Romance

All posts tagged Romance

Summer of Scandal(Review Post)

Published September 24, 2018 by bookbesties

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Madeleine Atherton is no typical American heiress, sent to England to marry an English lord. A brilliant college graduate who secretly dreams of becoming a published author, she wants to marry for love. After receiving a proposal from a future duke, Madeleine flees the London Season for Cornwall to seek her sister’s advice, never expecting her decision to be complicated by a charming, handsome earl she’s certain she dislikes—even though his every touch sets her blood on fire.

Charles Grayson, the Earl of Saunders, has secrets and ambitions of his own. Although under pressure from his mother and gravely ill father to marry his cousin, Charles cannot find the words to propose. But this fascinating American visitor does not figure into his plans, either.

Thrown together unexpectedly at Trevelyan Manor, Madeleine and Charles struggle to rise above their intense attraction. But as things heat up between them over a summer that becomes increasingly scandalous, Madeleine and Charles will both be forced to make a difficult choice. Can two dreamers dare to defy convention and find their own happily ever after?

Another run read by Syrie James!!! After reading the first book in this series I was excited for this book and truly hoping that I would love it just as much. I was not disappointed! In this book we get to meet Maddie, the middle Atherton sister who is another smart, creative, and determined heroine just like her older sister. Watching her navigate the situations she finds herself in and how they play into the story is what had me hooked from the very first page. Rarely do I find books where the male and female lead characters are written in a manner that makes me see them as true soulmates, yes, they may compliment one another, but hardly do I finish a book feeling like the leading characters complete each other. This book is one of those rare instances. Books like this remind me of why I love romance novels.

As you all know from my other reviews I am a sucker for strong minded, strong willed, and independent female leads in any book I read, no matter the genera. Based on the heroines of this series, I will say Syrie James excels at creating just such women. Both Maddie and Lexi are women who even in modern times would be admired for their strength and perseverance. To me that speaks volumes about the author’s confidence in her characters and her ability to write stories that empower those characters to shine. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for the next Atherton sister.

I loved this book and I love this series!!

Danielle

For the Duke’s Eyes Only(Review Post)

Published September 18, 2018 by bookbesties

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USA Today bestselling author Lenora Bell’s second novel in her enchanting School for Dukes series spins the unforgettable tale of a beautiful archaeologist and the one man she must—but cannot—forget

If adventure has a name…it must be Lady India Rochester. The intrepid archaeologist possesses a sharp blade and an even sharper knack for uncovering history’s forgotten women. Unfortunately, she has one annoying weakness: the dangerously handsome Duke of Ravenwood. Former best friend. Current enemy. And the man who dared to break her heart.

Daniel Bonds, the Duke of Ravenwood, is a thrill-seeking antiquities hunter who only plays by one rule. Never fall in love. He’s in it for the fortune and glory. At least that’s what he wants the world to think. He’s sworn to hide his tangled web of secrets, especially from the one woman he cares about and will protect at any cost.

But when a priceless relic is stolen from the British Museum, the rivals must align forces. Racing to recover the stolen antiquity and avert an international disaster? All in a day’s work. Avoiding their buried feelings? More and more impossible. For love is about to become the greatest treasure of all.

The grand adventure begins…now!

OUT SEPT 18th!

This is the second book I have read by this author and I am very happy to report that while I was not impressed by the first book I read I adored this book in every way possible. If you are looking for adventure and historical romance this book is for you! Indy has got to be my favorite heroine for 2018. She doesn’t follow societies norms but follows her dreams and while it puts her in dangerous situations she shows her tenacity and strength and overcomes all obstacles. The fact that she manages to get the life of her dreams in spite of all her obstacles makes the entire story that much better! I can’t wait for all of you to read it and love it as much as I did.

Danielle

The Governess Game(Review Post)

Published August 28, 2018 by bookbesties

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The second unforgettable novel in USA Today bestselling author Tessa Dare’s Girl Meets Duke series

He’s been a bad, bad rake—and it takes a governess to teach him a lesson.

The accidental governess

After her livelihood slips through her fingers, Alexandra Mountbatten takes on an impossible post: transforming a pair of wild orphans into proper young ladies. However, the girls don’t need discipline. They need a loving home. Try telling that to their guardian, Chase Reynaud: duke’s heir in the streets and devil in the sheets. The ladies of London have tried—and failed—to make him settle down. Somehow, Alexandra must reach his heart… without risking her own.

