Amish Witness To Murder - Dana R. Lynn (LIS #1108 - June 2024)

Series: Amish Country Justice (Book 18)
 
To identify her father's killer…
she must stay alive
 
After finding her family's barn in flames and witnessing her father's murder, Beth Troyer becomes the killer's next target. She narrowly escapes death when the murderer turns on her, but now she's left temporarily blind. She'll have to rely on former family friend Gideon Bender to keep her safe until her eyesight returns. But with a killer who'll stop at nothing to find her, staying alive might just be impossible…
 
A fast-paced story that kept me turning the pages from start to finish. Beth returned home after some errands to find the barn on fire and her father locked in a struggle with an unknown assailant. She watched in horror as the man pulled a gun and shot her father, then turned his attention to her. Only the arrival of the fire department saved her life, but his attack left her temporarily blind. One of the volunteer firefighters found her and her father.......
 
Gideon is a former family friend. He and Beth were good friends until her sister set her sights on him. After Miriam's betrayal, Gideon cut himself off from Beth and her father. Now, he realizes what a mistake that was and regrets that he will never be able to make amends to the man who treated him like a son. He is determined to do everything he can to protect Beth and help bring the killer to justice.
 
I ached for Beth. From watching her father get murdered to being dependent on someone else for everything, it was hard for someone as independent and self-sufficient as she was. Harder still was being dependent on Gideon after the way he abandoned their friendship. Her reluctance to trust him was understandable. Gideon is determined to win back her trust and quickly realizes that Beth has always held his heart. It takes some time for Beth to come around and trust him with her heart again. I liked the ending and how she waited to be sure her feelings weren't affected by the danger they experienced.
 
The suspense of the story was terrific. Beth's fear was intense, but so was her determination to catch the murderer. The twists and turns involved in staying one step ahead of the killer's intention to eliminate the only witness to his crime kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. The intensity increased with every attempt the killer made as he became more desperate to stop Beth from identifying him. Though I knew it would work out in the end, there were times when I wasn't sure how they would survive.
 
I enjoyed seeing characters from previous books in the series. Gideon's police officer brother-in-law, Steve, played an essential role in this book. I also enjoyed seeing Micah, Zeke, and Isaiah again and catching up on their lives. Now that we are done with the Bender family, I can't wait to see what the author has next! 

The Lyon's Gambit - Ruth A. Casie (Dragonblade Pub - May 2024)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 56)
 
In a world bound by rules, love becomes the ultimate gambit.
 
In the glittering world of London, where society dictates everything, Nathaniel, Marquess of St. John, learned the hard way that playing by those rules doesn't always guarantee a happy ending. Jilted by a woman chosen for him by his father, Nathaniel swore off marriage and embraced the life of a steadfast bachelor.
 
Louise Hartfield is a talented seamstress with a disdain for the ton's rigid expectations. Trapped by her mother's antiquated insistence that as the elder daughter she must wed before her younger sister, Louise scoffs at the idea of conforming to such a preposterous rule.
 
When Nathaniel and his friends bet on whether love can transcend class, they turn to Mrs. Dove-Lyon, whose Lyon’s Den hosts their daring experiment. As Nathaniel and Louise navigate society’s expectations, they find themselves drawn together in a quest for true love.
 
Will they defy tradition or succumb to its demands? In this high-stakes gamble for love, who will emerge victorious?
 
Good book with an unusual premise. Nathaniel, Marquess of St. John, believes that people can connect honestly if they can meet without class expectations. He had a bad experience from following society's rules and is determined to do things his own way. His friends aren't convinced that a successful relationship is possible outside society's boundaries. They bet on whether it can be done.
 
Nathaniel is a family connection of Mrs. Dove-Lyon and asks her for help setting up the experiment. She recruits Louise, a seamstress who works with the modiste she uses. Louise also has no use for most of society's rules. Her old-fashioned mother insists that Louise marry before her younger sister, something she has no interest in doing. Louise is intrigued by the experiment and agrees to participate. Neither she nor Nathaniel know anything about the other's background.
 
I enjoyed the experiment's process. Nathaniel and Louise were paired for four challenges to see how they interacted with others who had no idea who they were. The situations were interesting. I especially enjoyed the gallery visit and seeing how Nathaniel and Louise interpreted the various pieces of art. They were very compatible in attitudes and personality, and feelings didn't take long to develop between them.
 
Though neither knows the other's social status, Louise suspects Nathaniel is well above her, so she doesn't allow herself to hope for anything more than friendship. On the other hand, Nathaniel knows how he feels about Louise and will let nothing come between them. I loved seeing confidence in their love overcome fears despite knowing the challenges that face them. Things become complicated when a woman from Nathaniel's past appears and makes her intentions known. Assistance comes from a surprising source, and that scene made me laugh out loud. The ending was terrific. I hope to see Nathaniel and Louise appear in future books.
 
I liked Nathaniel's cousin Richard and would love to see him get his own story. I also like Louise's sister, Christina. I think it would be fun to see a match between them.

What Ales the Earl - Sally MacKenzie (Zebra - Aug 2018)

Series: Widow's Brew (Book 1)
 
Scandal does not define the “fallen” ladies of Puddledon Manor's Benevolent Home. Instead, it's a recipe for an intoxicating new future as the women combine their talents -- to operate their own brewery and alehouse...
 
When Penelope Barnes arrived at the Home with her young daughter, she discovered a knack for horticulture -- and for cultivating the hops needed to produce a superlative pint. She put her scandalous affair with Harry Graham firmly in the past, along with the wrenching pain she felt when he went off to war. After all, she'd always known a farmer's daughter had no future with an earl's son. Now she has the pleasant memory of their passion, and she has little Harriet, for whom she would do anything -- even marry a boring country vicar...
 
Harry went off to fight for the Crown unaware that his delightful interlude with his childhood friend had permanent consequences. Now he's back in England, catapulted into the title by his brother's untimely death. He sorely misses his former life of unfettered adventure, so when he has reason to explore Little Puddledon, he jumps at the chance. But what he finds there is something -- and someone -- he never knew he'd lost, and a once forbidden love whose time has come, if only he can persuade Pen he's home to stay...
 
