All Rogues Lead To Ruin is a fresh, sensual, and captivating new spin in a genre riddled with titles and wallflowers. The story spans the rookeries to the countryside; from a gently bred young lady who aspires to write books to a criminal wanting to better himself. The writing is deliberate, the characters are stunning, and the plot development was perfection.
Hazel Taylor escapes the countryside and her sisters to pursue her dreams of writing children books in Victorian Manchester. Jonathan Travers has grown up hard in the rookeries, becoming a debt collector for a crime boss. Both of the main characters want to better their circumstances and both have tragedies in their past. Hazel’s tenacity and spirit leaps off the page. She is such a lovely, bright character. Jonathan, while formidable and intimidating, has such a warm heart and gentle spirit. Forced into a life of crime, he hopes to better himself and protect his younger brother from the harsh life he has led. Both Jonathan and Hazel’s characters sparkled and were memorable.
The couple’s physical and emotional connections are urgent and elemental. The sparks fly from the page of this swoon-worthy romance. The plot was driven by relatable, believable characters. Jonathan and Hazel were both beautifully flawed and genuinely honest. My attention never faltered in this steamy, loving, romantic journey. This is a story of opposites attracting and finding their happily-ever-after by compromise and love. All Rogues Lead To Ruin is the first book in The Garden Girls series. This novel is a undeniably splendid beginning to a promising series. Jonathan and Hazel’s love story resonated with me and by the end I had discovered a fantastic, soulful, sensual read. I whole-heartedly recommend this novel to anyone out there that likes pulling for a happy ending for the underdog! I was captured by the spark in this book and will not soon forget it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Royce Davis has been living in darkness since an injury in battle left him with failing vision.When a fiery-haired vixen, Lily Moore becomes his employee, she brings with her an unexpected light and a yearning he can’t resist. But, when her past catches up to her, Lily and Royce find themselves caught up in a deadly game. Fans of steamy historical romances will want to sink their teeth into Seducing the Warrior by Laura Shipley, the first book in her To Love A Wicked Warrior Series.
Hello fellow romance lovers! Today we are celebrating the book birthday of Seducing The Warrior by Laura Shipley. Seducing The Warrior is the first in the To Love A Wicked Warrior, an exciting, new series that I can’t wait to read more. In this release blitz you will find blurbs, excerpts, my review, and author info. So scroll on down and learn more about this fantastic book!
A soldier losing his vision. A lady fleeing for her life. An unlikely couple… bound together in desire, need, and love.
The man in the shadows…
Injured in battle and his sight failing, Royce Davis has been dwelling in darkness since his return to England, in more ways than one. Consumed by bitterness and pain, Royce is determined to make his way in the world alone. But when a fiery-haired vixen takes up his offer of employment, his heart is awakened by a woman whose beauty enthralls him and whose touch ignites a yearning he cannot resist.
The woman who brings the light…
On the run from a ruthless enemy, Lily Moore finds refuge in Royce Davis’s home. Refusing to be put off by her employer’s coarse manners, Lily senses the real man behind the facade…as well as a desperate passion she finds herself longing to answer.
The darkness that cannot be escaped…
Royce refuses to believe he could ever be worthy of a woman like Lily. But when the past catches up with his new assistant, he will move heaven and earth to keep her safe. Royce must prepare to do battle with a cunning adversary while fighting against his own blindness. Lily never meant for Royce to be caught up in this deadly game. But now what began as a business arrangement has become something much more. Can a bargain born of necessity lead them to a fated love? Or will a madman see them parted forever?
The horizon appeared to stretch on forever, though she knew across the sea lay the continent, but in this moment, she felt as if she were the only person in the world. All of a sudden, a great weight lifted from her. It felt like the sea had taken with it the part of her which had, for these last months, known nothing but pain and sorrow and had released her from it. A sob escaped, but Lily covered her mouth, trying to suppress the noise. She shouldn’t be crying, but perhaps they were only tears of joyful gratitude. After all this time, she might finally be able to have a life free of fear.
