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. 

 

Hostage Security - Lisa Childs (HRS #2316 - Mar 2025)

Series: Bachelor Bodyguards (Book 14)
 
He'll risk anything
To save the child he didn't know he had…
 
After five years behind bars for a crime he didn't commit, Josh Stafford gets a fresh start as a security specialist. When work takes him to his ex-fiancée's jewelry store, he does everything he can to keep his distance. And then the son he's never met is kidnapped… Josh understands why Natalie Croft doesn't trust him. He broke his promises to her and couldn't tell her why. He's ready to push emotions aside until their little boy is safe -- no matter how much he still loves her.
 
Terrific second chance romance with intense suspense. Five years ago, Josh and Natalie were in love and planning their future together. Then Josh went to prison after pleading guilty to a crime he didn't commit, all to protect those he loved. He went so far as to tell Natalie that he didn't love her and to forget him, not knowing that she was pregnant.
 
Now, Josh is out of prison and working as a security specialist with Payne Protection. His first assignment is to monitor the security at Croft Jewelry, Natalie's family business. The store has had many diamonds go missing, and the insurance company insists on upgrading security.
 
Natalie has spent the last five years raising her son with her parents' help and working for the family business. She is shocked to discover that Josh is part of the security team and suspicious of his presence. But not nearly as shocked as Josh when he receives a note telling him to find the diamonds or he'll never see his son and Natalie's mother again.
 
The action and suspense are intense as Josh tries to bury all his emotions while searching for his son. He and Natalie must work together to discover who is behind the thefts. The emotional rollercoaster kept me glued to the pages as Josh dealt with the news he's a father and worked to regain the trust of the woman he never stopped loving. Natalie struggles with the resurgence of her love for Josh and her fear of trusting him with her heart. I was frustrated by her lack of faith in him before she learned the truth but happy when she finally admitted the depth of her feelings. I liked seeing them come together and lay the past to rest and plan for the future they should have had.
 
The mystery of the missing diamonds kept me intrigued from start to finish. The lack of clues frustrated Josh and Natalie and kept the team scrambling for leads. Attacks and threats from the thief/kidnapper increased the intensity as they began to close in on the truth. Several edge-of-the-seat confrontations led to my suspicion of the perpetrator's identity. There was one twist I didn't see coming until almost the end. The final confrontation was an eye-opener on several levels, bringing the mystery to a terrific conclusion.
 
I enjoyed meeting Josh's half-sister, Sylvie. She had a fascinating past that made her a strong and resilient woman. She plays a crucial role in the story, and I loved her interactions with other characters. The end reveals an unexpected connection with the newest branch of Payne Protection, ensuring that she will likely turn up in a later book.

 
 
 
 

Best Friend to Husband? - Louisa Heaton (HMED #1447 - Mar 2025)

Series: Cotswold Docs (Book 1)
 
WERE THEY ALWAYS MEANT TO BE?
 
GP Lorna has spent years healing from a divorce and the end of her fertility journey by throwing herself into her work at Clearbrook Medical Practice. But when Oliver -- her onetime best friend and secret crush -- takes a job as a doctor at her surgery, life suddenly becomes more complicated! After the breakdown of his difficult marriage, Oliver isn't looking for romance, either. Yet old feelings soon begin to resurge. Can they risk their friendship in the hope of something more?
 
Good friends-to-lovers story with the bonus of older characters discovering it's never too late for love.
 
Lorna and Oliver were study partners and friends in medical school. Underneath their friendship were sparks of attraction, but neither gave in to them. Oliver had a girlfriend whom he cared for through her cancer treatments, and Lorna was determined to concentrate on her studies. Though they intended to stay in touch after graduation, their careers took them in different directions, and they drifted apart. Each went on to marry, then later divorce.
 
Many years later, Lorna works as a GP at a thriving village medical practice in the Cotswolds. Several fellow doctors have either retired or moved away, and new doctors hired to take their places. Excited that Oliver is one of those doctors, Lorna looks forward to catching up with her old friend.
 
I enjoyed seeing Oliver and Lorna's relationship develop. They picked up their friendship like they'd never been apart, spending time together cooking, running, and hanging out. While catching up on their past lives, they discover similar relationship breakdowns have made them reluctant to risk another romance and reinforce their "just friends" intentions.
 
However, the more time Lorna and Oliver spend together, the blurrier those lines between friendship and love grow. I ached for both as the desire for more fought with the fear of ruining their friendship. The emotional ending showed what is possible when you let go of the past.
 
I liked the small village setting and the look at the lives of the doctors there. There was a nice variety of medical scenes, and I enjoyed the personal touch Oliver and Lorna provided to their patients. 

The Lyon's Legacy - Sara Adrien (Dragonblade - Feb 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 73)
 
Sometimes, passion is impossible to ignore.
 
Lady Melissa Thumbridge knows how to move through high society but refuses to play by its rules. When she's summoned as the Prince Regent's mistress, she finds herself trapped in a world of luxury and duty. Yet, her heart beats for another—John Stonebridge, who's everything she's ever wanted. Loving him, though, could cost them both everything. With her sister's duchess title and the survival of the dukedom on the line, Melissa must summon all her strength to break free, with a little help from the infamous matchmaker Mrs. Dove-Lyon...and a meddlesome kitten named Angus.
 
Can Mrs. Dove-Lyon help her win her heart's desire?
 
