommend this one. While it is part of a series it works well as a stand-alone.


Rookie K-9 Unit Christmas: Surviving Christmas\Holiday High Alert by Valerie Hansen
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Rookie K-9 Unit Christmas is two novellas featuring two new K-9 units. Both of the story are very sweet and also filled with Christian references. I did not realize that when I accepted an ARC of the book for a honest review. I read both stories. They have some very nice characters with some problems that reflect some current issues. They also have some very cute and interesting dogs. If you are looking for a easy and sweet Christmas romance this is a good choice.

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What Else I Read in October 2015

Books:

Christmas at Evergreen Inn by Donna Alward – There is nothing like a visit to Jewell Cove at Christmas time.  Both Todd Ricker and Lainey Price are old friends who find that Christmas changes friends to lovers.  A nice short sweet romance.

Dark Heart of Magic by Jennifer Estep – This is book two of the Black Blade series and it does a great job of moving the story forward.  All of the original characters are there along with at least one surprising new character.  The world building, character development and back story are furthered fleshed out.  The plot moves at a nice pace and the action is once again tension filled.  A good well written addition to the series.

Lone Wolf Lawman by Delores Fossen – I have become a fan of several of Harlequin Intrigue books and authors.  Delores Fossen is one of the authors.  Lone Wolf Lawman is the first book in the new Appaloosa Pass Ranch series.  The series is off to a great start.  The characters are interesting, the back story is worked into the story line and the plot is full of twists and turns.   Along with the danger there is a nice romance.  One couple finds their HEA while others are in the backgound waiting their turn.  

Castaway Planet (Boundary #4) by Eric Flint and Ryk E. Spoor – While this is book 4 (and the start of a new trilogy) in the Boundary series it will work well as an entry to the series. It is a set up for the rest of the trilogy.  Most of the story is about how to survive on an unexplored planet.  It follows the family for the first year.  As the book ends they realize that someone else has arrived.  To find out how that changes things you will have to wait for the next book.  Castaway Planet has an interesting story line, fun characters, as well as lots of tension and adventure. Pick it up for a fun quick read.

What Happens Under the Mistletoe by Sabrina Jeffries, Karen Hawkins, Candace Camp and Meredith Duran - Four fun Christmas stories and as the title suggests they all have a kiss under the mistletoe.  I had two favorites in the collection.  My very favorite was Sabrina Jeffries The Heiress and the Hothead.  This one featured the mill owning sister of Jeremy from a previous story.  I just knew she needed a romance and an HEA .  Jeffries provide the perfect one.

My other favorite was Sweetest Regret by Meredith Duran.  I loved both Lucas Goodwin and Georgie.  Theirs was not a smooth path to an HEA but it was an interesting one.

Like The Heiress and the Hothead the other two stories were based on characters from Hawkins’ and Camp’s series.  I did not know the characters so did not enjoy the stories as much.  This is a fun Christams collection and since it is four novellas you can pick it up and finish a story in a short time.  Great for when you are too busy to start a long book.

Shadows of Self (Mistborn #5) by Brandon Sanderson – Shadows of Self is the second book of a new series set in the Mistborn universe.  It does not work as a stand-alone.  At the very least read The Alloy of Law first.  Even better start with Mistborn, then The Well of Ascension and The Hero of Ages.  All of those are part of the back-story and world building needed to understand all the reference in Shadows of Self.  The story here is full of danger, tension, character development, and surprises.  All of that kept me reading but in the end I don’t know where the story is going.  The set up for the next book is there at the end so I guess I will find out when The Bands of Mourning comes out next year. 

Stacking the Shelves - Oct 10

Stacking The Shelves is all about sharing the books I added to my shelves this week. They may it be physical or virtual. I include books I buy in a physical store or online, books I borrow from friends or the library, review books, gifts and of course ebooks!  Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga at Tynga's Reviews.  Follow the link to see what others have on their shelves. 

Another short list.   I am doing better at adding to my TBR pile

For Review:

Horizon by Tabitha Lord

Dragos Goes to Washington by Thea Harrison

Anything for You by Kristan Higgins

What Happens Under the Mistletoe by Sabrina Jeffries, Karen Hawkins, Candace Camp, Meredith Duran

If the Viscount Falls by Sabrina Jeffries

Historical Romance

From Goodreads:

From New York Times bestselling author Sabrina Jeffries, the deliciously sexy fourth book in the “Duke’s Men” Regency romance series—the first of which was called “a totally engaging, adventurous love story” (RT Book Reviews, Top Pick).

