Showing posts with label Five Star

A Court of Thorns and Roses

in , , by Duchess Bethany, June 26, 2022

A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES BY SARAH J. MAAS
A Court of Thorns and Roses #1

When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin—one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world.

As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow grows over the faerie lands, and Feyre must find a way to stop it . . . or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever.


The Plot
This was a mix between a Beauty and Beast and a Cinderella retelling and I LOVED it! Feyre is the backbone of her family. Her once wealthy family was thrust into poverty after her father’s investments failed dramatically and his creditors left him with a limo and constant pain. Feyre was forced to take care of her family by hunting, chopping wood and sacrificing her few comforts to her father and two sisters. But when she accidentally kills a Fae in the shape of a wolf, she is taken as a trade to the world of the Fae. Over many months, Feyre gets to know Tamlin, Lucien, and the other residents of the Spring Court. Slowly, Tamlin and Feyre fall in love…But, when it gets to dangerous for Feyre, Tamlin sends her home to keep her safe. Weeks later, sensing something is wrong, she returns to find the castle destroyed and Tamlin taken hostage.  Now she must fight for her life to free Tamlin and all the other courts in the Fae world. 

Tropes
Fantasy Romance, Beauty and the Beast, Fae Hero, Protective Hero, Titled Hero, Artist Heroine, Experienced Heroine, Independent Heroine, Knife-Wielding Heroine, Age-Gap Romance, Angst Romance, Suspense/Danger/Murder, Artist-Heroine



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Star Cursed

in , , by Duchess Bethany, June 01, 2022

Star Cursed
Zodiac Wolves #2
by Elizabeth Briggs

My fated mate rejected me, and now he wants me back. I'd rather die.


I'm being held captive by my worst enemies, the Leo pack. My fated mate is their new alpha, and he says he has big plans for me. For us. But no matter how much the mate bond tries to convince me he's the one, there's another man I can't stop thinking about: the alpha of the lost pack. My new pack. Kaden thinks I went willingly with my mate and turned my back on him. I don't know if he's coming for me, but I'm not giving up 'til I find my way back to him—and to my new family.


I'm an Ophiuchus. I'm Moon Touched. And my enemies have underestimated me for far too long.


Review
Wow, these books never cease to surprise me! More twists and turns and suspense! I find it hard to review books that end with a cliff hanger because I don't want to give away the story.  A lot of things become clearer and Kaden and Ayla get even closer. As we start this second book, Kaden things Ayla left him because she couldn't resist the pull of her mate, but really she was forced to leave or they would kill most of their pack. Most of the story is spent with her under the Leo's pack with her fated mate, Jordan, looming around. It is dramatic to say the least and it with Ayla finding out who her mother is and Kaden presumed dead! Ah!

Tropes
Paranormal Romance, Alpha Hero, Abused Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Enemies to Lovers, Shapeshifters, Werewolves, Instant Attraction, Abduction, Suspense/Danger/Murder



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Moon Touched

in , , by Duchess Bethany, June 01, 2022

Moon Touched
Zodiac Wolves #1
by Elizabeth Briggs

My fated mate rejected me—and now I've been captured by someone even worse.


As the half-human outcast of the Cancer pack, I've been beaten and bullied my whole life. Gaining my wolf form and my fated mate is my only chance to change packs and hope for a better life.

Except when my fated mate is revealed, he's the future alpha of the Leo pack—our worst enemies. He rejects me in front of everyone, just before the Leos slaughter my entire pack and murder my family.

I manage to escape, but then I'm kidnapped by a far greater threat: the alpha of the mysterious lost pack. The 13th sign was banished from the Zodiac Wolves years ago, and I thought they were just a myth.

They're real. They're holding me captive. And the dark, dangerous alpha is offering me something I can't refuse—revenge.

Review
Ayla spent her whole life being the outcast. She was the child of her father's affair and he resented her, so she spent her first twenty-two years being shamed and beaten by her father, step-mother and others in the pack.  I am not sure how she turned out remotely as well as she did considering the abusive childhood she had. She was so optimistic about getting her wolf and hopefully a mate from a different pack! Rejection shouldn't surprise her anymore, but of course her fated mate, an alpha-heir in another pack, rejected her. Her beloved brother was killed in the brawl that followed and she barely managed to escape with her life; the mysterious Alpha of the lost pack saved her and brought her to their lands.  While she is proving her trust and skills to the new pack, she starts to find what she was missing, acceptance. The new pack, and especially their alpha, begin to accept her and she even joins their pack! But just as she is feeling at home and figuring out the relationship with Kaden, her mate that rejected her appears and steals her back. 