The infamous rake

Like any self-respecting libertine, Chase lives by one rule: no attachments. When a stubborn little governess tries to reform him, he decides to give her an education—in pleasure. That should prove he can’t be tamed. But Alexandra is more than he bargained for: clever, perceptive, passionate. She refuses to see him as a lost cause. Soon the walls around Chase’s heart are crumbling… and he’s in danger of falling, hard.

OUT AUGT 28th!

RUN READ ALERT!!!!!

I could not put this book down!!! I love everything about this book! This is the first book I have read by this author and I am anxiously awaiting the opportunity to read more. I fell head over heels in love with Rosamund and Daisy and wished I could have been Alex just so I could give them the love they needed. Seeing how Alex adapted to each challenge she was faced with was inspiring and made me hungry for more. The way she touched and changed the lives of the girls and Chase was moving. I am so very glad that they ALL got their happy endings and that this book didn’t leave me questioning as to how things turned out for them all. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.

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Danielle

An Earl Like You: The Wagers of Sin(Review Post)

Published August 23, 2018 by bookbesties

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When you gamble at love . . .

When Hugh Deveraux discovers his newly inherited earldom is bankrupt, he sets about rebuilding the family fortune—in the gaming hells of London. But the most daring wager he takes isn’t at cards. A wealthy tradesman makes a tantalizing offer: marry the man’s spinster daughter and Hugh’s debts will be paid and his fortune made. The only catch is that she must never know about their agreement . . .

You risk losing your heart . . .

Heiress Eliza Cross has given up hope of marriage until she meets the impossibly handsome Earl of Hastings, her father’s new business partner. The earl is everything a gentleman should be, and is boldly attentive to her. It doesn’t take long for Eliza to lose her heart and marry him.

But when Eliza discovers that there is more to the man she loves—and to her marriage—her trust is shattered. And it will take all of Hugh’s power to prove that now his words of love are real . . .

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This is the second book by this author I have read, and I am still in love with the writing. I love how this book is the second book in a series but it takes place at the same time as the first book in the series, so often series books are in an order where one story ends and then the next one starts so these two stories taking place at the same time was really cool. Just as I now know to expect from this author this book has wonderful twists and turns and a leading lady with strength that inspiring. Eliza’s ability to forgive is incredible and shows the true strength of her character. I really liked this book and can’t wait to read the next.

Danielle

The Illegitimate Duke: Diamonds in the Rough(Review Post)

Published August 22, 2018 by bookbesties

United in a common cause…

Lady Juliette Matthews longs to be much more than just another pretty ornament in society. But using her recently acquired fortune to do some good is more complicated than she anticipated. Young ladies are not expected to risk their safety in helping the less fortunate. And the one gentleman who could help in her mission is stubborn, infernally handsome—and far too honorable to act on their mutual attraction.

And in a desire impossible to deny…

Florian Lowell has suddenly been made heir to the Duke of Redding—a far cry from his status as a dedicated physician. Yet even with his new role as the country’s most eligible bachelor, the beautiful, fearless Juliette is utterly beyond his reach. The scandalous circumstances of his birth would destroy both their reputations if they became known. But when a more urgent danger threatens Juliette’s life, Florian must gamble everything…including the heart only one woman can tame.

OUT August 28th!(Click on cover for link)

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This is the second book by this author I have read, and I am so very happy to see that everyone in the Matthews family gets a happy ending. This book is about the youngest sister who just like her older sister (who we meet and love in the first book) is determined to make a difference in the world beyond ballrooms and tea parties. The compassion for those who are less fortunate than themselves makes this family stand out while putting then in situations perfect for romance with the most unlikely gentlemen. I adore an intelligent HR leading lady who shows she has more to her than what she learned in finishing school and considering that Lady Juliette never went to finishing school, it adds a depth to her character that endears her to my heart. Her sheer determination in all aspects of her life lead her to success in society, her charity work, and mostly her romance with Duke of Redding. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series and see if Henry (the Duke’s rakish brother) finds the woman he finally settles down with.

Danielle

Down With Love(Review Post)

Published August 7, 2018 by bookbesties

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Out Now! Get it HERE!

Sparks fly when the hot-shot divorce lawyer meets the high-powered wedding planner. The only question is, what kind?

If you ever get married, remember my name: Max Henderson. In my line of work, you acquire a certain perspective on supposedly everlasting unions. . . .

