A Viscount for the Egyptian Princess - Heba Helmy (HH #1794 - May 2024)

An unforgettable meeting in Paris
An unexpected reunion in Egypt
 
Viscount Louis Wesley is captivated by the beautiful woman he meets at the Louvre. He never expects to see her again, but then he arrives in Egypt for his royal best friend's wedding and discovers she's the bride, Princess Mervat! Learning it's a convenient match that both intend to avoid, Louis vows to help. The stakes may be high, but Louis's biggest challenge will be resisting falling for the princess himself!
 
Good book. I enjoyed the unusual setting of 1870s Egypt and the blending of cultures in the story. The richness of the details, from food and clothing to traditions and folklore, gave depth to the story and added to my enjoyment.
 
I liked the first meeting between Louis and Mervat. She is an Egyptian princess visiting Paris with her mother. Mom is most interested in shopping, but Mervat has deeper interests. She is fascinated by the genealogy of artifacts and sneaks away to the Louvre for an afternoon of research. There, she meets Louis, an English viscount, who is there to attend a lecture about a Turkish artifact. He is drawn to Mervat, introduces himself, and proceeds to get her talking about the sculpture she is standing in front of. He is fascinated by her and her story, while she is unused to someone genuinely interested in what she has to say. He invites her to the lecture, not knowing of her connection to the artifact, and never expects to see her again.
 
Imagine his shock when he arrives in Egypt to attend his friend Hussam's wedding and discovers the mysterious lady is Hussam's fiancée! He's not sure why he's dismayed, but when he learns that neither wants the arranged marriage, he offers to help. Here's where the story gets very complicated. Hussam claims to be in love with someone else and develops an elaborate plan to prove to his father that he and Mervat are not suited. It involves Hussam and Nadine, and Louis and Mervat being seen together, with the ultimate goal of Hussam being able to marry Nadine.
 
Louis believes he is safe to help because he has no intention of falling in love before marrying, thanks to a family history of poor choices. As soon as he made that statement, I knew he would fall hard. He and Mervat connect over their interest in the Cerulean Crown and work together to investigate its history. They connect over their interest in the stories behind things and spend as much time together as possible. Neither expects the feelings that grow between them.
 
I liked the scenes of Louis and Mervat together. I liked Louis's belief in and respect for Mervat's intelligence and abilities and his support for her dreams. Mervat does a great job of boosting Louis's self-confidence in his writing and what he can do with it. But Louis has little confidence that he is worthy of Mervat, and Mervat doesn't believe she can hold his attention. Both have insecurities that hold them back from sharing their feelings, and it takes effort to overcome those obstacles. I liked the ending and Louis's big moment.
 
I didn't like Hussam very much. He came across as shallow and spoiled, more interested in pulling one over on his father than actually achieving the purpose of the deception. Trouble comes when his plan fails, putting all their plans in jeopardy. I was happy to see that he learned from what happened and came through for his friends in the end.

The Return of His Caribbean Heiress - Lydia San Andreas (HH #1776 - Feb 2024)

An unforgettable first kiss
An unexpected second chance…
 
It's been five years since the night Leandro Díaz kissed heiress Lucía Troncoso before she left for Europe. He'd known they were from different worlds and would have to part, yet losing her still hurt… Now she's returned but Leo isn't the man he once was. Hardened by life, he holds Lucía at a distance and refuses to give in to their reignited attraction. Until danger hits and they're forced closer than ever before… 
 
After reading Amalia's story, Alliance with His Stolen Heiress, I looked forward to reading her sister Lucía's story. That book ended with Amalia, her husband, and Lucía headed to Europe, where Lucía would study music. I was half expecting to read of her life in Vienna and finding love there. Instead, this book picks up five years later, as Lucía and the others return home.
 
The book opens with a prologue that takes place the day before Lucía leaves for Europe. She encounters a young man, Leo, who draws her attention. Their meeting is fun, and you can see Lucía trying out her feminine wiles on Leo. The meeting ends with a toe-curling kiss that affects both. But she is gone when Leo returns to visit her the next day.
 
Fast forward five years. Lucía, Amalia, and Julian have returned. We get the impression from Lucía's thoughts that she has given up her music. We also learn that she and Leo exchanged letters for about a year before he abruptly stopped writing to her. Lucía thought they had something special, and his actions broke her heart. When she unexpectedly encountered Leo in town, she was stunned and angry to find him cold and dismissive toward her.
 
The events of his life have changed Leo over the past five years. Previously a dreamer interested in writing poetry, he is now focused on work and earning as much money as possible. His guilt over some of those events causes him to believe that a future with Lucía isn't feasible.
 
Matters become complicated when Lucía chases him after an evening encounter. She wants an explanation, but before that can happen, they witness some strange activity on one of the boats in the harbor. When that boat goes up in flames, Leo and Lucía are accused of setting the fire. Barely avoiding capture, a friend helps them escape, but they are forced into each other's company while they look for a way to prove their innocence.
 
I found the progression of their relationship frequently frustrating. There is no denying their attraction, but their stubbornness gets in the way of exploring what's behind it. Though Leo believes he can't have a future with her, he can't stop feeling protective of her. This leads him to go overboard in his attempts to keep her safe, which makes Lucía more determined to do things her way. She's tired of being looked at like a china doll, but her frustration with Leo leads to poor choices on her part, confirming Leo's belief that she needs protecting. It takes trouble catching up to them for Leo to finally see Lucía as the capable woman that she is. That confrontation was well done, and I enjoyed witnessing the bad guy get his comeuppance.
 
I ached for Leo and Lucía as pieces of their backstory were revealed throughout the book. Each had self-doubts to overcome before being ready for a future together. Fortunately, they could see past the doubts and provide the support each other needed to move forward together. The epilogue was good and gave an excellent update on their future.
 
I also enjoyed the author's vivid descriptions of the locations. The underground lakes were especially intriguing.

K-9 Security - Nichole Severn (HI #2195 - Feb 2024)

Series: New Mexico Guard Dogs (Book 1)
 
He and his K-9 always get the job done.
But this case will test even the toughest heart.
 
