Blog Tour - The Rancher's Temporary Engagement by Stacy Henrie

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

The Rancher's Temporary Engagement

by Stacy Henrie

Inspirational Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 288 pages

February 1st 2018 by Love Inspired Historical

Undercover Fiancée

The Pinkerton agent that Edward Kent hired is intelligent, capable—and unexpectedly female! Though shocked to learn that Maggy Worthing will be investigating the threats to his Wyoming horse ranch, Edward needs to find the culprit. And if that means a temporary engagement to give Maggy a cover story, he’ll play along with the feisty detective.

Maggy always gets her man—at least when it comes to solving crimes. The young widow refuses to marry again and land under another husband’s thumb. Unmasking Edward’s enemies will earn her a longed-for promotion…but the heart has its own mysteries. Could working together with the handsome English aristocrat spark a real and loving partnership?

Excerpt:

“The Calvary won’t want horses from someone who’s a failure, Maggy.” The hard tenor of Edward’s voice made her wince. He wrenched his arm free of her grasp and stepped toward the burning building once more.

Should she run and get someone to help her? She was strong, but she wasn’t sure she was strong enough to stop Edward on her own by sheer force. If she left his side, though, he would likely be halfway inside the burning stable by the time she returned. She would have to try a different tactic.

Stepping in front of him, she gripped his face between her palms. The heat of the fire baked her back, but she wouldn’t give up on Edward, not without a fight. And a fight could well be the result of what she was about to do.

She tipped his head toward her. Then, ignoring the steely quality in his gray eyes, she pressed her lips firmly to his. His jaw stiffened briefly beneath her hands, but Maggy didn’t let it deter her. She poured all the fears and joys she’d experienced over the last month into her kiss.

Long moments later, to her intense relief, she felt Edward relax. The bucket in his grasp hit the ground as his hand settled at her waist.

Her pulse treaded faster, no longer from fear but pure contentment as Edward kissed her back.

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About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Stacy Henrie is the author of western romances and the Of Love and War series, which includes Hope at Dawn, a 2015 RITA Award finalist for excellence in romance. She was born and raised in the West, where she currently resides with her family. She enjoys reading, road trips, interior decorating, chocolate, and most of all, laughing with her husband and kids.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

Tour Schedule

February 5th:
Launch
Janice's Book Reviews
Heidi Reads...
Teatime and Books
A Greater Yes
February 6th:
Locks, Hooks and Books
The Power of Words
Paulette's Papers
SilverWoodSketches
February 7th:
Katie’s Clean Book Collection
Books n Baubles
Reading Is My SuperPower
Faithfully Bookish
Cafinated Reads
February 8th:
Hearts & Scribbles
Remembrancy
I Am A Reader
Among the Reads
February 9th:
Tell Tale Book Reviews
Bookworm Nation 
Rockin' Book Reviews
For the Love of Books
February 10th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

- 1 winner will receive a $40 Amazon e-gift card (open internationally)
- 1 winner will receive a signed print copy of Stacy's novella anthology, LOVE FOR ALL SEASONS (US only)

- Ends February 14th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Convenient Christmas Wedding by Regina Scott

A Convenient Christmas Wedding by Regina Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the Frontier Bachelor series, but stands very well on its own. I haven’t read the other books yet (planning to), but jumped to this one since I’m reading Christmas books right now.

I thought this was a sweet story. I really liked Nora, I thought she was an interesting character. I love how she turns Simon’s life upside down. He can be a bit of a fuddy-duddy, but she brings out a better side to him. I’m always a sucker for a good marriage of convenience story and thought it was well done here. There are some really sweet moments and fun interactions between the characters. I liked the Christmas elements, and cozy setting. Overall, a fun read!

Content: Clean, mild kissing, no language or violence. Moderate religious elements.


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Beauty and the Clockwork Beast by Nancy Campbell Allen

Beauty and the Clockwork Beast by Nancy Campbell Allen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5

I've wanted to give the Steampunk genre a try for a long time now and was excited when I saw that one of my favorite authors wrote a book in this genre. I get to try out the genre by an author I trust and throw in a good Beauty and the Beasy plot and it turned out being pretty epic.

Lucy Pickett will do anything to help her cousing Kate. Kate is newly married and has taken up residence with her new husband at the family estate of Blackwell Manor. Home to the emfamous Earl of Blackwell, Lord Miles. Lord Miles has always been an outcast, but never moreso than when his wife mysteriously dies a month into their marrige, and his sister the very next day. Lucy is a fun character, she very self-assured and tenatious. She's a rising star in her field, but puts that all on hold to help her belovd cousin. She's has a good read on people and sees through Lord Mile's rough exterior to the good man beneath. I liked Lord Miles, I always like the broody hero that secretly has a caring heart. Lucy and Miles have great chemistry, the can but heads one minute and have a swoony moment the next. Lots of tension and obstacles for them to overcome.

