The Marriage Plan - Christine Rimmer (HSE #3119 - Dec 2025)

Series: Bravo Family Ties: The Next Generation (Book 6)
 
When old friends become newlyweds, love isn't part of the plan.
 
Forget true love! Joe Bravo wants to marry and start a family with someone he can trust. Someone like Macy Storm, his longtime friend and business partner. Joe trusts Macy with everything. They're already a great team in life -- why not in family? No passion, no drama. It's the perfect proposal.
 
Macy has never considered marrying without love, even though she's only known heartbreak. Yet Joe's proposal makes sense on many levels. Hearts safely locked away, Macy and Joe make their vows and start a new chapter as husband and wife. But their loveless wedded bliss may be short-lived when Macy breaks the one condition of their marriage: She's fallen in love with her husband.
 
Terrific friends-to-lovers story. This is the sixth book in the series following the second generation of the Bravo family, and I love catching up on the lives of the original characters. In this case, Joe is Nate and Meggie Bravo's son (Marriage by Necessity). He has seen their long and loving marriage, as well as those of other family members. However, Joe has been burned by love twice and refuses to go down that path again. Be that as it may, he still wants to marry and have a family, if he can find a woman he can trust. Who better than his best friend, Macy?
 
Macy moved home with her daughter, Ana, after she divorced her cheating husband. She works as a bookkeeper for her mom's florist business and Joe's hardware store. Though she wouldn't mind marrying again, trusting another man won't come easily. Joe's proposal surprises her, and she initially flatly refuses even to consider it. But Joe is persistent and eventually convinces her that it will work.
 
I loved watching Joe and Macy's relationship grow. Their long-standing friendship means they know each other very well. I loved the prologue, with its sampling of letters that show they've had each other's backs all their lives. Their marriage seems to be an easy extension of their friendship, and they settle quickly into marital bliss, including an unexpected amount of chemistry. That chemistry opened Macy's eyes to her changing feelings.
 
Matters become complicated when Joe's past comes calling. Macy's acceptance and embracing of the situation showed how much she trusted Joe. But does that trust extend to confessing her feelings? And what will Joe's response be? There were times when I wanted to shake him for being so blind, but I also understood his fear. Of course, I knew everything would work out, but the journey was emotion-packed and kept me hooked to the end. The epilogue was a nice peek at their future.
 
My favorite secondary character was Ana. Her relationship with Joe was sweet, and I loved how he thought of her as his. I couldn't understand how her father was so uninterested in having anything to do with her, though at least he lived up to his financial responsibilities. 

Amish Midwife Witness - Dana R. Lynn (LIS #1217 - Dec 2025)

Series: Amish Country Danger (Book 1)
 
She overheard something she shouldn't have…
Now she's in a killer's crosshairs.
 
After certified nurse midwife Vanessa Hall prevents a kidnapping attempt on a pregnant Amish patient, she becomes the target of a dangerous enemy. Lieutenant Carter Flint is determined to keep Vanessa safe as the police investigate an abduction and illegal adoption ring targeting Amish families. But after dodging several deadly attacks, Carter realizes the criminal seems to know their every move and no one can be trusted. Can they expose the kidnapper and stop his sinister plot before more innocent lives are put at risk?
 
Terrific start to the new series. The author excels at grabbing my attention from the first pages, and this was no exception. I stayed up way too late finishing the book because I could not put it down.
 
Vanessa is a certified nurse-midwife in a small clinic in western Pennsylvania. The clinic serves both Amish and non-Amish patients. As the story opens, Vanessa overhears another employee talking about kidnapping a pregnant Amish woman and selling the infant. Horrified, Vanessa confronts the woman and calls the police.
 
Lieutenant Carter Flint is one of two police officers who respond. They succeed in protecting the Amish woman before she is medevacked to another hospital, but the suspect employee is murdered as they leave the clinic. A second shot fired at Vanessa sends her scrambling for cover. Carter is determined to keep her safe, though Vanessa initially believes she is in no danger.
 
The suspense of this book was fantastic, and kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Vanessa and Carter quickly realize they are dealing with an illegal adoption ring that targets Amish families. They work together to identify potential targets while attempting to discover who is behind the ring. Their efforts are complicated by the need to escape several attacks, leading them to believe there is a leak in the investigation. The intensity ramped up with every attack until the shocking final confrontation. I loved Vanessa's ability to stay calm and controlled, especially in the aftermath. There was an unexpected twist at the end of that scene that complicated Carter's plans.
 
I enjoyed watching the development of Carter and Vanessa's relationship. The attraction was there from the start, but both have pasts that have affected their belief in themselves. Carter carries a load of guilt over his sister's death, feelings exacerbated by his mother's dementia-fueled accusations. Vanessa suffered a betrayal and tragedy years earlier that affected her faith and her relationship with her family. I liked seeing how Vanessa and Carter's time together helped them overcome their pasts and find love and healing together. The hospital scene was sweet and emotional, and the epilogue was adorable.
 
I loved meeting Vanessa's family. Their love and worry for their sister were evident in every scene. I especially enjoyed seeing them pull Carter into their family circle. I like the friendship between Carter and Brett, and hope to see him get his own story. He seems like a great guy. I also liked the references to LaMar Pond and Sutter Springs, as well as to the characters from some of those books.

 

A Hero's Return - Carrie Nichols (HSE #3107 - Sept 2025)

Series: Finding Forever in Sandy Shores (Book 1)
 
He knows how to be brave on a battlefield
Now he has to be brave with his heart
 
Years of military service taught decorated veteran Braden Sullivan how to be strong. It didn't teach him how to be vulnerable. Back in his Oregon hometown, with a job as a helicopter pilot and a two-family home to renovate, he's not at all prepared for his heart to take flight after meeting his tenant, Cassie Donovan. The widowed single mom is beautiful, charming…and terrified of loving another pilot after losing her husband in a crash. Overcoming her fears and his own uncertainties will take courage -- but isn't that what a hero soldier is for?
 
Good story of starting over. Cassie and her preteen daughter, Amelia, moved across the country from Massachusetts to Oregon three years after the death of her airline pilot husband. They needed a fresh start after the investigation's results became public. Cassie's sister lives in Sandy Shores, suggested they move there, and found them a place to rent.
 
Cassie's landlord is Braden, a veteran who moved back to his hometown to take care of the sister who helped raise him. After her death, he renovated her house and rented part of it to newcomer Cassie. He uses his military experience as a helicopter pilot in his new career with the fire department.
 
