ARC: Shadow Rising by Kendra Leigh Castle

 All right, I've had this book for almost a month staring at me, saying "you need to read me." However, there were other books that were calling me. So, I have been putting it off. I know, shame on me. I have been meaning to get to Shadow Rising  by Kendra Leigh Castle. So, here is what's it all about:

Ariane is locked up in her gilded cage wishing there was more she could do. She is worried about her friend Sammael who has disappeared from Grigori home. Taking matters into her own hands she leaves her home in search of Sammael. Where she comes into contact with a member of the House of Shadows.

Damien Tremaine is hired by the Grigori to go in search of Sammael when he comes across Ariane. Ariane is a fierce little thing and willing to defend herself at whatever cost. However, circumstances throw Damien and Ariane together, which they need to figure out how to work together. Since Shades are not know for working well with others, this is a challenge for Damien.

Well, this is a book three in the Dark Dynasties. Overall, I didn't feel like I was missing much, but it might be useful to go back to the previous two books. I believe that, if I had started with the future book four I might be a tad bit lost. Since this book really sets up for book four. Overall it was a pretty good read if you are looking for action and vampires. However, as a cautionary warning you might want to start with Dark Awaking  and Midnight Reckoning. Those books might be useful.

That's all for today, so happy reading.

eARC: Loving Lady Marcia by Kieran Kramer

As a kid, I would stay up late watching TV, especially on Nickelodeon which would turn into Nick at Night. This is where I got my first glimpse of The Brady Bunch. I can still hear the opening of theme song. With that all said, I'm so excited that Kieran Kramer has paid homage to an iconic TV family and wrote a regency version of the Brady Bunch.

So, let's meet the first book in Kieran's new series The House of Brady, Loving Lady Marcia:

Lady Marcia Sherwood is perfect in every way. Even perfect girls make mistakes, but hers cost her virtue. With that kind of price Marcia decides to forgo her season and become a teacher at the school she has been attending.

Duncan Lattimore, the Earl of Chadwick, tries so hard to fix the world's problem or at least his brother's screw ups. Especially, when he finds out what he done to Marcia all those years ago. Now he's trying to rectify the situation, but Marcia wants nothing to do with him. Why would she when she believes Duncan is the reason his brother left her? Funny how life is not what it seems.

 Don't you love when a hero tries to take on the world and make it a better place? If you do, you will love Duncan Lattimore. He's the perfect hero and possible the perfect match for Marcia.

For all those who loved the The Brady Bunch growing up, you are going to love Kieran's new series The House of Brady. And if you are like me, you will notice some bits and pieces from the show modify to fit the regency period.

Just to let you know, I LOVED this book and I'm super excited to see more from The House of Brady. Loving Lady Marcia is a fun and animated read, which you should check out when it comes out in two weeks.

However, if you want to know more about Kieran's new book, she is doing her blog tour the rest of the month and you can check out all the blogs that she will be attending by going to her website: http://kierankramerbooks.com/tour/

Plus she is offering some super cute stuff.

ARC provide by NetGalley

eARC: A Lady and Her Magic by Tammy Falkner

What do you think of when you hear about fairies? I personally think that they are mischievous and up to no good, but maybe I'm wrong. Possibly miss in form; who knows? However, I know I just finished a charming book that happens to deal with fairies, which is A Lady and Her Magic by Tammy Falkner. Here's what the story is about:

We meet Sophia Thorne who happens to be a fairy come to help the Duke of Robinsworth's daughter and possibly him. However, Sophia wasn't assigned to the Duke's daughter, but her sister Claire. And you wonder why I think they're mischievous?

Ashley Trimble, the Duke of Robinsworth, is enchanted by Sophia by first sight. Rumor has it that he killed his first wife, which most young attractive ladies stay far away from him. Not Sophia; she doesn't take the hogwash that society feeds and judges the situations for herself.

As luck would have it, Sophia and her grandmother (by the way is definitely mischievous) were invited to a house party at Robinsworth home, which is hosted by his mother. What perfect way to get closer to Robinsworth's daughter. However, nothing ever goes according to plan. Ever since Sophia had set her eyes on Ashley she had practically broken all five of the Unpardonable Errors which her society has.

While reading this book, I learned there are two different types of fairies: Mission fairies and Gift fairies. Sophia falls under the Mission Fairies. By the way, the different fairies don't get along very well. Each has there own standards and rules, go figure. For future information garden gnomes are a bunch of gossipers, you might not want to have them around. Last but not least, next time you look at a fish you might take into consideration it might be bad fairy.

Overall, I found this book charming and enchanting. Words you might associate with fairies and I'm looking forward to reading more fairy adventures from Tammy Falkner. So, you might want to check this book out when it comes out in a couple of weeks.

ARC provider by NetGalley

Invitation to the Prince's Palace by Jennie Adams

Ok, today selection is total utter fluff. Nothing more than that. I mean last week I saw Invitation to the Prince's Palace at the BX, and thought "you know what, I want to read this." However, I held off.

Last night I headed to Wal-mart to get some milk, because we were out of whole milk. Just to let you know my son is a milk addict, seriously. I mean he will chuck his drink cup at me to let me know he wants more. Anyways, I'm digressing. Before I get to the dairy isle I head down the book isle, I know big mistake. Oh well. Then I see it, Invitation to the Prince's Palace. I couldn't resist, so I added to the shopping cart. Here's a quick sum up on the book:

Melanie Watson was trying to escape her aunt and uncle's home one morning. Thinking she was entering an unmarked cab she didn't ask too many questions and just wanted to get to the airport. Well, the driver wasn't a cabbie, but a prince ready to pick up her cousin. However, they didn't realize the mistake until it was too late.

Instead of Melanie's cousin, Prince Rikardo decides to go through the original plan with Melanie. The plan consist of them getting married for a couple of months, then separating. Each would live there own lives as if nothing happen after the few months of marriage. Sounds like a great plan, right? However, things don't always go according to plan. Which make's the original plan a tad bit complicated.

Alright. As I said at the beginning, this is fluff. Just a read to read. A sweet quick story that which my friend would call brain candy. That simple, so if you are looking for something light and fluffy you will find it in Jennie Adams Invitation to the Prince's Palace.

