Scot Under the Covers - Suzanne Enoch (St. Martin's - Jan 2020)

Series: Wild Wicked Highlanders (Book 2)

Miranda Harris is known for her charm, wit, and ability to solve any problem she encounters. But when her brother lands neck-deep in gambling debt to a crafty villain and Miranda is subsequently blackmailed into marrying him, she must enlist the help of the devil himself to save the family honor―and herself.

Devilishly handsome Highlander Aden MacTaggert knows next to nothing about the ways of the ton, but he most certainly knows his way around gaming halls and women's hearts. Still, Aden is not sure how he'll manage to find a Sassenach bride in time to save his family's inheritance. When his almost sister-in-law Miranda comes to him for assistance, he proposes a partnership: She will help him navigate London society and he'll teach her everything about wagering…and winning back her freedom. The beautiful, clever lass intrigues Aden―but is she playing her own game, or are the sparks between them real? He is accustomed to risking his pocket. But betting on Miranda's love is a game he can't afford to lose. . .

Fantastic book. The three MacTaggert men were summoned to London after their younger sister became engaged. Seventeen years earlier, their mother left Scotland to return to "civilized" London, taking Eloise with her. They heard nothing from their mother, Francesca, until being told of the agreement between her and their father. Each of them was to marry an English woman before Eloise marries, or lose the money Francesca provides to keep the Scottish lands afloat. They weren't happy about it and made no secret of the fact. The first book, It's Getting Scot in Here, told the story of the youngest brother, Niall, and how he fell for the woman his mother picked for his oldest brother.

I loved the opening chapter of this book. A wager between middle brother, Aden, and oldest brother, Coll, gives a quick peek at who Aden is. He is known as the charming one, with a penchant for gambling. The boot toss bet was an amusing one, as was the bantering between the two brothers. There was also a glimpse of another side of Aden when a grimy dog stole one of his boots. It gets even better when the dog follows Aden home.

Then comes the introduction of Miranda and Aden. Miranda's brother, Matthew, is engaged to Eloise. She is charming, intelligent, well-liked - and outspoken. She is aware of Eloise's desire to make a match between Miranda and Aden and has listened attentively to Eloise's stories about her brothers. While noticing his good looks and charm, she is also aware of his reputation. Aden also notices her, especially that she is not empty-headed, and considers getting to know her better. That is, until she bluntly states, "I detest gambling. And gamblers." Aden is highly intelligent and also very private. Even within his family, he is known as the elusive one, who doesn't share his thoughts, feelings, or plans with anyone. Gambling is a form of entertainment for him, a chance to exercise his brain. While intrigued by the only woman who has spoken back to him, he's not interested in making an effort to overcome her objections. However, fate isn't done with them.

Miranda's brother Matthew is a friendly but somewhat naïve young man. He became the target of an unscrupulous man who lured him into wagering far more than he can afford. Now Matthew is in debt to Captain Vale for fifty thousand pounds, which is far more than even his family can pay. Unfortunately, Vale has a different plan for repayment. He wants Miranda's hand in marriage and will accept nothing less. Miranda is horrified when she finds out what Matthew did, and furious at what he expects her to do. She is not ready to hand herself over to Vale and seeks help from the only person she can think of - Aden.

I loved the conversation between Miranda and Aden. She is desperate for help but reluctant to show it. Aden is still a little peeved at her dislike of him, especially considering his reaction to her. I loved how they settled whether or not he would help her. I was happy to see Miranda trust him enough to tell him the whole story. Aden's reaction was what I expected. Regardless of his feelings for her, he is incensed at the idea of her being forced to marry someone.

I loved the teamwork between Aden and Miranda as they worked to thwart Vale's plans. Aden isn't accustomed to sharing his plans with anyone, but Miranda refuses to sit back and let him handle everything. I loved watching them find ways to spend time together to further their attempts. The time that they spend together gives them a chance to get to know each other. I loved Miranda's slow realization that Aden is much different than the reckless gambler she first thought he was. Miranda surprised herself when she discovered that she liked him and that she trusted him. Aden was all-in from the moment he agreed to help Miranda. It didn't take him long at all to admit to himself that he had found the lass he wanted. There was no way he was going to let Vale win. One of my favorite scenes was at the ball, where Aden made his pursuit of Miranda public. Her reaction: "The captain had set up a very complicated game of chess and had moved all the pieces precisely where he wanted them, and Aden had just sat down opposite Vale and dumped over the table."

I enjoyed seeing the admiration and trust between Aden and Miranda turn to love. It wasn't easy for either of them to admit. Aden's past made it difficult for him to rely on a woman. Miranda's mistrust of gamblers was hard to overcome. Both knew that there was no chance for them if they didn't stop Vale. As Vale's demands intensified, so did their determination. I loved seeing the changes in Aden as he broke with his usual solitary methods and asked for help from his brothers. I was glued to the pages as the showdown between Aden and Vale grew closer. The scene at the card game was fantastic, and I enjoyed the way that Aden poked at Vale. I loved Aden's deviation from his original plan, not just the reason but the advice that made it happen. That was just the beginning, and I was on the edge of my seat as the rest of the plan went through. The confrontation between Aden and Vale was great, though I thought Vale got off easier than he should have. I especially liked Miranda's idea of what to do with the other information they acquired.

I loved how Aden and Miranda came together at the end. Aden's honorable nature has held him back from a full declaration of his intentions. He doesn't want Miranda to feel obligated by gratitude. Miranda is frustrated by his reticence, but also slightly afraid that he will walk away. I laughed out loud at how she turned the tables on him.

Secondary characters: Vale was a villain who was easy to hate. It was bad enough to see the way he targeted and used Matthew. Vale's arrogance and confidence in the way he spoke to Miranda were chilling. The more that Aden uncovered about Vale, the more horrifying he was. Aden's mother, Francesca, has continued to grow on me since the beginning of the first book. Her love for her sons is evident, but her manipulations to get them to London come between them. Her interactions with Aden show that there is still a long way to go, but that there is hope. I also get the feeling that there may be more to the story behind her split with her husband. I love the relationship between the brothers, Coll, Aden, and Niall. They may tease and argue, but they are there for each other when needed. By the end of the book, Coll is the only one unattached. Thanks to his early interactions with Society, he is at a disadvantage in his bride search. I enjoyed Aden's advice to him and look forward to reading his story. Then there is Matthew. In the first book, he is seen mostly as the pleasant young man who is engaged to Eloise. He handles his meeting with her brothers well. He doesn't show as well in this book. To have gambled that recklessly is terrible enough, but to sell his sister to settle his debt is deplorable. I was honestly surprised that he was undamaged by the end of the book, especially after the MacTaggert brothers learned about what he did.

 

Heartbreaker - B.J. Daniels (HQN - Mar 2020)

Series: Montana Justice (Book 2)

He'll risk everything to rescue her…

Ex-military man Thom Grayson has debts to pay. So when a plane crashes in the mountains near his cabin, he's hired to find the wreckage -- and the kidnapped woman believed to be the sole survivor. But when he locates Geneva, or “JJ” as she insists on being called, she's not at all what he expected.