I enjoyed the first meeting between Cassie and Braden. Cassie is in the backyard right after they arrive, giving Amelia's Flemish rabbit some time out of his carrier when Braden appears. Immediately intrigued by her, the suddenness of it disturbs him, and his reaction to her isn't exactly welcoming. Cassie responds with her own snark, leaving both to wonder whether the arrangement will work out. Fortunately, Braden's conscience leads him to make amends quickly, which leads to a growing friendship.
 
There was a sweet connection between Braden and Amelia. I loved how lovely he was with her and how encouraging he was as she adjusted to her new life. His care for her touched Cassie's heart, and began to break down her walls. I enjoyed how they bonded over repairs and dinners as they slowly got to know each other.
 
But both have baggage that makes them wary of involvement. Although others look up to him as a hero, Braden's past haunts him, leading him to believe he is unworthy. He hesitates over declaring his feelings. It takes a heartwarming conversation with a special little girl to open his eyes. At the same time, Cassie wavers over the risks of giving her heart to another pilot, especially one with a dangerous job. She also had to face her fears and decide if she was willing to take a chance on happiness. The ending was terrific, and I loved the epilogue.
 
Cassie's daughter, Amelia, was terrific. She was mature for her age, thanks to the loss of her father, but still believable as a character. I liked how she connected with Braden and how he always treated her with respect. Her commentary on their relationship was fantastic.

 

Forbidden Fling with the Princess - Amy Andrews (HMED #1483 - Sept 2025)

Series: Royally Tempted (Book 2)
 
OFF LIMITS BUT IRRESISTIBLE…
 
World-class obstetric surgeon Edmund is furious that his long-awaited Seychelles retreat is hijacked by a helicopter carrying a smart-ass (if stunning) princess! Xiomara is determined to engage Edmund to save her cousin the King's unborn twins. He takes some persuading! Now in London together, a powerful attraction develops, and Xiomara learns Edmund's talents go far beyond surgery. He makes her feel empowered and free -- in every sense! Until the paparazzi discover their secret affair, reminding them they come from impossibly different worlds…
 
Fun and emotional story. Edmund, a famous obstetric surgeon, is enjoying his first vacation in five years when a helicopter carrying a determined princess interrupts his relaxation. Princess Xiomara needs his expertise to save her cousin, the King's unborn twins, and she won't take no for an answer.
 
I loved the first meeting between Edmund and Xio. He was not happy about the interruption, and she was determined to get her way. The back-and-forth of their "negotiation" was amusing, with Xio's offers becoming more and more excessive and Edmund's refusal to budge growing stronger, until she found the key to his cooperation. Once he decided to help, Edmund was all in, and matters moved swiftly.
 
I enjoyed the development of Edmund and Xio's relationship. The sparks flew from the moment they met, but their lives are so different that only a brief fling is possible. However, the more time they spend together, the deeper their feelings grow. Xio sees the man behind the fame, and likes what she sees. Edmund sees Xio as a woman, not just a princess, and gives her a taste of what life beyond the palace has to offer. But can Xio pry herself away from devoting herself to her country and grab at a chance for happiness and a different life? And can Edmund find a balance between the work that fulfills him and the family life that he yearns for? The emotional journey to their HEA was well done and believable.
 
I enjoyed the secondary characters. Despite their worry about the unborn babies, the King and his wife are not oblivious to what is happening between Edmund and Xio. I loved the little nudges and knowing looks that showed how much they wanted Xio's happiness. I also liked Xio's head of security, Xavier. He was unexpectedly mellow in his efforts to protect, and I loved how he aided and abetted Edmund and Xio's getaway.
 
This being a book in Harlequin's medical series, the core motivation was an intriguing health crisis. I had never heard of this particular issue and found the explanation and treatment fascinating. 

 
 
 
 
 

The Highlander's Mysterious Maiden - Nicole Locke (HH #1878 - Sept 2025)

Series: Lovers and Highlanders (Book 3)
 
A defiant Highland lass
To awaken the brooding warrior
 
Seoc of Clan Graham knows his scars run deep. How else to explain the emptiness he's felt inside since the battle that almost killed him? Nothing -- and no one -- has interested him, until the arrival of a beautiful and intriguing stranger on Beltane night…
 
Barabal has spent her life moving from clan to clan, always seeking but never finding a place to belong. Yet the Graham clan, and gruff Seoc in particular, call to her. Still, she's been abandoned before and is wary of drawing Seoc close, unless he can prove he won't abandon her too…
 
The blurb on this book intrigued me. Seoc is a warrior recovering from injuries and haunted by events that he blames on himself. His physical recovery has been slow, and his mental recovery even slower. He can't find anything or anyone that stirs his interest outside of his mead-making. That changes on Beltane night when a stranger arrives in the village.
 
Barabal has been on the move most of her life. After losing her parents as a child and being separated from her brothers, she's been looking for a place to belong. She arrives in the Graham village late on Beltane evening, hoping to make herself useful enough to be accepted.
 
I wanted to like this book. Seoc touched my heart with his survivor's guilt and his longing to feel normal again. His friends worry about him, but he can't pull himself out of his funk. Even during the celebrations, he remains on the edges. Then he's confronted by a beautiful stranger, and everything changes. Barabal sees a woman kidnapped, and no one else seems to notice or care. When she spots Seoc standing alone, she confronts him about the event and harangues him about not helping. She's blunt and rude and shocked that he is more interested in attempting to kiss her than helping the victim. She's unsure if she should try to stay or keep moving on.
 
Barabal was one of the most unlikable characters I have read in a long time. She wants to find a place to belong, but she is rude, abrasive, a know-it-all with no tact, and suspicious of everyone. Offers of help are met with skepticism and sarcasm. I kept waiting for her to see the possibilities and let go of the attitude, but I saw only minor changes.
 
Watching Barabal and Seoc's relationship develop was frequently painful and frustrating. She fascinates Seoc, and he can't stay away from her, even as she tries to avoid him. He stirs something in her, but trust is hard to come by. I liked how he tried to watch over her and help her even though she kept pushing him away. He sees past the harsh façade to the vulnerable woman, but is unsure how to reach her. Misunderstandings due to poor communication created tension. Sparks of attraction flare up, but even those lead to more misunderstandings. A well-meaning surprise engineered by Seoc backfires, but eventually leads to an emotional ending.
 
I liked the secondary characters, who were most likely the centerpieces of the other books in the series. I liked how the women accepted Barabal and tried to connect with her. There was a poignant scene that involved a couple of jugs of mead and some conversation about her past, which emphasized their empathy and understanding. I think there is hope for a strong friendship with them and Barabal in the future, especially if she can lose the attitude. I liked Seoc's friends and how they worried about him. 

 

Duty Compromised - Dominic Pierce (Calamitte Jane Pub - Nov 2025)

Series: Citadel Solutions (Book 3)
 
Ty Hughes handles the most dangerous protection assignments on the planet—it's what Citadel Solutions is built for. So babysitting some old computer scientist for a few weeks?
 
