Unwrapping a Review of QUANTUM, a Red Rock Alien Mail Order Brides novel by Erin Kellison

Greetings my darling readers, I know I’ve been remiss in providing you reviews of good reads this past year and I apologize. Life has a hold on me which does not allow me much reading time. I have tried to make up for that in publishing my own good reads for you and I hope you’ve given them a try. In an attempt to make up for my neglect, I have been offering up guest reviews for you enjoy by my dear friend, Connie Fischer. 

However, today I am actually sharing a review of mine of a book I read last year but never got around to reviewing – QUANTUM, a Red Rock Alien Mail Order Brides novel by Erin Kellison. She is one of my favorite authors and I hope to make her one of yours with a scifi romance that I absolutely inhaled.

***copy purchased for my own personal reading but I'm sharing my honest and unscripted review.

Blurb for QUANTUM:

Space Invader steals time for love

Ex-soldier turned space pirate Tey Raider is visiting Earth to steal a fortune and use one of the Red Rock vortexes to escape into the deep black. When he bumps into Sophia West, he has no idea the human woman will throw a wrench into the hyperdrive of his master plan, and spin him, his storm cruiser, and his heart out of control.

Sophia doesn’t believe in aliens until a Sedona-based dating agency mixer puts her in direct contact with out-of-this-world clientele. She’s undercover trying to locate her brother—abducted and tortured by the big-brained bully, Nimbus. She strikes a hard bargain with Tey Raider to help her find and free her brother. Never mind that the haunted ex-soldier makes her want to reach out and make an alien connection.

The mission leads to a close encounter, and when the red dust settles, neither will be the same.

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My Review:

In most scifi adventures featuring the idea of an intergalactic dating service, the women travel to other planets or realms to seek out husbands where there is a shortage of women…not in this one. This one takes place right here at home on Earth. Surprise!

Tey Raider is a space pirate who has visited Earth in order to steal something very valuable and once he has it, he needs to use one of the Red Rock vortexes to escape again. In the process, he bumps into a woman who simply and undeniably does not believe in aliens of any sort…not even one who is all male, incredibly sexy, and set on protecting her no matter what even though she realizes quickly he’s a little off with his somewhat red skin.

Sophia West is searching for her brother. Unaware of the absolute and out of this world danger she is in, she finds herself inside a club hosting a party which is filled with aliens, and I don’t mean the type who came over the border illegally but the kind you might meet in your nightmares, and they are seeking mates. Once inside the club leaving is not particularly an option and she quickly discovers she must depend on Tey to escape unless she wants to end up totally under the control of a truly nasty bad guy. When she discovers an odd item, she hides it away which puts her into an even deeper puddle of trouble. Not willing to leave until she discovers her brother’s whereabouts, she and Tey are on the go and trying to stay one step ahead of the bad guys.

I loved this story. The power was out. We had a Nor’Easter raging around us and I had to stay awake in order to continuously check on my elderly mother to make sure she was staying warm and to keep a check on the gas logs burning on the lower level to provide us heat. It was cold! However, it turned out trying to stay awake while reading QUANTUM was no problem at all. This was a great story filled with unusual and exciting adventure, albeit sometimes a bit gruesome, and a great cast of secondary characters. Tey is sexy as can be and an Alpha male with a surprisingly big heart. Sophia is a typical earthling woman who although she is stubborn and determined isn’t very kickass but then she doesn’t really need to be with back-up like Tey…although, she held her own.

If you love outrageous characters, an adventurous romance, and something a little out of this world unusual then definitely read QUANTUM, the first book in the Red Rock Alien Mail Order Brides series by Erin Kellison. I highly recommend it. In fact, I’ve got AXION and PARADOX waiting for me on my reader. I bought them as soon as the power came back on.

Happy Reading Everyone!!

QUANTUM, a Red Rock Alien Mail Order Brides novel by Erin Kellison.
(I am sorry. It seems this book is no longer for sale at vendors but perhaps you can contact Erin through Goodreads or her Facebook page to find out how you might get a copy.)