I read a lot of regencies (I'm not sure if this is technically a regency, can't remember what year it was supposed to take place, but it feels like a regency timeframe), and I thought the added Steampunk and Paranormal elements were fun and unique. The mystery keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat, you won't want to put this one down. Can't wait to read more from this series!

Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Series: Steampunk Proper Romance, #1

Source: Netgalley, will be purchasing a hardcopy for my personal collection!

View all my reviews

From Cairo, With Love by Nancy Campbell Allen

From Cairo, With Love by Nancy Campbell Allen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m a big fan of the Timeless Romance Anthologies, and love that they’re publishing these Single novellas now. I was excited to see one of my favorite authors Nancy Campbell Allen had written one. I obviously jumped at the chance to read it.

This was a fun read, a well developed novella that is able to capture your attention and hold you tight until the end. I’m a sucker for a good romance, but also love when there is a little suspense thrown in to keep our characters (and us) on our toes. I thought this had a fun setting, likable characters and sweet romance. A great read when you’re looking for a quick escape.

Content: Clean

Source: Review copy


View all my reviews

Sarah M Eden British Isles Collection

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Sarah M. Eden British Isles Collection by Sarah M. Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This has been nominated for a 2015 Swoony Award, you can vote for it here.



A Friend Indeed
Sweet and swoony! I really enjoyed the story of George and Caroline. They have known each other since childhood and recently became engaged. Caroline is worried he is only doing it out of friendship and obligation, and George is determined to show her his real reason for wanting to get married. George really had some swoony moments; he just seems like such a nice guy. While it is a short story, it takes place over a few weeks and felt well developed and I was satisfied with the pace and how things wrapped up. Great read.



A Happy Beginning
Loved it! This was a great story with great characters. I probably will sound like a broken record when I review each story and end up saying the same thing, “I really enjoyed it!” Sophia works as a governess for a horrible family in Scotland. She feels alone since her position limits her interactions with the rest of the staff and family. She has grown fond of the head groom, Dermot, who is quiet and confident. This was just another nice escape, well written and engaging. Had all the great elements of a full-length novel wrapped up in a short story. Highly enjoyable.



Road to Cavan Town
I loved this! I was immediately drawn into this charming story. Alice is just lovely, just a really good person and easy to like. She is so patient and understanding of Issac, even though he has his mind set on courting another woman. Isaac was also likable, I was glad we got to hear his POV as well, it was fun to watch his eyes open and see what really mattered in his life. It really is a sweet story and even though it was short, it was full of fun characters, lovely romantic tension and a charming Irish town.



A Christmas Promise
This is such a charming story. I loved everything about it, the setting and characters and humor. Sean and Maeve have a sweet courtship, I loved her overprotective brothers and of course Rufus! Just a charming story.



Dream of a Glorious Season
Beth and Julian have been friends since childhood, she’s had a crush on him for as long as she can remember, he still views her as a friend. He also happens to be “betrothed” to her older sister, or at least there is an expectation that they will make a match of it. Beth’s family does not treat her very well, but Julian is always there for her. I thought they had a great story, I liked seeing Julian realize his feelings run deeper than friendship. I also loved how he always stood up for her. Another fun story!



A Lesson in Love,
I originally read this when it was part of the European collection. It had been awhile though so it was fun to read it again. Lucy and Reed are a sweet, newlywed couple. You can tell they are in love from the beginning of the story, they just have different ideas of what their social life would be like once they’re married. Reed is excited to spend time at home, not having to attend the Season. Lucy on the other hand, is excited to finally have a husband to enjoy all the Season has to offer. Their well-meaning, but meddlesome family decides to “help” the couple out, but only end up causing more problems. This was a cute read, I like reading about couples that are already married, and it was fun to see them figure things out. Sweet read.



I adored this collection of stories, Ms. Eden is an expert storyteller. She always pulls me into her stories, makes me fall in love with the characters and makes you want to step back in time. I love how each story is unique, good plots and characters you can’t help but root for. Swoony romance and just a fun escape. Highly recommend to fans of historical fiction.



Content: Clean

Source: Review copy, also bought my own copy






View all my reviews

Marrying Christopher by Michele Paige Holmes

Marrying Christopher by Michele Paige Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve been looking forward to reading this one for awhile now. I really enjoyed the first two books, and loved the character of Christopher and was looking forward to his story. If you’re not aware, this series follows a family of two sisters and their brother. They’re best if read in order, in my opinion, although they can stand well on their own as well.

Christopher was a very likable character, I love how loyal and protective he is of his sisters. I love stories with strong sibling relationships. As much as he loves his sisters, he wants to make a life for his own, in America. The other books were set in England and thought Christophers journey was a nice change of pace. On his journey to America he meets Marsali. Marsali has had a rough life, something Christopher can relate to with his own untraditional upbringing.