Boring as hell, but no problem.
 
Until he meets Dr. Charlotte Gifford.
 
She's not the gray-haired researcher Tyler expected—she's young, brilliant, and gets adorably flustered every time he looks at her. When her quantum-encrypted signal research is stolen by terrorists, someone wants her dead before she can rebuild what they need.
 
Charlotte has spent her whole life in labs, more comfortable with code than people. She eats lunch alone, speaks in programming logic when nervous, and definitely doesn't know what to do with a bodyguard who makes her forget her own name.
 
Now they're on the run with assassins on their trail and a traitor somewhere in her inner circle. Charlotte can reconstruct the tech that could save thousands—if Tyler can keep her alive long enough.
 
She's a genius with code, not running from terrorists.
He's trained for warfare, not falling for the woman he's protecting.
 
But when every ally becomes suspect and death waits around each corner, breaking all the rules might be their only chance at survival.
 
Another fantastic book in the Citadel Solutions series, and this may be the best one yet. The action was fast-paced, the suspense was intense, and the romance was adorable. The story is told from the dual first-person perspectives of Ty and Charlotte. The action scenes are especially vivid and made me feel as though I was right in the middle of it.
 
Recovering from injuries received on his last mission (Duty Devoted), Ty is on forced medical leave and going stir crazy. When an FBI friend asks him to watch over a scientist for a couple of weeks, he jumps at the chance. Hanging out in a lab should be an easy way to keep busy. The job turns complicated when the scientist becomes the target of terrorists who want to weaponize her work.
 
Charlotte is the picture of the absent-minded scientist. She is brilliant, having earned two doctorates by the time she was twenty. She gets so immersed in her work that the world around her disappears. She is uncomfortable around people, slips into scientific speech when nervous, and avoids social situations like the plague.
 
I loved the first meeting between Charlotte and Ty. He mistakes her for a receptionist, and he so discombobulates her that she comes across as a total ditz. Ty expected an older researcher, not a beautiful young woman he finds intriguing and adorable. The attraction between them is evident from the beginning, but Charlotte is unsure how to handle it, and Ty struggles to maintain a professional demeanor.
 
When word comes that her stolen program is about to be auctioned off to the highest bidder, Charlotte has days to come up with a program that will neutralize the threat. Ty's job is to keep her safe while she does it. That isn't easy, as the other side is determined to keep her from succeeding, and their efforts become increasingly dangerous. While struggling to stay one step ahead of the terrorists, Ty realizes that someone on the inside is working against them. I was glued to the pages as they raced toward a stunning climax. The twists and turns kept me guessing until the end.
 
I loved watching Ty and Charlotte's relationship develop. They are so different that it seems impossible for them to work as a couple. Ty is protective, and his observational skills enable him to adapt to their constantly changing circumstances. Charlotte is brilliant at what she does, but needs Ty to keep her safe. I loved watching Ty see past Charlotte's outer scientist to the vulnerable woman inside. His methods of caring for her were sweet and demonstrated his understanding of her. He's a little freaked out by his growing feelings for her because of his insecurities about his education.
 
Meanwhile, Charlotte finally identifies the feelings Ty stirs in her. She has trouble believing that a man like him is interested in her awkward self. I loved how they saw the best in each other. Charlotte is in awe of Ty's people skills, which she has never possessed, while Ty is blown away by Charlotte's intelligence and resilience. Together they make an unbeatable team. I loved the ending, and the epilogue was fantastic. I loved seeing the changes that being together brought to both of them.
 
I enjoyed seeing more of the Citadel Solutions gang. There isn't much at the beginning, as Ty took the bodyguard job without telling his boss (Ethan) and the others about it. Eventually, he realizes that he needs help. I laughed out loud at what happened when he finally got the courage to call. I loved seeing everyone jump in to help, and how each person's specialty played a role in the final takedown. I enjoyed meeting Ty's brother, Donovan, and look forward to getting to know him better in future books. 

 
 
 
 

How the Grinch Stole Christmas - Dr. Seuss (Random House - Oct 1957)

Get in on the Christmas cheer with Dr. Seuss’s iconic holiday classic starring the Grinch and Cindy-Lou Who—guaranteed to grow your heart three sizes!

Every Who down in Who-ville liked Christmas a lot...but the Grinch, who lived just north of Who-ville, did NOT!

Not since “’Twas the night before Christmas” has the beginning of a Christmas tale been so instantly recognizable. From the Grinch and his dog, Max, to Cindy-Lou and all the residents of Who-ville, this heartwarming story about the effects of the Christmas spirit will warm even the coldest and smallest of hearts. Like mistletoe, candy canes, and caroling, the Grinch is a mainstay of the holidays, and his story is perfect for readers young and old.

 

I love this classic Christmas tale of a bitter, lonely creature who ultimately comes to understand the True spirit of Christmas. I remember the book and the cartoon from my childhood, when watching it and A Charlie Brown Christmas kicked off the Christmas season.
 
The Seussian poetry, with its cadence and uniquely descriptive words, narrates the Grinch's transformation from bitter to exuberant. His glee at stealing all the trappings of the holiday turns to confusion when he witnesses their pared-down celebration.
 
And he puzzled three hours, till his puzzler was sore.
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before!
"Maybe Christmas," he thought, "doesn't come from a store."
"Maybe Christmas… perhaps… means a little bit more!"
 
My favorite character in the story isn't the Grinch, nor is it Cindy-Lou. I adore Max, the Grinch's dog. His devotion to the Grinch, despite the grouchiness, is sweet. The expressions on his face as the Grinch makes his plans show his dedication, but also his skepticism about the success of the endeavor. I love the ending and seeing him enjoy the feast too.
 
I love the animated version of the story and still watch it all these years later. I've never been able to get into the Jim Carey version.
 

Big Sky Slayer - Juno Rushdan (HI #2321 - Nov 2025)

Series: Ironside Protection Services (Book 1)
 
Can he protect a cop
willing to risk her life against a killer?
 
When the bullets start flying, Winter Stratton's only mission is to apprehend the rampaging shooter before more people die. When it's over, the woman who gave up a big-city badge to protect her Montana town now owes her life to investigating attorney Chance Reyes. Fighting their attraction while trying to take down a sniper tests them both to their limits. But with the trail going cold and too many suspects, Winter and Chance are up against a killer who now has them in the crosshairs.

This book started with a bang, literally, and didn't let up until the last page. In addition to the intensity of the suspense, the chemistry between the two main characters, Winter and Chance, is undeniable.
 