Military contractor Cash Meyers and his Rottweiler, Bear, show up in time to save Elena Navarro from being abducted by a drug cartel. But they're too late to protect her little brother. Rescuing the boy means confronting a criminal who will sacrifice anything -- and anyone -- to claim Elena. Cash's instincts are battle-honed, but will his intense attraction to Elena put them both in danger?
 
Excellent start to the new series. The story was fast-paced, with nearly non-stop action and a hint of romance, taking place over a few days. The story opens as Elena's small town is under attack by a cartel. Homes are in flames, and Elena is desperate to protect her eight-year-old brother. Elena's fear leaped off the page as they encountered cartel members determined to stop them. Her ferocity in trying to protect Daniel was incredible, but they managed to overcome her in the end. Elena was saved from a similar fate by the arrival of a stranger who whisked her away to safety.
 
Cash is a member of the military contractor firm Socorro Security. A former Marine and DEA agent, a past betrayal drives his need to protect.  Guilty feelings over that same past have locked up his emotions. He also feels guilty for not seeing the imminent attack and warning the town. Saving Elena is the least he can do, but that doesn't explain his intense compulsion to protect her.
 
 I enjoyed watching the beginning of Cash and Elena's relationship as it fights for life amid the dangers of their search for Daniel. Cash and Elena each have baggage relating to the cartel that has deeply affected them, but they decide to work together to save Daniel. As they spend time together, bits of that baggage are unpacked and shared, and they begin to heal. There are some obstacles for them to overcome, such as Elena's connection to a cartel lieutenant and the secret Cash is keeping about the night of the attack. In the end, love wins out.
 
The story's suspense was intense, with an explosive beginning and barely time to breathe. The twists and turns of the action and a shocking revelation at the end kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. I got frustrated with Elena's tendency to rush into action without thinking about potential difficulties. On the other hand, Cash tended to go the other way by attempting to plan for every detail and possible problem. Cash and Elena got into several situations that had me on the edge of my seat until they were safe. The final confrontation was intense and terrifying, and I honestly didn't know how they would get out of it. Kudos to the author for a gripping finish.
 
I loved the relationship between Cash and his K-9, Bear. The story of how they became partners was heartbreaking, but their closeness is undeniable. I enjoyed their "conversations," which showed another side of Cash. I also liked how Bear immediately connected with Elena - it was a good sign for the future. 

My only complaint about the book was one line: "Tell Ivy that Echo got off his leash" from a man who helped Elena escape. But we never see Elena give Ivy the message or see Ivy's reaction.

Her Secret Valentine's Baby - J.C. Harroway (HMED #1370 - Feb 2024)

TWO ANTI-ROMANTICS. ONE BABY BOMBSHELL!
 
Heartbroken registrar Sadie is done with romance. An anti-Valentine’s party is ideal, especially when she meets dashing fellow commitment-phobe, Roman. They spend an electrifying night together—strictly no-strings-attached! But one year later, Roman reappears as a temporary surgeon. Still troubled by a tragic loss, he’s not looking to settle down…until Sadie reveals a secret. She’s had a little girl—and Roman’s the father!
 
Good story about two hurting people who make a connection that has lasting consequences. Sadie recently split with her almost-fiancé, who dumped her after cheating on her and getting the other woman pregnant. Sadie is especially hurt because she has fertility issues that he claimed didn't bother him. At a hotel bar, she meets Roman, and after talking for a while, they spend an anonymous night together.
 
A year later, Sadie is back at work for the first time after maternity leave. She's unhappy about leaving Milly, her miracle baby, and can't wait to get home to her. Imagine her shock when she encounters Roman, a temporary surgeon working at the same hospital where she is a doctor. Now for her dilemma: does she or doesn't she tell Roman that he is a father?
 
Communication is the top priority once they recover from the shock of seeing each other. Roman hasn't been able to forget Sadie and would like to spend time with her. But it's all on a superficial basis. He is still grieving the loss of his wife and son in an accident. He refuses to risk his heart on loving someone else. Meanwhile, Sadie worries that Roman will either reject Milly altogether or want shared custody of the child that is her life. Their first conversation is awkward, with Roman wishing to get closer and Sadie panicking over possibilities. It takes some time for Sadie to overcome her panic and finally confess to Roman.
 
I ached for both as Roman struggled with his emotions over the news, and Sadie waited for him to decide what he would do. As they spend time together, the sparks of attraction they felt in Vienna continue to grow. I liked seeing Roman open his heart to Milly, but I also sensed his confusion over his developing feelings for Sadie. Sadie is falling hard for the loving father she is getting to know, but experience makes it difficult for her to trust herself or Roman. There are some sweet scenes of them together and with Milly, and it's easy to see how good they'd be if they allowed themselves to love again. The ending is deeply emotional as Roman is willing to take a chance, but Sadie pushes him away. It takes Sadie some intense self-examination and letting go of her fears to realize what she's throwing away. I thought her big moment at the end was awkward, but it had the desired effect.

Sharp Evidence - Julie Miller (HI #2192 - Jan 2024)

Series: Kansas City Crime Lab (Book 4)
 
History is repeating itself…
With deadly consequences.
 
Discovering a bloody knife from two unsolved murders reunites theater professor Reese Atkinson with criminalist Jackson Dobbs. And the murder victims? Jackson's own parents. But the shy orphaned boy from her childhood is now an army veteran and fierce protector…of the evidence and of Reese. But just who is weaving a deadly web that not only threatens their reunion…but their lives?
 
This was a terrific conclusion to the Kansas City Crime Lab series. I've been intrigued by the quietly intense Jackson since the first book, so I was thrilled to see him get his chance at love. I ached for him as I learned about his past - his parents were murdered when he was twelve, and his cold and mean uncle took him in. He was constantly put down by that uncle, leaving him feeling that he'd never be loved. After high school, he left for the military and spent time boxing, resulting in a beat-up appearance. He's also rather shy, resulting in moments of social awkwardness that exacerbate the problem. All of that begins to change when he reunites with a childhood friend.
 
Reese was a child actress who performed in plays at the university theater where Jackson's parents were active. She was an outgoing child who never had trouble making friends. She was drawn to the boy who used to sit in the theater and read while his parents worked. Years later, she is a theater professor and the director of the latest production at that same theater. When she finds a bloody knife in a box of donations, she takes it directly to the crime lab, where she reunites with Jackson.
 
I loved their first meeting. Bubbly Reese shows up at the crime lab, and the first person she encounters is the taciturn criminalist. I adored his initial shock that she was talking to him, then the confusion as she told her story, followed by the flare of hope that this could be a clue in his parents' unsolved murders. As quickly as she appears, Reese is gone again. After briefly consulting with his coworkers, Jackson is off to the theater to investigate. There is a lot of intensity in that section, from Reese's dealings with students and the dean to Jackson's unexpected arrival and reactions to what he observed. I loved seeing him and Reese interact as she quickly learned how to interpret his grunts and comments. His protective instincts are aroused when he learns of the disturbing things happening to her.
 
The twists and turns of the investigation kept me reading far into the night. Several possible suspects kept me guessing to the end. I loved the teamwork between Jackson and Reese as they suspected a link between her stalker and his parents' murders. The ramping up of the intensity and a few looks into the perp's mind kept me glued to the pages until it was over. I was impressed by Reese's ability to think clearly while threatened and by Jackson's creative method of coming to her rescue.
 
I loved watching the relationship develop between Reese and Jackson. One of the things I adored about Reese was her willingness to be straightforward with Jackson. He has some issues with picking up on social clues, so it makes things much easier for him. He becomes better at reading her as they spend more time together. I loved his ability to see when she needed comfort or support and how he thought of her as "a breath of sunshine in his dark, distrustful soul." There were some delightful scenes of them together as the days went on, and I loved seeing the changes in Jackson. His big moment at the end was sweet in his unique communication style. Reese had no trouble figuring out what he was trying to say.
 
I loved the inclusion of the other members of the crime lab team. Their friendship and acceptance of Jackson just as he is gives him the semblance of family that he craves. I liked how they absorbed Reese into their group and treated her as part of their family. I enjoyed their surprise and approval of the difference Reese makes in Jackson's life.
 
The author's love of and involvement in theater shines in this book. Including small details brings the story an extra layer of reality and authenticity, making me feel like I was part of the production.

Exile's End - Rachel Lee (SIM #449 - Sept 1992)

Series: Conard County (Book 1)
 
SOMEONE WAS STALKING HIM
 
After being held captive for four years, CIA agent Ransom Laird just wanted to enjoy the wide-open spaces and warm sunshine of Wyoming. He hadn't expected to meet a woman whose very soul touched him, warmed him-a woman he could grow old with. And now that he'd found her, he was about to lose her to an unknown assassin. Someone who wanted Ransom dead. Someone who was trying to kill Mandy to get to him ...
 
Writer Mandy Grant saw Ransom as a wounded warrior seeking shelter within her fortress walls and herself as the lonely princess, too frightened to love. Because for Mandy, loving meant losing. And unless they stopped the killer first, they were both going to lose....
 
I've been a long-time fan of the Conard County series but only started reading them once I was further into the series. I liked getting my hands on the book that began it all. The story quickly drew me in with gripping suspense and emotional turmoil.
 
Ransom escaped from four years in a forced labor camp, then spent several months in the hospital recovering from his injuries. Looking for somewhere to finish his recuperation sent him to his friend, Nate, who lives in rural Wyoming. In addition to the wide-open spaces Ransom craves, Nate recommends him for a ranch hand position. He never expected to find a woman whose soul spoke to his.
 
Mandy became something of a recluse after the death of her husband four years earlier and the latest of many losses. She's afraid of caring for someone only to lose again. She immerses herself in the books she writes about warriors and princesses. Ransom's arrival creates cracks in the walls she's built around her heart.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Ransom and Mandy. Ransom touched me from the start. He is scarred, inside and out, by his experiences, but he wants this chance at a new life. After many years of subduing his emotions, allowing himself to feel again is difficult. He has a hard time believing anyone could care for him. Mandy is drawn to the wounded warrior in ways she's never felt before. As they spent more time together and grew closer, each had to face their fears before looking to a future together.
 
Mandy and Ransom spend a lot of time inside their own heads. When danger threatens, Ransom's protectiveness insists that she would be better off without him. Mandy pulls back every time her relationship with Ransom moves a little forward, terrified of risking her heart. There were times when I wanted to shake her for how she treated him. There's an emotional scene where he calls her out on it but disregards his own actions. It takes some in-depth self-examination, brought on by extreme danger, to open their eyes to the truth.
 
The suspense of the story was excellent. It began in the prologue with someone watching Ransom in his hospital bed, thinking about how easy it would be to kill him then. But they want to make him suffer first. When unexplained incidents happen to Ransom and Mandy, he is initially reluctant to believe someone is after him. After all, he's been inactive as an agent for years, and very few people even know he's alive. But his instincts tell him he's the target and he needs to protect Mandy. Though I figured out who the killer was pretty early, I was fully invested in seeing how it turned out. The final confrontation kept me glued to the pages as Ransom used his abilities to get to Mandy before it was too late.
 
This book was published in 1992, so some things are a little dated. One more noticeable was the realization that when Ransom, Nate, and Micah spoke of the war they fought, they were referring to Vietnam. There are no cell phones for quick communication, and the computer Mandy uses for writing her books uses disks. But those were all minor considerations in my enjoyment of the story. 

Part of His Royal World - Nina Singh (HR #4887 - Feb 2024)

Series: If the Fairy Tale Fits (Book 1)
 
A CONNECTION AS DEEP AS THE OCEAN…
 
When aspiring singer Arielle rescues a gorgeous man from a boat crash, she doesn't expect her life to be turned upside down -- because the man she's saved is Prince Eriko! In gratitude, she's whisked away to the palace, where their instantaneous chemistry soon becomes irresistible… But with Riko duty-bound to marry another royal, can Arielle ever truly be part of the prince's world?
 
Good book. I loved the tie-in to "The Little Mermaid," right down to their names and the title. It was a sweet story that kept me hooked from start to finish.
 
Arielle is an aspiring singer who left her overachieving family in Chicago to pursue her dream. Unfortunately, the band split up in Spain, leaving her stranded and jobless. She found a job at a local resort entertaining visiting children. As the story opens, the red-headed Arielle is dressed as a mermaid while reading to the children. When a storm pops up, she sees a man clinging to a float ring in the surf and rushes to his aid.
 
Prince Erikol is the heir to the throne of his small kingdom. He is under much pressure to marry, and his parents are pushing one particular princess at him. In a desperate attempt to escape for a while, he takes his sailboat out for a spin and some peace. When the sunny day suddenly turns stormy, Riko finds himself tossed overboard and in danger of drowning. He doesn't expect to be rescued by a beautiful mermaid.
 
I loved watching Arielle's rescue of Riko. She is determined to save him and refuses to give up. Losing her job over it put her in the tough situation of possibly having to return home with her dream unfulfilled. I enjoyed seeing Riko show up to thank her for saving his life - her reaction was priceless. Riko was bemused by his desire to help her, and I liked how he found her a job as a nanny to his niece and nephew.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Riko and Arielle develop. The connection between them was instantaneous, making them comfortable with each other despite their differences. I liked how Riko behaved uncharacteristically by finding excuses to be with her. Arielle enjoys her time with Riko but tries to protect her heart, knowing they have no future. Matters become complicated when the princess arrives for a visit, and the pressure on Riko resumes. I ached for Riko, who, torn between duty to family and country and his love for Arielle, felt powerless to pursue his heart's desire, and for Arielle, who had already lost her heart to him.
 
I cheered for Arielle when she had the opportunity to make her dream come true, but I also ached for her as it took her away from Riko. I loved seeing Riko get timely advice from his twin brother, Manny, and its effect on him. I liked the solution Riko found to his issues with his parents. I loved the sweet and emotional reunion between Riko and Arielle. The epilogue was terrific, and I liked seeing where they stood two years later. I especially enjoyed the twist involving Arielle's music.
 
The secondary characters were great. My favorites were Riko's brother, Manny, and his family. I liked Manny's close relationship with Riko. Manny's wife was sweet, and I liked how quickly she became friends with Arielle while the two children were adorable. Riko's parents had their good and bad moments, but they turned out to be okay. Arielle's sisters were supportive. I especially enjoyed Maysie's reaction to Riko's arrival at the end. However, I really wanted to see Arielle's judgmental father's response to his daughter's future.

Colton Threat Unleashed - Tara Taylor Quinn (HRS #2263 - Feb 2024)

Series: Coltons of Owl Creek (Book 1)
 
His dogs are under attack
…and so is the mother of his unborn baby.
 
Who's sabotaging Sebastian Cross's elite dog training facility? Or is his longtime friend, veterinarian Ruby Colton, the real target? The ex-Marine and feisty vet work together to find the culprit and prevent further carnage…until one night of passion leaves Ruby pregnant. Sebastian's PTSD and Ruby's fierce independence mean neither wants marriage and family. But deadly danger has a way of changing lives…and love.
 
Terrific start to the new series. The story opens with a bang as Sebastian deals with another vandalism attack at his dog training facility. While handling that, he is distracted by the presence of Ruby, his friend, and the vet who takes care of his dogs. He can't forget the night they spent together after his dog was injured, and they found comfort in each other's arms.
 
Sebastian and Ruby are two independent people who are loners. Sebastian's PTSD has made him determined to avoid putting anyone in danger from his episodes. Because of being an only child, he is accustomed to depending on himself, and with his parents gone, he has no one. Ruby is part of a large family, but the chaos of her life left her preferring animals to people. She has no interest in marriage or a family for herself. So she is shocked when she discovers she is pregnant from that one night with Sebastian.
 
Once Ruby gets past the shock and denial stage, she realizes she is happy about the baby. She knows Sebastian's feelings on marriage and family and plans to raise the baby on her own, with the support of her family. She knows she needs to tell Sebastian. There is a little confusion around that confession, thanks to some remarks from one of Ruby's brothers. Sebastian doesn't know what to do with the news once he accepts it. His first reaction was to pull back.
 
But as the weeks went on and they worked together to protect the dogs, Sebastian became more invested in becoming a father. I liked watching the changes he and Ruby experienced as they spent more time together, each learning to lean a little on the other for support. It takes a while for each to come to terms with their feelings for each other, and nearly losing each other to realize they are better together than apart.
 
The suspense of the story was excellent. The escalating attacks at the dog training facility kept Sebastian and Ruby on edge. I ached for both of them as their beloved dogs were constantly threatened. The trouble intensified with attacks on Ruby herself, leaving Sebastian determined to protect her. I could feel their frustration at the lack of progress in catching the perpetrator, and I understood Sebastian's need to draw him out. When I thought everything was resolved, an unexpected twist again put Ruby in danger. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I was glued to the pages until it was over.
 
I enjoyed meeting the other members of the Colton family and look forward to reading their stories. I liked Wade, Sebastian's best friend, and ached for the pain he experienced from his time in the Marines. It's going to take someone special to help him. I also liked Fletcher, who leaves his police job in Utah to come home and help with the investigation. 

 

Her New York Minute - Darby Baham (HSE #3032 - Feb 2024)

Series: Friendship Chronicles (Book 4)
 
Eyes on the prize…
Her career -- or her love?
 
From the moment Brit Olivia Robinson lands in New York City, she's single-minded in her ambition: take America by storm and become the best portfolio manager the New York office has ever seen on her way to a big UK promotion. Romance? No way. But after a chance airplane connection with handsome Thomas Wright, the instant spark that ignites is unlike anything she's ever felt. Thomas's role is clear, especially as Liv settles into her temporary new life. She needs a friend -- nothing more. If ambitious Liv pauses on her zoom to the top, though, can she find room for Thomas in her heart and her life -- permanently?
 
Eh. I wanted to like this book. It has never taken me three days to read one of these books, but I kept finding it easy to be distracted from it. It felt more like a book about Olivia and her friends than a romance. It seemed like Thomas had very little page time. The story was told entirely from Olivia's point of view, and I missed getting his point of view on what was happening. It was like half the story was missing. The series is called "The Friendship Chronicles," but I could have used less girl time and more romance.
 
