My Seductive Innocent by Julie Johnstone (Review)

All right, My Seductive Innocent by Julie Johnstone is a bit rough. It's a good story, but not an easy read. I guess I needed time to digest the information. So, let's talk about the book, because the blurb is a bit vague in a sense.

First off, Sophia isn't a hoyden. When I think of hoyden I think someone who doesn't give a wit about society, marches to beat of her own drum, and carefree. Sophia is definitely not carefree, she actually cares a lot of responsibility. She's trying to protect her brother at all cost, by making sacrifices to ensure he stays safe. However, Sophia is pretty smart, independent, and loving. I would also say that she's a bit of spitfire. She's passionate on the people she loves.

Then we have Nathaniel who is staid. He has this whole life planned out with finding the perfect societal wife who won't give him grief if he has a mistress. Basically, he wants a wife that will be seen, but not heard. However, that is thrown out the window when he encounters Sophia and is kind of force to marry.

So, there marriage is a bit rocky from the start. Nathaniel has this idea of having stepford wife, while Sophia dreams of being love. Oh yeah, she has this dream of finding true love, but it's kind of hard when your married to a duke who has no desire to love his wife. Anyway, she tries to teach him that it's important to have love in a relationship. About the time she starts to open his heart all hell breaks loose. I have to say things start to get a bit crazy. I can't really say what the hell happens, because that would be a spoiler. I guess the best way to sum it up would be never every family believes that blood is thicker than water.

Okay, My Seductive Innocent was an interesting read. It's pretty dark. A lot has to deal with Nathaniel childhood and what happens to him later in the story. Sophia is kind of this ray of sunshine, but slowly diminishes as the story progresses and you start to wonder is this going to end well. Fortunately, there is a happy ending, but it takes a lot of work to get there. It's a good story, but you have wade through a lot of rough emotional stuff to get to a happy ending. If you are a patient person, you will be rewarded with a pleasant ending.

Copy provided by author

Rating 3 1/2 Stars

A Scandalous Deception by Ava Stone (Review)

For the longest time I had been putting off A Scandalous Deception. Now you wonder why, because we all know how much I love Ava's writing. There are some things I know about this book, that make me sad. It has to do with an secondary character. Honestly, he wasn't a huge character always in the background, and occasionally he would popup here and there. So, knowing what will happen eventually I was a little leery to start the story. However, I have to read the story in order to do the next part of a blog post. That's my explanation on why it took me so long to finish. Anyway, my thoughts on A Scandalous Deception.

Delay of Game by Catherine Gayle

I got a chance to read Delay of Game by Catherine Gayle. This is the fourth book in Portland Storm books. I have to say that have enjoyed this series so far. Throughout the series you find some awesome guys and interesting girls. With that said, let's dive into my thoughts.

All right, Sara Thomas is the daughter of the Storm's coach Scott Thomas. So, Sara has vow never to get involved with a hockey player, because her father's the coach. However, it's more than that. Oh it stems from her abandonment issues from her mother. With that said, Sara tends to push everyone away before they can leave her. Throughout the story, she kind of comes off as a bitch. Seriously, you wonder why Cam puts up with her, but he gets her which scares her to death. It doesn't help that she's knocked up. Those hormones wreak havoc on anyone, so I will give her a little leeway.

In the Stars by Ava Stone

So, I got a chance to read Ava Stone's In the Stars. This will be her new novella on April 15. I know tax day, but be on the lookout if you are a fan of hers. Anyway, I went into this totally blind. All I knew it was about a guy and a girl and they get together.

So, this is what I gather about the story. Nathaniel Carrick severed his country and was awarded for bravery a viscountcy and some dilapidated home. He became the first Viscount Healeyfield. Now he needs to marry someone with a money to help restore his crumbling estates. His commander came up with a brilliant plan to marry off his daughter to Nathaniel. After all she does come with a nice dowery that could help his estates. However, there is one problem. Now Wilhemina Throssell (Mina) is a bit odd. Better yet she's unique. She's not like an ordinary miss. Oh no, she believes all sorts of magical creatures and other stuff. Good thing it's not the 1600s. So, we have this potential couple who are opposite from one another. Anyway, Mina goes to a fortune teller to find out what lies in her future. She was given a piece of information that's suppose to help guide her to find the right guy. Now this causes problems for Nathaniel, and isn't all about money. No, he actually starts to fall for Mina. Now will Mina focus on what was told to her or will take a look in her heart?

In the Stars is a quick sweet story about destiny and being open to new possibilities. I adore how Nathaniel actually kept an open mind when it came to Mina. I had to chuckle a couple times, because Nathaniel is so level-headed and having a conversation with Mina was an interesting event. In the Stars is a cute charming reading. So, if you are looking a quick read that fits the bill, you might consider giving it a try.