Time seemed to pass at its own pace. The sun’s changing position in the sky the only indication that the day was progressing. How long had she stood there, gazing at the blue waters below? Surely it was time to return to the manor house. Lily took a few steps when she heard a horse approaching. Her pulse quickened, and she froze in place. Who would be coming here, so far away from any place? Should she try to hurry into the safety of the woods, or wait?
No, she was tired of running and knew there was nothing to fear. The men who had been after her wouldn’t know she had fled to the other side of the country. She waited, and after a moment, a horse and rider came into view, making their way up the hill that she stood on.
The man appeared young, perhaps around her age. He wore a long black riding coat, the tails bouncing behind him in time with his horse’s gait. His hat hid is hair, but she could see it was a darker color. Overall, she was inclined to call him handsome. All of this she saw in the few seconds before he pulled up his horse before her.
Seducing The Warrior was an unexpected delight of a story! This is an exquisite tale of trust, healing, and love. The novel is lovingly written with stand-out characters and a heartwarming plot.
Royce Davis has returned from war an injured and broken man. He has picked himself up and has created a comfortable, enterprising life for himself. However, Royce suffers terribly from pain and near blindness. Royce despises pity and cannot acquiesce that one day he may become dependent on others. He will not subject a wife to that, vowing to be alone forever. Royce could have been viewed as a tragic figure. However, he was written in a way that showcased his strength, bravery, and courage. Royce had flaws but was able to address them and not let them ruin his life.
Lily Moore has been running non-stop from an evil man. She is burdened and exhausted. She finds solace in Royce’s household and eventually in Royce himself. Lily fights for Royce, her determination to stop him from pushing her away is admirable. She is strong and defiant, a loving, intuitive, empathetic individual; this is just what Royce requires.
The push and pull between the attraction and discord of the couple are perfectly balanced. The physical connection quickly turns into something more precious and rare. Royce and Lily’s journey is one of passion and tender romance. The spark the couple has is electrifying.
The plot was hauntingly beautiful. The love story unfolded throughout the book’s entirety, not in a few paragraphs in the last chapter. The tenderness and warmth the couple shared shone brightly from the page. Seducing The Warrior is the first book in To Love A Wicked Warrior series. This first novel introduces a group of injured soldiers coming home from war, each one broken in his own way. I hope each new book will focus on a different soldier; I became invested in the men in a short amount of time. I couldn’t put this book down. Laura Shipley has the beginnings of a fantastic, unforgettable series in her hands!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
ABOUT LAURA SHIPLEY
Laura Shipley is an indie author who writes Victorian historical romance with dark, brooding heroes and strong-willed, feisty heroines. Her love of romance began the first time she “borrowed” one of the mother’s books and was hooked. While she reads all genres, paranormal romance is a close second to historical.
When she is not writing, Laura enjoys spending time with her husband and children. She has never met a piece of chocolate or a glass of wine that she did not like. Her third addiction is Starbucks, and the never ending need for caffeine to keep the creative juices flowing. She prefers movies over tv, too much of a time commitment, but likes spending time outdoors including hiking and rafting.
Her greatest joy is transporting readers to another time and place with her books, and to have her readers fall in love with the characters just as much as she does. Laura’s email is always open to comments or questions at thelaurashipley@gmail.com. Don’t forget to follow her on Facebook at TheLauraShipley for updates and other fun stuff.
The Brazen Bluestocking is a fun romp about a stubborn, unique lady and an underworld king who find love in the most unlikely places. The story weaves a tale of opposites attracting, so much so that they ignite the page! Readers will enjoy these stand-out characters and eye-catching plot.
Lady Hildegard Templeton is an impoverished Earl’s daughter that has committed the biggest sin in the aristocracy; she works and is unmarried. Hildy establishes a business that assists debutantes in finding suitable husbands. Hildy has spunk and determination. I admire that Hildy has worked endlessly to make others happy; she has given up on love for herself.