1. Pre-nups are your friend.
2. The person you married is not the person you’re divorcing.
3. And I hope you didn’t spend much on the wedding because that was one helluva waste of hard-earned cash, wasn’t it?

But some guys are willing to take a chance. Like my brother, who thinks he’s going to ride off into the sunset with the woman of his dreams in a haze of glitter on unicorns. And the wedding planner—the green-eyed beauty who makes a living convincing suckers to shell out thousands of dollars on centerpieces—is raking it in on this matrimonial monstrosity.

The thing is, Charlie Love is not unlike me. We’re both cogs in the wedding-industrial complex. As the best man, I know her game—and I can play it better than her. But after one scorching, unexpected kiss, I’m thinking I might just want to get played.

This ebook includes an excerpt from another Loveswept title.

Opposites always attract right?
Well what about a divorce lawyer and a wedding planner?
First let me say that this is was a new to me author and while I love finding new authors, there is always a hesitations going in. With that being said, this book had me from ‘GO’ just by that alone. Meet Max, the brother of the groom who is a divorce lawyer. Charlie the wedding planner for his brother’s weeding and obviously, loves, love. When Max first hears about his brothers wedding plans he is happy for him but as a realist he knows that love is not always 100%. He has been there and done it and has the t-shirt, mug and souvenir photo. He meets Charlie and has an instant attraction when he find out she is the wedding planner. Even though they both have different views when it came to marriage she still feel’s that spark whenever she is Max around. The relationship starts to evolve and walls start to come down. Max starts to change his views while Charlie wants to stay as a one night hitter, but when that spark’s combust it made for one steamy read.
This was a flirty, fun read with a dash of spice. These two characters were well developed and funny. Great Job Kate Meader I will def be reading more of your amazing stories!

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Damaris

Born to be Wilde(Review Post)

Published August 2, 2018 by bookbesties

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The next enthralling installment in New York Times bestselling author Eloisa James’ The Wildes of Lindow Castle series

The richest bachelor in England plays matchmaker…for a heiress he wants for himself!

For beautiful, witty Lavinia Gray, there’s only one thing worse than having to ask the appalling Parth Sterling to marry her: Being turned down by him.

Now the richest bachelor in England, Parth is not about to marry a woman as reckless and fashion-obsessed as Lavinia; he’s chosen a far more suitable bride. But when he learns of Lavinia’s desperate circumstances, he offers to find her a husband. Even better, he’ll find her a prince.

As usual, there’s no problem Parth can’t fix. But the more time he spends with the beguiling Lavinia, the more he finds himself wondering…

Why does the woman who’s completely wrong feel so right in his arms?

Out NOW. Get it HERE

This is the third book in this series that I have read, and I’m beyond hooked, I AM COMPLETELY ADDICTED TO THIS SERIES. I love how this book included Parth even though he is not a Wilde by blood he is a Wilde in every way that matters, and I really hoped that he would be a feature in the series. I love the depth we get to see in Lavinia. Having access to her internal vulnerability and seeing that she was more than bonnets and lace made her more relatable and human. I love historic fashions from all eras so reading about looms, silk, and lace was a real treat for me. Add all of those things together and you have this book which is now my favorite in the series. I am now eagerly waiting for the release of the next book in the series to see how this author feeds my new addiction to this family.

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Danielle

Unmasked by the Marquess(Review Post)

Published August 2, 2018 by bookbesties

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Robert Selby is determined to see his sister make an advantageous match. But he has two problems: the Selbys have no connections or money and Robert is really a housemaid named Charity Church. She’s enjoyed every minute of her masquerade over the past six years, but she knows her pretense is nearing an end. Charity needs to see her beloved friend married well and then Robert Selby will disappear…forever.

May not be who you think…

Alistair, Marquess of Pembroke, has spent years repairing the estate ruined by his wastrel father, and nothing is more important than protecting his fortune and name. He shouldn’t be so beguiled by the charming young man who shows up on his doorstep asking for favors. And he certainly shouldn’t be thinking of all the disreputable things he’d like to do to the impertinent scamp.

But is who you need…

When Charity’s true nature is revealed, Alistair knows he can’t marry a scandalous woman in breeches, and Charity isn’t about to lace herself into a corset and play a respectable miss. Can these stubborn souls learn to sacrifice what they’ve always wanted for a love that is more than they could have imagined?