JJ isn't sure she can trust the mysterious man who's come to her rescue. But she has secrets of her own -- secrets she'll do anything to keep. So she'll follow his instructions and keep her distance to get off this mountain alive without blowing her cover. As dangerous conditions force them together -- and the undeniable chemistry between them ignites -- he'll protect her at any cost. But when the morning light comes, will the truth tear them apart?

Very good book about mistaken identity, family, trust, and love. The story leans a little more on the side of suspense than romance, but there's enough of both to satisfy. It opens with a rush as a sleeping woman awakens to three men breaking into her bedroom, drugging her, and abducting her. She regains consciousness on a small plane just before it crashes and must find a way to escape her kidnappers.

Thorn is a former military man turned hermit as he tries to escape the memories of his past. He's awakened in the night by a call asking him to find the wreckage of a plane and rescue the woman believed to be on board. Thorn owes his life to the man asking, so he can't refuse.

 I was sucked into this book from the first pages, and it didn't let go until the end. The first meeting between JJ and Thorn is antagonistic, as she doesn't trust that he isn't working for the kidnappers. For Thorn, he isn't sure that JJ, who he believes is the missing Geneva, isn't working some kind of scam with the alleged kidnappers. Being greeted by a pistol-wielding woman doesn't make him any more inclined to trust her. I loved watching them face off in an intense battle of wills. However, I was in no doubt as to who would come out on top. Things got more complicated with JJ escaping from him once before catching up to her. I had to laugh when he made the same mistake, only to have her bolt again. Unfortunately for JJ, she was kidnapped once more, leaving Thorn determined to follow and rescue her.

JJ's circumstances become more precarious when these kidnappers quickly realize that she is not Geneva, leaving her afraid for her safety. A just-in-time rescue by Thorn sends them on the run, looking for a safe place to hide. I liked seeing JJ and Thorn accept that they will have to work together if they are going to find out what is really going on. JJ and Thorn are on opposite sides in their beliefs over whether Geneva is a victim or a participant in the kidnapping scheme. Working together brings about another complication - the growing attraction between them.

I liked seeing them learn to trust each other, both with the mystery that surrounds them and with the hurts of their pasts. That trust opens them up to stronger feelings. I ached for Thorn when JJ was taken again, and he realized just how deeply he had fallen for her. The final confrontation was intense, between Thorn's battle with the bad guy and his race against time to save JJ. The reunion of Geneva with her grandfather was well done and perfectly played. There was a slight hiccup in their relationship because neither of them knew how to deal with the speed and depth of their feelings. Both JJ and Thorn finally figured out what they wanted. I loved Thorn's big moment at the end. It was sweet and romantic. There was one unexpected twist left in the story that didn't play out until the very end. I had begun to suspect something else was involved but was surprised by the final revelation.

I also liked the secondary characters of Judge WT Landusky and Franklin Davenport. The judge made his first appearance in Restless Hearts, where we learned about his unorthodox way of helping teen boys who came through his courtroom. I loved the way he put them through his own "boot camp," giving them the tools to straighten out their lives. When those boys grew up, they didn't forget what they owed him and would come if he called. WT has a similar loyalty to his own friends, such as Franklin Davenport. So when Franklin learns of his granddaughter's kidnapping, WT is the one he calls, who in turn calls Thorn. I ached for Franklin. He is a very wealthy man who lost his daughter to drugs and alcohol. Determined to save his granddaughter from that life, he took her in to raise himself. Unfortunately, he spoiled Geneva rotten. In a desperate attempt to rein in her excesses, he cut off her credit cards and allowance. He was terrified for her when she was kidnapped. I loved the surprises he had for Thorn and JJ when everything was all over. I liked the parts of the book that showed the action from Franklin and WT's point of view. There was also a surprise for WT when Franklin's lawyer turned out to be an old girlfriend, and sparks reignited. Another background character was Franklin's financial officer, who was there to help with the ransom.

 

One Perfect Moment - A.C. Arthur (HKR #583 - Aug 2018)

Series: Taylors of Temptation (Book 3)

He thought he'd escaped his notorious history -- Now she could thrust him back in the spotlight

TV producer Ava Cannon is stunned to discover that the secret lover who briefly shared her bed is one of America's most famous sextuplets. But Dr. Gage Taylor now shuns the spotlight. As they rekindle their sizzling affair, will Ava have to choose between a game-changing career move and the man she loves?

Good book. Gage and Ava met when she hired him to be a consultant on a television show. The story opened as filming for the show finished. For the entire time the show was filming, Ava and Gage behaved with perfect professionalism, even though the attraction between them grew stronger by the day. On the last day, they gave in to the sparks, "just this once."

Three weeks later, Gage is back to his full-time gig as a doctor, and Ava is back in Los Angeles. Gage is ready to hear that he's been selected for a big promotion, thanks to his work in infertility and research. So he is stunned to find out that he was passed over for someone he feels is less qualified. I must say that I was impressed with Gage's ability to keep calm and to think on the fly. I loved his split-second decision to take a vacation and go back to Temptation to visit Gray and Morgan (One Mistletoe Wish). I could already see the wheels turning as he contemplated his future.

Ava is back in LA, where she is working up a proposal for another show. She also has to deal with an obnoxious mother whose vision for Ava's life doesn't match her own. After one of those conversations, Ava is more than ready to pitch her proposal to her bosses. She doesn't expect to be put off on that show with a demand that she prepare a script for a reality show called The Taylors of Temptation: Remember the Times. Ava is horrified but feels that she has no choice. She plans to go to Temptation, scope out the town, and get to know the family before she tells them why she is there.

At that point, the potential for disaster is crystal clear. Ava has no idea that Gage is there when she manages to get invited to Gray and Morgan's for dinner. The mutual shock was obvious, but so were the sparks. Ava has to think fast to keep from blowing her cover, especially since Gage appears to be somewhat suspicious of how she ended up in his hometown. One thing neither can deny is the strength of their chemistry, and their "just this once" becomes more.

Like his brothers before him, Gage has a love-hate relationship with the town, thanks to the memories from their years in front of the camera. Being around Ava, showing her around, and spending time with her, starts to heal some of those feelings. I enjoyed seeing them both get caught up in the small town activities, from wine festivals to pumpkin contests. The more time they spent with each other, the deeper their feelings grew. Neither wanted to admit it. Ava feels guiltier by the day about keeping her real reason for being there from Gage. Gage has too many bad memories of the failure of his parents' marriage to want to go there himself. There are a few funny scenes involving his denials and Gray's reactions to them, a "been there, done that, but believe what you want" attitude. I liked the changes that both Gage and Ava experienced, thanks to the time they spent together. I especially enjoyed seeing him get involved with Gray's work at the hospital. I also liked the support that Gage gave Ava during one of her bouts with her mother. His words gave her the ability to stand up to Eleanor's words and actions.

I knew the ax was going to fall sooner or later. I hurt for both Ava and Gage when it did. Gage was blindsided, and his feelings of betrayal were devastating. I wanted to shake him when he wouldn't let her explain. I ached for Ava because she had fallen hard for Gage. Her time spent with him had changed her and her plans, but she couldn't get him to listen. Both Ava and Gage had a lot to think about and decisions to make. I loved the ending and seeing what those decisions were. Gage's big moment at the end was sweet and heartfelt.