Good second chance love story. Pen and Harry were childhood friends who became lovers during one memorable summer. But at seventeen and eighteen, neither gave any thought to the possible consequences of their actions. Harry went off to war, and Pen discovered she was pregnant. She never expected an earl's son to marry a farmer's daughter, so she and her aunt devised a fictional husband to protect Pen's reputation. After her aunt's death, Pen and little Harriet ended up at the Benevolent Home. Pen's farming background came in handy as she took over growing the hops for the Home's signature product, the Widow's Brew ale. Ten years later, she realizes she needs a better way to keep her secret and protect Harriet. With a dearth of eligible men in the village, she settles on the vicar as her best bet for a husband. But when a newcomer to the Home spills her secret, the vicar turns out to be a wolf in sheep's clothing, and Pen finds herself in a precarious situation. Rescue comes from an unexpected source.
 
Harry is called home after ten years in the British army when his older brother dies. Harry never expected to become the earl and is overwhelmed by the changes in his life. One of those changes is the need to marry and have an heir. After settling on Lady Susan, he is called away to help a friend before he can propose. He's shocked to encounter Pen and discover that he has a daughter. He's happy to see Pen and wants to get to know Harriet.
 
I enjoyed seeing the rekindling of the relationship between Harry and Pen. The chemistry between them is even stronger than before, and neither can resist the pull. Both are cognizant of the class divide between them. Harry is ready to make Pen his mistress and move her and Harriet close to him, but Pen won't put Harriet in that situation. I loved that Pen had the strength and resolve to stand up against a situation that would not be good for them. I was disappointed in Harry and his inability to see the wrongness of his plan, though it is typical of his class and time. It isn't until an unexpected confrontation that he realizes he needs to use his heart rather than his head to make the right decision for everyone. All he has to do is convince Pen, which will be challenging. I loved her surprise visitor and the advice she received.
 
There were some terrific scenes between Harry and Pen outside of their chemistry. Their connection is still strong, and the friendship they shared in the past was quickly revived. I liked Harry's protectiveness and cheered at his confrontation with the vicar. Harry's joy at learning that he has a daughter was sweet, and I loved his interactions with Harriet. I also liked Pen's friends, Jo and Caro. They are terrific support for Pen as she deals with everything that happens. I look forward to reading their stories.

Beauty and the Playboy Prince - Justine Lewis (HR #4890 - Feb 2024)

Series: If the Fairy Tale Fits (Book 4)

SOMETHING THERE THAT WASN'T THERE BEFORE?

Simone's quiet life in her Parisian bookshop is upended when best friend, Prince Edouard, arrives on her doorstep to hide from a royal scandal! Despite her embarrassing teenage crush on the playboy prince, she's always seen the man beneath his facade. Trapped together until the storm blows over, their friendship unexpectedly gives way to indescribable passion! Simone knows it's only temporary, but can't help dreaming of a happy-ever-after...
 
This was a nice friends-to-lovers story with the added twist that one of them is royalty. Simone and Edouard grew up together in the tiny kingdom of Florena as the only two children in the palace. Edouard is a prince and the heir to the throne, while Simone is the daughter of the palace chef. They were inseparable as children, but they rarely see each other as adults. Edouard is busy with his royal duties, and Simone moved to Paris, where she runs a bookstore.
 
Simone is shocked when Edouard appears on her doorstep, looking for a place to hide from a family scandal. Simone thought she was long past her teenage crush on him until the forced proximity brought those feelings back to life. Meanwhile, Edouard notices that his best buddy has grown into a beautiful woman, and spending time with her raises feelings he doesn't want after watching his parents' marriage. But when he suddenly becomes king, Edouard desperately wants Simone to return to Florena with him. She's the only one who sees the real him behind the royal façade.
 
Simone is reluctant because she knows she needs to protect her heart, but she goes anyway. I liked seeing Simone give Edouard the support he needed but ached for her as her feelings for him grew stronger. She knows that the gap between them is too wide for anything to come of it. She also has a heartbreaking incident in her past that affects how she looks at life in the royal spotlight. I liked Edouard's appreciation for everything Simone does for him. He is oblivious to her feelings for him for most of the book. It isn't until his feelings for her change that he believes she cares for him, too. Both must face their fears before they can hope to find happiness together.

The Gift - Julie Garwood (Pocket - Jan 1991)

Series: Crown's Spies (Book 3)
 
England, 1816. A child bride, Lady Sara Winchester had grown into a winsome beauty, joyfully anticipating the day when her husband, Lord Nathanial Clayton, Marquess of St. James, would return to claim her at last. Charmingly innocent, she dismissed the ancient feud that divided her and Nathan's families... and she was totally unaware of his past exploits as the notorious pirate, Pagan. The man who now stood before her was perplexing, arrogant and powerfully handsome... a warrior-gentleman whose gentle touch aroused her to the wildest, deepest pleasures of love...
 
Nathan had never bared his soul to any woman, but he was soon beguiled and exasperated by Sara's sweet, defiant ways. Aboard his ship, The Seahawk, she was brave, imperious and determined to win his heart completely... yet upon their return to England, her love would be sorely tested as a most desperate conspiracy sundered them from one another. Now as their future trembled in the balance, they would discover the true destiny of their passion... for all time!
 
It has been thirty years since I last read this book, but it was just as much fun as I remembered. The story opens with a unique twist - King George III facilitates a marriage between two feuding families to end the conflict. The prize is a fortune in cash and a piece of disputed land when the marriage is consummated, and an heir is born. The groom is Nathan, Marquess of St. James, and the bride is Lady Sara Winchester. The twist - Nathan is fourteen and Sara is four. Obviously, consummation will have to wait.
 
Fourteen years later, Nathan is ready to bite the bullet and claim his bride. He's not enthusiastic about it but needs the cash to help establish the shipping company he and his friend Colin formed. There's a fun scene between him and Colin as they discuss Nathan's plan to retrieve his bride. Meanwhile, Sara is impatiently waiting for Nathan to come for her. Her life with her family has been miserable, and now she needs help to rescue her aunt. Letters to Nathan have gone unanswered, so she takes matters into her own hands.
 
