Twin Jeopardy - Cindi Myers (HI #2262 - Jan 2025)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Criminal History (Book 3)
 
Finding his twin could get him killed…
 
Fifteen years ago on a family camping trip, Vince Shepherd's twin vanished without a trace. Her body was never found. The cold case makes headlines again when local reporter Tammy Patterson interviews Vince…and a series of taunting notes makes them suspect his twin might be alive. Hope collides with passion as Vince and Tammy chase down leads while trying to resist their attraction. Every step brings them closer to the shocking truth…and someone who has waited a long time for vengeance.
 
Terrific story that kept me enthralled from start to finish. The suspense was intense, and the frequent flashbacks gave insight into the events that continue to affect the lives of those involved.
 
Vince is a relatively new member of the Search and Rescue team. The story opens with him as part of a team investigating a sighting of bones in the mountains. The site isn't far from where his family camped fifteen years earlier when his twin sister disappeared. Vince is on edge, wondering if the bones could belong to his sister, Valerie. He's still thinking about it that evening when reporter Tammy Patterson approaches him.
 
Tammy is a reporter for the local paper. She wants to do a series of articles about the SAR team celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary. She plans to start with the story of the search for Valerie, which had a lasting impact on future searches.
 
I liked Tammy's sensitivity when interviewing Vince and his parents. She looked for accurate information rather than something to sensationalize the tragedy. She was easy for Vince to open up with. Having lost a sibling, her empathy was a big part of their connection.
 
Tammy's article was well received and stirred up some renewed interest in the case. But neither she nor Vince expected the odd things that began to happen. From strange notes accusing them of lying about the disappearance to vandalism and attacks claimed by a mysterious person who signs their work with a V, both wonder if it is a scammer or Valerie. And if it is Valerie, why are there negative actions? The attacks intensified until a nail-biter of a final confrontation that left everyone shocked.
 
There were sparks of attraction between Tammy and Vince from the moment they met, but their connection went beyond the physical. Because both had tragedies in their pasts, they found it easy to talk to each other. As they worked together to identify V, their feelings for each other grew stronger. I loved Vince's protectiveness as the threats intensified and Tammy's desire to be there for him during these weird occurrences. I loved the emotional ending and commitment to get through life together. 

Lyon's Lover - Maggie Sims (Dragonblade - Dec 2024)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 69)
 
A wastrel lord and an ex-courtesan forced together must pay the price of their past sins.
 
She's planning for the future…
Having enjoyed a successful career as mistress to various members of the Ton, Isabella Rossi longs to walk away from her past. She wants a normal life with all it entails -- a husband, a home, and children. Isabella seeks out the Black Widow, owner of the Lyon's Den gaming hell who also runs a specialized matchmaking service.
 
He's living for the moment…
Heir to an earldom, Luke Lynwood is addicted to drinking, gambling, and avoiding his responsibilities. But when he gambles more than he can afford, the Black Widow offers him an alternative way to repay his massive debt.
 
Under Isabella's reluctant tutelage, Luke must come to terms with his lack of self-control and face his father, which might just take a Christmas miracle.
 
This was a good enemies to lovers story with a lot going on. There is addiction, family conflict, class differences, and an older woman/younger man as themes that kept me turning the pages.
 
Isabella (Belle) is a retired courtesan looking for a change. After a successful career and intelligent investing, she has more than enough to live comfortably. But Belle wants a husband, children, and a life away from her past. She asks Mrs. Dove-Lyon to work her matchmaking magic for her. Mrs. Dove-Lyon is willing but has an unusual requirement. She knows Belle successfully helped a young woman beat an addiction and wants Belle to help a problem client overcome his vices.
 
Luke Lynwood is well down the road to ruin. He lost his mother at an early age and has a tense relationship with his father. Luke spends his days and nights drinking and gambling until the night he loses far too much at the Lyon's Den. Mrs. Dove-Lyon tells him he has a choice: get sober, or she writes to his father about his debts.
 
Though Belle is not happy with the mission, she is determined to carry it out to the best of her ability. Luke is very uncooperative at first, and he and Belle clash constantly. But after a few days, Luke begins to feel the results of her tough love approach. Neither one expects the sparks of attraction that flare up between them. Luke is an accomplished flirt who enjoys getting under Belle's skin. He also begins to appreciate her efforts on his behalf, and his confidence grows. I liked how Belle challenged him to take control of his life and future.
 
I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. From antagonists to friends to lovers, it wasn't an easy journey. Once Luke finished his "program" and was cleared by Mrs. Dove-Lyon, they were in for another shock. Mrs. Dove-Lyon reveals that her choice of husband for Belle is none other than Luke himself! Belle is horrified. She cares for Luke but fears that her reputation will cause him irreparable harm, and she resists any attempts to convince her otherwise. Luke takes to the idea quickly. But there is one other obstacle to a happy ending for them, and it shows up as a twist near the end.
 
The ending was terrific. I loved how Belle's past and future came together unexpectedly. It warmed my heart to see the support she received and the difference it made to her view of the future. 

 
 

A Father's Redemption - Sabrina York (HSE #3041 - Apr 2024)

Series: Tuttle Sisters of Coho Cove (Book 3)
 
It'll take the unlikeliest of people to rescue this single dad…
 
Ben Sherrod had been attracted to nurse Celeste Tuttle since they met, even though she's never hidden her contempt for his development company. But he's moved on from the awkward boy he was in high school. When Celeste is thrust back into his life, he's not sure how to handle things…especially the rush of old and new feelings he's suddenly confronted with. But Celeste is hesitant about commitment -- especially with Ben, a man still scarred by his failed marriage, his wife's death and his daughter's trauma following that tragic event. Soon, though, they're bonding over shared challenges, discovering just how much common ground they share. Maybe their next venture might be a step into a new future…together.
 
Good enemies-to-lovers/second chance story. Celeste has known Ben since they were in high school. She has been an activist all her life and blamed Ben for his father's real estate development. She has treated him like an enemy ever since. Ben never saw Celeste as an enemy. He had a big crush on her in high school but was first too shy, then too intimidated, to ask her out.
 
Celeste wasn't too happy when she found out she would work with Ben on the grant proposal for a new clinic. However, she quickly realized that attitude wouldn't be productive when they had a short deadline to meet. I liked her conscious decision to clear the air, though she didn't expect to discover that he was not the evil businessman she thought he was.
 