John Stonebridge thought he'd lost everything. Once the presumed heir to a dukedom, he's been reduced to watching someone else wear the title, all while carrying the weight of his family's legacy. After the loss of his first wife, John swore that he'd never allow his heart to hope again. But Melissa changes everything. She awakens something in him—a fire he can't control and a future he yearns to grasp. The problem? Claiming her could ruin everything he's sworn to protect.
 
But what use was love if it burned all else to ash around him?
 
When fate and duty threaten to keep them apart, Melissa and John must risk everything for a second chance at an impossible love they were always meant to find. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of a castle, their steamy romance is a passionate blend of courage, scandal, and the ultimate test of devotion.
 
Good addition to the Lyon's Den series. Melissa is a beautiful young widow who caught the Prince Regent's eye. He summoned her to be one of his mistresses, an honor she did not want. Unfortunately, she can't say no without risking the livelihood and reputation of her family. Her love for another man complicates matters. She appeals to Mrs. Dove-Lyon for help in untangling her life.
 
John Stonebridge was the Duke of Duncan until his missing cousin, Dustin, returned to London (The Lyon's Golden Touch) and married Lexi, Melissa's sister. He spent years repairing the estate's finances and caring for the property. Now, he attempts to teach his cousin what he needs to know to take his place as Duke. Dustin would rather continue his work as a dentist than deal with estate matters.
 
Melissa flees to her sister's country home to visit Lexi and stay out of Prinny's way while Mrs. Dove-Lyon works her magic. I enjoyed watching John and Melissa's relationship develop. When Dustin and Lexi depart for London, John and Melissa step up to keep things going at the estate. Spending time together intensifies their feelings for each other, but until Melissa is free, they can't do anything about it. John and Melissa each have insecurities that make their situation more complicated. There are several deeply emotional scenes involving John's son, Herbert, that hammer home Melissa's fears. In the end, Mrs. Dove-Lyon comes up with an interesting solution. The epilogue was good, with a look at a unique future.
 
I enjoyed the story of John and Melissa, but I freely confess that my favorite character was Angus, the kitten. His appearance emphasized John and Dustin's challenges in handling their duties. Angus's antics were adorable and lightened some of the more intense scenes. I especially enjoyed the scene with the yarn. 

 
 

Stateroom for Two - Glenna Finley (Signet - Apr 1980)

The Business Of Romance
 
In love with a boss who didn't seem to know she was alive, pretty Pippa Gordon had had enough. When Blake Harrison returned from England, she was going to hand him her resignation.
 
Then all Pippa's plans were turned upside down by a message from Blake telling her to meet him in London as soon as possible. Suddenly Pippa found herself embarking on a whirlwind journey from New York to London to Amsterdam, where she was informed that she must temporarily pose as Blake's fiancée on a pleasure cruise that included a jet-set beauty with designs on Blake. Pippa would have liked to refuse to join the whole charade, but when Blake stole her passport, she didn't have much choice. Yet…with or without a passport…Pippa would have jumped ship immediately if she could have foreseen the dangerous course she would soon be sailing through the stormy seas of love…
 
An oldie but goodie. Glenna Finley wrote more than forty romantic suspense books in the 70s and 80s. She was a frequent traveler, and many books are set in locations worldwide. One of the things I enjoy about her books is the way she slips information about the location into the story, making it a vital part of the story.
 
In this book, Pippa works for Blake as his secretary. During the year she's been there, she has felt like part of the furniture, unnoticed and unappreciated, while she has quietly fallen for him. Giving up on making him notice her, Pippa plans to give him her resignation when he returns from his latest trip. Those plans change when she gets a message from Blake ordering her to meet him in London, then Amsterdam. After an exhausting journey, Blake shocks Pippa by introducing her as his fiancée.
 
Stan, a fellow classic car enthusiast, invited Blake on a canal cruise on his newly purchased barge. Unfortunately, one of the other passengers is a young woman determined to get her hooks into Blake. Pippa resists the job of decoy but has to cooperate after Blake swipes her passport. Further complications arise when they must share a small stateroom on the boat.
 
I enjoyed watching Blake and Pippa's relationship develop. Pippa reminds herself frequently that this is pretend, but the forced proximity to Blake makes it challenging to remember. Meanwhile, Blake enthusiastically embraces the deception, playing the doting fiancé to the hilt. There are some good scenes of them together, where Pippa feels a spark of hope for more than pretend. However, in other scenes, Blake is standoffish, or Pippa pushes him away to protect her heart. As the book went on, I suspected Blake had feelings for Pippa that he didn't know how to express. I liked the ending and the hint of vulnerability in Blake's big moment.
 
Strange things are happening aboard the boat. Stan is very protective of the storage room across from Blake and Pippa's room, rousing Pippa's curiosity. Blake confides in her that Stan has a sketchy past and has drawn the interest of law enforcement. An attack on Pippa arouses Blake's protective instincts and worry about her safety, and a narrow escape on the water puts Blake's safety in question. The anti-climactic resolution of the mystery takes place off-page, confirming my suspicions about the perpetrator and methods. 

Hawaiian Nights With the Best Man - Cara Colter (HR #4877 - Nov 2023)

Series: Blossom and Bliss Weddings (Book 2)
 
Temptation…
in paradise!
 