The heir presumptive to the Viscount Rathmoor, Dominick Manton once had his heart’s desire within reach—a bright future as a barrister and engagement to Jane Vernon, a wealthy baron’s daughter. Then a shattering betrayal by his vindictive brother George snatched away Dom’s inheritance and his hopes of offering Jane a secure future.

 Brokenhearted, and attempting to end their engagement without destroying Jane’s reputation, Dom staged a betrayal of his own to convince her that he’s not the husband-to-be that she thought.

Now George is gone and the viscountcy restored to Dom, since his brother’s widow, Nancy—Jane’s cousin and closest confidant—never bore an heir. But when Nancy goes missing, a panicked Jane calls on her former fiancé to track down her cousin. Dom knows the mistakes of the past may be unforgiveable—but now, entangled together in mystery and danger, will they rekindle a passionate longing that was never lost to begin with?

Dominick Manton has been part of The Duke’s Men series from the beginning.  We knew he had once been engaged to Jane Vernon but there have only been hints about what happened.  In If the Viscount Falls we finally get in inside story when Jane has to come to Dom for help.

There is a mystery to be solved and Jane and Dom have to work together.  It is fun to see these two strong characters butt heads.  Both know that they still love the other but there are things from the past and things in the present that have to be solved for them to have a future.  Dom has to learn to ask not tell and Jane has to learn to trust again.

These are two very well developed characters in an exciting and well-executed story.  If the Viscount Falls is a great ending to The Duke’s Men series.  It can stand-alone but is more fun if you have read the previous three books.

Pocket Books published If the Viscount Falls by Sabrina Jeffries in 2015.

I received an ARC of If the Viscount Falls from Netgalley in return for an honest review.

How the Scoundrel Seduces (The Duke’s Men #3) by Sabrina Jeffries

Historical Romance

From Goodreads:

The third deliciously sexy novel in the New York Times bestselling Duke’s Men historical romance series, featuring an investigator who sets out to find gypsies—and unexpectedly finds love.

Investigator Tristan Bonnaud has one aim in life—to make sure that his half-brother George can’t ever ruin his life again. So when the pesky Lady Zoe Keane, the daughter of the Earl of Olivier, shows up demanding that the Duke’s Men find a mysterious gypsy woman, he seizes the opportunity to also hunt for a gypsy friend who knows secrets about George. Tristan doesn’t expect to uncover Lady Zoe’s family secrets, as well…or end up falling for the woman who will risk all to discover the truth.

Once again one of the Duke’s Men falls in love but not without facing more trouble than two people ever deserve. This time it is Tristan Bonnaud and the Lady Zoe Keane.  I met both in book one so neither is a new character. 

Lady Zoe kept a secret about The Duke’s Men in book one and is now owed a favor.  She finds information that threatens her place in society and suddenly she has a very big problem.  She needs to find the truth so she calls that favor in.  Tristan is the investigator who can find out the information she needs to know.  While he searches for the truth for Zoe he looks for information that could help shield him from George, his half-brother.   Sparks fly between Tristan and Zoe with both thinking they dislike the other.  It turns out they have more in common that both think.  Danger just adds to the tension and tension leads to romance.  I wondered how Lady Zoe’s problem could ever be solved but Jeffries proves her mastery of story telling when she comes up with a very elegant solution for both Zoe and Tristan.

Look for more hooks to Dom and Jane’s story.  Maybe the next book will let me know what really happened between the two.

Pocket Books published How the Scoundrel Seduces by Sabrina Jeffries in 2014.

I received an ARC of How the Scoundrel Seduces from Netgally.

Stacking the Shelves, June 14, 2014

Books Stacked on My Shelves

Stacking The Shelves is all about sharing the books I added to my shelves this week. They may it be physical or virtual. I include books I buy in a physical store or online, books I borrow from friends or the library, review books, gifts and of course ebooks!  Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga at Tynga's Reviews.  Follow the link to see what others have on their 

shelves.