Winter is a recent arrival in Montana, moving there from Texas to be closer to her two sisters. Prior military, and then a big-city cop, she now works for the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation. She's just met with Chance, part of the Ironside Protection Service, when a shooter takes aim at people on the street. Winter's immediate instincts are to locate and stop the shooter, while Chance is close on her heels, trying to protect her.
 
Small-town politics and jurisdictional jealousy lead to them working together to identify and apprehend the shooter. The fast-paced action and twists in the investigation kept me glued to the pages. The more they uncover, the more complicated the mystery becomes. It isn't long before Winter and Chance discover that they are targets, too. Attacks on them ramp up the intensity as they close in on the sniper. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, though the outcome was never truly in question.
 
I enjoyed watching the development of Winter and Chance's relationship. Chance has a reputation as a serial dater, rarely spending more than a short time in a relationship. He isn't afraid of commitment; he's looking for the right person and doesn't believe in giving false hope. When he met Winter, something about her made him think she was it. The problem is convincing her that he is serious. Winter hasn't had good luck in relationships, so she is wary of Chance. She has trouble taking him seriously when he flirts with her. But the more time they spend together, the more she realizes that there is more behind the flirty façade. The sparks of attraction grow stronger, and Winter must decide if she's willing to trust Chance with her heart. I loved the ending, especially seeing how each character faced their vulnerabilities and looked to the future together.
 
I liked the secondary characters. We see a little more of Logan and Winter's sister, Summer, from the previous book. I loved the family barbecue scene with them. Winter's other sister, Autumn, plays a significant role in this book, offering a little more insight into her character. I hope to see her get a story of her own. I also liked getting to know some of Chance's IPS coworkers. I'm looking forward to seeing more of them in the following books.

 

Duty Devoted - Dominic Pierce (Calamitte Jane Pub - July 2025)

Series: Citadel Solutions (Book 2)
 
She saves lives with steady hands. He takes them with deadly precision.
 
In the war-torn jungles of Corazón, Dr. Lauren Valentino runs a field hospital under siege—treating the wounded, protecting the innocent, and risking everything to hold the line. Knowing the danger is getting critical, Lauren's family sends Citadel Solutions security expert Logan Kane to get her out.
 
One doctor should be no problem for a battle-hardened Marine who specializes in impossible missions—even when the mission doesn't want to be rescued and a hurricane is closing in.
 
They clash instantly.
The heat between them? Instant too.
 
When communication is cut off and killers close in, Lauren and Logan are forced into the jungle. The storm's not the only thing hunting them. Survival means moving fast and finding some way of trusting each other.
 
In a world where death is always only one step behind, love might be the risk that breaks them both.
 
Or saves them.
 
Terrific second book in this series. The action and tension started on the first page and kept me turning the pages to the end. From the action to the setting, the descriptions are so vivid I felt almost as if I were there. Dual first-person POV from Lauren and Logan gives insight into their actions and feelings.
 
Doctor Lauren Valentino works for a medical outreach program, currently in the jungle of Corazón. She is highly skilled, works exceptionally well under the most challenging circumstances, and cares deeply for her patients. The story opened with an example of the conditions she works under, and I couldn't help but root for a successful outcome. We also learn that political unrest and expanding cartel activities are making conditions more dangerous. Lauren's wealthy parents pester her frequently to return to Chicago, where she "belongs."
 
Former Marine Logan is the second-in-command at Citadel Solutions. He is professional, protective, and experienced. When Lauren's parents hire Citadel Solutions to extract Lauren and her team from danger, he prepares for the worst.
 
When Logan and his team arrive, disguised as a weather research team, Lauren immediately takes exception to the plan. Logan wants to leave within a week, while she insists it will take at least a month to safeguard her patients. Matters become complicated when the cartel leader's son becomes obsessed with Lauren. She thinks politely telling him "not interested" will be the end of it, while Logan sees the danger. When the cartel leader gets involved, Lauren finally realizes the peril of her situation. Their departure suddenly becomes critical.
 
I was glued to the pages as Logan and Lauren fight for their lives. Lauren's refusal to desert a patient in need leaves her and Logan on their own to escape the cartel. Not only must they evade those out to stop them, they must also fight Mother Nature, as a hurricane makes landfall. They must learn to trust each other if they are going to escape. I enjoyed watching their connection grow as they relied on each other. I loved seeing how Logan appreciated Lauren's strength and resilience, which only added to his attraction for her. Lauren's understanding of Logan's PTSD is something he doesn't expect.
 
Just when I thought everything would work out for them, Logan allows his fears to push Lauren away. I ached for Lauren because it brought back her insecurities. Each runs from the memories of what they had as they try to convince themselves that the other is better off without them. I loved seeing Logan's friends attempt to get through to him. However, it is an unexpected twist that reveals to each of them what they almost threw away. The conclusion was an intense, nail-biting event. The teamwork was outstanding, and I loved Lauren's actions. The two epilogues were fantastic, especially seeing what is in store for their future.
 
The secondary characters were terrific. I loved the chance to get to know the team members, Tyler and Jace. Their respect for each other is evident in every interaction, while light-hearted teasing does a great job of breaking the tension. My favorite was young Elena, one of the villagers. Her presence of mind and determination to help Lauren were incredible.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Duty Unbound - Dominic Pierce (Calamitte Jane Pub - June 2025)

Series: Citadel Solutions (Book 1)
 
Duty was supposed to be simple -- until she walked into his mission.
 
Ethan Cross doesn't get emotionally involved. As the head of Citadel Solutions, he handles high-stakes security with military precision and zero distractions. Protecting international pop star Nova Rivers from a dangerous stalker? Just another job.
 
Until he meets her sister.
 
Melanie Rivers is the quiet force behind Nova's chaotic empire -- efficient, invisible, and utterly selfless. She's spent her life in the shadows, sacrificing her dreams to hold her family together.
 
But Ethan notices what no one else does -- the way she shoulders everyone's burdens without complaint, the quiet fire burning beneath her calm exterior. She's not the client. She's not part of the mission. Yet the longer he's near her, the harder it gets to remember the lines he swore he'd never cross.
 
But in an industry full of secrets, danger lurks closer than anyone suspects. And one wrong move could cost them everything.
 
He was hired to keep one woman safe… but the one he can't stop thinking about might be the one who brings him to his knees.
 
When two of my favorite romantic suspense authors recommend a brand-new author, it is definitely motivation to try them. I was not disappointed, as this book reminded me of Janie Crouch's Linear Tactical books and Josie Jade's Resting Warrior Ranch series. The characters were complex, and the action scenes kept me glued to the pages.
 
Ethan is the founder and head of Citadel Solutions, the elite security firm he started after he left the military. He has a reputation for being cool under fire and impossible to distract. If he's haunted by the things he experienced, well, staying busy keeps the ghosts at bay. Being hired to protect pop star and diva Nova Rivers is just another day at the office.
 