Sara is something of a ditz. She is typical of the young ladies of the period - overprotected, undereducated, and utterly naïve about the real world. The opening scene of her planned rescue shows her oblivious to the danger around her. I laughed out loud as I watched her actions, completely understanding Nathan's disbelief as he followed her. This is just the beginning. I liked Nathan's protectiveness as he followed her, rescued her, and got her aboard his ship. The shipboard scenes with Sara were frequently hilarious as she tried to win over the crew, whom she called her staff, with often disastrous results.
 
Watching this pair's relationship develop had me laughing out loud throughout the book. Nathan, a man of his time, is arrogant, certain of his place in the world, and convinced that he knows best. He has no intention of falling in love, as women are not to be trusted. Sara, on the other hand, is bluntly honest in expressing her thoughts and feelings. She tells Nathan she is everything he could possibly want in a wife. She lets him know when she is angry or disappointed in him. She also tells him that she loves him and gets frustrated when he doesn't reciprocate. I enjoyed watching Sara wriggle her way into his heart with him all the way. His 'aha' moment was great, and I loved watching him try to fix his mistakes. His method of doing so was a fantastic ending to the book.
 
There is also tension because of the underhanded actions of Sara's father and uncle. Nathan's protectiveness toward Sara was needed to counteract their actions. Things became complicated when a lie ran up against Nathan's distrust of women, which caused him to make a stupid mistake. Sara's love for Nathan never faltered, though she questioned her belief about his feelings for her. There's a terrific scene where her Nathan-instilled confidence enabled her to come out on top of a confrontation with her uncle. I laughed out loud at the men's reactions. The resolution of that problem was excellent. 

 

Smoky Mountains Graveyard - Lena Diaz (HI #2213 - May 2024)

Series: Tennessee Cold Case (Book 5)
 
Six bodies. No suspect.
And a serial killer on the loose.
 
Working a cold case, investigators Faith Lancaster and Asher Whitfield unearth a secret burial ground. And when a young woman goes missing, it's clear that the same person is to blame. Then he turns his rage on Faith. Now, as they race to protect others in danger, she is torn between keeping things professional and resisting the attraction she and Asher share.
 
Excellent book that sucked me in from the first page and kept me hooked to the end. Faith and Asher are partners at Unfinished Business, which investigates cold cases. They have been partners for two years and best friends for most of that time.
 
The pair have been working to find the body and killer of a young woman who disappeared five years earlier. As the book opens, they believe that they have discovered where the killer buried her. They didn't expect to find six bodies in that location and are suddenly looking at a serial killer situation. Matters become complicated when the state investigators take over and kick them off the case. Faith and Asher, with the encouragement of their boss, continue investigating on their own, determined to stop the killer before he strikes again.
 
The suspense of this story was intense. When their victim's sister is also taken, Asher and Faith suspect the same person. I was on the edge of my seat as they threw themselves into finding the girl before it was too late. I was intrigued by their methods of identifying the killer. The twists and turns of their investigation kept me reading long past my bedtime. The final confrontation had an unexpected and terrifying complication that kept me glued to the pages until it was over.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Faith and Asher. It is evident from the start that Asher is in love with Faith. He wants more, but Faith is determined to keep him in the friend zone. Faith ignores the signs as she doesn't want to risk losing his friendship if something goes wrong. But when Asher is injured during their investigation, she realizes the depth of her feelings for him. There were some great scenes as they worked their way through them while maintaining their working relationship. I loved the ending, especially the reactions of their coworkers.

A Dance with Her Forbidden Officer - Lauri Robinson (HH #1783 - Mar 2024)

Nurse Wendy Smith promised her mother she'd see the world, starting with beautiful Hawaii. Her promise to herself -- to never depend on a man -- is harder to keep when Navy Officer K.T. McAllister jitterbugs into her life. Then Pearl Harbor is attacked and, as Wendy nurses injured K.T., she learns he too has promises to people back home. Yet as K.T. grows stronger, so do her feelings, and her longing for the forbidden…?
 
This is a terrific story in an unusual setting for a Harlequin Historical. In a line mainly set in the Regency or Medieval eras, this book takes place in 20th-century Hawaii during the attack on Pearl Harbor. I have lived in Hawaii and visited the Arizona Memorial, so this character-centered look at the attack and its aftermath was fascinating. I especially appreciate the author's attention to the small details that made the story come alive.
 
Wendy is a young woman from Nebraska with a spirited personality. She has a craving for adventure and promised her mother she would see the world. Becoming a Red Cross nurse's aide was her first step, followed by accepting a post in Hawaii. Though she is in a tropical paradise surrounded by men, Wendy plans to avoid romantic entanglements that could tie her down or affect her independence. She is determined to live her life to the fullest.
 
KT is an underwater welder with the Navy. He's often amazed that a guy from land-locked Oklahoma has ended up in tropical Hawaii. KT is a serious man with a well-developed sense of honor. He has a girl back home with expectations of a future together, so he avoids any opportunities for impropriety.
 
Wendy and KT meet on December 6 at a dance for the people stationed at Pearl Harbor. Wendy's excitement is evident in her enthusiasm for dancing, though she's a little frustrated that no one matches her enthusiasm. A handsome sailor draws her attention, but he doesn't seem interested, so she dances with others. Wendy's exuberance attracts KT's attention. He notices her talent for dancing and her apparent disappointment in her partners. He loves to dance but wouldn't feel proper dancing with anyone other than his Betty. I loved when they encountered each other. Their banter was fun, and I loved how Wendy challenged him to dance with her. Their connection was immediate, and they danced together as if they'd been partners for years, to the point where they won an impromptu dance competition. They parted at the end, not expecting to see each other again.
 
A few hours later came the attack by the Japanese. The descriptions of the attack from the viewpoints of KT and Wendy were vivid enough that I could almost smell the smoke and hear the explosions. Their experiences in the aftermath were realistic and easy to visualize.
 
Wendy never expected to end up with KT as one of her patients. She had thought of him often during the hours since the attack and hoped for his safety, so it was a shock to find him at the hospital. KT was severely burned while using his diving skills to rescue trapped sailors. His injuries require frequent attention, and the head nurse has requested her skills. 

