Friday, April 19, 2019

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of DAUGHTER OF THE HOUSE, a Cornish Tales novel by Victoria Cornwall

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 DAUGHTER OF THE HOUSE, a Cornish Tales novel by Victoria Cornwall, published April 16, 2019.

Blurb for DAUGHTER OF THE HOUSE:

Evelyn Pendragon is spirited but lonely, and largely ignored by her parents whose attentions are taken up with her brother, Nicholas: the expected heir to the family’s Cornish estate and the one who will carry on the Pendragon name.

Stifled by her aristocratic existence, Evelyn finds companionship in an unlikely place when she befriends Drake Vennor, an apprentice gardener on the estate.

But When Evelyn’s life is thrown into turmoil by a tragedy, she realises just how much she has come to rely on Drake. Will family expectations and the burden of the Pendragon name mean she must turn her back on him when she needs him the most?

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Connie’s Review:

Cedar Lodge, Cornwall, England - 1870

Cedar Lodge, home of Howard Pendragon, is a fine country home yet somewhat smaller than Carrack House, owned by Howard’s older twin brother, Sir Robert Pendragon, seventh Baronet of Carrack House. There is no love between the brothers. Today, Howard is desperately hoping that his laboring wife will give birth to a boy. When the arrogant doctor arrives, he does something very evil. However, the maid sees what he did. The man wants to make a name for himself and will stop at nothing to achieve this.

Now, Robert, the Baronet, has called for the doctor’s services as he thinks his own wife is with child. She is Robert’s second wife and as there has been no child to date, he is desperate for an heir.

Cornwall - 1886

Evelyn and her brother Nicholas, two years older than she is, are the children of Sir Robert. When she can, Evelyn likes to escape from her governess to go out into the garden which is her father’s pride and joy. Today, she sees Timmons, the head gardener, interviewing a young lad, Drake Vennor, who wants to become his apprentice. After reminding Drake of the long hours, hard work and many years of training, he is hired.

Nicholas had a bout of Rheumatic Fever a years or so ago that left him weakened. Now, it appears that his heart may have been damaged by the fever and he is quite ill. When Nicholas does pass away, Howard Pendragon is ready to have his son, Mawgan, come in and learn to be the next head of the estate. But Robert declares that Evelyn will be the head of the estate and will now begin her training to take on the responsibilities.

Evelyn is next faced with dealing with the evil tutor, Mr. Burrow, and after that the equally evil, Dr. Birch. Both of these men are pompous with overinflated egos. Life for Evelyn is very difficult that tests her mettle as far as it can. Her father has no sympathy for her and her mother is a mouse.

Years later, Evelyn and Drake cross paths again and realize that their love for one another has only grown stronger. But, will society and Evelyn’s arrogant and strong-willed father keep them apart?

This is a very powerful story of enduring and unending love. The characters are crafted beautifully and their interwoven lives have been perfectly written by the author. I highly recommend this book and can assure readers that they will remember this book for a very long time to come.

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

DAUGHTER OF THE HOUSE, a Cornish Tale novel by Victoria Cornwall, ChocLit, available now in ebook and audiobook at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Wednesday, April 17, 2019

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of ONE NIGHT FOR SEDUCTION, a Wicked Dukes Club novel by Erica Ridley

I present to you a guest review of ONE NIGHT FOR SEDUCTION, a Wicked Dukes Club novel by Erica Ridley, published April 16, 2019.

Blurb for ONE NIGHT FOR SEDUCTION:

When the Wicked Duke dares the Duke of Colehaven to find a suitor for an unmanageable ward, Cole immediately accepts. He's on a winning streak, and besides, how unmarriageable can a pretty young lady be? He appoints himself bodyguard and duenna, only to discover his own desires may be the greatest danger of all.

Supposed wallflower Diana Middleton lives a double life, bringing dishonest businessmen to justice. Shaking off a meddling duke should be child's play. Yet the more they lock horns, the more she wants to lock lips. Her scandalous secrets would derail his political career. But surely there’s no harm in one little seduction…

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

Caleb Sutton, fifth Duke of Colehaven, has just entered the tavern known as the Wicked Duke. There, he sees his friend, Valentine Fairfax, sixth Duke of Eastleigh. Another friend. Thaddeus Middleton, is lamenting about the costs to clothe his cousin and ward, Diana Middleton, as she prepares for her season. As she is now 25-years-old, he may have a difficult time marrying her off. So, Colehaven accepts a bet to see that Diana becomes a married woman.

Diana Middleton has no interest in marriage but enjoys making sure that businesses deliver correct items to people and do not overcharge their customers. She goes by the name of Mrs. Peabody as she visits various establishments ensuring their compliance with her demands.