Ben never approved of how his father handled Coho Cove's development and made significant changes when he inherited the company. Unfortunately, the work required strained his marriage. He feels a lot of guilt over his failed marriage, the accident that killed his wife, and the effect it had on their daughter, Quinn.
 
I enjoyed watching Celeste and Ben's relationship develop. Once Celeste got past her dislike of him, she discovered that she and Ben had much in common. There were some terrific scenes of them spending time together and realizing how much they were alike. What neither expected was the attraction that flared between them. Their feelings for each other grow, but obstacles keep them from going all in. Celeste had been burned in an earlier relationship, and trusting again did not come easily. Ben has a pile of insecurities that make it difficult for him to believe he deserves to be happy.  It takes nearly losing her for Ben to let go of his fears and take a chance.
 
I loved Ben's daughter, Quinn. She hasn't spoken since the accident that killed her mother. Other than that, she is a happy, healthy little girl. Her relationship with her daddy is fantastic, and I loved watching Ben with her. Quinn and Celeste take to each other, and their scenes together are sweet. Some adorable parts with Quinn and her best friend, Celeste's nephew JJ, lead to an unexpected development later in the book. I loved the ending, and the epilogue was terrific. 

 

Snowbound with a Baby - Melissa Senate (HSE #3009 - Oct 2023)

Series: Dawson Family Ranch (Book 12)
 
Snowy with a chance of love
 
Detective Reed Dawson should be looking for the mother who abandoned her infant in his office. But a freak snowstorm has him stranded and left to care for the baby with social worker Aimee Gallagher. Reed can see that Aimee is a caring person and a natural mother. But despite their ice-melting attraction, Reed's painful past prevents him from getting involved. So why does he keep imagining their future as a family?
 
Good book about two people with painful pasts who come together to care for an abandoned baby. Detective Reed Dawson arrived at work one morning to find a newborn baby on his desk and a note begging him to care for her "for a few days." Because of that note, Reed intends to care for baby Summer himself despite the efforts of social worker and foster mother Aimee Gallagher. When Reed joins Aimee at her home to discuss the matter, a freak snowstorm snows them in together.
 
I enjoyed watching Aimee and Reed's relationship develop as they cared for little Summer. Reed's ease with the baby impresses Aimee, but she also senses some turmoil. His past marriage made him wary of getting close to anyone, but Summer and Aimee didn't take long to sneak past his walls. Reed fights against his growing feelings for Aimee to the point where he makes a boneheaded decision near the end and almost loses her. He gets some good advice from his cousin, but the real eye-opening comes from a conversation with a new acquaintance.
 
Aimee also has a painful past, one that sent her on the journey to become a foster mother. I ached for her and the betrayal she suffered. She, too, doubts the likelihood of a successful relationship, but she doesn't let that stop her from her dream of becoming a mother. Her excitement at caring for Summer was evident, as was her disappointment at Reed's refusal to give up on her care. I ached for her as she fell hard for Reed and realized he would not return her feelings. I liked how she stayed true to her needs despite Reed's idea and held out for love.
 
The scenes of Aimee and Reed caring for Summer were sweet and realistic. I loved how Reed's experience showed Aimee the difference between the classroom and real life.
 
Part of the book covered Reed's search for Summer's mother. Her note implied she knew him, and I could feel Reed's determination to figure out who she was. I enjoyed seeing her story unfold. The resolution of her dilemma was terrific.

 
 
 

Undercover Cowboy Protector - Kacy Cross (HRS #2274 - Apr 2024)

Series: Secrets of Hidden Creek Ranch (Book 1)
 
A hidden treasure may save her ranch…
Or cost her her life.
 
Ex-SEAL Ace Madden is working undercover as a cowboy to protect Sophia Lang, a new ranch owner who's in more trouble than she realizes. But his attraction to Sophia is complicating his mission. When Sophia's confronted by an intruder searching for a treasure map, she enlists Ace's help to find the treasure before her mysterious attacker does. As danger draws them close, Ace must resist his hunger for Sophia. Can he find a way to protect her from the people trying to steal the fortune on her land? And can he save himself from falling in love while they solve the mystery?
 
Good mix of romance and suspense, with a bit of history mixed in with it. Sophia is a former advertising executive who gladly gave up her job when she inherited her grandfather's ranch. She plans to turn it into a dude ranch.
 
Ace is a former SEAL who started a security firm and was hired by an unknown person to protect Sophia, with the condition that he doesn't reveal his identity. Ace is undercover as a ranch hand and has a tough time. He is intensely attracted to Sophia, which distracts him from his mission.
 
The trouble begins when she confronts a masked intruder searching for a treasure map. Fortunately, Ace is nearby and saves her. Sophia immediately recruits him to help her find the treasure before the intruder does. Their search draws some unwelcome attention, including shots fired and runaway heavy equipment. Their search has ups and downs, and there is an intense confrontation at the end. While the immediate question of who was behind the attacks was solved, there are unresolved questions that I expect will be addressed in the following books.
 
I enjoyed watching the development of Sophia and Ace's relationship. Their attraction is immediate, though neither is looking for a relationship. Ace resists for two reasons: first, he is there for the job, and getting involved would not be professional. Second, because of past actions, Ace believes he does not deserve a woman like her. Sophia has trouble trusting men but finds it easy to trust Ace. Their attraction continues to grow, no matter how they try to resist. I was a little frustrated by Ace's tendency to back away every time he gave in to the sparks. There are fireworks when Sophia learns the truth about Ace's presence, and it takes some self-examination from each to overcome the insecurities holding them back. I'm looking forward to seeing more of them in subsequent books.
 
The secondary characters also have essential roles in the story. Sophia's sister, Charli, originally wanted no part of Sophia's plans for the ranch. She shows up near the end, expressing more interest in participating. I enjoyed the back-and-forth between the sisters and seeing the dynamics of their relationship. There is a good part near the end where Charli makes a vital contribution to the plans for the ranch.
 
Also arriving near the end are Ace's two partners, Heath and Paxton. They, too, start as undercover ranch hands, backing up Ace as he tries to keep Sophia and Charli safe. I laughed at how they gave Ace a hard time about his distractedness around Sophia. I suspect both men will play roles in the following books with Sophia's sisters, Charli and Veronica. 