As the days go on, Wendy and KT's connection grows deeper as they spend many hours together. I enjoyed watching their friendship develop and could see them fighting the deeper feelings that were building. There were some terrific scenes of them together, from his time in the hospital to after he was released.
 
But Wendy is hiding a secret from KT. It began as a simple desire to save him from more pain during his recovery but went on too long. She felt guilty about not confessing but couldn't bring herself to do anything about it. Unsurprisingly, it eventually came back to bite her, creating a rift between her and KT. Each has decisions to make when unexpected career opportunities are offered. I loved the advice Wendy received from her mentor and its effect on her perception of her life. KT also had the chance to reevaluate his plans after an unexpected conversation.
 
I loved the ending and seeing how Wendy and KT found their way back to each other. Their reunion was sweet, and their future looks bright.

It Started with a Secret - Tif Marcelo (HSE #3046 - May 2024)

Series: Spirit of the Shenandoah (Book 1)
 
When one unforgettable night…
Leads to a whole new life…
 
When Jared Sotheby arrives in Peak, Virginia, to search for his identity -- and his Filipino roots -- he doesn't anticipate an instant connection with a stunning woman he meets on his first night in town. And he certainly doesn't expect her to be managing the B & B owned by the biological family he's searching for! 
 
One passionate night aside, Matilda Matthews needs a cook, and Jared, a chef, needs a way in. She'll give him the job if he keeps his identity a secret -- for now. Their subterfuge quickly grows complicated as Jared yearns for a connection -- not only with his family, but also with the once-bitten Matilda. But first he'll have to convince her to let a younger man into her heart… 
 
Overall, this was a good book. Jared is the result of a one-night stand; his father never knew about him. Jared wondered about him but didn't have much interest in connecting with him until he had a crisis of identity. Jared is a chef, and devastating criticism of his ethnic cooking sent him looking for his Filipino roots. He arrives in his family's town with no plan of action. The first night, he connects with a beautiful woman.
 
Matilda loves her job managing the B & B. The owner gave her a job and a chance after Matilda left an unhappy marriage. Her organizational skills are unparalleled, and she has a finger on every pulse of the business.
 
Jared chickens out of confessing who he is when he arrives in Peak. Instead, he takes a job as a fill-in chef at the family B & B, using the time to get to know his father's family. He connects easily with his half-sisters and is sweet with his nephew. He feels guilty about keeping his identity secret but can't decide the best way/time to come clean.
 
Meanwhile, he and Matilda continue spending time together. Matilda is wary of getting involved after losing herself in her marriage. She doesn't want to risk the same thing happening again. She tends to keep tight control of her emotions, feeling that is her only way to protect herself. She is also a bit of a control freak when running the B & B. She, too, begins to feel guilty about keeping Jared's secret and the effect it could have on her relationship with the family.
 
I liked the development of the relationship between Jared and Matilda. Jared is upfront about his interest in her. Matilda is more hesitant, as she is bothered by the ten-year age difference between them. I liked seeing Jared and Matilda spend time together and discover their compatibility. But when the secret comes out, the reactions are all over the place, and Matilda and Jared must deal with the fallout. I ached for them all as everyone came to terms with the revelations. The ending was emotional and well done, and the epilogue was sweet.

Defender After Dark - Charlene Parris (HRS #2278 - May 2024)

Series: Night Guardians (Book 2)
 
A Nordic beauty…
Might hold the key to his case!
 
When a ruthless CEO is assaulted at his own construction site late at night, Detective Mark Hawthorne is determined to catch the person responsible. He finds a welcome distraction from the case in captivating bakery owner Britt Gronlund, who rebuffed the CEO's threat to take over her business. But when the CEO winds up dead, Mark needs to find out who killed him. Can he defend Britt from the accusations that she is behind the murder? And can the two of them find the real killer?
 
This was an action and drama-filled mystery with a bit of romance to lighten the mood. The story opens with Mark being called to investigate an assault. A local businessman with a ruthless reputation was attacked and left for dead. The victim is disliked by many people, which creates a plethora of possible suspects. The case became more urgent when the victim was later murdered. The twists and turns of the investigation kept me intrigued, and trying to figure out the killer kept me guessing. The shoe clue was fascinating. Complications arose when the woman Mark was dating became both a victim and a suspect. The suspense intensified as Mark and Britt closed in on identifying the killer. The final confrontation was a shock and kept me glued to the pages until it was over.
 
I enjoyed watching Mark and Britt's relationship develop. They first saw each other the night of the assault, as Britt's bakery is across the street from the scene of the crime. They didn't speak, but their connection was lust at first sight. They met officially a short time later when Mark came to question the employees about whether they'd seen anything. There was no hesitation on either side about getting to know each other, though neither expected their feelings to develop so quickly. I liked how Britt was sensitive to Mark's stress during the investigation and how she helped him balance his work and life. Mark is fascinated by Britt, and I loved seeing how he treated her. He is also very protective of her when she becomes the victim of vandals. Their relationship hits a bump when Britt becomes a suspect in the murder, though that is resolved quickly. I liked the ending and hope to see more of them in future books.

Island Refuge - Regan Black (Kindle Scribe - Feb 2024)

Series: Brookwell Island (Book 2)
 
Have old secrets followed her home?
 
Lila Copeland seized her chance for a fresh start and never looked back. After years of school and training, she’s coming home to put her stamp on the family bakery.
 
Unfortunately, trouble follows...in the form of Travis Upton. The security expert isn't just the man she's been crushing on for months, he's the man accusing her of a major jewelry heist.
 
When Travis’s investigation reveals a serious threat to the gorgeous baker, the easiest way to protect her is to pose as her doting boyfriend.
 
Their talk of love may only be white lies, but the kisses are as real as the danger closing in.
 
As the thief applies more pressure, putting the people and town she loves in the crossfire, Lila will do whatever it takes to help Travis close his case. Even confess her ugly secrets.
 
Travis, undaunted by her past, is determined to give the woman who holds his heart the safe haven she needs and the happy future she deserves.
 
It was a good book that kept me involved from start to finish. Lila was mostly raised by her grandparents and went on to become an accomplished chef. After spending time as a chef for a celebrity couple, Lila is headed home to work in the family bakery. The night before she leaves the yacht to go home, Lila stumbles across a cache of stolen jewelry. Before she can report it to Travis, the yacht's security expert, he appears at her office door with suspicion in his eyes.
 