 

One Mistletoe Wish - A.C. Arthur (HKR #502 - Dec 2016)

Series: Taylors of Temptation (Book 1)

All she wants for Christmas…

Everything schoolteacher Morgan Hill loves is in her hometown of Temptation, Virginia -- her twins, her students and the charming community center where she's staging their holiday play. But now the building's new owner, Grayson Taylor, is putting sexy visions into Morgan's head, making the young widow long for a future even Santa couldn't deliver.

As the oldest of sextuplets, Gray grew up in the media spotlight. His family's fame once helped Temptation thrive, but drove his parents apart. Coming back is just a bittersweet necessity until he meets petite firecracker Morgan. Somehow she gets the handsome tech guru to forget about big business in favor of small-town delights…and steamy winter nights. It's a life he never knew he wanted, but can he put his past aside to turn a festive fling into the sweetest forever?

Good book. Gray is the oldest of the six siblings, the famous Taylor Sextuplets. As the oldest, he took his responsibilities seriously and figured he should be the one to handle settling his father's estate. He's not looking forward to being in Temptation again after all these years and plans to get in and get out as quickly as he can. He didn't count on meeting the fascinating Morgan Hill.

Morgan is a widow with five-year-old twins. After her husband's death, it was her ties to the community that kept her going. She's a good mother and a well-loved teacher. She still grieves for her husband and hasn't met anyone who has made her want to move on. That is until Grayson arrives in town.

I liked both Gray and Morgan. Gray is smart, charming, and good-looking. And like his siblings, he has a love-hate relationship with his past. Because of the multiple-birth, his family became the stars of a reality tv show from the time they were born until they were seven years old. It was great for the town and the family at first, but it eventually drove his parents apart. Though he doesn't want to admit it, he does still have some good memories of that time. Morgan is generally a sweet woman, but she has a feisty side that shows up on several occasions. She loves her town and its people and will fight for them if she thinks they are threatened.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Morgan and Gray. There are sparks between them from the start, though not all of them are from attraction. I liked their first meeting when Gray seems to expect her to jump to his bidding and show him around the community center and is surprised when she makes him wait. In the meantime, her kids, Lily and Jack, take to him right away. I was impressed that Gray related so well to them right away. As soon as Morgan found out who Gray was and why he was there, she was determined to open his eyes to the importance of the community center and hospital to the town. His interest in Morgan herself gives him a little extra motivation to hear her out, and Gray soon gets to see them through her eyes. Some of the things he learned made him take a closer look at his father's life and activities and gave Gray a new appreciation for him.

At the same time, Gray and Morgan spent a lot of time together, and the attraction between them grew stronger. Morgan is wary of the appeal because it makes her feel a bit disloyal to her late husband. She also knows that nothing can come of it because Gray's life and business are in Miami. Gray himself is flummoxed by how quickly he feels at home in Temptation, and his growing feelings for Morgan. There are some charming scenes with Gray, Morgan, and the kids, as well as some very steamy ones between Morgan and Gray. There are a few bumps in their road to happiness. Gray has an admin assistant, Kym, who wants to be more and is aggressive in her pursuit of him. I thought he was too easy on her from her first appearance, which led to more significant troubles at the end. Morgan has her own problems with her childhood friend, Harry. I loved seeing the changes in Gray as he fell deeper under Morgan's spell. I ached for him when Morgan's fears hold her back. I loved his big moment at the end as his patience brought him his heart's desire.

I did have a few minor quibbles with the story. The author described Gray as a runner who's run in the 5K marathon in 15 minutes. No, just no. A 5K is a race, and a marathon is 42K. There's a big difference. The average time for an experienced runner to run a 5K is about 26 minutes for a man. Fifteen minutes would be an Olympic class runner. The description of his running routine at home was also unbelievable. There was also a regular lack of protection used during their love scenes, with predictable results. Those issues aside, I still enjoyed the book. I've already read Garrek's book, One Unforgettable Kiss, so it's on to Gage's story.

My Kind of Cowboy - R.C. Ryan (Forever - Apr 2020)

Series: Wranglers of Wyoming (Book 1)

Brand Merrick is a take-charge cowboy who considers relax a four-letter word. So when an injury lands him six weeks of physical therapy, he intends to keep right on working-until his grandmother hires a therapist to stay at their family ranch. He's not used to following orders, or slowing down, but Avery Grant has a way of getting him to do things he'd never thought he'd do . . .

Avery hates to admit it, but this super sexy rancher is testing her patience...and her professionalism. She's a born-and-bred city girl, yet she finds herself drawn to the rugged wilderness and the equally rugged cowboy she's here to help. But when a threat from her past follows Avery to Montana, it's Brand who rides to the rescue-if only she'll put her trust in him, and the growing feelings in her heart.

Terrific start to the new series. It opens with an introduction to the Merrick family and a tragic event that affects them all. A house fire sweeps through the ranch house that Bo, his wife Leigh, and their three sons had just moved into. The oldest son, Brand, succeeded in getting his two little brothers out of the house, then woke his parents. Unfortunately, his mother didn't make it. Bo and his boys moved back into the family home with his father, mother, sister,  and grandfather, making four generations living together.

Fast forward twenty years. The Merrick boys, Brand, Casey, and Jonah, have all grown up. All three work the ranch with the family, though Casey and Jonah also have other professions. Brand recently was injured in a fall and still suffers the aftereffects. As stubborn as the other men in his family, he ended his physical therapy early, unconvinced of its effectiveness, and determined to return to work. His grandmother, Meg, takes matters into her own hands and hires a physical therapist to stay at the ranch for six weeks, overriding Brand's protests that he doesn't have time.

Avery is a city girl from Michigan who took the job in Wyoming with an agenda of her own. She looks forward to the different surroundings, but she also wants to escape from an uncomfortable situation at home. She has a stalker who has left several threats, but the local authorities don't take it seriously.

I loved the first meeting between the Merricks and Avery. Brand was blindsided that morning by his grandmother's announcement and isn't at all happy with the thought of someone interfering with his day. Family patriarch, Ham, is also against it, with the view that pain is something ranchers learn to live with. They are all shocked to discover that, rather than the muscular man they expected, the therapist is a slim, attractive woman. Avery is a bit taken aback by the hostility from her patient and his great-grandfather but is determined to change their minds and heal her patient.

I loved the development of the relationship between Brand and Avery. Brand thinks that it won't be hard to send this city girl running. All he has to do is drag her into ranch life and watch her flounder. Avery is tenacious and sees his challenge and raises the stakes. I loved watching her dig right in and embrace everything thrown at her. It doesn't take long for Brand to be impressed and decide to give her a chance. With the time they spend together, Avery sees past the grumpy Brand to the man who loves his family and his land. It was great to see Brand go from trying to chase Avery away to wishing he could find a way to make her stay.

The attraction that was there from the moment Brand and Avery met continued to build. They tried to resist at first. Brand knew she would leave after six weeks, and Avery wanted to keep things professional. However, the connection was too strong to resist. There were some sweet scenes as Brand showed Avery around the land that he loved. There were some funny times, such as their trip to town, where Avery gets a taste of small-town life. Then there were the times that showed the depth of the feelings that were growing between them. I loved seeing Brand share his memories of the night of the fire with Avery, something he hasn't even done with his family. When Avery shared her trouble with Brand, it roused his protectiveness, further cementing his feelings for her. With Avery's departure drawing closer, both ached to be together, but neither was ready to confess their feelings. The end was emotional as each longed for the other to say something that would keep them together before it was too late. Brand's big moment was great, and I loved how he was oblivious to the people around them.

