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Recommend this book:
 by Emily E.K. Murdoch is a captivating Regency romance about scandal, deception, and unexpected love. William Chance, Duke of Cothrom, longs for stability amid his family’s ongoing scandals. When Alice Fox-Edwards launches herself into his arms and demands marriage, his world is thrown into disarray. Alice,...){kind=link}
A Fighting Chance
The Chances Book 1
Emily E K Murdoch
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
A Fighting Chance (The Chances, Book 1) by Emily E.K. Murdoch is a captivating Regency romance about scandal, deception, and unexpected love. William Chance, Duke of Cothrom, longs for stability amid his family’s ongoing scandals. When Alice Fox-Edwards launches herself into his arms and demands marriage, his world is thrown into disarray. Alice, desperate to escape blackmail and secure her future, sees William as the perfect solution, but both of them are hiding secrets that could unravel everything. As tensions rise and passion ignites, their carefully laid plans give way to a love neither expected. Murdoch delivers a steamy and emotionally rich romance filled with intrigue, wit, and undeniable chemistry.
Author Emily E.K. Murdoch has a talent for character development and presentation, creating a vivid cast of scandalous folk whose riveting romances are packed with charm, passion, and, most importantly, secrets. This mystery element keeps the drama spicy from cover to cover. Murdoch delivers a beautifully crafted love story with delightful twists and saucy chemistry between different parties, especially in the central pair. I thought Alice was really fun to follow, and her dialogue was suitably period but also easy to relate to for fans of strong heroines. William, in his role as the reluctant duke, was thoroughly entertaining and well described for great cinematic impact, but there was also a genuine emotional through-line that built up as the story developed. By the end, I really cared about these characters and wanted life to work out for them. Overall, A Fighting Chance is a highly recommended must-read for historical romance lovers who enjoy a bit of intrigue with their passion.
A Fighting Chance (The Chances, Book 1) by Emily E.K. Murdoch is a captivating Regency romance about scandal, deception, and unexpected love. William Chance, Duke of Cothrom, longs for stability amid his family’s ongoing scandals. When Alice Fox-Edwards launches herself into his arms and demands marriage, his world is thrown into disarray. Alice, desperate to escape blackmail and secure her future, sees William as the perfect solution, but both of them are hiding secrets that could unravel everything. As tensions rise and passion ignites, their carefully laid plans give way to a love neither expected. Murdoch delivers a steamy and emotionally rich romance filled with intrigue, wit, and undeniable chemistry.
Author Emily E.K. Murdoch has a talent for character development and presentation, creating a vivid cast of scandalous folk whose riveting romances are packed with charm, passion, and, most importantly, secrets. This mystery element keeps the drama spicy from cover to cover. Murdoch delivers a beautifully crafted love story with delightful twists and saucy chemistry between different parties, especially in the central pair. I thought Alice was really fun to follow, and her dialogue was suitably period but also easy to relate to for fans of strong heroines. William, in his role as the reluctant duke, was thoroughly entertaining and well described for great cinematic impact, but there was also a genuine emotional through-line that built up as the story developed. By the end, I really cared about these characters and wanted life to work out for them. Overall, A Fighting Chance is a highly recommended must-read for historical romance lovers who enjoy a bit of intrigue with their passion.
Recommend this book:
The Perks of Loving a Viscount
The Strongs of Shadowcrest Book 2
Alexa Aston
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Ankita Shukla for Readers' Favorite
The Perks of Loving a Viscount by Alexa Aston is a historical romance set in the late eighteenth century. Seth Atwell is content with his life as a ship's captain until he discovers he is bound for a life of luxury and responsibility as a viscount. Unbeknownst to him, he is the new Viscount Hopewell. Though the news initially leaves him heartbroken, he resolves to embrace his duties, including managing his estate and upholding his new title. When Seth crosses paths with Lady Phillipa Strong, he is captivated not only by her beauty but also by her unique personality. Unlike any woman he has ever met, she intrigues him deeply. Though thoroughly smitten, he chooses to take things slowly, determined to treat her with respect. Meanwhile, Lady Phillipa—or Pippa, as she prefers—wants nothing to do with the constraints of the predictable life of a lady. The idea of losing her freedom in marriage seems preposterous to her. Yet Seth fascinates her enough to make her reconsider her choices.