On a side note I would like to know what happens to Rikardo's brothers, and since the author is taking sometime off I'm going to waiting and hoping she will write more about this family. Especially, when there could be a secret long lost brother. Oh, I do hope she writes about the rest of them.

Time to go and I hope you are enjoying whatever your reading.

A Lady Can Never Be Too Curious by Mary Wine

Well, today I finished A Lady Can Never Be Too Curious by Mary Wine. Here's what the book is about:

You meet Miss Jannette Aston who is fascinated by all things Illuminist. However, she was raised with a father who can't stand anything that pertains to the Illuminist.

While hanging out with her friend Sophia Stevenson, she decides to head over to the Illuminist place to see if she could get in. Jannette manages to get into the building and learns she could possibly be a Pure Spirit. Pure Spirits are able to handle Deep Earth Crystals, which have a power to operate many things. The Illuminist aren't the only ones who want Jannette abilities, there are the Helikeians who would like her ability for evil.

In the story you learn about Jannette and where her family stems from. She is also dealing with the possibility that her mother could be a traitor to the Illuminist. With all this Jannette has to prove herself to Darius Lawley and learn the ways of the Illuminist.

Overall, I liked the book. It was an interesting read and it peaked my interest to want to read the next book whenever it comes out. I mean I need to know if the Illuminist are able to take down the Helikeians. Plus, I need to know what happens to Sophia since she has gotten wrapped up into a new situation. So, I'm looking forward to see what happens in the Steam Guardians Series. Hopefully, the Illuminist are able to conquer the Helikeians.

ARC provided by NetGalley

A Little Mischief by Amelia Grey

Yesterday I finished A Little Mischief. So, here is what the book is about:

We have a precocious heroine, Miss Isabella Winslowe. At first she didn't purposely seek out trouble, it just land it at her doorstep after her reading group.  She finds Gretchen Colebrooke hovering over a body. Both of them believe he's dead, so they decide to involve Gretchen's brother the Earl of Colebrooke.

When Daniel arrives back to Isabella's home to find there's no body and thinking it's a ploy to leg-shackle him. Isabella outrage by the notion, she would do something so low like that. They both agree that Gretchen is not to attend anymore of Isabella's reading group.

Later on that evening Daniel, Gretchen, and Isabella see the presume dead man. However, the happiness doesn't last long when they discover the man is actually dead. Now Daniel and Isabella decide to work together to figure out who-dune-it. While trying to solve the case, both have trouble keeping there mitts off each other.

Overall, I liked it. The story was adorable with the hero and heroine trying to keep things professional, yet have the hardest time fighting what feels so right. Both Daniel and Isabella have this need to protect Gretchen. So, if you are looking for a quick fun read with a dash of mystery I would suggest to you A Little Mischief by Amelia Grey.

ARC provided by NetGalley

Forever a Lady by Delilah Marvelle

This weekend I just finished Forever a Lady by Delilah Marvelle. I just have to say I was amazed with this book. Truly an emotional moving book.

The hero Matthew Joseph Milton learns a very hard lesson about life at the tender age of 20. His father loses the family paper to money a swindler. Left destitute you would think that it couldn't get worse, well your wrong. He lost his vision in one eye, because he was sticking up for a young boy.

Instead of crumbling, he decides to take matters into his own hands and becomes a man of ill-repute. Once a gentleman, now a thug and  a leader of a group called the forty thieves. Now seeking justice for those that have been wronged on the poor side of town.

Our heroine, Lady Bernadette Marie Burton, forever scandalize cause of what happen in New Orleans. Moves to New York under a new alias until her friend Mr. Astor asks for her help to get his granddaughter introduced to London society. So, she ends up going back to London.

She makes the acquaintance of Mr. Milton and has a quick love affair with him. Matthew believes she could be the one. However, circumstance prevents anything to happen. When this happens Matthew decides to become a better man. Is it enough to get Bernadette back?

I LOVED this book. You can't helped, but love Matthew and all his misguided self. Truly a gem who seems to have the worse luck and you cheer for him to come out on top. As I said at the beginning, it is an emotional moving book and worth a look at.

ARC provide by NetGalley

Wedded Bliss by Barbara Metzger

Well, I have been trying to get through some books, but I felt I needed to talk about a book. I figure I could tell you about a book I read a couple years, which was Wedded Bliss by Barbara Metzger. The first time I read this book, I thought it was alright. However, since I didn't have many books, I decided to re-read it again. On the second go around I really liked.  Here's a glance of what the book is about:

Robert Rothmore, the Earl of Rockford, comes home to find his boys are missing and have been staying at Mrs. Alissa Henning. As you can tell Rockford doesn't take the news lightly and marches over there. Upset he takes one of her boys who is also named William, thinking the child is his. She comes running out with a pistol. Yeah that would leave an impression.

Rockford comes up with an idea: his boys need a mother and Mrs. Henning needs a protector, why not kill two birds with one stone. So, they married. Alissa moves into his home and he goes back to London to woo the Austrian princess. Trouble starts to brew and she needs to go to Rockford for help and the game changer; she wants to have a baby girl.

This isn't conducive to his lifestyle and basically orders them out. While in London, things happen to make Rockford feel like a total CAD. You feel so bad for Alissa when she decides it was a mistake to come to London and heads back to house to start packing to go back to the country estate. Rockford decides to change, is it enough to get Alissa to stay?

After writing this, I really want to read this book again. However, I can't, other books await. Maybe one day I will be able to re-read this book. I hope that you get a chance to check it out. Happy reading.

In Search of the Perfect Cupcake

My Best Friend & I at Crush Cakes

 As you can tell I have cupcakes on my mind, I know totally productive. When I lived in California it was pretty easy to find a cupcake shop. However, coming to Montana I haven't found what I have been looking for. I mean is really that hard to find a stellar cupcake. The places I have tried have been all right, nothing to go "OMG, they have the best cupcakes."

So, I continue the search for the perfect cupcake and I'm always looking for suggestions for places to try. I don't care if they are out of state. You never know, I might be in that area one day.