To please her cousin, Thaddeus, Diana agrees to participate in soirees
but manages to slip away and continue to investigate different merchants to ensure their compliance with proper standards of weights and measures. Even so, Diana cannot help but be attracted to Colehaven.

One night, Diana meets Felicity, 24, Colehaven’s sister. It turns out neither of them is anxious to marry because Felicity enjoys learning the mechanics of things. Colehaven had asked Felicity to introduce Diana around. So, both ladies set out to thwart his ideas. When Diana learns of Colehaven’s wager to marry her off, oh hell no!

But more time spent together as Colehaven tries to push Diana out into society more, ends up in the two of them sparking an attraction. Oh my goodness. What now?

This is a well written book with a really good plot. I liked the characters and when a basket of kittens is thrown in for good measure, I was hooked. Cats are my passion. Come along for the fun of this book. The humor thrown in will make you laugh at loud. Well done, Erica Ridley.

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

ONE NIGHT FOR SEDUCTION, a Wicked Dukes Club novel by Erica Ridley, WebMotion, available now in ebook and print at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Tuesday, April 16, 2019

Unwrapping a Happy Release Day for To Love and Be Loved By Him, a Seekers of the Past novel by Amy Valentini

Release Day Excitement!

The Journey Continues in Book Four of the Seekers of the Past Series

Continue the Journey to Where the Past Meets the Present

and Love Lives Forever

Emma’s investigation of the past leads her to Emily Embry. But will it lead her and Sam to the origins of the gold? He’s beginning to believe she’s experiencing something amazing while reading the young girl’s journal, but is it real? What might they learn as they continue seeking the past?

Sent to England to marry a man she’s never met, Emily Embry is determined to quit the contract made by her parents. When tragedy strikes her ship along the way, she encounters a handsome captain who captures her heart making her destiny even less desirable, even as she wishes he was the man she was marrying.

Beau Hawkings is a man of the sea and has no desire to settle down on land or with a wife. When he rescues the woman his grandfather contracted him to marry, he finds her desirable but his desire for freedom is greater—until she begins to claim his heart. Now his deception might be the very thing which drives her away. While both protect their hearts, they grow ever closer as fate voyages them home to where they belong—in love and loved.

Available Now in Digital and Print

at
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Monday, April 15, 2019

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of THE SOCIAL TUTOR, a Branches of Love novel by Sally Britton

I present to you a guest review of THE SOCIAL TUTOR, a Branches of Love novel by Sally Britton, published January 30, 2018.

Blurb for THE SOCIAL TUTOR:

A Sweet and Swoony Regency Romance

After years of escaping etiquette lessons in favor of the stables, Christine Devon’s grand debut in London is only weeks away, though her deportment lacks the sophisticated polish she needs to achieve her goals of a lofty marriage. Desperate to take her place in society, she needs someone to instruct her in proper behavior.

Thomas Gilbert, newly returned from Italy, is ready to begin his dream of founding a horse farm. But during his time away, the estate’s finances have dwindled to almost nothing. Unless he can find a way to save his family from ruin, he will be forced to sell his horses and give up his dreams entirely.

A chance meeting between them may solve both their problems. Christine gains a tutor in the finer arts of polite behavior, while Thomas is given access to the finest bloodlines in England. But as time passes, the arrangement is less about business, and more about love. Will they see it in time, or will Christine leave Thomas behind for the splendor of London’s ballrooms?

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Connie’s Review:

November 1811

Christine Devon, age 19, is sitting with her sisters, Julia and Rebecca, awaiting a postal delivery. Their Aunt Jacqueline, the widow of an earl, is to be sending Christine a letter about sponsoring her debut. Her older sister, Julia’s debut 4 years ago had been an "unfortunate affair." But the whole story about what actually happened remains a secret. When her aunt’s letter finally arrives, it confirms that she will soon be off to London. But Julia is quiet about wishing her well other than to say that she hopes Christine can find a titled man that would please their father and his strict standards. Their mother passed away some years ago and their father is a hard, cold man who shows no affection for the girls. He simply issues orders and expects them to be obeyed.

Thomas Gilbert, age 28, has just returned from being abroad in Italy. He has truly missed the quiet English countryside. He learned quite a lot about horse breeding during his 2 years in Italy. Now, he finds the family’s estate monies are in trouble and his father has asked for his help in finding ways to save them all.

Tonight, the family is off to a neighboring family for a dinner party with other neighbors, including the Devon family. While at dinner, Christine is quite outspoken with the vicar questioning him about something that angers the man.