Nova's sister, Mel, has devoted her life to making Nova's dreams come true. She's quiet, blends into the background, and puts everyone else's needs before her own.
 
Ethan's first meeting with Nova and Mel doesn't go well. Nova laughs off the idea of a dangerous stalker, resists any notion of restricting her activities, and generally behaves like a spoiled brat. Mel's business-focused attitude rubs Ethan the wrong way because she reminds him of his ex-fiancée. He turns down the job initially, but reconsiders when the stalker strikes again.
 
The mix of suspense and romance was very well done. Ethan and his team settle in to protect Nova and Mel while investigating the stalking situation. As he spends more time with them, Ethan begins to see them differently. He is drawn unwillingly to Mel, seeing past her professional façade to her warm, caring nature. Mel doesn't know what to think about Ethan. He's the first person to see her, from her growing exhaustion and burnout to the dreams of home and family portrayed in her paintings. At the same time, Mel sees past Ethan's control to the memories that haunt him. I liked seeing how happy he was when he was with her.
 
The suspense builds as they prepare for Nova's multi-city tour. Each city brings new challenges and escalating threats. Each one added more intensity to the team's determination to identify and stop whoever is behind them. Just as I thought I had it figured out, an unexpected twist threw my theory out the window. The final confrontation was a nail-biter and kept me glued to the pages to the end.
 
Once the danger is past, Ethan and Mel will have to decide if their burgeoning relationship has a future. I liked their honesty with each other and seeing how they worked things out. The epilogue was terrific and I can't wait to see them in future books.

The Lyon Loves Last - Charlie Lane (Dragonblade - Aug 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 88)
 
What's dangerous, necessary, and arranged at the Lyon's Den? A marriage of convenience between childhood friends.
 
Felix Canterbury, Viscount Foxton will never return to his childhood home. Nothing but nightmares there. He's happy to gamble the house away to win a bride at the Lyon's Den. Especially since his beloved grandfather is demanding he marry… and soon. Felix never expects the prize bride to be his childhood friend, the woman he deliberately enraged.
 
Miss Caroline Maxwell needs a house for the women's refuge she's building. Even if it means landing a husband along with it. She doesn't need love, after all. She already gave her heart away to Felix, who promptly dropped it. With the Widow of Whitehall's help, she snags a husband and a house with ease.
 
The house is perfect.
The husband—and arrogant and all too virile Felix—not so much.
 
They agree to a marriage in name only, but when circumstances trap them in the house he hates, desire tests their resolve.
 
Unless Caroline can help Felix overcome his childhood ghosts, fear will shape their futures instead of love.
 
Good second-chance romance. Caroline and Felix were friends and neighbors as teenagers until Felix cruelly stomped on her growing feelings for him. They haven't seen each other since then. Neither has married.
 
Raised by a progressive father and taught to stand up for what is right, Caroline plans to open a refuge for abused women. She needs a house to carry out her plan, and finds that being a woman alone is an obstacle. She went to Mrs. Dove-Lyon with her plan - find her a husband who has a house to spare and doesn't care if they live apart.
 
Felix likes his life in London, where he's happiest engaging in risky behavior. Haunted by a childhood tragedy, he never intends to return to the house where he grew up. He doesn't want to marry, but his grandfather insists it is time. Rather than take the traditional Marriage Mart route, Felix joins one of the bride contests at the Lyon's Den.
 
This contest was one of the Black Widow's more unusual competitions. Instead of physical prowess or gambler's luck, these contestants had to answer riddles. The contest itself was interesting as Caroline disguised herself as a man to run it herself. Her dismay at Felix's participation was evident, as was his when he realized it was her. Neither is happy with the outcome, but a Lyon's Den contract is unbreakable.
 
Neither expects nor welcomes the attraction that sparks between them. After avoiding a post-wedding kiss, they part ways as agreed. Caroline starts her shelter project while Felix continues his life in London. But Felix's grandfather isn't satisfied, and guilt-trips Felix into checking on Caroline. Felix is horrified to discover that she is alone at the house with just a maid and that the building is in far worse condition than he thought.
 
I enjoyed watching the development of Felix and Caroline's relationship. Felix wants to protect her, but the memories, nightmares, and guilty feelings have such a hold on him that it is difficult for him to function. I ached for Felix and the pain he couldn't escape. Caroline focuses on her plan and dreams of sharing it with him. There are clashes and confessions, and a growing respect for each other. Underneath it all, the sparks of attraction intensify, leading to unplanned intimacy and deepening connection. But can they overcome the obstacle of Felix's trauma and make a happy life together?
 
Unexpected danger brought Felix's fears to life, but also opened his eyes to why he pursued those risks. I liked seeing him put those fears to rest and open his heart entirely. The epilogue was great. I especially enjoyed seeing Caroline's exuberance over her new plan. 

Meet Me in the Orchard - Carolyn Brown (Sourcebooks - Aug 2025)

Series: The Paradise (Book 1)
 
Two and a half months have passed since Brodie Carter showed up in Spanish Fort, Texas to meet the father who never knew he even existed. Well, family is family, and Brodie is welcomed in (once everyone gets over their shock). Getting to know his seven half sisters and all their spouses has not been an easy job. Add to that Audrey Ross, the obnoxious, sassy, overbearing woman who owns the orchard next to his. Between Audrey haggling Brodie to buy his property and his matchmaking Great Aunt Bernie setting him up on flop dates, nothing seems to be going right.
 
And then a tornado demolishes the house Brodie and his brothers live in and everything they own. At least the orchard and farm are left untouched. Luckily, his new family offers up rooms to Brodie and his brothers while they work to rebuild. They move into the former brothel known as the Paradise, and try to get on with their lives.
 
Audrey claims the storm is an omen that Brodie should sell, but that's the last thing he's going to do. No one boils his blood like she does, and Aunt Bernie can see it. Can Brodie and Audrey stop arguing over their properties long enough to realize the spark that's growing between them?
 
Fun enemies-to-lovers, family-centric romance. In the previous series (which I haven't read yet), Brodie came to Spanish Fort to find his biological father. Once Joe Clay and his family got over the shock, they embraced Brodie and his two brothers. Brodie bought an organic orchard that was once part of a feuding family's land. He's determined to make a go of the orchard, but matters are complicated by the woman who owns the land next door, and a tornado that levels his house. His family invites Brodie, Knox, and Tripp to move into their home until they rebuild.
 
Audrey wants that land back in the family. The backstory of how it came to be split was a vital part of the story. She constantly harasses Brodie about selling to her. Audrey's great aunt Hettie lives with her and hates Brodie's family with every fiber of her being. She pushes Audrey even harder to get the land back.
 
Audrey and Brodie's encounters are antagonistic from the start. She pressures him to sell to her, telling him he'll never succeed, and mocks his organic principles. But underneath the antagonism are sparks of attraction that neither wants to acknowledge - until they can no longer resist. Their interactions are particularly enjoyable, especially in scenes like Brodie's blind date and the encounter with the stray pot-bellied pig. Their antagonism diminishes as they get to know each other, and friendship grows, with stronger feelings not far behind. I appreciated how they took their time getting to know each other, ensuring their feelings were genuine rather than reactionary.
 
Their lives and relationship become complicated by their families. Brodie's Aunt Bernie is an unrepentant matchmaker, determined to find him a wife - anyone except her nemesis's niece, Audrey. Audrey's Aunt Hettie is even more vocal about her disgust for Aunt Bernie, who used to own a bar, and whose family owns the house that used to be a high-end bordello a hundred years ago. I enjoyed watching Audrey and Brodie navigate the obstacles and find their path to happiness. There are twists involving Hettie and Bernie that caught me by surprise and added both tension and hilarity to the story. I liked the ending and look forward to seeing more of Brodie and Audrey in future books.
 
Though I haven't read the previous series, Sisters of the Paradise, I never felt lost. References to the past usually came with enough explanation to understand the connection. I thoroughly enjoyed the family relationships on Brodie's side of the family. I liked how the sisters and their husbands jumped in to help when the tornado leveled Brodie's house, including assisting with the rebuilding. Aunt Bernie was a hoot with her matchmaking attempts, and her feud with Hettie provided some wild scenes. I liked Brodie's brothers. The relationships among the three brothers were close, giving support, teasing, and the occasional kick in the pants. I loved how they were just as welcomed into the family as Brodie, even though they are not blood-related. I look forward to Tripp and Knox's stories.
 
For Audrey, the family mainly includes just her and Aunt Hettie. There is a cousin that Audrey has little contact with because of the family feud. Audrey promised her uncle she'd care for Hettie after his death, but it isn't always easy. Hettie isn't just contrary; she can be downright mean, which frequently frustrates Audrey. I liked seeing Audrey stand up to her in the end, but I didn't like Hettie's reaction or her actions. That's one character I wouldn't mind never seeing again. 

 
 
 
 
 

He Falls First - Jill Shalvis (Sourcebooks - Aug 2025)

Series: Colburn Brothers (Book 1)
 
No one is going to convince her to fall in love again...
 
Penny Rose has learned her lesson and now she's paying the price. That's why she's sharing a dilapidated house in a tiny California town with her feisty grandmother and tween brother living off the leftovers from her catering job. It's a far cry from her dream life. But who needs dreams… or love… or sex when there's amateur plumbing projects to tackle and breakfast casseroles to bake?
 
One thing's for sure, she's never falling in love again. Not even with the sexy, snarky contractor who keeps testing the walls she's built.
 
Ryder Colburn has his hands full running the family business and caring for the ailing father who's a virtual stranger from the cold, heavy-handed man he used to be. He's got zero free time for hobbies or women. Or so he thinks until one walks into his life… and the path of an oncoming car.
 
Ryder doesn't mind playing the hero for the skittish, independent woman. Maybe it's the secrets in her eyes or the scar on her chin. Whatever the reason, he's compelled to get closer.
 
This is the first book in a new Jill Shalvis series, and it completely lived up to my memories of previous series by this author. The characters were realistic with believable faults and fears, making it easy to root for their happiness.
 
Penny recently returned to her small hometown to help her grandmother and twelve-year-old brother, Wyatt. Though her dream is to own her own café, she needs an income that will pay the bills. She applies her stellar chef skills to her work for Hungry Bee Catering, providing meals for local businesses. Her return came with a promise to herself - no more relationships. The last one left her with a scar on her chin and a deeper one on her heart.
 
Ryder is the oldest of the four siblings and the one who has taken care of everyone onto his shoulders. On top of his successful building restoration business, with multiple projects and one hundred employees, he is always there for his family. He watches out for his widowed sister and is an awesome uncle to his three-year-old twin niece and nephew. He cares for his formerly abusive father, whose personality underwent a 180-degree change after a stroke. Ryder is also still grieving the loss of his best friend and business partner, and blames himself for Auggie's death. He has no time or desire for a relationship, until he's bowled over by the lovely caterer he saved from being run over in front of his business.
 
Ryder was smitten from the first, though it took him a little while to realize the depth of his feelings for Penny. Penny was attracted from the start, but determined to keep her "no men" promise to herself. However, it wasn't easy to keep him at arm's length while he helped renovate her grandmother's kitchen. Their banter was fun and had me laughing out loud frequently. Ryder recognized his feelings pretty quickly, but also knew that he had to earn Penny's trust before anything could happen. I loved his sensitivity to her fears and how he let her set the pace. He never pushed, but he never gave up on her. One of my favorite things about this couple is that they talked to each other openly and honestly. The ending was sweet and emotional. I look forward to seeing more of them in subsequent books.
 
The secondary characters were well done. Ryder's brothers were great with the way they poked at each other while also being there when needed. Their sister, Kiera, intrigues me. Her grief for her late husband is always there while she raises their twins. I could feel her struggle as she kept her business going despite her grief. Her relationships with her employees seem to be a little rocky at times because of her swinging emotions. I loved the twins. Their love for their uncles was adorable, and they brightened any scene they were in. I especially enjoyed Kiera's description of them as "feral wolf cubs".
 
Hank Colburn was the surprise. The story opened with a scene when the siblings were kids, dealing with Hank's abusive actions. But in the current day, Hank is a non-verbal stroke survivor whose personality has completely changed. He is always happy and shows no signs of his earlier abusive actions. This messes with Ryder and the others, who have trouble reconciling their memories of him with the way he is now. It will be interesting to see how these relationships progress in later books.
 
Penny's grandmother is a hoot. She's feisty and independent and cares deeply about her family. She is also a bit of a matchmaker and wants to find Penny someone to love. It was fun to see her push Penny and Ryder together. Wyatt was a typical twelve-year-old boy, seemingly oblivious to the world around him when caught up in his own activities. His relationship with Penny is a mix of pesky younger brother, protective brother, and mother/son. I loved the boost in his confidence when he started working with Ryder on the kitchen renovation. There are hints about their mother, especially when it came to Penny's childhood, but not much detail. Knowing more might have given a little more insight into some of Penny's issues.
 
I'm looking forward to the next book, which is Caleb's story.

The Lyon's Dilemma - Jude Knight (Dragonblade - July 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 87)
 
She shattered his heart—now she's his perfect match.
 
