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.

The Wedding Box - Toni Blake (Oliver Heber Books - Apr 2024)

MARRIAGE
Not even a bridal-veil-stealing dog can ruin Haley and Ben's wedding day. And when Haley's beloved Aunt Nan gives them a gift that's not to be opened “until your first big disagreement,” Haley is sure the box will sit gathering dust for a lifetime. After all, she and Ben are the perfect couple. Aren't they?
 
MAKING UP
But life comes with stresses. Architect Ben's career dreams are rooted in losses from his past, while bakery owner Haley has her own firmly-set -" and conflicting -" plans for how to get to a happy future. Each time they decide to open the gift, though, something stops them, pushing them to solve the issue themselves, and before long, the mysterious box takes on almost mythic proportions. They can't imagine what's inside that could fix every marital woe, but they want to save it as long as possible.
 
MIRACLES
What happens when a problem comes along that can't be solved and no gift could ever fix? This one might just take believing in miracles.
 
This sweet story follows Ben and Haley from their first meeting to their fifth anniversary. It centers around a mysterious wedding gift from Haley's Aunt Nan—a beautifully wrapped box that is to be opened when they have their first major disagreement.
 
I loved Aunt Nan. She is Haley's mom's sister and has been a big part of Haley's life. She is the fun aunt who has a way of supporting her nieces without being overbearing. I enjoyed seeing her help Haley and Ben through their rough patches with subtlety, humor, and occasional bluntness. She was the one who facilitated the first meeting between Haley and Ben.
 
I enjoyed watching the development of the relationship between Ben and Haley. The book flips back and forth between the present and flashbacks to the early days of their romance. It also alternates between Haley and Ben's points of view so that the reader sees how each handles the various events in their lives. I liked seeing them learn to really listen to each other and talk out the problems that arise. I kept waiting for that pivotal moment when they would finally need to open the box. What drove them to it was heartbreaking but perfectly done. The ending was terrific.

Tourist Season - Brenda Novak (Mira - Apr 2024)

A summer by the ocean promises new beginnings -- until old secrets resurface.
 
Ismay Chalmers is ready for a relaxing summer reconnecting with her fiancé at his family's luxurious beachfront cottage. But before Remy can join her, a hurricane bears down on Mariners Island. Alone in the large house, Ismay makes a disturbing discovery in Remy's childhood closet. She's not sure what to make of it, but is relieved when the property's caretaker, Bo, checks in on her.
 
Bo's home is damaged, so they temporarily shelter together, and Ismay is comforted by his quiet strength. But the unannounced arrival of a family member puts Bo back at his place and changes Ismay's summer into something other than what she wants -- or ever expected. With so many reasons to feel unsettled, Ismay finds herself turning to Bo, who gives her more than a sense of security; there's something about him that makes her feel alive, stirring her to wonder what life might be like if she chose a different path…
 
As Ismay grows closer to Bo, she begins to hope the reclusive caretaker might eventually let down his guard. But when she finds out that he has secrets, too, she begins to question how well she knows any of the men in her life -- and how well she can trust her own heart.
 
Good romance with a bit of suspense mixed in to make things interesting. Ismay and Remy have been a couple for three years and living together for two of them. They met at college, where Ismay was studying to be a lawyer while Remy attended medical school. At the beginning of this book, Ismay graduated and passed her exam, and Remy is studying for his finals. They plan to take the summer off to spend time with each other and rejuvenate their relationship, which has suffered under the stress of their studies. Ismay has arrived at Remy's family beachfront cottage on Mariner's Island, where she will hang out until Remy can join her.
 
Shortly after her arrival, the island is hit by a massive storm, something the farm girl from Utah has never experienced before. While searching for a flashlight or candles, she stumbles across some disturbing items in Remy's old bedroom. She's relieved when the home's caretaker, Bo, arrives to fix the generator and check on her. There is something about Bo that makes her feel safe, so when the storm damages his house, she has no problem inviting him to stay at the cottage with her. Matters become more complicated when Remy's twin brother, Bastian, shows up unexpectedly.
 
First impressions: I liked Ismay. She has worked hard to get where she is and is rightfully proud of her accomplishments. She grew up on a family farm in Utah and had a solid value system. She is kind and courteous, and I liked how she treated Bo as an equal rather than as a servant. She looks forward to spending time with Remy because she feels they have drifted apart. But after finding those things in his closet, she wonders how well she really knows him.
 
I liked Bo, too. He has had a difficult life and, as a result, keeps mostly to himself. He doesn't trust easily and is wary of Ismay when he meets her. It doesn't take him long to realize that she differs from Remy. I liked his protectiveness toward her and his neighbor, Honey. Bo also has a big secret he has been keeping from everyone, which could change how people look at him.
 
Remy and Bastian. I didn't like either one of them. Remy is focused on himself and his goals and expects Ismay to go along with them. I didn't like how he took her for granted. But in her conversations with him, I thought something else was going on. Bastian creeped me out from the moment he appeared. He is rude, crude, and far too interested in making obnoxious comments to Ismay. There is also something odd in the relationship between the two brothers.
 
Jack. Ismay's brother is going through a devastating divorce that has left him reeling. Ismay invites him to come to Mariner's Island to escape the gossip and decide what he wants to do. He has been expected to follow in his father's footsteps as a farmer but realizes that may not be what he wants from life. Jack is a nice guy and stays with Bo while on the island. I liked how he pitched in to help with the storm cleanup and how easily he made friends with Bo.
 
I liked how Ismay confided her worries to Bo. They worked together to find out the truth about the things they found. The more they learned, the more worried they became. There were several worrisome twists, and I couldn't decide who the most likely culprit was. The more time she and Bo spent together, the closer they became. This also contributes to Ismay's concern over her relationship with Remy and leads to an examination of her choices. I felt her confusion and liked seeing her take a hard look at her options. Bo's secret comes out because of Bastian's underhanded actions, straining the developing relationship between Bo and Ismay. I ached for both as they came to terms with the revelation and what it meant to them.
 