Overall, this was an emotional read and it was great to be along for the ride as Christopher follows his dreams and gets his happily ever after. If you enjoy Regency or Historical Fiction, I highly recommend this series.

Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild
Religious: None


View all my reviews

Cover Reveal: Simply Anna by Jennifer Moore

I've quickly become a fan of Jennifer Moore's historical romance books. They are so much fun! I was excited the other day when I learned she had a new book coming out and that the cover reveal would be today. I've been checking back frequently and it's finally up. Not only is the cover pretty, but the book sounds like it will be a lot of fun. Can't wait to read it!

September 2015

Synopsis:
Suffering from a cruel heartbreak, Lord Philip Hamilton has been driven to seek refuge from the painful memories haunting London, and his father's Jamacian sugar cane plantation provides just the escape he needs. Philip finds solace in his hard work and takes comfort in the fact that his distance from society ensures that his heart will be protected from future entanglements. Protected, that is, until the unexpected appearance of a mysterious woman with no memory of her past. The only clue to her identity is a necklace with a name: Anna.

In a matter of weeks, this gentle, intelligent, and impossibly beautiful stranger turns Philip's world upside down. But as the bond between the pair grows, the threat to Philip losing his heart once more is only the beginning of the dangers that await. Island renegades and a ruthless band of pirates clash in a swashbuckling battle, and it soon becomes clear that these villians may be the key to unlicking Anna's past...

The Christmas Bargain by Shanna Hatfield

Luke Granger is about to get more than he bargained for… As owner and manager of the Hardman bank, Luke Granger is a man of responsibility and integrity in the small 1890s Eastern Oregon town. Calling in a long overdue loan, Luke finds himself reluctantly accepting a bargain in lieu of payment from the shiftless farmer who barters his daughter to settle his debt. Philamena Booth is both mortified and relieved when her father sends her off with the banker as payment of his debt. Held captive on the farm by her father since the death of her mother more than a decade earlier, Philamena is grateful to leave. If only it had been someone other than the handsome and charismatic Luke Granger riding in to rescue her. Ready to uphold her end of the bargain as Luke’s cook and housekeeper, Philamena is prepared for the hard work ahead. What she isn’t prepared for is being forced to marry Luke as part of this crazy Christmas bargain.

I loved the setting and time period of this one. Based on the real town of Hardman, Oregon (which is now a ghost town) it was easy to step back in time and imagine what life would have been like back then. I liked that it took place around the early 1890’s and I liked how the author worked in their “modern” inventions into the story. It’s fun to think about how things we take for granted now used to be a nifty invention back then. I liked the mix of the old west with a touch of the modern, at least modern for them. I also love marriage of convenience stories and liked how that plot was used here. Luke is a successful banker and in a moment of weakness agrees to take a wife in order to cover the debt. Philamena Booth once had a happy childhood, but that all changed when her mother passed away and her father turned to drinking to try and forget how good he once had it. She has spent the last thirteen years in isolation and being abused by her father. While she had a really hard time, I’m glad the ugliness of what she went through wasn’t dwelled on. The story picks up right when Luke takes Philamena away and for the most part the story is lighthearted and conflict-free. I thought Philamena and Luke had a sweet relationship and were good for each other.

Overall, this is a pleasant step back in time to when life seemed so much simpler. I loved the story takes place over Christmas and thought it added a nice festive feel to the story. A nice, cozy read.

Welcome to the

Cowboys & Christmas

Blog Tour!

A kickoff of two new holiday romances by Shanna Hatfield

and a fundraiser for the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund

An Interview with Shanna Hatfield

Shanna Hatfield writes character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”

What inspired you to write the Hardman Holidays Series? I chose the town of Hardman as the setting because it was fun to imagine what the town as like back when it was booming. Today, Hardman is a ghost town. I wrote this particular series because I enjoy creating strong female characters and men brave enough to walk beside them.

What's the series about? Hope. Faith. Love. It’s about never giving up, finding inner strength, and giving love a chance. Filly faces a dismal future until Luke opens a new door for her. Ginny is running away from her past, trying to find a future. Alex thinks her nomadic lifestyle will keep her from ever experiencing true love. Despite everything, each of them hold onto the hope that tomorrow will be a new, better day.

What made you decide to make this a holiday series? I love historical romances, especially those set during the holiday season. Tying in a holiday theme to each story seemed like a perfect fit for the setting and the characters.