In the meantime, if you're looking for adventurous good reading, the first four books of my Seekers of the Past series is now available for FREE reading at Kindle Unlimited as well as a fun standalone, rom-com inspired contemporary romance, When It Doesn't Stay In Vegas. Happy Reading!

   

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of DAISIES AND DEVOTION, a Mayfield Family novel by Josi S. Kilpack

Greetings my darling readers, I know I’ve been remiss in providing you reviews of good reads this past year and I apologize. Life has a hold on me which does not allow me much reading time. I have tried to make up for that in publishing my own good reads for you and I hope you’ve given them a try. So to make up for my neglect, I will be offering up guest reviews for you enjoy. I hope to be back reviewing for you soon but in the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy my dear friend, Connie Fischer’s reviews to guide you to good reads. Enjoy and Happy Reading!

I present to you a guest review of DAISIES AND DEVOTION, a Mayfield Family novel by Josi S. Kilpack, published April 16, 2019.

Blurb for DAISIES AND DEVOTION:

Timothy Mayfield is ready to marry for love, but, since his personal finances are thinner than he’d like, he knows he’ll also need to find a wife with wealth. After receiving an unexpected inheritance, Timothy’s circumstances change, and he is free to pursue his “perfect woman”—one with blonde hair, blue eyes, a light laugh, arched eyebrows, elegant fingers, and a dazzling smile, among nearly twenty other characteristics.

Maryann Morrington doesn’t match anything on Timothy’s list—except for wealth. An heiress in her own right, she is tired of men pursuing her only for her money. But at nearly twenty-two years old, and not a particularly stunning beauty, she can’t be as picky as her friend Timothy is.

The two friends end up playing matchmaker for each other. Timothy will find a decent gentleman for Maryann, and Maryann will prove to Timothy that his “perfect woman” doesn’t exist.

Until Miss Shaw comes to London.

Now, with Timothy’s heart captivated by the blonde, blue-eyed beauty, Maryann must decide if she should risk her heart and reveal her true feelings for her friend, or if she should settle for someone else. It’s an up-and-down game of “he loves me, he loves me not” with both hearts and friendship on the line.

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Connie’s Review:

London - 1822

Maryann Morrington, age 22, is in London to begin her delayed season. She has been at home for the last 5 years caring for her ailing mother who passed away some months ago. She loved her mother dearly and was happy to be the one to care for her. Maryann is an heiress with a large dowry.

Timothy Mayfield is a friend of Lucas, the husband of Deborah who is sister to Maryann. Lucas has suggested that Timothy call upon Maryann. In addition, word has spread that Maryann is a wealthy young woman which is what Timothy seeks.

When they meet, they seem to get along but Timothy tells her he is in need of a wealthy wife and lists the qualifications he is looking for which are totally counter to Maryann. She likes his honesty and tells him she will help him find a woman with the attributes that he desires.

In the meantime, Timothy is summoned by his Uncle Elliott who informs him that he will bestow a goodly sum of money and land upon him when Timothy marries a woman of whom Elliott approves. Timothy is delighted because his funds are very limited.

As Timothy and Maryann meet up at soirees, she introduces him to young ladies and a Miss Shaw turns out to be the one who ticks all of his boxes. Yet, the friendship between Timothy and Maryann becomes more than that and they both wonder at what to make of it.

This is a very good story with two delightfully, strong characters, both of whom have a great sense of humor. The descriptions of the events are sumptuous, and the plot is well-written. I have always enjoyed Josi Kilpack’s books and look forward to more from her.

Copy provided by NetGalley and Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.

DAISIES AND DEVOTION, a Mayfield Family novel by Josi S. Kilpack, Shadow Mountain, available now ebook, print, and audio at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of PROMISES AND PRIMROSES, a Mayfield Family novel by Josi S. Kilpack

Greetings my darling readers, I know I’ve been remiss in providing you reviews of good reads this past year and I apologize. Life has a hold on me which does not allow me much reading time. I have tried to make up for that in publishing my own good reads for you and I hope you’ve given them a try. So to make up for my neglect, I will be offering up guest reviews for you enjoy. I hope to be back reviewing for you soon but in the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy my dear friend, Connie Fischer’s reviews to guide you to good reads. Enjoy and Happy Reading!

