Pursuit at Panther Point - Cindi Myers ( HI #2171 - Oct 2023)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Critical Response (Book 2)
 
He never thought he'd see her again…
Until a killer reunites them
 
When he sees dog handler Anna Trent during a search-and-rescue mission, Deputy Lucas Malone is stunned. Two years ago, they met when she lost her husband on the same cancer ward where Lucas's girlfriend died. As Lucas now wonders about their mutual attraction, the case they're working turns into a murder investigation -- and Anna becomes a target. Lucas was powerless to save his past love. Now he'll do whatever it takes to protect Anna…
 
Terrific book. Anna and Lucas first met two years ago, on one of the worst days of Anna's life, as she watched her husband slowly dying of cancer. Lucas was there visiting his girlfriend, who was also dying. Lucas was surprised when he ran into her in Eagle Mountain, where he was filling in for another deputy.
 
Anna is a member of the Eagle Mountain Search and Rescue team, along with her dog Jacqui. They were called out to look for Dave, a missing bakery owner. I never considered a poodle a search dog, but Jacqui was fantastic at her job. She quickly found the missing man hanging from a tree in an apparent suicide. But something about the scene didn't sit right with Anna, who shared her suspicions with Lucas.
 
The suspense of this story kept me hooked from start to finish. Lucas takes their suspicions to the sheriff, who tasks Lucas with investigating. Anna's concern for Dave's wife, Sandy, also has her asking questions. The more questions they ask, the more confusing things become, as answers don't add up. Several twists kept me guessing as I bounced from one suspect to another. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, with Anna in danger and the killer determined. The resolution was terrific, with an unexpected player saving the day.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Anna and Lucas develop. In addition to seeing each other again, they are surprised at the sparks of attraction they feel. Up until now, Anna's grief has kept her from moving forward, but her reaction to Lucas reminds her that she's still alive. I liked their first date, which had some realistically awkward moments as they dealt with their past connection. There are a few bumps in the road as they work to put their pasts behind them, but ultimately, love overcame them all.
 
I loved the scenes that took place in Anna's yarn shop. It's always easy to spot an author who participates in fiber arts because it comes through in their writing. The comment about a tricky knitting action and the satisfaction of mastering it resonates when you've experienced it yourself. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the various yarns, the effects of touching or "petting" them, and the stress relief of knitting. This gave Anna added depth and relatability. 

Over Her Dead Body - Nichole Severn (HI #2141 - May 2023)

Series: Defenders of Battle Mountain (Book 5)
 
Someone wants her dead.
It's up to him to make sure that doesn't happen.
 
The first bullet didn't kill her. But the next one might. With a target on her back, Battle Mountain reserve officer Isla Vachs has no choice but to trust Adan Sergeant. The soldier-turned-bodyguard has one final mission: protect his best friend's widow and her daughter. As each step plunges Adan and Isla deeper into a sniper's crosshairs, a deadly truth is about to become chillingly clear…
 
This emotional, action-packed book kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. Two months earlier, Isla, an EMT, was shot in what appeared to be a random shooting. Since then, she has become a BMPD reserve officer, the better to protect herself and her daughter, Mazi. As this book opens, someone takes another shot at her, and she is tackled simultaneously. The bullet could have been fatal if she hadn't been wearing her vest. Then she is stunned to discover that the person who tackled her is her late husband's best friend, Adan - the man she holds responsible for Clive's death.
 
Adan feels guilty about being unable to protect Clive on their last mission in the army. Clive's last request was that Adan protects his wife and child, and when he hears rumors that Isla is in danger, he drops everything to watch over her and Mazi.
 
The twists and turns of this story kept me hooked to the end. The BMPD is in a tough place thanks to the crime that has plagued the town for the last year. The townspeople are scared and questioning the department's capability, and the mayor uses them as a political football. Another shooting has Adan and Ilsa joining forces to investigate. Neither expects the web of lies, secrets, betrayal, and murder that confronts them. I could feel their confusion and horror at what they discovered. The threats against them never let up, and there were times when I wondered how they would resolve the problem. The ending was a nail-biter, and I was glued to the pages as the action unfolded. I loved the resolution and seeing the bad guys get what they deserved.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Isla and Adan. They had always been friends because of Clint, and Mazi adored her Uncle Adan. But when Clint died, Isla blamed Adan and shut him out of her life. She wasn't happy to have him show up in Battle Mountain, but she couldn't refuse his help when the shooting started. I loved Adan's protectiveness toward both of "his girls." After years of being alone, spending time with Isla and Mazi made him realize what he was missing - and that he'd been in love with Isla for years. The attraction Isla feels for Adan makes her feel guilty, as though she is betraying Clint, and she tries putting distance between them. But in the end, she admits that life and love go on.
 
The epilogue is a teaser for the next book, which involves the quirky police dispatcher Macie. She appears to have been hiding a big secret, which is about to show up on her doorstep.

The Lyon and the Bluestocking - E.L. Johnson (Dragonblade Pub - Sept 2023)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 44)
 
An intelligent bluestocking is doomed to be a spinster. Can she find love in the Lyon’s Den?
 
Miss Elizabeth Denham is hopeless in love and a disappointment to her family. Her every word is about history and literature, earning her condemnation by Polite Society as a stuck-up bluestocking. But when her mother brings her to the Lyon’s Den, she meets Mr. James, a rake with an infamous past, who instantly catches her eye.
 
Mr. James did not expect to find anyone of interest, as so many of today’s ladies focus only on dancing and frivolities. But when he meets Elizabeth, a bluestocking with a penchant for saying the wrong thing, he is intrigued. She is everything the other ladies are not: bright and independent, with an inquiring mind worthy of any Bow Street constable.
 
As the unlikely pair grow close, they must overcome false friends, unwanted suitors, and malicious gossip. When one charming gentleman threatens to steal Elizabeth's heart, Mr. James wants to protect her. But his past is on every gossip's tongue, and it could ruin his chances with Elizabeth forever.
 
Can they find love, or will Elizabeth remain an unwed bluestocking?
 