Part of the book also dealt with the reason Avery left Michigan. She thought she left the threats behind her, only to begin receiving creepy and threatening texts after she arrived in Wyoming. Though Avery tried to ignore them, remembering her treatment by the authorities in Michigan, the threats started to weigh on her. I loved Brand's reaction when she told him, with that cowboy code of protectiveness kicking in. I especially liked his insistence on going to the local police chief. The difference in attitude was night and day, which gave Avery a little bit of peace of mind. An unexpected visitor brought along a twist to the situation. There were some very intense moments as Avery found herself in a life-or-death situation. I loved her determination to survive and her ability to think on her feet. The final confrontation was a nail-biter and kept me glued to pages until it was over.

A big part of the book was the Merrick family's relationships. The love and respect that they had for each other were evident, and I enjoyed getting to know each one. Hammond, the family patriarch, was quite a character. Gruff and obstinate, his opinions were pretty well set in stone. I loved his pride in his family and their land, and how his stories wove a spell around Avery. I also like watching her earn his respect and admiration. Another family member I loved was Aunt Liz. She's a talented photographer, and though she seems cold and aloof at first, that soon changes. There is a fantastic scene between Liz and Avery that changes both their lives. I was also intrigued by Chet, who obviously has a thing for Liz, though she doesn't see it. I hope to see more of them in future books. However, my favorite family members were Casey and Jonah. They are the typical younger brothers who know just what buttons to push when it comes to Brand. They caught on quickly to the attraction building between Brand and Avery and took multiple opportunities to tease and interfere. It was fun to watch the actions and reactions among them. I can't wait to read their stories.

Beachside Beginnings - Sheila Roberts (Mira - Apr 2020)

Series: Moonlight Harbor (Book 1)

Moira Wellman has always loved makeovers -- helping women find their most beautiful selves. Funny how it's taken her five years with her abusive boyfriend, Lang, to realize she needs a life makeover. When Moira finally gets the courage to leave Lang, the beachside town of Moonlight Harbor is the perfect place to start over.

Soon Moira is right at home, working at Waves Salon, making new friends and helping her clients find new confidence. When she meets a handsome police officer, she's more than willing to give him a free haircut. Maybe even her heart. But is she really ready for romance after Lang? And what if her new friend is in hot pursuit of that same cop? This is worse than a bad perm.

Terrific book. The main character is Moira, a stylist with a knack for finding just the right cut and color for her clients. Unfortunately, she doesn't have the same knack in her personal life. Though her boyfriend seemed perfect at first, the abuse has worsened over the five years they've been together. She could take it herself, but the last straw came when he kicked her cat. With the help of her boss, she found a haven in the tiny town of Moonlight Harbor. Michael sent Moira to his friend Pearl, the owner of Waves Salon. Pearl isn't too sure she needs another stylist, but she also realizes that if she doesn't bring in some younger customers, her salon will be toast. Moira is young, hip, and enthusiastic, and Pearl quickly realizes what a treasure Moira is.

I loved watching the people of this small town, especially the women, embrace Moira and help restore the confidence that her life with Lang had ripped from her. Enough of the ladies had experienced troubles of their own that they recognized what she was going through. It isn't a one-way street, as Moira also helps her new friends on their own journeys. I loved Pearl and Edie, the older ladies who became like grandmothers to Moira. Pearl experienced some heartbreaking losses in her life and has been merely going through the motions of living. Moira is like a breath of fresh air blowing through the salon, reinvigorating Pearl's joy in what she does. It was fun to see how the salon's makeover paralleled Pearl's. Edie is the owner of the local hotel, in her eighties, and with a heart as big as the ocean. I loved seeing her pull Moira into her family's life, treating her like another niece. I loved the cooking scenes that gave Moira a taste of the life she'd always wanted and another boost of self-confidence.

I also enjoyed seeing the other friendships that Moira built, reminding her of what she'd given up thanks to Lang. She used her talent with color and style to help other women make changes in their lives. I especially enjoyed seeing Annie's journey, which was somewhat like Moira's. Just like Moira, Annie is in a toxic relationship. Her husband's drinking is so out-of-control that she feels she has no choice but to take their daughter and leave him. I loved how her friends gave her the support she needed and the encouragement to follow her dreams. There are many wonderful scenes of the way that the women back each other up with support, advice, or just listening when someone needs to vent.

When Moira arrived in Moonlight Beach, she had every intention of staying away from any romantic entanglements. She doesn't trust her judgment any longer. But when local cop Victor King stops her for speeding, her heart speeds up too. Victor is terrific. He takes pride in his efforts to care for the people of his town. He is friendly and sweet and adorably tongue-tied around women. I loved watching the relationship between them develop. Victor makes no secret of his interest in Moira, but she is wary. She is interested in him, too, but it is difficult for her to trust her judgment. I liked how she explained her fears to Victor and that he cared enough to be patient while she worked through her fears. They ran into a snag when Moira discovered that her new friend Courtney is also interested in Victor. I ached for him when Moira seemed to pull away for no reason. I also wanted to shake Moira, but I understood her reasons. The resolution of that triangle was emotional and also showed the strength of true friendship. Things finally looked up for Victor and Moira, until her past made an unwelcome appearance. I loved seeing Moira's new strength and confidence as she confronted Lang and feared for her life at his reaction. I cheered at the unexpected help she received and loved the final resolution. Victor's big moment at the end was sweet and romantic.

This was the first Moonlight Harbor book that I have read, but it worked well as a stand-alone. That said, I want to go back and read the earlier books to learn the stories of the other residents of the town. I am especially interested in reading more about Jenna and her relationships with Brody and Seth. I'd also like to know more about Hyacinth and the story leading up to her interference in the preacher's wedding.

The Flapper's Fake Fiancé - Lauri Robinson (HH #1498 - Apr 2020)

Series: Sisters of the Roaring Twenties (Book 1)

An inconvenient attraction…

To her convenient fiancé!

Patsy Dryer may be a biddable heiress by day, but nothing will stop her from dancing all night in Hollywood's speakeasies -- or fulfilling her dream of becoming a reporter. She's investigating the mystery of an escaped convict with brooding, handsome newspaper editor Lane Cox…until they must pretend to be engaged! With their scoop linked to Lane's tragic past, dare Patsy hope for a happy ending for their own story, too?

Fun story set in the rarely used Roaring Twenties. Patsy and her two sisters, Betty and Jane, are the daughters of William Dryer, a wealthy builder. He is determined to find wealthy men to marry them. Tired of being sequestered in the name of "protection," the girls frequently sneak out at night to visit a local speakeasy, The Rooster's Nest. Patsy also has another motive. She dreams of becoming a reporter and will do anything to make that dream come true. Investigating the escape of a dangerous convict should give her the scoop she needs to get her foot in the door of the local paper. Marriage is not in her plan.

Lane Cox owns the LA Gazette. After his wife and daughter were killed during a train robbery, he made the newspaper his life. When the man responsible for the death of his family escapes from prison, Lane uses his skills as an investigative reporter to search for him.