Travis is a security expert with the Guardian Agency. He had just received notification of the theft before he appeared at Lila's office and found her with the stolen goods. It looks terrible, but his gut tells him she isn't the thief. He's worried that she might be the victim of a setup, so he follows her home.
 
It quickly becomes evident that Lila is in danger. Travis feels guilty that he may have put a target on her back, but he is determined to keep her safe. Lila is shocked when he suddenly appears and is stunned when he claims to be her boyfriend. I loved how she jumped into the scenario and actively participated in the investigation. I was glued to the pages as the threats against Lila intensified. Someone is determined to retrieve those jewels from her and they don't care how they do it. The twists and turns kept me turning the pages long into the night. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that included a blast from Lila's past.
 
I enjoyed watching Travis and Lila's relationship develop. Each had been crushing on the other while on the yacht, but neither did anything about it. Lila was headed home, and Travis was a man who had never stayed in one place long. Pretending to be a couple allows them to spend time together and get to know each other. It doesn't take long for the pretend kisses to turn real and thoughts to turn to the future. The ending was terrific. I especially enjoyed seeing Travis convince Lila of his feelings.
 
The secondary characters were fantastic. I loved Lila's feisty grandmother. It was easy to see her influence on Lila and their deep love for each other. I laughed at her comments to Travis. I also enjoyed seeing characters from other books and look forward to reading more of the Guardian Agency books. 

Secretly Married to a Prince - Ally Blake (HR #4899 - May 2024)

Series: One Year to Wed (Book 1)
 
THEIR REUNION WITH A ROYAL TWIST… 
 
To claim her inheritance, Matilda Waverly must be wed within the year. But Matilda has a secret: she's already married! She hasn't seen Henri since she fled their wedding night, so tracking him down is essential­ -- but exciting and terrifying in equal measure. Especially when she learns Henri is actually a prince! And the undeniable spark between them has never gone away…
 
Matilda and her three sisters get an unwelcome surprise when their father dies. To inherit his vast Australian estate, each daughter must be married within a year of his death; otherwise, it will go to their family rival. None of the women are currently involved in romantic relationships. Complicating matters, Matilda is technically already married, though she has no idea where her husband is.
 
The backstory of Matilda's marriage was interesting and a bit sad. She fell in love with a young man she met while traveling, and they married without sharing any real information about themselves. When she learned of her mother's illness, she rushed home, leaving Henri behind and hoping he'd follow. He never did, which broke her heart. She has since moved on with her life. But with this complication, she knows she must find him, and returning to where they met is her only option to begin her search.
 
Matilda didn't know that Henri was a prince in disguise, taking a summer off before beginning his duties. He fell for Matilda, her vivacity, and how she made him forget his troubles. When she left, he tried to put her out of his mind and moved on to take up his royal duties.
 
Their reunion was pure chance. Matilda was happy to see him again and explained her reason for seeking him out. She was shocked to find out who he was. Neither expected the sparks between them to be as strong as before. When Henri invites her to stay at the castle while they figure things out, Matilda agrees.
 
I liked Matilda. She is a mostly upbeat person with a fascinating career. She's up for the prospect of getting to know Henri. I could feel a little frustration from her at the lack of time she initially spent with him but she understood the press of his duties. I had a more challenging time with Henri. Thanks to his upbringing, he seems to be an odd combination of control freak and insecure.
 
As they spent time together, they discovered that their connection was still there. There were some sweet scenes of their activities and how Matilda fit into his life. However, Henri's issues with his past complicate his vision of Matilda becoming a permanent part of his life. He tended to project his fears onto what he thought she felt instead of talking to her about her feelings. Matilda wasn't much better about being honest about her feelings.
 
Things come to a head when they finally talk about their past. I never understood why neither went looking for the other sooner. Matilda's delay was somewhat logical because she knew so little about Henri. Henri did not have that excuse. For heaven's sake, he's a prince with plenty of resources that would make finding her reasonably straightforward, but he couldn't be bothered. The method of their separation ticked me off, but was redeemed in the end. I liked Matilda and Henri's "aha" moments, and his big moment at the end was well done. 

 

Always a Maverick - Delores Fossen (Canary Street Press - Apr 2024)

Series: Cowboy Brothers in Arms (Book 2)
 
Even a real-life hero needs a little healing sometimes…
 
Air Force test pilot Blue Donnelly has the greatest job in the world…until his F-22 crashes during a demonstration flight, leaving him with a busted body and a ton of guilt. Then horse whisperer Marin Galloway walks into his hospital room, snapping him out of self-pity with a shock of desire and some surprising news: her six-year-old ward thinks Blue is his daddy.
 
Leo isn't really Blue's son, much as the little boy wishes it. Still, he needs a father figure, and Blue is willing to help…at least until it's time to report for duty. The longer Blue spends getting closer and closer to Marin and to Leo on his family's sprawling Texas ranch, the more he questions his need to return to the sky. But when a secret is revealed, leaving his entire future uncertain, Blue must decide who he is outside the cockpit -- and whether his new dream is big enough for two co-pilots.
 
I loved this second book in a series about a family of ranchers who also serve their country. In this book, Blue Donnelly is an Air Force test pilot. Flying is all he ever wanted to do. As this book opens, Blue is in the hospital after crash-landing his jet. He is badly injured and feels guilty about the injuries received by some of the people on the ground. He's feeling pretty sorry for himself when he gets a surprise visitor.
 
Marin and her six-year-old ward were spectators at the air show. Young Leo is an avid fan of Blue and believes that Blue is his father. Marin needs Blue's help to show Leo the truth without hurting him.
 
I enjoyed Marin and Blue's first meeting. His good looks and rogueish charm stirred Marin up. Blue was blown away by Marin's beauty and stunned by the news she brought. Although Blue is not Leo's dad, I liked that he wanted to help the little boy. Marin works with abused horses, and the Donnellys had just rescued several from a neighbor, so they hired her to work with them on their ranch. This gives Marin steady work, Leo a safe and exciting place to live, and Blue needs distractions as he recovers from his injuries.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Blue and Marin. Neither was looking for anything. Marin has trust issues with men, and Blue will return to his base as soon as he is fit. As the story developed and I got to know the characters, it was easy to see how right Marin and Blue are for each other, even though the obstacles seem insurmountable. Complicating matters, Leo's real dad shows up, threatening to take Leo away from Marin. I could feel Marin's fear over what Brian would do, and I loved the support she got from Blue and the rest of the Donnellys.
 