Good addition to the series. This one is a little different than most, as the heroine is the daughter of a wealthy tradesman, not a member of the ton. Unlike the rest of her family, Elizabeth prefers her interest in history over the typical female pursuits of fashion and gossip. This puts her at odds with her mother and makes her the butt of jokes at society functions. Mrs. Denham decides to enlist the help of Mrs. Dove-Lyon in finding a suitable husband for Elizabeth.
 
I found Mrs. Dove-Lyons' solution rather interesting. The first steps are logical - updating Elizabeth's look with better clothing and hairstyles. The next step is teaching her to talk to men without descending into historical lectures. She recruits Mr. James, who has expressed interest in learning more about history and will exchange history lessons for teaching Elizabeth how to converse with gentlemen.
 
Mr. James is a man with a reputation as a rake with an infamous past. As soon as he meets her, he is intrigued by Elizabeth, and her wit and intelligence fascinate him. It is very easy for him to spend time with her.
 
I enjoyed watching the development of their relationship, though it had its ups and downs. Elizabeth may be intelligent and well-read, but she is also perilously naïve. She and Mr. James spend much time together, and their conversations are thoughtful and satisfying for both. Their meetings at the Lyon's Den go well also until she runs into a young woman who has a lot to say about Mr. James - and none of it is good. I wanted to shake Elizabeth for believing everything she said, especially as she knew that the woman wasn't trustworthy. I felt terrible for Mr. James, who clearly cares about Elizabeth and is hurt by her lack of trust.
 
Matters are complicated when another man shows interest in Elizabeth. She is flattered by his attention and is encouraged by her mother's approval. Elizabeth is torn between her attraction to Mr. James and the courtship actions of Mr. Lewis. But not everything is as it appears, and Elizabeth is soon faced with betrayal from several sides. I thought she was quite lucky that Mr. James's love was strong enough to forgive her lack of trust in him. The ending was good.

Texas Scandal - Barb Han (HI #2170 - Oct 2023)

Series: Cowboys of Cider Creek (Book 4)
 
She needs help uncovering the truth…
And one reluctant cowboy is her only hope.
 
Finding a body on his property has unexpectedly complicated Tiernan Hayes's life, and then he meets the woman being set up as the murderer. The former rodeo rider's instincts scream that Melody Cantor has been targeted because of her family connections. Melody has no one to protect her, and Tiernan knows he shouldn't get involved. But this Texan never walks away from a challenge, even one that could prove deadly.
 
Terrific, fast-paced story that hooked me from the first page and kept me intrigued to the end. The book opens with Tiernan walking his dog Loki (perfect name for the pup!) on his ranch and Loki finding a dead body. A paper with a woman's name and address is found in the victim's pocket. Tiernan rides along with the sheriff to see her.
 
Melody has just finished a job interview when she finds a mysterious note on her windshield. She's unsure if it is meant for her, or a mistake, or somehow related to her father's crimes. When she stops at home, she's met by a sheriff's deputy and Tiernan and told that she's wanted for questioning by the sheriff. She's confused and concerned but goes along with them.
 
I already liked Tiernan at this point. His instincts tell him that there is no way Melody could be the murderer. I also appreciated his immediate protectiveness as he watched the sheriff do everything he could to pin the murder on Melody. I loved how he told her to stop answering questions while he made a phone call and got her a top-notch lawyer. He takes her back to his house, where she meets Loki. Tiernan's sensitivity to her fear of dogs and explanation of Loki's history were a good look at the kind and compassionate man he is.
 
I ached for Melody as the truth of her trouble hit hard. The meeting with the lawyer helps some, but hearing the sheriff is searching her house adds to that feeling. Then, the twist of the victim's identity adds to the situation's complexity. I liked how Tiernan offered to let Melody stay with him when she didn't want to be alone.
 
Though the lawyer and the sheriff have people investigating, Tiernan and Melody decide to do a little sleuthing themselves. I loved Melody's determination to be fully involved and Tiernan's desire to help and keep her safe. The twists and turns of their searches, combined with the sheriff's determination to pin the murder on Melody, kept me as deeply invested as they were. Even as the clues piled up, I was kept guessing about who was behind the attempt to frame Melody. The final confrontation surprised me and had me on the edge of my seat until it was over.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Tiernan and Melody. They were attracted to each other from the moment they met but tried to resist because of their situation. Both also have trust issues from previous relationships, which take a little while to overcome. I especially liked Tiernan's protectiveness and the sweet way he cared for Melody. At the same time, she felt protective of him and tried to keep from being too disruptive to his life. I liked seeing the similarities in their attitudes towards wealth and privilege. I loved the ending and seeing them admit their feelings for each other. I wish there had been an epilogue because I would have liked more about Tiernan and his family.
 
Loki was my favorite secondary character. I loved how Tiernan told Melody Loki's story and its effect on her. Tiernan's love for the dog was undeniable, and I loved seeing them together. I also liked Loki's protectiveness toward Tiernan and Melody. I've had two labs, and the author nailed the breed's personality. 

Down to the Wire - Patricia Sargeant (HRS #2250 - Oct 2023)

Series: Touré Security Group (Book 1)
 
Reunited by danger…
…and racing against the clock
 
On the trail of a hacker, IT security expert Malachi Touré finds…a woman from his past he's never gotten over. Dr. Grace Blackwell is no hacker. She's a medical researcher, and someone has stolen a potentially deadly formula from her computer. Despite the still-simmering attraction between them, Mal is wary of trusting her again. Then everything changes when a killer has Grace in their sights…
 
Good combination of second chance romance and suspense. The story opens as Grace, a medical researcher, opens an email that immediately hacks into her files. Several files are stolen, which could be dangerous in the wrong hands. She also learns that her mentor, Dr. B., died in a fall the night before he supposedly sent her the suspect file. Grace sets out to discover who hacked her computer by doing the same thing in reverse.
 
Mal, one of three brothers who own the Touré Security Group,  was hired that day to discover who hacked into a defense contractor's computer system. He's stunned when the hacker he's chasing sends him a message accusing him of being the hacker. After an unsatisfactory exchange of messages, they agree to meet. Mal is shocked when the hacker who shows up is his ex-girlfriend.
 