I present to you a guest review of PROMISES AND PRIMROSES, a Mayfield Family novel by Josi S. Kilpack, published September 4, 2018—

***A review of book two in this series will come next time. J

Blurb for PROMISES AND PRIMROSES:

Lord Elliott Mayfield aims to correct the very messy marital mistakes and spousal scandals of his brothers and sisters by requiring his nieces and nephews to choose worthy companions.  If they choose wisely, they will receive their generous share of the family’s inheritance.

Peter, Elliott’s eldest nephew, thinks the entire idea is ridiculous. A widower with two young daughters, he simply needs a governess, not a wife. Julia Hollingsworth certainly has the credentials and the experience, but is altogether too young and pretty for such a job. So why can’t he stop thinking about her?

Julia loves working as a governess, despite the objections of her mother, Amelia. And as it turns out, Amelia has a lot to say about the Mayfield men—none of it good. But Julia dismisses the rumors of ruined reputations and instead concentrates on helping Peter with his children and his fledgling business in canine husbandry. His kindness and gentleness is endearing—and increasingly attractive.

But Amelia, whose heart was broken thirty years ago by none other than Elliott Mayfield, is determined to prevent any relationship from blooming either between Peter and Julia—or between herself and Elliott.

Hearts and history collide as both couples must face their pasts and decide if risking it all is worth the promise of new love and a new future.

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Connie’s Review:

1822

Elliott Mayfield, fifth Viscount Howardsford is meeting with his nephew and heir, Peter Mayfield. As many family members have made bad choices and bad marriages in the past, Elliott wants to see the family members turn toward better things. There are 7 nieces and nephews that he wants to see marry well and have happy lives. To that end, he wants to offer them an enticement to help them obtain a happy marriage with someone who will be a good mate for them. Peter admires his uncle for his generosity and concern, but hopes his cousins will not try to take advantage of Elliott in his endeavor. The gifts will be in the form of investments with growth potential.

Peter is a widower with 2 daughters to raise. He is a hard worker and does not feel his uncle should give him an enticement to marry again as he has no wish to do so. He lost his wife, Sybil, 4 years ago and he still mourns her. While Peter appreciates his uncle’s concern, he is only thinking of his daughters, Leah and Marjorie, and how he must hire a new governess for them.

At the employment office, Peter interviews three women. Miss Julia Hollingsworth is a young woman whose age is 27. She has recently finished a governess position in London that she held for 5 years. A lovely woman, he discovers that her father raised dogs which are Peter’s passion. Since Julia is such a lovely woman, he decides to hire a dour woman as a governess because he realizes he is much too attracted to Julia. However, the woman is totally unsuitable and Julia finally gets the job.

Julia’s mother, Amelia, is a widow and at one time had been in love with Elliott. Thinking he was about to propose to her, he was called away on urgent family business and their relationship stalled. While Amelia had a good marriage to a banker and 3 children, she is still bitter about Elliott. Therefore, she does not want Julia to have anything to do with the Mayfield family and begins a mission to get Julia away from them.

This story has some good things about it. I felt the addition of Amelia could have totally been cut out. Her bitterness is very irritating and I quickly tired of her character. However, the gentleness of Julia with the girls and the dogs is very well-written. I’m sure readers will enjoy this book. I am a fan of this author.

Copy provided by Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.

PROMISES AND PRIMROSES, a Mayfield Family novel by Josi S. Kilpack, Shadow Mountain, available now ebook, print, and audio at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of LORD BREDON AND THE BACHELOR'S BIBLE, a House of Lovell novel by Mia Marlowe

Greetings my darling readers, I know I’ve been remiss in providing you reviews of good reads this past year and I apologize. Life has a hold on me which does not allow me much reading time. I have tried to make up for that in publishing my own good reads for you and I hope you’ve given them a try. So to make up for my neglect, I will be offering up guest reviews for you enjoy. I hope to be back reviewing for you soon but in the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy my dear friend, Connie Fischer’s reviews to guide you to good reads. Enjoy and Happy Reading!

