Title: All’s Fair in Love and War
(Miss Prentice’s Protegees #1)
Author: Virginia Heath
Published: May 2024
Rate: 5 of 5
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Romance-Comedy, Opposite-attracts, Enemies-to-Friends-to-Lovers

Blurb:

A new Regency romp of a series, about governess who believes in cultivating joy in her charges, clashes with the children’s uncle who hired her, only to find herself falling in love.

When the flighty older sister of former naval captain, Harry Kincaid, decides on a whim to accompany her explorer husband on an expedition to Egypt, he finds himself unwittingly left in the lurch with her three unruly children and her giant, mad dog. With no clue how to manage the little rascals, a busy career at the Admiralty that requires all of his attention, and no idea when his sister is coming back, Harry has to hire and emergency governess to ensure that everything in his ordered house continues to run shipshape. In desperation, he goes to Miss Prentice’s School for Girls prepared to pay whatever it takes to get a governess quick sharp to bring order to the chaos.

Thanks to her miserable, strict upbringing, fledging governess Georgina Rowe does not subscribe to the ethos that children should be seen and not heard. She believes childhood should be everything that hers wasn’t, filled with laughter, adventure, and discovery. Thankfully, the three Pendleton children she has been tasked with looking after are already delightfully bohemian and instantly embrace her unconventional educational ethos. Their staid, stickler-for-rules uncle however, is another matter entirely...

My Review:

Who doesn’t love a swoon-worthy naval captain with endless compassion for his nieces and nephew?

This first book in the series starts off by introducing the main characters for this series and the slow pace is designed to keep up with the plot. Harry’s ordered world is suddenly turned upside down when his sister leaves her three children to be looked after while she is away for around three months. His life is dedicated to building a career in the Admiralty after his past failures thus he must find a governess to educate her three unruly children, Felix, Marianne, and Grace.

Georgie is still unemployed at Miss Prentice’s school, when all her friends have managed to get jobs. After living with her stepfather, she loathes all the strict things about the navy but when a desperate naval captain requires a governess, she has to keep her mouth shut to get the job.

I loved this book so much because of the children within. Felix, Marriane, Grace, and their dog Norbert are all the stars of this book. Their lawless behaviour brings so much fun and joy throughout the story. I loved how educated Georgie is and how thoughtful and compassionate Harry is. Their quote-misquote pattern was so amusing. The story is undeniably entertaining, full of adventure and heart-warming turn of events. Their attraction might be slow but it burns all the way to the satisfying end.

About the author

When Virginia Heath was a little girl, it took her ages to fall asleep, so she made up stories in her head to help pass the time while she was staring at the ceiling. As she got older, the stories became more complicated – sometimes taking weeks to get to the happy ending. One day, she decided to embrace the insomnia and start writing them down. Twenty books and two Romantic Novel of the Year Award nominations later, and it still takes her forever to fall asleep. Follow her at https://www.virginiaheathromance.com/ or her facebook page Virginia Heath.

Picture and blurb source: goodreads.com

 

Title: The Warrior’s Forbidden Maiden
(The Warrior of Wales #2)
Author: Lissa Morgan
Published: May 2024
Rate: 5 of 5
Genre: Medieval Wales, Historical Romance, Childhood Lovers, Mills and Boon Historical, Harlequin Historical

Blurb:

Will forbidden love become forever love in this medieval romance?

The warrior’s fiercest battle?

His duty versus his desire...

Seven years ago, Llywelyn was ready to renounce everything to become a monk. But on the eve of his departure, he shared a forbidden night with his childhood sweetheart, Cristin. Then his world was turned upside down by the death of his brother...which left Llywelyn as his family’s sole heir, duty bound to fight on the battlefield. Now a hardened warrior, he’s reunited with Cristin. But will he return to his vocation...or remain with his love?

My Review:

Looking for a medieval romance set in the beautiful Wales and featuring childhood lovers? Then this is the book for you!

Set in the stunning Wales, I was thoroughly taken into the characters and the story from the beginning. Llywelyn, a monk-to-be, must become a warrior and lord after the death of his brother, although he despises the thought. When he takes over the castle after the Norman invasion, he meets his childhood sweetheart, Cristin. After seven years of separation, his desire for her never vanishes. Well, our hero might be fierce and stubborn, but his affection for Cristin is utterly endearing despite her status. Our read-haired heroine, Cristin, is loyal to the core. Even when she needs help herself in times of danger, she continues to protect and serve her lords. I loved how passionate, strong and brave Cristin is. Moreover she is determined to enjoy her time with Llywelyn even though the future may not bring them together.

