The Dandy Lyon - Jenna Jaxon (Dragonblade - Mar 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 75)
 
In love, the odds may never be in your favor.
 
Ruthless, wealthy, social outsider Marcus Dandridge has fallen in love. Hard. So hard he's already attempted to force marriage to Lady Joanna Longford by means of blackmail—and failed utterly, gaining the eternal enmity of her brother. Now desperate, Marcus consults his friend, Mrs. Dove-Lyon at The Lyon's Den, whose recommendation is a wild gamble--one Marcus would never lay odds on at his gaming establishments. But he's so desperate to have Joanna, he's willing to roll the dice just once more.
 
Lady Joanna Longford, just out and already bored by the conventional gentlemen she's met, is suddenly intrigued by the darkly handsome Mr. Dandridge. He's different from the other Society men—which makes her even more susceptible to his unconventional pursuit of her.
 
Still, the odds are against them, until Fate—and her brother's decree that they will never marry—triggers a defiance that may well spell disaster for both of them...
 
Marcus fell in love with Joanna when he first saw her. However, he is from a poor background and made his money by running gambling dens. Knowing she is far above him in social class, Marcus attempts to force a marriage by blackmailing her brother, Geoffrey (The Lyon's Paw). This rightfully angered Geoffrey, who took steps to ensure that Marcus couldn't get near her. Desperate to win the lady, Marcus goes to Mrs. Dove-Lyon for help.
 
Joanna is unimpressed with the men she has met so far. But a single dance with the mysterious Mr. Dandridge piques her interest, especially when her brother makes his displeasure known. Her attempt to meet with him ends in disaster, with Geoffrey even more determined to keep them apart.
 
Marcus doesn't give up and, through some deception, acquires an invitation to the same house party that Joanna attends. His arrival and unmasking show his determination and his negotiating skills. Seeing Marcus and Joanna convince their host to allow him to stay was fun. Marcus's attention gives Joanna the courage to be herself, and there are some amusing moments when she ruffles the feathers of the more conservative attendees at the party. I loved Marcus's matter-of-fact acceptance of her complaints and his willingness to do something about them. It doesn't take long for Joanna to return Marcus's feelings.
 
I loved the development of Marcus and Joanna's relationship. The depth of his feelings for her is evident throughout the book. While he is determined to win her heart, he also wants to protect her and her reputation. Joanna doesn't care what people think; she just wants the man she loves. The ups and downs of their road to happiness kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. The intense event that tipped the scales emphasized their feelings for each other. The ending was terrific, and I loved the epilogue.
 
This book was unusual in that Mrs. Dove-Lyon plays a very minor role. Rather than being the matchmaker that brings two people together, she is more of an advisor to Marcus. 

Wyoming Double Jeopardy - Juno Rushdan (HI #2280 - Apr 2025)

Series: Cowboy State Lawmen: Duty and Honor (Book 5)
 
A cowboy detective is in a showdown with a killer to protect an assistant DA
 
Waylon Wright can almost accept that he and Melanie Merritt can't be together. Dating a detective wouldn't just destroy her hopes for career advancement; it might be the end of her job as an assistant district attorney. Then a brutal attack sends his cowboy instincts into overdrive. Finding her assailant may not be his case, but he won't let her out of his sight. As the tough prosecutor lets down her guard just enough to get close to Waylon, the killer who wants her dead inches ever closer…
 
Terrific combination of romance and suspense. Waylon, a police detective, and Melanie, an assistant district attorney, spent three years in a secret relationship. However, Melanie ended their relationship when Waylon wanted to make it public. She feared that an open relationship would jeopardize her career and future plans because of the appearance of a conflict of interest. Waylon mostly accepts it but is still in love with her.
 
When Melanie experiences a brutal attack leaving work, Waylon's protective instincts take over. He will stick to her like glue until her assailant is caught. Melanie resists at first before realizing that she really does need his help. Their forced proximity leads to a rekindling of their attraction and strengthening of their feelings for each other. However, the obstacles to their relationship still exist, and it takes some out-of-the-box thinking to find a way to make it work.
 
The story's suspense is outstanding and kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. The details of the escalating attacks lead to a serial killer case that Melanie thought was closed. Unfortunately, the murderer was released because of a technicality, making him the top suspect. The twists and turns kept me guessing to the end, with a resolution I didn't see coming. 

How to Court a Rake - Bronwyn Scott (HH #1849 - Apr 2025)

Series: Wed Within a Year (Book 1)
 
Sparks fly when the wallflower…
waltzes with the rake!
 
When the Crown awards spy Caine Parkhurst the title of marquess, it's with the outrageous stipulation he marries within the year! Caine's catapulted into London's ballrooms in search of a bride, but the last thing the rakish bachelor is looking for is love…
 
Once a diamond, Lady Mary is now in danger of becoming a wallflower -- or, worse, being married off to a man of her father's choosing! To escape the relentless matchmaking, she agrees to a fake courtship with the new marquess. Yet his touch leaves her longing to court this rake…for real!
 
Terrific start to the new series. Caine and his brothers are known to Society as the Four Horsemen. They are rakes, well known for their outlandish behavior. Society doesn't know that these men are Crown operatives working in the shadows to keep their country safe. The King awards the men with titles, but they must marry within a year if they want to keep those titles.
 
Lady Mary tries hard to be the daughter her parents want and marry well. However, having been passed over by two dukes who chose to marry others, she is on track to becoming a wallflower. If she doesn't find a husband soon, her father will find one for her.
 
Caine and Mary meet at a ball where she impresses him with her intelligence and wit. However, when duty calls, and he leaves her in the middle of a dance, her reputation takes another hit. Caine feels guilty about the fallout and decides paying attention to her will stir up interest and maybe draw the attention of a more suitable husband. Complicating matters, Mary's father is a person of interest in Caine's latest investigation, and courting her will give him opportunities for his investigation.
 
I enjoyed seeing Caine and Mary's relationship develop. Caine doesn't plan to marry - he feels his work for the Crown makes it dangerous to have a family. However, Mary gets under his skin in ways he didn't expect. Caine has a rakish reputation, but underneath, he is an honorable man. I loved Caine's protectiveness as he got to know Mary. The opera scene was fantastic.
 
Caine intrigued Mary from the moment she met him. She didn't expect to trust him as quickly as she did, especially after he left her on the dance floor. I liked how they conspired to help each other. Caine will pretend to court her, while her presence will help protect him from matchmaking mamas. I loved seeing them get to know each other. It's evident that they are developing feelings for each other along with their growing attraction. When Mary meets the man her father wants her to marry, her instincts tell her she's in trouble.
 