I liked both Patsy and Lane. Patsy is the youngest of the three girls and seems to have the most ambitious goal for herself. Despite having every story she has submitted to the paper rejected, she refuses to give up. I loved her ability to transform herself from the obedient daughter her father demanded to the intrepid reporter masquerading as a vivacious flapper. She has an amazing eye and memory for detail and a talent for getting people to talk to her. Lane is a man who has made the newspaper his life. He has turned his paper into a respected source of news by refusing to print anything that can't be confirmed. He still grieves for his wife and daughter and doesn't see that ever changing.

I loved the first meeting between Patsy and Lane. She has just gotten a lead on the escaped convict when she recognizes Lane. Determined to find out what he knows, she shanghais him into participating in a dance contest with her. Lane is suspicious when she mentions Gaynor's name, thinking that she might be one of his relatives. It was fun watching them spar at the same time they danced. I especially enjoyed seeing the effect that Patsy had on him, stirring up emotions that had been locked away for seven years. He wasn't happy when she disappeared before he finished talking to her. Patsy was equally affected by Lane. Neither was able to stop thinking about the other all the next day. By the time they'd met for a second time, Lane was thoroughly entranced and intrigued, and impressed by the potential he sensed in her.

It didn't take too long for them to decide to cooperate in their investigations. Their investigative techniques complemented each other. The drawback was that Patsy still had to hide the truth of who she was, which limited the time they could spend together. Lane didn't understand the fear that he saw in her eyes when circumstances revealed her secret. I loved the protectiveness he felt toward her and his use of her father's insistence on an engagement when he found out about them. The tension increased as Lane and Patsy drew closer to finding the truth about the train robbery. I had to laugh a little bit at Lane, whose protective instincts were aroused because Patsy wasn't at all cooperative with his attempts to keep her safe.

At the same time, sparks of another sort continued to grow between them. Both Lane and Patsy fought their feelings, trying to hold on to their reluctance to marry. Patsy was the first to realize the strength of her feelings but hid them because she knew of Lane's refusal to consider marrying again. Lane was a harder nut to crack. I loved watching the changes in him as Patsy filled the empty spot left by his family's deaths. By the time he admitted his feelings to himself, he also knew he would have to convince Patsy that his feelings for her were real. He almost didn't get that chance when their investigation took a dangerous turn. I was on the edge of my seat when Patsy ended up in the hands of the bad guy, wondering how she was going to get out of it. The resolution was exciting and satisfying in how it went down. I loved Lane's big moment when it was all over, as he found the right words to convince Patsy of his love.

One of the things I enjoyed most about the book was the way it pulled me into life in the Roaring Twenties. The descriptions of the clothing, locations, and attitudes were so vivid that I felt as though I was there. That feeling was enhanced by the liberal use of the slang of the period. I also enjoyed the tie-in of the bootleggers to the author's Daughters of the Roaring Twenties series. Now I can't wait to read Betty and Jane's stories.

 

Promises Decide - Sara McCarty (Berkley - Sept 2018)

Series: Promises (Book 5)

She can run from the past, but not from their future...

As Jackson Montgomery heads home after collecting on a particularly difficult bounty, he's looking forward to a good meal, stiff drink, and maybe some female companionship. But when he sees signs of life in a house infamous for its second-rate construction, he can't resist taking a gander at who'd been fool enough to buy the disaster. He expects to find a tenderfoot for sure.

He's not far off.

Mimi Banfield thought she was done for when she fell into a well filled with rattlers, until a man shows up with the golden curls of an angel to rescue her. Jackson has all the survival skills she's missing and he's just the man to show her how to survive out West. As the newly minted guardian of three orphans, she could certainly use a hand. He seamlessly transitions into life with Mimi and the children, not knowing that she has a deadly secret. By the time she confesses, it may just be too late for salvation.

Good book that sucked me in from the first chapter and didn't let go until the end. We have a determined and sassy heroine, a gorgeous but deadly hero, and three feisty children brought together by fate.

Jackson is a part-time bounty hunter on the way home after a challenging pursuit and capture. He's looking forward to some rest and relaxation, as well as some time contemplating his future. He gets sidetracked by the signs of life at a property known for its lousy construction and is curious to see who was foolish enough to buy it. He expected to find a tenderfoot, but what he found exceeded even his expectations.

Mimi and her three orphans have been on the run for a year. She bought the property, hoping that they were far enough and remote enough not to be found. Unfortunately, one of her first actions ends up with her falling into a dry well with half a dozen rattlers in it. She figures that she's done for until a man with the face of an angel shows up to save her.

I loved the first meeting between Mimi and Jackson. His curiosity morphs into protectiveness as soon as he sees the problem. I loved his calm demeanor as he entered the well despite his feelings about snakes (a la Indiana Jones' "Snakes. It had to be snakes."). Mimi is relieved to see him, and though bowled over by his beauty, retains her natural sassiness. I loved the banter between the two as Jackson carries out his rescue. However, he doesn't make it through unscathed and is bitten by one of the rattlers on the way out of the well. Now it is Mimi's turn for a rescue, as she nurses him back to health in another scene that highlights how unprepared she is. Once he recovers, there's no way Jackson can leave the little family to manage on their own.

I loved watching the development of the relationship between Mimi and Jackson. She is wary and determined to muddle through on her own, though she can't deny the temptation to lean on Jackson. Jackson is attracted and intrigued. He senses that Mimi is on the run from something or someone and is determined to protect her. I liked seeing Jackson become a part of her life so quickly, from sparring with Mimi to taking the boys in hand and falling under Melinda Sue's spell. Jackson's first hint of the seriousness of Mimi's situation came during a scene with Tony, the oldest of the children. My heart broke for Tony and what he'd been through and cheered for Jackson and his reaction. I loved seeing Jackson and Mimi grow closer, and ached for Mimi and her fear of her past catching up with her.

The story intensified when that past did reappear most horrendously. Mimi's fear, not just for herself but also for the children, leaped off the page. I was on the edge of my seat as Jackson and his friends made good on their promise to protect them. The final confrontation was intense as the bad guys finally got what was coming to them. All that was left was for Jackson to convince Mimi that they belonged together. Despite some well-meaning interference from their friends, Jackson's big moment at the end was sweet and romantic and exactly what Mimi needed.

Though I haven't read the other books in the series yet, they will definitely go on my wishlist. All of Jackson's friends seem to have interesting backstories, and I'd like to know more. I also thoroughly enjoyed the women and the way they treated Mimi as one of their own. My favorite of the secondary characters were the three children. Each one had their own personality and way of looking at the world. I would love to see stories for them later on, especially Melinda Sue.

 

Heiress for Hire - Madeline Hunter (Zebra - May 2020)

Series: Duke's Heiress (Book 1)

Minerva Hepplewhite has learned the hard way how to take care of herself. When an intruder breaks into her home, she doesn’t swoon or simper. Instead she wallops the rogue over the head and ties him up—only to realize he is Chase Radnor, the man who nearly got her convicted of her late husband’s murder. Now he’s insisting that Minerva has inherited a fortune from his uncle, a wealthy Duke. Only one thing could surprise her more: her sudden attraction to this exasperating man . . .