I couldn’t tell you how much I enjoyed the anguish and emotional rollercoaster of the story and how ugly a war is. Despite this, Lissa Morgan managed to balance it with the cutest cat which isn’t afraid of Llywelyn, the beauty of Wales, its mound and wildflowers. The festivities were written so vividly that I could imagine myself being there. The obstacles that Cristin and Llywelyn face with their status quo, made me wonder what choice they would make and whether they would be happy but, hey it’s romance! In fact, the ending was absolutely beautiful, uplifting and heart-warming.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading the second book of The Warrior of Wales. Lissa Morgan has always brought something quite refreshing to the table. A picture of Wales and characters you feel engaged with. Thank you, Lissa Morgan, for the digital copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

About the author

Lissa Morgan hails from Wales but has travelled far and wide over the years, usually in pursuit of the next new job, but always pursuing her passion for the past along the way too. She once worked as tour guide at Hampton Court Palace where she donned her sumptuous Tudor gowns – replicas of course – in Catherine of Aragon’s chambers! Now a part-time web designer, Lissa lives in rugged north-west Wales surrounded by medieval castles that provide the perfect inspiration for her writing. Follow Lissa on her website: https://lissamorgan.com/, facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lissamorganhistoricalromance or Twitter: https://twitter.com/LissaMorganAuth

Picture and blurb source: goodreads.com

Title: A Pregnancy Bombshell to Bind Them
Author: Annie West
Published: April 2024
Rate: 5 of 5
Genre: Unexpected Pregnancy, Contemporary Romance, Harlequin Presents, Mills & Boon Modern

Blurb:

Their fling has a consequence that will make the front page! Read all about it in this surprise-baby romance from USA TODAY bestselling author Annie West.

Breaking

She’s having the billionaire’s baby!

Model Laura is filming on location when she’s swept off her feet by wildly attractive Vassili. After a lifetime of lies, Laura’s drawn to his honesty – he doesn’t do commitment. Until she learns he’s engaged, and that she’s pregnant...

Greek tycoon Vassili is furious his family fabricated his engagement, especially as Laura now won’t return his calls. When a newspaper reports she’s expecting, Vassili tracks her down and discovers it’s true! A convenient marriage would secure his heir, but it will take more than a ring to rebuild their trust...

My Review:

Who could resist a book with a surprise baby and being whisked away to a stunning private island in Greece?

A hot sizzling scene was a very tempting way to start this book. That’s right, Laura and Vassili begin their affair in Australia where they enjoy their no-string relationship. I loved how Annie West wrote how hungry Vassily is for Laura, even though he has spent his desire with her from the beginning. Unfortunately, Vassili has an urgent matter to attend to in Greece and must return immediately. Laura is unaware of the reason for Vassili’s hurried return, but when she knows it, she is furious and determined not to be contacted by him. Until her pregnancy is on the news and they have to hide from the paparazzi.

I have always been a huge fan of Annie West’s books, especially her surprise baby books and this one includes. Laura is a strong, brave and independent. She is determined to dislike Vassili after his engagement and keep him at arm’s length while Vassili is so caring, protective and possessive. I found Vassili very attractive, not only because he is a Greek but also because he is a thrill seeker.

I loved the way Annie revealed the surprises and the past at a steady pace until the peak at the end blew me away. I also loved the way Annie depicts the vivid and beautiful island with the ruined temple. It is so mesmerizing. It’s a story where surprise after surprise, all-consuming passion, a hideout on a private island and a powerful drama become a wonderful romance. Thank you, Annie West, for the ARC, which I voluntarily reviewed.

About the author

USA Today Bestselling author Annie West loves writing passionate, intense love stories. She has devoted her life to and in depth study of tall, dark charismatic heroes who cause the best kind of trouble in the lives of their heroines who are a perfect match for those strong stubborn men is one of her all time favorite things. As a sideline she’s also researched dreamy locations for romance, from vibrant cities to desert encampments and fairytale castles.

Annie won the Romantic Rimes Reviewers’ Choice Award for ‘Protected by the Prince’ and the Australian Romance Writers’ Romantic Book of the Year Award for ‘Damaso Claims His Hair’. Romantic Times said in its review of The Sheikh’s Ransomed Bride ‘This is what a love story could be’.

As well as writing for Harlequin/Mills and Boon, Annie also publishes shorter contemporary romances like her Hot Italian Nights e-novella series.

She lives with her family at beautiful Lake Macquarie on the east coast of Australia, situated neatly between spectacular sandy beaches and gorgeous wine country. She loves reading, good company, good food, long walks and travel.

You can catch Annie’s news at her website https://www.annie-west.com/  or via Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/anniewest.author She loves to hear from readers and you can contact her at annie(at)annie-west(dot)com. To sign up for her email newsletter with behind the scenes information and updates, go to https://madmimi.com/signups/109660/join

Picture and blurb source: https://www.goodreads.com/
 

 

Title: The Knight’s Rebellious Maiden
(The Knight’s Mission #1)
Author: Ella Matthews
Published: April 2024
Rate: 5 of 5
Genre: Historical Romance, Medieval Romance, Forced Proximity, Harlequin Historical, Mills & Boon Historical

Blurb:

Enjoy the start of Ella Matthews’s new medieval trilogy and enter the world of the king’s trusted knights! He’s her protector. She’s his forbidden temptation! Sir Leopold’s first mission is supposed to be a chance to prove his valor. But tasked with safety escorting Lady Arianwen to her husband-to-be, Leo finds he is little but a glorified bodyguard. Only, the seemingly simple mission goes awry when Ari proved that she’s willing to do anything to get away from her impending nuptials. As attraction sparks between them, can Leo choose knightly duty over love and deliver Ari to her wedding?

My Review:

Interested in a lady heroine who wants to be a warrior? Then you might be interested to know that the lovely and clever Ari has our hero, Leo struggling in his mission!

Leo assumes that his mission to become the king’s trusted knight will be easy, to prove to his parents that he is as worthy as his brother, but when he first steps into the castle of his mission, he can’t stop gazing at Ari, as if she has captivated him with her beauty, and likewise. I absolutely loved their first encountered as their spark was undeniable and made my heart beat as fast as Ari’s.

I found Leo impulsive, charming and a little dramatic but his ability and fame in combat is unquestionable. He doesn’t realize that he has fallen in love with Ari at first sight. Ah I loved Ari so much, she might appear to be a demure lady especially in her demeanour and her character, but underneath, she is powerful, too clever and talented, albeit too innocent.

I thoroughly enjoyed their sparring and banter during their journey. Ari is determined to escape the unwanted wedding and achieve her dream, as is Leo. Their chase is a cat-and-mouse game that kept me on the edge of my seat. The plot is a bit suspenseful, especially in the last chapters. I kept on pondering how the ending would be if one had to sacrifice one’s dream. Still, it kept me turning the pages.

It’s engrossingly entertaining and heart-pounding. I was thoroughly entertained by Leo and Ari and the ending is what I was hoping for. I also look forward to reading Leo’s two knight friends on their own missions! Thank you, Ella Matthews, for the digital copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

About the author

Ella Matthews lives and works in beautiful South Wales. When not thinking about handsome heroes, she can be found walking along the coast with her husband and their two children (probably still thinking about heroes, but at least pretending to be interested in everyone else). Follow her at https://www.ellamatthews.co.uk/ or her Twitter at https://twitter.com/ellamattauthor

Picture and blurb source: https://www.goodreads.com/

 

Title: Peers and Parasols
(Lords and Ladies St. James #6)
Author: Rachel Ann Smith, Anna St. Claire, Aubrey Wynne,
Lauren Smith, Catherine Stein, Lara Temple
Published: March 2024
Rate: 5 of 5
Genre: Historical Romance, Mystery, Adventure,
Regency Romance, Suspense, Forced-Proximity

Blurb:

A collection of five exclusive novellas by your favourite historical romance authors all featuring Peers and Parasols.

They say...

Parasols are to protect one from the sun

But for five Peers...

Grab your copy of Peers and Parasols today and fall into the fantastic titles below:

Book 6 – Peers and Parasols

Kissed by a Scoundrel by USA Today Bestselling Author, Anna St. Claire

Poisons, Potions, and Parasols by USA Today Bestselling Author, Aubry Wynne

Her Fair Lady by Catherine Stein

Swindled by a Spinster by Rachel Ann Smith

The Seduction of Miss Standish by Lara Temple

My Review:

Who could turn down five novellas by five wonderful authors? A mystery, an adventure, a parasol in a romance? Very interesting! And who would believe that I read all these novellas in one sitting?

I’m a huge fan of Lara Temple’s books but after reading all the stories, four other amazing authors have been added to the list! From the very first story, you will be hooked with the story of Belle and Max by Lara Temple. This enemies turns lovers is so wonderful that I thought it was too short and needed more. Belle’s sharp wit kept me amused. Max may be annoyed by Belle’s interference in his plan, but their banter and strong attraction made the reading more enjoyable and engaging. Especially when it comes to the parasol, who would have thought it could deceive you?

The second story is about Torrance and Phoebe by Rachel Ann Smith. Torrance is an agent of the Home Office and Phoebe is his informant. This intriguing mystery and love intertwine in a steamy and sweet story!

The third story is Sebastian and Kathie by Anna St. Claire. The story begins with a tragic incident that brings Sebastian and Kathie. The plot is full of mystery and suspense that is mixed with the romantic journey of Sebastian and Kathie with a charming and wonderful ending.

The fourth story is about Helena and Amabel by Catherine Stein. They meet through a mystery, a game of lies and flirtation and it was wonderful.

And the final story is by Aubry Wynne where several mysteries come together. I thoroughly enjoyed Genie and Clayton as the fate and a parasol bring them together.

I really couldn’t put the book down. I need a longer story from each of them! All the stories are wonderful with the author’s special writing and engrossing plot. The adventure, the parasol, the mystery, the suspense, the smitten heroes and their romantic and steamy affair make it a wonderful collection. I hope I can get more stories for the side characters as they are so compelling. Thank you very much, Lara Temple, for the digital copy which I was happy to review.

About the author

Lara Temple is an award-winning author of sensual and emotional historical romance. She lives with her husband, two children, and one very fluffy dog, and they are all very understanding about her taking over the kitchen table so she can look out over the garden as she dreams up her Happy Ever Afters.

Discover more about Lara and her books –

Website: https://www.laratemple.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaraTempleAuthor

Rachel Ann Smith writes steamy historical romance with a twist. Her debut series, Agents of the Home Office, features female protagonists that defy convention. When Rachel isn’t writing she loves to read and spend time with the family. You will often find her with her eReader, by the pool during the summer, or on the side-lines of the soccer field in the spring and fall or curled up on the couch during the winter months. She currently lives in Texas with her extremely understanding husband and their two very supportive children. Rachel Ann also writes contemporary romance under Rachel A. Smith. You can sign-up for her newsletter here: https://www.rachelannsmith.com/

Catherine Stein

Award-winning author Catherine Stein (she/her) believes that everyone deserves love and that Happily Ever After has the power to help, to heal, and to comfort. She writes sassy, sexy romance full of action, adventure, history, magic, and fantastic technologies.

Catherine lives in Michigan with her friends-to-lovers romance hero and their three nerdlings. She loves steampunk and Oxford commas, and can often be found dressed in Renaissance Festival clothing, drinking copious amounts of tea. You can find more information about Catherine and all her books at her website: https://www.catsteinbooks.com/

Aubrey Wynne

USA Today Bestselling author Aubrey Wynne resides in the Midwest with her husband, dogs, horses, mule, and barn cats. Obsessions include wine, history, travel, trail riding, and all things Christmas. Her Chicago Christmas series has received multiple awards and was twice nominated as a Rone finalist by InD’tale Magazine. Aubrey’s first love is medieval romance but after dipping her toe in the Regency period in 2018 with the Wicked Earls’ Club, she was smitten. This inspired her spin-off series Once Upon a Widow and the Scottish Regency series A MacNaughton Castle Romance with Dragonblade Novels. In 2024, Aubrey will launch Paddy’s Peeler, a Regency detective series.

Stay in touch with Aubrey:

Website: https://aubreywynne.com/

Image: https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1680621500i/124950107.jpg