Matters get complicated when Caine discovers a connection between Mary's suitor and his investigation. The action intensifies as Mary stands up for herself, with Caine's support, against her father's plan. But has Mary jumped out of the frying pan and into the fire when she learns the truth about Caine? The ending was a nail-biter, with Mary in danger. The final confrontation was intense, with some questions answered but others left open. I loved seeing Caine finally admit his feelings.
 
The story has two epilogues. The first shows what is in store for Caine and Mary's future and leads into the next book. This is Kieran's story, and continues the search for answers. The second epilogue may explain what happened to Stepan, the fourth brother and Horseman. I can't wait to read it.

Husband Material - Brenda Jackson (HQN - Feb 2020)

Matthew Birmingham is used to getting what he wants…and what he wants is his ex-wife. When she returns to their Hamptons estate for the summer, he vows to win her back. But Carmen Akins is hiding a tragic secret from their past that will put their reconciliation to the ultimate test.
 
Carmen, an actress, and Matthew, a Hollywood producer/director, have been divorced for a year. When they first married, they were deeply in love and talked about as one of Hollywood's golden couples. But Matthew's work began taking over his life, driving a wedge between them. The last straw was when he bailed on a special weekend Carmen had planned. She immediately filed for divorce.
 
As the book opens, Carmen has arrived at their home in the Hamptons, ready for some relaxation. She's stunned when Matthew appears at a local event, planning to stay at the house. Neither wants to give up their plans, so they agree to share the space. However, each has an underlying agenda of revenge. Carmen plans to seduce Matthew and then walk away, while Matthew also has seduction on his mind. Neither expects the strength of the attraction that still exists.
 
In their mutual attempt at seduction, Carmen and Matthew realize that something is still between them. They finally do what they should have done years ago - talk to each other and listen to what the other has to say. However, Carmen has one big obstacle to overcome before they can move forward - a devastating secret she kept from him. The ending was sweet and emotional. I liked their character growth in realizing that responsibility for their problems belonged to both of them.

 
 
 
 

Taming a Heartbreaker - Brenda Jackson (HSE #3047 - June 2024)

 

He's closed off to love. She's set on taming his wild ways. Let the sparks fly!
 
Redford St. James is having too much fun to settle down with just one woman. Until a Westmoreland family wedding reunites him with Carmen Golan. He can't get Carmen -- gorgeous, sweet and a hopeless romantic -- out of his mind. Even though she's outright said he's husband material! Him! And she believes any heartbreaker can be tamed -- by the right person. Well, it's his duty to set her straight!
 
But an intimate conversation becomes an intimate evening and a night that makes them wonder who's taming whom. And that night could have consequences in nine short months…
 
Two years earlier, Carmen saw Redford at a wedding and told her friend Leslie (What He Wants for Christmas), "That's the man I'm going to marry." Leslie tried to explain that she knows Redford and he will never marry. Carmen insists they are soulmates and it will happen. Redford hears about it and laughs but carefully avoids her.
 
After a brutal betrayal when he was younger (a senior in high school), Redford swore he would never marry or have children. He has kept his promise and is well known for his "one and done" approach to women. Fast forward to the present and they meet again at another wedding. The sparks between them are intense, and Redford wants her in his bed. Carmen believes that the right woman can tame a heartbreaker. "She would not pursue him. When the time was right, he would pursue her."
 
Meanwhile, Redford's confidence in his plans to seduce her is unwavering. She's been warned of his reputation. A starlit picnic leads to a passionate night, but Carmen's optimism takes a hit when he leaves without a word.
 
Shaken and confused, Redford doesn't understand why he can't get Carmen and their night together out of his mind. He's determined to regain control and knows what to do. His plan comes to a screeching halt when Redford learns Carmen is pregnant and at high risk of losing the baby. Though he had made his aversion to marriage and fatherhood clear to Carmen, he wouldn't turn his back on her and his child.
 
I enjoyed watching Carmen and Redford's relationship develop. Redford is determined to care for Carmen and prove to her that he wants to be part of their child's life. Understandably wary, Carmen agrees to let him stay. Redford's care for her is unexpectedly tender and intense, right down to his compulsive research on the best foods to aid with her sickness and giving her a pedicure. However, he still fights his feelings for her, attributing their growing connection to friendship. Carmen knows she loves him but won't say anything because she won't risk a repeat of his rejection. I liked the ending and the advice that got them past the fears and misunderstandings that held them back. 

 

Snowbound with the Brooding Lord - Sarah Mallory (HH #1762 - Dec 2023)

Will they forgive each other
By the time the snow melts…?
 
Years ago, Sabrina walked away from her first love, Jack, because she was duty-bound to marry for money instead. Now a widow, she finds herself back in Jack's intoxicating orbit, but he's reluctant to trust her again. And it's not just the brooding lord who has changed… Marriage has left a painful mark on Sabrina. So when they're trapped by a snowstorm, will they find a way to finally be together?
 
Good second chance story. Sabrina and Jack were in love six years earlier, and Jack was preparing to propose. Then, without explanation, her engagement to another man was announced, leaving Jack heartbroken and feeling betrayed. Now a wealthy young widow, Sabrina is back in London and enjoying the social scene until she encounters Jack.
 
I felt bad for Sabrina. Forced to marry a much older and dissolute man, her married life was miserable. Stuck playing hostess at his degenerate parties, Sabrina is tarred with the same brush and later nicknamed "The Wicked Widow." She does nothing to dispel the rumors. However, she is dissatisfied with her usual activities and yearns for something more. Meanwhile, Jack enjoys his bachelorhood and is in no hurry to marry, though sometimes he envies his friend Garrick's happiness.
 
When they meet again, it is evident that neither has forgotten the past. The sparks of attraction still burn between them. Sabrina regrets her actions back then and feels guilty about the pain she knows she caused him. Seeing Sabrina again stirs up the pain of her betrayal, he makes snarky comments instead of treating her with the friendly indifference he intended. Clearly, she still gets to him. After exchanging harsh words, each vows to avoid the other.
 
Fate has other plans, and Jack and Sabrina attend the same house party. They continue to be drawn to each other, and the attraction grows stronger with each encounter. Unfortunately, Jack cannot forgive and forget, and his hot and cold treatment of Sabrina irritated me. I had high hopes after their tryst during the house party, but an innocent comment by Sabrina sets Jack off yet again.
 