I loved this book and devoured it so quickly! I hated the abuse that Ayla endured growing up, but to see her transformation, skill, and confidence grow was amazing! I really, really, really wish we could have Kaden's perspective!  I was dying to know what he was thinking throughout the book; I payed special attention to any scene involving him so I could learn as much as I could about him and his personality. 

Tropes
Paranormal Romance, Alpha Hero, Abused Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Enemies to Lovers, Shapeshifters, Werewolves, Instant Attraction, Abduction/Kidnapped, Suspense/Danger/Murder



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The Chief

in , , by Duchess Bethany, May 09, 2022

The Chief (Highland Guard #1) 
by Monica McCarty

An elite fighting force unlike the world has ever seen...


Scouring the darkest corners of the Highlands and Western Isles, Robert the Bruce handpicks ten warriors to help him in his quest to free Scotland from English rule. They are the best of the best, chosen for their superior skills in each discipline of warfare. And to lead his secret Highland Guard, Bruce chooses the greatest warrior of all.


The ultimate Highland warlord and a swordsman without equal, Tor MacLeod has no intention of being drawn into Scotland’s war against the English. Dedicated to his clan, the fiercely independent chief answers to no one—especially not to his alluring new bride, bartered to him in a bid to secure his command of the deadliest fighting force the world has ever seen. The treacherous chit who made her way to Tor’s bed may have won his hand, but she will never claim his heart.


Although her husband’s reputation is as fierce as his manner, Christina Fraser believes that something softer hides beneath his brutal shell. But the only warmth she feels is in their bed, in glorious moments of white-hot desire that disappear with the dawn. When Christina’s reckless bid to win her husband’s love goes awry and thrusts them into danger on the eve of war, Tor will face his ultimate battle: to save his wife and to open his heart—before it’s too late.


The Plot
I adored this book! It was full of adventure and angsty romance. There were several scenes that caused Tor and Christina to be separated for some length but the story still held my interest. It was like to stories woven together perfectly; the training Tor was doing and the relationship between Tor and Christina. They meshed perfectly and I felt like I had enough of both with each shift. I can not wait to read the next in the series!

The Heroine
Christina had a rough childhood with an abusive father and a sickly sister. She is forced to obey her father and trick Tor into marriage. Christina is a hopeless romantic and is convinced she can make the best of the marriage. She is the sweetest woman and does everything to help Tor and his clan, but Tor is reluctant to let her in his world. 

The Hero
Tor is a hardened Scottish Warrior. He saw his mother and father brutally killed and has closed himself off from any emotion so he can be the best warrior for his clan that depends on him.  Being forced into a marriage is not at all what he wanted, even if there was something felt between him and Christina, he didn't have time for the distraction. But when his hand is forced and he marries her and agrees to train a special elite group of warriors, he has a hard time keeping his hold on his suppressed emotions and his neutrality between England and Scotland.  

The Steam
I could so feel the passion between Tor and Christina! They had such chemistry in the bedroom which made me feel even worse for her outside the marriage bed. But the steam was there and it was so very hot!

Tropes
Historical Romance, Medieval Era, Scotland, Highland Warrior Hero, Alpha Hero, Damaged/Tortured Hero, Soldier/War Hero, Virgin Heroine, Unexpected Virgin, Married in Scandal, Marriage of Convenience/Arranged Marriage, Suspense/Danger/Murder, Sunshine/Grump, Three Flame, Five Star

HistoricalRomance, MedievalEra, Scotland, HighlandWarriorHero, AlphaHero, Damaged/TorturedHero, soldier/WarHero, VirginHeroine, UnexpectedVirgin, MarriedinScandal, MarriageofConvenience/ArrangedMarriage, Suspense/Danger/Murder, Sunshine/Grump, ThreeFlame, FiveStar


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100 Nights with the Duke

in , , by Duchess Bethany, May 04, 2022

100 Nights with the Duke
by Jess Michaels
★★★★★
🖤🖤🖤🖤🤍

Once upon a time, a handsome duke was madly in love with a beautiful courtesan. But when his grandmother manipulated him into marrying for position, rather than love, they were torn apart. Now Edward, the Duke of Lockhart, is widowed, out of mourning and ready to pursue the love of his life again.

But Sophia Russell was brokenhearted when she lost him before and she sees no way that it can work out this time any more than it did before. Still, Edward’s seduction is something she cannot…will not resist. So she creates elaborate rules of their affair and hopes she can keep her heart separate this time.

Passion has always been easy for these two, but love will be hard. Especially when a terrible danger becomes clear and their fight for each other becomes one they may die from if they lose.

The Plot
This book wrecked me, wooed me, made me cry, made me so anxious, scared me and then tied it all together with a happy ever after. Sophia and Edward had a short liaison that was cut short because he had the duty to marry for the Dukedom. But the love lost when they separated broke both of them. When Edward's wife dies, he returns for Sophia determined to win her back in to his life...forever! He spends the whole book trying to convince her he means marriage, kids and everything and that they can stand up to the scrutiny of the Ton and his horrible Grandmother, the Dowager. Seriously, finished this in less than 24 hours. I couldn't put it down. One section had me so sad and feel a horrible pit in my stomach (you KNOW what I'm talking about), then I was swooning as they made love, then I was frustrated with Sophia for not letting herself go and just love Edward, then I was scared of the Dowager, and then the cycle started all over again. 

I know this makes no sense and I am rambling but seriously, I was on the edge of the page the whole time! 

The Heroine
Sophia Russell is a courtesan that had a rough childhood, although I don't recall much detail about it. She is beautiful and the sweetest woman to everyone. Its no wonder Edward (and many other men) adored her! But when Edward had to walk away to fulfill the duties of the Dukedom, she was crushed. It took her a long time to get past the pain, but she did eventually and took other protectors, but none compared to Edward. So when she reconnected with Edward, she had to protect her heart from something that she thought could never be.  She was truly trying to protect him as well, but slowly Edward was able to break down the wall around her heart. 

The Hero
Edward, the Duke of Lockhart is now my new favorite book boyfriend. Hands down.  He had very little choice but to walk away from Sophia and get married, but it was a difficult marriage as he and his new wife were in love with other people. When she died, he felt horrible that her short life was so miserable. But he was able to return to Sophia and convince her to love him. He was so sweet to give her space when she needed it and obey her 'rules' she put in their liaison. So patient! Ugh, he was the best and I was rooting for him the whole book, just hoping Sophia would see reason! 

The Steam
I mean its Jess Michaels, OF COURSE there is steam and in the best way!

Tropes
Regency Era, Steam Hot, Steam Carriage, Beta Hero, Titled Hero, Mistress Heroine, Courtesan, Experienced Heroine, Angst Romance, Second Chance Romance, Courtesan Romance, Class Difference, Betrayal, Five Star, Four Flames



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Ice Planet Barbarians

in , , by Duchess Bethany, April 12, 2022

Ice Planet Barbarians
Ice Planet Barbarians #1
Ruby Dixon

You'd think being abducted by aliens would be the worst thing that could happen to me. And you'd be wrong. Because now, the aliens are having ship trouble, and they've left their cargo of human women - including me - on an ice planet.

And the only native inhabitant I've met? He's big, horned, blue, and really, really has a thing for me...

The Plot
Georgie wakes up after being abducted by aliens along with a bunch of other childless women the same age. One of the girls has a implant that allows her to understand their language and they find out they are to be sold. Some sort of emergency on board, causes the aliens to drop their cargo bay on a planet and return for it later. They decide they must escape and not wait around for them to return! Georgie is kind of the leader of the girls so she decides to go venture out to find help. She runs into Vektal who claims they are mates and destined to be together. They become friends….even closer…and when she gets the ability to understand his language they go back rescue the other girls. Georgie ends up falling in love with Vektal and gets a Khui so she can survive on the planet. 

So I am normally not a sci-if girl, but I couldn’t resist after I saw so many rave reviews of this series, so I gave it a shot. It took some getting used to (especially after engrossed in historical romance), but I really loved this book! Georgie’s sarcasm took some getting used to as well, but she grew on me. 

The Heroine
Georgie is tough and brave. Good heavens! She kept her head when she realized she was abducted, but also when she went out in search of food and help. She is feisty when she needs to be but level headed and a leader to all the other girls. 

The Hero
Vektal. Oh sweet Vektal. He was the best part of this whole book. He was basically obsessed with Georgie and in the sweetest way! He has been alone for so long and he was desperate to keep Georgie once he resonated with her. He teased her and she teased right back and it was adorable. He was patient waiting for Georgie to come around to the idea of being ‘mates’ but also with her wanting to stay with him instead of returning home. 

The Steam
Oh my. Yes. Lots and lots and lots of steam!

Tropes
Paranormal Romance, Alien Hero



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Masked Innocence

in , , by Duchess Bethany, April 09, 2022

Masked Innocence
Innocence Lost #1
by Sawyer Quinn

A black satin mask was the only thing protecting Lady Katherine Mandeville from discovery and scandal. Temptation lured her to the hedonistic masquerade, and curiosity forced her indulgence in a wicked proposition. A night of paradise with the Marquess of Claireborne enflamed her desire for the forbidden, leaving her ruined in every possible way.

A perfect evening of unparalleled bliss...if only she hadn't been caught.

This is a Regency erotica short that ends in a cliffhanger. It's part of the Innocence Lost series, a group of erotica prequels to Regency romance novels/novellas, each short featuring the defloration of a heroine. These are not required reading to enjoy the Regencies they precede, however they do enhance the story.

“You are, without a doubt, the most delectable creature I will ever have the pleasure of plunging headfirst into.”  

This is a short novella serving as a prequel to an upcoming book. And oh my goodness, I can not wait to read more about Katherine and Sebastian. There chemistry was electric and so passionate! Masked Innocence was very well written as it pulled me into not only the plot but also the passion developing between the main characters in a short one scene novella!

“You are, without a doubt, the most delectable creature I will ever have the pleasure of plunging headfirst into.”  

Tropes

Steam Hot, Historical Romance, Rake Hero, Titled Hero, Aggressive Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Hidden Identity

“I’ll thoroughly enjoy bringing you to heel.” A half smile tilted her lips as she unlocked the door.  “Finding an heiress in a sea of them is quite the task.  I do hope you grow to enjoy balls and the crush that comes with them.  You’ll need some satisfaction to temper the disappointment.”




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A Season For Scandal

in , , by Duchess Bethany, April 08, 2022

A Season For Scandal
Deception & Discipline #2
by Golden Angel

She always dreamed of marrying a Stuart brother. Just not the one who meets her at the altar. 

When scandal sweeps through London's ballrooms, Lord Elijah Stuart's younger brother is caught in its web. Though his main duty is to England's spymaster, Elijah must forsake his work searching for the traitor to the Crown and instead focus on weddings and reputations. With both the family honor and his brother's future at stake, Elijah dutifully takes the ruined Miss Josephina Pennyworth for his very reluctant bride. 

Furious at the circumstances leading her to be wed to the wrong Stuart brother, Josephina clashes immediately with her bossy new husband. She is every bit as invested in the search for the traitor as Lord Stuart and she is no shrinking violet when it comes to danger. While Josie discovers certain aspects of married life are quite pleasurable, she doesn't permit them to distract her from her mission. As she tests her husband's patience and the boundaries of her new life, the threat lurking in the shadows grows larger and places more lives in peril. Who among them will survive?

The Plot
The story was amazing and I loved that it overlapped/carried on from the first book of the series. We get to see more of Mary and Rex! I like the ‘childhood enemies turned lovers’ trope! There was mystery, danger, romance, and LOTS of steam! 

The Heroine
Josie is the seasons Diamond of the First Water; she has many interested men, but only has eyes for one man. But he is in love with someone else…She basically grew up with Stuart boys and has been in love with the middle brother, Joseph, forever and has always been at odds with the oldest brother, Elijah.  Josie is impulsive and out spoken and being an orphaned child, she always looked out for herself and never really had to answer to anyone. But, with Elijah, she realizes she likes being cared for. 
Even as she wanted to rail against his overprotectiveness and determination not to include her, part of her liked feeling small, safe, and protected against his chest.
The Hero
Elijah never planned to get married; he was happy to let his brothers produce the next heir, instead focusing on his duties to the crown. But when fate intervenes and he sacrifices himself to marry Josie, he starts to realize he was missing something in his life. And he sees Josie in a different way, a beautiful woman instead of his little cousins friend. He really opens up to the relationship and the idea of a wife he loves. 
That was the crux of his problem, he finally realized. He had known his feelings for Josie had changed, but he had not truly understood how much until now. The most startling revelation since their marriage—he wanted her to love him because somehow, he had already fallen in love with her.
The Steam
(Fanning myself) Yes, there is lots of steam. I mean Elijah is a member of The Society, so…
“Who am I, Josie?” he asked, his lips hovering over hers. “My husband?” Confused, unsure of the response he wanted, the words came out a question. “My name, sweetheart.”
Tropes
Rake Hero, Hot Steam, Historical Romance, Season/Marriage Mart, Ton Society, Titled Hero, Detective/Agents of the Crown, Hoyden, Virgin Heroine, Enemies to Lovers, Married in Scandal, Suspense/Danger, Mystery Romance



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A Tryst By the Sea

in , , by Duchess Bethany, March 30, 2022

A Tryst By the Sea
A Siren's Retreat Quartet #1
by Grace Burrows

Vergilius, Viscount Summerton, has watched his wife grow more and more distant, and he’s determined that, this year, the marriage will start moving in a better direction. Penelope, Lady Summerton, is also determined that this year will be different. She slips off to a seaside cottage, intending that to be her first step toward a new life free of marital difficulties. Gill ends up at the same seaside inn, where he hopes to plot a wooing no wife can resist.

He’s determined to reconcile; she’s determined to pack his bags, but then, the magic of the Siren’s Retreat begins to steal over them both...

The Plot
Oh boy, this was a hard book to read; it was sad and, personally, very relatable. Penelope and Vergilius spent a better part of nine years not communicating at all. I really wished that one of them would have seen reason. Nine years seems like such a long time to suffer with what they went through and with his family.
No. I have other regrets—I wish the baby had lived. I wish we hadn’t been so young when we married. I wish… many things, but I have never regretted being your husband.” And that, to his surprise, was true. He and Penelope had grown apart, but he esteemed her, desired her, and in some stubborn way, he loved her. She had been through the fires of sorrow and loss with him as nobody else had been, and that… that mattered.
The Heroine
Penelope broke my heart. I can’t imagine being a new bride, dealing with overbearing in laws, a husband having new responsibilities thrust upon him, and suffering the death of a child. I was hoping she would have seen reason before he left the cottage, but it was even sweeter when she was finally able to read his letters. I wish she would have spoken up more for herself to him and his family.

The Hero
Vergilius broke my heart too! He lost his child and his dad shortly after, thus inheriting a TON of responsibilities. I only wish he had been more assertive with getting Penelope to come to him instead of just waiting for letters from her. It felt like he had Penelope on a pedestal and loved her from a distance, when she had no idea of his feelings or his admiration for her. 
For the next week, he would be the most charming, endearing, pleasant, soon-to-be-rejected husband in the history of husbands, and if luck was with him, Penelope would rethink this infernal annulment. He’d tried being patient. He’d tried allowing her to come to terms with her disappointment in private. He’d tried soldiering on. To blazes with all of that. The time had come to woo his wife, and the stakes could not be higher.
The Steam
This more of a heartbreaker than a love maker, but there was one scene which was just so so special.

Stand Out Moment
There were so many sweet moments between Penelope and Vergilius while they try to rekindle there marriage.

Tropes
Low Steam, Historical Romance, Titled Hero, Damaged Heroine, Politician, Miscarriage/Death of a Child, Angst Romance, Second Chance Romance



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How to Blackmail a Highlander

in , , by Duchess Bethany, March 21, 2022

How to Blackmail a Highlander
The MacGregor Lairds #3
by Michelle McLean
★★★★★
🖤🖤🤍🤍🤍

Lady Alice Chivers is done being controlled by her family. On the run from an arranged marriage, she needs a strong Highlander to escape. Only Philip MacGregor insists on sending her back to her pampered life, so she’ll just have to blackmail him instead. But now they find themselves in an accidental marriage, and soon they’re both playing a role that feels like it was meant to be real. Philip is cautious, in control, and in way over his head with his unexpected wife. She’s intense, spontaneous, and can’t follow an order to save her life. And he might be falling completely in love with her. However, her distractions endanger the lives of those he loves. Now he must somehow undo the damage that has been done, before his friends pay with their lives.

Lady Alice achievers is spoiled and impulsive and she is determined to enjoy her last days of freedom. Doomed to marry the Earl of Woolsmere, an old man who is rumored to have killed his previous three wives when they failed to give him an heir, Alice sees very little hope in her future. That is until a large Highlander pulls her aside and gives her a letter from her dear friend Elizabet. She decides her best chance of escaping her unwanted marriage is to run away with the Highlanders help. She is persistent and blackmails him into taking her to Elizabet in Scotland.

Despite their differences, she felt safe in his company. Protected, cherished even. They might argue with every other breath. And he might not always follow her counsel or wishes. But he listened. She was more than a pretty conquest to parade around. He saw the real her. He might not always approve. But he cared enough to look.
Philip is shocked when he finds Alice in his cabin when he boards the ship! Not only was she able to get away and arrive in Dover, but she also told the captain she was sharing a cabin with her ‘brother!’ Once they land in Scotland, Philip tries to send her back to Scotland, but little does Philip know that she instead stows away in his wagon!

When they reach an inn for the night, Alice is discovered and Philip is forced to keep her with him once again. When she is assaulted in the hallway, Philip comes to her rescue and she declares that Philip is her husband, which in Scotland, declaring you are wed, is just as legal as actually being married!

Finally she is reunited with Elizabet! But the celebration is short lived as Ramses finds them a few days later and a battle ensues. Alice’s impulsiveness and Philip’s concern for making Alice happy, drive them apart, but friends intervene and Philip ends of racing off after the ship she has boarded headed for home.

He loved her. He craved her. His life dulled to a meager pretense of an existence without her. And he was done fighting it.
This was a very enjoyable continuation of the MacGregor saga; I would recommend that you read them in order because there are many references to the previous books. Alice did rub my a little bit with her first attitude and goading Philip, but Philip was also a bit to ‘honorable’ for me! I loved being able to catch up with Sorcha/Malcolm and Elizabet/James.
What are you doing, Philip?” “I’m trying to get the woman I love to admit she loves me, too.” Her heart tripped fast enough it made her suck in a breath. “What did you say?” “I love ye, Alice. I have from the first moment ye looked at me with those laughing, bonnie eyes of yers. Ye blackmailed yer way into my life, and now I find I am yer very willing captive. I want ye with me, as my wife. At my home…well, on my land. I’d have to build ye a home, but I’d build ye one as grand as ye wished if it took me all of my days. Or perhaps at Kirkenroch, or at Glenlyon, or even in London if that’s where ye wish to go.

Steam

Not a lot of steam, it was a slow burn. 


Tropes

Historical Romance, Scotland Romance, Beta Hero, Starchy Hero, Highland Warrior, Virgin Heroine, Aggressive Heroine, Runaway Bride, Enemies to Lovers, Forbidden Romance, Married in Scandal, Class Difference, Forced Proximity



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The Scandalous Vixen

in , , by Duchess Bethany, March 17, 2022

The Scandalous Vixen
The Duchess Society #2
Tracy Sumner

Helena Astley, Lady Hell to the ton, has plans. To control her father’s shipping business, to live her way, by her rules. Her plan is going remarkably well until one ill-advised kiss invites the duke she doesn’t want but cannot resist into her life. Hardnosed Roan Darlington, Duke of Leighton, cares little for society or finding a duchess. The only person ever to challenge him is the incorrigible, infuriating Helena Astley. The one woman he’s never been able to forget. 

When they’re caught in a ruinous situation, Roan offers her an alternative. A sham engagement she can break off after Christmas. As they discover a world of forbidden pleasure, Helena must decide if she can relinquish a heart she vowed to withhold from the only man powerful enough to seize it. And Roan must decide if falling madly, passionately in love is worth the risk.

The Hero
Roan Darlington, Duke of Leighton was handed the dukedom at the age of 21, suddenly and out of the blue. He was not happy about the inheritance, but came to recognize his duty. He and his sister Pippa were forced out of their simple life, to one they were I’ll prepared for. 
"He spread his palm across her lower back to steady her, taking subtle possession. “You see, my darling heiress, I seek a kiss that says everything. The kiss to end all kisses. The kiss of the century. Why run the race if you’re not trying to win? That’s my rule. Or rather, my quest. That we don’t limit ourselves.” With his free hand, Roan cradled her jaw, tilting her head until her gaze pierced his. She stilled with the effort, like a feather coming to rest on a feather coverlet. “I want to show you that the heat we generate is enough to make anyone, even you, believe in the power of desire. What we do with it is up to us, I suppose.”
The Heroine
Helena Astley is the only daughter of a shipping giant, who gave her the company when he died, making her an instant outcast in society but incredibly wealthy! She is smart, witty and an amazing business woman. Her mother having died when she was little, she is lonely and has no friends outside of work relationships. 