I present to you a guest review of LORD BREDON AND THE BACHELOR’S BIBLE, a House of Lovell novel by Mia Marlowe, published April 30, 2019.

Blurb for LORD BREDON AND THE BACHELOR’S BIBLE:

With the dowries of all the season’s debutantes exposed in its scandalous pages, The Bachelor’s Bible is a handy tool for an earl in need of an heiress . . .

Edward Lovell, newly minted earl, bears a weighty responsibility: to restore his family’s estate to its former grandeur. The task requires not simply a wife, but a wealthy one. Thanks to The Bachelor’s Bible, he already has a particular lady in mind. He has only to convince her sponsor that he will make a suitable husband. There’s just one complication: the sponsor is none other than the only woman he’s ever loved—and inexplicably lost. Now a young widow, Lady Anne Howard is more beautiful than ever . . .

Anne is not about to be taken for a fool a second time. When they last met, Edward was Lord Bredon, the man she adored—the man who destroyed her dreams of a happy future. Now he is pursuing the hand of the young lady Anne must keep safe from unscrupulous suitors. But who will protect Anne from the earl who still possesses her heart?

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Connie’s Review:

London - 1817

Lady Daly and other friends of Sir Erasmus Howard are attending the man’s funeral. They comment on how young the man’s wife is and to herself, the young widow is thankful that she is finally free.

At age 30, Edward Lowell, Earl of Chatham, only recently came into his title after his father’s death. Unfortunately, his father had not managed the estate's funds well, so Edward is in need of marrying a rich heiress.

Edward’s friend, Sinclair, Earl of Ware, is married to Edward’s sister, Caroline, who is expecting a baby. He has confided in them that he is finally going to look for a bride. To that end, he has a copy of “A Register of Ladies of Means", or "The Bachelor’s Bible". Miss Martha Finch, daughter of a wealthy baron, is his top pick as her dowry is 80,000 pounds. Her dowry would help his dwindling funds. He is also in need of an heir. Problem is she’s very young and a bit silly.

When Edward sees the lovely Anne, 28, Sir Erasmus Howard’s widow, he is sorry that he did not marry her himself. But he soon finds that she has been a widow for several years. When he learns that Anne is the sponsor for Miss Martha Finch, he’s quite surprised. Behind the scenes, Anne is Mrs. Hester Birdwhistle who writes anonymous articles. Edward is still drawn to Anne. But when he learns that her husband may have died of poisoning, he needs to investigate. Could Anne have killed her husband? Has Edward fallen in love with a murderer?

My goodness! This book offers treason, murder, lots of twists and turns, and many nail biting moments. The ending is very clever in how it wrapped up a big dilemma. I enjoyed the story and many of the characters that were very well-written.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

LORD BREDON AND THE BACHELOR’S BIBLE, a House of Lovell novel by Mia Marlowe, Lyrical Press, available now ebook and print at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of AMERICA'S FIRST DAUGHTER: A Novel by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie

Greetings my darling readers, I know I’ve been remiss in providing you reviews of good reads this past year and I apologize. Life has a hold on me which does not allow me much reading time. I have tried to make up for that in publishing my own good reads for you and I hope you’ve given them a try. So to make up for my neglect, I will be offering up guest reviews for you enjoy. I hope to be back reviewing for you soon but in the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy my dear friend, Connie Fischer’s reviews to guide you to good reads. Enjoy and Happy Reading!

I present to you a guest review of AMERICA’S FIRST DAUGHTER: A Novel by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie, published March 1, 2016.

Blurb for AMERICA’S FIRST DAUGHTER: A Novel:

The New York Times and USA Today Bestseller

In a compelling, richly researched novel that draws from thousands of letters and original sources, bestselling authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie tell the fascinating, untold story of Thomas Jefferson's eldest daughter, Martha "Patsy" Jefferson Randolph--a woman who kept the secrets of our most enigmatic founding father and shaped an American legacy.