Mal and Grace have a history together. They met in Chicago four years earlier and had an intense relationship. But when Grace's older sister Pam died of diabetes-related complications, Grace was riddled with guilt. She felt she'd allowed her relationship with Mal to interfere with her diabetes research, so she walked away from him. They've never forgotten each other, and now they are thrown together as they race to find out who stole Grace's files.
 
There were many times I wanted to grab Grace by the shoulders and shake her. The attraction and connection between her and Mal is still there, but she refuses to believe that she can do her work and have a relationship at the same time. Whenever she and Mal seem to get closer, she pushes him away. Grace also has significant trust issues, which become more apparent as they look for suspects.
 
Mal is a good guy who is reluctant to risk his heart with Grace again. Her departure four years earlier devastated him. He has closed himself off from people, preferring to do his work with the company via email and texts rather than face-to-face.
 
The rekindling of their relationship was complicated. Both are wary of getting involved again. However, the sparks and connection are so obvious that everyone around them can see them. I liked Mal's protectiveness as the danger intensified, and I appreciated that Grace trusted him enough to accept his protection. As their feelings for each other grow stronger, they must consider whether they are willing to risk their hearts again. It takes straight talk from their loved ones to let go of their fears and take that leap of faith.
 
The suspense of the story was good. The number of suspects grew as Mal and Grace dug deeper into who would benefit from the theft. The twists and turns of the investigation kept me hooked as the body count went up, and they got closer to the truth. The final confrontation came as a surprise and turned intense very quickly. I loved Grace's coolness and presence of mind as she faced off with the killer. The resolution was well done and believable.
 
I enjoyed getting to know Mal's brothers, Zeke and Jerry. The dynamics among the three brothers were interesting and showcased each one's personality well. Mal is the quiet one and the peacemaker who finds himself refereeing the arguments between Zeke and Jerry. Zeke is the oldest and tends to be a little bossy. Jerry is the youngest and appears to have a great deal of resentment toward Zeke. However, they put aside their differences to keep Grace safe. They also extend their protection to her grandmother. I loved Melba, a feisty old lady in an assisted living center in Florida. She has a great relationship with Grace and is blunt in advising Grace about her lack of a life outside of work. I laughed out loud when Jerry was sent to be Melba's guard because she got into the cover story with so much enthusiasm.

Her Off-Limits Single Dad - Marion Lennox (HMED #1345 - Oct 2023)

Series: Paramedics and Pups (Book 1)
 
Colleagues, housemates…
Soulmates?
 
After a disastrous relationship, paramedic Jenny needs this fresh start in remote Willhua. When her living arrangements fall through, gorgeous local doc Rob offers Jenny and the injured pup she's just rescued a room. Their immediate chemistry is overwhelmingly intense, but it's clear this single dad's life is currently in limbo -- placing him firmly off-limits! Jenny's scared to open herself up again. Is this instant family worth taking a chance on?
 
Good book. Jenny left Sydney after a disastrous relationship and moved to a small town. On her first day as a paramedic, she is involved in a rescue that puts all of her skills to the test. After the rescue, she takes custody of one of the man's dogs, an adorable corgi named Stumpy. When her landlady pitches a fit over the dog, local doctor Rob offers Jenny a room in the hospital-owned "doctor's house" he occupies with his son Jacob.
 
Rob is a single dad raising his son Jacob. His life is in limbo thanks to a devastating event when Jacob was born. He also deals with overbearing in-laws who believe Jacob belongs with them.
 
The sparks between Rob and Jenny are evident from the moment they meet. They try to ignore them, as Jenny isn't ready for a relationship after her ex's betrayal, and Rob isn't truly free to pursue them. There are some sweet scenes between them as they work together and others involving young Jacob. I also liked their professional teamwork, especially the baby delivery during the flood. But when they give in to their attraction, and Jenny later learns the truth of Rob's situation, she can't help feeling that history is repeating itself. It takes time apart and self-examination for each of them to put aside the past and look to the future.
 
Rob's situation is complex, and his in-laws don't help things. I understood their grief, but their actions regarding their daughter verged on the cruel. I also disliked their hold over Rob and Jacob. Their intrusiveness was over-the-top, and Rob should have stopped it long before. The scene with Jenny and the father-in-law was highly creepy. I was happy to see the changes that occurred at the end of the book.
 
The medical portions of the story were interesting. I always learn something new when I read a book from this line.

Second Chance with His Viking Wife - Sara Rodi (HH #1753 - Oct 2023)

Back to claim his crown
…and his wife!
 
Prince Teon married the Viking chief's daughter Revna to prevent a war, only to leave immediately to fight another one. Now, he's returned to claim his crown! He's stunned to discover the love his people have for Revna, and by the intensity of their unexpected connection. Teon tells himself he only needs Revna as an ally, until the passion of their belated wedding night promises they could be so much more…
 
Terrific book. Teon and Revna were forced to marry to prevent a war. Revna was young and hopeful of a successful marriage. Teon is angry because he blames Revna's father for his mother's death. He then leaves to continue fighting other conflicts and stays away for eight years, returning only when he hears of his father's death.
 
I loved Revna. Instead of returning to her father's home, she stuck it out in her new life. As a Viking woman in a Saxon kingdom, she is looked at with suspicion and distrust. I liked hearing about how she earned the love and respect of the people around her by being the caring and compassionate woman she is. I also liked how she retained her Norse heritage and customs. That heritage is helpful during the siege as she uses her skills to help defend the castle. I also liked her independence, as shown by how she stood up to Teon when he tried to cut her out of things she'd been doing for years.
 
Teon was harder to like throughout most of the book. From the start, he takes out his prejudices against the Vikings on Revna, treating her with cruelty and contempt. After his return, he continues to do so, blaming her for anything wrong. He even refuses to consummate the marriage, not wanting to "taint" his pure Saxon blood with her heathen blood. He isn't happy about his growing desire for her.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Teon and Revna. Because of the siege, they are forced to work together, and their growing attraction becomes harder to resist. Teon's blind prejudice against Revna takes hit after hit as she shows her care and compassion for Teon's people. Despite his vow to avoid tainting his bloodline, he rationalizes taking Revna to bed to stop his distraction during the fighting. There are a few sweet scenes between them, but even then, Teon pulls away, recalling his reasons for his hatred. When he goes too far, Revna sneaks away, and Teon finally realizes the truth of his feelings.
 