The more time Marin and Blue spent together, the stronger the sparks between them grew. Each knew giving in to them was a bad idea, but neither had the strength or resolve to resist. Besides his growing feelings for Marin, Blue must also face uncertainty about his future. If his injuries don't heal enough to allow him to return to the life he loves, can he be happy doing anything else? I ached for Blue and the range of emotions he experienced as he faced a possibly life-changing decision. The ending was terrific.
 
I also enjoyed the Donnely family dynamics. The siblings are all stand-up characters with a deep-rooted sense of honor and family. Combining military careers with ranching is difficult, but they make it work. I liked seeing more of Egan (Heart Like a Cowboy) and his lady, Alanna. Blue's other brother, Cal, and his sister, Remi, appear in this book as their military duties allow. We also get to catch up with the elder Donnelly, who is recovering from a heart attack, and his wife, Audrey, an Air Force general. A twist involving them in the latter part of the book throws the entire family for a loop. I loved young Leo, whose hero worship of Blue was sweet.  I enjoyed seeing him wiggle his way into everyone's hearts. 

 

Danger in Big Sky Country - Kimberly van Meter (HRS #2213 - Jan 2023)

Series: Big Sky Justice (Book 1)
 
To catch a killer
…will she risk a life?
 
When a childhood friend and her family are killed on their Montana ranch, Detective Luna Griffin finds it especially gut-wrenching. To solve the case, she must work with the victim's brother, Benjamin, who'll do anything to get justice for his sister. But the by-the-book cop must bend the rules­ while not falling for the ex-Marine. Until one bullet -- and long-buried secrets -- threatens everything…
 
Terrific book that sucked me in from the first pages and kept me hooked to the end. It all started when police detective Luna did a wellness check at her childhood friend Charlotte's house, only to discover that Charlotte and her entire family had been brutally murdered. She is grief-stricken at the loss of her friend, feels guilty that they had drifted apart, and is determined to find the person guilty of the heinous crime. The last thing she needs is for Charlotte's brother, Ben, to interfere in her investigation.
 
Ben and Charlotte's childhoods were miserable, and he left town as soon as possible, rarely returning. He feels even more guilty now that there is nothing he can do to repair his relationship with his sister. All he wants is for the killer to be brought to justice, and he has no confidence that the local police are up to the job.
 
The first meeting between Ben and Luna was rough. Both are attempting to deal with their grief over Charlotte's death, and Ben's accusations of incompetence don't go over well. Luna realizes it is better to have Ben working with her than going off on his own. Neither expected or wanted the sparks of attraction that flared between them. I enjoyed how they connected over their shared grief and determination to catch the killer. They try to resist their growing feelings for each other. Luna feels guilty about being happy with her dead friend's brother. Additionally, Ben has no desire to live in Cottonwood again, and Luna's roots run deep there. There is a lot to overcome if they are going to find a way to be together.
 
The suspense of the story was great. I was glued to the pages from the discovery of the bodies to the end of the book. I felt Luna and Ben's frustration at the lack of clues. Those they did find were rife with contradictions that made it difficult to discern the truth. A twist at the end and an unexpected connection finally set Luna and Ben on the right track. A tragic confrontation and its aftermath answered some questions but left others hanging, likely to be addressed in subsequent books.
 
There is a secondary mystery happening that involves Luna and her sisters. Their biological parents died in an explosion that is now raising questions in the girls' minds. The book ended with them having no answers. I expect that this will continue to be a theme in this series.

The Wild Lavender Bookshop - Jodi Thomas (Kensington - Apr 2024)

 

Series: Someday Valley (Book 2)
 
The trees that circle Someday Valley near Honey Creek are dressed in their fall finest, providing a pretty backdrop for the local businesses -- including the little bookshop loved by schoolteacher Cora Lee Buchanan. There, under the watchful eye of owner Noah O'Brien, Cora Lee and her sister, Katherine, meet each Wednesday. Their talk mostly revolves around one subject: their father, known to everyone in town as Bear.
 
Both Cora Lee and Katherine worry about Bear Buchanan. They've no idea Bear has a secret life of his own. As for the sisters, Katherine, beautiful and self-absorbed, is in search of her third husband, while Cora Lee is in love for the first time. On warm nights, she climbs up to her building's roof to chat with Noah and listen to the melody of the water below. Yet there is more intrigue afoot in Honey Creek . . .
 
Andi Delane has arrived in town to hear the last wishes of the father she never met. She was shocked to get a letter from lawyer Jackson Landry, and she has few expectations -- of this mysterious will, or of Deputy Danny Davis who's been assigned to protect her. But fall always brings changes, and this year there will be enough to alter not just the lives of those who call Honey Creek home, but the future of Someday Valley itself . . .
 
Good story about six people who become three couples whose lives intersect when they come together to help one of their own. Each character is unique, with their quirks, and I enjoyed seeing their changes and journeys.
 
Noah is a relative newcomer to Someday Valley. A New York native, he left a successful business career and an overbearing family to start a bookstore in the small town. Noah is an observer of human nature rather than a participant. He listens to his customers' stories, dreams, and regrets while trying to decide what he wants from his life. But for now, his life revolves around his bookstore and upstairs apartment.
 
One of his customers is Cora Lee, the quiet elementary school teacher who lives in the other apartment above the shops. She is the daughter of Noah's landlord, Bear Buchanan, and sister to Katherine, her brash older sister.
 
Noah and Cora Lee have been drawn to each other for a long time but only did something about it after an unexpected rooftop encounter. I loved Noah's sensitivity to Cora Lee's shyness and how he did everything possible to make her feel safe with him. I liked how Cora Lee saw Noah for the intelligent and sensitive man that he was. As they got to know each other and explored their growing feelings, each opened up about their dreams. I loved how Cora Lee gave him the support and confidence he needed to pursue his dream. Their time together was sweet.
 