Tell us a little about your main characters. Filly is the heroine from The Christmas Bargain, the first book in the series. Much braver than she thinks, she’s endured her father’s abuse and imprisonment on their farm for thirteen years. Luke Granger accepts her in lieu of payment on a loan just to get her away from the cruel man she used to call Papa. She needs all the courage, strength, and humor she can find when the pastor insists Luke take her as his bride. Ginny is the feisty lead character in The Christmas Token, the second book in the series. She grew up in Hardman and fell in love with Blake Stratton. Since he came from a poor family, her mother decided to whisk her away before the two teens could wed. Relocated to New York City, Ginny enjoys life there until she arrives back in Hardman quite unexpectedly and realizes she never stopped loving Blake. In The Christmas Calamity, the newly-released third book in the series, Alexandra Janowski is a prestidigitator on the run from her past, from men out to do her harm, and the opportunity to fall in love. Forced to stay in Hardman while the blacksmith repairs her wagon, she finds her heart and thoughts drawn to banker Arlan Guthry.

Where do you get the inspiration to write? My inspiration for sitting down every day and writing comes from the fact that I love doing it and there is nothing else I’d rather be doing. I left my day job a year ago to write full time, so this truly is my chosen career and source of employment.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with my readers? Thank you for hosting me today. I’m so grateful for this wonderful opportunity to connect with your readers. I hope those who enjoy historical fiction, sweet romances, or a good western, will consider reading  

The Christmas Bargain

The Christmas Token

The Christmas Calamity

 

Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund®

Now through Dec. 24, Shanna will donate 10 percent of the net proceeds from all her book sales to the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund. The JCCF is a non-profit organization that assists rodeo athletes who’ve sustained catastrophic injuries and are unable to work for an extended period.  

You’re Invited to PARTY!

You’re invited to join in the online Cowboys & Christmas Facebook Party Thursday, Nov. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (PST). Drop in anytime during those four hours to enter to win great prizes, chat with guest authors, and more! Here’s the link to the party: http://tinyurl.com/cowboychristmasparty The third book in the Hardman Holidays sweet Victorian romance series releases that day! The Christmas Calamity takes readers back to Hardman just in time for the holiday season. Preorders are available now for just $1.99 on Kindle. You can reserve your copy here: http://amzn.com/B00OGOO994 In addition, the first book in the Hardman Holidays series, The Christmas Bargain, will be available free that day, as well!

Enter to Win Prizes!

To enter the drawing for an Amazon gift card, autographed books, chocolates, original western artwork, and more fun goodies, fill out this form. http://tinyurl.com/cowboychristmasprizes

About Shanna Hatfield

A hopeless romantic with a bit of sarcasm thrown in for good measure, Shanna Hatfield is a bestselling author of sweet romantic fiction written with a healthy dose of humor. In addition to blogging and eating too much chocolate, she is completely smitten with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller. Shanna creates character-driven romances with realistic heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.” She is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, and Romance Writers of America. Find Shanna’s books at: Amazon | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords | Apple Shanna loves to hear from readers! Follow her online: ShannaHatfield | Facebook | Pinterest | Goodreads | You Tube | Twitter

A Crimson Frost by Marcia McClure

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Genre: High Fantasy-Medieval, Kingdom of Karvana
Heroine: Scarlet Princess, Monet
Hero: Crimson Knight, Broderick

I've been getting ready for Swoon Fest and talking about it has made me even more excited to re-read Marcia's books. I couldn't wait for October, so I slipped this one in a little early. I’ve read this one a few times and I think I like it more each time. I really enjoyed it this time around; maybe I was just in the right mood for the whole knight in shining armor thing. I enjoyed the storyline quite a bit, the kingdom of Karvana is at war and in order to protect their future the princess must go into hiding. Who better to protect her than the kingdom’s greatest warrior, the Crimson Knight.

The book starts at a tournament of knights, which made me think of the movie A Knights Tale. I liked the time spent at the castle and tournament, but I especially loved the time Broderick and Monet spent in hiding. It was fun to see them living “normal” lives and build a strong friendship. (view spoiler)[The king asks Broderick to not consummate their marriage until they know what will happen with the kingdom. I don’t think an annulment was ever really an option, so I’m not sure why they have to wait. Although, it did add for some nice tension I suppose. (hide spoiler)]

I was sucked into the medieval world McClure created. The story moved along nicely and had a fun mix of romance and adventure. The only thing I would tweak is the title. I like A Crimson Frost, but I think The Champions Prize would be better. Overall, a fun and entertaining read. If you enjoy medieval stories be sure to pick this one up.

Content:
Romance: Clean, just kissing any intimacy is behind closed doors.
Violence: Mild fighting

View all my reviews

The Scholar by May Nicole Abbey

A leap through time. A choice to make. A destiny to change. Dismissed by her professors, ridiculed by her classmates, Serena Metcalfe is determined to prove the existence of the Samu Aqaru, the powerful stone of the ancient pharaohs – even if it means travelling through time. But her study of Egyptology did not prepare her for the dangers and passions of the real Egypt of 2361 BC. Crocodile attacks, kidnapping, betrayal, murder…and a pharaoh who believes she is a goddess and wants her as his queen. But Serena isn’t about to give herself to a king – not when finding the precious Stone could mean saving the man she loves. Irresistible playboy Shepseskaf, fated for an early death, and his loyal yet ruthless cousin Pepisenkaura were once the closest of friends, but the right to the throne of Egypt and their rivalry for Serena threaten to transform them into bitter and eternal enemies. Only Serena knows the tragic destiny that awaits, and only Serena can rewrite history…by following her heart.