When a tropical storm descends after her sister's wedding, Bliss finds herself tantalizingly stranded with best man Lance. The former special forces billionaire has a physique normally reserved for marble statues, and he's a mystery that's begging to be solved. But Bliss's unpredictable childhood has left her wary of getting close to anyone. Until the consequences of their Hawaiian nights upend both their worlds…
 
Good enemies-to-lovers story set on the Big Island of Hawaii. Bliss and Lance are in Hawaii as maid of honor and best man for Bliss's sister Blossom and Lance's best friend, Joe. It is a problematic partnership because a past encounter convinced Bliss that Lance is a playboy who treats women as disposable. While Lance came across as cocky, Bliss's judgmental attitude was unexpected, mostly a reaction to her attraction to him.
 
Months later, at Blossom and Joe's wedding, Bliss still fights those sparks of attraction. She uses snark and sarcasm to attempt to keep him at a distance. Meanwhile, Lance gets a great deal of satisfaction from pushing her buttons. Bliss impulsively decides to rent a beach cottage for a few days to get away from him, unaware a tropical storm is headed her way.
 
Lance has a strong protective instinct, and when he learns of Bliss's plans, he rushes to save her - and not a minute too soon. Bliss was unprepared for the storm; the cottage was not what she expected, and the storm's intensity was scary. Lance's arrival was a relief, though she didn't want to admit it. I enjoyed watching them get to know each other and realize both were guilty of jumping to conclusions. I loved seeing them work together and watching them drop the walls they had around their hearts.
 
However, both have trust issues and as they grow closer, fears and insecurities stir. I ached for Bliss, whose past made her believe that love isn't enough to make a relationship last, sending her running. Lance won my heart with his appreciation of Bliss's unexpected strength and resilience and his realization that he has the true partnership he's looked for all his life with Bliss. His big moment at the end was sweet, and the epilogue was a great look at the future.
 
I loved the Hawaiian setting. The vivid descriptions of everything from the storm to the surfing to the lush tropical environment made me feel like I was there. 

His Best Friend's Girl - Christine Rimmer (HSE #3081 - Mar 2025)

Series: Bravo Family Ties: The Next Generation (Book 5)
 
True love might be patient…but how long is too long?
 
Ethan Bravo had been in love with Matilda Hunt since…well, since before she was Matilda Hunt, actually. Because he and Gabe Hunt had been best friends since high school. So Matty was off-limits to Ethan. Even now, after Matty has been a widow for three years, he considers her forbidden fruit. It was easy when she lived in LA, but now Matty's moved home for good. And instead of betraying his best friend's memory and revealing his heart, Ethan settled for being her confidant.
 
Except Matty is pregnant with the child from her now ex-boyfriend -- a man who wants nothing to do with Matty or the baby. So Ethan is stepping up, becoming the one man Matty can trust. Sharing his true feelings now would shatter that trust. And Ethan can't risk losing Matty -- again. He can be the one man she deserves, even if keeping his secret could break his heart.
 
Terrific friends to lovers story. Three years after the death of her husband, Matty heads home to Wyoming. Her attempt to move on after Gabe's death leaves her pregnant with the child of her ex-boyfriend, who has no interest in the baby or Matty. She moves back to Medicine Creek to raise the baby in her hometown and run her mother's bookstore.  She looks forward to seeing her best friend, Ethan.
 
Ethan was Gabe's best friend throughout school, and that friendship extended to Matty when she and Gabe became a couple. They hung out together in college, with Ethan a frequent visitor after Gabe and Matty married. He returned to Wyoming to attend law school and set up his practice in their hometown. He never let on to them that he was in love with Matty. To him, she was, and still is, off-limits.
 
The first person Matty wants to see when she gets home is Ethan. She feels overwhelmed, and Ethan is her anchor. They spent more and more time together, from cooking to watching movies. Ethan insists on helping her prepare for the baby, including volunteering as her labor coach. Ethan realizes quickly that his feelings for Matty have grown. He keeps quiet about them because Matty is emphatic that she will not marry again, and he doesn't want to ruin their friendship.
 
Matty does her best to ignore the attraction she feels for Ethan until the day the sparks burst into flame. Once they recover from the shock of the experience, Matty suggests a pre-baby fling. Take advantage of the lull before the storm, and when the baby arrives, go back to being friends only. She firmly believes that she can keep her heart safe. She was clearly fooling herself, and I ached for Ethan, who wanted so much more. I cheered for him when he stood up for his needs and hoped Matty would finally realize the truth of her feelings for Ethan. I loved the emotional ending and seeing her let go of her fears.
 
There was a secondary story about Matty's cousin Heather and her husband Billy. Heather frustrated me through most of the book - I just wanted to shake her. I liked that Matty didn't give up on her, but I could feel her frustration.

Rebel Doctor's Baby Surprise - Alison Roberts (HMED #1382 - Apr 2024)

Series: Daredevil Doctors (Book 2)
 
A NEWBORN ON HIS DOORSTEP
 
Dr. James's world is turned upside down with the arrival of a stranger, nurse Sarah. Because Sarah is not alone. She's holding a tiny bundle -- his surprise daughter! As if the situation isn't complicated enough, he feels an immediate connection to baby Ivy's beautiful guardian. And as this rebel doc opens his home -- temporarily! -- to this makeshift family, walking away with his heart intact soon becomes impossible…
 
James is one of three triplet brothers who made an anti-marriage/anti-relationship pact after one brother (Mick) was left at the altar by his fiancée. They spent several years reveling in their playboy attitudes until Mick's injury during an extreme sports event. Eddie and James move to Aberdeen to be close enough to support Mick during his recovery. In the first book, Eddie meets someone who makes him rethink that pact. Now it is James's turn.
 