Determined to get away from each other, Jack and Sabrina leave the house party separately but end up together when a disabled carriage and a snowstorm forced them to take refuge in a home along the way. They must put aside their differences and work together to make it through the storm. With nowhere to run, Jack and Sabrina must face their past and decide if they can put it behind them for a future together. It was the equivalent of locking them in a room until they worked out their differences. I was happy to see Jack finally shut up and listen to Sabrina. However, there are still insecurities to overcome, and it takes a moment of danger to open their eyes to what they have to lose.
 
The ending was good, and I liked the epilogue.
 
References to political unrest run throughout the book without taking over. I liked the impact those events had on the story.

The Duke's Lance - C.H. Admirand (Dragonblade - Mar 2025)

Series: Duke's Guard (Book 12)
 
"Who in the world would marry me, just to ensure that I stayed at Wyndmere Hall?"
 
"That would be me, lass."
 
The winsome, ebony-haired lass with the violet faery-eyes captures O'Malley's heart when she steps down from the carriage, but it is the ugly dark bruise on her cheek that has his protective instincts offering his strength and the protection of his name.
 
O'Malley's stubborn pride takes a hit when the lass thanks him, but refuses his offer.
 
Helen Langley accompanied her mistress, the Duke's ward Emily, to Wyndmere Hall after a perilous journey from London. The broad-shouldered, green-eyed, handsome giant barely knows her, yet offers her marriage.
 
Helen cannot accept O'Malley's offer, her past could ruin their future!
 
O'Malley is willing to wait when she leaves for the Borderlands intent on securing a position as a companion. But the man who murdered Emily's father has Helen in his sights and follows her. When she is abducted -- twice -- Helen must decide whether to trust O'Malley and accept his offer, or keep her past hidden and live with the pain of her broken heart for the rest of her life.
 
Danger stalks in the night, but it will have to get past The Duke's Lance before he will let harm come to those he has sworn to protect with his strength, his honor, and his heart.
 
This book picks up shortly after The Duke's Defender. In that book, Aiden Garahan escorts the Duke's ward, Emily, and her companion, Helen, to Wyndmere Hall. Aiden fell in love with Emily and married her, and they now live in a cottage at Wyndmere Hall. Helen is no longer needed as Emily's companion and has been helping the staff in order to feel useful. Helen stated her intention to take a companion position to an elderly woman. Her friends attempt to dissuade her, telling her to marry someone there. She's stunned to hear Eamon O'Malley's answer to her question of who on earth would marry her.
 
"That would be me, lass." Eamon, willingly following in his brothers' and cousins' footsteps, fell for Helen the moment he saw her. The sight of her injuries aroused his protective instincts. Unfortunately, convincing the stubborn and independent Helen is a challenge, and Eamon resigns himself to wait for her to fulfill her companion duties. When word reaches Wyndmere Hall of trouble at Helen's destination, Eamon rushes to her rescue. The Duke's reaction when he found out was fantastic - you don't mess with the people the Duke considers his! He also comes through in a big way for Eamon.
 
I ached for Helen and everything she experienced. The elderly employer was a bitter, vicious woman whose actions were inexcusable. Helen's situation worsened after the dowager ejected her from the house, alone and on foot. Helen couldn't catch a break at all. Past trouble catches up with her, threatening her life. The action kept me glued to the pages as I awaited the outcome. It definitely lived up to my expectations.
 
I loved seeing Eamon and Helen's relationship develop. His feelings for her run bone deep as he knows she is the one for him. He is loyal and protective and determined to marry her. Helen loves him too but believes he would turn away if he knew her past. I loved Eamon's steadfast determination to win his lady and how his patience pays off. I loved seeing Helen finally accept that her past is just another part of her that makes her who she is and that Eamon loves all of her. The epilogue was fantastic. I loved the peek at their future, and Eamon's conversations with God made me laugh out loud.
 
As always, I loved the interactions among the members of the Duke's Guard. Eamon endures a fair amount of teasing from the others because of his focus on Helen. The morning after the wedding was hilarious. I also love the relationships between the noble ladies and the women who work for them. The warmth and caring erase the class distinctions. I loved the scene where the married ladies gave Helen "the talk," especially when they sent for the brandy and the Irish whiskey. In this book, Eamon and his cousin, Dillon Flaherty, interact a lot. With his vocal insistence that he won't be falling for any woman, I suspect he is the next one to eat his words.

Spilling the Tea - Brenda Jackson (HQN - Apr 2025)

Series: Madaris Family (Book 23)
 
Ninety-something Mama Laverne is determined to find all of her great-grandchildren their perfect match before going home to glory. So far, her success rate is 100 percent -- and she intends to keep it that way.
 
After sustaining injuries in Iraq, Chancellor Madaris was told he'd never walk again. Chance credits his great-grandmother Mama Laverne with giving him the will to heal and prove the doctors wrong. He has a healthy respect for her meddling ways and knows he'll eventually end up next on her matchmaking list.
 
When Zoey Pritchard was eight, she survived a car accident that took the lives of her mother and father, and was sent to live with her great-aunt who refused to speak about her parents. Zoey has no memory from before the crash, but she's been having the same dream over and over…
 
Searching for answers, Zoey travels to Houston, where she uncovers a scandal involving her parents and the wealthy and powerful Madaris family. Her trail leads her straight to Chance's door. The dislike and intense attraction are instant and simultaneous. But to help Zoey restore her memory, he grudgingly introduces her to his great-grandmother…
 
Was it chance, or Mama Laverne's plan, that threw this pair together?
 
Terrific book. I have read a few of the Madaris family books, but I need to read the others. Mama Laverne, matriarch of the family, vowed to find perfect matches for all her great-grandchildren. She has a 100 percent success rate so far, but some of the guys are determined to foil her efforts. The prologue of this book opens with Chance and his cousin, Corbin, discussing the problem. Corbin's precautions are over-the-top, while Chance accepts that he will eventually end up on her list.
 
Thanks to a broken engagement, Chance is in no hurry as he has trust issues. He served in the military, and when he came home in a wheelchair, unable to walk, his fiancée walked away. He credits Mama Laverne with motivating him to prove the doctors wrong. He's back to normal, physically, but limits himself to one-night stands.
 
We also meet Zoey. Injured in a car accident that killed her parents when she was eight, she has no memory of her life before the accident. Zoey was raised by her aunt, who refused to discuss her parents. She is now an orthopedic surgeon and professor at Johns Hopkins. When her aunt dies, Zoey finds some information about her parents that sends her to a ranch near Houston, looking for answers.
 
The first meeting between Chance and Zoey doesn't go well. Chance jumps to conclusions about Zoey, which angered her. I enjoyed watching her tear into him and call him out on it. Once he learns what she is looking for, Chance introduces her to Mama Laverne.
 