The Perks of Loving a Viscount by Alexa Aston is a beautifully written romantic novel, capturing the mannerisms of the eighteenth century. The outward allure and financial freedom of the 'ton' life stand in ironic contrast to the suffocating restrictions it demands. The author skillfully portrays women's fears through Pippa's perspective. With Sophie—a more mature woman—Alexa Aston presents the most fortunate scenario a woman could hope for in that era. The male characters are refreshingly polite and open-minded. Though the plot lacks dramatic twists to keep you on the edge of your seat, the elegant storyline and tasteful intimate scenes create a warm, cozy, romantic read.
The Perks of Loving a Viscount by Alexa Aston is a historical romance set in the late eighteenth century. Seth Atwell is content with his life as a ship's captain until he discovers he is bound for a life of luxury and responsibility as a viscount. Unbeknownst to him, he is the new Viscount Hopewell. Though the news initially leaves him heartbroken, he resolves to embrace his duties, including managing his estate and upholding his new title. When Seth crosses paths with Lady Phillipa Strong, he is captivated not only by her beauty but also by her unique personality. Unlike any woman he has ever met, she intrigues him deeply. Though thoroughly smitten, he chooses to take things slowly, determined to treat her with respect. Meanwhile, Lady Phillipa—or Pippa, as she prefers—wants nothing to do with the constraints of the predictable life of a lady. The idea of losing her freedom in marriage seems preposterous to her. Yet Seth fascinates her enough to make her reconsider her choices.
The Perks of Loving a Viscount by Alexa Aston is a beautifully written romantic novel, capturing the mannerisms of the eighteenth century. The outward allure and financial freedom of the 'ton' life stand in ironic contrast to the suffocating restrictions it demands. The author skillfully portrays women's fears through Pippa's perspective. With Sophie—a more mature woman—Alexa Aston presents the most fortunate scenario a woman could hope for in that era. The male characters are refreshingly polite and open-minded. Though the plot lacks dramatic twists to keep you on the edge of your seat, the elegant storyline and tasteful intimate scenes create a warm, cozy, romantic read.
Recommend this book:
 by Kathleen Ayers is a delightfully steamy Regency romance filled with mistaken identities, abduction, and undeniable attraction. Malcolm Sinclair, a former soldier and mercenary, agrees to kidnap a young lady on behalf of a nobleman only to find himself entangled with the wrong woman. Miss Alyss Brooks...){kind=link}
Sinfully Yours
The Five Deadly Sins Book 4
Kathleen Ayers
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Sinfully Yours (The Five Deadly Sins, Book 4) by Kathleen Ayers is a delightfully steamy Regency romance filled with mistaken identities, abduction, and undeniable attraction. Malcolm Sinclair, a former soldier and mercenary, agrees to kidnap a young lady on behalf of a nobleman only to find himself entangled with the wrong woman. Miss Alyss Brooks, known for her sharp wit and deadly parasol skills, is anything but a damsel in distress. When a thunderstorm, a robbery, and unforeseen circumstances leave Alyss stranded with her kidnapper, sparks fly in unexpected ways. With passion, danger, and plenty of banter, Sinfully Yours is a seductive tale of love born from the most scandalous circumstances.