James works as a temporary doctor at an Aberdeen hospital, still living a bachelor life. He returns home one evening to find an unknown woman waiting for him with the news that he is a father. Shock doesn't come close to his reaction when she tells him the infant with her is his daughter.
 
Though Sarah is baby Ivy's legal guardian, that doesn't stop James from immediately stepping into the role of father. I loved seeing him fall under Ivy's spell. He didn't expect the rapidly forming connection to Sarah. He invites Sarah and Ivy to stay with him while they discuss their options for caring for Ivy. There were some fantastic scenes of them individually and together with the baby.
 
I enjoyed watching James and Sarah's relationship develop. Both are determined to prioritize Ivy's needs, but neither expects the depth of their connection or the attraction that comes with it. James works hard to retain his "no relationships" vow but finds it increasingly difficult as Sarah and Ivy wiggle their way into his heart. Sarah pretends to herself that she can enjoy all aspects of her time with James without risking her heart. It takes a medical crisis with Ivy for them to let go of their fears and believe in a future together.
 
I liked the family dynamics in this story. There is never any question about the three brothers being there for each other, whether supporting Mick during rehab or sensing when one needs help. I loved the surprise Eddie and James had for Mick at the end. The epilogue was a lovely wrap-up for the three brothers.
 
The medical aspects of the book were essential plot points. Sarah's diabetes led to an unusual first encounter with James. A mass casualty event provided an intense scene that emphasized their professional teamwork and gave a powerful look at the impact of first responders. Lastly, Ivy's emergency was something I'd never heard of, so I learned something new.

 
 

Cold Case Squad - Marie Ferrarella (HRS #2264 - Feb 2024)

Series: Cavanaugh Justice (Book 48)
 
Working together is a challenge…
But catching a killer is their priority.
 
When Detective Cheyenne Cavanaugh's longtime partner retires, she gets stuck with newly transferred Texas cop Jefferson McDougall. But when she discovers a serial connection between several cold cases, she knows she needs Jeff's skills to help her stop the killer. They're both shaken to find that working together brings them closer to each other and the killer…
 
The book opens as Cheyenne bids farewell to her longtime partner, Wade, who is moving out of state, leaving her without a partner. That doesn't last long as the Chief of Detectives assigns new hire Jefferson McDougall to work with her. She isn't sure about him at first because his Texas drawl and easygoing attitude are not what she's used to. But when she spots similarities between several cold cases, their partnership jells as they combine their skills to track down a serial killer before he strikes again.
 
The story's suspense was excellent. The initial lack of clues frustrated Cheyenne and Jeff until a woman came in to report her mother as missing. During their investigation into her disappearance, they suspected that she may be the latest victim of the serial killer. Their work intrigued me, as did the occasional look into the killer's mind. The tension ramped up when Cheyenne became his latest target. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that kept me glued to the pages until the end. The epilogue is a lead-in to the next book and looks like it will be another page-turner.
 
I enjoyed watching Cheyenne and Jeff's relationship develop. Cheyenne doesn't like change, and she's still upset that Wade left, so she wasn't very welcoming to  Jeff when he arrived. She was snippy and cold, which I thought was very un-Cavanaugh-like. I loved that Jeff didn't let it bother him and seemed to enjoy her attitude. He certainly had no complaints at the prospect of working with her. Fortunately, Cheyenne's attitude lightened up as the day went on, and she realized that she and Jeff would work well together.
 
I loved their banter as they worked together. Their back and forth was fun to watch as they got to know each other. Underneath the humor were sparks of attraction that quickly burst into flame, with stronger feelings following close behind. The intensity of their time together accelerated the admission of their feelings, and the book ended with the promise of a future together.
 
A Cavanaugh book isn't complete without a get-together at Andrew Cavanaugh's home. Seeing a newcomer's reaction to the experience is always fun, and Jeff was no exception. 

The Highlander's Return - Lynsay Sands (Avon - Sept 2024)

Series: Highlander Brides (Book 12)
 
Graeme Gunn is a warrior through and through. A second son, he left home years ago to battle his way through Scotland as a mercenary. But with his brother William's death, Graeme is forced to return to his clan -- which now includes William's grieving widow, Annella Mackay. And Graeme is stunned to find that the beautiful, determined woman at the keep is nothing like the meek lass he remembers from William's wedding years ago…
 
Annella Mackay once had hopes for a loving marriage, a dream that shattered when her husband abandoned her. Hiding her pain, she embraced the roles of both laird and lady of the Gunn clan with spirit. But with William's death, she finally has a chance at a new dream, and she won't let anything deter her plans. Not even Graeme, no matter how strong her attraction to the strong-willed warrior, or how much she enjoys his kisses…
 
It's an explosion of passion and clash of wills from the start, especially when Graeme decides to stay and claim his title. And when the threat of a hidden enemy rears its head, Graeme and Annella realize that in fighting for their home they might also be fighting for their love.
 
This was an excellent addition to the Highland Brides series. Graeme Gunn spent the last ten years as a mercenary, fighting his way around Scotland and beyond. As the second son, he does not expect to become laird, especially after his oldest brother, William, married. But William ran off with a village woman on his wedding night and hasn't been seen since. Six years later, they find William's body, and Graeme must take him home and take over as laird.
 