The next day, Christine sees Thomas when they are both out riding. They discuss what happened with the vicar and Thomas tells her that she needs to be more subtle when speaking to people. She is unsure of herself as she had no mother to help guide her, so Christine asks Thomas to tutor her in the ways of society and in exchange, she will give him stud rights to her prize horses.

Now, Christine’s father has given her a list of men with whom she can make a marriage. Anyone other than those on that list are forbidden to her. Should she deviate from his directions, she will be sent home.

By spending so much time together, Christine and Thomas have sparked an attraction that grows. How can there be a chance for them to find happiness with her father’s dictates and the lessened finances of Thomas’s family?

I loved this sweet and clean historical romance. Christine and Thomas are strong characters and both of them share the same interests. What happened with Julia’s “unfortunate debut” is a good story and one that I believe will be revealed in another book by the author. I’m betting this will turn out to be a delighted series.

Copy gifted to me via Amazon in exchange for an honest and fair review.

THE SOCIAL TUTOR, a Branches of Love novel by Sally Britton, available now in ebook, print, and audiobook at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Thursday, April 11, 2019

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of A SILKEN THREAD by Kim Vogel Sawyer

I present to you a guest review of A SILKEN THREAD by Kim Vogel Sawyer, published April 2, 2019.

Blurb for A SILKEN THREAD:

For readers who love a heartwarming romance and a rich historical setting comes a tale of a young woman with a heavy burden, the International Cotton Exposition, and the pursuit of true love.

Eighteen-year-old Laurel Millard, youngest of seven children, is expected to stay home and "take care of Mama" by her older siblings, but Laurel has dreams of starting her own family. Operating a silk loom at the Atlanta Exposition will give her the chance to capture the heart of a man wealthy enough to take care of Laurel and any children she might bear, as well as her mother.

Langdon Rochester's parents have given him an ultimatum: settle down with a wife or lose his family inheritance. At the Exposition, Langdon meets Laurel. Marrying her would satisfy his parents's command, she would look lovely on his arm for social events, and in her besotted state, he believes she would overlook him continuing pursuing rowdy adventures with his unmarried buddies. Langdon decides to woo Laurel. Willie Sharp is not well-off and must take on an extra job at the Atlanta Exposition as a security guard. When mischief-makers cause trouble in the Women's Building, Willie is put in charge of keeping the building secure. He enjoys visiting with Laurel, who seems like the little sister he never had, but his feelings for Laurel change to something much deeper. Can Willie convince Laurel that he can give her better life--even with so little to offer?

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Connie’s Review:

Atlanta, Georgia - 1895

Laurel Millard, age 18, lives with her widowed mother, age 59. Laurel’s older siblings are all married and on their own. The siblings have decided that it is up to Laurel to live with and take care of her mother until the time comes when her mother passes away.

Langdon Rochester, age 23, lives with his parents. He is a university graduate, but his father is frustrated with him because he is idle. Now, his father insists that he begin working at the factory that the family owns. He will work as his father’s apprentice learning to run the factory and handle his father’s rental properties as well. In addition, he must look for a wife and his father demands that he be married within a year. Otherwise, his nephew will become his father’s heir. Langdon prefers his life of leisure but knows he must comply with his father’s request.

Willie Sharp lives with and cares for his widowed father who has had a stroke. They rent a small place from Mr. Rochester. Willie loves his father and does all he can for him. He is trying to save money so he can place his father in a special hospital that will help the man heal from his stroke.

Quincy Tate has been best friends with Willie all his life. They are very close and God-fearing people and don’t care that the color of their skin differs.

There is an upcoming Cotton States and International Exposition. They are hiring workers and the pay is higher than what most people make at the factory.

Laurel learns there will be a silk weaving demonstration room and as she has experience weaving on a loom, she applies for the job. Willie applies for a job hoping to make more money to help his father. His friend, Quincy, does the same. As Langdon’s father will have his own demonstration place at the Exposition, Langdon will work as a part of that.

These characters interact in ways that brings out the good and the bad in them.

I found this to be a good, well-flowing story that I know readers will enjoy. I must admit that I was a bit disappointed that, judging from the title of the book, there would be more about the making of silk products. However, I’m sure that readers will enjoy all of the story. Lots of lessons to be learned here as well.

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

A SILKEN THREAD by Kim Vogel Sawyer, Waterbrook Press, available now in ebook, print, and audiobook at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Monday, April 8, 2019

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of MISS ADELINE'S MATCH by Joanna Barker

I present to you a guest review of MISS ADELINE’S MATCH by Joanna Barker, published April 1, 2019.