The book is a terrific mix of present and past, as Laverne remembers the events that happened between the two families. The past is rife with tragedy, lies, and heartbreak, and I ached for these ancestors of the present-day characters. Laverne kept these secrets for many years, but it may be time to lay the past to rest.
 
I loved watching Zoey learn about her past. For the past several months, she's had flashes of what might be memories of her parents. Those flashes occur more frequently now; she believes they are actual memories, not wishful thinking. Zoey receives family photo albums and diaries that her mother's best friend saved. These items play a critical role in Zoey's discoveries.
 
I enjoyed seeing Chance and Zoey's relationship develop. Underneath their initial antagonism were intense sparks of attraction. But Chance doesn't do relationships, and Zoey doesn't do meaningless flings, so they try to bury their feelings. However, they spend a lot of time together, and as friendship grows, so do their feelings. It was amusing to see Chance work so hard at denying what he felt when everyone around him could see he was falling for her. Zoey recognizes her feelings sooner. Things start to look up for them until Chance's ex-fiancée shows up, determined to take him back.
 
As more of the past comes to light, Laverne must decide how many secrets she will divulge. Matters become complicated when a surprise connection turns dangerous to Laverne and Zoey. That confrontation was intense and unexpected, and I was on the edge of my seat until it was over. The ending was sweet and emotional. I loved seeing Zoey and Chance overcome the obstacles of their pasts. The epilogue was fantastic. I loved the conversation between Zoey and Laverne.
 
The author writes about wonderful family relationships. The relationship dynamics of the past were fascinating, with love, jealousy, honor, and stubborn pride playing a role. The current family illustrates its close ties with how they support each other, look out for each other, and occasionally call each other out when needed. Throughout it all, it is clear that Mama Laverne is the glue that holds them together.

 

The Loyalty of a Lyon - Linda Rae Sande (Dragonblade - Mar 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 74)
 
He’s the widowed Marquess of Hawke. She’s a wealthy spinster named for Apollo. Will a conniving cousin thwart a matchmaker’s plans to see they end up together?
 
Robert Strathford, Marquess of Hawke, had thought to spend his older years traveling the world with his beloved wife, but when Eleanor dies in a carriage accident, he’s left heartbroken—and broke. While he was on the Continent, his man of business made off with most of his fortune, his whereabouts unknown.
 
After two years of mourning both his wife and his livelihood, he’s in need of a matchmaker—his past two attempts to land a wife using the Black Widow of Whitehall failed when he couldn’t win the strange games he had to play at The Lyon’s Den. He is determined Mrs. Dove-Lyon find him a wealthy wife. Will the third time be the charm?
 
Spinster Apollonia Alexander, the only daughter of a wealthy trader, has lived her entire life on the move. Her father chose to take her with him when he traveled to various ports and marketplaces, negotiating with ships’ captains and export houses for fabrics and trinkets for the British market. When he suddenly dies, she is devastated. Although her inheritance is substantial, her cousin inherits the Alexander Trading Company. Christopher will end up with her and her fortune if she’s unable to land a husband—she needs a male relative to access her funds.
 
Not about to marry her cousin, Apollonia seeks the services of a matchmaker. Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon promises a respectable marriage to a loyal man if she can handle life with a Hawke.
 
But will he be able to handle her?
 
This was an excellent addition to the Lyon's Den series. It sticks with the marriage of convenience theme, connecting wealthy women with men who need their money. This one is a little different because Robert and Apollonia are a mature couple. The story is fast-paced with touches of humor, intrigue, and steam.
 
Robert, Marquess of Hawke, is a forty-five-year-old widower on the edge of financial ruin due to past bad investments and embezzlement by his man of business. Robert needs an infusion of funds to care for the estate and his tenants until the crops begin producing again. Twice before, he had enlisted the help of Mrs. Dove-Lyon, but both times, he lost the wagers to other men. This time he insists on a straight-up match, no games. I liked the conversation between Robert and Mrs. Dove-Lyon as they worked out the particulars.
 
Apollonia is a thirty-four-year-old spinster. After her mother's death when Apollonia was five, she accompanied her merchant father on his travels around the world, learning the business and acting as his hostess. When her father dies, her cousin Christopher inherits the company, while Apollonia inherits her father's fortune. Unfortunately for her, she can't access any of those funds without a male relative present. Her lawyer suggests she appeal to Mrs. Dove-Lyon for help finding a suitable husband. Allowing Christopher anywhere near her inheritance is the last thing Apollonia wants.
 
Apollonia's meeting with Mrs. Dove-Lyon goes quite well. She knows what she is looking for in a husband. I had to laugh at Mrs. Dove-Lyon's reaction, as she has never had two people so ideally suited to each other. She quickly makes arrangements for them to meet and marry.
 
Apollonia arrived at the Lyon's Den just as Robert was leaving. Her appearance intrigues him, causing him to wait around until she leaves. She gets a little freaked out when he approaches her about the gown she is wearing and makes her escape as quickly as possible. Robert increases the tension by following her to her hotel. Despite her wariness, Apollonia does note that she is attracted to him.
 
Both are surprised the next day when they show up to meet their prospective spouse. I loved their honest exchange of expectations and practical planning as they spent time getting to know each other. Their first kiss rapidly becomes intense, culminating in a tour of his home.
 
Robert and Apollonia's wedding goes smoothly, but settling financial matters is complicated by outside shenanigans. I loved Mrs. Dove-Lyon's involvement and the information she uncovered. The resolution with Apollonia's cousin was not what I expected. The epilogue was fantastic.
 
There is also a surprise below-stairs secondary romance. I laughed out loud at the interactions between these characters and rooted for everything to work out for them. 

An American Doctor in Ireland - Karin Baine (HMED #1378 - Mar 2024)

CAN A FLING LEAD TO FOREVER?
 
American doctor Mae Watters arrives in Dublin, determined to escape her recent heartbreak. This move is about finding a new life, and the last thing on her mind is romance! So why can't she resist the man she meets at the St. Patrick's Day parade, her sexy colleague, Dr. Liam O'Conner? He's a single dad with baggage of his own! Will a passionate fling give them the confidence to move forward -- together?
 
Irish-American doctor Mae Watters moved to Dublin after being left at the altar by her Irish fiancé. She arrives just in time for the annual St. Patrick's Day parade, but it emphasizes how alone she is instead of making her happy. The day goes downhill when another attendee and his daughter crash into her. He rubs her the wrong way with his attempts at humor, and she's about to walk away when a parade participant falls and breaks his leg. Mae and Liam discover they are doctors at the same hospital as they clash over helping the victim.
 