Reunited with Her Off-Limits Surgeon - Amy Ruttan (HMED #1354 - Nov 2023)

One stolen night -- and ten years later…
 
Deaf audiologist Maeve hasn't seen Finn since their stolen night ten years ago. Now he's her hospital's temporary ENT surgeon -- and sparks are still flying! Finn's only returned long enough to learn sign language for his dream job. Maeve's always craved adventure, but has people who depend on her. Unable to leave and protective of her emotions, she knows a relationship with Finn is off-limits! But denying their attraction has never been easy…
 
Good second chance romance. When they were growing up, Finn and Maeve had crushes on each other. But Maeve was Finn's best friend's little sister and off-limits to him. Neither knew how the other felt until the night before Finn left for college when they gave in to their feelings. But Finn couldn't wait to get out of Kansas, and once he was gone, he didn't return.
 
Ten years later, Finn returns to Wichita to settle his parents' estate and learn American Sign Language to improve his chances of getting the California-based job he wants. While doing so, he fills in as the local hospital's ENT surgeon. He often wondered what had happened to Maeve and is stunned to find her working in the same hospital.
 
Maeve is mostly deaf and had an over-protective mother. Her best memories are the times she tagged along with her brother, Rolf, and Finn. She works as an audiologist at the hospital and teaches ASL. She lives with Rolf and his deaf son, helping to care for them.
 
During their ten years apart, Maeve and Finn never forgot each other and never entered into relationships with other people. Finn has been too busy with his career. He also has no plans to marry and have a family. After being raised by indifferent parents, he fears that he would be like them and refuses to inflict that pain on children of his own. Maeve is comfortable with her life as it is, caring for her brother and nephew. She was affected by how other people treated her as a child and keeps her emotions tightly controlled.
 
The sparks between Maeve and Finn are intense, but he has no intention of staying in Kansas, and Maeve has no plans to leave. They attempt to bury their feelings and limit themselves to being friends only. But the time they spend together brings them closer, and emotions bubble to the surface. I ached for Finn, who realized he was lonely and wanted Maeve to stay in his life. But he fears rejection, so he says nothing about his feelings. I ached for Maeve, who longs for a change but won't desert the people who need her. I liked seeing them work through their issues and find the courage to be honest with each other. I loved the advice both received and the difference it made. The epilogue was terrific, and I liked how their future worked out.
 
Maeve's nephew, RJ, was a sweetheart and stole the scenes he was in. I especially enjoyed seeing his effect on Finn. A crisis at the end involved him, and I was glued to the pages to see how it worked out.
 
I enjoyed the medical theme of hearing loss, its causes and treatments, and its challenges. The information was integral to the story, not just an info dump.

 
 

A Lyon in Waiting - Abigail Bridges (Dragonblade - Dec 2024)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 68)
 
They are both hiding the darkest of secrets. But will saving one be the destruction of the other?
 
Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon, owner of the renowned Lyon’s Den, knows how to match unmarriageable women with the perfect mate. But even she may not be able to help a woman too determined to walk her own path, failures and all.
 
After Lady Mary Caudale faced ruin and humiliation because of a mistake, she knew her chances of a debut season had vanished. Then her brother, the Duke of Kirkstone, and his new wife Beth came up with a daring plan to salvage Mary’s future. But as the family returns to London, they discover that Mary’s “secret” is not so secret, with the news working its way through the ton. So Mary and her brother turn to the owner of the Lyon’s Den, Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon herself, to find Mary a husband before her reputation is destroyed beyond repair.
 
Enter Lord Thaddeus Ephraim Bolton, second son, Earl of Crookham, a man with an unfortunate gambling habit who owes Mrs. Dove-Lyon a great deal of money. But Thad, in the way of such gentlemen, has a number of dark secrets of his own. Secrets that will screech into the light if he agrees to the Lyon’s demand that he marry this odd but lovely woman from the north.
 
But as Mary and Thad risk giving each other a chance, Thad realizes this secretive beauty may just be the very person he has been waiting a lifetime to find.
 
Very good book. Both main characters are likable and realistic, with believable faults and insecurities. Once again, Mrs. Dove-Lyon arranges an excellent match.
 
Two years earlier, Lady Mary made a mistake that had lasting consequences. Her brother, Kit, Duke of Kirkstone, and his wife Beth helped cover up the scandal, but when Mary went to London for her Season, rumors followed. Society shuns her, making it impossible for her to find a husband. With Kit and Beth about to leave for India, Kit and Mary appeal to Mrs. Dove-Lyon for help finding her a husband.
 
Thad is the younger son of the Earl of Crookham. As the "spare," he was mostly ignored by his family. He and his father disagreed on his future plans, and the woman he loved married someone else. With no direction, Thad spends his time gambling badly and accumulates more and more debt. Some he owes to a shady character, and some to the Lyon's Den. When Mrs. Dove-Lyon offers to pay his debts if he marries Mary, Thad agrees. He is instantly attracted to her but also wary of the secrets that forced her to take this route.
 
I liked Mary and Thad and enjoyed following the development of their relationship. I liked how Thad insisted that they take two weeks to "court," giving them a chance to know each other and him a chance to uncover her secrets. One of the things I liked best about Mary is that she stands up for herself despite her family's attempts to mold her into their version of "ladylike." Thad appreciates her fire. I loved his surprise at her vocabulary and how her obvious intelligence made her more appealing to him. I liked his protectiveness, also. There were a couple of terrific scenes in which he faced down a particularly vicious gossiper in her defense. He won my heart with his reaction to her secret.
 
Thad has a few secrets/issues himself. One was surprising, considering his age and the era in which he lives, but it doesn't seem to have been a problem in the end. However, he is badly injured when one of his mistakes catches up with him. I hurt for him because of his family's reaction and loved how Mrs. Dove-Lyon, Mary, and her family stepped in and made him feel as though he was part of a family.
 
I loved that Mary and Thad were open and honest with each other about their pasts, feeling that a genuine relationship must be based on trust. I liked the epilogue and seeing how they are doing a few months later. I have great hopes that Thad has finally found something better than gambling to occupy his time. 

Fortune's Holiday Surprise - Jennifer Wilck (HQN - Dec 2024)

Series: Fortunes of Texas: Fortune's Secret Children (Book 5)
 
He'd lost the holiday spirit…
Until she brought light back into his life.
 