Teon's hatred of the Vikings lies in events involving his parents and Revna's father. I enjoyed the slow revealing of those events and the truth behind them. Revna's determination and bravery in pursuing the truth also opened Teon's eyes to the things he didn't know. Teon's father's past comes back to bite Teon when his illegitimate half-brother lays siege to the castle, determined to take Teon's castle, crown, and wife. The details of the fight are vividly described, making it easy to feel part of the action. The resolution of the siege is intense, with several twists that kept me glued to the pages. I loved the ending and seeing Teon embrace his feelings for Revna.

Marked for Revenge - Delores Fossen (HI #2169 - Oct 2023)

Series: Silver Creek Lawmen: Second Generation (Book 4)
 
For a pregnant deputy and the father of her baby, this case isn't just about catching a killer.
 
Ever since female victims started turning up wearing death masks of her face, Deputy Ava Lawson has been in terror for herself and her unborn child. The Texas Ranger assigned to the case knows Ava's deepest, darkest secrets. Harley Ryland is also her baby's father. As her past explodes on the present, Ava and Harley track a killer who won't stop until a long-awaited revenge is complete…
 
Terrific book that pulled me in from the first page and kept me hooked to the end. A serial killer is loose in Silver Creek, and it looks like Deputy Ava Lawson has an unknown link to them.
 
The Silver Creek Sheriff's Department is working hard to identify a killer. The case is especially creepy because the female victims are all found wearing masks with Ava's face. The mayor isn't happy with the lack of progress and calls in a Texas Ranger to assist. That Ranger is Harley Ryland, who happens to be Ava's ex-boyfriend and the father of her unborn child.
 
Ava parted ways with Harley over a disagreement about her politician father's illegal activities about the same time she discovered she was pregnant. She is adamant that they are done as a couple but will still co-parent their child. But as they work together to solve the case, it becomes increasingly obvious that they still have feelings for each other. Harley must carefully balance his protectiveness with respect for Ava's abilities while not pushing too hard to resume their relationship. Ava must realize that leaning on him for support doesn't make her weak.  I loved the ending and how they saw that they belonged together.
 
The suspense of the story was excellent. The author has a formula that works well, and this book was no exception. As they delve into the investigation, secrets from Ava's past that may be connected to the murders are revealed. Ava and Harley identify several suspects, each with motive and means. There were twists and turns and intensifying danger as they came closer to identifying the killer. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I was glued to the pages as it played out. The resolution was well done.
 
There were some intriguing family dynamics in this book. I understood why Ava distances herself from her father. Besides his questionable ethics, she has a long-standing grudge against him for something that happened when she was a teenager. One of the twists in the story turns out to be a good one, and I enjoyed seeing how it played out at the end. I also liked seeing more of the Rylands. Grayson makes a brief appearance, and seeing him remind Harley to visit his parents was amusing.

Love at First Bark - Michelle Major (HSE #3010 - Oct 2023)

Series: Crimson Colorado (Book 12)
 
Sometimes love happens in the most re-bark-able way.
 
Cassie Raebourn's love life has gone to the dogs -- literally. A childhood trauma inspired her career as a veterinarian where she indulges her special fondness for dogs. Then, Aiden Riley unexpectedly walks into her clinic and steals her heart. The reckless rodeo star was at the center of the trauma all those years ago. Cassie knows Aiden feels the attraction too. Can they bury the past and find the courage to let each other in?
 
The story opens with a heartbreaking scene involving Cassie and Aiden as children. The events of that day affected each differently as they grew into adulthood. Aiden and his mother and sister left Crimson right after this, escaping from an abusive situation.
 
Twenty years later, Cassie is a veterinarian filling in at the same vet's office where she volunteered as a child, hoping to be hired permanently. She's surprised when Aiden arrives with his nephew, George, who has found an injured puppy. Cassie immediately takes care of the pup, which gets her in trouble with the other vet. Some antagonistic sparks are flying between Aiden and Cassie, as he insists they are not keeping the dog while Cassie treats the situation like they are. But under the antagonism are sparks of another sort.
 
Cassie has been an animal lover all her life. It shows in her menagerie at home and how she connects with the animals and their owners at work. She gives her all to her work to the detriment of her personal life. Her sunny personality covers some painful memories that affect how she approaches relationships.
 
Because of the abuse he suffered as a child, Aiden has closed off his heart and feelings to everyone except his sister and nephew. He is in town for a short time to help them after the death of his sister's husband. He does not intend to stay long in a town with so many bad memories.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Cassie and Aiden develop. Though they try to avoid each other and the sparks that fly between them, circumstances keep throwing them together. Cassie's sunny personality soon finds its way into the dark corners of Aiden's heart. I enjoyed seeing them spend time together, whether dealing with dogs or hiking local trails. Giving into their attraction brings them closer, but while Cassie is ready for more, Aiden can't let go of his need to protect himself. It takes the thought of losing her for him to finally let go of his fears and let her in. Cassie also has to overcome her insecurities and, in doing so, finds a future she hadn't expected.
 
The epilogue was terrific. I enjoyed seeing what a difference love has made in their lives.
 
I liked the scenes showing Cassie in her work as a vet. Her care and compassion make a big difference in the lives of the pets and owners she interacts with. I detested the vet she was working with - the same vet who Aiden dealt with twenty years ago. He is heartless and has no business being a vet. His constant denigration of Cassie was infuriating. The vet she was filling in for was her mentor as a child. I expected better of him in his dealings with Cassie. He came through in the end but should have been more supportive earlier.

Montana Rain - Josie Jade (Calamitte Jane Pub - Sept 2023)

Series: Resting Warrior Ranch (Book 8)
 
Psychiatrist Rayne Westerfield has found purpose in helping patients, especially those with PTSD, heal at the Resting Warrior Ranch. For her, there’s no greater calling than equipping people to fight the worst of their demons.
 
But she’s never allowed anyone to help her fight her own.
 
She’s kept her distance. Kept herself buttoned up tight. Even the people in the small Montana town she’s known for years—the ones she calls friends—don’t know who she really is, and the fears she hides.
 
And that’s okay.
 
But it’s not okay to Cole Phillips.
 
The FBI agent’s first interaction with the Resting Warrior Ranch a few months ago wasn’t under the best of circumstances, but he’s determined to make up for that now.
 
Where everyone else sees ice in Rayne, he sees fire. And he’s not going to let her fears keep him at a distance.
 
Especially not when Rayne witnesses something she shouldn’t and a killer comes after her. Cole will battle the criminal determined to silence her, and the fears she’s buried so deep.
 
The healer has fought for everyone else. Now this warrior will fight for her.
 
Terrific ending to the series. Cole first appeared in Montana Freedom, where he was part of an FBI team. He didn't know then that his partner was in cahoots with the bad guys. Now, he's dealing with the mistrust of his fellow agents, so he takes a leave of absence to deal with his feelings and get some distance from the workplace stress. He's also determined to mend fences with the men at the Resting Warrior Ranch and see if there is anything to his feelings for Rayne.
 
Rayne is the psychiatrist who works with the wounded warriors at the ranch and anyone else who needs her help. Though she has become close to the people of RWR, there are parts of her past she keeps locked away. Though she is equally attracted to Cole, she refuses to do anything about it because she believes terrible things happen to those she cares about.
 
Rayne is able to maintain her distance from Cole until a chance encounter in Chicago brings them together, and the sparks are stirred up again. While she's relieved to go home and put distance between them again, she has no idea that Cole is headed to Garnet Bend for the next four months. I loved her first encounter with him and how he puts her on notice that he's determined to pursue their attraction. He won't pressure her but lets her know he isn't going anywhere.
 
Things change when she sees a news story about a Chicago murder, and then her office is broken into. The team at RWR is looking into it and is not convinced it's a coincidence. When her home is broken into, Rayne barely escapes discovery. The first person she calls is Cole, who rushes to her side. It doesn't take long to figure out what has happened and that Rayne is in danger. I loved seeing Cole's protectiveness come out.
 
Cole whisks Rayne off to his cabin, hoping to keep her safe while the team at RWR works their way through the possibilities. Rayne is wary of being alone with Cole, afraid that her resolve to resist him won't last. Things get complicated when a freak blizzard snows them in. All of this alone time gives the attraction between them time to build. At the same time, Cole's understanding and patience enable Rayne to finally open up about the trauma in her past that keeps her from allowing herself to care about anyone. Breaking free of that guilt lets Rayne give in to her attraction to Cole, and they find plenty of ways to stay warm.
 
But their peace doesn't last long, and with the end of the blizzard comes the end of their safety. The action picks up as those looking for Rayne find their hideout. There were some tense moments as Cole and Rayne avoided detection, but they knew their options were limited. The only thing to do is to return to Chicago and deal with the issue. The action was intense, with threats, kidnappings, and a ticking clock. The final confrontation had me glued to the pages with its twists and turns. I loved the ending, especially Cole's plans for the future. The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up for the book and series. I'd love to see a return to the ranch sometime in the future.

The Duke's Defender - C.H. Admirand (Dragonblade Pub - Sept 2023)

Series: Duke's Guard (Book 6)
 
“Lass, ye need to trust someone in yer hour of darkness…let it be me.”
 
Aiden Garahan is tasked with protecting the duke’s new ward. He promises to protect her with his life. The lovely young woman, with auburn hair and quiet gray eyes is no child, but a petite, curvaceous beauty. His reaction to her is unexpected and unwanted.
 
Miss Emily Montrose may be small in stature, but she is no shrinking violet! When a runaway carriage tragically cuts her father’s life short, she is thrust into chaos as the duke’s ward. Her life is turned upside down when rumors and a wager challenges all comers to win her hand. Emily’s life is threatened as the wager increases and unscrupulous men see her as a prize.
 
Aiden must cut through the lies to the truth. He guards her valiantly and vows to protect her to the last beat of his heart, while she steals it away, one glance at a time…one caress at a time. Aiden faces a battle he never imagined…one that pits his heart against his honor!
 
Danger stalks in the night, but it will have to challenge The Duke’s Defender before he will let harm come to those he has sworn to protect with his strength, his honor, and his heart.
 
Book six in the Duke's Guard series and another Irishman gets bitten by the love bug. It's always fun to see these tough guys get felled by an emotion they think they can control.
 
In this book, Aiden Garahan's assignment is to protect the Duke's new ward, Miss Emily Montrose. Her father's death has left her a wealthy woman, and the fortune hunters are coming out of the woodwork, egged on by rumors and unscrupulous wagers. Emily doesn't understand why her father insisted on asking the Duke of Wyndmere to be her guardian if anything happened to him. She's a grown woman and fully capable of taking care of herself.
 
Aiden and Emily clash immediately upon his arrival when she attempts to refuse him entry.  As a member of the Duke's Guard, Aiden expects immediate cooperation and isn't happy with Emily's resistance. I laughed at their back and forth over the use of "lass" and "gentleman," neither inclined to give way to the other. But beneath the antagonism are sparks of attraction that neither want to admit.
 
Aiden doesn't take long to realize that things are not as they seem. There is suspicion that Emily's father's death was no accident. The arrival of the first suitors is dealt with by Aiden, who then returns to the Montrose home to discover three more men who have managed to gain access to Emily. That scene made me laugh out loud as Aiden and his two fellow guards put the fear of God (or Bow Street and the Duke of Wyndmere) into them.
 
That isn't the end, and Aiden and the others are kept busy protecting Emily. The intensity of the attacks steadily increases, from more intruders to attempts at abduction. Aiden and the others stay busy investigating who is responsible for the trouble and their attempts to catch him. Their determination is unmatched, and I enjoyed seeing them close the net on their quarry. The final confrontation was intense but short-lived, as Aiden followed through on his promise to keep Emily safe.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Aiden and Emily. The sparks between them are undeniable and obvious to those around them. Their conversations were fun to witness, whether debating word choices or arguing over her protection. Emily is a stubborn woman whose disagreements with Aiden do nothing to lessen her fascination with him. The scene in the stable was entertaining, as was the conversation between Emily and the housekeeper afterward.
 