Purchased:  

Even White Trash Zombies Get the Blues by Diana Rowland

White Trash Zombie Apocalypse by Diana Rowland

For Review:

Poison Promise by Jennifer Estep

How the Scoundrel Seduces by Sabrina Jeffries

Trial by Fire by Charles E. Gannon

Wood Sprites by Wen Spencer

Heroes Are My Weakness Susan Elizabeth Phillips

When the Rogue Returns (The Duke’s Men #2) by Sabrina Jeffries

Historical Romance

What Goodreads says:

"The second sparkling book in the New York Times bestselling Duke’s Men historical romance series, featuring the Duke’s cousin and a skilled female jeweler who must unravel a mystery ten years in the making.

It had been a decade since Victor Cale, first cousin to the Duke of Lyons, had seen his wife. After some royal jewelry went missing from the jeweler’s shop where they worked, Isabel Mertens disappeared. When Victor gets word of a woman who fits his wife’s description, he sets out to confront her. But he discovers that nothing is as it seems—and revenge is never as sweet as true love."

I have been waiting for the next book in The Duke’s Men and wondering who will be featured.  It makes sense for it to be Victor Cale.  Victor is the newly discovered first cousin of the Duke of Lyons and at the end of the first book he was showing signs of restlessness.  He was used to action so in When the Rogue Returns he gets more than he bargained for.

I liked the story line.  Both Victor and Isabel, his long lost wife, think they were abandoned after expensive jewelry was stolen.  Victor thinks Isabel was the guilty party and Isabel thinks that Victor was the thief.  Of course both are innocent.

Victor and Isabel’s story is full of surprises.  What is nice is that we the readers are in on most of them and we get to watch the characters stumble around in ignorance.  The ones we are not in on add to the suspense before a very satisfactory ending.  All in all When the Rogue Returns is a very interesting addition to The Duke’s Men series.

Pocket Book published When theRogue Returns by Sabrina Jeffries in 2014.

I received an ARC of When the Rogue Returns from Edelweiss.

“Twas the Night after Christmas (Hellions of Halstead Hall #6) by Sabrina Jeffries

Historical Romance

Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, has been a side character in the Hellions series and now in "Twas the Night after Christmas he has his own story.  Here is what Goodreads says:

Pierce Waverly, the Earl of Devonmont, has been estranged from his mother for most of his life. When his mother’s new companion, Mrs. Camilla Stuart, writes to tell him that his mother is seriously ill, he goes home. But when he learns that the lovely widow tricked him in order to effect a holiday reconciliation, he refuses to stay—unless she meets his “terms.” Somewhere between trying to seduce the beautiful Camilla and struggling with the cruel memories of his childhood Christmases, Pierce discovers that not only does forgiveness go two ways, but that love can blossom even in the coldest of winters.

I loved the story.  It is filled with heart-warming moments and characters that I cared about.

Plot:  This had what seemed like a simple plot but turned out to be very intricate.  Pierce’s parents sent him away at age 8 and never let him come home of see them after that.  It took until the end of the book to find out why.  I truly had no idea why Pierce’s Mother did what she did.

Characters:  Pierce is a rogue but his actions have been to punish his parents.  Now that his Father is dead his Mother would like to see him again but Pierce inside is still a small boy has been hurt but does not know why.  Camilla Stuart can’t understand why Pierce treats his Mother like he does and tries to help.  She is a torn between the two.  Lady Devonmont loves her son Pierce but believes she deserves the way Pierce ignores her. 

Tension:  The interaction between the characters is very well thought out.  That interaction keeps up the tension and there is plenty. There is the tension between Pierce and his Mother, between Pierce and Camilla, and between Camilla and Lady Devonmont.  Throw in some side issues and the story moves briskly.

Worldbuilding:  Part of the worldbuilding for the story was done in previous Hellion’s books.  We see mentions of previous main characters in the story and meet a few as side characters in the book.

‘Twas the Night After Christmas was a really satisfying read.  It had everything I look for in a romance;  great characters, good plot and a wonderful HEA.

Galley Books released 'Twas the Night After Christmas by Sabrina Jeffries in 2012.

Teaser Tuesday December 20, 2011

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following: 

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers.

My teaser is from the book I just started, To Wed a Wild Lord by Sabrina Jeffries.  

"Not good with women, hah! What did Lyons know about it?"  page 31.