Bear is the local fix-it guy. He mostly keeps to himself. He works on his farm when he isn't working in his repair shop. He also has a secret life that no one is aware of. He has had an ongoing relationship with his neighbor, Eliza, for many years. He wants more, but Eliza is reluctant to change a relationship that has worked for so long. Eliza has an intriguing backstory, and I was fascinated by the stories she told. I liked Bear's sensitivity to Eliza's needs and that he never gave up on his hopes for their future.
 
Andi Delane's trip to Someday Valley has two purposes. On the surface, she is there to meet the two half-brothers she didn't know she had. Her biological father was not part of her life, and she knew nothing of their existence until after his death. She has always wanted a sibling and is excited and nervous about meeting them. The other reason is darker. Andi is an undercover detective in Dallas and has the misfortune of being identified by a pretty nasty criminal. She needs to go into hiding until she is called as a witness in his trial because there is a contract out on her life. Andi is independent and resents the need for protection. She is especially ticked when she checks in with the sheriff, and he sets one of his deputies to tail her and watch over her.
 
Dan is intrigued by Andi from the moment he gives her a speeding ticket on her way into town. He's pretty happy to follow Andi around, even though she does her best to make his job harder. I loved their interactions over the first few days as it became apparent that Andi underestimated Dan's abilities. I liked it when she stopped playing stupid games and started working with him. Their fake relationship ruse gave her the cover she needed for being in town but also gave Dan an excuse to spend more time with her. Having been burned once in love, he never expected to fall for someone else.
 
Things get complicated when those who are after Andi come looking for her. She isn't used to having someone have her back and isn't sure how to handle Dan's protectiveness. It takes a little while to find the balance that satisfies their needs. The intensity increases as the bad guys close in, and Dan and Andi devise a plan to keep her safe and alive. It was interesting to see how the three couples worked together to make it happen. The build-up and final confrontation kept me turning the pages until it was over. All that was left was the question of where their relationship was headed. I loved the epilogue and seeing each couple's decisions about their futures. 

 

A Maverick's Holiday Homecoming - Brenda Harlen (HSE #3019 - Dec 2023)

Series: Montana Mavericks: Lassoing Love (Book 6)
 
The only gift he ever wanted
 
Charlotte Taylor famously fled Bronco twenty years ago, leaving her high school sweetheart at the altar. Now rancher Billy Abernathy is newly divorced, raising three kids -- and not ready to trust his heart to anyone, much less the woman who broke it. Never mind the memories swirling around them like a cozy Christmas sweater, or the bonds that still exist, making them realize that there's unfinished business between them…
 
Good second chance story. Charlotte and Billy were lifelong friends and high school sweethearts twenty years earlier. When she got pregnant, they were told they would marry, and the wedding was scheduled for two days after graduation. But when Charlotte lost the baby, no one would listen when she insisted she wasn't ready to get married. Finally, with the church packed and Billy waiting at the altar, she ran. She has returned to Bronco to meet her newborn niece and spend the holidays with her family. Meeting Billy again was never in her plan.
 
Billy was heartbroken when Charlotte left him at the altar, but a few years later, he moved on. Now, he is the newly divorced father of three teenagers with no plans to get involved in another relationship. He has accepted that he shares some of the blame for his marriage's failure, but that doesn't make it hurt any less.
 
Billy and Charlotte encountered each other on the high school career day. I liked how Charlotte made a point of apologizing for the past and that both agreed the past was past. They decide to rekindle their friendship, never expecting to discover that their love for each other has never died. I enjoyed the development of their relationship as they got to know each other as adults. But with Charlotte due to return to Florida after the new year, both are reluctant to allow themselves to have deeper feelings. But the heart wants what it wants and each must decide if the chance of a future together is worth the risk. There are some obstacles - their families' attitudes, his kids' feelings, and Charlotte's job - they need to overcome.  I loved the ending, and Billy's big moment in the barn was terrific.

Hotshot Hero for the Holidays - Lisa Childs (HRS #2257 - Dec 2023)

Series: Hotshot Heroes (Book 9)
 
Is a fake holiday relationship…
The perfect bait for a killer?
 
When firefighter Trent Miles responds to a fire just weeks before Christmas, he can't believe it's his own house -- and there's a body inside. Detective Heather Bolton has a plan to smoke out the killer, but it's risky. Not only does it put both Heather and Trent in the crosshairs of a murderer, but it means fanning the flames of an incendiary chemistry that threatens to consume them…
 
This was a fantastic, fast-paced, and action-packed story. Trent arrived home from his latest hotshot mission and immediately responded to a fire call. He was shocked to discover that the house on fire was his and that there was a dead body inside. Complicating matters, he had just received a letter threatening harm to someone he cares about. Trent is on edge because the hotshot crew has been dealing with sabotage and other attacks. He is also angry at his sister Brittney, a journalist, who caused problems with one of his teammates.
 
Heather is the detective assigned to identifying the body and investigating the death. She is determined to solve the case and prove her naysayers wrong. Though initially suspicious of Trent, she soon clears him. Heather and Trent pretend to be a couple to draw out the threat and are a little too successful.
 
I loved following the investigation. The twists and turns and the escalating attacks on Heather and Trent kept me glued to the pages long into the night. By the time the final confrontation occurred, I could not put it down until I finished. The conclusion was partially a surprise, as I suspected one connection but not another.
 
I enjoyed the developing relationship between Trent and Heather. It started a little rough as Heather initially suspected him of the fire, the murder, or both. Neither expected the sparks of attraction that flared between them despite that suspicion. Both Trent and Heather are protectors, and each worries about the other's safety. They enter a fake relationship to draw out the attacker and find that it quickly feels real. Thrown together by their deception and the investigation, neither expects the depth of the connection they feel. One of the things I liked best was that both respect and admire the other's capabilities. But it takes nearly losing each other to admit the depth of their feelings.
 
The search for the identity of the saboteur plaguing the hotshots is ongoing. With each book, it becomes more likely that one of the hotshots is behind the attacks. I'm looking forward to the next books and finding out more about who and why. 