Liam is the single dad of seven-year-old Shannon. Since Shannon's mother left him, he's devoted his life to his daughter and his job. His parents jump in to help when he needs them.
 
Sparks of attraction flare from the moment Mae and Liam meet, even though neither is interested in a relationship. They work together to care for the victim's (also Liam's neighbor) dog and find their animosity diminishing. I enjoyed seeing their feelings shift as they cared for Brodie. Giving in to the sparks via a no-strings fling seems the best option, with neither expecting to want more. Just as they contemplate confessing to their changed feelings, a medical crisis with Shannon stirs Liam's insecurities, and he pulls away, leaving Mae once again facing a heartbreaking loss. I wanted to shake Liam for being so blind and cheered when he got a kick in the pants from an unexpected source. But will Mae give him another chance?
 
I liked the ending and how Liam and Mae decided to stop allowing the past to keep them from moving forward, helped along by Shannon. The epilogue was a nice look at how their relationship progressed over the following few months.

Special Forces K-9 - Julie Miller (HI #2268 - Feb 2025)

Series: Protectors at K-9 Ranch (Book 3)
 
A former soldier and his dog
are about to come to her rescue
 
After a heroic career, Special Forces ex-soldier Ben Hunter is fighting a new battle: adjusting to civilian life. But when the life of his occupational therapist is threatened, the wounded vet and his service dog, Rocky, spring into action. Maeve Phillips believes her friend was murdered and won't stop until she tracks down the killer…who is now hunting her. Nobody's going to harm Maeve on Ben's watch. Now a predator is about to find out what it feels like to be prey.
 
Another fantastic addition to this series. The two main characters of this book were secondary characters in The Evidence Next Door, and I am so happy that they got their own story. Ben is a former Special Forces soldier, wounded in an attack that left his men and his K-9 partner dead. He lost his career and left hand and must now adjust to civilian life. He applies for a job as a dog trainer at the K-9 Ranch, where he meets Rocky. Rocky is a military working dog who lost his human partner and hasn't bonded with anyone else. He isn't adapting well and is at risk of being put down. When Ben and Rocky connect, ranch owner Jessie realizes the two might be just what each other needs.
 
Maeve is Ben's occupational therapist. She has been working with him for almost a year. I loved how she sees past his grumpy, growly attitude to the frustrations that fuel his anger. He intimidates some people, but he doesn't scare her; in truth, she feels safe with him.
 
The book opens with Maeve and her roommate, Stephanie, at a bar. Maeve is an introvert and very shy, so this isn't her scene, but supporting her friend is important to her. Stephanie wants to reconnect with her ex-boyfriend, whom Maeve believes is abusive. The scene at the bar is creepy, and Maeve rightfully worries about her friend. Within a few days, Stephanie disappears, Maeve is followed and mugged, and her house is ransacked.
 
Ben notices Maeve's injuries and distraction, and when she tells him about trouble, he and Rocky go into protective mode. I enjoyed watching the relationship between Maeve and Ben develop. They've worked together on his therapy for almost a year, with an interest in more growing between them. Ben wonders what he could offer this woman he admires so much. Maeve is just as drawn to Ben, but her shyness keeps her from doing anything about it. Maeve's protection becomes Ben and Rocky's mission, and their feelings deepen as they spend time together. I loved Maeve's calming effect on Ben, where just her touch settles him.
 
I loved how Maeve found it so easy to lean on Ben as her troubles continued. His care of and for her means the world to her. He is still gruff and growly, but there is an underlying softness that she didn't expect. I laughed when he called her "freakin' adorable" when comparing his "sort-of-friend" Maeve to the "itch-under-my-skin" Maeve. I also loved the effect Maeve had on Ben. He is more open with her about his challenges because of her gentleness and patience. I loved his vocal pride in her resilience. Their growing comfort with talking about their feelings was terrific, and I loved how each of them saw into the other's heart. The ending was fantastic.
 
The suspense kept me just as enthralled as the romance between Maeve and Ben. I  figured out pretty quickly who was after Maeve, but the motivation was a mystery. The escalating attacks were a good indication of the bad guy's growing desperation. The final confrontation kept me glued to the pages until it was over.
 
I loved Rocky. His backstory is heartbreaking, and the outlook for his future is dismal. I loved seeing the impact that he and Ben had on each other. Maeve was an unexpected light in their lives, and Rocky immediately accepted her as part of his pack. I loved the scene where he and Maeve met. He is as protective of her as Ben is and plays a significant role in the final confrontation. 

 
 

Bodyguard Rancher - Kacy Cross (HRS #2308 - Jan 2025)

Series: Secrets of Hidden Creek Ranch (Book 2)
 
It's his job to protect her
Will she let him?
 
A former Navy SEAL, Heath McKay knows how to stay cool in life-and-death situations. Keeping Charli Lang safe while archaeologists dig up the treasure buried on her ranch should be easy. But Charli might prove to be more than he can handle. She doesn't want a bodyguard, even one posing as an undercover rancher, and she's as captivating as she is contrary. Wagering that he can change her mind within three weeks seems like the perfect way to keep her close -- until their romantic sparring starts to feel like the real thing….
 
In the previous book (Undercover Cowboy Protector), stolen artifacts were found on ranch property. Now, the place is crawling with archaeologists and their staff, interfering with the sisters' plans for the ranch. Although an attempt to steal the items failed in the first book, and the culprit was captured, security is still tight for the sisters.
 
Heath is the bodyguard assigned to watch over Charli. A former SEAL, he was known as "The Enforcer" on his team. Unfortunately for him, Charli doesn't want a bodyguard and delights in giving him the slip. That ends when she attempts to fight off a handsy archaeologist and Heath steps in, and then Heath discovers an unknown someone watching the activities on the ranch. The situation becomes more complicated when a gold jaguar figure is found.
 
The tension between Charli and Heath leaps off the page. The sparks of attraction between them are unexpected and unwelcome. Charli recently left a bad relationship, and Heath is in love with another woman. However, Heath bets Charli that he can change her mind about men's trustworthiness in three weeks, while she maintains that he can't.
 
I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Whenever Charli is near him, she scrambles Heath's mind, which he finds incredibly frustrating when trying to keep her safe. The more time they spend together, the closer they grow. I liked how they shared their past relationship problems and loved the reactions to the so-called issues. Neither one wants to admit to their growing feelings for each other, preferring to call it "practice" for Heath to regain his old girlfriend. But when the ex-girlfriend, Margot, shows up, Charli's old insecurities flare up, and she pulls away. Meanwhile, Heath must decide if he still loves Margot or if his heart has discovered a better home. I loved Heath's "aha" moment; his bet pay-off scene at the end was fantastic.
 