Tobias Streeter is the King Of The Underworld when it comes to money and power. Tobias has fought and scratched his way from a penniless illegitimate son of a viscount to one of the richest men in London. Tobias’s grit and determination define him as unforgettable. He has much against him, but he perseveres to the consternation of the people who wish him put in his place. Tobias seeks an aristocratic bride to further his business endeavors and for revenge. He matches wits with Hildy and finds a worthy opponent that is smart and beautiful.
The couple has low expectations; however, they find instant, fiery attraction both physically and intellectually. I enjoyed the intelligent flirting as much as the sensual attraction. Tobias and Hildy have an explosive first encounter just by talking. Their passion is driven as much by words as by action, which excels their more intimate moments. This couple could melt the page just with their words. I enjoyed how the couple fought the burgeoning, undeniable love, dragging their feet at every romantic step. The couple was compelling and delivered a clever, swoon-worthy love story.
The Brazen Bluestocking is a bright, brilliant beginning to The Duchess Society series. The prequel, The Ice Duchess, sets the stage, and I recommend starting with this fantastic novella. I enjoyed the uniqueness of the plot having a working, intelligent woman and a common, somewhat shady working-class magnate. This wasn’t a wallflower and rake tale, and it is because of this that I thought the book was ingenious and original. Read this book; you will not regret submersing yourself in an energetic, intelligent, passionate romance!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Cheers To The Duke is fun, spirited, and romantic. This is a tale of two mature adults with plenty of life experience that finds that there is such a thing as second chances at happiness. From matchmaking to house parties to secret assignations, this book will charm, and you will root for a happy ending for these two deserving people.
Jo, the widowed Lady Havenridge, has put her heart and soul into the brewery that empowers and employs destitute women with their daughters. With both of Jo’s partners recently married, she is burdened with all the worries and difficulties of the entire operation. Jo is a spunky character. She is consumed with her work to the point of obsession. Jo has forgotten how to smile and enjoy life. Jo is so absorbed in helping others that she has forgotten she needs to see to her happiness, not just the satisfaction of running the home. I felt Jo was a lonely soul, unconsciously looking for someone to complete her. To her detriment, Jo’s singular focus could be frustrating at times, but it helped build her strong, independent nature. Jo was a force to be reckoned with.
Edward Russell, the new Duke Of Grainger, was a solicitor and widower who received the dukedom due to a freak occurrence of the death to all the immediate heirs. Edward has the most adorable son, Thomas, who stole every scene. Edward has a healthy dislike of the aristocracy as they see him not much above an ordinary worker that infiltrated their ranks. Edward’s love for Thomas is heartwarming and sweet. Edward is lonely, wanting companionship, passion, and a loving mother for his child. Edward’s sense of responsibility and capacity to love makes him a lovable, formidable character. Edward’s caring heart is precious and fragile and needs love and special care. He wants Jo to be the person who makes him whole.
Edward and Jo are thrown together at a house party by a bunch of matchmaker friends. Edward is more hopeful and smitten, where Jo is aggravated and uncertain. The attraction, although a little one-sided, is instantaneous. The couple’s compatibility is evident from their first encounter. The couple’s adventure into passion is full of seduction and a little humor. Jo is skittish and rightfully so due to her past, but I felt aggravated at her at times. The couple’s interaction with Thomas was compelling and handled with love.
The plot was exciting and moved quickly. The pace kept my attention. I enjoyed the premise and found myself cheering for the couple. There were many secondary characters from previous books, but they were well defined without the author re-hashing the previous books. I adored the ending. The entire story had substance without being dragged down with emotional baggage. Cheers To The Duke is the third book in this wonderful series, Widow’s Brew. Sally MacKenzie has done a fantastic job of creating a joyful story of two people on different paths that find happiness with each other. This is an enjoyable, lovable read that lightened my heart and had me believing in happy endings!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A Cowboy Christmas Legend is a heartwarming, action-packed romance that will leave the reader with a smile. This love story is set at Christmas and is a beautiful way to start the season. Full of spirit and adventure, this book will brighten your day.