Blurb for MISS ADELINE’S MATCH:

Miss Adeline Hayes is the perfect lady's companion: pleasant, conversational, and unceasingly proper. But when her closest friend, Charity Edgeworth, breaks off her arranged marriage without explanation, even Adeline's superior skills are put to the test. Charity's father banishes the two young women to the country, sending Adeline with a charge to find Charity a husband or suffer dire consequences.

As Adeline takes on the role of reluctant matchmaker, she discovers more than one obstacle in her path. Not only does Charity prefer escaping in books to socializing, but Adeline soon finds her own attentions distracted by the standoffish—and irritatingly handsome—Mr. Evan Whitfield. Amidst an eventful foxhunt and the unexpected arrival of Charity's former betrothed, Adeline simply doesn't have time for a battle of wits with Evan. But the two are continually drawn together until Adeline begins to question her tightly guarded convictions about love and marriage.

However, when secrets are revealed and truths made known, Adeline must face her most fearsome obstacle yet: herself.

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Connie’s Review:

Charity Edgeworth has recently broken her engagement to Mr. Henley, but she refuses to say why. Her father is furious with her because she has had two seasons to make a match. The gossips have had hurtful comments about it too. Mr. Edgeworth is a wealthy man and since Charity has a large dowry, he wants her to marry a titled man. Mr. Henley is heir to a Barony.

Charity’s companion is Adeline Hayes. The two young women have long been friends. Charity’s father is a country physician slowly sinking into dementia. The little money Adeline makes as Charity’s companion is being used to support her father and her older sister who takes care of him.

Now, Mr. Edgeworth has decided to send Charity to stay with her Aunt Caroline at Crawthorne Hall in Leicestershire. Her aunt and uncle will be having a house party and her father wants Charity to meet someone there to marry. He tells Adeline that if she does not see to it that Charity marries, he will remove her ailing father from his house because Mr. Edgeworth owns it.

Charity does not care for social events for she would rather be reading. The first night of the house party, Charity meets Mr. Townsend with whom she has some interesting talks. Adeline meets Mr. Evan Whitfield who owns Rothby Manor and surrounding lands close to Crawthorne Hall. Adeline is taken aback as the man tends to be disagreeable and is said to enjoy his solitude.

As the party continues, we get to know the people attending and Adeline hopes that Charity has taken a liking to Mr. Townsend. But her own attraction to Evan Whitfield is one she knows can go nowhere as she is just a companion.

When Adeline takes it upon herself to make a serious decision that she has no right making, it blows up in her face with severe consequences. Now, she must learn from her mistake and do everything she can to redeem herself for it.

I really liked this story and the characters. Adeline tends to take her role of companion to the extreme and sometimes acts like Charity’s mother instead of her friend. However, the story is very good and the ending sweet. Enjoy this nice, clean romance.

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

MISS ADELINE’S MATCH by Joanna Barker, Covenant Communications, available now in ebook, print, and audiobook at Amazon.

Wednesday, April 3, 2019

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of THE INFAMOUS DUCHESS, a Diamonds in the Rough novel by Sophie Barnes

I present to you a guest review of THE INFAMOUS DUCHESS, a Diamonds in the Rough novel by Sophie Barnes, published March 26, 2019.

Blurb for THE INFAMOUS DUCHESS:

A woman with a shocking past…

Branded a money-hungry con artist for marrying the elderly Duke of Tremaine days before his death, Viola Cartwright has found refuge in her work at St. Agatha’s Hospital. No one must know the painful reason behind her marriage. She steers clear of attachments—until Henry Lowell, heir to the Viscount Armswell, lands on her operating table after a duel. Charming and wickedly handsome, Lowell is one of London’s most inveterate scoundrels. Yet he may not be all that he appears.

And the man who can promise a future filled with love…

Posing as an unrepentant rake has helped Lowell avoid women pursuing him only for his title. But now that duty has finally called on him to marry, he finds himself entranced by the mysterious, independent-minded Viola. Then her late husband’s son returns from overseas, contesting Viola’s inheritance. Lowell longs to help her and sets out to convince Viola that a strategic union may be the best way to save all she holds dear. But can he also persuade her to take a chance on love…?

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Connie’s Review:

London - 1820

Viola Cartwright, dowager Duchess of Tremaine, is reading a letter from her stepson, Robert Cartwright, Duke of Tremaine, stating that he will be returning to London from New York. Before leaving for the West Indies, Robert had married the daughter of the Earl of Clarendon. Now, his wife is dead, he has sold the plantation, and is returning home. Robert is very angry that Viola married his father and got what was to be his inheritance. Now, he plans to sue her for her inheritance which will make her have to sell the hospital. At one time, Viola thought Robert had loved her, but soon learned he is cold and evil.