The epilogue was an excellent wrap-up to the story.  

Finding Friends at the Cornish Country Hospital - Jo Bartlett (Boldwood Books - Apr 2024)

Series: Cornish Country Hospital (Book 2)
 
A fresh beginning…
 
Esther Hamilton, is finally finding her feet after her split with her horrible ex, and is looking forward to her new single life. She has a job she loves in the busy Accident and Emergency department, a new home and for the first time ever, a chance to just have fun with her good friends. Love is very much off the cards…
 
An old friend…
 
Until the arrival of Joe Carter - the brother of Esther's best friend, Danni. Joe is also newly single and still as gorgeous as ever, but Esther can't lose her heart to Joe. If it all went wrong, she'd lose two of her best friends.
 
A second chance at love?
 
But working together over a troubled patient, the connection between them is undeniable. And when Esther's parents' marriage hits trouble, Joe is there for her, offering her support, and Esther knows she's fallen hard.
 
Are they brave enough to take a risk on love, or are they destined to remain friends forever?
 
Good story that centers around two main characters - Esther and her mother, Caroline. Esther is a nurse in her hospital's emergency room, where she frequently works with her best friend, Danni, a doctor. Her biggest problem is having to deal with her cheating ex-boyfriend, Lucas, another doctor. She is enjoying being free and having time to spend with her friends. She is living on her own for the first time and loving the independence. Then Danni's brother, Joe, arrives from Australia to augment the hospital's psychiatric corps. Esther has always had a crush on Joe but won't risk two friendships with an ill-advised relationship.
 
Joe came home to Cornwall after a breakup with his girlfriend. He looks forward to a change of scenery and new challenges. He doesn't expect to be drawn to his sister's best friend, especially since she makes it plain that she isn't looking for anything except friendship.
 
However, when Esther's caring heart gets her into trouble with a young patient who has suffered a devastating loss, Joe is there to provide backup and support. I enjoyed seeing them work together to help the young man and grow closer as they spent time together. I liked Joe's protectiveness as the patient's attention grew more intense. But as Esther and Joe's relationship deepens, she panics at the realization that he will return to Australia, and fearing the effect on her heart, she pulls away. It takes a dangerous situation to make her realize that life is too short to play things safe. I liked the ending.
 
The other story is about Esther's parents, Caroline and Patrick. They worked hard all their lives to save for retirement and had big plans for that day. They moved from London to Cornwall to be closer to Esther. Caroline retired first and has been looking forward to making their dreams come true. In the meantime, she has made new friends and spends time volunteering. But when Patrick retired, instead of moving forward with their plans, he became a homebody uninterested in anything even remotely adventurous. Caroline is frustrated and feels a growing distance between herself and Patrick. I felt terrible for Caroline and wanted to shake Patrick for constantly blowing off her concerns. I suspected something else was going on and was proved right. It took a near tragedy to bring these two back together.
 
I enjoyed the medical aspects of the book, which covered everything from dementia to kidney failure. I loved seeing the caring healthcare workers, the assorted patients, and the fun volunteers. Each one had a unique personality, and I laughed out loud at some of the interactions. There were also tears at heart-wrenching moments and hope that things would work out for everyone. 

 
 
 

Forbidden Nights With the Paramedic - Alison Roberts (HMED #1381 - Apr 2024)

Series: Daredevil Doctors (Book 1)
 
A DANGEROUS TEMPTATION!
 
After a family trauma, self-proclaimed playboy Edward is living life to the fullest. On his first day with Aberdeen-based air rescue paramedics, he's floored by the instant crackle of electricity he experiences with crew partner Jodie. It's clear heartbroken Jodie's not willing to risk another workplace romance, but a secret fling could be just what they need! Will forbidden nights together lead to the forever they've been too scared to consider?
 
Good story. Eddie returned to Scotland to be closer to his family after his brother Mick was injured in an accident. He has started a new job with an air ambulance crew and is stunned by his instant attraction to his coworker Jodie. Jodie also feels the heat, but after a tragic loss in her past, she has no plans to risk her heart again.
 
Eddie is one of the triplet brothers who have been living the lives of carefree bachelors. But after Mick's accident, Eddie realizes he wants more out of his life. Starting over with a new job allows him to make changes. However, the object of his interest has no desire to enter into a committed relationship with anyone. I ached for Jodie and the tragedy that caused her to close off her heart. She fills her life with her work and the extreme activities that make her feel alive without risking her heart.
 
I enjoyed watching Jodie and Eddie's relationship develop. It begins with respect for each other's abilities and friendship as they discover what they have in common. Each tries to ignore the sparks, as Jodie wants no relationship, and Eddie has been warned against workplace liaisons. But when the heat can no longer be ignored, they decide a quick and secret fling could be what they need to "get it out of their systems." Neither expected the intensity of their connection. Eddie embraced it and hoped for more, but Jodie panicked at her growing feelings for him and pulled away.
 
I liked Eddie's patience and understanding. He understood Jodie's fears and gave her the space she needed while fearing that friendship was all they would ever have. Jodie tried denying her feelings until a scary situation forced her to admit she'd fallen for him despite her efforts not to. I loved seeing them come together at the end and look toward a future together.
 
I enjoyed the variety of medical events handled by the paramedic crew. The descriptions were vivid enough to make me feel like I was there. I also liked the realism of the characters' feelings as they participated in various rescue missions.
 
I look forward to the second book in this duet and learning about Eddie's brother, James. I would also like to see Mick's progress in recovering from his injuries and their effect on his life.