The suspense of the story kept me turning the pages. The discovery of a second jaguar figure ramped up the danger as it became evident that someone wanted them. When someone succeeded in stealing the statues, Heath immediately set out to find them. It didn't take long for him to figure out the culprit. The final confrontation was intense, but I did not doubt how it would turn out.
 
I liked the epilogue and look forward to Veronica's story.

Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidels - Jennifer Wilck (HSE #3068 - Nov 2024)

Series: Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah (Book 3)
 
Her childhood crush may be her best story yet.
 
Journalist Jessica Sacks's career is on the line if she doesn't ace this next assignment. She must interview firefighter Thomas Carville, Browerville's celebrated hero -- and her forever crush since childhood. When Jessica returns home for Hanukkah, handsome Thomas takes her breath away. And rudely shuts her down when she asks for an interview.
 
Thomas knows he and the man he saved are both lucky to be alive, regardless of his actions. And now Jessica is poking into his business. Thomas would rather kiss her under the mistletoe than answer her questions. But his priority is protecting his sobriety and his secret. They're as far apart as Christmas and Hanukkah, but even their differences can't trump the power of love.
 
Terrific holiday romance full of love, respect, and acceptance. Jessica is an investigative journalist who recently lost her job due to a mistake. Devastated by the loss of her career, which is so much a part of who she is, Jessica leaps at the chance to save her job. All she must do is cover her hometown's heroic firefighter rescue. That firefighter is Thomas, who was her next-door neighbor and childhood crush. Unfortunately for her, Thomas flat-out refuses to talk about the rescue.
 
Thomas doesn't want to talk about that day. Memories of the rescue haunt him, and he spends most of his time alone renovating his house. Though he has recovered from his injuries, he doesn't know what his future will be.
 
I enjoyed seeing Jessica and Thomas's relationship develop. Their first few encounters end awkwardly when he rudely refuses her interview requests. Jessica decides that making friends might make him more amenable to her requests. He feels guilty about his rudeness and accepts her friendship but remains wary. I liked watching them get to know each other, beginning with the holiday decoration contest. Neither expects the sparks of attraction that come along with spending time together.
 
There are obstacles to their growing relationship. Jessica is Jewish, and Thomas is not. This is a particular concern of Jessica's mother, who urges her to be cautious. I loved their open interest in and respect for each other's beliefs and watching them share their traditions.
 
Another issue is how Thomas is, or isn't, dealing with his feelings about the rescue. The secret he guards so carefully keeps him from fully trusting Jessica. When he inadvertently reveals that secret, he panics and pulls away. But Thomas can't forget his feelings for her and realizes he must deal with his past before contemplating a future with her. Thomas impressed me with his determination and willingness to face that challenge.
 
Jessica has her own challenges to overcome. From her embarrassment about being fired to her growing discomfort about the article she must write, Jessica must decide what is more important to her. Is it getting her job back or listening to her conscience? I enjoyed following her thoughts and actions as she made her decision.
 
The ending was an emotional mix of apologies, confessions, and admissions of love. I liked seeing Jessica and Thomas overcome the challenges holding them back. I loved the Hannukah and Christmas scenes that brought both families together and the willingness to learn more about the others' traditions.
 
The love and support of families and friends are a big part of this book. I loved how Jessica's friends helped her see the truth of her feelings about Thomas and her job. Her parents gave her the foundation of love that gave her the strength to pursue her dreams. I liked how Thomas's father and siblings stood by him through his crisis. I especially liked his brother Liam and how he showed up unexpectedly when he felt Thomas needed him. I also liked how his sponsor, Carl, helped Thomas resolve his dilemma. 

 
 
 

Hawaiian Medic to Rescue His Heart - Annie O'Neill (HMED #1199 - Sept 2021)

Can she tempt this single dad…
To take a risk in paradise?
 
Divorced New York firefighter and paramedic Zach Murphy is looking forward to the more relaxed pace of Hawaiian life and building a brighter future for himself and his son. But his stunning new search and rescue colleague Lulu Kahale has the potential to derail his dreams of a quiet existence! Falling in love was never part of the plan, but Lulu tempts Zach to break all his own rules…
 
Zach and his six-year-old son, Harry, moved to Hawaii after his divorce. As a now-single dad of a special needs son, he needs day-to-day help if he's going to give Harry the best life possible. Zach's parents had moved to Hawaii earlier, so Zach went where he had support. Leaving his busy job as a firefighter and paramedic in Manhattan wasn't easy, but he looks forward to a more relaxed way of life. He did not expect the dynamo of coworker Lulu.
 
Lulu is the youngest of six, with five overprotective older brothers. Their grandmother raised them after their parents drowned when she was a child. Accustomed to dealing with her brothers, Lulu doesn't back down for anyone, even her hot new boss.
 
Lulu and Zach got off to a rough start. Lulu doesn't hesitate to bend the rules when she thinks it's necessary, and Zach is by the book. Adding to the antagonism, Lulu had applied for the job Zach has now, and he bought the house Lulu has been saving up to buy. Neither expected the intense attraction they felt for each other.
 
I enjoyed the development of Zach and Lulu's relationship. They got over their antagonism quickly once their tempers cooled. I liked how Lulu took the whole Murphy family under her wing and introduced them to island life. The more time they spent together, the stronger their attraction grew, and the harder it was to resist the feelings that came along. When they finally give in, the deepening of their relationship accelerates.
 
However, it may be too much, too fast, as the depth of their feelings stirs up old insecurities. Then, a distressing rescue call drives a wedge between them, each one lashing out in hurt and anger. I ached for both as each had to face their past before they could look to a future together. I loved the ending, and the epilogue was sweet.
 
Family is a huge part of this book. Lulu's large Hawaiian family is terrific. Her brothers' overprotectiveness comes from their deep love for their little sister, though it often frustrates her. They are always there to support each other when needed. I liked their grandmother and the wisdom she dispenses. However, my favorite secondary character is Zach's son, Harry. Though he has his challenges (cerebral palsy), he is such a happy and energetic kiddo that I looked forward to scenes with him. I loved his immediate bond with Lulu and his awe of Mak. 

 
 
 

Twenty-Eight Dates - Michelle Lindo-Rice (HSE #3038 - Mar 2024)

Series: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Book 3)
 
Not looking for a hero…
But she found one!
 