The feelings between Aiden and Emily continue to grow, but neither gives any indication to the other, believing that a relationship is impossible. I loved their arrival at the duke's home and watching Aiden get into it with Patrick over his familiarity with Emily. It was great to see how Emily takes matters into her own hands with help from the duchess. I could picture Aiden's face at the surprise the duke had for him. The epilogue was terrific, and I look forward to hearing about them in future books. 

 

Wyoming Mountain Cold Case - Juno Rushdan (HI #2172 - Oct 2023)

Series: Cowboy State Lawmen (Book 6)
 
A murder spree brings a sheriff and police chief together…
 
Called to the scene of a killer's latest victim, Laramie PD chief Willa Nelson and Sheriff Daniel Clark must work together despite jurisdictional differences. But as their investigation leads to a cold case, Willa has to trust Daniel with the truth. As the bodies pile up and the pressure mounts, they find themselves facing more than one unstoppable killer…
 
Good second chance romance combined with gripping suspense. The story's prologue showed the serial killer, his first victim, and a vivid illustration of the evil in store. This is followed five years later by the discovery of a body in the woods. This is the second body killed in this manner lately, and our law enforcement duo soon discovered a disturbing similarity to some cold cases.
 
Daniel is the county sheriff and catches the recent case because it is in his jurisdiction - barely. Willa is the town's police chief and has a similar case that happened within the town limits. There is some history between Willa and Daniel that has caused tension since they took up their posts, but both agree that working together is the best way to stop the killer.
 
Daniel and Willa had carried on a short but intense affair before being hired to their current positions. Willa broke things off to protect her heart, as her relationships tend to end badly. She also wants to keep her professional and personal lives separate, thanks to the attitudes of some people she's worked with. Daniel disagreed with the breakup, but she gave him no choice. Now, they'll spend time together as they work on the case.
 
I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Willa tries hard to keep the distance between her and Daniel, but ignoring the sparks that still fly between them becomes increasingly difficult. Daniel respects Willa's abilities, but his protective instincts kick in when it becomes clear that she is the killer's next target. Sometimes, I wanted to shake Willa for pushing Daniel away even though she appreciated his comfort and understanding. I liked seeing them realize they were perfect together, professionally and personally.
 
The suspense of the story kept me hooked from start to finish. The victims are linked to the Shining Light cult featured in the previous books, adding to the problems law enforcement has with them. I enjoyed watching Daniel and Willa work through the puzzling clues, refusing to allow the leader to block their efforts to find the truth. There were several twists to the investigation that I didn't see coming, culminating with two intense confrontations. There was a final twist to the fate of the cult that caught me by surprise.
 
Willa's twenty-one-year-old son plays an important role in the book also. He and Willa have a strained relationship that weighs deeply on her. His prior involvement with the cult didn't help anything. There are some tense times between the two because of it. It was interesting to see how things changed as the book progressed. I loved his part in the epilogue.

How to Cheat the Marriage Mart - Millie Adams (HH #1677 - Oct 2022)

Series: Society's Most Scandalous (Book 2)
 
His plans to fool the ton…
Thwarted by a country debutante!
 
George Claremont, Marquess of Curran, has cultivated his rakish reputation to enable his covert work helping children in England's workhouses. Now the destruction of these institutions hinges on a well-laid marriage proposal. But stepping into the wrong room at a ball -- and into a compromising situation with the prim Kitty Fitzroy -- threatens his plan to cheat the marriage mart… Or might he have found the perfect accomplice?
 
Good story about two people who have more in common than they realize. Kitty is an eighteen-year-old debutante during this London Season, which isn't going well for her. Her new guardians are kind, but Kitty feels out of place in a society that pays no attention to the problems of those beneath them. Kitty's father had been a socially conscious man and raised her to be the same way. She was accustomed to country life and how villagers cared for each other. She is disgusted by the ton's uncaring attitude and frequently finds herself trying to convince others of problems such as child labor. As a result, she has become a wallflower, which doesn't bother her as much as she thinks it should.
 
George is a nobleman with the reputation of a foolish, shallow rake known for his drunkenness and womanizing. Nobody knows that this is a carefully cultivated façade used to hide his true purpose of investigating those guilty of crimes against children. His reasons for this are heartbreaking and have driven his actions for many years. When he isn't playing the fool, he has a successful shipping business that funds his covert activities.
 
The initial meetings between Kitty and George are antagonistic. She makes no secret of her disapproval of him, and he mocks her zealousness. Under the antagonism are sparks of attraction that both try to ignore. Kitty because she disapproves of him, and George because he has plans that include proposing to another woman. But George and Kitty frequently encounter each other, and the sparks don't diminish. Then George steps into the wrong room at a ball, expecting to see one woman and encountering Kitty instead. A moment of ill-advised action and the inconvenient arrival of a pair of gossips ensures a rapid marriage.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Kitty and George. George is well aware of Kitty's opinions about child labor and that his match hers, but he refuses to tell her about his undercover activities. One thing they can both admit is the attraction between them, and there is nothing to stop them from giving in. It was interesting to see that their physical intimacy helped open Kitty's eyes to the fact that there is more to George than she had previously realized. Many of his actions don't reconcile with his public persona. It isn't until she confronts him about his sneaking out at night that he confesses all.
 
I loved Kitty's determination to help. She has fallen deeply in love with her unexpectedly honorable husband and wants to be part of his mission. But Kitty's confession of her love comes up against George's fears of risking his heart. The scene with the young girl George rescues is heartbreaking, and I could feel his pain. Kitty's attempts to help him only bring their differing views on the best way to help into the open. I hurt for Kitty as George's refusal to admit his love drove her away. After some soul searching, and in George's case, facing his past, each realized they had been protecting their hearts. I liked the ending, and the epilogue was a good story wrap-up.

Hunted at Christmas - Dana R. Lynn (LIS #1061 - Oct 2023)

Series: Amish Country Justice (Book 17)
 
Wanted by a bounty hunter.
Chased by a killer.
 