From her earliest days, Patsy Jefferson knows that though her father loves his family dearly, his devotion to his country runs deeper still. As Thomas Jefferson's oldest daughter, she becomes his helpmate, protector, and constant companion in the wake of her mother's death, traveling with him when he becomes American minister to France.

It is in Paris, at the glittering court and among the first tumultuous days of revolution, that fifteen-year-old Patsy learns about her father's troubling liaison with Sally Hemings, a slave girl her own age. Meanwhile, Patsy has fallen in love--with her father's protégé William Short, a staunch abolitionist and ambitious diplomat. Torn between love, principles, and the bonds of family, Patsy questions whether she can choose a life as William's wife and still be a devoted daughter.

Her choice will follow her in the years to come, to Virginia farmland, Monticello, and even the White House. And as scandal, tragedy, and poverty threaten her family, Patsy must decide how much she will sacrifice to protect her father's reputation, in the process defining not just his political legacy, but that of the nation he founded.

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Connie’s Review:

This story revolves around Thomas Jefferson and his daughter, Patsy Jefferson. It begins with the death of Jefferson’s wife, Martha, leaving behind 3 daughters, Patsy, Polly, and baby Lucy. Jefferson is left bereft and Patsy takes over the responsibility for her father and sisters.

Jefferson is then sent to France and Patsy accompanies him. There, she acts as her father’s hostess, learns French, and how to interact well with international people. She also meets William Short who steals her heart. When it comes time to return to America, Short wants Patsy to stay in France but she feels she cannot leave her father so they are parted.

Back in America, Patsy meets and marries Thomas Randolph.

Without going into a long dissertation here, suffice to say that Patsy becomes her father’s lifelong advocate including taking the name, Martha, as her mother was named. We learn of Jefferson’s illicit long affair with Sally, a slave, and the children they had. Martha’s marriage to Randolph is rocky and she gives birth to 11 children.

There are hardships faced by many members of the family and while Martha does not like slavery, in Virginia, it is accepted.  

Much of the story here is gleaned through the letters Jefferson wrote and the numerous papers he amassed.  

This is a difficult review for me to write because there is so much I want to share. But it such a beautifully written novel that I hope will find itself on everyone’s bookshelf. I would love to see this book as required reading in every American history class.

A huge thank you to the authors for their amazing research in writing this novel. It is a must read.

Copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss.

AMERICA’S FIRST DAUGHTER: A Novel by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie, William Morrow Books, available now ebook, print, and audio at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of ONE NIGHT OF SURRENDER, a Wicked Dukes Club novel by Darcy Burke

Greetings my darling readers, I know I’ve been remiss in providing you reviews of good reads this past year and I apologize. Life has a hold on me which does not allow me much reading time. I have tried to make up for that in publishing my own good reads for you and I hope you’ve given them a try. So to make up for my neglect, I will be offering up guest reviews for you enjoy. I hope to be back reviewing for you soon but in the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy my dear friend, Connie Fischer’s reviews to guide you to good reads. Enjoy and Happy Reading!

I present to you a guest review of ONE NIGHT OF SURRENDER, a Wicked Dukes Club novel by Darcy Burke, published April 30, 2019.

Blurb for ONE NIGHT OF SURRENDER:

After one passionate night a decade ago, Valentine Fairfax, Duke of Eastleigh, never forgot Isabelle, the intelligent, witty and forbidden daughter of a head of college at Oxford. However, since suffering a disastrous marriage to an unfaithful wife, the duke has vowed never to succumb to temptation again. Until the day he discovers his friend’s governess is the one woman who still haunts his dreams.

Once penniless, Isabelle Cortland has finally saved enough money to finance a school for impoverished girls. But when a chance encounter rekindles buried desires, Isabelle knows she can’t be a duke’s mistress and a headmistress at the same time. No longer a naïve girl, Isabelle won’t repeat the past. Not even for one night of surrender...

Meet the unforgettable men of London's most notorious tavern, The Wicked Duke. Seductively handsome, with charm and wit to spare, one night with these rakes and rogues will never be enough…

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Connie’s Review:

London - 1817

Mrs. Isabelle Cortland is employed by Lord Barkley and his wife as governess for their daughters Beatrice, 13, and Caroline, 10. Lord Barkley, his daughters, and Isabelle are temporarily staying at the home of Valentine Fairfax, the Duke of Eastleigh, while renovations are being completed on the Barkley home.