Chase can’t decide whether Minerva is a wronged woman or a femme fatale. Either way, he’s intrigued. Since the scandal surrounding her husband’s death, she has set up a discreet detective business to rival Chase’s own. She may be the perfect person to help him uncover the truth about his uncle’s demise. But as proximity gives way to mutual seduction, Chase realizes he craves a much deeper alliance . . .

Good book with a nice blend of romance and mystery. It opens with a bang as Minerva catches Chase breaking into her house. No shrinking violet, Minerva promptly renders him unconscious long enough to tie him up before interrogating him. She is stunned and somewhat disbelieving to find out that she has inherited a great deal of money from a duke she has never met. Besides telling her about the inheritance, Chase also wants to find out if she had anything to do with his uncle's suspicious death.

I liked both Minerva and Chase. Minerva is strong, intelligent, and stubborn. She has a sharp wit and isn't afraid to use it. She also has secrets that led her to change her name and move to London to start a new life. That former life has left her wary of men and determined to live life on her terms. She is ready to open Miss Hepplewhite's Office of Discreet Inquiries. Chase is the nephew of a duke, but also a self-made man. He has a reputation as an excellent private investigator, at which point the Home Office asks him to quietly investigate his uncle's death.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Minerva and Chase. The sparks are there from the moment they met, though both fight hard against them. Minerva and Chase cross paths several times as each investigates the death of the duke. Eventually, they decide to work together, though neither is entirely forthcoming about everything they learn. There are times that Minerva's stubborn independence bothers Chase, but he also admires her persistence and intelligence. The more time they spend together, the closer they become, and the more their attraction heats up. There is a scene where Minerva is injured, and Chase's protectiveness is aroused. I enjoyed the back-and-forth between them as Minerva fought against his protectiveness. As their feelings for each other grow, Minerva must decide if she can trust Chase with her heart. I liked that there was no big blowup between them, just a steady growth and then admission of their feelings. I liked their big moment at the end, especially the honest look at the differences between them and how they would handle them.

The mystery of the story was good. Chase's uncle died under mysterious circumstances that he is charged with investigating. There is also the mystery of the three unknown women who received large bequests, cutting out the family members. The women must be found but also investigated. The duke's family members do not react well to their loss of what they think they deserve. Is it possible that one of them murdered the duke? The family dynamics were very interesting, and I look forward to seeing more of them in the next book. I liked seeing how Chase's methodical methods and Minerva's more unorthodox ones complemented each other as they pursue their investigation. The conclusion was unexpected but leaves the matter open for the rest of the series.

 

Call It Magic - Janet Chapman (Jove - May 2020)

Series: Spellbound Falls (Book 7)

Welcome back to Spellbound Falls, Maine—where love is the greatest magic of all...

Katy MacBain moved to Spellbound Falls with secrets she plans to keep. The newest member of the Fire and Rescue Team, she disappeared for three weeks before arriving on the job. She doesn’t understand why Gunnar Wolfe—the town’s interim fire chief and her boss—seems determined to uncover the truth of what happened to her during that time. Or why she’s more attracted to him than she’s ever been to any other man.

A confident firefighter, Gunnar Wolfe doesn’t give up—and he’s resolved to find out what’s wrong with the mysterious and beautiful Katy. Since she is the newest member of his team, he’s naturally protective of her, but he’s surprised to find himself captivated by the tenacious and talented woman who is so...magical.

I loved this book and am heartbroken that there will be no more magical books from Janet Chapman. She is one of my favorite authors, and I will miss her and her magical worlds dreadfully.

Katy MacBain is the youngest daughter of Libby and Michael MacBain (Wedding the Highlander). She recently left her job as a real estate agent to become a paramedic. She applied for a job with the Spellbound Falls Fire and Rescue Team but disappeared for three weeks between completing her course in Colorado and arriving in Spellbound Falls. Her best friend, Jane (From Kiss to Queen), worries about Katy, and sends a trusted friend to look for her. I ached for Katy and the problem that haunts her.

Gunnar Wolfe was sent to find Katy and was frustrated at his inability to do so. Joining the Fire and Rescue Team was his last-ditch effort, as he knew she was due in Spellbound Falls by a specific date. He was hired as a firefighter, then as the interim fire chief. Gunnar is intrigued by Katy before he meets her, thanks to the information given to him by Jane before he begins his search.

I loved the first meeting between Katy and Gunnar. There are sparks, but also a little bit of head-butting. Gunnar's fascination with Katy increases, as he also senses that there are things she is hiding. Gunnar tries to fight the attraction, as she works for him, but it is a losing battle. Katy, on the other hand, is all-in and ready to pursue him. I enjoyed watching the development of their relationship. First, there is friendship, as Gunnar helps Katy settle into her duties as a paramedic. I liked seeing them spend time together and get to know each other. Gunnar is more determined than ever to get to the bottom of the pain he senses in her. I had fun with Katy's belief that Gunnar is an Atlantean and his reactions to some of the things she says. I ached for them both when Katy's issues come between them. It took a long conversation with her mom to work through that which haunts her (and I loved how that conversation came about). I loved Gunnar's patience and sensitivity as he worked his way past her walls. I loved seeing the changes in Katy as she regained her belief in herself. I also enjoyed the changes in Gunnar, as his feelings for Katy transformed him from footloose to ready to settle down. I loved the ending, especially Gunnar's confession of why he was there. The epilogue was terrific. I loved the bit with Jane at the beginning of it (bless her matchmaking little heart) and seeing how other characters are doing.

Another secret that Katy has is the gift that led her to become a paramedic. It isn't something that she can tell other people about, so working as a first responder is the logical way to use it without revealing herself. Gunnar is an inadvertent witness to one instance that puzzles him. He's further confused when he is on the receiving end. I loved the scene at the end when she trusts him enough to ask for his help with Shiloh.

Something I really enjoyed were the scenes involving the fire and rescue crew. Katy has some obstacles to overcome before the other members accept her. I loved that she didn't let it get her down, but worked to overcome them. The prank scene with Katy and Welles was great. I especially enjoyed the way that she foiled their tormentors. The scene at the lake was fantastic. The others' reaction to Katy's handling of the hopped-up druggie was hilarious and won their respect. I also loved the campfire events that Katy started and seeing the effect they had on the skeptics.

I liked the scenes that involved characters from other books. I laughed at how some of Katy's male relatives did a preemptive visit to the firehouse to warn off the men. I enjoyed the scenes with her brother, Robbie, which showed their love for each other as well as some of the more frustrating sibling moments. Titus, Olivia, Duncan, and others make brief appearances.

All Fired Up - Lori Foster (HQN - Nov 2019)

Series: Road to Love (Book 3)

He's tantalizing trouble she can't resist…

Charlotte Parrish has always wanted a certain kind of man: someone responsible, settled, boring. Bad boys need not apply. But when her car leaves her stranded and a mysterious stranger with brooding eyes and a protective streak comes to her rescue, she can't deny how drawn she is to him. In town searching for family he's never met, Mitch is everything she never thought she wanted -- and suddenly everything she craves.

Finding his half-brothers after all these years is more than Mitch Crews has allowed himself to wish for. Finding love never even crossed his mind…until he meets Charlotte. She's sweet, warmhearted, sexier than she knows -- and too damn good for an ex-con like him. But when his past comes back to haunt him, putting Charlotte -- and the family he's come to care for -- in danger, Mitch isn't playing by the rules. He's already surrendered his heart, but now he'll risk his life.