Rancher Arlo Fortune is devastated when he loses his best friend in a tragic accident. The only thing that heals him is opening his heart to his friend's adorable daughter, Aviva…and his friend's grieving sister-in-law, the brand-new guardian to the orphaned child. Carrie Kaplan has one mission: to lavish her niece with love in a Jewish home like her sister always wanted. Her stop in Chatelaine is only temporary. Right? But as she teaches Aviva about the miracle of Hanukkah, holiday magic might just beckon from Arlo's ranch around the bend…
 
Terrific book. I loved the multicultural aspect of the story with the inclusion of Carrie' Jewish heritage and customs. I know very little about Jewish traditions, and this was enlightening and enjoyable.
 
After the unexpected deaths of her sister and brother-in-law, Carrie became the guardian of her niece, Aviva. Coping with her grief at the same time, she tries to give Aviva as normal a holiday as possible, which is not easy. She longs to return to her life in Albuquerque but doesn't want to upend Aviva's life any more than necessary.
 
Arlo is grieving the loss of his best friend, Isaac. He wants to continue being part of Aviva's life and makes a point of spending time with her. He is also dealing with unresolved issues about his father, adding a bit of mystery to the story.
 
I enjoyed the development of Carrie and Arlo's relationship. They come together because of their grief and love for Aviva. Arlo insists on helping Carrie fix up the house while she deals with settling the family's affairs.  Their romance developed as they got to know each other. I loved seeing Arlo's interest in Carrie's traditions and enthusiastic participation as Carried prepared for the holiday. Carrie's support of Arlo as he deals with a mystery surrounding his father goes a long way toward restoring Arlo's holiday spirit. The question is whether Carrie's growing feelings for Arlo will be enough to keep her from returning to Albuquerque.
 
I liked seeing Carrie's introduction to small-town life. She's used to the anonymity of city life, and it takes her some time to adjust to the closeness of the people of Chatelaine. I loved how welcoming and inclusive they were, with a terrific scene at the town's holiday festival. I also loved the ending and seeing both families' celebrations. 

Regency Christmas Weddings - Christine Merrill, Liz Tyner, Elizabeth Beacon (HH #1829 - Dec 2024)

Overall, an enjoyable trio of holiday stories. I liked the first one the best.

In A Mistletoe Kiss for the Governess by Christine Merrill, Major Frederick Preston is stunned when his daughters' governess is not the stern matron he expects but a beguiling miss who challenges and tempts him!
 
After five years at war, Frederick looks forward to spending time with his daughters. He's shocked when he discovers the governess he hired (sight unseen) isn't the older woman he expected but a much younger one. He's uncomfortable with his immediate attraction to her, which causes him to behave rudely at first. I liked that Charlotte stood up for herself and her actions with the girls. However, Frederick and Charlotte had gotten to know each other reasonably well through the letters they exchanged over the years, which helped Frederick readjust his expectations. During that same period of letter writing, Charlotte developed feelings for Frederick that translated into romantic dreams. Frederick fights his feelings until he finally realizes that Charlotte has had his heart all along.
 
 
 
In The Earl's Yuletide Proposal by Liz Tyner, delivering the news that her cousin is calling off her engagement should be simple for Adriana. Until the earl proposes to her instead!
 
Adriana is the poor cousin who acts as her wealthier cousin Velma's companion. Velma is spoiled and manipulative. As the story opens, Velma hears a rumor that her fiancé isn't as wealthy as she thought, so she sends Adriana to end their engagement. Adriana is stunned when he proposes to her instead. However, she has strong opinions on marriage and love and turns him down. Lord Philbrook, once he has an idea in his head isn't going to let go of it easily, and persists. Adriana's relationships with the other servants at her cousin's make her reluctant to leave them. Meanwhile, Philbrook quickly realizes he had a lucky escape and won't give up on convincing Adriana to marry him. I liked the ending and the unexpected help he received.
 

 
In Lord Grange's Snowy Reunion by Elizabeth Beacon, years ago, Juno fell in love with Lord Nathaniel Grange, then war tore them apart. Will a snowbound night lead to a second chance?
 
Juno fell in love with the newly divorced Lord Nathaniel Grange five years earlier. Fearing that his scandal would reflect poorly on her, he went to war, hoping the gossip would fade while he was away. But as time passed, his insecurities convinced him he was unworthy of her, so he stayed away, expecting her to move on and marry someone else. Juno never forgot Nathaniel and has never married. When Juno makes an impulsive trip to visit family, a snowstorm strands her at Nathaniel's home. Forced together for several days, they have the opportunity to deal with their pasts and clear the air. Their feelings for each other are as strong as before, but it takes some effort for Nathaniel to let go of his fears.
 

 
 

A Colby Christmas Rescue - Debra Webb (HI #2254 - Dec 2024)

Series: Colby Agency: The Next Generation (Book 1)
 
Two special agents take on an impossible mission…
 
Special agent Jamie Colby is on a can't-fail mission. Kidnappers need her unique skills and have leveraged her family to get them. Her partner, Kendrick Poe, is a bonus for the abductors. But with ransom and reunion complicating the assignment, Jamie and Kendrick will have to break every professional rule to rescue loved ones caught in the cross fire. An unexpected dangerous attraction is the least of their troubles but could prove to be deadly if they're not careful.
 
I enjoy long-running series, and it is even better when the author keeps the series going with the children/grandchildren of the original characters. This is the first book in a new series involving the grandchildren of Victoria Colby-Camp, and it bodes well for the rest of the series.
 
Jamie Colby is an excellent agent in her own right. She's just finishing up a mission with her partner, Kenny Poe when she receives an urgent call from her grandmother. Jamie's brother Luke has been kidnapped to use as a hostage. The kidnappers need Jamie's skills, but she isn't happy with what she must do to fulfill the requirements. She and her partner, Kenny, have worked together for several years and are good friends.
 
There isn't much romance in this story. It is evident from the start that Kenny has feelings for Jamie but doesn't want to wreck their friendship by saying anything. He is protective of her but respects her abilities as an agent. It wasn't until the end that I got a good read on Jamie's feelings for him. This was a friends-to-more story, though I never saw much heat between them. I liked the ending and the easy shift into a couple.
 