Felix Seward, Duke of Kempbury, does not want to be at a house party. Any house party. But the matchmaker Mrs. Dove Lyon has promised him that his perfect match will be there, and Felix yearns for a wife.
 
He is horrified to find that the woman who meets the matchmaker's description is Adaline Beverley. His nemesis. His Achilles heel.
 
The one woman on God's earth he will never marry. Not after what she did last time they were betrothed.
 
This was a fast-paced novella of second chances, where Mrs. Dove-Lyon brings together two people who were meant to be, despite their rocky past.
 
The main characters, Felix and Adaline, were engaged ten years ago, until her stepsister played a nasty trick on them. Felix believed Adaline betrayed him and refused to listen to her side, walking away from her, and leaving her at the mercy of Society's gossips. Felix's mistrust of women was mainly due to his stepmother's actions, and these feelings spilled over into his relationship with Adaline.
 
Ten years later, neither has quite moved on. Adaline married another man shortly after the breakup, but has been a widow for several years. She supports herself and her daughter by working as a private investigator, specializing in retrieving stolen property from Society members. But she is lonely and wants a father for her daughter, Melody. She hires Mrs. Dove-Lyon to find her a suitable husband, in exchange for finding items stolen from her. To do so, she attends a house party at the culprit's estate.
 
Felix has never married and is envious of his friends who have found happy matches. Unwilling to enter the Marriage Mart and deal with matchmaking mothers and empty-headed debutantes, he asks Mrs. Dove-Lyon to find him a wife. He wants a woman who is more interested in him as a man than in his title. She sends him off to a house party, promising him that his perfect match will be there.
 
Needless to say, both Felix and Adaline are dismayed by each other's presence. Felix still hasn't gotten over his feelings of betrayal, and Adaline still resents his refusal to listen to her. But when he takes one look at her daughter and realizes that he is her father, he knows he has to talk to her. I liked the ensuing conversation. Adaline calmly lays out the sequence of events, and Felix finally accepts the truth, sincerely apologizing to her. I loved seeing them rekindle their relationship. There were some adorable scenes with Felix and Melody, which looked promising for the future.
 
But there are still some twists in their future. Adaline needs to complete her task for Mrs. Dove-Lyon. It is a tense situation, and I enjoyed seeing how she pulled it off. However, not everything is smooth-sailing, and Adaline's past comes back to bite her in a terrifying way. I was on the edge of my seat as the scene played out, hoping that Felix would see the truth. I loved Melody's part in the ending.
 
I enjoyed catching up a little with the characters from Thrown to the Lyon who play a significant role in this story. 

 
 

Storing Secrets - Janice Kay Johnson (HI #2306 - Aug 2025)

Someone has secrets
They'll kill to keep buried
 
Erin Reed's life spirals into terror after she barely escapes an arson attack with her little boy in her arms. As the threats against her life multiply, she discovers that Detective Sam McKeige is a man she can rely on to protect her and her son. What begins as trust turns into something that might be love…if she and Sam get the chance to explore it. Can they uncover the identity of the serial killer who's been stalking her before this monster rips the future away from them?
 
Gripping tale of suspense and romance. Both main characters are realistically portrayed with believable backstories that made me eager to see a happy outcome for them.
 
Erin is a single mother of an adorable three-year-old son named Toby. Her ex-husband is not in their lives, leaving her to support them on her own. She has a thriving business reselling items she purchases at estate sales and storage unit auctions. She's stunned when her latest storage unit purchase contains many high-end items. While talking to the facility's owner about finding the unit's previous owner, an arsonist sets the office on fire. Erin and Toby barely escape with their lives.
 
Sam is the detective assigned to the case. Drawn to Erin and her son, his protective instincts hit hard, especially since Toby reminds him of the son he lost. His scenes with Toby are especially emotional. I loved how sensitive Erin and Sam are to each other's pain and the love and trust that builds between them.  
 
The suspense was terrific. The intensity of the search for the suspect and his missing items, especially after a gruesome discovery, kept me glued to the pages. As the perpetrator visited other dealers and left destruction in his wake, the pressure on Sam and Erin grew. They knew it was only a matter of time before he circled back to Erin. The build-up to the final confrontation kept me up way past my bedtime as I couldn't stop until I knew how it ended. 

 
 

Beckett - Josie Jade (Calamitte Jane Pub - Sept 2025)

Series: Warrior Security (Book 1)
 
Beckett Sinclair doesn't do complicated.
 
He trains K-9s at Pawsitive Connections, runs ops with Warrior Security, and keeps his PTSD under control. Until a dead friend's little sister shows up.
 
Audra Cartland is jumpy. Exhausted. Sleeping in the equipment shed when she thinks no one's watching. Beckett knows that look—he's seen it in combat zones, in victims, in his own mirror.
 
Someone's hunting her.
 
She won't talk. Won't explain the fear in her eyes or why she flinches at shadows. But Beckett made a promise to her brother years ago in Afghanistan, and those debts don't die.
 
Beckett should walk away. He's got enough ghosts without taking on hers.
 
Instead, he arranges a job. A safe place to sleep. His protection.
 
When the hunter becomes bold enough to strike in his town, on his watch, Beckett stops playing defense. He's lost too many people already. Failed too many times.
 
Not Audra. Not this time.
 
Some battles choose you.
 
Fantastic start to Resting Warrior Ranch's spin-off series, Warrior Security. This is another book that grabbed my attention and didn't let go until I finished it. The story is fast-paced and emotional, with intriguing characters told from the dual first-person viewpoints of Audra and Beckett.
 
Audra has been running from a stalker for more than a year. She's at the end of her rope physically and emotionally when she arrives in Garnet Bend. Her late brother told her stories of his fellow soldier's life there growing up, telling her to contact Beckett if she ever needed help. She winds up at Pawsitive Connections, where Lark puts her to work without asking too many questions.
 
Beckett works for Warrior Security and trains K-9s at Pawsitive Connections. His survivor's guilt and PTSD keep him from getting close to anyone he might lose. The dogs and cats he works with give him focus, purpose, and healing. Beck is suspicious of Audra when they first meet. He can tell that she's hiding something, and his protective instincts kick in.
 
I enjoyed watching Beck and Audra's relationship develop. It is purely a working relationship at first, as both fight the attraction that pulls them together. Things change when Beck discovers one of Audra's secrets. I loved his brusque and matter-of-fact attitude as he fixed her living situation while trying to hide his attraction. It takes Audra a while to overcome her wariness and trust Beck with the truth about her situation. Once she does, it doesn't take long for her heart to get involved. However, both Beck and Audra will have to overcome their reluctance to let anyone close to them before they can have the future each longs for. There are some gripping, emotional scenes as those walls begin to crumble.
 