When pregnant widow Courtney Meadows steals away from her duplicitous in-laws in the dead of night, she has one goal: to protect her baby. An unexpected car breakdown miles away and a looming hurricane are the last things she needs! Enter a gruff knight in shining armor in Officer Brigg Harrington. Courtney's compelled by the lawman's compassion and integrity…and she has to admit he makes her pulse race in a way no one has since the tragic death of her firefighter husband. But can a woman as independent and wounded as Courtney let anyone else into her life again -- especially another man courting danger in uniform?
 
Widowed and pregnant, Courtney caught my attention from the first page. After overhearing her in-laws plotting to seize custody of her baby, she sneaked away from their home in the wee hours of the morning. Her destination - her sister's apartment in Ft. Lauderdale. Unfortunately, her car broke down on the way, stranding her on the side of the road. She's rescued by police officer Brigg Harrington, who shelters her in his home.
 
I enjoyed watching Courtney and Brigg's relationship develop. There is no way Brigg can abandon the pregnant beauty. What he doesn't expect is the compulsion he feels to watch over her or the intense attraction when she is near. At the same time, Courtney tries to bury the feelings Brigg stirs in her. The last thing she wants is to fall for another man with a dangerous job.
 
They cannot deny the connection they feel from the beginning, nor their fast friendship. But Courtney is still determined to continue to her sister's place. However, the baby's early arrival keeps her in town longer than planned. Brigg shows Courtney that he is interested in seeing where their relationship is going, but she is wary of risking her heart again. Brigg's plan for twenty-eight dates while they wait for Jayson to get out of the hospital is a clever way for them to get to know each other better. I loved seeing Brigg fall under the baby's spell.
 
A tense situation that put Brigg in danger resurrected Courtney's fears, driving a wedge between them. I ached for both as they faced the future without each other. I loved seeing their loved ones help them see past the obstacles keeping them apart with some well-placed advice. The conclusion was sweet and emotional.
 
I liked spending more time with the Harrington family. The dynamics between the brothers are fun - lots of teasing but all the support needed when things get tough. It was fun to see the couples from the earlier books, especially watching the brothers give advice to Brigg. 

Cold Case Murder Mystery - Nicole Helm (HI #2272 - Mar 2025)

Series: Hudson Sibling Solutions (Book 7)
 
He's retired from the protector business, but a dangerous discovery changes everything
 
Rancher Zeke Daniels left his secret agent career -- and his doomed romance with Brooke Campbell -- in the past. Until the forensic anthropologist stumbles across Bent County's sinister secret…and attracts a stalker in the process. Brooke refuses to quit the job. And there's no way in hell Zeke will leave her unprotected. But as his professionalism is challenged by their lingering feelings, his determination to protect remains steadfast -- from the stalker, the danger and the violent serial killer using the caves as his burial ground…
 
This was an intriguing mystery with a second-chance romance. Zeke and Brooke worked with the North Star Operations, where they became more than coworkers. When North Star closed its doors, Zeke walked away from their relationship and bought a ranch in Wyoming. Brooke continued her career as a forensic anthropologist. He recommended Brooke to local law enforcement when bones turned up in a cave near his home (Cold Case Discovery).
 
Brooke identified those bones and helped catch the killer, but now she has found more bones that are much older. While working on identifying these remains, Brooke believes she is being followed. Despite her past with Zeke, she contacts him about her concerns. Zeke doesn't hesitate to step in to protect her. The tension between the former lovers is palpable as both try to keep their past out of the equation. However, neither can deny the attraction that still exists.
 
Zeke is determined to keep Brooke safe even though she resists many of his efforts. Brooke is determined to protect her heart, which results in her trying to keep distance between them. This also includes keeping possibly vital information from him, making his job more difficult. During their time together, Zeke slowly realizes that walking away from her was as much to protect himself as her. The question is, can he convince Brooke that he's ready for a different outcome? Can Brooke trust that he won't walk away again?
 
The suspense of the story was great. From the unexpected identity of Brooke's stalker to the final confrontation in the cave, I couldn't put the book down. When Zeke and Brooke discover a connection to the Sons of the Badlands, a gang North Star thought they'd wiped out, Zeke calls on his old friends for help. The final confrontation regarding the cave bones was creepy, terrifying, and nightmare-inducing. Meanwhile, the blast from the past confrontation outside the cave was intense and exciting.

An Alaskan Arrangement - Michelle Lindo-Rice (HSE #3083 - Mar 2025)

Series: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Book 4)
 
It was smooth sailing
Until they tied the knot.
 
When cruise ship assistant manager Kaylin Sampson is passed over for a promotion, she takes a break to regroup. And when her sexy ex offers to reignite their old fling and accompany her on an Alaskan adventure, Kaylin can't say no. Ethan Harrington knows how to get her out of her funk. Fun is the theme for the week, down to the white water rafting and their fabulous old-timey fake wedding. Except the paperwork is genuine -- and now two commitment-phobes are married. The real question is, will it be for better or for worse?
 
Good second chance story. Kaylin and Ethan met when her sister married his brother. The sparks between them were instant and intense, and they had a good time giving in to them. Neither is interested in anything permanent. Ethan isn't ready to give up his bachelor ways, and Kaylin's childhood left her determined not to depend on anyone other than herself. But when Kaylin realized Ethan occupied her thoughts more than she liked, she broke things off to protect her heart.
 
Back on the cruise ship where she works as an assistant manager, Kaylin learns that she was passed over for the promotion she wanted. Disappointed, she takes a well-deserved vacation, a cruise to Alaska. Meanwhile, back in Florida, Ethan hasn't been able to forget his time with Kaylin. When he hears about her disappointment and her cruise plans, he decides to show up on the cruise and see if they can pick up where they left off.
 
Kaylin is not exactly pleased by Ethan's arrival. She has buried herself in work, trying to drive him from her thoughts. Unexpected circumstances result in them sharing a suite on the ship, and Ethan convinces her to participate in excursions with him. One excursion results in them missing the boat and being stranded in a small town. Matters get complicated when the only available inn requires couples to be married if they share a room. (Okay, that's a bit of a stretch, but it was a cute concept). Unfortunately, the wedding they thought was pretend for appearances was legit. Now what?
 
Though they plan a quick divorce after the trip, they spend the rest of their time in Alaska playing newlyweds in all ways. After the "honeymoon" ends, they are in no rush to end things. I enjoyed seeing them grow closer and eventually admit their feelings for each other. But Kaylin's insecurities flare up over career decisions. There is trouble in paradise when her needs run into Ethan's pride. I understood Kaylin's decision and wanted to shake Ethan for being so blind. I loved the ending and seeing both realize their mistakes. Their reunion was sweet and emotional, with a nice little surprise.
 