Copy provided by the author

Rating:

An Encounter at the Museum by Claudia Dain, Deb Marlowe, Ava Stone, & Michelle Marcos

Todays read takes us on a journey through the British Museum. I don't know about you, but I always love museums. Through the eyes of these authors we will see a lot of the Reading Room and some animals through our tour. As we see what An Encounter at the Museum will bring us.

A Chance Encounter

Claudia Dain

In this story James Cavershame, the natural son of the Duke of Aldreth and Zoe Auvray. That is such a nice way of saying bastard. Anyways, he happens to go to the Bristish Museum and meet an enchanting young lady by the name of Elizabeth Ardenzy. However, there is only one thing standing in the way of there love and that is her father. After all it is every fathers dream to have his daughter marry a title gentleman. Will there love conquer all or will it fizzle?

An Unexpected Encounter

Deb Marlowe

In this story we meet Lisbeth Moreton who happens to be waiting at the muesum for a friend by the name of James Vicker. However, he never comes. Fortunately, she happens to stumble upon a young girl by the name of Aurelia. Which Aurelia was able to convince her trustee, Edmund Banke, Baron Cotwell, to hire Lisbeth as her governess. Pretty ingenious of the young girl. Sounds like Lisbeth won't be toss to streets. Let's hope for the best.

Encounter with an Adventurer

Ava Stone

Andrew Yeats, Viscount Brookfield heads to the museum to find his friend Ian MacLaren, Earl of Ericht, when he hears a woman berating another young woman. Intrigued by the young woman, decides to have a conversation with her (if you know anything about regency time this is a a big no-no). Lucinda Potts (Lucy) is also intrigued by the young man, after all he's been on many adventures. Maybe Drew will be willing to take Lucy on an adventure too?

Bad Luck Encounter

Michelle Marcos

Our final encounter, we meet Isha Elmwood who happens to stumble upon Bad Luck. He's making a mess of things for her family life. Let's hope things turn around for Isha and her family.

There is the quick sum up of each story. Overall, I enjoyed each of the stories and I found them all delightful in there own ways. I know that in A Chance Encounter we see some characters that are familiar to those who are familiar with Ms. Dain's Courtesan Chronicles. If any of you are familiar with Ms. Stone's books you would recognize of some of the characters in Encounter with an Adventurer. So, if you are looking for stories that will take you to the British Museum, you might want to checkout An Encounter at the Museum. Plus each stories leaves with that heart-warming feeling with their happy endings.

Copy provided by author

Rating:


Purchase Links:
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A Summons from His Grace (Regency Christmas Summons)

All right, we have finally reached the last book in the Regency Christmas Summons. YAY! We have been able to witness a number of weddings in the last three books, might as well continue on, right? Without further ado I bring you A Summons from His Grace.

Compromise for Christmas

Jane Charles

Elizabeth Whitton has been working undercover for the Home Office. She has been in Paris pretending to be Lisette Renard for sometime when her grandfather had summon her home. Being a spy had been going well up until then. Not only is she suppose to come home, but she must also bring home her imaginary husband Jean Pierre Bouvier (which happens to be really John Phillip Trent). Trying to get out of a country without getting caught might be a challenge for the both of them. Lets hope they can make it out.

It Could Only Be You

Olivia Kelly

Harrison Connolly barely makes it back to England when falls at the feet of Lily Beaumont. Fortunately, Lily was able to nurse him back to health. As they start to get to know each other, a bombshell happens to come knocking. That wily Duke will always get his way. Will this affect the budding relationship or will it help progress? Hmm, I guess you have to read. 

Becoming a Lady

Phyllis Campbell

The final story. In this story we meet Dorothy Paxton who is the illegitimate child of Lord George Whitton, which makes her a grandchild of the Duke of Danby. Since Danby is calling for all his family, he sent out Calvin Seton, a former scout officer, to search out his granddaughter. Lets just say it is a memorable meeting in New York. Will Danby accept her or will she hightailed back to New York.

So, what I thought of the last book. First off it has been a lot of fun re-reading these stories and seeing how they all turn out. With Ms. Charles we find ourselves barely escaping the clutches of the French. In Ms. Kelly's story we find hope to bring family back together. And finally, we have Ms. Campbell story of the Duke making the amends to the past.

So, we have just finished the last book in Regency Christmas Summons and we have seen the Duke of Danby make at least 13 matches over four books. Overall it has been amazing and I have loved how all these women brought a story to life. So, I hope you have been enjoying these adventures as I have. In the closing epilogue we find out that Duke has a few grandchildren who escaped his reach this holiday. Hopefully they will be married one day. The ones who escape his grasp are: Nicolas Beckford, the Baron Edgeworth; Lady Miriam Thornhill, Lady Whitton (she eventually marries Viscount Marston); Lady Olivia Foster; Robert Goddard; Thomas Goddard. I hope these grandchildren find a spouses soon.