The suspense of the story was terrific. Audra's fear was palpable on every page, as was her determination not to endanger the people she cared for. I loved it when she finally opened up to Beckett after the stalker found her again. The intensity of his protectiveness and his immediate involvement of the men of Warrior Security showed how seriously he took the threat. I was intrigued by each member of the team and how they used their various skills. The escalating danger kept me glued to the pages as the team closed in. The evilness of the stalker oozes off the page, intensifying the threat. A twist in the investigation led to a nail-biting conclusion.
 
I enjoyed getting to know the other members of Warrior Security better. Travis and his quirks are especially fascinating, and I look forward to his story whenever it comes. I especially liked Cooper's interactions with Beck, from his teasing to his help with Beck's PTSD episodes. Pawsitive Connections owner, Lark, also intrigues me, and I'd like to know more about her. But my favorite secondary character was Jet, the failed security dog who instantly connected with Audra. He was adorable and clearly worshipped her. I loved how everyone underestimated him.

The Wilderness Hut - Mary Wibberley (HR 1968 - Apr 1976)

Eve Carrick was a spoiled rich girl who had only to lift her little finger to be waited on hand and foot. She was also beautiful, and had always been able to get any man she wanted. Garth Seton was the pilot she had hired to fly her about and generally do her bidding on a trip to Finland - and Eve assumed that he would be as willing to fetch and carry for her as all the others had been.
 
But Garth Seton didn't jump to anyone's bidding. And there was something else about him that Eve didn't know yet......
 
A fifty-year-old romance that shows how much the genre has changed. All in all, I enjoyed the story. There is a spoiled rich girl who thinks everyone should jump to her bidding. Taking her on is the hired pilot who calls her out on her attitude. The sparks fly from the moment they meet.
 
Eve is a spoiled, rich girl who has had everything handed to her her entire life. As the story opens, she feels jaded by the life she's living and decides to visit a school friend in Finland. This friend always treated her like a normal person. She hires a pilot to take her to the remote town and expects him to accede to her every demand. Garth accepts the job but has no intention of being her lapdog. He makes it clear from the start that he has no use for spoiled rich people.
 
I didn't like Eve much at first. She was entitled, sarcastic, and snooty, though not mean. Garth rubs her the wrong way from the moment they met. She always feels as though he is laughing at her. He does come across as judgmental. He teases her frequently about her easy life, and seems amused when she talks back to him. There's a hiccup in the plan to visit her friend, which forces them to spend more time together. There are some good moments between them, but there are also more instances of Garth's judgmental attitude.
 
Matters became complicated when the plane malfunctioned on their flight back to Helsinki. A forced landing in the midst of a storm strands them in a primitive wilderness cabin. The situation calls for cooperation, not confrontation. I liked seeing the changes in Eve as she discovered new abilities. Along with the decrease in antagonism came the realization that she had very different feelings for Garth. Before she can do anything about those feelings, she makes a disturbing discovery.
 
I felt bad for Eve and understood the feelings of hurt and betrayal that led to her injury. I liked how he took care of her and that he accepted his responsibility. I liked the ending and that she made him work for her forgiveness.
 
One of the differences I noticed about this older book is the lack of the male viewpoint. In most current romances, we see events from both main characters. I missed getting a look at Garth's thoughts and motivations. 

 
 
 

A Lyon's Promise - C.H. Admirand (Dragonblade - Sept 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 89)
 
He has never forgotten how he failed her!
 
Gavin King has been with the Bow Street Runners for years, with twenty men who report directly to him—a handful of whom he trusts implicitly to handle any issues that come up regarding the Duke of Wyndmere and his family. King has investigated crimes that still keep him up nights. One of those crimes involved the gruesome sight of Lord Hughes's body stuffed into a sea chest. Though he solved Hughes's murder, and the killer was brought to trial, he will never forget the anguished look, nor the tears that followed, when he delivered the news to Lady Lucretia Montfort as he promised. God help him, he felt helpless bearing witness to her pain.
 
She has no choice but to enter the Lyon's Den!
 
Widowed for a decade, Lady Montfort hoped to find contentment when Lord Hughes proposed a marriage of convenience. His brutal murder was the catalyst for the recent salacious rumors, and the wager in White's betting book that threaten the widow's reputation.
 
King vows to keep another promise, one that he made to himself—that he would place Lady Montfort under his broad wing of protection. The rumors escalate and turn ugly. King receives an urgent missive from one of his longtime contacts, Mrs. Bessie Dove-Lyon, advising that Lucretia has asked for her help finding a husband. King demands Bessie sever the contract. She refuses. Little does he know Mrs. Dove-Lyon has a plan of her own!
 
Gavin King is one of the secondary characters in the Duke's Guard series. His stellar reputation as a Bow Street Runner and the trust he's earned from the Duke of Wyndmere made me want to know more about him. I loved getting to know him better and seeing him join the ranks of the happily married men. Gavin has been drawn to Lucretia since the day he informed her of her fiancé's death. He hasn't been able to forget her and has kept a watchful eye on her from a distance. When he learned of the nasty rumors about her, he vowed to protect her.
 
Lucretia's abusive husband died a decade earlier, leaving her a widow. Her most recent attempt at happiness ended in disaster, and the rumors swirling around her fuel her fears that she'll never find a husband. Desperation sends her to Bessie Dove-Lyon at the Lyon's Den.
 
When Gavin hears of her plans, he tries to get Mrs. Dove-Lyon to cancel the contract. When that doesn't work, he demands to become one of the men vying for her hand. The challenge scene was typical of her devious nature, and I was glued to the pages to see how it would unfold. I knew Gavin would win, but the process was daunting. The second challenge was particularly vile!
 
I enjoyed the development of Gavin and Lucretia's relationship. Lucretia spent ten years being manipulated and dismissed by those around her, but under his watch, she finds her strength. Gavin is accustomed to being in charge, so it is fun to see the new Lucretia push back when he gets a little overzealous. At the same time, the always-in-control Gavin loses some of that control whenever he's around her. Lucretia has a few fears to overcome, but her trust in Gavin makes that easier than expected. The ending was fantastic, and I laughed out loud at the pre-dinner party scene. Gavin's actions at the cemetery in the epilogue made me grin.
 
There were some suspenseful moments as Gavin searched for the truth about Lucretia's inheritance. The more he learned, the worse it was. The confrontation with the culprits was intense, and the resolution quite satisfying. Lucretia's acceptance of her treatment by some of her staff members frustrated me a bit, though her late husband's treatment contributed to her lack of confidence. With Gavin there as backup, I liked seeing her take charge. The kidnapping incident was intense, but Lucretia's actions made me cheer for her. I always love seeing Gavin in action, and this was no exception.