When Olivia arrived in New York from London, she was excited about the job opportunity ahead of her. She has her entire career planned out with no room for distractions. Meeting a nice guy who strikes sparks was not in her plan, but Thomas is laid back and willing to be friends. I didn't care for how she kept him to a text-only friendship for months before deciding to grace him with an in-person meet-up.
 
I liked Thomas. He is a nice guy who deserves better than Olivia. He is sweet, caring, intuitive, and understands her. I liked his support and encouragement despite her taking him for granted.
 
I understand that she had her fears of getting too close, thanks to previous relationships. But Thomas was clearly different than those other men. I had high hopes for her when she took their relationship to the next level, but she blew it when she got word of an upcoming promotion. She lost what little credibility she'd built up with me with her treatment of Thomas. There is some redemption after a conversation with one of her friends gives her plenty to think about. The ending has promise, but if I were Thomas, I'd be cautious.

Agent Colton's Secret Investigation - Dana Nussio (HRS #2231 - June 2023)

Series: Coltons of New York (Book 5)
 
A rancher confronts the past
With a fearless agent's help…
 
Rancher Micah Perry always suspected his father was murdered. Now FBI agent Deirdre Colton is seeking his help investigating his former stepmother, a potential serial killer. The case is Deirdre's chance to redeem herself with the Bureau. But Micah wants only to protect his son and find out who is sabotaging his ranch. Working together demands they overcome their differences…and their searing attraction.
 
Good book. Deirdre is an FBI agent on forced vacation after breaking too many rules during an investigation. So she steps in, on her own time, to help her New York cousins in their search for a suspected "Black Widow" serial killer. The story opens as she arrives in Wyoming to talk to Micah about his former stepmother, who may be the woman the other Coltons are looking for.
 
Micah is a single dad with his hands full, raising his son and working his ranch. He also has problems with escalating sabotage on his property. Despite multiple visits from the police, no one has been able to catch the perpetrator. Though he's always believed his stepmother murdered his father, he has no interest in revisiting that part of the past.
 
Deirdre is a city girl, through and through, as is shown by her reaction to Wyoming's wide-open spaces. She can't wait to interview Micah and catch the next plane back to DC. Fate has other plans for her. She arrives as Micah is dealing with another episode of vandalism and is in no mood to cooperate with her. When the sheriff comes to take Micah's report, he's interested in Deirdre's presence, especially when he learns of her "vacation." It doesn't take long for him to coerce - umm, convince - her to help his short-handed department with Micah's problem. Micah agrees to answer her questions if she helps him. Neither expects the sparks of attraction that flare between them.
 
I enjoyed the combination of suspense and romance. Deirdre and Micah spend a lot of time together looking for leads to the vandal and working on the ranch. Seeing Deirdre's growing appreciation for the peace of Wyoming and life on the ranch was fun. I liked seeing her and Micah develop enough mutual trust to share the more painful parts of their pasts and grow closer. I also enjoyed seeing the quick connection between Micah's son, Derek, and his "Dee-Dee."
 
When the latest intrusion at the ranch threatens Derek, Deirdre suggests they all fly to New York for a few days to keep him safe and give the sheriff and his deputies a chance to catch the perpetrator. This will also allow Micah to see if any sites jog his memory about his stepmother. There are meetings with the New York Coltons as they try to get closer to finding their quarry. A lucky memory brings hope and action, but mistakes also bring heartache and disappointment.
 
A return to Wyoming brings them face-to-face with Micah's tormentor. The intensity of the confrontation kept me glued to the pages until it was over. I wasn't surprised by the identity of the perpetrator. Meanwhile, Micah and Deirdre's relationship hits some bumps in their road to happiness. Neither can let go of the fears that keep them from giving in to their love. It takes some well-meaning interference from Deirdre's brother, Aidan, to set up an emotional reunion between them. I liked the ending and look forward to the next book.
 
The overarching series mystery of Humphrey's disappearance is partially solved in this book, but another part will continue in the next book. 

 

Accidentally His - Sabrina Jeffries (Kensington - Jan 2024)

Series: Designing Debutantes (Book 3)
 
As a viscount's heir, Rafe Wolfford is obligated to take a wife someday. But she must be the right sort of wife -- not too independent, and not inclined to delve into his escapades as a spy. The forthright, perceptive Lady Verity is altogether the wrong choice. But Rafe's courtship is merely a ruse to discover whether Verity or anyone else associated with Elegant Occasions is leaking crucial information to the French. That mission is all that matters -- until fate, and desire, intervene.
 
After enduring one disastrous engagement, Verity won't easily open her heart again, preferring to devote herself to Elegant Occasions. Rafe is charming, handsome, and kisses like the very devil, but she knows he's harboring secrets. Still, when her ex-fiancé tries to ruin her reputation, Rafe offers his hand. For the sake of her family and business, Verity has little choice but to accept. Yet turning this arrangement into a true marriage will require daring and trust -- which neither will embrace easily, making surrender all the sweeter . . .
 
Terrific conclusion to the series. The Harper sisters' business, Elegant Occasions, is doing a booming business with its event planning and matchmaking services. Verity's sisters, Diana and Eliza, found their matches in the previous books. Verity isn't interested in a match for herself. Between an earlier betrayal and her parents' scandalous behavior, she has trust issues and feels she is better off on her own.
 
Rafe is an army officer who is also a spy. He has a reputation as a chameleon whose disguises can get him anywhere undetected. His mission is to find the person providing military information to the French. He believes it is someone connected to the Harper family and is determined to get closer to them. He decides his best option is to fake courting Verity. He doesn't expect the intense attraction that complicates his plans.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Rafe and Verity develop. Rafe's confidence in his abilities is well-earned, but he's never encountered anyone like her. His attitude at the beginning made me laugh out loud: "He would use Lady Verity's native curiosity to draw her in, and then would charm her into giving up her family secrets...or at least showing him where to look for them. What could be easier?" He had no idea what he was getting himself into.
 
Verity is an intelligent and observant young woman who never forgets a face. Her first thought when she saw Rafe was that he reminded her of the Phantom, a man who has crashed multiple events over more than a year wearing various disguises. After his introduction, she second-guesses herself but can't let go of the suspicion. She finds him good-looking and charming, but that lingering suspicion makes her wary. But a grand scene at the auction that night wins him some points.
 
As Rafe increases his attention to Verity to get closer to the family, the sparks of attraction between them grow stronger. Rafe continues his investigation while fighting his growing feelings for her. It was fun to see how being near her scrambled his brain and made him feel protective of her. Verity also feels the same sparks while becoming more convinced that Rafe is the Phantom. I loved their conversations - their banter and teasing were fun and flirtatious.
 
I also ached for Rafe as he grew closer to Verity and her family. He had a lonely childhood, brought up by his bachelor/soldier uncle, and that loneliness has continued as an adult. Some vulnerability was exposed as he experienced the close and chaotic Harper family life, and he wondered what it would have been like to have a family like that. He also has unanswered questions about his family.
 
When Rafe rescues Verity from a sticky situation, offering marriage is the only thing he can do to protect her. But he worries about what will happen when she learns the truth about why he was there. I loved the conversation when he revealed those secrets and Rafe's surprise at her reaction. Rafe's reaction to her revelation of him as the Phantom had me laughing the loudest. His shock at how much he had underestimated her was hilarious, but it did bring them closer.
 
Meanwhile, Rafe is beginning to close in on the traitor but lacks some vital information. I loved seeing his partnership with Verity as they collaborated on what he knew. The resolution came together quickly at this point with an unexpected twist and Verity in danger. The final confrontation was satisfying and believable.
 
The book had an emotional ending, with all questions resolved. The epilogue was terrific, and I loved catching up with all three sisters and their families.

Once Upon a Charming Bookshop - Heatherly Bell (HSE #3022 - Dec 2023)

Series: Charming, Texas (Book 6)
 
Time to rewrite their story?
 
He'd always simply been her best friend. But when Noah Cahill moved back to town, bookstore owner Twyla Thompson knew something was different. Was it holiday memories of the loss they'd both shared or Noah's surprising decision to reignite a dangerous career? Their solid friendship had been through so much, yet now Twyla grew breathless every time Noah was near. Why wasn't Noah -- handsome, fun, but never one to cross the line -- showing any signs of stopping?
 
Good friends to lovers story. Noah and Twyla have been best friends for most of their lives. Their connection is evident to everyone around them, many of whom insist the two are in love. But Noah and Twyla insist they are just friends because each fears losing that bond. Complicating matters, Twyla briefly dated Noah's brother, Will, before he died in a boating accident.
 
Noah's grief over Will's death, the guilty feelings he has over not being able to save him, and his complex relationship with Will drove him away from town, looking for a new start as a firefighter. But a narrow escape brings him back to town and Twyla. He's ready to follow his dream of running his own boating business, but will he find the courage to tell Twyla how he feels?
 
Twyla runs her family bookstore and pines for Noah. She's kept her feelings for Noah to herself because he shows no interest in being anything more. She's tried dating, but none can hold a candle to Noah. Meanwhile she throws herself heart and soul into keeping the bookstore going and fending off her friends' matchmaking attempts.
 
I enjoyed watching Noah and Twyla's relationship develop, though there were times when I wanted to knock their heads together. Their feelings for each other grow stronger, but denial is a long-standing habit that is hard to overcome. Complicating matters, Noah's guilty feelings make him feel unworthy of Twyla, so that's one more thing that holds him back. I loved seeing the lights finally go on and they realize they'd been in love for a long time. There are still some obstacles to overcome, but love, patience, and communication win the day.
 
I loved the bookstore setting. As a bookaholic and former bookseller, it was easy to relate to Twyla. From the poetry club and costume party to receiving book shipments, I felt like I was in the shop with her. I worried with her over the bookstore's financial woes and rooted for her to win the angel investor prize.
 
I also enjoyed the secondary characters. The Almost Dead Poets Society always makes me smile. I loved seeing Noah settle into his new business and deal with his inherited employees. I especially liked the ultra-cool T and his variety of T-shirts. 

Meadow Falls - Carolyn Brown (Montlake - Jan 2024)

Angela Marie has spent all of her thirty-five years on Meadow Falls, the farm that’s been in her Texas family for generations. It wasn’t her plan. It was an obligation. Now that her parents—less loving kin than strangers—have passed, the whole shebang belongs to Angela. And a legacy she never wanted is hers to uphold.
 
She can’t forsake it now. Her beloved nanny, Mandy, who was always more of a mother, needs a caregiver herself. And Mandy’s great-granddaughter, as close to Angela as a sister, has returned to roost. When a handsome veteran arrives seeking work as a farmhand, Angela thinks the future might not be half-bad after all.
 
But it’s the past that proves enlightening. Mandy is revealing secrets Angela never knew about her parents. As the clouds on her family history begin to part, the inheritance feels more like a precious gift, and Meadow Falls more like the home Angela’s been looking for her whole life.
 
Good emotional story about family, forgiveness, and letting go of the past. I love the author's talent for creating characters that are easy to relate to and realistic situations for them to deal with.
 
Angela Marie has spent her entire life on Meadow Falls, the successful peanut farm that has been in her family for generations. It wasn't by choice. She wanted to go to college and see life away from the farm, but as her father's only heir, he pretty much kept her chained to the farm. He started training her "from the ground up" when she was four years old and cleaning tools to the current day, where she can do it all, which is a good thing when he suddenly dies from a heart attack.
 
The book opens as she and her elderly nanny/housekeeper, Mandy, attend her father's funeral. Angela Marie feels a bit bitter about being stuck with the farm. She feels no grief for her father, as he was a cold, unfeeling man who never showed her any affection. Her emotionally distant mother died years earlier. Mandy was Angela Marie's only source of love and attention growing up, while Mandy's great-granddaughter, Celeste, was like a sister to her.
 
Celeste, who joined the Air Force eighteen years earlier, shows up suddenly right after the funeral. She has left the military and her unfaithful husband and come home to regroup. I liked Celeste and her forthright and practical attitude toward life. She and Angela Marie have a terrific relationship, and I enjoyed their exchanges. Celeste is very good at getting Angela Marie out of her tendency to get lost in her thoughts and take action.
 
Devon Parker, a recently retired Air Force mechanic and friend of Celeste's, appears at Meadow Falls looking for a job. The hiring process had me laughing out loud, but it is evident that Devon was perfect for the job. Devon also brings in his cousin Jesse, a handyman Angela Marie hires for renovation work.
 
As Angela Marie settles into her new life, things begin to change. She and Celeste talk Mandy into sharing stories of the family's past, and Angela Marie learns things that surprise her. As light shines on the darkness of the past, Angela Marie finds that light finding its way into her heart. Devon is there to support her through the journey, and she discovers hope for love and a family for herself. I liked Devon's easy-going ways, kindness, and understanding. Their growing feelings for each other are sweet and a bit steamy.
 
I loved Mandy. She is a wise old lady who has taught Angela Marie and Celeste many lessons over the years. She doesn't mince words when she has something to say. I ached for her as she dealt with her "memory disease" and loved that she handled it with humor and good grace. She and her friend Polly are a hoot together.
 
A little bit of a mystery about Celeste has haunted her all her life. Angela Marie is just as curious, and I enjoyed watching her thought processes as she tried to learn the truth. I figured it out early in the book but enjoyed it anyway.
 
The book wraps up with a terrific epilogue that updates us on life at Meadow Falls a few years later. It's a mixture of happiness and sadness, just like life itself.

A Hideaway Wharf Holiday - Laurel Greer (HSE #3011 - Oct 2023)

Series: Love at Hideaway Wharf (Book 2)
 
Diving headfirst into uncharted waters.
 
Independent single mom? Free-spirited Franci Walker's got it covered. Until she goes into labor early…with only fellow diver Archer Frost to help. And after unexpectedly delivering Franci's baby, Arch can't resist the coworker who's secretly brought sunshine his way for years. But Arch has spent years burying his feelings -- first his guilt over the accident that left him with an amputation and killed his best friend, then his growing attraction to Franci. Maybe the new mom -- and her sweet baby -- can lead Archer out of those turbulent seas for good…
 
Terrific book. Franci and Archer are friends and coworkers at the local dive company. Archer's best friend is Franci's older brother, Sam. When Sam leaves for a trip to the UK with his fiancé, he extracts a promise from Archer to watch over a very pregnant Franci.
 
Franci is stubbornly independent and plans to raise her baby on her own. Her family's super-protectiveness frustrates Franci, who sometimes feels smothered by the attention. She pushes back against Archer's attempts to help her. Not only does it go against her independent nature, but it also makes it difficult to resist her overpowering attraction to him. Everything changes when a monster storm coincides with Franci going into labor early.
 
I loved Archer. He is a man who cares deeply about his friends and family, but he locked away his emotions after a tragic accident. He has also buried his growing feelings for Franci, believing he is too old and no good for her. He has a lot of love to give if he'd only forgive himself.
 
I loved watching the relationship between Franci and Archer develop. Each has buried their feelings for each other until that fateful storm. I loved how Archer got his foot in the door to check on her by offering to help her paint the nursery. Neither expected Franci to go into labor early - she was counting on the family tradition of being overdue, and Archer followed her lead. I found it amusing that Archer figured out she was in labor long before she did. With no one able to get to them because of the storm, that left Archer to deliver the baby. Thank goodness for his Coast Guard rescue training! I loved his support during the process.
 
Neither expected the depth of the bond formed in delivering baby Iris. I loved seeing baby Iris create cracks in the walls around Archer's heart and then watch Franci widen those cracks further. Circumstances cause Franci and Iris to stay with Archer for several weeks, allowing them to grow closer. I liked how Franci began understanding why Archer is the way he is. I ached for Archer as he fought his feelings. I cheered when he faced one of his deepest fears and won in an incredibly emotional scene, opening a path to his heart's desire. The epilogue was terrific.
 
One of the things I enjoyed about this book was the treatment of Asher as an amputee. It isn't the focal point of who he is, just a fact of his life. The challenges and daily life are portrayed realistically and without drama.

The Pierogi Peril - Geri Krotow (Severn House - Jan 2024)

Series: Kielbasa Queen (Book 2)
 
Lydia Wienewski has opened her Polish-American cafe and bakery on the shore of Lake Erie, but her idyllic new venture is shattered when the low tide leads to a terrible discovery.
 
July, 1982. Lydia Wienewski's dream has finally come true: Lydia's Lakeside Cafe and Bakery, selling delicious Polish-American fare on the shore of Lake Erie, is now open and her fortunes are looking up. Even her old nemesis and tutor, the irascible Madame Delphine, has made time to sample Lydia's delectable pierogi, with some of her students in tow.
 
But when Lydia finds Madame Delphine dead in the water, her lakeside dream turns into a nightmare. Was it a bizarre suicide, or brutal murder? As Lydia and Grandma Mary investigate, they discover that there was more to Madame Delphine than meets the eye, and quickly find themselves drawn into an increasingly perilous situation! Can they uncover the truth about Madame Delphine's untimely death?
 
This was a fun, cozy mystery that hooked me quickly and kept me intrigued to the end. The scene is Buffalo, New York, in the early 1980s, and a Polish-American café owner who stumbles over her second dead body in a few months. Though I haven't (yet) read the first book in the series, enough backstory is provided for the references to make sense.
 
Lydia returned to her home and family in Buffalo after leaving pastry school in Ottawa over differences with her instructor, Madame Delphine. She splits her time between helping her father with his butcher business and running her newly opened café and bakery, with little left to spend with her boyfriend, Stanley. I like Lydia's close relationship with her family; the love, respect, and support are clearly there.
 
The story begins with an unexpected visit from Madame Delphine and others from the pastry school. Lydia is wary, as they did not part on the best terms. But the visit is surprisingly cordial, with both admitting to mistakes made. I liked the prospect of a friendly and professional relationship between the two former adversaries. Matters become complicated the next morning when Lydia discovers Madame's dead body in the lake behind the café.
 
I enjoyed Lydia and Grandma's investigation into the murder. Though the local cop writes it off as a suicide, Lydia is sure it was murder and sets out to prove it. The clues are few and far between, and there is a wide range of suspects, from Delphine's husband or son to students from the pastry school. Despite warnings from the local cop to stay out of it, Lydia is determined to solve the mystery before it impacts her business. I liked following her thought processes, though sometimes they led her to take risky chances. The final confrontation was well done, with enough intensity to keep me on the edge of my seat until it was over.
 