Here are so of the cupcakes I have tried in California:

I don't have pictures of the first cupcake places my best friend and I visited, but I can tell you what they  were. We first drove to Pasadena and we found this place called Dots. Ok, we didn't just find it. I found it when I participated in the Pasadena 5k, but my husband wasn't taking the subtle hint that I wanted a cupcake from there. So, I decided to drag my friend with me there to get a cupcake. I know crazy, but it was a lot of fun. The cupcake I really there was a coconut lime cupcake. TASTY.

After that we took the Santa Monica Blvd, exited and travel down Santa Monica Blvd. We should have followed the GPS. Oh well, we were on an adventured to get to Sprinkles. Which took us awhile, after all it is in the LA area. Let me just say the cupcake was moist.

mint chocolate

Lemon cupcake with Raspberry

After are cupcake adventure I decided I want to try my hand at making cupcakes. My first one was a coconut cupcake. It was perfect and of course I didn't think to take a picture of it. So sad. My next attempt was a mint chocolate. Let just say I'm not that great at making a chocolate cake. I tried, right. My next attempt was a lemon cupcake with a raspberry cream cheese frosting. Now that was tasty.

Cupcakes & Beyond

My next cupcake adventure was in Poway (San Diego area) near the Target. The place is called Cupcakes & Beyond. As you the selection on the right. The cupcake in the top left corner is a Salted Carmel and that was the best one there.

Margarita Cupcake

 My last adventure with my best friend we went to Crush Cakes in Santa Barbara. Fabulous cupcakes! If you go there on a Friday get a Margarita cupcake, you won't go wrong with that one.

As you can see I have had a lot of fun finding these places. At the beginning I said I'm always looking for new places. So, let me know where I can find some good cupcakes.

Thief of Shadows by Elizabeth Hoyt

Last night I was able to finish Thief of Shadows. I have been hearing a lot about this book. The main thing I kept hearing was the hero was a virgin. I know. You don't find too many virgin heroes. Instead of focusing on the fact that the hero is a virgin let me tell you what the story is about.

Well, this is the fourth book in the Maiden Lane Series. All the stories of Maiden Lane take place in St. Giles. Not the safest place in London. We meet up with Lady Isabel Beckinhall who is to meet up with Mr. Winter Makepeace, the manger of the Home for Unfortunate Infants and Foundling Children. Yeah, I know a mouthful. Unavailable at the time she arrives she decided to head home, but Lady Beckinhall finds something in the road. Not really a something, but a someone, The Ghost of St. Giles.

The mysterious Ghost of St. Giles, goes around St. Giles saving the people while prancing around in a Harlequin outfit. No one knows who this masked man is, but the one who wears the mask. Which would surprise everyone. No one ever figure that the mild manner man, Winter Makepeace, would be the Ghost of St. Giles. Until he came across Isabel started figure out who the masked man is.

An amazing book by Elizabeth Hoyt. I love Winter's and Isabel's chemistry, each of them wears a mask in front of society not wanting the world to see their true selves. However, they are able to break down the walls for each other. Conquering fears that they both have to find their ultimate happiness. Such a wonderful book, which y'all should check out if you have a chance.






ARC from Netgalley

ARC: Pleasures of a Tempted Lady by Jennifer Haymore

Today's selection comes from Jennifer Haymore's Donovan Sisters series. We are checking out the fourth book in the series which is Pleasures of a Tempted Lady.

Eight years ago, Margaret Donovan was lost at sea and never seen again until she was spotted in a little floating boat by Captain William Langley. Will and his crew rescues Meg and the little boy with her. Will is in utter shock to see the love of his life alive. A miracle.

Meg has a hard time trusting Will, after all she just escaped a horrible wicked man by the name of Caversham. She is reluctant to share the secrets she keeps, but Meg gives a modify version to Will. Will's first mate, David Briggs, doesn't trust Meg and fears that Will be hurt helping her.

Meg is returned to her family and Will sticks around to rebuild the relationship they once had. By rebuilding the relationship they had before, Will had to drop a bombshell and Meg has a hard time with the information that she receives. In essence, Meg is learning to trust people again.

I liked this book. Pleasures of a Tempted Lady is an enjoyable read. Will is a hero you can love and he plays the hero part well. You have Meg's younger sister, Jessica trying to help her sister get out of trouble which leads her into trouble. Towards the end was a nail bitting experience. Overall, you might want to check out this book.

On a side note I plan to read the other sisters stories. So long and happy reading.

ARC: Touch Of A Scoundrel by Mia Marlowe

Touch of a Scoundrel is the third installment of the Touch of Seduction  series. Let me just say I do have the first book and I haven't gotten to read it yet. I know; shame on me. However, you know me and my habit of reading books out of order. I thought it would be fitting to do my review on Touch of a Scoundrel by Mia Marlowe, since it comes out this Tuesday. So, here's what you are in for:

You meet Emmaline Farnsworth and her foster father Montague Farnsworth who are trying to swindle Theordore Nash out of money. Little do they know that Teddy's coffers aren't exactly filled to the top.

Then you have Teddy's older wiser brother, Griffin Nash, the Earl of Devonwood, who doesn't trust Emmaline or her father at all. However, he can't seem to help the pull he feels toward her. Griffin tries to entice Emmaline to go after him, but Emmaline wants nothing to do with him after all it would jeopardize her future. No matter how hard they try to avoid there attraction, fate has already decided what the outcome should be. 

AMAZING book! I loved Touch of a Scoundrel. It's a definitely a page turner you don't want to miss.  Honestly, when I was reading it I couldn't put it down, I just needed to know what happen to Emmaline, Teddy, and Griffin and how it played out. Mia Marlowe is an amazing author that I plan to go back and read other works by her. 

So, what do you think of the cover? Isn't it fabulous?

Temptation and Twilight by Charlotte Featherstone

Yesterday I just finished Temptation and Twilight by Charlotte Featherstone. The third book in The Brethren Guardian series.

In the story, we see our hero Iain Sinclair, the Marquis of Alynwick, in his chambers of  with a woman who supposedly has information about the man called Orpheus. Debauching his way to get answers, Iain is emotionally closed off from the rest of the world, except to one. However, he never wants to reveal that information.