The Plot
Roan has been pining after Helena for over a decade. He would watch her by the seashore and try to gather the nerve to speak to her. When he finally did, he botched the whole thing and ruined any chance he had with her. 

Now, it’s 10 years later and, although they still harbor strong feelings for each other, they are rude to each other and bicker every time they meet. But, when the opportunity presents itself, Roan invites Helena, and her newly discovered half sister, to his country house for the Christmastide so that her sister and his sister can get lessons from the Duchess Society. He offers to pretend a courtship with Helena so that he can help put aside rumors he accidentally when he punched a man for insulting her and save her from scandal. 

Helena and her sister arrive at Roan’s house and she starts to see a side of him that she didn’t expect, a caring and responsible side. But when he dares her to a kiss, that simple kiss leads to more and they are caught in a compromising position. Thrust into a world she is I’ll prepared for, Roan must convince Helena that he wants and loves her and the rest will fall into place. And she needs to let her guard down and open her heart to the possibility of love and a family. 

The Steam
A couple of very steamy scenes and lots of swooning! One particularly steamy scene on a pianoforte that leads to a compromising situation! 
"You see, I’m not interested in half measures. From my friends, my colleagues, or my wife. No business agreements are going to carry us through. It’s love or nothing for me. You have mine, you always have, but I must have yours in return. Or I can’t do this, Hellie. I can’t.”
Final Thoughts
Once again, Ms. Sumner’s book gives me all the feels! Such a good book and, since, all three storylines in this series are so different, I know it is Tracy’s writing that can pull me into any romance she can put to paper!

Tropes
Regency Era, Historical Romance, House Party, Holiday Romance, Titled Hero, Spinster Heroine, Wallflower Heroine,  Matchmaker Heroine, Independent Heroine, Working Heroine, Experienced Heroine, Angst Romance, Unrequited love, Second Chance Romance, Enemies to Lovers, Fake Relationship, Married in Scandal, Class Difference, Rake Hero, Sudden Nobility/Rags to Riches, Dare or Bet, Dirty Talk, Five Star, Four Flame


RegencyEra, HistoricalRomance, HouseParty, HolidayRomance, TitledHero, SpinsterHeroine, WallflowerHeroine,  MatchmakerHeroine, IndependentHeroine, WorkingHeroine, ExperiencedHeroine, AngstRomance, Unrequitedlove, SecondChanceRomance, EnemiestoLovers, FakeRelationship, MarriedinScandal, ClassDifference, RakeHero, SuddenNobility/ragstoriches, DareorBet, DirtyTalk, Fivestar, fourflame
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How to Ensnare a Highlander

in , , by Duchess Bethany, March 13, 2022
How To Ensnare A Highlander
The MacGregor Lairds #2
Michelle McLean
★★★★★

Lady Elizabet Harding is an only child to Lord and Lady Dawsey who only see her as their biggest financial asset and promise her to Ferguson Ramsey who ‘purchases her’ to help her parents financially. Laird John MacGregor is a Scottish Highlander, who secretly spends his nights as the Highland Highwayman stealing from corrupt gentry to give back to others. 
“A kiss from such a lady would be worth more money than I have to give. And I am no’ such a blackguard as to force myself on an unwilling woman. I would be honored to kiss ye. In truth, ’tis taking considerable restraint to refrain from tasting these sweet lips.”
Their paths cross when he rescues her from her runaway horse and again when he holds up her carriage. When Elizabet is accidentally shot during the encounter, John takes her with him to treat her wound which turns into a month of them getting closer and falling for each other. But knowing that Elizabet is the daughter of Johns enemy and practically engaged to another, she is the one person he can’t get close to to, even if that’s all he wants. 