The suspense was terrific. Matters quickly become complicated when the kidnapper's contact is a man Jamie has worked with before. It is difficult to tell whether he is working with them or against them, and there were times I wanted them to tie him up and leave him in a closet. Interference from a third party adds a layer of intensity when Jamie and a young girl are kidnapped themselves. Some tense moments ensued, but Jamie and Kenny could complete their mission. After all the build-up, I found it somewhat anti-climactic, but it kept my attention to the end.
 
I liked the twist at the end regarding Jamie's future. It will be interesting to follow her progress in later books. 

Covert Avenger - Rachel Lee (HI #2241 - Oct 2024)

Series: Conard County (Book 75)
 
His return has stirred up more trouble than he ever imagined…
 
CIA operative Devlin Paltier never thought returning to his small Wyoming hometown would be riskier than an undercover mission. But Devlin knows that revealing he's no ordinary cowboy could bring danger to everyone in his world. Including Deputy Elaine Paltier, his widowed sister-in-law and the off-limits woman he's never been able to forget. Before long, though, Devlin's dark secrets come back to haunt him…along with two killers hell-bent on revenge. Now protecting Elaine becomes the most crucial assignment of his career -- and the only way to secure a possible shared future.
 
Good book, though a little different than the usual Conard County book. This one was more of a suspense/mental intrigue than an action-packed one. Devlin is a CIA operative on leave after one of his informants was murdered. Someone revealed Niko's identity, and Devlin blamed himself. Devlin returns to his hometown while the powers-that-be try to find the responsible party. His family is shocked to discover that he plans to stay for as much as a month because he rarely stays more than a few days during those rare times he visits. His family doesn't know about his CIA identity; they believe he works for the State Department.
 
Devlin's sister-in-law, Elaine, is his brother's widow and the single mother of an autistic daughter, Cassie. She is also a deputy with the Conard County Sheriff's Office. Between her job and Cassie, her life is full. I ached for her and the pain she feels for Cassie and her heartache over her daughter's challenges.
 
Neither Devlin nor Elaine expected the attraction between them or the deeper connection they felt when spending time together. I loved watching them get to know each other. I especially liked Devlin's interest in Cassie and understanding of her challenges. Spending time together also shows them how lonely they are. They have some decisions to make and fears to face before they can hope for a future together. The ending was sweet and heartwarming.
 
Tension increases when Devlin gets the feeling of being watched. With his past, there was always a chance that someone would come after him. His protective instincts emerge, and he is determined to keep his family safe. I liked his and Elaine's teamwork as they combined forces to uncover the threat. We get a good look at the people sent to kill Devlin, their motivation, and their worries. I felt bad for them, their loss, and their confusion over the right thing to do. The confrontation with them did not go the way I expected. 

Family of Three Under the Tree - Traci Douglass (HMED #1432 - Dec 2024)

Series: Wyckford General Hospital (Book 4)
 
AN UNEXPECTED GIFT IN THEIR STOCKING
 
Radiologist Riley isn't interested in romance. After an accident left her in a wheelchair, she'll prove she doesn't need anyone's help -- especially neurosurgeon Sam's. But despite his being infuriatingly gorgeous, she can't knock her new research partner's commitment to their study. Single dad Sam's still fighting his grief and is hell-bent on curing the disease that stole his wife. Yet he can't stop thinking about Riley…or the way his little girl lights up around her. With their undeniable attraction growing, could a family of three top their Christmas lists?
 
Good book about two people whose pasts have made them resistant to romance. Riley is an independent woman who vehemently insists she doesn't need to depend on anyone else for help after an accident left her in a wheelchair. I found her a little abrasive at times when she rejected well-meaning offers of assistance, but I also understood her frustration at being treated as helpless by some. Riley has a job she loves as a radiologist and family and friends she loves. She doesn't understand her sudden fascination with her coworker, Sam.
 
Sam is a single father who moved to Wyckford after his wife's death, looking for a new start. He is still grieving for his wife and is determined to continue searching for a cure for the disease that killed her. He's closed off his emotions to anyone other than his daughter, Ivy, to protect his heart from more pain. He doesn't understand why Riley suddenly pops into his mind so often.
 
With Sam's daughter, Ivy, and Riley's niece, Adi, being best friends, Sam and Riley suddenly find themselves spending more time together. The sparks between them intensify, but they try to ignore them. Seeing them try to convince themselves they weren't falling for each other was funny and frustrating. Their feelings for each other grow, but Riley's pride and Sam's fears keep them from embracing those feelings. It takes a near tragedy for them to put the past behind them and look to a future together. 

 
 

Second-Chance Bodyguard - Patricia Sargeant (HRS #2306 - Dec 2024)

Series: Touré Security Group (Book 3)
 
He needs her help…
And he wants her love.
 
Hezekiah Touré cares about two things: looking after his younger brothers and managing the Touré Security Group. To protect his family, he agrees to go into hiding with Celeste Jarrett after a serial killer threat. As a private investigator, Celeste has information Zeke's family can use. As a woman he tried to love, she's always been hard to reach. Sharing a safe house might lead to sharing her bed, but can he convince her to trust him? Or will the wounds she suffered in the past drive them apart again?
 
Terrific conclusion to the Touré Security Group series. Zeke is the oldest of the three brothers who co-own the company. He takes his role as manager and protective older brother seriously - sometimes too seriously, according to his brothers. As the book opens, Zeke receives a death threat after attending a client's funeral. At the same time, Celeste meets with a client who wants her to investigate her husband's death. She doesn't believe her husband killed himself.
 
Celeste's investigation uncovers a possible link between her client's questions, Zeke's client's death, and the threat against Zeke. He and his brothers join forces with Celeste to uncover the truth. The twists and turns of this case kept me guessing to the end, while the intensifying attacks kept me turning the pages. The final confrontation was a nail-biter and an eye-opening experience for Zeke.
 
I enjoyed seeing Zeke and Celeste's relationship develop. Celeste's past left her with trust issues that made her unwilling to open up with people. Zeke wanted to get to know her better, but she only shared superficial things. Working together allows Zeke to try again. The push and pull between them was interesting, as Celeste's mission is to protect Zeke, which grates on him because he is usually the protector. They grow closer as Celeste's barriers drop, but Zeke makes a boneheaded move that stirs up Celeste's insecurities. I loved seeing Zeke's brothers straighten him out (turn around is fair play). Celeste also receives some advice that helps her see past her fears. The ending was sweet and emotional and bodes well for their future. 