Annella Mackay Gunn had the care and keeping of the Gunn lands dropped in her lap the day after her wedding. Annella is the daughter of Annabel and Ross in the series' first book, An English Bride in Scotland. She hoped for a love match like her parents had. Instead, she had to deal with being abandoned by her husband, putting up with a witch of a mother-in-law who cut her down at every opportunity, coping with an annoying young brother-in-law, and rescuing a clan struggling to survive. She has been laird, chatelaine, and healer for the last six years. It took time, but she has grown from a quiet and naïve young girl to a woman with a steel spine and fantastic management skills.
 
I loved the opening scenes of the book. Graeme has listened to Annella's brother Payton extoll her virtues of a quiet and biddable woman. It is an eye-opening (and hilarious) scene when they arrive at Gunn and find her bellowing at the clansman she is attempting to sew up. Rather than being put off by her actions, Graeme is intrigued. Meanwhile, upon learning of her husband's death, Annella makes no secret of her pleasure at the news and her desire to return to her parents' home.
 
I enjoyed watching Graeme and Annella's relationship develop. In addition to the sparks of attraction that flare between them, Graeme is smitten with Annella from his first encounter with her. He wants nothing more than to make her his wife, especially after they've given in to those sparks. Having been burned once, Annella finds it difficult to trust him.
 
I laughed out loud at Graeme's attempts to convince or compel Annella to marry him. Her determined resistance frustrated him, but eventually, he succeeded. However, while their physical relationship is explosive, they still have much to learn about each other - especially Graeme. He makes some boneheaded decisions by not using Annella's hard-earned management skills. I loved watching her come to his rescue and point out the error of his ways. It takes some time for him to learn to trust her and to earn her trust in return. Admitting their feelings is even more difficult.
 
Complications arise when it becomes evident that someone is unhappy about their marriage. As frequently happens in this series, Graeme and Annella face poisoning, flying arrows, and other attacks aimed at ending their lives. Some unexpected twists kept me guessing who was behind it, and the resolution held some surprises.

 
 

Renegade Wife - B.J. Daniels (HI #2235 - Sept 2024)

When her fairy-tale life becomes a tragedy
She's looking for vengeance
 
After her double-crossing, thieving husband disappears, Geneva Carrington Beck and her puppy -- the only thing the no-account left behind -- recruit Montana outfitter Calhoun St. Pierre to track him down. But their mountain mission takes a dangerous turn when criminals searching for the missing man make his bride a target…and a widow. Now a reluctant hero has to partner with and protect the renegade wife.
 
Geneva woke up the morning after the birthday/anniversary party her husband threw for her to find that Lucian, both cars, her jewelry, and the money from their bank accounts were gone. The only thing left was the adorable puppy he gave her as a gift. Once she was past the shock, a lucky discovery revealed a vintage truck she didn't know existed and a glove box with pictures from Lucian's hometown in Montana.
 
Determined to locate Lucian and discover what was happening, Geneva and the puppy headed for Cooke City, Montana. There, she found Lucian was not the man she thought she married. One of the first people she met was Calhoun, one of Lucian's childhood friends, who had a rocky history with him. Geneva convinces the grumpy outfitter to take her into the mountains to see if Lucian is there.
 
Geneva grew up in a wealthy family and was out of her comfort zone in Montana. She finds unexpected inner strength as she handles the trip into the wilderness. Complicating matters, some criminals also want to find Lucian and won't hesitate to use Geneva to do so. Calhoun is a gruff and grumpy loner who is reluctant to take Geneva on the search for Lucian. But underneath that grouchy exterior is a protector with an unexpectedly soft heart when it comes to Geneva and her pup.
 
The next few days are intense as Calhoun and Geneva battle storms, search for Lucian, and attempt to evade the men after him. The twists and turns kept me turning the pages as they searched for answers. There were a couple of nail-biter confrontations and one semi-redemption in an intense resolution.
 
I liked seeing Geneva and Calhoun's relationship develop. The sparks between them are evident but not entirely welcome. Geneva is still married to Lucian and dealing with the knowledge that he is not the man she loved. Calhoun has trouble seeing past Geneva's wealthy upbringing and believing that anything between them is possible. I laughed at the advice Calhoun received from an unexpected source and felt his nervousness as he followed it. I also enjoyed seeing the changes in Geneva caused by the events in Montana and her reaching for the life she wanted. I loved that she and Calhoun took the time to get to know each other better before taking the next step. The epilogue was terrific.
 
I can't end the review without mentioning Geneva's puppy. Eventually named Lucky, the pup was adorable. She was also quite resilient and handled the chaos well. She played a critical role in a couple of scenes.

 
 
 

Home Alone With the Children's Doctor - Traci Douglass (HMED #1357 - Dec 2023)

Series: Boston Christmas Miracles (Book 3)
 
Shock guest in her stocking…
 
Between her busy job on the children's ward and her recent autism diagnosis, Kalista is looking forward to being home alone for Christmas. But unexpectedly having her best friend's brother -- and old flame! -- pediatrician Dylan, move in temporarily over Hanukkah throws her plans into disarray! Because, although Kali doesn't want "forever" any more than the playboy, she still certainly wants him…
 
Kali expected to spend the holidays alone, which is fine with her. Besides her busy schedule at the hospital and clinic, she's still trying to come to grips with her recent autism diagnosis. Her roommate, Jen, is away all month on vacation. So, she was surprised to discover that Jen invited her brother to use her room while he was in Boston with one of his patients.
 
Dylan is a pediatrician with a young patient due to have surgery in the same hospital where Kali and Jen work. Logically, he would stay in Jen's apartment while there. However, there are complications.
 