OUT NOW!! Get it HERE

This is the second book I have read by this author and I can happily say I am falling in love with her work! I love the fact that her stories are historically accurate and that she isn’t afraid to build romances and characters who stray from the cis/ hetero normal world. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community I find it very important that LGBTQ+ characters and romantic story lines show the internal struggles that the characters (as individuals and as couples) face as they grow as people and as romantic entities. This author does an incredible job of including all of it without losing any of the story line or needing to create a different society where all love is accepted.

I absolutely adore Charity and love her unwavering dedication to Louisa and to her most genuine self. I see this character and this book as having the ability to inspire people to stand fast in who they are and that as long as they hold on to their authenticity they too can find their own love and unconditional acceptance. I see this book as a beacon of hope for people who may feel like they have none. I can’t wait to add this book to my collection and I am doubly excited to read my next Cat Sebastian book.

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Danielle

A Duke by Default: Reluctant Royals(Review Post)

Published July 25, 2018 by bookbesties

Award-winning author Alyssa Cole’s Reluctant Royals series continues with a woman on a quest to be the heroine of her own story and the duke in shining armor she rescues along the way…

New York City socialite and perpetual hot mess Portia Hobbs is tired of disappointing her family, friends, and—most importantly—herself. An apprenticeship with a struggling swordmaker in Scotland is a chance to use her expertise and discover what she’s capable of. Turns out she excels at aggravating her gruff silver fox boss…when she’s not having inappropriate fantasies about his sexy Scottish burr.

Tavish McKenzie doesn’t need a rich, spoiled American telling him how to run his armory…even if she is infuriatingly good at it. Tav tries to rebuff his apprentice—and his attraction to her—but when Portia accidentally discovers that he’s the secret son of a duke, rough-around-the-edges Tav becomes her newest makeover project.

Forging metal into weapons and armor is one thing, but when desire burns out of control and the media spotlight gets too hot to bear, can a commoner turned duke and his posh apprentice find lasting love?

OUT JULY 31st!(click on cover for link)

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Ok all my fellow HR nerds, I am giving you fair warning right now. While it does involve a Duke, THIS IS NOT A HISTORICAL ROMANCE BOOK. That being said this book was a fun read! It was a nice break from my typical genre and I really enjoyed it. Getting to know Portia and her view of herself was like getting to see my own internal reflections, which made it really easy to become fully engrossed in this book. Her sassy interactions with Tavish made me wish I had her quick wit. I love how she was able to bloom and grow and find herself through Tavish and the other character’s eyes. This is the first book I have read by this author and I will be on the look-out for more.

Danielle

To Love A Duchess

Published July 24, 2018 by bookbesties

From New York Times Bestselling Author Karen Ranney comes the first book in a royally romantic and deeply emotional new series about taking risks and allowing the power to love satisfy the questions of the heart . . .

Undercover as a majordomo, spy Adam Drummond has infiltrated Marsley House with one purpose only—to plunder its mysteries and gather proof that the late Duke of Marsley was an unforgivable traitor to his country. At the same time, Adam is drawn to a more beguiling puzzle: the young and still-grieving duchess—a beauty with impenetrable secrets of her own. For Drummond, uncovering them without exposing his masquerade will require the most challenging and tender moves of his career.

That a servant can arouse such passion in her is too shocking for Suzanne Whitcomb, Duchess of Marsley, to consider. Yet nothing quickens her pulse like Drummond’s touch. It’s been two years since the duke lost his life in a tragic accident—and even longer since she’s been treated like a woman. But when Drummond’s real mission is revealed, and the truth behind Suzanne’s grief comes to light, every secret conspired to tear them apart is nothing compared to the love that can hold them together.

OUT July 31st!!!(Click on cover for link)

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This is the first book by this author and in this series that I have read, and I am intrigued to read more. I love how this book explores the grief and loss of both main characters and how they find solace in one another. I truly love how well the author allows you to see into Suzanne’s mind and emotions, giving her a depth both as a written character and as a Duchess that I don’t see much in Historical Romance characters. I found the rawness and the honesty of her emotions addicting. I did feel like I would have loved a little more of an ending once the characters admitted their love for one another. I felt like the ending was cut short. I want to know things like: How her father responded to the relationship? How did they adjust to their new life together? Do they eventually have children together? Do they actually get their happy ending? I feel like with the ending the way it is I will never know for sure. However I overall thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next book in the series.