Since this is the holiday seasons and a time for giving. All those would like a chance to win a $10 gift card to Amazon (US only) have to comment on What is your favorite Christmas romance? I need to start making the list for next year.

Merry Christmas to all!

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A Summons from the Castle (Regency Christmas Summons)

Looks like the Duke has done well for himself, after all he has manage to get 7 out of 19 grandchildren married off. He must be proud of himself. Now we will see three more marriages occur in A Summons from the Castle. Oh let's see what's in store for us.

An Unintended Journey
Catherine Gayle

In this story we meet Abigail Goddard, who's upset to see her grandmother pass away. Right before Abigail's grandmother passes, she informs her son, Hugh Goddard, a family secret that she almost carried to her grave. The secret was who is his birthfather, who is none other the Duke of Danby (cue the music of shock).

Wesley Cavendish, the Earl of Fordingham's second son, has had feelings for Abigail since they have know each other. However, couldn't really do anything about it cause of his father. Yet, could there be a chance that they might have a future? It's a long shot, but could being a long lost granddaughter to almighty Duke of Danby help? Hmm, we shall see.

A Caribbean Jewel for Christmas
Suzie Grant

In this story we meet Captain Randall Whitton, who carries a huge chip on his shoulder from his grandfathers treatment to his father many years ago. However, he must get past the chip since he has been summon to return to the castle. Before he could leave he must meet with a conniving Commander. Which didn't go as well as Commander Blythe had hope.

So, Commander Blythe turn to his attention on Jewel Derington to try to persuade our dear old Captain. Since Jewel really didn't want to do this, but making the deal with the devil was the only way to free her father. Gosh, I hate blackmail, especially when the life of the love one is on the line. Sounds like Captain Whitton's goose is cooked or is it?

Winning a Lady's Heart
Christi Caldwell

In this story the Marquess of Tweksbury sets out his theory that the fall doesn't fall far from the tree when it comes to Nathaniel Winters, the Earl of Pembroke. By meddling in his daughter's life, Lady Alexadria Foster, he set out to break up the courtship. However, the Duke of Danby is all knowing and sets out to rectify the situation. Will there be a happy ending for Nathan and Alex? Let's hope so.



It's probably a good thing that Danby is not in the modern day. Even though these stories are set in the Regency Era, he somehow has eyes and ears everywhere. Kind of scary of his all knowing about his children and grandchildren. Could you imagine if he had the internet, twitter, Facebook, or an iPhone? His family would be in a world of trouble.

With that said, book three of Regency Christmas Summons has come to an end and we must move on to the last book. Before I can do that I leave you my thoughts of each story. Ms. Gayle brings us a tale of a story about a girl who started out as a maid and was able to raise from her station. Ms. Grant brings us a swashbuckling tale about deceit and smuggling. This was the story that got me interested in reading other stuff from Ms. Grant. Last but not least, Ms. Cadwell brings us a story of a horrible father who tried to destroy his daughter's happiness. However, it being set in Christmastime we are able to find those happy endings. I hope you get a chance to read these stories, because I have enjoy them. I would like you all to enjoy them too. So, happy holidays and I will see you all soon.

Rating:

A Summons From The Duke (Regency Christmas Summons)

Continuing with the Regency Christmas Summons anthology with book number 2, we get see that mischievous Duke of Danby continue with his Machiavelli tendency. Good times ahead, I tell you. So, here are the next three stories in the anthology.

Loving Mister Lockwell
Jerrica Knight-Catania

Poor Lady Isabel Whitton. It's so hard when all you want to do is have your nose in the book, while the rest of your family rather see you doing other things that young ladies are suppose to do. Now she's stuck at the castle with the whole family coming. Not a great place to be for an introvert like Izzy.

Izzy's life got a little more crazier with the arrival of Lord Heathfield and his guest Mr. Damien Lockwell. Being a third son and in her mind a scoundrel and so forth. Yet, Damien can't keep himself away from Izzy, like a bug to a light. Crazy after all since he has no desire to marry, but could he change his tune?

A Second Chance for Christmas
Lilia Birney

A couple of years ago, Philip Whitton thought it would be easier to end his life in order to escape the hurt that was caused by Emily Ware when she married Mr. Barlow. However, his family was able to stop him in the nick of time. So, the Duke of Danby thought it would be a great idea to send off to Italy to study music.

Now the Duke has summoned him home, but he still feels the pain of loss. However, fate has given him a second chance of love when he comes across Emily Barlow trying to walk to the next coaching inn. Will they both be able get past the social barriers that Emily thought there was when they were last together? Or will she hurt Philip again?

Twice Upon a Time
Samantha Grace

Leander Thornhill, Baron Penlow, has come up with a scheme that will get his grandfather off his back about getting married. However his cousin, Julian Beckford fears for his cousin has lost his mind and the plan is going to crash and burn. Of course Lee is not worry at all, what can go wrong after all they are getting an actress to pretend to be his wife.

However, they capture a young woman who isn't an actress or a whore, but a midwife. Miss Felicity Halliday has a knack for taking care of people. Especially when she help take care of their Aunt Alice years ago. Now she has to masquerade as Lee's wife, but will this charade go up in smoke? Will she suffer the consequences of Lee's impulsive idea?

My thoughts on all these story: In each of the story, the Duke is still as scheming as ever. Coming close to death more times than they can count and yet still make a miraculous recovery in the nick of time. Absolutely genius. In Ms. Knight-Catania's story I enjoyed Izzy as a bookworm who would rather be in the library. Yet, she has met her match in Lockwell. In Ms. Birney's story gave hope that a second chance of love can have a happily ever after. Then Ms. Grace and her ability to make a hair brain scheme come to life.

Overall, I enjoy the Duke and his schemes to see his grandchildren married. I also enjoyed all the ladies stories, which gave hope to finding love in their stories. So, I hope you all get a chance check all the Regency Christmas Summons anthology, you might appreciate the Duke of Danby's tactics for matches.

Rating:
 

A Summons From Yorkshire (Regency Christmas Summons)

As you can see this is part of my Christmas read. Last year I got a chance to read this christmas anthology and truly enjoyed the mayhem that the Duke of Danby inflicted on his grandchildren. After all he summoned them all to the Yorkshire. So, I hope that you all get a chance to check out this mischievous Duke do his worst.

A Summon From Yorkshire is the first in the collection and I will share a little about each story and share my thoughts on them as a collective whole.

The Counterfeit Christmas Summons
Ava Stone

Emma Whitton has been in love with Alden Barrett, the Viscount of Heathfield, forever. Since her grandfather has summon all the grandchildren to the castle, what a perfect opportunity to bring Heath to her, after all Drew and Heath are good friends. So, Emma sends a letter to Heath as if it were from Drew. What could go wrong, right? There the story begins when he arrives at the castle and Drew is no where in sight. Hmm.

The Viscount's Sweet Temptation
Aileen Fish

Lady Harriet Thornhill knows her wily grandfather all to well, and has thought of thwarting his plans to marry her off when she see's her friend's Ellie's parents coach. What a perfect escape to travel with her friend? So, she made her escape and enter the coach. Unbeknownst to her that her friend was not in the coach, but her brother Archibald Napier (Archie), Viscount Morley. Oh no, right. Well, it certainly gets a bit interesting. Will Morley do the right thing or will he hope to get out of this situation unscathed? Hmm.

Gift of Seduction
Julie Johnstone

Andrew Whitton, the Earl of Hardwick, was an idiot to let Charlotte Milne go when his father put the pressure on to let her go awhile ago. Somehow, he must find a way to rectify the situation and get the girl he loves back. Yet he might be to late when he hears that she might marry the another. ACK! No! Or will there be greater force that will help these love birds to mend their broken hearts?

Now my overall thoughts on all three stories. First off and I will probably repeat this a couple of times, but it is amazing how 12 ladies got together to make a four book anthology for Christmas. Plus to have the stories mesh well. So, the first three stories had something that stuck out to me. For Ms. Stone's story I  was snicker over the situation. I mean you got to love a fake out letter. Ms. Fish's story I loved the awkward conversation between mother and daughter. For a common conversation, it's hilarious to read. Last in this book, Ms. Johnstone brought hope that true love can conquer all. So, if you are looking for historical romance Christmas read, you might want to check out book one of The Regency Christmas Summons. If anything you should read the stories to see how that wily Duke gets his way.

Rating:

eARC: To Catch a Captain by Ava Stone

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone and those who are not in the US happy Thursday. If you have been reading my blogs for the past few months you would know that I'm a huge Ava Stone fan and absolutely love her writing, and adore most of her characters. However, there has been one character I've had the hardest time with and that would be Captain Russell Avery.

I'm really surprise on how soft I went on him in the last review, because if you follow me on twitter I wasn't so nice. I actually really despised him and thought he deserve what he got in the end of The English Lieutenant's Lady. After all he didn't love the girl he was betrothed to and treated her more like an object. Let's be honest that doesn't go over well with me. Without further ado let me share Ava's newest book To Catch a Captain and what I thought of it.

We catch up with Captain Russell Avery at his brother's home not really morning the lost of Phoebe Greywood, but just suffering from a wounded pride. It wasn't like he was in love with the girl, but his pride took a toll. Poor Russ. Sorry he won't get any sympathy from me. Anyways, he meets Bridgett Kelly while staying at his sister's home in Bayhurst Court. Lets just say he was struck by Bridgett appearance.