Years ago, Dylan and Kali had an intense encounter that neither had forgotten. Sharing their space stirs up those old feelings, but neither wants a relationship. Dylan has been burned in the past and now avoids commitment. Kali's insecurities make it difficult for her to believe someone would like to be around her.
 
I enjoyed the development of Dylan and Kali's relationship. Once they get past the awkwardness of their past, they are free to see where their current circumstances take them. Dylan's experience as a pediatrician gives him an advantage in dealing with Kali's quirks. I liked that he put no pressure on her and moved forward at her pace. I ached for Kali and the insecurities that frequently caused her to second-guess herself. There are some terrific scenes of them enjoying assorted holiday events.
 
The more time they spend together, the stronger the sparks of attraction grow. Giving in to the heat for Dylan's stay seems like a great idea if they can keep their emotions out of the mix. Of course, that doesn't happen, but neither can bring themselves to confess the change. Not until they are willing to step outside their comfort zones can they look at a future together. I liked the ending and the epilogue.
 
I also enjoyed the medical aspects of the book. Kali's autism and its effects felt realistic, especially her attempts to adapt to it. Dylan's heart patient was adorable, and I liked learning about his issue. Kali's other patients showed the variety she dealt with. I liked the young girl's case that had Kali stumped for a bit because that one can be a challenge to identify. 

 

21 Days With the Lyon - Shana Galen (Dragonblade - Feb 2025)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 72)
 
A desperate heiress. A jaded former soldier. They've got twenty-one days to fall in love…or risk losing everything.
 
Twenty-one days. A measly three weeks. That's all the time Bianca Featherswallow is allowed to convince Theo Filliol to marry her. If she doesn't marry in three weeks, Bianca will once again be prey to fortune hunters who are eager to abduct her for her dowry. Theo was hired as her protector, and somehow she needs to convince the man to consider her for his wife. If only he wasn't so attractive. How is she supposed to woo him when she's tongue-tied and her heart thunders every time he's near?
 
Theophile Filliol, younger son of an earl, doesn't think he can protect anyone—least of all an heiress. He's literally been gambling and drinking for weeks to forget the failures of his past. Considering the debt he's racked up, he can't ignore Mrs. Dove-Lyon's orders to play bodyguard to Bianca Featherswallow. At least the Black Widow isn't trying to marry him off. The lovely Bianca would make any man a happy groom, but Theo isn't the kind of man she needs.
 
As dangers abound, from storms to fortune hunters to the pair's own sensual desires, will twenty-one days be enough time to fall in love? And even if Theo falls for Bianca, can he trust himself with her heart?
 
Bianca has had enough. A beautiful young heiress, she has endured three attempted abductions by fortune hunters desperate for her dowry. After the most recent attempt, Bianca and her father visit Mrs. Dove-Lyon for assistance in finding Bianca a husband. Mrs. Dove-Lyon knows exactly who she wants for Bianca's husband but also knows he won't respond to her usual methods.
 
Theo is the youngest son of an earl and a former soldier. Since returning from the war, he has spent his time drinking and gambling to forget past failures he blames himself for. He owes the Lyon's Den a vast amount of money, so he cannot refuse Mrs. Dove-Lyon's order to act as a bodyguard for Bianca for three weeks.
 
This is not the usual setup of a rich woman needing a husband and Mrs. Dove-Lyon manipulating an impoverished man into an immediate marriage. Theo knows nothing about the widow's endgame. He believes he is only there to protect Bianca. On the other hand, she has three weeks to convince him that he wants to marry her.
 
The development of their relationship was interesting. Theo doesn't believe he can protect her, but he will do his best. Bianca makes it difficult because once they arrive at her country estate, she believes there is no danger and continues wandering off on her own. Theo's frustration with her stubbornness is evident. He is stunned when, after her failed attempts at flirting with him, she lets slip that she is supposed to get him to marry her. He would like nothing more than to do so but has no confidence in his ability to keep her safe.
 
The more time Bianca spends with Theo, the more she likes him. Theo feels the same way about her, and it isn't long before attraction joins the mix. But when Bianca's life is in danger again, he blames himself, certain it proves that he is unworthy of her. The scenes during her recovery are heartbreaking, and I ached for Theo and his pain. The ending was terrific, with a nice twist. 

One Day in Apple Grove - C.H. Admirand (Sourcebooks Casablanca - June 2013)

Series: Apple Grove (Book 2)
 
Welcome to Apple Grove, Ohio (pop. 597), a small town with a big heart.
 
Caitlin Mulcahy loves her family. She really does. But sometimes they can drive her to her last shred of sanity -- from her dad ("I'm not meddling, I just want what's best for you") to her eight-months-pregnant older sister to her younger sister, who will do just about anything to avoid real work. Cait just needs to get away, even if for only an hour.
 
When she sees someone in need of help on the side of the road, of course she's going to pull over. She might even be able to fix his engine -- after all, the Mulcahy family is a handy bunch. She's not expecting that former Navy medic Jack Gannon and a little black puppy named Jameson will be the ones who end up rescuing her.
 
I enjoyed my trip back to Apple Grove and catching up with Caitlin, the middle Mulcahy sister. She works in the family handyman business and is especially busy because her very pregnant older sister isn't able to do much. She'd love more time to spend on her true calling - carpentry and furniture making. Sometimes, she just needs a minute or two to reset herself. She'd also like to have a marriage like her sister's, but in a town as small as Apple Grove, eligible bachelors are few and far between.
 