Wyoming Undercover Escape - Juno Rushdan (HI #2255 - Dec 2024)

Series: Cowboy State Lawmen: Duty and Honor (Book 3)
 
He once promised to protect her
Now he'll face the devil to keep his vow.
 
Rip Lockwood, former Marine Special Forces and president of the Iron Warriors motorcycle club, swore to protect Deputy Ashley Russo years ago. When she targets her brother's killer -- the dangerous leader of a rival club -- he fulfills his promise. Their undercover ruse exposes a drug operation…and an unexpected attraction. And they'll risk everything to bring a murderous crime ring to justice.
 
Terrific book that drew me into the suspense quickly and kept me hooked until the end. Rip and Ashley are connected by a tragic event that happened years ago. Ashley blames Rip, and he accepts the guilt. Now a deputy, Ashley is determined to bring her brother's killer to justice. Rip left the Marine Corps to take over leadership of the local motorcycle club and finds out about Ashley's plans.
 
Rip and Ashley have been at odds ever since her brother's murder. However, Rip has never forgotten his vow to protect her and is determined to keep her safe. This entails attempting to rein in her plans (not happening) or going along with her. Sometimes, I wanted to shake her because of the risks she took. The scene at the bar had me on the edge of my seat as she walked into the lion's den. The consequences of that excursion led to a rollercoaster of action that kept me glued to the pages until the end. The twists kept me guessing what would happen next, all the way to the nail-biter of an ending.
 
I enjoyed seeing Ashley and Rip's relationship develop. Underneath the antagonism and guilt is a strong attraction neither wants to admit. They've managed in the past by avoiding each other. Now that they spend so much time together, those sparks are more difficult to ignore. Trust grows between them, and their feelings grow stronger, but there are obstacles, too. Rip believes a relationship between the president of a motorcycle club and a deputy would be detrimental to her career, plus the after-effects of their actions make it impossible for Rip to remain there. I loved the resolution and the neat little twist at the end.
 
My only complaint with the book is that Harlequin editors consistently neglect the proper capitalization of the word Marine when referring to a member of the United States Marine Corps. 

Cinderella's Billion-Dollar Invitation - Michele Renae (HR #4888 - Feb 2024)

Series: If the Fairy Tale Fits (Book 2)
 
A DATE UNTIL MIDNIGHT…
 
Scientist Ivy's dreams are derailed following her brother's devastating illness. Now, she's working as a barista to make ends meet. So, when billionaire Wolf -- Ivy's most charming customer -- invites her to be his fake date at a glamorous ball, stepping out of her ordinary life is impossible to resist…as is his kiss! But what happens when Wolf wants her to be his Cinderella for more than just one night?
 
Good book. Ivy is an entomologist who has taken a break from her career to help her brother deal with an unexpected illness. She works as a barista in a local coffee shop to make ends meet. One charming but quiet customer catches her eye.
 
Wolf is a workaholic billionaire who built his company from nothing. A difficult childhood taught him to guard his heart, with multiple unsuccessful relationships reinforcing the necessity. He envies his business partner, Skyr, who has found love and happiness. Skyr gives Wolf a day-by-day calendar with challenges to get Wolf out of his rut. He first laughs it off but then decides to try it.
 
Wolf is a regular at the coffee shop, and we learn early that Ivy is the draw. Wolf is too reticent (maybe shy?) to speak to her, so he gets his coffee and cake and enjoys being in her presence. He orders the same thing every time until this day when the calendar challenges him to "try a new to you food." I laughed because he was not a lemon fan but chose lemon cake anyway. I laughed at his reaction and loved seeing Ivy take him a piece of his usual chocolate chip cake. They chatted for a few minutes, which he had never done before. The next day, it happened again.
 
Within a few days, Wolf involves Ivy in his daily challenges. I loved their connection and their growing friendship. I loved how Ivy encouraged Wolf's pursuit of the challenges. It doesn't take long before each feels more than friendship, but both are wary of saying anything. Wolf's invitation to his company's ball allows Ivy to step out of her everyday life and experience Wolf's. The ball scene was terrific. I enjoyed seeing Wolf's employees' reactions to Ivy and loved the promise it showed for their future.
 
However, obstacles stand in their way. Wolf's past comes back to bite him when an action taken early in their friendship damages Ivy's trust. Her reaction stirs up his insecurities. Ivy pulls away out of guilt when her brother has a medical episode while she is off with Wolf. Both must let go of the past before opening their hearts to a future together. The ending was sweet and emotional, and the epilogue wrapped the book beautifully.
 
Ivy's brother Ivan played a critical role in the book. He is the reason Ivy is in New York. His illness adds an uncertainty to their lives that both must adjust to. Ivy is a little overprotective and tends to hover more than Ivan likes. I felt that Ivan handled his diagnosis better than Ivy did. I liked their close relationship and their support of each other.

Golden Lord - Mary Jo Putney (Kensington - Nov 2024)

Series: Dangerous Gifts (Book 2)
 
Allies of the heart and soul . . .
 
England, 1803. The oldest foster child of the Earl and Countess Tremayne, Caden Tremayne was one of several abandoned children rescued into the fold of the “Tribe of Tremayne,” each bearing a special gift. Now that he is grown, Cade's superior investigative abilities and talent for preventing violence -- or when necessary, executing it -- are urgently required by the Home Office. For after an all-too-brief peace, Britain and France are about to be at war again. But it isn't the dangerous mission that concerns Cade. It's his secret love for his sweet, bright, spirited accomplice . . .
 
Will their love be the victor?
 
Tamsyn Tremayne has always felt a deep connection to Cade, whose very presence warms her heart. Yet though they are not blood, their family relationship has led her to suppress her love for him. Still, their mental bond is undeniable -- and only grows stronger, along with their feelings, when Cade is captured by the French. Tam knows that Cade will not be easily broken, yet only their meeting of minds can truly save him -- and hopefully free them to be together at last. But first, she will have to navigate a treacherous maze of enemies and allies to find him, they will have to escape France -- and block a devastating plot against Britain . . .
 
Terrific second book in the Dangerous Gifts series. The Earl and Countess of Tremayne and their natural and foster children are blessed with certain "gifts." Those abilities make them valuable assets to the Home Office. On the eve of the resumption of the war, the oldest foster son, Cade, and the oldest daughter, Tamsyn, go to Paris to escort the Ambassador back to England. The mission is dangerous, but Cade is more concerned with keeping his unsiblinglike feelings for Tamsyn under wraps.
 