Sam Legend II becomes a recluse after his wife is murdered. Sam escapes his famous family and lives simply and alone. Sam feels responsible for his wife’s death and is burdened with guilt. Cheyenne Ronan happens upon Sam, and their connection is instant. Cheyenne also has dark secrets she keeps hidden from Sam. Sam and Cheyenne must navigate guilt and danger to find their happiness. The couple had a spark, and the passion between them was romantic and powerful. Sam is an excellent character filled with honor, integrity, and strength. Cheyenne has a vast capacity to love. She has waited to find the remarkable man who will steal her heart. Cheyenne has power and determination, which is admirable. The couple can face anything as long as they are together. Sam and Cheyenne’s relationship is perfectly paced and builds at a fever pitch.
The plot was eye-catching and kept my attention. The story moved quickly and contained a vast amount of content. The action complemented the quiet, romantic moments. I enjoyed how instantly Sam and Cheyenne clicked. The plot displayed redemption and the healing power of love. The secondary characters increased the likability of the story. These characters are larger than life. From Texas Rangers to an impoverished family, the characters added depth and color to the plot. The backdrops of the countryside and towns are descriptive, and I felt I was there with the characters.
Linda Broday writes a tender and compelling love story with plenty of heart and adventure. This Christmas tale is warm and romantic. I recommend this book for lovers of historical western romance or trying something different and entertaining. A Cowboy Christmas Legend brings the joy of the season to the reader. I finished the book with a feeling of happiness and hope.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I look forward to Christmas collections every year, and this one did not disappoint! The group is a myriad of festive cheer, sure to make you smile and warm your heart.
Great Scot! by Suzanne Enoch
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Great Scot is a heartwarming tale of two mature adults finding love in an unlikely place. Jane Bansil has felt meek and out of place her entire life. Brennan Andrews is scarred physically from an accident and emotionally from the death of his wife. In this story, Brennan gets a second chance at love, and Jane finds the freedom and empowerment to embrace love. This unlikely couple heats the page and leaves the reader with a smile. This was such a bright, happy story of self-discovery and love.
Christmas At Dewberry Hollow by Amelia Grey
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Christmas At Dewberry Hollow is a new, unique, romantic Christmas story. Miss Isabelle Reed runs the inn with her mother. She expects people to come into her life, then disappear. Gate, the Duke of Notsgrave’s grandson, has lived a life of privilege without purpose. The two must face distrust and distance to find their happily-ever-after. The backdrop of the inn is festive and descriptive. The secondary characters were bright and added to the story. Isabelle and Gate are lively, likable characters. The plot moved well and was romantic. All in all, an excellent Christmas read!
My Mistletoe Beau by Anna Bennett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Miss Eva Tiding breaks into Jack Hardwick’s, the Duke of Frostbough home, to retrieve her father’s pocket watch, which Jack swindled in a card game. Through an odd turn of events, the couple agrees to a fake relationship for the Christmas season. This is a beautiful Christmas tale of enemies-to-lovers. Jack and Eva’s connection snaps off the page. It is so electric. The cutting, witty banter throughout is invigorating and entertaining. The house party is a perfect backdrop, and the secondary characters are enchanting. I adored this clever, festive, romantic read!
All three novellas were vastly different and kept my attention throughout all the stories. Each entry was unique and eye-catching. The writing was excellent, and the contrasting backdrops kept each tale interesting. I advise saving space on your Christmas to-be-read list this year!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Infamous is a refreshing, different, heart-wrenching love story of two couples and second chances. This story provides heartache, redemption, and all-encompassing love. Minerva Spencer delivers an intricate, lovingly written tale of how bad choices elementally change us for the worse, but most importantly, how we learn from them and create something extraordinary from the ashes.