When single mother Addison Johnson is attacked by a hitman, she learns there's a price on her head. And Isaiah Bender -- the bounty hunter hired to track her down for crimes she didn't commit -- is her only hope for survival. Protecting Addison and her young son from armed assailants means seeking refuge in Amish country. But when their holiday hideout is discovered, can he clear an innocent woman's name and keep her alive?
 
Terrific book. I have been looking forward to Isaiah's story, which definitely met expectations. Isaiah left Sutter Springs and his Amish family seventeen years ago after a traumatic event and hasn't returned since then. After a few years in the military, Isaiah found work as a bounty hunter, which is what brought him back to his hometown. He finds his quarry being attacked by a killer, and something about the situation stirs his suspicions.
 
Addie is a widow with a four-year-old son, Ollie. Her police officer husband was killed four years earlier, and not long after, she discovered she was being stalked. After someone, presumedly her stalker broke into her house, Addie changed her name and her occupation and moved to Ohio, hoping to have left him behind. But she is always looking over her shoulder, worried that he would find her again, and is prepared to run at a moment's notice.
 
The book opens with a rush as Addie hears someone in her house. Wasting no time, she grabs her go bag and makes it out the window, steps ahead of the intruder. Ollie arrives home from school just then, and they rush to a neighbor's house. Addie is terrified when she is attacked there by someone intent on killing her. She's stunned when another man saves her from the attacker, but her troubles aren't over. She is shocked to discover she's wanted for crimes she didn't commit.
 
I loved that Isaiah took the time to listen to Addie and to the instincts that told him something wasn't right. This begins a roller coaster of a story as Isaiah protects Addie and Ollie while trying to discover the truth. The action is intense, with car chases, escapes over frozen ponds, and multiple attacks. The twists and turns kept me glued to the pages until the end. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that had me truly worried for Addie's safety. The resolution had a couple of surprises.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Isaiah and Addie develop. There was something about Addie that got past Isaiah's walls right from the start. At the same time, Addie felt safe with Isaiah there to protect them. Isaiah may be a tough guy, but he is also a good man. I loved watching him with Ollie, who quickly wiggled his way into Isaiah's heart. Watching Addie with Ollie reminds Isaiah of his childhood and makes him wonder about his family. Addie's faith and understanding help Isaiah let go of some of the pain of his past. Can their growing feelings for each other translate into a future together? Isaiah has some self-examination to do and is helped along the way by some straight talk from one of his brothers. I liked his big moment at the end and the twist in Addie's life. The epilogue was terrific.
 
An incredibly heartwarming scene comes when Isaiah and Addie need the help of the local police. Isaiah is shocked when faced with the law enforcement officers who show up. This is followed by a multi-tissue moment that changes Isaiah's life.

I can't wait for the next book, which is Gideon's story.

Caught by You - Jennifer Bernard (Avon - Jan 2016)

Series: Love Between the Bases (Book 2)
 
Months of alternately flirting and bickering with Kilby Catfish catcher Mike Solo just turned into the hottest kiss of Donna MacIntyre's life -- and that's a major league complication. Any hint of scandal could keep her from getting her son back from her well-connected ex. Then Mike comes up with a game-changing idea: a marriage proposal that could help win her case -- even as it jeopardizes her heart . . .
 
Mike hasn't been able to get the gorgeous, gutsy redhead out of his fantasies. The least he can do is fix the mess he helped create. Yet their engagement is quickly becoming about a lot more than doing the right thing. Because after swearing he'd never risk love again, Mike has found a passion that puts all his emotions in play, and a woman he'll go to bat for again and again . . .
 
Terrific book full of humor, love, family, and friendship. In the previous book, All of Me, Donna and Mike met when Mike stepped up to protect her during a bar fight. What followed was several months of back-and-forth flirting that culminated in a scorching kiss in a library closet, guaranteeing that neither forgot the other during the off-season. But when Mike returns to Kilby in the spring, the fun and feisty Donna has changed so much that Mike barely recognizes her.
 
Donna has a reputation as a fun-loving party girl until her ex and his fiancée decide they want full custody of Donna's son, Zack. His paternal grandparents have raised four-year-old Zack for heartbreaking reasons. Donna has visitation, adores her little Zack-ster, and wants to get him back. However, Harvey and Bonita have wealth and power on their side. When her lawyer tells Donna she must clean up her act, she takes it to heart and reinvents herself with a new job, clothes, and attitude.
 
But the sparks of attraction between Mike and Donna can't be denied and flare up whenever they are near each other. Mike has a unique method of self-control during baseball season, but being around Donna puts a strain on it. When his actions jeopardize Donna's custody quest, he devises the perfect fix - ask Donna to marry him.
 
Mike is a good man. He's a great example to his fellow ballplayers and protective of those he cares about. I love his relationship with his brother Joey and the impact that relationship has on his life. However, he avoids anything related to love, having been burned several years earlier. I ached for him because of the story behind that relationship.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Mike and Donna develop. The flirting and banter between them are fun, and it's easy to see how right they are for each other. I loved how they trusted each other, sharing things no one else knew about them. As they grow closer, Mike refuses to see that what he feels for Donna is love, not just protectiveness. When the custody battle gets vicious, and Mike realizes he may be doing more harm than good, he sets her free, even though he doesn't want to let her go.
 
Many times, Mike, Donna, or both get involved in situations that complicate their lives. Many of these situations are laugh-out-loud funny, while a few are deeply emotional. I loved the fight on the baseball field and Donna's method of ending it. I adored Mike's big moment when he went to bat for Donna in the custody battle.
 
The changes Mike and Donna experienced throughout the book show how they learned about who they were and what was important to them. I especially liked how Mike helped Donna see what a warm, wonderful, and outstanding mother she was.
 
Secondary characters in the book played essential parts in the story. I loved getting to know other Catfish players like Trevor, Dwight, and Jim. Their support of Mike after his return from Chicago was heartwarming. I also like the team owner, Crush, and his love for his team. Donna's ex, Harvey, is a wimp throughout the book. His fiancée, Bonita, is a nasty piece of work who needs to be taken down a peg or two. The power family in town, the Wades, have far too much influence, and it's always fun to see someone go up against them and win. I loved Mike's brother Joey and his belief in Mike. His story was inspiring and heartbreaking and had a profound effect on Mike.