Terrific book. This is the third in the series and can be read as a standalone, but you'll get more out of it if you read the others first. This is the story of Charlotte Parrish, the sort-of little sister to Brodie and Jack Crews, and Mitch Crews, the half-brother they didn't know about. Their father, Elliott, is a man who doesn't know the meaning of the words fidelity and commitment. The first two books, Driven to Distraction and SlowRide, explain their relationships to Elliott.

Mitch had a hard life growing up with a part-time father, an addict mother, and her drug dealer boyfriend. He's recently out of a five-year prison sentence received for a stupid decision he made in an effort to protect his mother. She has since passed away, and Mitch arrived in Red Oak, Ohio, looking to meet his half-brothers. He's not sure why it just feels like something he needs to do. He never expected to encounter someone like Charlotte.

Charlotte was taken in by Ros Crews when her parents passed away. Brodie and Jack have always treated her like a little sister, from teasing to protectiveness. Charlotte gives as good as she gets, keeping them in line as well as their office organized. She loves them, but when it comes to a man of her own, she wants someone less badass and more normal. Meeting Mitch brought out a side of her she didn't recognize.

I loved the opening pages of the book. It starts with Charlotte having car trouble in front of a bar and being accosted by a couple of drunks. Mitch was hanging around the outside of the bar and noticed Charlotte as she was making phone calls looking for help. Intrigued and attracted, it was fun to see him argue with himself about talking to her, but he didn't hesitate when it looked like she needed help. I loved the way they immediately connected. Charlotte wasn't the least bit afraid of him, even when he punched the drunk. Just as Mitch finished, Brodie and Jack arrived, having received her messages. Of course, they went into protective, big brother mode right away, with Charlotte doing her best to call them off. Mitch immediately realized who they were, and wasn't happy about having his timeline moved up before he was ready. It got even more complicated when Ros arrived. The various reactions to Mitch's revelations were fantastic. My favorites were Ros's immediate acceptance, and Mitch's complete bewilderment at it. I also loved how easily Charlotte could read Mitch's emotions. This scene was an excellent indicator of how Mitch's absorption into the family was going to go.

Mitch has only had himself to rely on for so long that he isn't sure how to handle having a family who wants to be involved in his life. I loved how none of them let him push them away. Even when he tried, they would just keep coming back. There were terrific scenes of everything from family dinners to work parties where he had to learn that family meant everything to them. It was a hard concept for him, and I ached for the way he wanted it to be true but was afraid to believe. Mitch also had the problem of not wanting his past to impact them, but that past was coming for him. I loved the support that he received and the difference that it made to him when he finally believed.

I loved the development of the relationship between Mitch and Charlotte. The connection and sparks were there from the moment they met. Mitch had some bad moments when he realized her relationship to Brodie and Jack, but it didn't slow him down for too long, though he did have to agree to their conditions at the beginning. His fascination and sheer delight in being with her were sweet. I loved how he appreciated her sass and ability and willingness to stand up for herself against Brodie and Jack. He was also very protective of her, especially when it came to himself. It took him a long time to believe that she would genuinely be interested in him. Charlotte was surprised by her reaction to Mitch but accepted it very quickly. I loved how she understood him and could read his emotions. It warmed my heart to see the way that she smoothed the way between him and his brothers, defended him when she thought he needed it, and stood up for him when she felt it was necessary. I loved how the attraction between them grew until they couldn't fight it any longer, and their feelings grew right along with it. The biggest obstacle was getting Mitch to believe that they could have a future together. I loved the ending, and seeing Mitch finally feel like he was home.

The suspense of the story was good. We discovered fairly early that Mitch's mom's boyfriend is absolutely no good. Upon finding out that she left her house to Mitch, who'd sold it to the state and walked away, he was furious. He was determined to get his revenge and tracked Mitch to Red Oak. It is immediately evident that he has no redeeming features and is extremely dangerous. Mitch was afraid for Charlotte and the others and determined to find the man before he could do any harm. There are some scenes from Newman's point of view that reveal how bad he is. The tension ramps up as Newman's plans draw closer to fruition, and Charlotte becomes a target. The final confrontation had me glued to the pages until it was all over. I especially loved how Newman underestimated Mitch and completely blew off Mitch's family connections. I loved seeing how they all came together to end the threat.

 

One Unforgettable Kiss - A.C. Arthur (HKR #568 - Apr 2018)

Series: Taylors of Temptation (Book 2)

A bid on passion

All navy pilot Garrek Taylor ever wanted was to fly far from his family's notorious past. But now, with his wings temporarily clipped, the famous sextuplet is back in his Virginia hometown to live down a scandal and unload his family's historical antebellum mansion. His plan is sidetracked when he becomes the winning bidder at an auction for a date with Temptation's most reluctant and gorgeous bachelorette.

The only child of a retired army colonel, Harper Presley is haunted by the secret that forced her return to the comfort of her Southern town. The unconventional house restorer is mortified to be paired off with an infamous Taylor -- until desire blindsides them. As a slow burn of passion heats to a combustible connection, Garrek confronts a mistake that could end his military career. Can Harper help them both rebuild their lives…and build an everlasting future?

Good small-town romance between two people who weren't looking for love but found it anyway. Navy pilot Garrek is on forced leave from his unit, with instructions to decide what to do about his future. He swore he would never return to his hometown, but the recent death of his father made it impossible to avoid. Garrek's first stop in town is the local bar where he inadvertently bid for and won a date with Harper Presley.

Harper owns a local construction company and is well-known as Temptation's tomboy. She didn't choose to be part of the auction and is frozen with embarrassment when the bidding begins. She's mortified when she discovers that the winning bidder is one of the Taylor sextuplets and just wants to pretend that it didn't happen.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Garrek and Harper. Neither one was looking for a relationship, but the sparks between them were impossible to deny. Though they fought the attraction, it didn't take long before it burned out of control. Harper is doing a renovation job for Garrek's brother, which puts her in Garrek's company way too often for her comfort. They grew closer as they got to know each other, but both Garrek and Harper have secrets that keep them from fully committing to each other. They also have to deal with their friends and family continually pushing them together. It didn't take me long to figure out what Harper's issue was. I rooted for her when she finally spoke of it to Garrek and cheered for his patience, understanding, and support. I felt her hurt when he didn't open up to her in return, even though she gave him multiple opportunities.

There were times I wanted to shake Garrek. He came home with the dual purpose of dealing with his inheritance and figuring out his professional future. Though the details come out slowly, the impression is that it is pretty bad. His brother Gray senses that there is something wrong, but Garrek is too ashamed to share his troubles. He keeps insisting that he is okay. Garrek had both Gray and Harper available for support, and he shut them both out. That mistake comes back to bite him when Harper stumbles across an incriminating text and runs. I loved his conversation with Gray, who had a great time pointing out Garrek's obliviousness about his feelings for Harper. I also loved it when Garrek finally broke down and confessed all to Gray, and the immediate support he received. The scene back at Garrek's base was fantastic, and I thoroughly enjoyed how it worked out. Now all he had to do was make things right with Harper. I loved his big moment with her at the end.