The action in this book was fast-paced and intense, keeping me glued to the pages. Cade and Tamsyn must ensure that the ambassador and his people get safely out of France before the French government can stop them. The trip to Calais from Paris is mostly uneventful, except for the feeling of being watched. Trouble rears in Calais when French troops try to prevent them from leaving. Unfortunately, Cade is captured, necessitating Tamsyn effecting a rescue. Unexpected developments make this an extremely complicated process, which, though successful, has unintended consequences. Their work for the Home Office continues when they uncover a plot that could devastate Britain's naval capabilities. The resolution of this plot was a nail-biter as they raced to prevent disaster.
 
I enjoyed the development of Cade and Tamsyn's relationship. They have shared a special connection since Cade arrived in the family. As he grew older, Cade realized the truth about his feelings for Tamsyn but buried them deep. For a long time, Tamsyn looked at her feelings for Cade as a more intense connection than she felt with the others, ignoring any hint that it could be more. However, the events of this mission bring those feelings to the surface, and they must face them. I ached for them as they tried to resolve their love with the possible consequences to their larger family. The resolution of their dilemma is well done and believable.
 
One of the most fascinating things about this book is the idea of the "gifts" and how their use. Each sibling has something unique that sets them apart. Their parents have worked hard to train them to use and appreciate those gifts properly. The ability to combine their powers intrigued me, as did the emergence of new skills when they did so. I loved how they always had each other's backs, even when far apart.

 

Snowbound Christmas with the Italian Doc - Annie O'Neil (HMED #1353 - Nov 2023)

A snowy Christmas…with her gorgeous boss!
 
Spending Christmas working in the Italian Alps following another(!) breakup, Dr. Natalie is focused on keeping herself busy -- with work only! What she hadn't factored in was sexy, charismatic and caring GP Gio. Gio really is the complete package, but Natalie's on her guard this time. Until an infant abandoned in a Nativity manger temporarily needs their care, giving them a reason to embrace the spirit of the season…together!
 
Natalie, a British-Italian emergency room doctor, has just experienced the ending of yet another romantic relationship. Her Italian grandfather invited her to spend Christmas with him and his friends in the Italian Alps. This gives her a chance to reevaluate her life. She's about to turn forty, and her dream of marriage and children hasn't come to pass, so she decides to concentrate on work. Natalie also has another challenge: she has ADHD,  which frequently complicates her relationships and work.
 
I felt bad for Natalie. She's always honest about her ADHD with the men she dates, but it doesn't take long before they start trying to change her behavior. She takes short-term jobs as a substitute doctor, believing that once her coworkers get to know her, they, too, will try to change her. It makes for a lonely life. She signed on to help at the family clinic in the village where she and her grandfather are staying.
 
Gio is the doctor at the clinic. He also owns the house where Natalie and her grandfather are staying and has his own rooms there. Natalie's grandfather and his friends were Gio's professors back in medical school, so he enjoys having them stay. He's taken with Natalie when he meets her but is wary of getting involved. His last relationship also ended badly.
 
I enjoyed watching Gio and Natalie's relationship develop. Natalie's ADHD gets worse when she's nervous, and her first encounter with Gio gets her seriously flustered. Gio quickly won my heart with his easy acceptance of Natalie's quirks and insistence that nothing was wrong with her. They make a great team at work, where Natalie's rapport with the patients shines. It doesn't take long for them to admit their attraction and give in to it.
 
They do well at communicating with each other, but each still holds back just a little, their pasts making them wary of risking everything. When an abandoned baby is found in the church nativity scene, Gio and Natalie step up to care for her. But the baby's presence stirs up insecurities in both. It takes some timely advice to break through the fears holding them back. The ending was sweet, and the epilogue was fantastic. I especially enjoyed seeing how Natalie found the perfect job for her. 

 

K-9 Defender - Julie Miller (HI #2245 - Sept 2024)

Series: Protectors at K-9 Ranch (Book 2)
 
Can one woman's K-9
Convince her to trust a determined detective?
 
After a betrayal that almost took his life, Detective Joel Standage is deskbound. A new assignment is his chance to find out if he still has what it takes to be a cop. His mission? Get close to Mollie Crane, a woman who's as guarded -- and wounded -- as he is. Her service dog, Magnus, trusts Joel before she does. When it becomes clear that his interest in her crime boss ex-husband is putting her in danger, what started as a case becomes personal, and Joel will do whatever it takes to protect her…
 
Terrific book. I was hooked from the prologue and read this book in one sitting. As the book opens, we see the heartbreaking abuse Mollie's husband inflicts on her. There is a brief flash of hope that rescue is in sight, but that hope is soon dashed. Her husband's new driver looks like he wants to help, but Mollie won't endanger him by asking for assistance.
 
Fast forward two years. Mollie has escaped her abuser's clutches. She works as a waitress and tries to put the past behind her, but overcoming the fear she has lived with for so long isn't easy. She is helped along the way by her service dog, Magnus, a goofball dog with his own ideas about his job. Also present is her ex's driver from the prologue, who turned out to be an undercover detective. Joel is trying to get his life back on track after being badly injured in an undercover op that went terribly wrong.
 
I enjoyed watching Mollie and Joel's relationship develop. The connection is there, but both are wary of getting involved, thanks to the traumas of their past relationships. They settled first on friendship, pushed together by Magnus. However, Joel's protective instincts kick in when Mollie becomes a target, and Mollie finds it unexpectedly easy to trust Joel. I loved their support of each other, especially when Joel helped restore Mollie's confidence in herself. His growing feelings for Mollie show Joel he's ready to start living again.
 
The suspense kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Mollie has something her ex wants, and he will stop at nothing to get it. The escalating attacks kept Mollie and Joel on edge while working with Joel's boss to stop him. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I loved how it went down.
 
Marcus was my favorite secondary character. He is Mollie's support dog and a big, loveable goof most of the time, but that can change if the situation calls for it. He seems to have some issues paying attention to his duties. I laughed out loud when his trainer diagnosed his problem and thoroughly enjoyed Magnus's solution. 

 
 

The Lyon's Alliance - Ruth A. Casie (Dragonblade - Nov 2024)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 67)
 
In a world where love is unpredictable, alliances are everything...
 