Author Kathleen Ayers has an energy to her writing style in every page of this exciting novel, and this makes for a sizzling, fast-paced historical romance with witty banter and undeniable chemistry. I loved the dialogue style, which feels atmospherically right for the period but has a great nod to modern sensibilities and the fiery, independent kind of spirit we want to see in heroines from the time. There’s a fantastic blend of humor, passion, and intrigue in this captivating story that fans of bold heroines and reluctant heroes will adore. Malcolm was a big favorite of mine right from the start. I found his whole physical presentation and description enjoyably comedic despite his attractiveness, and these charming details keep a smile on your face the whole time you’re reading. There’s also danger and genuine tension in the well-paced plot, with plenty of deeply-felt emotional moments later on once we’ve taken the characters into our hearts. Overall, Sinfully Yours is a thrilling and sensual Regency romance that I highly recommend.
Sinfully Yours (The Five Deadly Sins, Book 4) by Kathleen Ayers is a delightfully steamy Regency romance filled with mistaken identities, abduction, and undeniable attraction. Malcolm Sinclair, a former soldier and mercenary, agrees to kidnap a young lady on behalf of a nobleman only to find himself entangled with the wrong woman. Miss Alyss Brooks, known for her sharp wit and deadly parasol skills, is anything but a damsel in distress. When a thunderstorm, a robbery, and unforeseen circumstances leave Alyss stranded with her kidnapper, sparks fly in unexpected ways. With passion, danger, and plenty of banter, Sinfully Yours is a seductive tale of love born from the most scandalous circumstances.
Author Kathleen Ayers has an energy to her writing style in every page of this exciting novel, and this makes for a sizzling, fast-paced historical romance with witty banter and undeniable chemistry. I loved the dialogue style, which feels atmospherically right for the period but has a great nod to modern sensibilities and the fiery, independent kind of spirit we want to see in heroines from the time. There’s a fantastic blend of humor, passion, and intrigue in this captivating story that fans of bold heroines and reluctant heroes will adore. Malcolm was a big favorite of mine right from the start. I found his whole physical presentation and description enjoyably comedic despite his attractiveness, and these charming details keep a smile on your face the whole time you’re reading. There’s also danger and genuine tension in the well-paced plot, with plenty of deeply-felt emotional moments later on once we’ve taken the characters into our hearts. Overall, Sinfully Yours is a thrilling and sensual Regency romance that I highly recommend.
Recommend this book:
 by Kathryn Le Veque is packed with medieval romance and drama. Sinclair ‘Sin’ de Reyne, a legendary sword master and Blackchurch knight, has dedicated his life to the blade until he meets the fiery and mysterious Elisiana. Running from an arranged marriage, she seeks refuge among the guild’s warriors. But...){kind=link}
The Swordsman
The Blackchurch Guild
Kathryn Le Veque
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Swordsman (The Blackchurch Guild) by Kathryn Le Veque is packed with medieval romance and drama. Sinclair ‘Sin’ de Reyne, a legendary sword master and Blackchurch knight, has dedicated his life to the blade until he meets the fiery and mysterious Elisiana. Running from an arranged marriage, she seeks refuge among the guild’s warriors. But when her noble lineage is revealed, Sin faces an impossible choice: abandon his feelings or defy tradition and fight for love. With dangerous factions closing in, this passionate historical romance is a battle of the heart as much as the sword.
Author Kathryn Le Veque has a real talent for the style and flourish needed for period drama. This is a swoon-worthy medieval romance filled with action, honor, and forbidden love that I leaped into eagerly. I particularly enjoyed the characters, which stand out at the center of the drama, with both Sin and Elisiana competing to jump off the page and captivate you, albeit for very different reasons. There was something very ‘Zorro’ about Sin, but he’s much more emotionally well-developed than your typical swashbuckler, and this attention to detail in the narrative lets us get to know him on a deeper level. It made me root for him all the more as the dangers around him grew, but also in his developing bond with Elisiana, who is a bundle of energy with fantastic dialogue that shows her fears and vulnerabilities. This powerhouse duo at the core becomes the catalyst for passion, swordplay, and high-stakes drama that will certainly keep readers turning pages right through to the satisfying conclusion. Overall, The Swordsman is a must-read that I would not hesitate to recommend to historical romance lovers.