I really enjoyed the Egyptian setting in this novel. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that takes place in this time period before and I really liked it. Serena was a pretty likable heroine; she really goes through a lot, but always remains positive. I like that she is loyal and tries to do the right thing. It does take her awhile to decide what to do about her future and to see her own worth. I liked how by the end you can see how one person really can make a difference. I liked our hero, he really grew on my throughout the story and he was very protective of Serena. I don’t know much about the ancient Egyptian culture, but I don’t imagine the women were treated very well. So, it was nice to see the hero treat Serena with respect. There is a bit of a love-triangle, which was handled well. There is quite a bit of action and once you start reading it’s hard to put down. I thought this was quite different than the first book in the series, maybe because of the setting? I enjoyed it though and it makes me want to read more books that take place in Egypt, fun setting. Overall, it was a fun read. Content: Clean, PG.

An Unlikely Alliance by Rachel Van Dyken

Synopsis:

Spoiled New York rogue Royce Mc Arthur lives a charmed life. He sees no reason to settle down, until his mother issues her decree that he must grow up, find a wife and produce some grandchildren…preferably before she dies of old age. But his choices are quite limited considering the only women of his acquaintance are ones of ill repute. Meeting the beautiful Evelyn DeJarlias at a ball gives him hope he may have found the one. Her southern blue collar outspokenness and lack of refinement draws him like a moth to a flame. Unfortunately, she does not find him nearly as endearing -- consistently refusing his lavish gifts and his attentions, she poses a challenge he simply cannot ignore.

Review:

This was a cute regency-ish novella. It actually takes place in New York, I wasn’t quite sure of the exact time frame, some of the conversations or statements seemed too modern at times. Royce is your typical rake, when he meets Evelyn he regrets his past and wants to make a change. Since the story is so short things moved along quickly (almost too quickly at times) it was a bit hard to believe he had truly changed. He admits that he gets bored with women after a month, and I wonder will he get bored with Evelyn after their whirlwind courtship. Evelyn was likable; she at least tries to resist his charms and makes him work for her affection. The two team up to figure out what is going on between their parents (her father and his mother) and I suppose a friendship grows from their time together. Overall, it was an enjoyable short story.

Content: Clean. Talk of mistresses, no detailed love scenes



Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T Bergren

Release Date: June 1, 2012

GoodReads Synopsis: When Cora Kensington learns she is the illegitimate daughter of a copper king, her life changes forever. Even as she explores Europe with her new family, she discovers that the most valuable journey is within. The first book in the Grand Tour series takes you from the farms of Montana through England and France on an adventure of forgiveness, spiritual awakening, and self-discovery.

Review: I’ve been looking forward to this for quite some time and was really excited to see it available on NetGalley. I just have to say, I love the cover. It’s just so pretty and inviting.

Anyway, I thought this was enjoyable. I admit, I think the last 30% was probably the best part of the whole story. The story almost has a Cinderella feel to it. Cora’s life is turned upside down early in the story. She goes from living a poor life with her parents, to that of an heiress with an unwelcoming family she never knew. The book focuses on her adjustments and also a focus on their travels through England and France. There is of course a love-triangle. It’s pretty subtle for now, but I’m sure it will play a much larger part in future books. I already know who I’m rooting for, although both are charming. I’m not a super big fan of love-triangles and I hope Cora doesn’t become wishy-washy. It’s annoying when they expect two guys to pursue them and not realize that by spending so much time with one suitor it might just turn the other away. I would have liked a little more between Cora and one of the guys, but I also appreciate a slow buildup which allows a strong foundation for something more. Again, I think the last part of the book was the best and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.

This would probably fall into the Christian Historical Fiction genre. The history part is written well and woven into the story nicely. The same goes for the Christian elements, although it’s still a little much for my personal taste. Not over the top though.

Content: Clean.

Reading Order:
Glamorous Illusions
Grave Consequences
Glittering Promises

Legend of Shannonderry by Carol Warburton

GoodReads Synopsis: Gwyneth Beddows, a young woman of nineteenth-century England, has often felt lonely and unloved by her father, who believes the rumors that his pretty daughter might not actually be his child. The one place the young woman can find consolation is in the saddle of her spirited stallion. The magnificent horse shows promise as a racehorse and has drawn the attention of Irish horse master Cormac D'Arcy, who is visiting England on business. The handsome young man also brings a lifechanging message from Gwyneth's grandmother—a frail yet feisty Irish woman Gwyneth has never met. Events orchestrated by her father force Gwyneth to flee England, and with the help of D'Arcy, she arrives at Shannonderry, her maternal family's ancestral home, where Gwyneth learns of a legend that will have a profound impact on her life and the lives of those around her. Touched by the promise of destiny, Gwyneth seeks to save the family estate from certain ruin. But with fierce rivals on the scene and her embittered father in the periphery, Gwyneth faces grave danger that may place her far beyond the reach of D'Arcy's rescuing hand—and she must call on the strength of her heart if the historic legend of Shannonderry will ever be fulfilled.

Kathy’s Review: I really enjoyed this one. It was a fun escape. I liked Gwyneth, she had a lot of spunk. Cormac was also a great leading man, he supported Gwyneth, but was also a great protector. Their relationship was fun to watch evolve. The setting is fun, it makes me want to travel to Ireland. There is a bit of a mystery and some adventure. The ending was great. Overall, a fun story, great setting and a romantic love story.

Bookworm Rating: 4

Genre: Historical Fiction
Publication Date: September 2010
One Word Review: Enjoyable
Author Website: www.carolwarburton.com

GoodReads Synopsis: When a shocking accident forces Tory to demonstrate her despised skill, the secret she’s fought so hard to hide is revealed for all to see. She is immediately exiled to Lackland Abbey, a reform school for young men and women in her position. There she will learn to suppress her deplorable talents and maybe, if she’s one of the lucky ones, be able to return to society. But Tory’s life is about to change forever. All that she’s ever known or considered important will be challenged. What lies ahead is only the beginning of a strange and wonderful journey into a world where destiny and magic come together, where true love and friendship find her, and where courage and strength of character are the only things that determine a young girl’s worth.

Kathy’s Review: This started out so good. I loved the beginning, poor Tory is shunned by her family when it is discovered she has magical abilities. As a last resort to cure her they send her away to a boarding school devoted to riding students of their magic. Tory is all for getting rid of her magic and as quickly as possible. Once there she meets others like herself and begins to see magic in a different light. She even discovers a secret group of students who actively use magic and actually like it. Unfortunately, the story loses its steam and Tory loses her voice once the whole time-travel aspect is introduced. The setting was already perfect, they already have a war coming for them, so there was really no need to add the time-travel element to the story. Personally, I think Putney should have written a trilogy that takes place in 1803, and then write a spin-off series with their descendants that takes place in 1940. That would have been better, in my opinion.

The 1803 characters didn’t act or talk like they were from 1803, the dialog and attitudes did not match with that time period. Their situation was too easily accepted from both the 1803 cast and the 1940 cast. Also, all the problems they faced were all easily overcome, except for maybe the slight headache and need for a nap. I also took a little offense when one character compared what they were doing to real soldiers. Certainly they were tired and drained from there weather manipulations and there was a certain amount of stress. But, nothing they did remotely compares to what real soldiers go through. Lastly, I thought the names “Irregulars” and “Weather Brigade” were too cheesy.

The majority of the book takes place in 1940, so I would not consider this a Regency story at all. I do think a younger audience would probably enjoy the story, especially going into it knowing it takes place during WWII and not Regency times.

Bookworm Rating: 2
Genre: YA Fantasy
Publication Date: March 2011
One Word Review: Disappointing
Author Website: www.mjputney.com

Reading Order:
Book One: Dark Mirror
Bonus Book: Fallen From Grace
Book Two: Dark Passage
Book Three: Dark Destiney

The Pharaoh's Daughter by N C Allen

GoodReads Synopsis: After her gripping escapade in India, former Pinkerton spy Isabelle Webb launches a new adventure as she pursues a steamship en route to Egypt carrying two young stowaways: her teenaged ward Sally Rhodes, and an unlucky girl named Alice Bilbey. Arrive in Suez, Isabelle and her companions recover the girls and unexpectedly encounter Isabelle’s own guardian from her youth, Genevieve Montgomery. Isabelle and her friends decide to join up with Genevieve upon discovering that she is funding an expedition to a burial site near Luxor with an entourage of Egyptology experts.

Unaware that Thaddeus Sparks, is also in Egypt as part of a jewel-hunting cadre, Isabelle’s group joins the expedition under ominous signs: A prophetic warning from a stranger, threats along the Nile River, and birthmarks that burn when the rare Jewel of Zeus is nearby. At the excavation site—a cave rumored to be the tomb of a pharaoh’s disgraced daughter—tension builds when several newcomers arrive. And as circumstances shift with the sands, Isabelle finds that some of the royal treasure in the ruthless Pharaoh’s desert was buried for lethal reasons.