 

Hunting for a Highlander - Lynsay Sands (Avon - Jan 2020)

Series: Highlander Brides (Book 8)

Lady Dwyn Innes feels utterly out of place among the eligible women who've descended on Buchanan Keep, vying for the attention of the last unmarried brothers. She isn't long-legged and slender like her sisters, or flirtatious and wily like other lasses. Since her betrothed died, Dwyn has resigned herself to becoming an old maid. Yet a chance encounter with a stranger in the orchard awakens her to a new world of sensation and possibility...

After weeks away, Geordie Buchanan returns to find his home swarming with potential brides, thanks to his loving but interfering family. But one lass in particular draws his attention from the moment he spies her climbing a tree. Lady Dwyn is not nearly as plain as she thinks. Her lush figure and eager kisses delight him, as does her honesty. But the real test lies ahead: eliminating a hidden enemy, so that he and Dwyn can seal their Highland passion with a vow.

Fun book. With four of the seven Buchanan brothers married off, their sister and sister-in-law feel that it's time Geordie, Rory, and Alick, also settle down. To aid in this endeavor, they invite a selection of unmarried women to visit, hoping to tempt the men into matrimony.

Geordie was away for several months, helping various members of his family settle into their new homes. He returned late one night to discover his home stuffed with people, so he slept in the orchard. He awoke the next morning to the sounds of several women making horse noises and the sight of another woman climbing a tree.

Dwyn is one of the women invited to Buchanan Keep, but she holds out no hope to attract one of the men. She is neither thin nor beautiful, a fact that several of the other women do not hesitate to remind her. Tired of their constant tormenting, Dwyn escapes to the orchard and climbs a tree, knowing her pursuers wouldn't think to look up.

I loved the first meeting between Geordie and Dwyn. Geordie's protective instincts are aroused when he sees Dwyn climb the tree and thinks she won't be able to get down. Dwyn is startled to have a strange man suddenly appear in her tree and isn't quite sure how to deal with him at first. Her embarrassment is compounded by the fact that the dress her sisters altered cause her bosom to escape its confines. I loved how quickly Geordie and Dwyn became comfortable with each other. Geordie got an earful of why the keep was so crowded, giving him advance warning of what to expect when he finally goes inside. He is intrigued by Dwyn's straightforward attitude and very attracted to her lush figure. He also has no intention of marrying any time soon, feeling that he still has wild oats to sow. Dwyn is upfront in her opinion of her attributes and chances and her frustration with the position she is in. She is stunned when Geordie suddenly kisses her and can't help responding. She's equally stunned when he suddenly stops, drops from the tree, and disappears.

Thus begins an unusual courtship. Though Geordie insists to his brothers that he is not ready to marry, he also inadvertently gives away that he has already met Dwyn and is attracted to her. It was fun to watch his uncle pay attention to Dwyn solely to stir up Geordie's jealousy and make him realize that he wants Dwyn for himself. When Dwyn is injured after being the subject of his attention, Geordie makes it his mission to care for her. I loved seeing them get to know each other. It's clear that Geordie is falling hard for Dwyn, though he resists admitting his feelings to himself. Dwyn is oblivious to Geordie's feelings, believing that he's just being nice. When Geordie finally realizes that he wants Dwyn as his wife, he wastes no time in going to her father. I had to laugh at the meeting with her father and his brother and his impatience to get the marriage accomplished.

It quickly becomes apparent that someone doesn't want the marriage to take place. Geordie is determined to do whatever he must to keep Dwyn safe. But there is another enemy who is bent on revenge against Dwyn. He wants her family's land and didn't take kindly to her refusal of his advances. The story gets intense very quickly when Geordie is injured foiling one kidnapping attempt. When a second attempt is successful, Dwyn must rely on her own wits to stay alive until Geordie can come to her rescue. I was glued to the pages as Dwyn faced off against her enemy, and Geordie rallied his family. I loved the final confrontation and seeing the bad guy get what was coming to him. It was intense, but with a few lighter moments popping up.

We are now down to two brothers left unmarried. Will it be Rory or Alick who falls next? I can't wait to find out.

Restless Hearts - B.J. Daniels (HQN - Nov 2019)

Series: Montana Justice (Book 1)

He's fighting for a second chance with his first love…before it's too late.

The last time PI Blaze McClintock was on her family's ranch, she left in handcuffs. She vowed then to never go home again…until her estranged father is accused of murder. He's not a good man -- this entire Montana town knows that. But Blaze believes her father is innocent and she'll do anything to prove it, even ask the one man who broke her heart for help -- the only man in town who's on her side.

No matter how hard he tried, Jake Horn could never forget Blaze. As teenagers, their passion ignited, leaving destruction in their wake. Now, years later, it's obvious little has changed. But as they work together to unravel what really happened that night, a dangerous secret threatens to separate them for good. This time, though, Jake won't let Blaze go without a fight -- even if it means risking his own life.

Good book. Blaze has not been home in many years thanks to her estrangement from her father. But when she learns he was charged with murdering a neighboring rancher, she heads for home. When she first arrives, Blaze believes that Monte is guilty of the murder, but is determined that he have a fair trial. It isn't long before Blaze changes her mind about his guilt and turns her efforts to proving his innocence. Though it pains her to do so, she will even accept ex-boyfriend Jake's help.

Jake hasn't been able to forget Blaze. He's more than happy to help her with her investigation as it gives him the chance to spend time with her. He is determined to do everything he can to prove his love to her.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Blaze and Jake. Their previous relationship burned hot, disturbing both with the strength of their feelings. Blaze took advantage of an incident with Jake to break off the relationship. She's not happy at first to discover he was sent by a mutual friend to help her. Though she claims to be over him, there is no doubt about the sparks that still fly between them. But Blaze has trouble trusting Jake's professed feelings after witnessing the disintegration of her parents' marriage. She doesn't believe that love lasts. As they worked together, Blaze's feelings for Jake grew, but she was afraid to acknowledge them. I loved Jake's patience and persistence as he showed Blaze how he felt in many different ways. There were some sweet scenes as he took care of her, and some steamy ones as the sparks between them continued to grow. Jake refused to give in to those sparks without Blaze's admission of her feelings, creating some volatile moments. I liked the conversation between Blaze and Monte that helped put some of her fears to rest, but it was nearly losing each other forever that pushed Blaze past those fears. I liked Jake's big moment, even though it wasn't quite what he'd planned.

The suspense of the story was terrific. I was a little surprised that Blaze believed Monte was guilty when she first came back. But it didn't take long for her to pick up on the clues that Monte was likely protecting someone by pleading guilty. Blaze accepted Jake's help in investigating after realizing that it wasn't going to be easy to discover the truth. Monte was not a popular man, and many were more than willing to believe he was guilty. At the top of that list was the sheriff, who had a long-standing grudge against Monte. The deeper that Blaze and Jake delved into the past, the more suspects they found for Frank's murder. They also stirred up a veritable beehive of trouble, resulting in several attempts on their lives. The tension increased the closer they got to the truth. The final confrontation was intense, with a couple of unexpected revelations. There was also the secondary mystery of what had really happened to Blaze's mother, which drove the sheriff's vendetta against Monte. The resolution of that question was very well done.

I loved the depth of characterization of the people of Saddle Butte. It was interesting to see the number of secrets that were present in this small town and how pulling one thread unraveled so many of them.