The Swordsman (The Blackchurch Guild) by Kathryn Le Veque is packed with medieval romance and drama. Sinclair ‘Sin’ de Reyne, a legendary sword master and Blackchurch knight, has dedicated his life to the blade until he meets the fiery and mysterious Elisiana. Running from an arranged marriage, she seeks refuge among the guild’s warriors. But when her noble lineage is revealed, Sin faces an impossible choice: abandon his feelings or defy tradition and fight for love. With dangerous factions closing in, this passionate historical romance is a battle of the heart as much as the sword.
Author Kathryn Le Veque has a real talent for the style and flourish needed for period drama. This is a swoon-worthy medieval romance filled with action, honor, and forbidden love that I leaped into eagerly. I particularly enjoyed the characters, which stand out at the center of the drama, with both Sin and Elisiana competing to jump off the page and captivate you, albeit for very different reasons. There was something very ‘Zorro’ about Sin, but he’s much more emotionally well-developed than your typical swashbuckler, and this attention to detail in the narrative lets us get to know him on a deeper level. It made me root for him all the more as the dangers around him grew, but also in his developing bond with Elisiana, who is a bundle of energy with fantastic dialogue that shows her fears and vulnerabilities. This powerhouse duo at the core becomes the catalyst for passion, swordplay, and high-stakes drama that will certainly keep readers turning pages right through to the satisfying conclusion. Overall, The Swordsman is a must-read that I would not hesitate to recommend to historical romance lovers.
Recommend this book:
 is a historical romance by Stella Riley. Set in Georgian England, it features an unconventional young woman named Anna who is the wealthy owner of a manufacturing business, and a handsome viscount named Daniel who recently inherited not only an estate and a title from his father but also a mysterious and utterl...){kind=link}
Masque of Deceptions
Shadows Book 2
Stella Riley
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Kimberlee J Benart for Readers' Favorite
Masque of Deceptions (Shadows Book 2) is a historical romance by Stella Riley. Set in Georgian England, it features an unconventional young woman named Anna who is the wealthy owner of a manufacturing business, and a handsome viscount named Daniel who recently inherited not only an estate and a title from his father but also a mysterious and utterly crushing debt. The last thing Anna wants is to buy a titled husband, and the last thing Daniel wants is to sell himself into a loveless marriage, but when Anna proposes for reasons of her own, he accepts for obvious reasons. As Anna fends off a strangely persistent buyer for her business and Daniel investigates the shocking origins of the debt, will their relationship blossom into something more?
In Masque of Deceptions, Stella Riley gives us an engaging story that weaves romance and mystery into a well-paced plot with surprising twists and turns. Anna and Daniel are wonderful characters, good-natured, dependable, and loyal at heart though the circumstances of their initial meeting cause each to view the other with distrust. I appreciated the portrayal of Anna as a woman with a social conscience. She wants to have a hand in running the factory she inherited from her father at a time when most fathers wouldn’t have prepared a daughter for such a task. Although this is the second book in a series, it easily stands alone, and it has inspired me to read the first book to learn more about Daniel. Highly recommended.
Masque of Deceptions (Shadows Book 2) is a historical romance by Stella Riley. Set in Georgian England, it features an unconventional young woman named Anna who is the wealthy owner of a manufacturing business, and a handsome viscount named Daniel who recently inherited not only an estate and a title from his father but also a mysterious and utterly crushing debt. The last thing Anna wants is to buy a titled husband, and the last thing Daniel wants is to sell himself into a loveless marriage, but when Anna proposes for reasons of her own, he accepts for obvious reasons. As Anna fends off a strangely persistent buyer for her business and Daniel investigates the shocking origins of the debt, will their relationship blossom into something more?