Isabelle is hoping that she will not encounter Valentine during their stay. Ten years ago, the two of them spent a night of passion and Isabelle has never forgotten that night. Isabelle is the daughter of an Oxford head and extremely well educated by her father. Her dream is to one day open a school for girls.

However, when Valentine and Isabelle do meet, they both know they are still attracted to one another. Isabelle had been married, but when her husband passed several years ago having gambled away the family funds, she had no choice but to take a position as a governess. Valentine had also been unhappily married and his wife has passed away.

When Isabelle meets Valentine’s sister, Viola, and their crotchety grandmother, she is impressed with Viola’s friendliness and independence. She also says she wants to introduce Isabelle to her friends. She can’t help but be somewhat intimated by their grandmother.

One day, Isabelle learns she is to be replaced by another governess because Lady Barkley is jealous of her and wants her out. Eager to find a new position as soon as possible, she applies as a barmaid called the Wicked Duke owned by Valentine and his friend, the Duke of Colehaven, and is accepted. However, this does not go down well with Valentine and he steps in to make some changes.

Is there a way that these two people can be together? They are so much in love.

I liked this book very much and found it to be yet another delighted historical romance by a talented author.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

ONE NIGHT OF SURRENDER, a Wicked Dukes Club novel by Darcy Burke, available now ebook and print at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of THE EARL'S COUNTESS OF CONVENIENCE, a Penniless Brides of Convenience novel by Marguerite Kaye

Greetings my darling readers, I know I’ve been remiss in providing you reviews of good reads this past year and I apologize. Life has a hold on me which does not allow me much reading time. I have tried to make up for that in publishing my own good reads for you and I hope you’ve given them a try. So to make up for my neglect, I will be offering up guest reviews for you enjoy. I hope to be back reviewing for you soon but in the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy my dear friend, Connie Fischer’s reviews to guide you to good reads. Enjoy and Happy Reading!

I present to you a guest review of THE EARL’S COUNTESS OF CONVENIENCE, a Penniless Brides of Convenience novel by Marguerite Kaye, published April 1, 2019.

Blurb for THE EARL’S COUNTESS OF CONVENIENCE:

A countess in name only…

…tempted by a night with her husband!

Part of Penniless Brides of Convenience: Eloise Brannagh has witnessed firsthand the damage unruly passion can cause. Yet she craves freedom, so a convenient marriage to the Earl of Fearnoch seems the perfect solution! Except Alexander Sinclair is more handsome, more intriguing, more everything than Eloise anticipated. She’s set her own rules for their marriage, but her irresistible husband might just tempt her to break them!

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Connie’s Review:

Kate, Lady Elmswood, is delighted to receive a note from Lord Fearnoch accepting her invitation to call and meet her ward, Miss Eloise Brannagh, to discuss marriage. If he and Eloise are amenable to one another, then they must be married by 30 June or Lord Fearnoch will forfeit his title and estates which would then pass to his odious cousin.

Both Eloise and Alexander grew up with cold parents. Eloise and her sisters ended up nearly penniless when her parents died, which is why they now live with their uncle’s wife, Kate.

Kate, Eloise, and her sisters Phoebe and Estelle, assume the man to be old and ugly, but when he arrives, they are quite wrong, for Alexander Sinclair, the Earl of Fearnoch turns out to be quite handsome indeed. As they discuss the terms of the marriage, Eloise learns it will be a marriage of convenience. They both agree and Eloise travels to London where she and Alexander are married. They then move into his spacious London townhome.

As Eloise learns her way around and gets to know Alexander more, she is quite delighted. The plan is that Alexander will spend most of his time working overseas in a rather vague government position.

Ah, but the best laid plans of mice and men…you know the rest. Knowing they are not to become attracted to one another is difficult for them to maintain because they are falling in love. But Alexander is determined to do his duty and Eloise tries to support him.