Now my thoughts. First off, Russ is still not my favorite guy, but he has risen a notch or two. He does have some redeemable qualities in the story. I mean when a guy goes beats up a dude that tried to kill Bridgett, because she happens to be Irish deserves to rise a little. There were times I did burst out laughing at Russ, because I thought they were funny. (Yes, I do have a mean bone in my body). However, I do love Bridgett; I think her character was the sweetest and kindest. I think she is perfect for Russ, even though he has some major flaws. Overall, I thought the book was a sweet story and as painful as it is for me to say this I'm glad Russ found happiness. It was a pretty good read and I hope you get a chance to read Russ' story and the other books in the Heroes Return trilogy.

With all that said, I hope that y'all come back next week to meet Captain Russell Avery as I get to know him better. Maybe he will change my opinion of him as he clears the air of somethings. I hope I didn't scare him off.

Other than that I hope y'all are having a wonderful day and enjoy the stories you are reading.

eARC provided by the author

Rating:

eARC: A Season to Remember (an anthology)

Another anthology from my favorite ladies. This go around we have A Season to Remember by Ava Stone, Catherine Gayle, Jerrica Knight-Catania, and Jane Charles. If you have read any of the previous anthologies you would remember some of the characters. If not that's ok. This time they are focusing on Louisa Whitton and the Bartlett family. Trust me it's an adventure to read. So, here is my quick overview of each of the stories and my thoughts:

Devil in Her Dream
Jane Charles

Everyone believes the perfect husband for Louisa is a vicar. However, she doesn't want to succumb to that fate. Plus, she's afraid her grandfather might marry her off to some poor sap that she doesn't really like. After all he still has a special license with her name on it.

Devlin Bartlett, Viscount Marston, has three sisters he needs to marry off before he can settle down and start his own family. However, that is all foiled when he meets Louisa Whitton and is charm by her. Yet, it seems Devlin brings out the worse of Louisa. Is it possible for Devlin to realize he needs Louisa before it's to late?

My thoughts: It's always fun when family and friends join the crusade to fix you up with the guy of your dreams. Does it always work? No, but in a story it has too, right?  I love how everyone pictures Louisa as one thing, yet they really don't know her. Still Devlin is able to see past the facade.

To Enchant An Icy Earl
Catherine Gayle

Earl of Fordingham is trying to mend fences with his brother is not having any success. If you had read any of the Duke's Summons you will remember Tristan Cavendish had a falling out with his brother Wesley.

Anyways, Calista Bartlett heartbroken from a previous attachment to Lord Ellis decides she doesn't want anyone like him. So, she takes matters into her own hands, which would be out of character for her.

She approaches Lord Fordingham and basically begs him to ask for an introduction from her chaperone. I know shocking and fast of the girl. Not sure what brought it on and if he would actually carry through. Shock by the request and follows through. Now the question is will this carry on to a real courtship? Or just end after the introduction? Another good question would be can Fordingham mend the bridge with his brother?

My thoughts: Lord Fordingham is such a boor in the story. Yet, you can't help but like the guy, because he knows what he wants and go afters it. A lot of people don't like heroes who are like that. However, I think its character building, especially when they fall in love. Those types are usually the ones to fall hard. I love how Calista took matters into her own hands.

My Lord Hercules
Ava Stone

Lord Harrison Casemore is not a gentleman with a pristine reputation. However, when he sees something that's not right he will take matters into his own hands, especially when he finds a young lady dress in mens garb.

Miss Miranda Bartlett is worried about a friend and will do anything to find out the truth. Even if it calls for her to dress like a gentleman and enter a seedy gaming hell.

By luck, Harry finds Miranda and basically rescues her from disaster and sends her on home. You would think this was the end of the story. No, no, no, it's just the beginning. Can Harry be the hero Miranda needs? Or just fade away into the sun set or in this case the morning light?

My thoughts: For one thing, you have to love when a girl is willing to risk her reputation for a friend. I mean that's loyalty at its finest. Then you have the hero who doesn't have the best reputation, yet will take on the world for the girl. If that doesn't scream love, I don't know what does.

A Penny for Your Thought
Jerrica Knight-Catania

Finally we arrived to Penelope Bartlett, the youngest sister of the Bartlett family. Just barely out and she is feeling a little down. After all, a lot has happen during the year. First her older brother and father passed away. Then her other brother gets married and both her sisters get engage. That's a lot to take in all at once. Well, Drake Lockwell, Viscount Flitwick stumbles upon a crying Penelope.

Drake is able to comfort the young lady and has desire to see if there is still an attraction in the daylight. Can't trust the moonlight, since everything looks lovely underneath the stars. So, the next day he calls on Penny and finds that he is strongly attracted to her. Basically, he wants to start a courtship with her.