After recovering in the Highlands, John reluctantly returns her home to her parents. But when he sees her in a London ballroom, he can’t stay away. Desperate to get out of her impending marriage, she blackmails John into asking the king for her hand in marriage.  The King refuses and, when Elizabet and John try to run away, John is shot and presumed dead. Days later, when she finds out he is still alive, she does whatever she can to go to him. 
“He shook his head. “Oh nay, my lady.” He ran his hands up her arms and pulled her close. “If ye wish us to marry, ye will be my wife in every way. You will honor me.” He gently kissed her cheek. “And obey me.” He kissed the other cheek. “And keep my home in order.” His hand trailed down to rest against her neck, his fingers brushing against the pulse at the base of her throat. “And bear my heirs.” Her heart hammered in her chest, but before she could say a word, he bent to brush his lips across hers. “And ye will warm my bed every night without fail.” She couldn’t breathe. Her head spun. He’d barely touched her, and she seemed on the verge of fainting. The thought of what sensations he might draw from her within their marriage bed sent a tremor of anticipation down her spine. His mouth hovered over hers. “And you will enjoy every moment of it, I promise ye that.”
Just like the previous book in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed it! I don’t mind low steam as long as there is an interesting plot with lots of swoony looks exchanged and romantic phrases whispered, which Ms. McLean definitely delivers in her books!

Steam 
There was lots of swoon and one steamy scene.

Tropes
Stuart Era, Historical Romance, Scotland Romance, Steam outdoors, Highland Warrior, Titled hero, Super Protective Hero, Beta hero, Virgin heroine, Criminal/Thief, Angst Romance, Blackmail, Instant attraction, Forbidden romance, Suspense/danger, Revenge trope, Forced proximity, Hidden Identity, Nursed Back to Health





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How to Lose a Highlander

in , by Duchess Bethany, March 10, 2022

How to Lose a Highlander
The MacGregor Lairds #1
Michelle McLean
★★★★★

When the King decides that the best way to find peace between the MacGregor and Campbell clans is to marry them together, Malcolm and Sorcha find themselves married two hours later! Although there is definitely attraction between them, they are centuries old enemies and both are trying to make the other miserable. Malcolm tries bad manners and indifference, while Sorcha tries being rude and annoying. But, since they are both stubborn Scots, neither won concedes and they find themselves enjoying each other’s company and getting past their family feud. But when their castle is attacked, it will put their love and trust to the ultimate test.  
"His breath was faster, more erratic. As was hers. When her hand slid to his thigh, he reached down and stopped her, covering her hand with his own. “Ye might want to stop there, lass. Unless ye’ve decided to explore the benefits of married life after all.” Her gaze shot to his and then back down to where the kilt he wore no longer lay straight across his lap and jumped to her feet, her heart pounding. “My apologies,” she stammered. He grinned at her. “Nay apologies necessary, lass. That was the best part of my day.”

“Let it bide, love. We have our whole lives to explore each other. Rest now. Ye’ll need it.” “Will I?” “Oh, aye. I dinna plan on letting ye out of this bed for at least a week.” That sounded heavenly to her.

The plot was really well done; the circumstances were believable and the characters played into it perfectly. I didn’t get annoyed with either Malcolm or Sorcha with their many attempts to push the other away. There were enough secondary characters to move the story along, some of which became integral parts in the overall plot! Having Malcolm and Sorcha, unknowingly, kiss the night before their forced wedding allowed them to both realize they were attracted to each other regardless of their feud which made it harder for them to hate each other!


The Heroine

Sorcha Campbell is Scottish, buy grew up in the British court, so after being married and journeying far away to the Scottish highlands with no friends or family to an unfamiliar place, she is rightfully nervous. She adapts quickly and finds she enjoys a simpler life and their traditions and she starts to see it as her home.  She has been so brainwashed by her fathers hate for the MacGregors that she is even slower to trust him than Malcolm is of her! 


The Hero

Malcolm MacGregor is a typical Scot, tall, muscular and red-haired, feared by everyone, but he is an honest, gentleman who has a sweet side once you get past his exterior. Even being forced to marry, he promises Sorcha’s father to look after her safety which he does on several occasions. His admiration and care for Sorcha is just so sweet and he truly does want their marriage to work because he would love to have a family and she also softens him. 


The Steam

There is one bedroom scene but, honestly, the romance and adventure was so well written and swoon that I didn’t mind at all! 

Stand Out Moment

Several scenes come to mind, but when Malcolm canes back from fighting and she stitches him up is probably my favorite!


Who Would Like This

If you are looking for a romantic adventure set in the Scottish highlands, you can’t go wrong picking this gem up!


Final Thoughts

I love when I am sad at the end of a book such as this one, so I am going to immediately start on book two!


Tropes
Steam warm, Scotland highlands, Titled Hero, Beta Hero, Virgin heroine, New Girl in Town, Enemies to Lovers, Marriage of Convenience, Stuck Together, Scotland, Highland Warrior 

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