Lady Elizabeth York, a strong, beautiful, intelligent, and innocent woman. Well, not so innocent, after all she had a love affair with Iain 12 years ago and would love to forget that ever happen. Believing she's firmly on the self being almost 30, catches the eye of Lord Sheldon. She never thought she would have a suitor after loosing her eye sight around the age 19.

Iain is not to please to find Lizzy hanging on the arm of another man and decides to make his presences know. Basically marking his territory. However, Lizzy wants nothing to do with him after all the pain she suffered from him. Iain has information Lizzy has been dying to know and is willing to use it to get her back.

I liked Temptation and Twilight. However, I did find some of the parts of the story a bit slow at times. Overall, the story was well written and I didn't feel like I was missing information, because I hadn't gotten a chance to read the other stories. Towards the end it does pick up and I was shocked by some of the information revealed. Let me say, I would never have guess the ending and that makes it amazing. I hope you might get a chance to check out this book and possibly the series too. 



ARC copy provided by NetGalley

The Sleeping Night by Barbara Samuel

Today's pick is an amazing book to read. It's not something I would have picked if I had read the back of the book. The main reason I picked this book was because of the author and I like her work. So, when I saw that Barbara Samuel wrote The Sleeping Night, I had to read it.

The story starts off in Gideon, Texas in 2005 at a bookstore. These ladies are gathered there to hear a reading of Angel Corey's experience growing up in Gideon. As Angel starts reading her story, we go back to 1926 where we meet a young Angel and her friend Isaiah High and there special friendship. A friendship that would be looked down upon during that time, giving the fact that Angel is white and Isaiah is black. We jump ahead 20 years in the story, we find Isaiah returning from World War II and trying to keep his feelings for Angel hidden from everyone including himself. However, circumstances throw Isaiah in the path of Angel. They rekindle there friendship.

AMAZING! Giving the fact that there love for each would be forbidden in the 1940s or given any other decade until after the civil rights movement. I love how Angel loved him no matter what his skin color was, she truly saw him as a person she could admire. Isaiah trying to keep them both safe by hiding his true feelings for her. What a powerful and moving story that is really worth reading. It gives hope to true love.



ARC courtesy of Bell Bridge Books via NetGalley

Camping Adventure at Yellowstone

Entering the Yellowstone

This past weekend I got a chance to view the beautiful majestic Yellowstone National Park. I haven't seen anything like it before. Granted I haven't really travel that much. My parents told me I have been to Yosemite when I was a wee bit. Of course, I can't remember. I don't expect my youngest to remember this trip, but who knows we might make the trip again. I kinda hope so that way we can fix what went wrong on this camping trip.

First of all, we had to leave right after my husband got off work. I don't think that was the best laid plan. We ended up arriving at Yellowstone around 10pm. Granted we only live about 4-5 hours away and there was no traffic. Still not the brightest idea. Plus, we had a cranky 17 month old, who loves his bed and bedtime. I understand that my husband was excited to see his sister who lives in Texas.

We arrived at the campsite and the boy is screaming like a banshee and is ready for bed. We hand him off to grandma and grandpa and they cart him off to their hotel. Now that is how they camp. That doesn't seem like a bad idea with a little one. My daughter gets to sleep with her cousin in a trailer, while my husband and I get to sleep in a tent or the Bravada. Let me just tell you it is not comfortable to sleep in Bravada with a 6 foot tall guy. I think I would have enjoy being in a tent and freeze to death.

The next day waking up sore, not my idea of fun. However, we got to see some cool stuff for example:

We saw buffalos and crazy people trying to get close to the wild animal. Hello, Wild Animal.

Old Faithful

We also got a chance to see Old Faithful. I have to say that was pretty cool.

Chimpmunk

After viewing some of the sites at Yellowstone, we stayed the night with my in-laws. I must say was better than sleeping in a car. The next day we decided to spend the day checking out other sites and then head home. I think the 17 month old appreciated this idea.

another waterfall

Steam Boat Geyser 

Waterfall

So, here are the other things we got to see while we were there. I'm sure I can fill this with a ton more pictures, but I think that would be over kill.

Next time we do a trip like this again. I want to plan a little more and be better prepare. I personally like a plan of action. Hopefully the next time we go camping we can have that. Here's hoping.

I better get back to some reading.

Captured By A Rogue Lord by Katharine Ashe

After finishing Swept Away By A Kiss, I decided I needed to continue reading another book from Rogues of the Sea Series. The next book in the series is Captured By A Rogue Lord.

In this book, we meet Miss Serena Carlyle, the best way to describe her would be a day dreamer. If have met her family you wouldn't fault her for being a day dreamer. For example, she has vindictive step-mother (however, that is being nice and would rather call her something else) who cares only for herself and neglectful father. However, Serena would love to see everyone happy that she cares about; especially her step-sister Charity. Well, her step-mother decides that a match between Earl of Savege would be the best thing for Charity. Alexander Savege thought it might be a good idea to marry Charity Lucas until he meets Serena Carlyle. Alex finds Serena so much alluring.

Oh my gosh, I loved this story. Who wouldn't want to cheer for Serena to find her happily ever after. I mean she learned how to survive her nasty step-mother. Then you have Alex trying to decided if love is worth sacrificing his secret life. An amazing story worth giving a try. However, you need to remember this is my opinion.

Swept Away By A Kiss by Katharine Ashe

This weekend I made a plan to read all of Katharine Ashe's books. Well, that didn't happen, but I was able to finish Swept Away By A Kiss. If you haven't read any of Katharine Ashe's book, get yourself ready for a journey across the sea.

Lady Valerie Monroe is ready to return to her native England and she boards the ship that  will take her home.  When she boards the ship comes across Viscount  Steven Ashford. However, he is masquerading as Jesuit priest across the Atlantic. Trouble occurs while on the high see and they are taken captive by a crazy pirate. Let me be honest, crazy is putting it mildly. Steven has a mission to catch a peer who is involved in slave trading. Then we have Valerie who is caught in the middle of all this. While all this is happen Steven is trying his hardest to keep Valerie safe from all things, even him.

I adore this book. I found Valerie to be someone we can all look up to. She is strong willed and brave; she is willing to risqué everything to find her happiness. We have a reluctant hero, who is afraid to let fate take its course. With that said, if you get a chance, check out Swept Away By A Kiss you might enjoy it as I did.

Twice Tempted by Marquita Valentine

I'm excited to share a new debut that I got a chance to read these past couple of days. Let me just say that Twice Tempted was amazing and I loved every minute of the book. I couldn't put the book down.

In Twice Tempted, we meet Zoe Ambrose a small town girl, who happens to be an author on her way to a book signing in VEGAS. Yep, that's right we are heading to Sin City. Once there she runs into the hottest actor alive Ian Romanov, literally she runs into him. Ian is smiting by her, so much so that he even gives her permission to use his real name, Christian. Christian realizes that this is the girl to help him clean up his image in Hollywood and Zoe wants nothing to do with it. However, Christian uses his charm to break down Zoe's armor. After her adventure in Vegas, Zoe heads back home to Holland Springs to lick her wounds and try to get her life back to the way it was. Christian decides to man up and try to fix things with Zoe. Is Christian able to do so? Hmm, I guess you just have to read Twice Tempted to find out.

Oh my gosh, I loved this story. I adore that Zoe is a walking disaster, not your typical female lead, which makes this book a lot of fun to read. You have Christian and his family, if you want to call them that. Plus, a lot trouble that happens in VEGAS.

FUN, FUN, FUN that you should check out. Which you are in luck, this week I'm gifting one lucky reader a chance to get Marquita Valentine's new book (in ebook format) Twice Tempted. All you have to do is answer the question and leave your email address. Next Wednesday, I will draw one lucky reader and gift them a e-copy of Twice Tempted.

So, here is the question: Have you gone to Vegas and done something crazy? If you haven't, would you do anything crazy?

Good luck.

The Bargain Bride by Barbara Metzger

Good morning everyone. I was trying to decide what book I wanted to write about today. Since I have so many books that I have read and want you all to know about them. Todays pick is The Bargain Bride. I read this about three times when I was starting my collection of romance novels  again. Let  me share the history.

When I started to reading romance novels again, I always got embarrass at some of the covers.  I got over that fast, since some of the covers are accompanied by some pretty good stories. Well, The Bargain Bride has a modest cover, so of course I bought it.

I love how the story starts out with a marriage agreement made when Persephone Goldwaite was 13 years old. Thirteen years later she still hasn't married Kendall Westmoreland, Viscount Westfield and she's fed up and has decided not to marry him. Come on 13 years is a long time to wait for a guy even if he has a titled. However, her father says no and they have to marry each; after all its in writing. Gotta love a forced marriage. Well, Persephone has a lot of insecurities due to the fact that she has been place firmly on the self for so long; when West finally marries her, she figures he couldn't get out of the marriage contract. However, he slowly falls in love with her.

Ok, if that was all to the story it would be pretty boring, but its not. In the story you have scummy step-brother who just wants Persephone's money, a wastrel brother-in-law, a conniving step-mother and bitter ex-mistress. You gotta love a bitter ex-mistress. I liked the story after all I read it three times. However, this my opinion of the book. So, if you want to check out The Bargain Bride it's a pretty good book.

The Medium by C.J. Archer

Most of y'all were probably at a BBQ, cookout, or whatever you do on the Fourth of July. Not me. I actually was a homebody yesterday and decided to read a book. Ok, I didn't  stay indoors the whole day I actually went to a couple of stores, but that's beside the point. So, by spending most of my day indoors I got to read a fun book that made me think of the Ghost Whisperer. Which by the way was my favorite show, but it was after it came to its conclusion 2010; you gotta love re-runs. While most of you were preparing your celebrations I was reading The Medium, which is the C.J. Archer's new book which is set in Victorian England.

 Emily Chambers is a girl in the 1880 who has a special talented, which is she can speak to ghost. After all, that would freak some people; what am I talking about the ability to speak to ghost would freak a lot of people out. Even though her talent freaks a lot people out, she is still called to help love ones and there ghost to move on. During one of there séance, her sister accidentally unleashes an evil demon to heart of London. By doing this, Emily ends up with a little help from the other side by the name Jacob Beaufort. While they are demon hunting Emily starts to fall in love with Jacob. Loving a ghost makes things kinda of complicated.

Since this is the start of a new series, I really like it. I hope that we get to see more of Jacob Beaufort in the series, because he's an interesting ghost with an interesting back story that still needs to be uncover. I love how outspoken Emily is, but when you talk to ghost I guess you need to be an outspoken kinda gal. I look forward to reading more adventures of Emily Chambers.

Too Tempting to Resist by Cara Elliott

Early this morning I got a chance to finish Too Tempting to Resist by Cara Elliot. Honestly I could put it down, it was an amazing read. Here's why:

You have an amazing, strong-willed heroine, Lady Eliza Brentford, who is trying to keep her brother's estate afloat. However, the dissolute brother has no clue whats going on and only cares what his cronies think of him. He invites the Marquess of Hadden, Gryffin Dwight, to the Abbey. Hadden could careless of what Leete does or say. On the other hand there are two reasons to go to the Abbey: first to have a chance to look at the landscaping and second to have another chance to see Leete's sister. After all Hadden understands plants and there secret meanings, but he wouldn't want that to get back to the Ton which would destroy his image of a notorious rake.

Absolutely amazing story! Who doesn't love a notorious rake with a secret love of plants and there meaning? Just to let you know that this is book two in Lords of Midnight series, but I was able to read this without having to read the first book. Since I have read this book I'm going to go back and read the first book, because the story line was incredible and worth the read. I mean it was emotionally moving and you just fall in love with the hero and heroine. I really suggest you guys to go and get this book, because I think you will fall in love with the story too.

Possession: A Little Harmless Military Romance by Melissa Schroeder

This past weekend I wanted to read something short and quick read with a little steam too. I have definitely found that this weekend with Melissa Schroeder's Possession: A Harmless Military Romance.

In the story you have a Navy Seal, Deacon Berg who is attending a buddies wedding when he see's his ex-wife Samantha. There issue was never about sex, actually that was the best thing going for them. The problem lied with Sam's insecurities which were cause by her parents. One thing leads to another and they end up in bed together. Deke realizes that his biggest mistake was leaving her and so he vows to fix it.

I can't really go into too much detail after all it is a quick read and I might give too much away. I loved it. The story was amazing and it was a lot of fun. So, if you are looking for something quick with a lot steam, I would say look no further.

A Gentleman Undone by Cecilia Grant

Alright everyone, I got the opportunity to read A Gentleman Undone by Cecilia Grant which was provided by Goodreads. I was really surprise that I was selected to read this book. I mean what were the odds.

If you are looking for a happy, cheery romance novel I wouldn't suggest this book. The story line is a dark one, however, well written. You have Will Blackshear basically coming home from the war on the continent with some heavy, dark secrets that he would like to carry with him to the grave. One night he notices a woman, Lydia Slaughter, who happens to fleece him out of 180 pounds. Lydia is one smart cookie who knows how to play the game of life. She especially knows how to play a good game of cards. She sees an opportunity and takes a chance on Will. So, there adventure together begins. 

For most of the book, I had a really hard time with it. Let me be honest,  I don't have a problem hanging out in a gaming hells; my issue was with Will being so noble and trying to be so good. When you have a character who is trying to keep his past from anyone else it gets a bit trying. 

With all that said, I probably still would have bought the book, because of the plot; it intrigued me. Would I have finished the book, eventually. I would had to read a couple books in-between to get me through this one. Is it well written, absolutely. So, if you are looking for a darker romance novel, look no further.  

Beyond Seduction: A Bastion Club Novel by Stephanie Laurens

As you all know I occasionally will listen to a book on tape, which Beyond Seduction was my book of choice this go around. Ok, I got this book sometime in the middle of May and I'm just finishing it. Heres the reason why: my daughter is out of school and I just can't tune her out on a walk. I don't think she would appreciate walking for at least 30-40 minutes while I listen to a chapter. I would never finish the book, because she would whine and complain. No fun. So, I have been squeezing in times to listen to this book. Really, squeezing in. Almost a month later, I finish the book. It wasn't I didn't like it. I actually loved it. Just trying to find the right time to listen to it with out the interruption of children, which is a little difficult.

Remember in a previous post that I have this habit of jumping in a series, well it has happen again.  However, this time it was book six. Almost to the end of the series. However, through out the book it could have stand alone, but it wasn't until the end of the book where it might be important to read the other books before this one. Majority of the book focused on the budding relationship between Madeline Gascoigne and Gervase Tregarth, the Earl of Crowhurst. Let me say the this relationship was entertaining, because Gervase didn't believe he could find a local girl that would fit his criteria. However, to his surprise Madeline actually fits his criteria. I'm guessing that the villain makes an appearance in previous book, because he gets away in the end. Sorry if I ruined that for you. It was the one way to keep you reading this series.

When I have finished the pile of books that I currently have, I plan to go back and actually read this series. I really liked the one book that I listened to and it has enticed me to read the rest. Another thing I found interesting, with this audio version was a guy reading it. I don't know, but it was awesome to hear a male voice reading a romance novel, it just kinda melts your heart hearing it. Overall, loved it and I can't wait to get my hands on the rest of the stories and finish the series, one day.

Secrets of a Scandalous Bride by Sophia Nash

There are two things I do the most. The first is I look for a good deal. I love when books are on sale. It makes me want to do a happy dance. I also love that when I find a good deal and its a great read. The second thing I do is find a book that is in a middle of a series. I don't do this on purpose; it just happens. Trust me I'm notoriously picking a book in the middle of series I don't know why or how. However, I find out  when I get close to the end of a book. Then I notice it's book three or four in a series. Oops! So, I enjoy it when I can read it and not worry I didn't read the first couple of books. However, there are some books you can't do that. However, Secrets of a Scandalous Bride can be a stand alone book. For those that are wondering what book it is; it's book four in the Widow's Club. With that said heres what it's about.

Miss Elizabeth Ashburton is masking around as a widow trying to avoid General Leland Pymm. Let's say even though he is a revered war hero, he is a bastard of the first order. Everyone loves him and he is about to become a duke. At a friend's wedding she notices General Pymm and Elizabeth makes her great escape. However, you know the old saying out of the pan into the fire, well, it applies here. She ends up in the coach of a notorious Mr. Rowland Manning. He's the bastard son of the former Earl of Wallace and half brother to the current Earl. So, there is a price Elizabeth must pay in order for Mr. Manning to keep her safe. I don't know how safe that could be, after all how can you trust a scoundrel?

Ok, let me say I loved this book. It was amazing and I couldn't put it down. The book was highly entertaining and with some twist I would never would have seen coming. It was worth the time I took to read it. I would even recommend you guys to read Secrets of a Scandalous Bride. 

More Than a Stranger by Erin Knightley

Last week I headed to my local Barnes & Noble to pick up Erin's debut novel, More Than a Stranger. So, I scour up and down the romance isle in search of her book. To no avail I couldn't find it. What! How can this be, it was suppose to be out that Tuesday. Determine to make my purchase that day, I sought the help of an employee and asked if they had a received Erin Knightley's book. I informed the employee it was to be release that day, so we mosey on over to the computer. The book in question showed up in the system, so the very nice employee checked the back to see if was ready to be shelved. To my relief, it was. YAY!  Before I could meander over to the check counter, I asked the employee who helped me get the book if she could take my picture with the book. As you can see, she was sweet enough to do that for me. She probably thought I was crazy and that's fine with me. As you can see there's a cheesy picture of me with Erin's book. Now you know the crazy story, here is what I thought of the book.

We have the first book to a new novel to a brand new series. It's always interesting to see how the characters will develop in the story. We have Lady Evelyn Moore (aka Evie) who starts writing to her brothers friend when he went of to Eton. She was so sick and tire of hearing how great his new best friend, Benedict Hastings, was. Evie decided to take matters into her own hands and decides to write him a letter to state that he was not Richard's best friend, but she was. So this starts a friendship between Hastings and Evie. They wrote to each other and then all of the sudden the letters start, which causes Evie's broken heart. We jump ahead and we meet an older Evie and Hastings. So, we see the inner struggle that Hastings is dealing with trying to keep all his secrets from his friends and family. At the same time, trying to keep up the facade that his name is James Benedict, while trying to keep his feelings for Evie at bay.

Overall, it was a sweet story of two friends who come to realize that love can start at a tender young age. And with that said, love at that age can be a tad bit fragile.  I liked the book and I look forward to reading more books from this up and coming author.

Congratulation Erin for your new book. 

Impetuous Innocent by Stephanie Laurens

First of all, I haven't really had too many experience with reading Stephanie Laurens. This was the first book I read of hers. Well, I have a friend who has read a number of her books and has said that she was a fantastic writer. Let me say this, it is well written book. However, if you are looking for hot and steamy, this is not the story for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a sweet and warm romance, look no further.

Georgiana Hartley leaves her home in Italy after her father's death to live with her Uncle. Once she reaches England, she comes to find out that her Uncle has passed away and now in the care of her  lecher of a cousin. So, she decides to escape his grasp early in the morning to seek the help of Dominic Ridgeley, Viscount Alton. Well, he's not much better, because he is a know rake. Dominic is in no hurry to find himself leg-shackle at anytime soon, so he sends her off to live with his sister. During the course of the season Dominic has to save her from her naïve self and in the process starts to fall for her.

Ok, the first time I read through this book, I didn't care for it. However, I did get a chance to re-read this book and to my surprise I really enjoyed. The story wasn't that bad. After all, it was really sweet. So, let me re-iterate if you are looking for a hot steamy romance, this is not it. On the other hand, if you are looking for a sweet romance check this story out.

Lady Amelia's Mess and a Half by Samantha Grace

Last night I finished Lady Amelia's Mess and a Half. Let me tell you, I have been waiting for this book to come out. First of I loved her first book and was excited that I got my hands on her second book. Now, I'm anxiously waiting for the next book, and I'm sure its going to be great.

Definitely, different from the first book. Where Drew is a scoundrel of the first class, Jake Hillary is the complete opposite. Jake tends to put family first and looks out for everyone he cares for. His over-protective nature tends to get him into trouble at times. Lady Amelia Audley is still upset from Jake's treatment the year before. However, his brother sees Amelia and wouldn't mind jumping in her bed. However, Jake would rather see Amelia with him than his debauched brother. So, the brothers have a "friendly competition" to see who can get close to Amelia. Fortunately, Amelia would rather be with Jake, because she still carries a torch for him. Jake and Amelia finally come to an understanding and beginnings to clear the air of the past.

Ok, if that was the end of the story it wouldn't be a very good story. However, it's not. Samantha Grace tends to throw a twist here and there in her stories, so I was trying to guess what it was. Well, my guess was completely wrong. Oh my goodness, the twist she had in there was amazing, and let me say I would never have guess the twist she picked. So, go check out Lady Amelia's Mess and a Half its definitely a fun read.

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.

Because of You by Jessica Scott

Last night I finished Because of You due the fact I couldn't sleep. A lot of it has to do with, we were in a tornado watch. Let me just say I don't do well with that. I'm surprise how well I handle the north west part of Louisiana when we lived there. However, I need to write about what I thought about the book.

In the story we meet we meet  Sergeant First Class Shane Garrison, he's about ready to head back to Iraq and he wants to go. He pretty much has nothing left in the states until he meets Jen St. James the night before he leaves for his assignment. Instant sparks between them. While he's over there, a mission goes completely wrong and he comes back to the states not the same person. Shane and Jen have issues from there past that they need to overcome before they can move forward.

I really liked this book. I personally, think that it gave a perfect description what happens on both ends of war. You have Shane over in the sand box fighting for what he believes will make a difference. Then you have Jen who is stateside trying to help friends in need, because they need that extra support. At times we are at a lost of what a family might be going through while a love one is away. Truly a fantastic read and glimpse in military life. 

On a personal note, no matter what branch of the military these families might be serving in, they each have there own trials. However, the trials might vary from branch to branch. It truly takes a special person to live with the demands that may come with the service of ones country. I'm thankful for all the men and women who serve this country. Even my husband; even thou I don't tell him often. But I think he gets the picture, because I'm willing to support him.

The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen

Ok, I bought this book when it was good deal not knowing it was an inspirational romance. I loved premiss of the book, so I got it. I mean a girl accidentally kills her father, because he was abusing her mother. So, she was just trying to save her mother. In the process of running away, she over hears something that she shouldn't have and tries to run away from that situation. Well, she ends up getting strangle to the point that she loses her voice and so she becomes the silent governess.

Overall it was a good book, however, it was lacking the steam that I like to have in my romance book. Don't get me wrong it was written well. However, it wasn't what I wanted at the time. Would I re-read this book, no. I know that it would be perfect some people, just not me. If you are looking for an inspirational book, this is a good book to read.

The Rogue Pirate's Bride by Shana Galen

I have to say I'm starting to really like pirate stories and here's why: I get to use words like swashbuckling. Now, who doesn't love the word swashbuckling? I mean come on that word is a lot of fun to say.

In the story we have two strong will people. First off we have Miss Raeven Russell, a daughter of British admiral who seeks vengeance for her dead fiancé. Sébastien Harcourt, marquis de Valère (aka Captain Cutlass throughout the book), is trying seek out vengeance for a friend who took him in when he was just a lad and was killed by pirate another. Both seeking vengeance for someone they cared about.

You have to love Raeven, I mean at the beginning of the book she issues a challenge to Captain Cutlass, because he's the one to kill her fiancé. However, there is one problem with accomplishing this task. Now you are wondering what could be the problem, I mean all she has to do is killed the bastard. It's kinda hard to kill someone who you're attracted to. Which happens to be a serious complication, but a fantastic read for you and I.

I love this story. It was a swashbuckling good time. Even though I get use my favorite word for pirate story it was a fantastic read. I honestly couldn't put it down. However, I do require some sleep in order to function throughout the day. If I didn't, I would have definitely forgone sleep to finish The Rogue Pirate's Bride. It is definitely worth getting and reading.

Three Weddings and a Murder

When I read on Twitter that Tessa Dare, Leigh LaValle, Courtney Milan, and Carey Baldwin were writing an anthology to raise money for the Avon Walk, I was excited. If you don't know the Avon Walk fundraises for breast cancer research. They actually plan to participate at the one in Santa Barbara, CA, which is near my hometown and I think that is so awesome. So, I hope that they do well with there fundraising efforts.

With that said I should tell you what I thought about the book. I loved it. I loved the stories and how they all focus on second chances and a new release on life. You start off with Tessa Dare, The Scandalous, Dissolute, No-Good Mr. Wright, which is a fun story with the old saying that appearances are not always what they seem to be. Next you read Leigh LaValle, The Misbehaving Marquess, which is really about second chances and new beginnings. Afterwards you have Courtney Milan, The Lady Always Wins, which is all about seeing the big picture. And you have Carey Baldwin, Solomon's Wisdom, let me just say I didn't know what to expect and was shocked.

I hope that you all get a chance to get this ebook, because it is going towards a good cause. All the profits will be going to the research and treatment for breast cancer.

Grasping at Eternity by Karen Amanda Hooper

Another adventure out of the Regency period. Gasp, I know. Yep, this time my adventure is off to a new young adult book. Today's review is on Grasping at Eternity. I was amazed on how much I liked the story. I would call this book the essences of true love.

We have two main characters that have been together for many lifetimes. However, Maryah has no recollection of her previous lives with Nathaniel and the other kindrily. Nathaniel is coping with a broken heart and wondering why Maryah has erased her memories of their life together.

A sweet story of soulmates and everlasting love. As I said at the beginning I liked the story, I would even say love the story. Since this is the first book in the Kindrily series, I'm so excited to see more books to come out. However, I need to learn patience, because I have to wait. I hope that you will go check out this book, because it was such a wonderful read.

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.

Renegade Passion by Lisa Renee Jones

If you don't know by now I do occasionally jump out of my comfort zone in reading you should. Yes, I know I mainly read Regency or Victorian romance novels. However, not this time. I got a chance to take a look at Renegade Passion. I don't know how to really describe where it would fit into the world of romance, because it can fit into a couple of the sub-categories.

You have Kelvin Smith (Kel for short) who just got back from an assignment and is about to start a new assignment, which is a special unit at Area 51. Little does he know what it all entails. However, we jump ahead three years later to find out the girl he left behind is in trouble. Sonia Carmichael is a girl with a special gift, whose life is in jeopardy cause of it. Kel is a GTECH which are super soldiers that have had there DNA alter and they are trying to put a stop to this happen to other people. 

Honestly, I really like this novella. Novella's are great if you are unsure if you want to get into the series, particularly something like this. After reading Kel's and Sonia's story I really want to go back and read the others story. I mean who doesn't like a super soldier who is trying to save a world from a crazy mad man. I do plan to read the other books. It doesn't hurt to give this try since it's a quick short read that you might actually like.

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.

Scandalous by Karen Robards

Ok, I have been kinda behind in my reading of late. I have too many books to read. However, that is not your problem is it, but mine. In the mean while I have been listen to some books on my phone while I walk. To be honest I probably wouldn't have picked some of them to read if I had my way, but they make for a good listen. My latest listen has been Karen Robards Scandalous.

Let me start that I probably wouldn't have picked this one and download to my kindle. However, listening to it, what the heck. Basically you have Lady Gabriella Banning finding out that her brother the Earl of Wickham is dead. No one but her servant and herself know that he is dead. So, she decides to take matters in her own hand and take her sisters and herself to London for a season.  In London the plan was to pretend her brother was still alive until her sister Claire could get married off. Once they arrived in London, they find Marcus alive or so they think he is. Well, all her plans come crashing down when she has to trust a scoundrel who is not her brother.

It is completely scandalous to have feelings to have romantic feelings for a man pretending to be your brother. Pretty much wrong on so many levels, but what can you do about it? Let say things get pretty heated over the course of the Season.

Would I have read it? I don't know. The first couple of chapters were a little rough to get through, but it did pick up. I might have put the book aside and start another one while I tried to get motivated to finish the book (I have been known to do that. In fact I have I do have a couple of them on my kindle awaiting me to finish them). Once it did picked up it was pretty good. Well, its up to you if you want to read or listen to it, the choice is up to you.

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.

The Governess Affair by Courtney Milan

Sorry to belabor the point of my move, but I do have a lot of boxes that are just not going to unpack themselves. So, I decided to read a novella. I really like reading novellas, because there quick. Yesterday I started reading The Governess Affair. Oh my goodness I loved it.

We start off with the Duke of Clermont complaining to Hugo Marshall who he has wager to get him out of his pickles. Let me just say the Duke is such a bastard, I would like to take him down a peg. However, the story's really not about him, but a former-governess that won't leave him alone. He sends out Hugo to take care of the problem. Miss Serena Barton will not be ignore (I think of Fatal Attraction with a line like that). She wants to compensated for the injustice that was cause to her. Hugo and Serena draw the battle lines and go head to head. Hugo starts to develop a conscience while getting to know her. Somehow, Hugo priorities change over the course of the story.

So, we have a quick overview of the story. Why I loved it? I found the story to put things into perspective on things that happen too offend during that time and how quickly they were hushed up. I love how strong Serena was and how she was able to overcome her obstacles. I mean if I was her in her shoes I would have curl up into a ball and wish to die. I don't think I would have had the strength to overcome what happen to her. In essence a fantastic quick read. So, check out The Governess Affair, if you are in need of a quick read.

The Black Duke's Prize by Suzanne Enoch

Sunday, the eve before we got our stuff and the same day I started reading The Black Duke's Prize. I couldn't put it down, but I had to get some sleep the movers were coming the next day to deliver our stuff. Torn between sleep and a book. Well, sleep won. We were super busy that I wasn't able to get back to the book until late at night. Last night I was able to finish the book.

Here's what its about: We have Miss Katherine Ralston who goes to live with her Godparents while her uncle destroys her home. Then we have Nicholas Varon, the Duke of Sommesby the most eligible bachelor in the land. Nicholas decides to become friends with Katherine. I know friends, how does that work when your a rake and an innocent? She basically calls it as she sees it and doesn't take his guff.

Don't get me wrong they have there ups and downs. To my surprise I really like the book. I found it really sweet and fun. Who knew that a cad can be a good friend?