This plot is quite intricate, and there is much left out of the blurb at the front of the book. I will simply say that the story focuses on four individuals whose lives are irrevocably altered after a nefarious trick goes horribly wrong. We start the story ten years past the aftermath of the fateful night that up-ended four lives. One couple, locked in a cold marriage, is trying to find their way back to each other. The other find each other after much pain and strife.
Celia is the center point of the entire tragedy. Pushed into being the antagonist by an evil man, she pays the consequences of her actions tenfold. Celia is a tragic figure, brought low after causing so many people pain. Celia is humbled and degraded again and again. Even though she created this disaster, no one deserves the pain she endured. After ten years of deprivation and degradation, Celia finds Richard, a man she ridiculed and rejected years ago. The couple instantly ignites the page with their attraction. Richard and Celia’s journey is a long one, fraught with consequences over the past. Lucien and Phyllida are the other couple, mired in ten years of a marriage full of misunderstanding and strife. Their journey back to one another is tenderly passionate. Both couples have a second chance at happiness if only they are brave enough to take that first step.
The writing coordinates the many moving parts of this story flawlessly. The story, which could have been muddled and mired, is instead uniquely written to cast a beautiful spotlight on these terribly flawed people who deserve a second chance at happiness and love. The story fell together perfectly, and the pace moved seamlessly for such an expansive storyline. This book grabbed my interest in the first chapter and demanded my attention until the last sentence. The author orchestrated a tale of tragedy, redemption, and love that I will not soon forget. I encourage you to take the chance on this hauntingly beautiful book; you won’t regret it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Some novels catch your attention and make you smile. A Reckless Match is this kind of book and more. Star-crossed lovers mixed with plenty of adventure make an entertaining, passionate, eye-catching read. Gryff and Maddie’s tale takes the reader on a romantic, thrilling chase that doesn’t stop until the last sentence.
Gryffud “Gryff” Davies, the new Earl of Powys, is a returning soldier bent on carousing his way through London. When illegal activities force Gryff to his Welsh home, the boring existence he expects is shattered by the beautiful neighbor next door, who has invaded his thoughts for too many years. Maddie Montgomery is too busy for the long-enduring, undeniable feeling she has towards Gryff as she is trying to save her family’s financial well-being. Gryff and Maddie’s families have held a feud for hundreds of years. Through a series of misadventures and dangers, the couple realizes they can’t deny the attraction they have held for each other for years any longer.
Gryff is a rake of the first order; however, he has a good heart. Maddie is intelligent and headstrong; no wilting wallflower here! Their love-hate relationship leads to an intense, swoon-worthy, passionate attraction. I enjoyed their verbal sparring and intimate connection. The secondary characters, Gryff and Maddie’s siblings and cousins, added color and spice to the story and opened the door to future books.
The plot was overflowing with sexual tension, adventure, and action. There was not a slow moment. The couple was constantly getting into some kind of trouble, and it was a treat seeing how they would get out. The story flowed rapidly, barely giving time for the reader to breathe; this made for a fantastic read. The majority of the books I read split the point of view between the couple fifty-fifty. In this book, it was closer to eighty-twenty in favor of the heroine. It took me some time to adjust to this, but I found it didn’t take away from the storytelling.
A Reckless Match is the first book in the Ruthless Rivals series. It follows two families who have been enemies for centuries; they have forgotten why! The book takes enemies to lovers to a new level. Kate Bateman creates the beginning of a sensual, adventurous, breath-taking world that I don’t want to end. This novel was a fantastic beginning to a lovable, undeniably entrancing journey. I can’t wait to read more of these cantankerous, unforgettable families!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Oh, how I hate seeing the Regency Cock Gents series end! I have been impatiently waiting for Cocky Butler, Blackheart’s story, and the sixth and final book. Simon Cockfield, the Duke of Blackheart, has been a favorite secondary character of mine throughout the entire series. Cocky Butler is the grand finale fireworks of an enticing, sexy, heartwarming series.