Aww, young love. However, it is squash before it even starts. Devlin has issue with Drake and tries to put a stop. Yes, we know how well that goes over. Of course with a forbidden love in sight, all directions lead to Gretna Green.

Now the question is will Drake and Penny make to Gretna Green with no problems? If they do will they have the happily ever-after? Or will a problem arise?

My thoughts: An anthology is not complete without a trip to Gretna Green. As impulsive as Drake and Penny's decision was, it made a fantastic read. Was perfect ending for the youngest Bartlett.


Overall thoughts: I absolutely loved all the stories. I mean they were all very entertaining and flowed very well together. I'm so glad these ladies were able to get the story of the Bartlett family love lives together. I truly look forward to more stories.

So, I would check this book out and see if all siblings end up with their own happy endings. So, long and happy reading.


eARC provide by the wonderful ladies of the book.



Rating:


   

The English Lieutenant's Lady by Ava Stone

This last week Ava came out with her new book. I'm always excited when she comes out with a new work, because I just love her work. In my last blog entry I talked about her first book in Heroes Returned. I wondered why Philip ended up with an injury and he didn't have it in A Scandalous Pursuit. Well, my internal question was answered in The English Lieutenant's Lady.

Well, the Avery boys and Moore were call back to duty. Now they are returned again. We know that Captain Avery is engage to Miss Phoebe Greywood. However, he seems to forget about her and she  starts to question the reason she's engage to him. Lieutenant Tristan Avery can't stand his brother's whoring around and can't stand the treatment of the girl. Phoebe and Tristan have this animosity towards each other that stems from a misunderstanding in a previous book. Even though Tristan isn't too fond of Phoebe, he still can't stand his brothers treatment of her. However, Tristan and Phoebe find themselves drawn to each other. Who would have guess that one?

Overall, I love this book. Tristan is such a great guy and too bad more guys aren't like him. He does the honorable thing even when it hurts him so much. I can't wait for the last book in the Heroes Returned and it should be interesting to see how Captain Avery learns to cope with his humiliation. So, I hope you get a chance to check this book out. By the way, out of Cordelia's brothers Tristan is my favorite.

My Favorite Major by Ava Stone

Well, good morning y'all. Well, I have finished My Favorite Major, and decided to write about it today. Ok, let me be honest I read it when it first came out in early March and I hadn't decided to start my blog yet. However, I decided to re-read it again since book 2 of the Heroes Returned just came out. I needed to be prepare myself for the next book. So, let me get on what I thought of the book.

Major Philip Moore is still suffering from a broken heart, since we read about his return in A Scandalous Pursuit. Where he lost the girl of his dreams to the wicked Duke of Kelfield. However, his buddy Russell Avery thinks he needs to get over Olivia and move on. Russ thinks that Miss Amelia Pritchard is the perfect solution to the problem. Amelia decided to come stay at her cousin's house to escape an ex-fiancé. While in London she meets Major Moore and has decided to become his friend. No use getting high hopes since he has a broken heart. However, situations throw them together and they might find out that they actually suit each other.

I like this story, because I love happy endings. I'm so happy to see Philip find love. You wouldn't think he would after reading what happen in A Scandalous Pursuit. This is really sweet story with a an honorable, kind major and a sweet tenderhearted girl. However, you do have a psycho ex-fiancé roaming around. I hope you enjoy this book as I have.

A Scandalous Past by Ava Stone

We are drawing to the conclusion of the Scandalous series. It's always sad to see an end of a series. However, I'm always hopeful that this is not the end. After all, there are a couple of characters from the series I would love see marry and have there own happily ever after. However, this is not the place to mention which ones need there need there own stories. Today we are focusing on A Scandalous Past. You remember how I said that the first and second book go well together. The same can be said with the third and fourth book.

In this book we find Miss Cordelia Avery wanting to escape her mothers house and for good reason. She figures that if she marries a guy like the Duke of Kelfield everything will be all right. She believes she found it in Kelfied's best friend the Marquees of Haversham, Marcus Grey (another scoundrel I love). Marcus is just looking for a certain kind of action and he figures he's found it with Cordie. Then we have the honorable Brendan Reese, Earl of Clayworth (a.k.a Lord Adonis among the ton, which he hates that name). Brendan is looking for these secret letters his mother wrote years ago and he figures that the Avery's have it due to the fact there family crest has a lion in it. In a way, he starts courting Cordie and realize he can't live without her. Cordie is torn between here the feelings in heart and freedom the freedom she wants.

However, if you really think about it, following your heart will usually lead you to the freedom you are searching for. Key word usually. What you will find here: A mad dash to Gretna Green (those are always fun), blackmail, and missing secret letters.