Viola had married the older Duke of Tremaine but he died shortly afterward leaving her a large inheritance. She used the money to put St. Agatha’s hospital in place for the people of London. One of the best physicians around is Florian Lowell, the Duke of Redding. He loves his work at the hospital and is a gifted surgeon.

Today, Florian is called upon to remove a bullet from the shoulder of his half-brother, Henry Lowell, as a result of a duel. Henry tends to be a bit of a rogue. Viola assists Florian with the surgery. Henry is intrigued by Viola and enjoys talking to her and having her change his dressing during his hospital stay. He is quite taken with her and wants to get to know her better. After his hospital stay, he sends her flowers and herbs to keep for herself or share with the hospital’s medicine area and patients.

Under Viola’s guidance, the hospital is working well and helping people who cannot afford to pay much. To offset that, the hospital plans to open a rejuvenation center that will rival Bath’s spas. The money coming in from that will help keep the hospital going.

When Robert initiates a suit against Viola, Henry steps in to help her. His is drawn to the strong woman that she is and he is determined to save her from the bully that Robert is. Boo-Hiss to Robert. What a villain!

This is a story of a strong and intelligent woman who has seen some difficult times in her life, yet her life goal is to help others in every way she can. The author has created the character of Viola to show her strength while keeping her more fragile side hidden. The character of Henry is delighted. While he’s a bit of a rogue, you just want to give him a big hug because you know he’s as soft-hearted as Viola is. A perfect pair and a terrific story. Enjoy.

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

THE INFAMOUS DUCHESS, a Diamonds in the Rough novel by Sophie Barnes, Avon Romance, available now in ebook, print, and audiobook at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.

Monday, April 1, 2019

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of LONDON'S BEST KEPT SECRET, a Midnight Secrets novel by Anabelle Bryant

I present to you a guest review of LONDON’S BEST KEPT SECRET, a Midnight Secrets novel by Anabelle Bryant, published March 26, 2019.

Blurb for LONDON’S BEST KEPT SECRET:

In Anabelle Bryant’s latest novel of ardor and ambition, a lord will stop at nothing to possess the woman of his dreams . . .

In monetary matters, Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Dearing, is used to being in control, but from his first sight of Lady Charlotte, his carefully cultivated world is rocked to its foundations. Determined to best her other, more eligible suitors, he goes to great lengths to ensure his betrothal to Charlotte. A locked black leather box holds the dark secret that has assured his success.

Innocent Lady Charlotte is baffled by her new husband’s behavior. Why does Lord Dearing seem so distant one day, and so attentive the next? Her family’s dire financial straits did not allow her the luxury of an extended courtship. If only she could entice him into the marriage bed! When at last Charlotte’s efforts are rewarded, she revels in Jeremy’s unexpectedly bold possessiveness. But outside of their bedchambers, her groom’s guardedness quickly returns. Passion is no longer enough for sweet Charlotte, who vows to unlock the mystery of this complicated man. The truth, however, might be more than her principled heart is prepared to handle. . . .

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Connie’s Review:

Charlotte Lockhart, Lady Dearing, is being gifted a kitten by her friend, Amelia Beckford, Duchess of Scarsdale. But, Charlotte knows that her husband, Jeremy Lockhart, Viscount Dearing, will not let her keep the adorable little ball of fluff.

Jeremy had rescued Charlotte’s family from financial ruin and Charlotte’s parents informed her then she would wed the man. Now, after 10 months, the marriage has yet to be consummated.

One thing Jeremy likes to do is find investments that may seem risky, but have made him quite wealthy. But, Jeremy has a secret about the financial transaction he made with Charlotte’s father. Should she ever learn the secret, he fears she will hate him. Therefore, his secret is locked in a leather box on his desk and he carries the key with him everywhere…until one day he loses it.

Jeremy spends a lot of time in his study working on his accounts. But he breaks away when he hears Charlotte play the piano in the afternoon. She is an accomplished pianist. They both long to break the ice between them and make their marriage a real one.

When Jeremy realizes how attractive Charlotte is to other men, he decides it’s time to woo and court his wife. Before long, they are spending more time together and getting to know one another.

Can their marriage become a loving one? Should Charlotte ever learn the secret he carries, will she hate him?

The author did a great job writing this love story that grows in steps. Both Charlotte and Jeremy are well-constructed characters and I found myself rooting for them to open their hearts to one another. Of course, when you add a kitten to the mix, it can’t help but be a fun story. Well done, Annabelle Bryant!

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

LONDON’S BEST KEPT SECRET, a Midnight Secrets novel by Anabelle Bryant, Zebra Books, available now in ebook, print, and audiobook at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks.