Colton's Body of Proof - Karen Whiddon (HRS #2223 - Apr 2023)

Series: Coltons of New York (Book 3)
 
Digging into the past…
…might get her killed
 
Within minutes of reconnecting with her high school boyfriend, CSI Ellie Mathers survives two attempts on her life. Liam Colton insists on staying by her side until he knows she’s safe, and Ellie doesn’t push him away. Is it because she wants his help figuring out if her long-lost childhood best friend wants her dead? Or because the bad boy she broke up with has grown into an upstanding—and extremely sexy—man?
 
Good book. Ellie receives two surprises in one morning. First, she spots her long-lost childhood best friend on a subway platform - a friend that has been missing for sixteen years. After chasing after Aliana but not catching her, Ellie proceeds on her way to work. Seeing Aliana reminded Ellie of her high school boyfriend, who she hadn't seen in years. She impulsively calls him, thinking he's the only one who'd believe her about Aliana. On her way to meet him for coffee, someone takes a shot at her. Liam is there to pull her out of any further danger.
 
Ellie is surprised by her reaction to Liam. They had been close during high school until Liam started getting into trouble and ended up in prison. She hasn't seen him since then but feels immediately attracted to him. Liam is also attracted, but it is his protective instinct that takes center stage. That protectiveness kicks up when she receives an anonymous cup of poisoned coffee. Thus begins a roller coaster ride of trying to find Aliana before she succeeds in killing Ellie.
 
The suspense of the story was good. I could feel Ellie and Liam's frustration at being unable to lock down where Aliana was and feeling one step behind as they dealt with the attacks against Ellie. I understood when Ellie proposed setting a trap for Aliana using herself as bait and when Liam feared for her safety if she did. The tension ramped up as Aliana's attacks escalated in intensity. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I was impressed by Ellie's ability to fight back. The only downside was that I never got a real sense of why Aliana was so determined to kill Ellie when it would have been easier (and safer) just to disappear again.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Liam and Ellie develop. The chemistry between them was intense, and neither had any hesitation in giving in to it. However, neither was prepared for the feelings that also developed.  Liam believes that a permanent relationship isn't in the cards for him, thanks to the reasons for his failed marriage, so he tries to keep things casual. It was entertaining to see Liam get teased by his siblings. The intensity scared Ellie, who then tried to put some distance between them before realizing that she loved him. I liked seeing them finally overcome their fears and insecurities and admit their feelings for each other.
 
I liked both Liam and Ellie. Liam's reaction to his parents' deaths sent him down a wrong path that ended with him being sent to prison at age eighteen. Fortunately, he had the intelligence to see what would happen if he continued down that road and turned himself around. I loved that he then turned to speaking at schools, hoping to keep other kids from making the same mistakes. Ellie is an intelligent and valued member of the CSI lab. She has a reputation for successfully providing the evidence needed to convict criminals. She is also headstrong and stubborn, which sometimes puts her at odds with Liam's protectiveness. With both of them, I liked their closeness with their families.
 
There is also some progress in the overarching series mystery of what happened to the Coltons' friend/guardian Humphrey, who disappeared without a trace in the first book. New evidence makes them believe he disappeared on purpose, but they don't know why. I'm looking forward to the next book and seeing their progress.

Miss Rose and the Vexing Viscount - Catherine Tinley (HH #1756 - Nov 2023)

Series: Triplet Orphans (Book 1)
 
An unsuitable match for the viscount
And not just because she vexes him!
 
Bookworm Rose Lennox has no interest in making her debut. She's only in London to discover the truth of her parentage. Her sponsor's nephew, James, the Viscount Ashbourne, is equally cynical about the marriage mart, yet they still rile each other every time they speak! But the sparks of animosity soon become flames of attraction. Still, Rose's unknown past means she can never be a viscount's wife…
 
Good start to an intriguing series. The book opens with a prologue about a pregnant woman running for her life. The narrative was so vivid I felt as though I was there, experiencing the woman's fear and her worry about the child she carries. The end of the prologue leaves many questions about the who and the why and leads into the story proper.
 
Twenty-one years later, the orphaned triplet daughters of the woman find out they are to be sent from their guardian's home in Scotland to his sister in London. There, she will present them to Society in hopes of finding husbands for all three. They are also tasked with discovering the truth of their parentage despite having little knowledge to go on.
 
Annabelle, the oldest and known for her practical nature, is tasked with finding out what led their mother to flee to Elgin, Scotland. Isobel, the middle triplet and adventurous one, is to discover their father's identity. Rosabelle, the youngest and quietest sister, is supposed to learn the true identity of their mother. This book focuses on Rose, her quest, and her experiences in London. Rose is the least interested in making her debut in London. She prefers books to people and plans to become a teacher at the school she and her sisters attended in Scotland.
 
Lady Ashbourne is a delightful woman who is excited to have three young girls to sponsor in Society. I laughed at her stunned surprise at having three identical girls and loved her plan to keep them secret until their Court presentation. She knew that their uniqueness would help counteract their unknown antecedents. The only fly in her ointment is her nephew, James, Viscount Ashbourne, who believes that no good will come of his aunt's plans.
 
James is very protective of his aunt and the family name. After the typical shenanigans of a young nobleman were cut short by his unexpected inheriting of the title, James became prudent and cautious in all his actions. He is cynical about the marriage mart and what he sees of the young women Society approves of. He is dismayed at having three young women underfoot and wary of their suitability. He acted as a wet blanket on his aunt's excitement.
 
Rose and James butt heads from the moment they meet. James is predisposed to distrust the triplets from the get-go, and his tendency to constantly warn them against making mistakes gets under Rose's skin. She finds him cold and judgmental and pushes back every time. They can't be in the same room for five minutes without coming to verbal blows. But underneath the antagonism are sparks of attraction that Rose doesn't understand and James doesn't want. They are thrown together often enough that the attraction continues to grow, and they discover that they aren't so different after all. But James is keenly aware of Rose's unknown parentage, and his sense of family honor resists looking at her as a potential bride.
 
When James and Rose's attraction becomes a source of gossip, it puts the women's futures at risk. Rose and James face the reality of being parted forever if they allow Society's prejudices to dictate their lives. I loved James's awakening to the truth and strength of his feelings and watching him go after what he wanted. The reunion between him and Rose is sweet, emotional, and realistic in that they accept there will be scandal attached.
 
Rose's quest also takes up much of her time in London. I could feel Rose and her sisters' frustration and sadness as they ran into dead end after dead end. I loved the twist at the end that exposed a lie and revealed a truth. But there are still questions that need to be answered, and I can't wait for the next book to see what happens there.
 
There is a secondary romance between James's best friend, Robert, and Rose's new friend, Lady Mary. It was heartbreaking to see how awful Mary's mother was about her feelings for Robert while pursuing a title for her daughter. I liked James's attempt to help his friend and rooted for Robert's success. 

An Off-Limits Merger - Naima Simone (HD #2978 - Nov 2023)

To seal the deal, it's hands off the CEO's daughter…
 
Motorcycle exec Bran Holleran is a heartbeat away from turning his company into a household name -- if he can keep his hands off the daughter of his most important investor. An ill-fated affair could destroy everything, but how can he resist?
 
After a betrayal on the eve of her wedding, Boston socialite Tatum Haas is through trusting men. Love is for fairy tales, and Tatum wants her career, nothing more. But her family's new business partner is shattering her resolve just as explosive revelations put everything on the line…
 
Good book. The story begins with Tatum experiencing a devastating betrayal by her fiancé the night before their wedding. Mark died and escaped dealing with the scandal. Ten months later, Tatum is still the focus of gossip and innuendo and coping with the grief of losing the man she loved and the man she thought he was. What makes it worse is that Mark's parents can't seem to let her move on, constantly bringing her back to things involving him. Her parents are no better, frequently inviting his parents to family and social gatherings. It was interesting to get a look at the various family dynamics. I can safely say that I did not care for Tatum's parents and actively disliked her sister, Mia. Their actions and attitudes drove Tatum to escape from a gathering, where she met a sexy stranger with a penchant for direct speech.
 
The next day, Tatum is assigned to work with that stranger, a co-owner of a motorcycle business looking for investors. That meeting with her father and sister is awkward and highlights some of Tatum's issues. I liked Tatum's professionalism and determination to do her best. Bran is surprised to work with her and a little disturbed because of his attraction to her. He doesn't need the distraction or the risk of angering a potential investor.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Bran and Tatum. Both have disastrous past relationships, and neither is looking to risk their hearts again. However, there is no denying the sparks of attraction that flare between them nor the connection that draws them closer together. I liked how sensitive they were to each other's moods, and I especially liked how well Bran understood Tatum. I especially liked seeing his support as she began to push back against how her family treated her. One of my favorite parts was when he took her out on his motorcycle.
 
Tatum is hurt again when lies and family betrayals are revealed. It doesn't help that Bran allows his care and protectiveness to overshadow his belief in Tatum's strength. I loved seeing her stand up to her father, sister, and even Bran. Hurt and believing that she can't trust her judgment, Tatum withdraws from everyone as she tries to find herself and her strength. I also ached for Bran, who faced the possibility of losing the woman he loved. I loved the ending and seeing Tatum finally free of the chains holding her to the past. The scene between her and Bran was fantastic, and I heartily approve of their plans for the future. I would have liked an epilogue showing their lives a little into the future. 

The Rancher's Christmas Star - Stella Bagwell (HSE #3015 - Nov 2023)

Series: Men of the West (Book 53)
 
Maybe she'll believe in love again
If he's the shepherd of her heart
 
Rancher Quint Hollister urgently needs a sheepherder! Despite first impressions, it's a job perfectly suited to Clementine Starr. Her natural beauty and quiet ways belie her toughness and ability -- and hide her pain from past betrayal. Quint is quickly drawn to her unlike any woman he's ever known. Clementine feels it too, but when the snow falls, she's moving on. Unless Quint can find some Christmas magic and convince her to stay…forever.
 
Good book with an unusual heroine. This is the first time I have read a book with a sheepherder MC, much less a female one. Clem grew up around sheep, and when circumstances forced her off the family ranch, she became a sheepherder. She is a quiet woman who prefers the company of animals to people. Her previous job has ended, and she is looking for a change of scenery when she hears of the opening at Stone Creek Ranch.
 
Quint is younger than his brothers and spent many years dodging responsibility. As that life began to wear thin, his father entrusted him with the ranch's sheep flock. He and another ranch hand have been doing the sheepherder work, but Quint realizes he needs a professional's help. He doesn't expect the beautiful woman who walks in the door when he advertises for a sheepherder.
 
I enjoyed the first meeting between Quint and Clem. He expected someone older and toughened and was flummoxed by Clem's beauty. He has difficulty accepting her assurance that she is happy with her horse, dogs, and tent, alone with the sheep, for long periods. Quint's natural protectiveness worries about her safety, which gives him pause about hiring her. Clem wants the job but won't beg for it. I liked how she made her case and left him thinking about it. It takes a conversation with his parents for him to see his mistake, and he offers her the job.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Quint and Clem develop. Neither expected the sparks of attraction that flared between them. Quint is used to playing the field, and Clem put the idea of romance behind her after a relationship disaster. Clem is also very conscious of the age difference between herself and Quint - she is seven years older than he is. I loved seeing Quint find excuses to go to her camp and spend time with her. As he realizes the depth of his feelings for her, Quint works to break down her walls. Some terrific scenes show their connection and how well-suited they are for each other, but Clem can't get past the age difference. She also struggles with the difference between his wealthy family and her reduced circumstances.
 
I liked seeing Quint try to bring Clem into the family circle by inviting her to a family party. I loved how his sisters took her under their wing and made her feel good about herself. She begins to accept her growing feelings for him but still can't bring herself to believe anything can come of them. I ached for both of them when Quint told her how he felt, and she pushed him away. It took patience on Quint's part and some time alone for Clem to realize the depth of her feelings for him. I liked that Quint gave her the time she needed but had an ace in his pocket to help convince her. His big moment and the surprise he had for her were sweet and romantic. I also liked the epilogue and the possible foreshadowing of the next book.
 
I liked the scenes that involved Clem doing her work as a sheepherder. I knew very little about caring for sheep before reading this book. I loved her devotion to the flock and her strength in dealing with the rigors of the job. I look forward to seeing more of her and Quint in later books.
 
I also enjoyed the closeness of Quint's family. They have their occasional conflicts, but the love and respect are evident. Quint's parents are an excellent example of a successful marriage and parenting. I can't wait to read more about the family. 

One Steamy Night - Brenda Jackson (HD #2977 - Nov 2023)

Series: Westmoreland Legacy (Book 6)
 
Two can play the game of seduction.
But after one night together, the rules are about to change…
 
Westmoreland family friend Jaxon Ravnell is in Wyoming for one reason only: to consummate his fiery attraction to Nadia Novak. But unbeknownst to him, Nadia has her own plan for seduction. Giving in to their mutual desire is a win-win…
 
Nadia accepts that love isn't part of their connection, and after one night, she knows it's time to move on. But for Jaxon, their pleasure-filled night together changed everything. Now he's playing by his rules…and he's ready to wager his future, though not his heart, on the woman he's made up his mind to marry. Only one thing stands in his way: Nadia.
 