Jack Gannon is Apple Grove's hometown hero. He joined the Navy and became a corpsman, attached to a Marine unit in Iraq. After being injured by an IED, he left the Navy, went to medical school, and is now back in Apple Grove to take over his retired father's practice. He is scarred, physically and emotionally, but doesn't let anyone close enough to see it. Besides PTSD from the attack, he also has some survivor's guilt from his final mission, where he wasn't able to save one of the men.
 
Caitlin and Jack have known each other all their lives, but when Caitlin encounters Jack and a puppy along the side of the road, she looks at him in a new light. The two bond over caring for the puppy, whom they name Jamie, growing closer as they spend time together caring for him. Jamie provides plenty of lighthearted moments to balance the complex subjects of Jack's injuries and PTSD. I liked their ability to talk about almost anything, though it takes time and persistence on Caitlin's part to break through Jack's reluctance to talk about his past. With a little helpful intervention from their fathers, Jack finds himself on the road to healing. His big moment at the end was terrific.
 
I enjoyed the small-town setting. Apple Grove is tiny, so everyone knows everyone else. It's not unusual to have friends or family up in your business - for your own good, of course. The characters were realistic, with relatable attitudes, fears, and actions.

 
 
 

Home Sweet Christmas - Susan Mallery (HQN - Oct 2022)

Series: Wishing Tree (Book 2)
 
Until Camryn Neff can return to her "real" life in Chicago, she's in Wishing Tree to care for her twin sisters. She's not looking for forever love, not here. But handsome hotelier Jake Crane is a temptation she can't resist, so she suggests they pair up for the season. No golden rings, no broken hearts. At his side, she sees her hometown through Christmas-colored eyes. The cheer is cheerier, the joy more joyful. She thought she had put her future on hold…but maybe her real life was here all along, waiting for her to come home.
 
New in town, River Best is charmed by Wishing Tree's homespun traditions and warmhearted people. When she's crowned Snow Queen, she's honored but wary. Dylan Tucker, her king, seems like the stuff of sugarplum dreams, but she can't shake the feeling that he's hiding something big. As they perform their "royal" duties -- tasting cookies, lighting trees -- Dylan's good humor and melty kisses draw her to the brink of love. But she can't let herself fall until she uncovers his secret, even if her lack of faith means losing him forever.
 
I enjoyed this two-for-one Christmas romance. Camryn returned to her hometown to care for her terminally ill mother, take care of her younger sisters, and run the family business. After her mother's death, she stayed so the girls could finish school. Once they've graduated, she intends to return to Chicago. For now, she's doing her best to give her sisters the best holiday possible.
 
Jake is back in Wishing Tree, running the family resort. He's busy and not dating, but his recently widowed mother wants grandchildren. Helen is a force of nature and launches Project Jake's Bride. She interviews candidates and initiates background checks. Camryn is horrified to find herself on that list. I loved how she went to Jake and told him what was going on.
 
I enjoyed watching Jake and Camryn's relationship develop. They joined forces to stop Helen's plans and instead discovered an intense attraction and unexpected friendship. Rescuing a tiny chihuahua draws them closer together, with Camryn's sisters lobbying to keep the dog. They give in to the sparks, but Jake realizes he no longer wants a casual relationship even though Camryn still intends to return to Chicago. I hurt for Jake as Camryn allowed her fears to keep her heart closed. It takes advice from an unexpected source to help her see she is already where she belongs. Jake also had some baggage to deal with before he saw the depth of his feelings. I liked the ending, the scene at the ball, and the sweet scene in the kitchen.
 
The secondary story of Dylan and River was also lovely. Dylan is a local cabinet maker with a big secret. As Jake's best friend, he also gets caught up in Helen's matchmaking plans. She brings back the town's Snow King and Queen for this year's Christmas festival and rigs it so Dylan is selected as Snow King. He's not enthusiastic about it until he meets River, his Snow Queen.
 
River recently moved to town to be closer to her sister. She has a computer security business that is perfect for her. She is shy and socially awkward, but since moving to Wishing Tree, she has tried to get out more. I liked her growing friendship with Camryn and some of the other women. They encourage her to enter her name to be this year's Snow Queen - a prospect that terrifies and intrigues her.
 
I loved watching their relationship develop. Dylan is smitten from the beginning and makes his interest clear. River is wary, having been burned in the past. She has some serious trust issues. Dylan helps River through their various public appearances, and she quickly grows very comfortable with him. But even though he knows River's trust issues, Dylan makes some boneheaded mistakes that come back to bite him. He redeemed himself very well at the end. 

 

Hero's Heart - Janie Crouch (Calamitte Jane Pub - Feb 2025)

Series: Linear Tactical: Oak Creek (Book 4)
 
He was out of the game.
He should've stayed that way.
 
When a former FBI colleague asks Callum Webb to rescue the kidnapped daughter of an American bigwig in Eastern Europe, Callum's just got one word for him...
 
No.
 
Okay, actually two words: hell, no.
 
Callum is out of the international law enforcement game and has been for a long time. He's happy in his role as gruff sheriff of the tiny town of Oak Creek, Wyoming. Even if the job doesn't keep his nightmares at bay.
 
Plus, rescuing a spoiled heiress is not high on Callum's bucket list.
 
When he ends up being the only viable option, Callum knows he's not going to let a young woman die so he prepares for one last daring mission.
 
But nothing is what it seems, and this mission will change Callum's life forever in more ways than one...
 