In Masque of Deceptions, Stella Riley gives us an engaging story that weaves romance and mystery into a well-paced plot with surprising twists and turns. Anna and Daniel are wonderful characters, good-natured, dependable, and loyal at heart though the circumstances of their initial meeting cause each to view the other with distrust. I appreciated the portrayal of Anna as a woman with a social conscience. She wants to have a hand in running the factory she inherited from her father at a time when most fathers wouldn’t have prepared a daughter for such a task. Although this is the second book in a series, it easily stands alone, and it has inspired me to read the first book to learn more about Daniel. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Pericles and Aspasia
A Story of Ancient Greece
Yvonne Korshak
2024 Finalist
500 Pages
Check current price
Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Pericles and Aspasia by Yvonne Korshak revolves around the love story of the two titular characters in ancient Greece. In her late teens, Aspasia escapes from a pirate ship and swims to shore. Her philosopher father is dead, and the ship's captain was sexually abusing her, leading to her becoming a courtesan in Athens in order to survive. At a gathering, she meets Pericles, the famous Athenian leader. Pericles is immediately attracted to Aspasia as she proves herself to be deeply intelligent and well-read. They become lovers and their relationship is steadfast during multiple campaigns and Pericles's role as a general and statesman. Pericles divorces his wife to be with Aspasia and continues to grow Athens into a cultural and architectural powerhouse. Despite their critics, the pair is dedicated to one another, and together they face the challenges of Aspasia's background and Pericles' public image.
I did not know anything about this quite famous historical couple, Pericles and Aspasia, when I picked up Yvonne Korshak's sweeping saga. My interest stemmed from an upcoming trip to the Greek Isles that culminates in Athens. I was keen to read a novel that would enable me to form a connection to what I will see with actual people, beyond mere massive ruins surrounded by gawking but otherwise unknowing tourists. Yes, this is fiction, but only in the sense that Korshak, quite brilliantly, turns Pericles and Aspasia into lifelike people and formulates conversations and landscapes that fill in the blanks. The milestones of the age, which are Herculean in scope, are provided with spectacular context. I loved the Name Day celebration of Pericles's son, and having recently been in Turkey at the site of ancient Troy, scenes like Pericles's orchestration of a peace treaty with Sparta tickled me a bit. Different stories with recognizable parties. The political, cultural, historical, and personal aspects are really wonderful and I am certain those readers who love historical fiction will feel the same. Very highly recommended.
Pericles and Aspasia by Yvonne Korshak revolves around the love story of the two titular characters in ancient Greece. In her late teens, Aspasia escapes from a pirate ship and swims to shore. Her philosopher father is dead, and the ship's captain was sexually abusing her, leading to her becoming a courtesan in Athens in order to survive. At a gathering, she meets Pericles, the famous Athenian leader. Pericles is immediately attracted to Aspasia as she proves herself to be deeply intelligent and well-read. They become lovers and their relationship is steadfast during multiple campaigns and Pericles's role as a general and statesman. Pericles divorces his wife to be with Aspasia and continues to grow Athens into a cultural and architectural powerhouse. Despite their critics, the pair is dedicated to one another, and together they face the challenges of Aspasia's background and Pericles' public image.
I did not know anything about this quite famous historical couple, Pericles and Aspasia, when I picked up Yvonne Korshak's sweeping saga. My interest stemmed from an upcoming trip to the Greek Isles that culminates in Athens. I was keen to read a novel that would enable me to form a connection to what I will see with actual people, beyond mere massive ruins surrounded by gawking but otherwise unknowing tourists. Yes, this is fiction, but only in the sense that Korshak, quite brilliantly, turns Pericles and Aspasia into lifelike people and formulates conversations and landscapes that fill in the blanks. The milestones of the age, which are Herculean in scope, are provided with spectacular context. I loved the Name Day celebration of Pericles's son, and having recently been in Turkey at the site of ancient Troy, scenes like Pericles's orchestration of a peace treaty with Sparta tickled me a bit. Different stories with recognizable parties. The political, cultural, historical, and personal aspects are really wonderful and I am certain those readers who love historical fiction will feel the same. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Castilian Pomegranate
The Castilian Saga Book 2
Anna Belfrage
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Castilian Pomegranate is a work of historical fiction penned by author Anna Belfrage. The work forms the second book of The Castilian Saga and is written for the mature adult reading audience owing to the presence of sexual situations and graphic violence appropriate to the brutality of the time. In the thirteen century, we find ourselves back with Robert FitzStephan and his wife, Noor, where they have been tasked with an impossible, heart-wrenching chore. The couple has been asked to abandon their foster son Lionel while overseas and to recover a precious jewel – the titular Castilian Pomegranate – but both of these tasks have their own sets of danger and resistance.