 

A Puppy on the 34th Ward - Juliette Hyland (HMED #1352 - Nov 2023)

Series: Boston Christmas Miracles (Book 2)
 
Can one man -- and a pup…restore her faith in love?
 
Jilted on her honeymoon, Bryn Bedford is forgoing men for woman's best friend: her therapy dog, Honey. Healing little patients on Ward 34 is the distraction she needs this Christmas. Gorgeous new pediatrician Nick Walker is not! But Nick playing Santa melts her frozen heart. Honey clearly trusts Nick… Will Bryn ever believe he's the real deal?
 
Terrific, emotional story. Bryn is a therapist at her Boston hospital. She takes her therapy dog, Honey, around the children's ward, where she cheers up the young patients. Bryn can use all the cheer she can get as she recovers from her husband leaving her two days after their marriage.
 
Nick is the new pediatrician on staff. Nick grew up in a military family, accustomed to moving every two years. As an adult, he has continued to move frequently, unable to settle in one place.
 
Both Nick and Bryn broke my heart. Bryn grew up with an absent father and a mother who would do anything to get the man to stay with them. Early in life, Bryn learned how to not rock the boat and to avoid arguments. She is adept at reading emotions, which comes in handy in her therapy work. Her ex was selfish, only interested in appearances and how things affected him.
 
Nick's parents were career-focused. He spent much of his time growing up alone, even amid his family. He was expected to follow in his father's footsteps like his siblings did. When he forged his own path, he felt like an outsider in his own family. He doesn't form close connections with anyone.
 
Bryn and Nick met on his first day at the hospital, where he went from "dogs don't belong in a hospital" to understanding Honey's importance with just a few observed interactions. Neither he nor Bryn expected the instant connection they felt. Each is determined to protect their hearts, so they begin their acquaintance as friends. Bryn will introduce him to Boston life, and Nick will help Bryn get back into the nursing career she gave up after her divorce. I loved watching them get to know each other. Nick finds himself in the unusual position of wanting to spend time with Bryn. Her big heart draws him in and makes him think about not moving on.
 
Bryn is equally drawn to Nick. His easy ways with his little patients win her heart. As she learns more about his background, her heart hurts for his estrangement from his family. I loved seeing her share her holiday spirit with him. Knowing that he plans to leave after a certain period, she tries to keep her heart safe, but it doesn't take long for her to fall for him.
 
Both have baggage that keeps them from opening their hearts that last little bit that would give them the future they both yearn for. It all comes to a head when Bryn wants to help a young patient and her mother but needs the contacts to succeed. Nick could help if he could get past his issues with his father, but he's reluctant to face that pain. I loved Nick's "aha" moment and what he did with it. The ending was a roller coaster of emotions with the perfect conclusion.

I loved Honey, the dog. She is so sweet with the children. I laughed to see people's reactions to her costumes. 

 
 

A Lyon to Die For - E.L. Johnson (Dragonblade - Apr 2024)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 55)
 
Emmeline Harcourt fell in love with the wrong man and now is paying the price.
 
Crossed in love and sent to London for almost ruining her reputation, Emmeline is the only female proprietor in an exclusive row of London shops whose owners aren’t the most welcoming. But with a sharp tongue and fiery temper, Emmeline can deal with her unfriendly neighbors, even Mr Horatio Whittaker, an arrogant, reserved, opinionated young man with fixed opinions and cold manners.
 
Horatio Whittaker has given up on happiness. Abandoned at the altar for his scheming best friend, he never expected to find love again. He hardly notices women until he crosses paths with Miss Emmeline Harcourt.
 
Emmeline hopes to never encounter Mr Whittaker again, but when she accepts an invitation to the Lyon’s Den, they find themselves at the heart of a mystery, entangled with Horatio’s former fiancée and deceitful best friend.
 
From false accusations, rumored affairs, and even a deadly party game, Emmeline and Horatio must work together to prove their innocence and find the culprit. Pretending they are courting should make investigating easier, so long as they don’t fall in love.
 
This was a good enemies-to-lovers story with some mystery mixed in. Emmy was sent to London to stay with her brother and his wife after being caught in a compromising situation back home. After her brother's death, she remained with Charlotte, and they opened a milliner's shop together. As the book opens, Emmy is confronted by her landlord, Mr. Bryant, who is unhappy to learn that two women are running the store. No shrinking violet, Emmy has no problem standing up to the obnoxious Mr. Bryant and is ticked off when another shopowner, Mr. Whittaker, intervenes.
 
Horatio Whittaker has a long-standing grudge against Mr. Bryant, who used to be his best friend. Betrayed by his fiancee, Horatio has given up on love and mostly keeps it to himself. He has no intention of risking his heart again, but the beautiful and feisty Emmy gets his attention.
 
I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. They rub each other the wrong way, first at the shop and later at the Lyon's Den. However, when a mystery involving the former best friend and his wife erupts, Mrs. Dove-Lyon pairs Emmy and Horatio to investigate. They discover unexpected compatibility in their efforts and a similar wish to avoid unwanted attention. They agree on a fake courtship for mutual protection.
 
Matters become complicated when Emmy's ex-love shows up and begins making threats, and Horatio's ex-fiancee (now Mrs. Bryant) makes advances on him. Emmy worries about what Nicholas can do to her reputation and hesitates to confide in Horatio. I liked his protectiveness as he sensed her turmoil. Emmy, who understandably has trust issues, is confused by her growing feelings for Horatio and the problems created by Mrs. Bryant's actions.
 
Matters come to a head when a party game at the Lyon's Den turns deadly, and both Emmy and Horatio are suspected of murder. The twists and turns in this event kept me glued to the pages as I waited to see how it would turn out. The ending was quite satisfying, though I wish there had been more consequences for some of the participants.
 
I liked Emmy and Horatio. Both have difficult pasts to overcome, but finding each other helps them see that their pasts don't need to define their futures. Mrs. Bryant was a schemer who was a master of manipulation. I liked that Emmy saw through her quickly despite a few rough patches. I did not like Emmy's sister-in-law, Charlotte. She was too judgmental, especially for someone who quickly fell for Mrs. Bryant's lies. I usually like Mrs. Dove-Lyon, but she didn't show well in this book, as the woman in other stories never would have fallen for Mrs. Bryant's and Nicholas's lies.