After reading this book for a third time, I think this book is number two in favorite in the series. To be honest, I think it has a lot to do with Marcus Gray. He is just... well, words just can't describe him. However, the fight over Cordie's affections between him and Brendan make it worthwhile adventure. I do hope you have enjoy my little reviews on my favorite series and I really do hope you guys go and pick it up.

A Scandalous Pursuit by Ava Stone

If anyone who knows me would know that the third book in the Scandalous Series is my all time favorite book. Come on my favorite scoundrel is in this book. I'm so excited to be writing my review about A Scandalous Pursuit.

Well, it all starts out at a house party at Prestwick Chase and if you remember it's mention in A Scandalous Charade. The house party is not going so well, and the young ones are bored. A lot can happen when the young are bored, most of the time it's not good. Which it is are good fortune that trouble is a brewing. Alexander Everett, the wicked Duke of Kelfield hears something that leads him to his wardrobe. Of course the wicked Duke would be naked when he opens the wardrobe and out comes a wide-eye innocent  Miss Olivia Danbury. What a fun way to start a book? Alex has decided to make it his goal to capture Olivia's heart before the rumors of her ruination hit the fan. Too bad things never go according to plan. Now they need to marry in haste to save Olivia reputation. Is that really enough, who knows? With a marriage of convince, will it work and will the wicked Duke and his wife find love in the process? Who is to say?

However, what you will find in the book is a hurried marriage to a very wicked Duke, which makes it oh so fun. Olivia's ex-betroth coming home from France, yes that can make things a little complicated. You have to love finding a duel in the book. I'm afraid if I say anymore I might tell you the whole book, because I love this book. As I said at the beginning this is MY FAVORITE book in the series. So, I hope you are getting a chance to read this series and will continue on.

A Scandalous Secret by Ava Stone

I'm so glad that Ava wrote this story, heres why: In the third book you see that Astwick acquires a wife somewhere along the line between the second and the third book. BeforeI read the third, I always thought Astwick needed a wife, because he was such a great guy. Then come to find out he has a wife. Hold up, where did she come from? That always puzzled me.

Heres the sum up of the novella: We have Lady Hannah Campbell coming back to England after being on the continent for 12 years and bringing back two sons. Chester Peyton, the Marquess of Astwick needs a wife after he made the bargain with the dragon (his mother) last year. However, Hannah's brother James MacFadyn, the Earl of Carteret has this animosity towards Astwick, which is explain in this story. A love so pure that was destroyed by a hateful dead brother.

Can there love be rekindle? Well obviously it can, if you read my opening. However, the story bridges the others together. Plus, its a quick read and won't take you very long to read. I hope you are enjoying this series and if not. Why not?

A Scandalous Charade by Ava Stone

Here is my excuse for this week on why it has taken me so long to finish a book. Well, this week I have been sucked into the Game of Thrones. I started watching season 1 sometime last week and I made it my goal to get all caught up before the next new episode. In doing so I have slack off in my reading (as I hang my head down in shame).  Now I am all caught up my watching, I can get back to business to review books I read.

The previous blog talks about A Scandalous Wife, and now we are moving on to book 2 A Scandalous Charade. I would call this a sister book to the first book, because they share some of the same timeline. However, they do splinter off nicely and you do have two separate stories from each other. By the way was done very nicely, I did not feel like I was reading the first book.

In this book, we focus more on the relationship of Juliet St. Claire and Lucas Beckford. Juliet is described as the "Ice Princess" to all that know her and an heiress. Luke is a scoundrel of the first order. Luke's buddy Hayward enlists his help to melt the "Ice Princess" so he can marry her and get her money. Luke gets to know her and decides that he wants Juliet for himself. Not to marry of course, what scoundrel does that, right? They strike up a bargain, so they can pretend to court each other. However, it goes horribly wrong. She had the audacity to fall in love with him. After making a biggest mistake of her life she does what most do in her circumstances, flee to the country. That's when her life gets turn upside down and needs to flee for her life.

What you will find in this book: compromising situations, attempted murder (who doesn't like that), death, a bastard of an uncle, and of course a scoundrel.

As I said before I love this series. And if you followed my advice about the first book you need to get the second one to see if everything works out with Juliet and Luke.

A Scandalous Wife by Ava Stone

I'm so excited to do a review on this book. Lets be honest I'm excited that I will be reviewing this series in the next couple of weeks. I LOVE this series. You get see why in todays post.

Let me give you the background on how I came across this book. About this time last year Amazon was suggesting this series to me. I have been reading romance novels for about a year now (I took a hiatus on reading them), and was looking for something new to read. I told myself what the heck the story plot sounded interesting to me.

