This is the second book that I have read by Janna McGregor. Her debut novel and first book in this series impressed me with her use of language and depth of emotion in the characters. This time, she brings those strengths to this book and adds a captivating plot with a mystery and revenge. Oh, and feminists! Read on.

The Story-

Emma is desperate to prove that her best friend’s death was not an accident and to make sure the man responsible pays for his sins, but she might get in a bit over her head on this quest for revenge. Nick has something to prove to himself and to society, but whenever he is around Emma, his guard is down and he just wants to protect her. When she sets off on a mysterious scheme, he is compelled to do what he can to keep her safe.

My Thoughts-

What a heroine! Emma knows her own mind and what she wants, and will stop at nothing to get it. She is a feminist; she actually reminded me of some Courtney Milan heroines with her intelligence, self-worth, and passion. Sometimes she gets a little stubborn, but isn’t that how real people are? I love how Nick is so completely smitten by her that it changes him and makes him a better man in her presence. My only critique is that I would have liked to see the bad guy get his due in a more drastic, on-screen, fulfilling way, But, I like paranormal where the bad guy usually gets decapitated or something, so maybe that’s just my bloodlust talking. The heat level of this book is very nice for historical; there is one scene in particular that is so sensual and surprising… Don’t be fooled by the blushing bride on the cover. (wink) The character development and the development of the relationship is what I believe McGregor is best at, and she does it so well here. This is not one of those books where you wonder if they are right for one another or if they are only physically attracted to each other. The romance is built like a well-constructed tower to the point where you know they are the perfect fit, and no one else would do.

The Bottom Line-

I am so excited that this new historical writer has answered a wonderful debut with an even more enjoyable follow-up. I will be reading Janna McGregor for years to come, and if you like historical romance, you should too. 5 stars

This is my first book by Olivia Drake and is the fourth in “Cinderella Sisterhood” series which is focused on fairy-tales. You don’t need to be familiar with the previous books to enjoy this one, and I found it a fast and fun read!

The Story-
Rory was cast out of society years ago when she was caught in the middle of a tryst with a man that she didn’t know was married. She’s been living quietly and happily with her aunt in the country. When a fairy godmother-type meddler remembers her and decides to gift her with some suspicious slippers, she is thrown back into the society which turned their back on her. Lucas remembers Rory. In fact, he had a hard time forgetting her all these years. But when that vivacious woman who captured his heart all that time ago shows up on his doorstep, everything will change.

My Thoughts-
I liked Rory and the plot, but I found the hero and the build of the romance to be slightly lacking. I didn’t entirely believe his feelings for her, and the romance just kinda happens in the midst of this mystery they are unraveling. I didn’t feel that wonderful “ooh, they have so much chemistry, how is this gonna unfold?” feeling that I do with really captivating romance. That being said, I enjoyed the mystery sub-plot. I found the reveals to be fun and suiting.

The Bottom Line-
I would read another book by Olivia Drake and would just hope for a more intriguing couple. I liked the heroine quite a bit, and obviously, Drake has a talent for weaving a tale. The fairy-tale retelling part of it is just enough to not hit you over the head with it and still be a fun “aha”. 4 stars

This is my first Anna Harrington! (steadily making my way around to all the Regency Historical authors) I enjoyed Harrington’s different voice and really sympathized with the heroine. Let’s get into it!

The Story-
Annabelle comes from humble beginnings, but has been raised by and lived with an upper-class family since she was a child. Her one chance at a good marriage is ruined by Quinton, a friend who decided to kiss her at exactly the wrong moment. Now it’s years later, and she finds out that she will actually inherit the only home she’s ever known if she can only marry by her next birthday. When Quinton is called in to help weed out would-be gold diggers, the issue is complicated.

My Thoughts-
This is one of those books that, even though I knew who had to end up together by the end, I had no idea how they would actually get there. The obstacles seemed pretty insurmountable. I felt so bad for Annabelle, and the hero, Quinton, took way too long to realize what needed to happen. That being said, the hot moments were seriously hot. Quinton is the perfect callous rogue that is hiding the good guy under a playboy exterior. The characters were well-developed, and that includes some secondary characters as well. They really brought the heart to the story.

The Bottom Line-
I think any historical romance fan would enjoy this, even though the story did take a little while to wrap up. Harrington’s voice and characters bring a different spin to the typical Regency, and I will definitely be reading more books by her very soon. 4 stars!