Fun book. Jaxon, a recently discovered cousin to Bart Outlaw, saw Nadia at a Westmoreland wedding and was immediately taken with her. At a Westmoreland men's poker game several months later, he announced his intention to marry her - even though they've never had one date.  I loved the reactions to his announcement - mostly warnings that Nadia will not be an easy conquest.
 
Nadia has noticed Jaxon, but she's been burned by overconfident men before and has no intention of going through that again. When Jaxon appears in her hometown, ostensibly to purchase land to expand his business, she is wary of spending time with him. When he declares his love for her and his intention to marry her, Nadia is furious. She sends him off after chewing him out about his declaration when he doesn't know her.
 
Jaxon is not easily discouraged, and after promising to dial back his declaration, he decides to use other methods to get close to her. I enjoyed his end run, especially his commitment to supporting her acting school. There is a great scene where he shuts down a TV interviewer who tries to ignore Nadia while focusing on him.
 
The more time they spend together, the more their attraction grows. When Nadia decides to indulge in one steamy night (her reason is unusual for a woman her age), she doesn't expect the depth of their connection. She's determined to move on, but their night together reinforces Jaxon's desire to permanently have her in his life. When he again declares his feelings for her, Nadia reacts angrily and pushes him away. He confronts her about her refusal to believe his feelings and tells her to find him when she's ready to admit her feelings.
 
It takes a long conversation with her best friend and time away from Jaxon for Nadia to finally accept her feelings for him. I loved seeing her gather her courage and go to him. I loved the ending and seeing her open up completely to him and admit her love. The epilogue was terrific, and I loved the surprise Jaxon had for her.
 
I also loved catching up with so many of the Westmoreland couples. It is also exciting to see that more Westmoreland relatives have been found. I look forward to reading their stories. 

Bodyguard Most Wanted - Katherine Garbera (HRS #2254 - Nov 2023)

Series: Price Security (Book 1)
 
It's her job to keep him alive…
Not to fall in love.
 
When Nicholas DeVere's bodyguard is murdered, Luna Urban takes on the task of protecting the tabloid-famous billionaire. Her task is complicated by the fact that, having already survived countless attempts on his life, Nick feels invulnerable. And, after one electric kiss, the attraction between them becomes a dangerous distraction. Will his recklessness be his undoing -- or will her feelings leave her fatally compromised?
 
Neat twist on a bodyguard story. Here we have billionaire Nick, who has survived many attempts on his life, and the female bodyguard hired to protect him. Nick feels invulnerable which makes him resistant to Luna's attempts to protect him. Luna is determined to keep him safe and it sets up quite the power struggle between them. Along with that power struggle are sparks of attraction that neither can deny.
 
When they discover that Nick's father has been receiving letters threatening Nick's life for years, and claiming that someone else is the rightful heir, they set out to find who is behind the threats and murders. There are multiple twists in the investigation that led to a suspect I never saw coming. The final confrontation was intense and kept me hooked until it was resolved.
 
I liked watching the relationship between Nick and Luna develop. Luna was a strong woman with a tough past who finally found a home and family with Price Security. However, she also holds back a piece of herself, never ready to fully commit and risk losing everything again. Nick also puts on the persona of a care-free playboy, hiding the heart that cares for people and protecting him from loss. Nick and Luna recognize that trait in each other, which brings them closer together. But their different ways of life make it difficult to see how they could have a life together. I loved their open communication about needs and expectations, and how they found a compromise that worked for them.
 
I can't wait to see what comes next for Price Security. 

The Nurse's Holiday Swap - Ann McIntosh (HMED #1351 - Nov 2023)

Series: Boston Christmas Miracles (Book 1)
 
From single in Hawaii…
to “it's complicated” in Boston!
 
Top of pediatric nurse Ailani's wish list is a white Christmas, so swapping sunny Hawaii for a stint on a Boston children's ward is unmissable. Ailani expects icy temperatures…but her boss, Javier, is scorching hot! This single dad's disillusioned with…everything. While Ailani has lost more than most, she's determined to prove he's wrong. Can she do it before the holidays are over?
 
Good slow-burn romance with an unusual hero. Ailani is a pediatric nurse from Hawaii who did a job swap with a nurse from Boston. She's always wanted to experience a white Christmas, so she jumped at the opportunity. One of the first people she met was Javi, one of the pediatricians. She is attracted to him, but when she learns he is recently divorced from his husband, she figures he is out of her reach. Not that it really matters, as she is only there for three months and has no intention of getting involved in a fling.
 