Author Anna Belfrage packs a lot into this immersive and engaging historical novel. Yet, it also seemed to fly by in a flurry of excitement because it was so easy to read. The historical details of the work were finely tuned and cinematically descriptive, giving a wonderful sensory feel to the experiences of our central characters. I enjoyed Noor’s energy and fierce nature very much in a new land with new encounters, but I also felt for her deeply when she was put to the test. I also enjoyed the overtones of the period itself, nuanced as it was with the political climate, cultural tensions, and power struggles of the day. This makes for a compelling and believable read with real people who you care for deeply by the novel’s conclusion. Overall, I would highly recommend The Castilian Pomegranate for fans of exciting historical adventure, romance, and drama who are keen to encounter a talented writer and a standout series.
The Castilian Pomegranate is a work of historical fiction penned by author Anna Belfrage. The work forms the second book of The Castilian Saga and is written for the mature adult reading audience owing to the presence of sexual situations and graphic violence appropriate to the brutality of the time. In the thirteen century, we find ourselves back with Robert FitzStephan and his wife, Noor, where they have been tasked with an impossible, heart-wrenching chore. The couple has been asked to abandon their foster son Lionel while overseas and to recover a precious jewel – the titular Castilian Pomegranate – but both of these tasks have their own sets of danger and resistance.
Author Anna Belfrage packs a lot into this immersive and engaging historical novel. Yet, it also seemed to fly by in a flurry of excitement because it was so easy to read. The historical details of the work were finely tuned and cinematically descriptive, giving a wonderful sensory feel to the experiences of our central characters. I enjoyed Noor’s energy and fierce nature very much in a new land with new encounters, but I also felt for her deeply when she was put to the test. I also enjoyed the overtones of the period itself, nuanced as it was with the political climate, cultural tensions, and power struggles of the day. This makes for a compelling and believable read with real people who you care for deeply by the novel’s conclusion. Overall, I would highly recommend The Castilian Pomegranate for fans of exciting historical adventure, romance, and drama who are keen to encounter a talented writer and a standout series.
Recommend this book:
The Earl’s Promised Bride
One Night in Blackhaven, Book 2
Mary Lancaster
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Maalin Ogaja for Readers' Favorite
In The Earl’s Promised Bride, Mary Lancaster presents an enchanting historical romance set in Regency England. Lucy Vale, attending her first ball, is immediately drawn to a stranger whose vibrant energy seems to match her own. Despite the impropriety, she embarks on an adventure with him, nearly avoiding trouble with one of her brothers. The stranger whom she soon learns is named Tyler, lingers in her thoughts long after their encounter. Tyler stirs unexpected feelings in Lucy, making her dread her imminent meeting with her betrothed, Lord Eddleston, a man she has never met. With Tyler sharing her feelings, Lucy faces uncertainty—will her brothers permit her to marry a man of Tyler’s standing, or is there more to the story that could allow them to be together?
In The Earl’s Promised Bride, Mary Lancaster masterfully balances romance and intrigue with exciting, thrilling moments. I loved the historical context with a strict code of conduct and emphasis on reputation that created obstacles for the characters. The dynamics of arranged marriages and the pursuit of advantageous alliances added layers to the plotline. I appreciated Lancaster's thoughtful exploration of women’s lives in this period; for instance, Lucy encouraging her friend Hester to make a choice that is right for her highlights a theme of personal growth and empowerment. Lucy and Tyler’s love story was so heartwarming, building gradually and realistically, with plot twists that kept the story engaging to the very end. I highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a well-crafted historical romance with compelling characters and an engaging storyline.