Family is a big theme in this book. Kaylin and her sister Courtney had an awful childhood, and their bond is undeniable. They have had only one another to depend on for most of their lives. I loved how they supported each other through good and bad times. Ethan's family of seven brothers are also very close. Their interactions are terrific, whether they are teasing each other or providing support. 

 
 
 

Till the End of Time - Elise Title (HAR #377 - Feb 1991)

Series: Century of American Romance (Book 9)
 
A CENTURY OF AMERICAN ROMANCE 1890s--1990s
 
Her love hasn't got a chance. David Nichols has always been practically family. But while it may not be cool for David to dig his best friend's little sister, there is nothing sisterly about the way Annie Magill feels about him.
 
Now stationed at an evac hospital on David's base in Vietnam, Annie is David's link to happier times. Sultry nights ignite the flames of their passion, but Annie's heart is chilled when David reveals his dream of putting the war behind him.
 
Bravery, fear, camaraderie and risk--all are part of what Annie and David have come to mean to each other in Vietnam. How will their love survive if David denies what they lived through and what they rose above ...together?
 
This was a terrific book. The author's note at the back of the book speaks of her motivation for writing this story. How she watched the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and saw the women in uniform, women whom she'd never thought about before. Driven to understand their courage, she went on to read books and articles, many written in their own words. They had a profound impact on her life.
 

"These unique and remarkable women remain a haunting presence in my mind. I wanted to write a story that would show not only their valor and sacrifice, but one that would also capture their humor, their vulnerabilities, their passion, and their loves."

 
I believe that she succeeded far more than she could have imagined. I'm old enough to remember the Vietnam War. I was ten when my dad spent a year there as a combat correspondent for the Armed Forces Vietnam Network (AFVN). He didn't talk much about it, but I remember the few stories he could share. Annie and David's story brought that time into vivid focus.
 
Annie and David grew up in the same town. David was her brother Turner's best friend, along with their other friend, Hawk. Annie was the typical pesky little sister, tagging along whenever she could. While "the boys" were all family to her, her feelings for David were always a little more. When the war came calling, Hawk was the first to go - and to be sent home with a devastating injury. David is next to go and assigned to a special operations unit. Feeling a need to do her part, Annie joins the Army Nurse Corps as soon as she graduates.
 
Annie works at an evac hospital in Long Binh, the same base where David is stationed. While he is unhappy that she is in Vietnam, he can't deny that her presence reminds him of happier times. It also emphasizes the horror of his experiences in the field. I ached for David as he tried to separate the two parts of his life, but as the book goes on, you can see the strain he is under.
 
I loved following Annie as she experienced life as a military nurse. Her caring and compassion for "her boys" leap off the page. We can see her struggles as she patches them up to send them back into danger. She forms friendships with other women, such as Sue Ellen, one of the Red Cross workers. There is girl talk, mutual support when things get tough, and a few fun times squeezed in. Another friend is Jessie, a freelance journalist reporting on the war. She brings a new perspective to Annie, showing her the human side of the war and introducing her to Luong and Tai, two Vietnamese orphans. Jessie also sees something special in Annie, and I loved what she did with that knowledge.
 
I loved the development of Annie and David's relationship. It begins as friends, familiar faces in an ocean of stress. But Annie never let go of her crush on David, and the more time they spend together, the more her feelings grow. David fights his feelings, refusing to think about the future, fearing he won't have one. But as the months go on, he can no longer deny those emotions. As their love for each other grows, Annie dreams of a special future for them, knowing that their time in Vietnam has had an enormous impact on them. But David wants to forget everything about Vietnam, and Annie fears their love won't survive if he doesn't acknowledge what brought them together.
 
There is another significant reason that Annie refuses to forget her time in Vietnam. I loved her determination to make this journey and ached for her as David refused to participate. All she could do was hope he could overcome his bitter feelings and come back to her. The ending was a rollercoaster of emotions, surprises, and the prospect of having everything she dreamed of. 

 
 

The Duchess Charade - Emily E.K. Murdoch (HH #1847 - Mar 2025)

Series: Wallflower Academy (Book 3)
 
A wallflower breaks free…
Only to fall hard -- for the duke!
 
Adventurous, free-spirited Sylvia Bryant has no intention of entering the London marriage mart -- she plans to return to Antigua and her mother, whom she was forced to leave. But first that means breaking free from her prison of a finishing school! Only when she makes her daring escape, the last thing she expects is to literally land in a duke's lap! Now Sylvia and Theodore are forced into an engagement, which Sylvia certainly doesn't want to make permanent. Yet if their union is just for show, why does her attraction to Teddy feel dizzyingly real?
 
Good book. Sylvia has been at the Wallflower Academy for several years. She was sent there, not because she was a wallflower but because she didn't fit into her father's expectations. She was born in Antigua and forced to leave her mother to go to England. Determined to avoid the London marriage mart, she plots her escape from the Academy and return to Antigua, never expecting to find herself engaged to a duke.
 
Teddy Featherstonehaugh was doing a favor for a friend when a beautiful woman jumped into his carriage and attempted to convince him to aid in her escape. No matter what he says or does, she talks over him, refusing to give up her plan. Her plans are foiled when the headmistress, Miss Pike, finds her in the carriage in an awkward position. Miss Pike declares her compromised and insists that Sylvia and Teddy marry.
 
Neither wants to marry, but they recognize they are in a tough spot. After a short private discussion, Teddy and Sylvia agree to an engagement for their own reasons. Being engaged to Teddy frees Sylvia up for visits to London, enabling her to make arrangements for her voyage to Antigua without interference. Teddy, who isn't really a duke, can use Sylvia's help in his search for the identity of his father.
 
I enjoyed the development of Teddy and Sylvia's relationship. Both are illegitimate and know what it feels like to be an outsider. I loved how they found it easy to talk to each other and share their hopes and fears. Their conversations are fun, with neither one afraid to be honest with the other. I laughed at Teddy's frequent state of befuddlement around Sylvia, often losing his train of thought. Neither expected the sparks of attraction or the feelings that grew between them.
 
But until Teddy knows who he is, he cannot ask Sylvia to marry him. Unfortunately, once his identity is confirmed, Sylvia's fears keep her from accepting her heart's desire. It takes a great deal of effort for Teddy to overcome those fears, but the results are fantastic when he does. The story doesn't end there. I loved seeing Teddy and Sylvia continue their unorthodox relationship with a wedding that is not the usual Society event. I loved the surprise wedding gift Teddy had for Sylvia.
 
The epilogue was terrific. I loved seeing that their new status hasn't changed Teddy and Sylvia significantly.