The Lyon Who Loved Me - Tracy Sumner (Dragonblade - Sept 2023)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 43)
 
Where broken engagements unveil hidden passions...
 
Wilhelmina Wright's unwavering determination for independence fuels her quest to find a desperate husband who has no choice but to embrace her fierce spirit. Enter the daring matchmaker, Bessie Dove-Lyon, who sees Wilhelmina as a risky yet captivating gamble. Who better to pair Wilhelmina with than her incorrigible nephew, Griffin Beckett, Viscount Kent?
 
A viscount enters the treacherous realm of love...
 
When Griffin is kidnapped on his wedding day, escape becomes his utmost priority, leaving apologies to his almost-wife for later. Little does he know that his path will again cross Wilhelmina’s when she’s forced to save him from himself.
 
Amidst broken engagements, hidden motives and second chances, Wilhelmina and Griffin must confront their pasts to unravel the true meaning of love and trust.
 
Can they find their way back to each other, or will they forever be lost in the shadows of a passion that threatens to destroy them?
 
Another good Lyon's Den book. I'm late to the party with this series, but I thoroughly enjoy them. In this story, Wilhelmina goes to Mrs. Dove-Lyons for help finding a husband. She's looking for a man who needs her money enough to support her unorthodox activities. Mrs. Dove-Lyons has the perfect candidate - her late husband's nephew, Griffin. Neither she nor Mina expected Griffin to be a no-show on their wedding day.
 
Griffin's estates are debt-ridden, thanks to his younger brother's gambling. He agrees to the marriage, but he is kidnapped before he can carry out his promise. His abductors require him to work for them until his debts are paid off but allow him to become a partner and earn a percentage of the profits. So he rolls up his sleeves and goes to work.
 
Almost a year later, we find Griff hiding outside the Lyon's Den in the dark. He's injured and feverish, and Mrs. Dove-Lyons is the only one he can trust, though he knows he's still in her black books from the wedding that never was. I liked the conversation between Griff and her; she would not let him off lightly from the previous year's debacle. Neither has she given up on making the match and turns Griff over to Mina for healing.
 
I enjoyed watching this relationship develop. Mina is in no hurry to forgive Griff for his actions, even after she knows the truth. She has another possible suitor in mind. But she didn't count on the sparks of interest and attraction resurrected when they met again. She also didn't expect Griff's determination to marry her.
 
Despite his rakish reputation, Griff is a good man with a generous and protective heart. That protectiveness is aroused as he gets to know Mina and becomes aware of her activities. Their banter is fun, as Mina is a strong, independent woman who knows what she wants, and Griff intends to take care of the woman he's come to care for. The painting scene was exciting and showed how they began to respect and support each other. I loved Griff's grand gesture at the end and how it showed how well he knew, understood, and loved her.
 
The epilogue was terrific. I enjoyed seeing Griff's hint of vulnerability while Mina is as strong and confident as ever.

Coulda Been a Cowboy - Brenda Novak (HQN - Mar 2014)

Series: Dundee Idaho (Book 8)
 
Old-fashioned values never go out of style
 
Grandpa Garnier used to say, Love is like a bucking bronco. It takes guts and determination to hang on, but it's worth the ride.
 
If only Grandpa was around now to help Tyson Garnier out of this mess. The famous pro football player is suddenly saddled with a very public scandal--and an illegitimate child. Tyson needs a good nanny now if he's going to salvage his career. And plain, no-nonsense Dakota Brown is the ideal candidate.
 
Dakota doesn't care for football or a man who doesn't seem to want his own son. But she needs this job, and that precious little baby needs her.
 
Dakota isn't Tyson's kind of woman. But the more he sees of her--and the more he sees of his son--the harder he wants to hang on.
 
Good book. Tyson is a pro football player in a world of trouble. He has an injured knee and must get back into shape before the season starts. He discovered he'd had a child with a woman he'd spent a short time with. He wasn't happy about that, as he'd never intended to have children but paid child support. Then he found out she wasn't taking care of little Braden properly and was able to get sole custody - which only cost him a million dollars. But that isn't enough for Rachelle, who begins making accusations of heinous behavior by Tyson, potentially costing him his job and endorsements. To top everything off, Tyson has no idea how to care for a baby and no interest in learning. So, he is in search of a nanny.
 
Dakota has lived in Dundee all her life. Her mother died when Dakota was young, leaving her to be raised by her father. By the time this story begins, Dakota is twenty-six and lives with her father, who is sick and off and on abusive to her. Things in their past make her unwilling to leave him, so she works in town to make ends meet. A friend recommends her to Tyson as a nanny for Braden. I loved how Dakota was unimpressed by Tyson's fame and money and dismayed by his apparent lack of interest in his son. His desperation for her help was evident in the way he tried to get her to start that day.
 
I liked watching the relationship develop between Tyson and Dakota. Though the sparks of attraction are there, both try to ignore them. Instead, they form a solid friendship. I liked how Dakota supported Tyson as he faced Rachelle's unfounded accusations, especially the day the police detective came to question him. I also liked how Tyson was there to help Dakota deal with her father. His solution worked well to get her out of danger and help keep her father out of trouble. I enjoyed seeing their friendship grow and how Dakota helped Tyson learn to love Braden through her example.
 
Dakota didn't take too long to realize that her heart was in danger. Not only did she love little Braden, but Tyson was also becoming more important to her. She knows they have no future, as she is tied to Dundee, and Tyson will return to California for football season. What was fun and frustrating was watching Tyson fight his feelings. He did everything he could to convince himself he didn't care, even going so far as to introduce her to other men. The scenes at his barbecue were hilarious, especially his reaction to Dakota spending time with Joe.
 
While that broke through some of Tyson's resistance, he still refused to see the truth of his feelings. His issues cause him to pull away from Dakota, and she realizes that his fears are stronger than what they have between them. I liked that Dakota stood up for her needs and made plans to do what was right for her. Tyson earned his misery, and it took some straight talk from his friend Gabe for him to see the truth. His big moment at the end was a bit over-the-top, as he made his plans without asking the question first, but it worked out for him. The epilogue was good.