At the opening of the book you meet Robert Beckford, the Earl of Masten at his sister's ball. He catches a glimpse of a beautiful woman. Little does he know that it is his wife, Lydia. Five years earlier Robert marries the girl to save the reputation of his family. After the vows were said and done he dumps her off at one of his country estates never to think of her again. A little older now, Lydia decides that she is tired of being cooped up in her gilded prison. So, Lydia makes her way to London to enjoy a season, no longer caring what her husband thinks. Robert has an urge to get the situation under control again and get his wife back to her place back in the country. He comes up with a plan that no man of his standing could fault him.

What you will find in this book will be a scoundrel of a brother, a bastard of a brother, a vindictive ex-mistress, and an unfortunate past that makes this book a worth while read.

ALL my really good friends know that I LOVE this series. After reading the first book I told each of them (the ones who love a good romance) to get this book. So, you really should check this book out and I'm sure you will love it.

The Betting Season Anthology

I'm so excited that I finally got a chance to read The Betting Season. This book has been in my kindle waiting for me to read it. However, I kept putting it off. I know, it's a shame. Especially, when I really love the authors that went in it together. The four authors that were part of this anthology are Ava Stone, Catherine Gayle, Jane Charles, and Jerrica Knight-Catania. I have read books from each of these authors and love their writing.

Now about the book: What would the season be like without the famous betting book at Whites? I bet pretty dull, so we have four stories writing by four authors. In this collaboration we have four friends Lady Philippa Casemore, Lady Georgianna Bexley-Smythe, Lady Moria Kirtwood, and Miss Patience Findley who are making there coming out together. Somehow each of them ended up in the infamous betting book at Whites. How are they ever going to make a decent match with that much notoriety?

The first story is by Ava Stone called, "By Any Other Name." We have Lady Philippa  Casemore (also called Pippa) who is trying to avoid the devilish handsome Earl Of St. Austell, Jason York. However, she can't remember what he looks like. Which could be a problem within itself. Jason uses his lesser title to get close to Pippa, which it makes oh so much fun.

The second story is by Catherine Gayle called, "Flight of Fancy." Lady Georgianna Bexley-Smythe (also called Georgie) who has her heart set on adventure. However, her brother's friend Cedric Loring, the Earl of Montague had been asked to keep an eye on the family has a hard time keeping track of Georgie. Especially, when his stodginess is trying keep her out of the clutches of Lord Haworth.

The third story is by Jane Charles called, "Landing a Laird." Lady Moira Kirtwood would anything to get away from her mother. I don't blame her on that count. She is willing to marry a Scottish Laird and live in Scotland to get away from her mother. Gideon Baxter, Viscount Ainsley is out looking for a bride, but no one is to know this (shush). Gideon gets to know Moira and comes to really like her, but can't understand why she would want to live in Scotland. With all the stuff that happens to Moira, I would probably would have ran away and head to the continent or the Americas. Scotland would not be far enough away with a mother like hers.

The final story is by Jerrica Knight-Catania called "The Marriage Trap." Miss Patience Findley is trying to get past her father's scandalous actions and was fearful that she wouldn't land a husband. So, she enlist her cousin to make a scandalous bet in the book. Rowan Findley decides his friend Tristan Wafford, Baron Swaffham would work. The bet is made and Tristan on prowl to win his bet. Funny how rakes find out they actually have a heart after all.

All the stories were fun and entertaining. We have a reference from a previous anthology the Regency Summons Collection (by the way is worth the read, but it takes place during Christmas so you might want to wait till then or do a Christmas in July theme).  This is worth the read. So, go check it out.

Wrong Kind of Paradise by Suzie Grant

Let me start I really like the adventure romance story that Suzie Grant writes, I mean she really knows how to captive a reader. With that said let me get on with my review.

We start our journey somewhere in Caribbean Sea in 1689. Of course we would start there after all it is a pirate story. We meet Captin De'haviland's daughter (the pirate), Angel De'haviland, who is head over heels in love with her dad's friend. Yeah, we know this is going to go over well dad. Dad's friend is none other than privateer Blac Barclay who happens to be 12 years her senior. Age really doesn't matter when your love, right.

Life takes an unexpected turn, when her father is capture by Lieutenant Charles Worthington. She comes to find out that the man she loves and friend to her father is the one who betrayed them all. Oh no, this cannot be. Angel's course of life is change in a blink of an eye, because of untold secrets that might have saved her from heartache. However, that's just speculation. So, we see her stealing Barclay's ship and set sails to rescue her father.

Now we have a steaming hot mad Barclay who's determine to capture the alluring hellion that stole his ship. Determine to capture and teach her a lesson she would never forget.

A swashbuckling tale of deceit and mystery, which happens to be a fun read for a pirate adventure. Will we find our heroine forgive the man she loves or continue the crash course she set out for? I know the answer, but I think you should find out yourself and read Wrong Kind of Paradise.