Kathy’s Review: This story picks up right where we left of in book one; well I guess it’s a little later. It picks up when Isabelle reaches Egypt in search of the girls. Once reunited they join up on an expedition with Isabelle’s former guardian Genevieve. I enjoyed this installment, it reminded me a bit of the move The Mummy. I love the setting and imagining digging through old pyramids. Isabelle was her usual adventurous self. I really like her character and how she is independent and yet also really loyal to those around her. I did wish we had a little more James time; he seems to be a little out of the picture this time around. The book ends with quite the cliff hanger and I can’t wait to see what happens next! Hopefully we won’t have to wait too long for the third book to come out. This is a fun series, one I would recommend to anyone who enjoys History and Romance with a lot of Adventure!

Bookworm Rating: 4

Genre: Historical Fiction
Publication Date: January 2011
One Word Review: Fun
Author Website: www.ncallen.blogspot.com

Reading Order:
Book One: Legend of the Jewel
Book Two: Pharaoh’s Daughter
Book Three:

Torrent by Lisa T Bergren

GoodReads Synopsis: Gabi and Lia Betarrini have learned to control their time travel, and they return from medieval Italy to save their father from his tragic death in modern times. But love calls across the centuries, and the girls are determined to return forever—even though they know the Black Plague is advancing across Europe, claiming the lives of one-third of the population.

Kathy’s Review: Have I mentioned how much I love this series? It is so good. I can’t remember the last time I read a series where each book was equally awesome. I love all the characters in this book. Gabi is a great leading lady and you can see why everyone around her loves her as well. Marcello is dreamy and you can’t help but love him. Luca and Lia are also amazing and I hope that we get another trilogy with their story. There is once again a lot of adventure in this story, Bergren weaves the historical elements in so nicely that you hardly realize your learning something as you’re reading. While the story takes place in 1344 Italy, you don’t really feel like you’re reading a historical novel. Bergren really brings everything to life. The plot is great and executed well, you have to keep reading to find out what is going to happen and how Gabi is every going to get out of the trouble she finds herself in. There is even a bit of a love triangle in this one, which added a lot to the story.

The series is awesome and keeps you reading; you love the characters and setting and any series that is this good deserves five stars. My only complaint is that I wanted a tiny bit more at the end, and epilog or something. I wanted to know what happened with certain characters. I also wanted to see more of Lia and Luca in the story, they both were awesome in book two and I missed seeing them in this book. I really do hope that Bergren writes a series about them.

If you haven’t read these books…DO IT. It’s such a fun series that anyone would enjoy.

Bookworm Rating: 5

Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance
Publication Date: September 2011
One Word Review: Excellent
Author Website: www.lisatawnbergren.com

Reading Order:
Book One: Waterfall
Book Two: Cascade
Book Three: Torrent

The Mercenary's Marriage by Rachel Rossano

GoodReads Synopsis: Trained as a mercenary soldier, Darius Laris was a man of decisive action. He was also a man of compassion. Seeing a young slave woman about to become the spoils of war, he claimed her for his own. Marrying her before God and king, he made her a free and respectable soldier's wife. Brice Ashlyn was born a slave. Abused and beaten, she learned quickly to avoid being noticed and to stay away from men. When her master's walls fell to enemy forces, she ran, but not fast enough. In Darius' offer she found deliverance, but experience had taught her to fear power such as his. Could she trust in his protection, or had she traded one form of slavery for another?

Kathy’s Review: This was an okay read. I enjoyed the story and it kept me reading and wanting to know what was going to happen next. It lost a little of its steam towards the end and things wrapped up a little too quickly. Brice’s attitude towards Darius changed rather quickly, I think the book needed to be 200 pages longer to really develop the story and characters. Brice and Darius had barely spoken to each other and we’re to believe they fell in love? Like maybe, but certainly not love. I just didn’t feel a lot of chemistry between the two to justify her sudden change in attitude towards the end. There were also a lot of loose ends that needed tying up. But, it is only 100 pages and is a fun read if you’re looking for a quick escape.

Bookworm Rating: 3

Genre: Fantasy/Historical Fiction
Publication Date: May 2006
One Word Review: Good

Similar Reads:
Loyalty’s Web by Joyce DiPastena

The Commander's Desire by Jennette Green

Cascade by Lisa T Bergren

GoodReads Synopsis: Gabi knows she’s left her heart in the fourteenth century and she persuades Lia to help her to return, even though they know doing so will risk their very lives. When they arrive, weeks have passed and all of Siena longs to celebrate the heroines who turned the tide in the battle against Florence—while the Florentines will go to great lengths to see them dead. But Marcello patiently awaits, and Gabi must decide if she’s willing to leave her family behind for good in order to give her heart to him forever.

Kathy’s Review: Wow. I can’t remember the last time a sequel was as good as its predecessor. I loved this book! Once I got going I couldn’t put it down. Once again it ends with an amazing cliff hanger that has been antsy to read the next book!