In the heart of Regency London, amidst the glittering ballrooms and shadowy alleyways, a mystery unfolds that threatens to unravel the very fabric of high society. The intertwined fates of two men navigate a web of secrets, desire, and betrayal -- all for the love of one woman.
 
Viscount Wolfton seeks to win Christina Heartfield's heart after making a wager with Mrs. Dove-Lyon, but soon finds that he is in danger of losing his own the more he spends time with her...
 
The society papers prove troublesome as they threaten to ruin all involved... including Christina's well-meaning friend Richard St. John, who strives to prove himself while protecting those he holds dear...
 
Christina Hartfield, beset by her family's recent financial woes, finds herself caught between both men: Viscount Wolfton, with his mercurial charm and mysterious past, and Richard St. John, steadfast and sincere. The stakes are high, with reputations, fortunes, and hearts on the line.
 
In a world where appearances can be deceiving, Christina must discern who she can truly trust, and the most profound alliances are often those least expected...
 
Good book whose twists and turns kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Lies, betrayals, and rumors made this love triangle more complex.
 
Viscount "Wolf" Wolfton is known for charming the ladies but moving on as soon as they start hinting at marriage. He's frustrated at the constant assault on his bachelorhood and asks Mrs. Dove-Lyon to accompany him to several charity events as protection. She declines but proposes a bet: She will find him a companion who can resist his charm.
 
Christina's family is in financial difficulties due to an investment that is the victim of an embezzler. She helps Mrs. Dove-Lyon with planning a series of charity events, and when the widow offers to pay her to take her place during those events, Christina can't say no. Christina isn't the usual society miss. She has a mind of her own, an interest in astronomy, and a caring heart.
 
Richard St. John is Christina's brother-in-law's cousin. He has been drawn to Christina since he met her. He has a quiet, steadfast personality rather than Wolf's blatant charm.
 
Christina spends a great deal of time in Wolf's company, attending the charity events. She enjoys his company but also senses that he has secrets that prey on him. I had mixed feelings about Wolf. He has charm and potential but also exhibits ungentlemanly behavior that turned me off. Meanwhile, Richard is there to help when Christina needs him, and they bond over their interest in astronomy. I loved Richard's protectiveness, Christina's worry about him, and how it brought them closer together.
 
Trouble comes when Wolf gives in to jealousy and makes a stupid decision. Meanwhile, rumors swirl around Richard, casting aspersions on his honor. Mrs. Dove-Lyons leads the charge to clear Richard's name. The twists and turns of the investigation kept me guessing to the end. There was one surprise at the end I didn't see coming. I'd like to see it followed up on in a later book.

 
 

The Maui Effect - Sara Ackerman (Mira - Nov 2024)

They say opposites attract, but are they meant to last?
 
'Iwa Young's life is high in the Maui rainforest. As a field biologist, she's happiest in the company of trees and birds and waterfalls. When a developer arrives with plans for a so-called eco-resort in the middle of a forest full of endangered species, 'Iwa puts all her energy into the fight to protect it. But a chance encounter threatens to distract her. His name is Dane Parsons, a big-wave surfer from California. 'Iwa has a few unbreakable rules, and at the top of her list: never date a surfer.
 
Dane is part of an underground group of big-wave riders, and his connection to the ocean runs deep. When he meets 'Iwa, he can't get her out of his mind. But 'Iwa wants nothing to do with Dane until he offers to help protect her beloved forest and waterfall. Always on the hunt for the ultimate ride, Dane suddenly glimpses something even greater.
 
In this thunderous love story, we travel deep into the Maui rainforest and hop across the globe from Hawai'i to California to Portugal, chasing waves the size of nine-story buildings -- where the unthinkable is always just one breath away.
 
This was my first book by Sara Ackerman, but it won't be the last. She immediately drew me in with her opening description of Dane waiting for and riding the big wave at Peʻahi, one of the islands' most incredible surfing spots. I could feel Dane's excitement at the wave's strength and his respect for the ocean.  It gave an excellent first impression of his identity and what drives him.
 
'Iwa is a field biologist, born and raised on the island. Her job is to track and protect the flora and fauna of the island. That also includes going up against a developer of an "eco-resort," which is anything but that. Her love and passion for the land leaped off the page. Spending time in the forest also brings back memories of her time with her late mother.
 
Dane and 'Iwa meet when Dane and the other surfers come into 'Iwa's dad's restaurant. They are immediately drawn to each other, but 'Iwa has a rule of no surfers and no off-islanders, having been burned in previous relationships. Dane is persistent in wanting to get to know 'Iwa better and finds a way by appealing to her love of nature.
 
I enjoyed seeing the slow build of Dane and 'Iwa's relationship. 'Iwa is wary of getting involved with another surfer whose goal is always the next big wave. But there is more to Dane than just the thrill, and I loved seeing them connect through their love of nature. There were some terrific scenes of them showing each other what was unique about each of their lives. Dane's appreciation of 'Iwa's work and his support of her efforts to protect the land went a long way toward softening her initial wariness. I especially enjoyed the scene at the waterfall. As a surfer herself, 'Iwa has a deeper understanding of Dane's fascination, almost obsession, with searching out the biggest waves. I enjoyed watching her support him, from Maui to California to Portugal.
 
However, some obstacles must be overcome to have a chance at a future together. A surfing event that goes wrong strains their relationship by stirring up insecurities on both sides. Dane and 'Iwa need to deal with their pasts before moving forward. Both journeys were intensely emotional, and I loved the realistic way they were depicted. The ending was terrific, and I loved seeing how it all worked out.
 
The secondary characters were fantastic. Dane's surfing friends, Kama, Yeti, and Hope, played significant roles in the story, from surfing to giving advice Dane didn't always appreciate. 'Iwa's friend Winston was a big part of her life, from being her musical partner to another warrior in the fight against unwanted development. However, the most important secondary character is Mother Nature herself. The vivid descriptions of the oceans as Dane and the others surfed made me feel as though I was there. The depth of the author's love for Hawaii was evident in the descriptions of the forests and animals. Seeing a rare endangered bird made my heart beat faster, just as it did for 'Iwa.

The surfing scenes and the background were fascinating to read about. I looked up surfing big waves at Peʻahi and Navare on youtube and gained a deeper appreciation for Dane's abilities.