In the first book, Simon, the Duke of Blackheart, loses a bet to his friend, Greystone, and begrudgingly becomes Greystone’s butler for the London season. Miss Violet Faraday is a cousin to Greystone, and she is sponsoring her niece’s come out. The sparks fly when Violet and Simon meet, and they must navigate tragedies, misconceptions and come to terms with some brutal truths to find their happily-ever-after.
I have loved Simon from the first chapter of the first book. Simon has always stood out, offering sage advice at times and getting his friends out of trouble at others. He is open-minded, prizes honor, and is lonely, wanting what his friends have found but doubting he ever will find it. He is a protective friend, a loving brother, and has the largest heart of all the gents. Simon’s character burst forcefully from the page and demands the reader’s attention. One is helpless but to be enamored of Simon.
Violet is a stand-out character as well. Violet has seen tragedy and has been used and put aside. She has lost her sense of self-value. Violet tries so hard to ensure other’s happiness that she forgets that she deserves happiness too. Violet climbs numerous emotional mountains in this story. There is a moment in the story where Violet must choose to lovingly accept and encourage or be disappointed and unbending. Violet fiercely decides to stand by those she loves. Violet demonstrates integrity, strength, and vulnerability that is breathtaking.
If I try to sum the heart of this plot, it would be that unbreakable, soul-changing love isn’t neat and tidy. Love doesn’t always follow societal rules and beliefs. Love doesn’t always make sense, but when love can transcend all these obstacles, it is well worth the struggle. For all these reasons and more, this plot resonated with me on a certain level. The story flowed effortlessly, and the actions and reactions were organic and seamless.
Cocky Butler exceeded all my expectations. This is a love story with grit, determination, and purpose. It is all-encompassing, sweetly romantic, and quietly passionate. I couldn’t wait to read Cocky Butler, and I did not want this journey with the gents to end, but what a way to go! The novel had a brilliantly executed plot, lively characters, and an emotional purpose. I couldn’t think of a better finale for an outstanding series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Vixen Of A Viscount is another electric, breathtaking novel in a fantastic series. This story takes us on a romantic journey of two best friends finding love.
Reformed rake Sebastian Peele has returned from a monastery in the Alps, ready to woo and marry a certain prim and proper young lady. Vivian is tired of abiding by the rules and decides to take a page from Sebastian’s roguish playbook. The sudden personality reversal is an entertaining, wild ride! The push and pull between reformed rake Sebastian and bad girl Vivian is spot-on. Funny at times, passionate at others, this couple keeps the reader on their toes, wanting more.
Richard and Christina are on the opposite side of the coin. Both are reserved and proper. This couple’s love story unfolds differently from Sebastian and Vivian’s. Many secrets could destroy Richard that he must come to terms. Christina is patient, kind, and understanding. The couple’s sweet yet passionate journey was heartfelt and beautiful.
The plots of the two couples intertwine flawlessly. The secondary characters complemented the novel perfectly. These characters were vivid, sharp, and entertaining. They also brought levity to the plot that made me smile. The story raced and kept my interest until the last page.
The Vixen Of A Viscount is the sixth book in The Heirs Of The Aristocracy. This is a lively, refreshing addition that compliments the series. I always eagerly anticipate the next book, and this one sets the bar high! I found myself laughing, not wanting to put the book down. These are two passionate love stories combined in a unique, fresh way. If you have read other books in this series, this one answers some questions posed in previous books. I fell in love with both couples, each main character grabbing my attention and pulling at my heartstrings. I was enamored with this book from page one. This novel set the highest of standards from the characters to the plot to the epilogue. This book was a fantastic read I didn’t want to end. Linda Rae Sande has delivered yet another enthralling romance that will warm your heart!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