Terrific book that, like the author's other books, hooked me from the first page. Callum is a former FBI (Omega Sector) agent who moved to Oak Creek after the death of his wife. He enjoys the calmer life of a small-town sheriff with the occasional assist to the Linear Tactical crew. A call from a former teammate interrupted that calm when he asked Callum to do an overseas ransom drop and kidnappee retrieval. Callum requests the help of two LT friends, Theo and Bear, to back him up. Plans change when Callum learns there are two women, not just the one he knew about.
 
Sloane is a modern-day Cinderella. Treated like dirt by her stepmother, half-sister, and father, Sloane's history is heartbreaking. Her sister, Marissa, is a spoiled, selfish, and manipulative piece of work. When Marissa goes to Paris, Sloane is sent as her "personal assistant, " where they are kidnapped and taken for ransom.
 
Callum's plans go sideways almost as soon as they are on the ground in Moldova. The action and suspense are intense and nonstop as Callum and Sloane become separated from Theo, Bear, and Marissa. I was glued to the pages as they went on the run, sometimes barely a step ahead of their pursuers. I loved how impressed Callum was by Sloane's ability to handle everything they faced. Callum and Sloane grow closer over the several days it takes them to make their way to safety. When they are separated after their escape, Callum wonders if he will ever see her again.
 
Callum is shocked when she appears at his cabin in Oak Creek two months later. She is in rough shape, malnourished and desperate, and hiding secrets. Callum won't blow this second chance and vows to care for her. I loved watching their relationship develop. Callum spent many years unable to let go of the past and risk his heart after the loss of his wife. I loved his protectiveness toward Sloane as he learned more about her life. That life with her family was miserable to begin with and got worse after her return. I loved her arrival in Oak Creek, Callum's care and support, and her happiness with her new life.
 
But danger strikes again, and it's up to Callum to save her. The intense final confrontation was a nail-biter with a revelation-filled twist that confirmed my suspicions about a couple of the characters. The epilogue was a great wrap-up, especially when it came to revealing consequences.
 
There were some fantastic scenes with characters from other LT books. Bear (Finn's son from EAGLE) and Theo (HERO UNBOUND) accompanied Callum on the mission to Moldova, with Lincoln providing intel support. Zac and Dr. Annie (CYCLONE) play significant roles, and Electric Smurfs also make an appearance.

A Gilded Age Christmas - Amanda McCabe, Lauri Robinson (HH #1757 - Nov 2023)

Celebrate a Gilded Age Christmas! Two stories!
 
In Amanda McCabe’s A Convenient Winter Wedding: marrying Connor O’Neill is about survival for penniless heiress May Van Der Berg. The distant self-made millionaire is far from the passionate husband she’d once dreamed of…except for that scorching kiss!
 
As one of New York's oldest families, May's parents have standing and influence but little money. Her parents have made it clear that she needs to make a good marriage to the right person, but May hopes to find a man she can love. Connor O'Neill has plenty of money but is not accepted by New York society. Marriage to someone with the right pedigree would help his mother and sister.
 
The story opens with May avoiding a ball given for her to find a husband. She sneaks off to the gazebo for a few minutes of peace. She's surprised to see an unfamiliar man there already. A few minutes of conversation while neither worries about the usual façade sparks a quick connection between them. His wealth overcomes May's mother's attitude toward "new money," and her parents allow Connor to court her. Connor worries about turning May off with his rough around the edges personality, so he works extra hard at imitating the "gentlemen" of her class. His sudden formality causes May to wonder if he is only interested in what her family can do for him and not herself.
 
I loved that May dared to speak to Connor about her worries and that he answered her honestly. Once they cleared up that confusion, the courtship was everything she could hope for. I especially enjoyed the ice skating scene. Their initial connection grows into the love they both hoped for and a heartwarming ending.
 
I loved Connor's mother and sister. His need to make the best life possible for them was sweet. Their close ties were terrific. I laughed out loud when Connor's sister advised him how to win May - she knew exactly what to tell him.
 
 
 
In Lauri Robinson’s The Railroad Baron's Mistletoe Bride: after years of estrangement, romance blooms when Kurt invites store clerk Harper and their shared niece to spend Christmas at his mansion. But are they just a family for the holidays?
 
Harper and her niece, Katie Jo, moved to another town after Harper's sister died giving birth to her. She worried that Katie Jo's father's family, wealthy railroad barons, would find them and take her away. She found a lovely little town without a railroad stop and made friends and a good life for herself and Katie Jo.
 
Seven years later, the day Harper feared arrived. Kurt Cavanaugh, Katie Jo's uncle, arrived, planning to take Katie Jo to Baltimore to meet his grandfather. Harper is not happy with the plan, as his grandfather was the one who forced Katie Jo's father to marry another woman.
 
Complicating matters, seven years ago, Harper was in love with Kurt, a customer at the restaurant where she worked. She had no idea that he had fallen for her, too. She fears falling further for him, even as he works to calm her fears, showing her he is on her side. But as her feelings for Kurt grow stronger, can she trust him not to break her heart again? I enjoyed seeing Katie Jo and Harper's effect on Kurt and the changes they brought to his life. There is a bit of trouble at the end, but it is easily resolved. The ending was great.
 
Katie Jo is a bright and cheerful child, and I enjoyed seeing her interact with the adults. It didn't take long for Kurt to fall under her spell. From the trip in the private railroad car to decorating for Christmas to sledding in the snow, Katie Jo easily fits into the Cavanaugh household.