This book starts off right were the last one ended. I was a little surprised by that, and for some odd reason I did have a little bit of a hard time getting into this one. However, once I had the chance to really sit down and read I was totally hooked. I HAD to know what was going to happen next. Gabi is a great heroine. She is easy to relate to and very easy to like. I like that her toughness is believable, I like her courage and loyalty. When everything seems overwhelming and futile, she is still brave and speaks her mind. She uses her wits and I just loved being along for the ride. Her sister Lia is equally cool. I liked that they were together a lot during this book. Marcello and Luca were awesome as usual. Both are very dreamy, and all-male. Their individual relationships were fun to read. Lia and Luca have a fun banter between them. I also liked our bad guy Lord Greco. He’s very mysterious and I’m very curious to see what happens with him in the next book. I hope there is more of him.

While I totally loved this book, I think I liked Waterfall a touch more. It’s still an awesome book though and definitely holds its own. I have no idea what’s coming in the last book, but I can’t wait to find out!

Bookworm Rating: 4.5

Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Publication Date: June 2011
One Word Review: Awesome
Author Website: www.lisatawnbergren.com

Reading Order:
Book One: Waterfall
Book Two: Cascade
Book Three: Torrent

By Love or By Sea by Rachel Rager

Genre: Historical Fiction-Romance

Publication Date: April 2009

One Word Review: Good

Author Website: www.rachelrager.com

GoodReads Synopsis: Alice Lind Frank never forgot the boy she loved when she was just six years old, even after he was lost at sea. Now a young woman, Alice has found happiness in living and working with her grandparents, and in the affections of Clarence Hielott, the wealthy shipyard owner who intends to make Alice his bride. When a ragged sailor appears in town, Alice is reminded of the young boy who once held her heart. Upon learning that the sailor is in fact her childhood love, Caleb, she finds herself yearning to trust him again. But Clarence refuses to let this ghost from the past destroy his plans for the future. He exposes the secrets of Caleb's past and Alice realizes that the boy she once knew is now a man with a dark history.

Kathy’s Review: I’ve been wanting to read this one for a long time. While I enjoyed the story, it didn’t really sweep me off my feet. I liked our heroine Alice. She had a nice mix of spunk and sweetness. I liked the side story between her and old Betsy Winters. Caleb was a good leading man, although I would have liked a little more tension with the love triangle. Speaking of Alice's other love intrest Clarence, his character was a little disappointing. I never got the feeling that he was really a bad guy. We’re told certain things, but I just didn’t feel it. I was a little confused with Caleb’s relationship to royalty. It seemed like a storyline that was thrown in for convenience sake and wasn’t really explained. It just seems like if he was really related to royalty his family would have held a different position.

There were a couple problems I had with the book. First, I had no clue where the story was taking place. It wasn’t until about 125 pages that China and England were mentioned and I finally figured out it was suppose to take place somewhere in reality. I also had no clue when the story was suppose to be, I could tell by a few things that it was suppose to be a long time ago, but I would have liked a little time frame to work with.

Bookworm Rating: 3.5, G

Waterfall by Lisa Tawn Bergen

Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Publication Date: February 2011
One Word Review: Great
Author Website: www.lisatawnbergen.com

GoodReads Synopsis: In Waterfall, American teenager Gabi Betarrini accidently finds herself in sixteenth-century Italy . . . Knights. Swords. Horses. Armor. And Italian hotties. Most American teens want an Italian vacation, but the Betarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives there with their archaeologist parents. Stuck on yet another hot, dusty dig, they are bored out of their minds... until they place their hands atop handprints in an ancient tomb and find themselves catapulted into the sixteenth-century—and in the middle of a fierce battle between knights bent on killing one another.

Kathy’s Review: Loved it!

I guess I need to write more than that. I read the book synopsis and thought this sounded like a fun adventure. There had been some great reviews and I thought I’d give it a try. So around 3 AM (I was up feeding my twins) I downloaded a sample to my Kindle. It was a bad idea to start the book at that time, I ended up wanting to stay up and read instead of getting some sleep. Sleep won out, but I soon started again once I was up for the day. I’ve spent most of the day reading, being sucked into the story until I just finished. I really wish I had the next book on hand!

I really liked our heroine Gabi. She was not only pretty, but smart, tough and just likable. The author did a great job explaining Gabi’s abilities with the sword and working it into the story. I also thought Gabi’s transition from our time to the fourteenth century to be realistic. And of course I’m a sucker for a good love story, which brings me to Marcello. *sigh* I am definitely on Team Marcello. I liked that their relationship wasn’t the whole story. There were a lot of other things going on and things between them also felt realistic. I’m a sucker for his best friend Luca as well.

This is the first in a long time, where I was actually happy this was going to be a trilogy. I love the characters and can’t wait to see what happens next.

Bookworm Rating: 5

Reading Order:
Book One: Waterfall
Book Two: Cascade (June 2011)
Book Three: Torrent (September 2011)