Can they be apart with the feelings they have gained? Is there a chance that this marriage of convenience can remain that way? This book is beautifully woven together with some extra intricate knots. The characters of Eloise and Alexander are complex, and vulnerable. The conversation is clear and jovial. I loved this story! Don’t miss it!

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

THE EARL’S COUNTESS OF CONVENIENCE, a Penniless Brides of Convenience novel by Marguerite Kaye, Harlequin Historical, available now ebook and print at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of ANYTHING BUT A DUKE, a Duke's Den novel by Christy Carlyle

Greetings my darling readers, I know I’ve been remiss in providing you reviews of good reads this past year and I apologize. Life has a hold on me which does not allow me much reading time. I have tried to make up for that in publishing my own good reads for you and I hope you’ve given them a try. So to make up for my neglect, I will be offering up guest reviews for you enjoy. I hope to be back reviewing for you soon (in fact, I've got a copy of this one too, and hope to bring you my review as well) but in the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy my dear friend, Connie Fischer’s reviews to guide you to good reads. Enjoy and Happy Reading!

I present to you a guest review of ANYTHING BUT A DUKE, a Duke’s Den novel by Christy Carlyle, published April 30, 2019.

Blurb for ANYTHING BUT A DUKE:

Self-made man Aidan Iverson has seen more closed doors in his thirty years than he’s ever cared to count. As a member of the elite Duke’s Den, he has all the money he could possibly need, but the one thing he can’t purchase is true power. If roguish Aidan can’t buy his way into society’s hallowed halls, he’ll resort to a more extreme measure: marriage.

Brought up to be a proper lady, the only thing Diana Ashby desires is to be left alone to the creation of her own devices. But when her dreams are crushed, she must find another way to secure the future of her invention. Knowing his desire to enter her world, Diana strikes a deal to arrange Aidan’s marriage to the perfect lady—as long as that lady isn’t her. She doesn’t need any distractions from her work, particularly of the sinfully handsome variety.

As Diana and Aidan set out to find him an aristocratic match, neither are prepared for the passion that ignites between them or the love they can’t ignore.

In the Duke’s Den, can happiness ever be a winning prospect?

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Connie’s Review:

London - 1845

Diana Ashby is off to attend a scientific lecture presented by a past tutor she had. Her interest lies in being an inventor and she spends most of the day in her workshop. Her father had been the second son of a baronet which had afforded her a good education. However, the man had not managed the family funds well and now they are in need of money.

Diana’s twin brother, Dominick, tends to spend most of his time gambling and drinking himself into a stupor. While her mother has tried to be understanding of her desire to be an inventor, she now tells her that it is time that she marries a wealthy man.

Aiden Iverson is looking for what might have happened to his mother, or even who she was, before abandoning he and his sister at a workhouse. Today, Aiden is a very wealthy man because he worked hard and invested wisely. He is also the third owner of Lyon’s Gentleman’s Club. Yet even with all of his money, his lack of nobility ends up with doors shut in his face. Thus, his friends tell him he needs to wed a noble bride.

Lyon’s holds events that allow inventors to display their inventions and if Lyon’s is interested, they may offer investment money. When Diana shows a household vacuum system to them, she is furious when the unit is dropped and broken, thus not allowing her to demonstrate it. But she is very persistent and asks Aiden to visit her workshop so she can demonstrate it there. He is unsure if he wants to invest in it because he usually goes with much larger projects, such as bridges. So, when she learns from him that he needs to marry a titled lady, she promises to introduce him to her friends. If it results in marriage, he will then fund her invention.

Both Diana and Aiden are strong, intelligent, and hard-working, In addition, they are attracted to one another yet Diana feels that her situation does not fulfill what Aiden seeks. Is that true or are they both holding back?

I really enjoyed this story and found the plot to be a bit unusual, but very well crafted. I am sure that readers will like this book.

Copy provided by Edelweiss and Goodreads in exchange for a fair and honest review.

ANYTHING BUT A DUKE, a Duke’s Den novel by Christy Carlyle, Avon Romance, available now in ebook, print, and audiobook at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.