In The Earl’s Promised Bride, Mary Lancaster presents an enchanting historical romance set in Regency England. Lucy Vale, attending her first ball, is immediately drawn to a stranger whose vibrant energy seems to match her own. Despite the impropriety, she embarks on an adventure with him, nearly avoiding trouble with one of her brothers. The stranger whom she soon learns is named Tyler, lingers in her thoughts long after their encounter. Tyler stirs unexpected feelings in Lucy, making her dread her imminent meeting with her betrothed, Lord Eddleston, a man she has never met. With Tyler sharing her feelings, Lucy faces uncertainty—will her brothers permit her to marry a man of Tyler’s standing, or is there more to the story that could allow them to be together?
In The Earl’s Promised Bride, Mary Lancaster masterfully balances romance and intrigue with exciting, thrilling moments. I loved the historical context with a strict code of conduct and emphasis on reputation that created obstacles for the characters. The dynamics of arranged marriages and the pursuit of advantageous alliances added layers to the plotline. I appreciated Lancaster's thoughtful exploration of women’s lives in this period; for instance, Lucy encouraging her friend Hester to make a choice that is right for her highlights a theme of personal growth and empowerment. Lucy and Tyler’s love story was so heartwarming, building gradually and realistically, with plot twists that kept the story engaging to the very end. I highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a well-crafted historical romance with compelling characters and an engaging storyline.
Recommend this book:
A Regrettable Charade
Lords & Ladies of Mayfair Book 6
Laura Beers
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
A Regrettable Charade is a work of fiction penned by author Laura Beers in the historical romance, interpersonal drama, and suspense subgenres, and is the sixth novel in the Lords & Ladies of Mayfair book series. The work is best suited to the general adult reading audience. The saga continues as we are introduced to Lady Octavia Westlake, who, driven by a promise to her ailing mother, faces the glittering but demanding social season with trepidation. Amidst persistent advances from a rake, she grapples with societal expectations. The Marquess of Kendal, Harred Woodville, plagued by a fear of failure, encounters Octavia unexpectedly, sparking an intriguing connection. Their friendship deepens as they unite to ease Octavia's mother's suffering, providing solace in each other's company. Yet, looming danger challenges their choices and commitment to love and happiness.
Author Laura Beers has crafted a delightful journey into Regency romance with a compelling narrative, adeptly blending societal expectations, the fear of failure, and the blossoming of an unexpected connection. The characters of Octavia and Harred are nuanced and endearing. I really enjoyed the careful crafting of their relationship dynamic with attitudes that are suitable for the time but also reflect emotional sensibilities and intrinsically human emotions that we all recognize, making their journey relatable and engaging. The novel masterfully captures the spirit of the Regency era, too, in its excellent employment of atmospheric description, attention to detail, and rakish wit while delivering a clean and wholesome romance that readers of all sensibilities can enjoy. Beers weaves a tale that is both heartwarming and suspenseful to the very end in a captivating addition to the Lords & Ladies of Mayfair series. Overall, I would certainly recommend A Regrettable Charade to fans of the series so far.
A Regrettable Charade is a work of fiction penned by author Laura Beers in the historical romance, interpersonal drama, and suspense subgenres, and is the sixth novel in the Lords & Ladies of Mayfair book series. The work is best suited to the general adult reading audience. The saga continues as we are introduced to Lady Octavia Westlake, who, driven by a promise to her ailing mother, faces the glittering but demanding social season with trepidation. Amidst persistent advances from a rake, she grapples with societal expectations. The Marquess of Kendal, Harred Woodville, plagued by a fear of failure, encounters Octavia unexpectedly, sparking an intriguing connection. Their friendship deepens as they unite to ease Octavia's mother's suffering, providing solace in each other's company. Yet, looming danger challenges their choices and commitment to love and happiness.
Author Laura Beers has crafted a delightful journey into Regency romance with a compelling narrative, adeptly blending societal expectations, the fear of failure, and the blossoming of an unexpected connection. The characters of Octavia and Harred are nuanced and endearing. I really enjoyed the careful crafting of their relationship dynamic with attitudes that are suitable for the time but also reflect emotional sensibilities and intrinsically human emotions that we all recognize, making their journey relatable and engaging. The novel masterfully captures the spirit of the Regency era, too, in its excellent employment of atmospheric description, attention to detail, and rakish wit while delivering a clean and wholesome romance that readers of all sensibilities can enjoy. Beers weaves a tale that is both heartwarming and suspenseful to the very end in a captivating addition to the Lords & Ladies of Mayfair series. Overall, I would certainly recommend A Regrettable Charade to fans of the series so far.
Recommend this book:
The Black Dragon
The Executioner Knights Book 14
Kathryn Le Veque
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Romance - Historical
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
The Black Dragon is the fourteenth book in The Executioner Knights series by Kathryn Le Veque, but it reads as a standalone story. Amid medieval England's tournaments, Addax, a skilled and wealthy knight, is torn between loyalty and duty. He came to England as a young man with a caravan and worked through the ranks, from a page to a knight to becoming a member of the Executioner Knights serving William Marshal. Addax has built a life for himself. Everything changes when he's drawn into the troubled marriage of his friend Maximillian de Grey. When Maximillian marries Emmeline de Witt, following his father's wishes, Addax leaves jousting to help secure his friend's new legacy. But as he witnesses Maximillian's cruel treatment of his wife, Addax is forced to confront his desires and make a choice that will forever alter the course of his life.
This novel is the well-crafted suspenseful story of a man caught up in a strong moral dilemma, wrestling with internal conflicts and struggling to balance his sense of morality with duty and loyalty. Readers are kept on edge to see what happens next. Kathryn Le Veque brings to life the world of medieval tournaments, crafting a tale of romance and adventure that will captivate readers. She enthralls with her colorful, sophisticated cast of characters. The dynamics between the key characters, especially Addax and Maximilian, are skillfully drawn. The contrast between the two characters, their sense of honor and how they treat women, stands out in this captivating narrative. The writing is exceptional and filled with intriguing details. The Black Dragon is an immersive tale that entertains and entices readers with solid historical elements and relatable characters.
The Black Dragon is the fourteenth book in The Executioner Knights series by Kathryn Le Veque, but it reads as a standalone story. Amid medieval England's tournaments, Addax, a skilled and wealthy knight, is torn between loyalty and duty. He came to England as a young man with a caravan and worked through the ranks, from a page to a knight to becoming a member of the Executioner Knights serving William Marshal. Addax has built a life for himself. Everything changes when he's drawn into the troubled marriage of his friend Maximillian de Grey. When Maximillian marries Emmeline de Witt, following his father's wishes, Addax leaves jousting to help secure his friend's new legacy. But as he witnesses Maximillian's cruel treatment of his wife, Addax is forced to confront his desires and make a choice that will forever alter the course of his life.
This novel is the well-crafted suspenseful story of a man caught up in a strong moral dilemma, wrestling with internal conflicts and struggling to balance his sense of morality with duty and loyalty. Readers are kept on edge to see what happens next. Kathryn Le Veque brings to life the world of medieval tournaments, crafting a tale of romance and adventure that will captivate readers. She enthralls with her colorful, sophisticated cast of characters. The dynamics between the key characters, especially Addax and Maximilian, are skillfully drawn. The contrast between the two characters, their sense of honor and how they treat women, stands out in this captivating narrative. The writing is exceptional and filled with intriguing details. The Black Dragon is an immersive tale that entertains and entices readers with solid historical elements and relatable characters.
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