The story's characters were well-portrayed and unique enough to keep them straight. Lydia was fervently family-oriented but also looking for her place separate from them. She has her moments of unlikeable behavior, but it is easy to see the changes she undergoes during the book. Her boyfriend, Stanley, is a law student who is as busy as she is. I liked how they worked at their relationship. I loved his support and protectiveness as she got more involved in the investigation. I adored Grandma Mary. She reminds me a lot of Grandma Mazur in the Stephanie Plum books. She is feisty and outspoken, making me laugh at some of her comments. 

Claiming His Convenient Princess - Susan Meier (HR #4867 - Sept 2023)

Series: Scandal at the Palace (Book 3)
 
Could their arranged marriage…
be the perfect match?
 
When Prince Liam meets Demi Viglianco, his bride-to-be, she admits she'd rather not marry anyone! But their wedding is the only way to protect Demi from her father's schemes. After his ex left him heartbroken, Liam desires a completely convenient union. But as he helps Demi feel at home in his kingdom, their mutual arrangement is challenged by their sizzling attraction. Now Liam wants his princess-on-paper for real!
 
Good conclusion to the series. I've been looking forward to Liam's story. As the heir to the throne, Liam has a lot of responsibility and needs someone to share the load. He thought he had found someone, only to have her break things off and disappear from his life. Though he knows he needs to marry, Laim is no longer interested in finding a love match. He's content to accept an arranged match with a suitable woman picked out by his father.
 
Demi was also burned by love when the man she loved took her father's payoff rather than fight for her. She also has a poor example in her parents' marriage. She is not interested in marrying anyone, preferring to devote her time to charity work. She turns Liam down flat until he discovers her father has a backup match planned for her. Suddenly, Liam is the lesser of two evils!
 
I liked the honesty between Liam and Demi when they discussed the proposed match at their first meeting. Liam wasn't going to force anything, and they parted amicably. But an unexpected protectiveness was aroused when he discovered the alternative planned for her. I liked seeing him go to her and explain what he had found. The scene at the food bank gave Demi a different look at who he is and made it a little easier to choose him. Both are adamant that their match will be one of convenience and friendship and that love will never come into the picture.
 
I like how Liam swept Demi off to his island home. He's determined to make her feel comfortable in her new home. I loved the variety of activities that Liam used to introduce her to life on Prosperita, from casual dinners to royal appearances. Having grown up in a royal household, Demi adjusts well to those duties. But neither expects the sparks of attraction that flare between them complicating their emotionless pact. It was interesting to see how each deals with that problem. Liam focuses on their passion, believing it will suffice as the basis for their marriage and fighting against his growing feelings. Meanwhile, Demi attempts to keep an emotional distance between herself and Liam, afraid of ending up like her mother. But no matter how hard she tries, she falls for the man who swears he will never love again.
 
Liam and Demi have much to think about as the wedding rapidly approaches. I ached for both when the breaking point came. I loved how his brother Axel provided a much-needed wake-up call for Liam, opening his eyes to the truth. All he has to do is convince Demi. I liked the ending and seeing two people who were so right for each other finally admit their feelings in a very emotional scene.
 
The epilogue provided an update on the whole family two years later. I laughed out loud at Liam and Demi's surprise for King Jozef. 

 

Operation Takedown - Justine Davis (HRS #2256 - Dec 2023)

Series: Cutter's Code (Book 16)
 
Hunting for justice…
With a bodyguard dog.
 
As a powerful family tries to silence him, Jordan Crockett feels more endangered than he ever felt in combat. That doesn't stop him from telling Emily Bishop the truth about how her brother -- his best buddy -- died. When she becomes a target, too, he'll do anything to protect her. Luckily, the Foxworths and their incredible dog, Cutter, have his back…
 
Once again, the incredibly intuitive Cutter, the Foxworths' amazing dog, has brought them another case of an underdog needing help - this time via a set of dog tags. Jordan witnessed his best friend Eddie's death by friendly fire and finds himself in the crosshairs of a powerful family that doesn't want the truth to come out.
 
Eddie's sister, Emily, is still grieving Eddie's loss. She's stunned when she receives a handwritten letter from Jordan revealing the truth behind Eddie's death. A call to Sloan Dunbar (Operation Power Play) of Accountability Counts, a group that helps people like Jordan, puts her in contact with the Foxworth Foundation. I loved Emily's first contact with Cutter. She thought his fur looked soft and fluffy until she saw his eyes. "That gaze was anything but." I loved her first impression of Quinn and Haley, too.
 
Jordan made his way from Missouri to Washington, hoping to talk to Emily, but has difficulty mustering the courage. A chat with the former military owner of the campground Jordan is staying at results in a visit from Emily and the Foxworths. Once again, Cutter works his soothing magic on a tense subject while urging Jordan forward at the same time. "I'm a lot of things, dog, but I'm not a sheep." I loved Jordan's first encounter with Quinn. I expected his immediate respect for Quinn. Jordan did not expect Quinn's respect for him, even though he was "just a mechanic."
 
The first meeting between Emily and Jordan was intense. I ached for Jordan and the guilt he felt over Eddie's death, even though it wasn't his fault. He's stunned that Emily has no trouble believing that Eddie's death happened the way Jordan wrote it to her. Neither expected the sparks of attraction that flared between them or their instant connection. As the book progressed and Emily and Jordan spent time together, those feelings grew stronger. The biggest obstacle is Jordan's lack of self-confidence. There are some lovely scenes of the two together, and I loved seeing Emily call him out when he was down on himself. Of course, neither stands a chance against Cutter's matchmaking magic, and it was always fun to see his efforts.
 
I loved watching Quinn and the others get to work, assembling the facts needed to take down the man responsible for Eddie's death. It is always fascinating to see the teamwork involved and the belief that success is all but guaranteed. I enjoyed seeing characters from previous books play their parts in this one. I laughed out loud to see Emily and Jordan's reactions to the depth of support available. The tension ramped up as they prepared for the final confrontation. It was every bit as satisfying as I expected, including Cutter's part.