Javi is a pansexual divorced single dad of an adorable little girl. He's feeling a bit disillusioned about life in general, with the only bright spot being little Mabel. He's tired of being looked at with pity by his coworkers but hasn't been able to do anything about it. Then, sunny Hawaiian nurse Ailani bursts into his life.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Ailani and Javi. Because she believes Javi is gay, Ailani first looks at him as a friend. I loved how well they worked together; that comradeship bled over into their developing friendship. Then, they bonded over Mabel, who quickly grew attached to Ailani. Ailani worked hard to bury her attraction to Javi, believing it was useless. At the same time, Javi discovers he is attracted to Ailani. But he fears history repeating itself, so he denies his growing feelings.
 
When he finally admits those feelings, he makes a boneheaded move that makes Ailani feel that her desires and needs aren't important. This disregard drives her away from Javi. I liked the self-examination that opened his eyes to how he let his past dictate the future. Once he saw that, he realized he was ready to change. I loved seeing him go to Ailani and explain what happened and promise to keep the lines of communication open if she'd give them a second chance.
 
The epilogue was terrific and showed what a difference a year makes. 

Her Secret Protector - Bonnie Vanak (HRS #2253 - Nov 2023)

Series: SOS Agency (Book 4)
 
To find her attacker
…he must stay in the shadows.
 
Assigned to protect sea turtle biologist Peyton Bradley from a dangerous stalker, former SEAL Gray Wallace is determined to save his headstrong charge -- even if she doesn't want to be saved. Their attraction is powerful. But damning rumors around the handsome bodyguard's past get him fired. Only when Peyton is kidnapped and loses her memory does Gray reveal his startling -- possibly deadly -- secret.
 
Terrific book that is romantic, intense, and informative. Peyton is a marine biologist passionate about sea turtles and the environment. The daughter of wealthy parents who don't understand her but still support her efforts become worried when she acquires a stalker. Though Peyton refuses to believe she is in danger, her father hires a bodyguard from the SOS Agency.
 
Gray is a former SEAL who is determined to keep Peyton safe despite herself. She hates having him follow her and calls him her "shadow." Gray has a secret in his past that has him super-focused on everything Peyton does, worried about history repeating itself.
 
When Peyton's dad becomes suspicious of Gray, he hires new security and fires Gray. But Gray refuses to walk away and keeps his eye on Peyton anyway. He's not far when the new security fails, and Peyton is kidnapped. When he finds her, she has lost her memory but feels that Gray is the only person she can trust. I loved watching her stand up to her family and stick with Gray as they try to uncover her stalker's identity.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Peyton and Gray. Under the antagonism she felt for him at the beginning were undeniable sparks of attraction, which she tried to ignore. Gray knows he shouldn't have feelings for his protectee and fights them as hard as possible. But when he discovers she has feelings for him, it becomes much more challenging to keep things professional.
 
I loved the real protectiveness Gray feels toward Peyton, not just the kind that comes with the job. Seeing his care for her and how he used her love for and knowledge of sea turtles to help her regain her memory was sweet. There are some sweet scenes as they connect over their mutual love of turtles and the environment. I especially liked his enjoyment of watching Peyton tear into a littering father in front of his kids. Gray is convinced he is wrong for Peyton, but ultimately, her determination and love win the day.
 
The suspense of the story kept me hooked from start to finish. The stalking was nerve-wracking as it became evident that the stalker was very familiar with Peyton's life and activities. While I thought I had it figured out early in the book, later information made me doubt my first impression. I shouldn't have, as I turned out to be correct, but the author did a great job at keeping me guessing. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I was glued to the pages until it was all over.
 
I loved all the information about sea turtles, their lives, and their challenges. The way the information was presented made it easy to understand and never felt like either an infodump or a lecture. 

 
 

The Secret She Keeps - Lena Diaz (HI #2178 - Nov 2023)

Series: Tennessee Cold Case (Book 4)
 
Searching for the truth
Could be a deadly mission
 
Raine Quintero is so desperate she's willing to kidnap PI Callum Wright, the one person who can help stay her brother's execution. Raine raises the stakes by offering a lead on a killer Callum's pursuing -- without revealing the secret she's actually keeping. Racing against time, they must find the answers before one man dies -- and another kills again.

Good book that kept me hooked from start to finish. Raine is a desperate woman. Her brother is two weeks away from being executed for a murder she is convinced he didn't commit, and she will lose the last member of her family. She takes that desperation to Unfinished Business -  a firm that investigates cold cases. When they turn her down, she accosts one of their investigators, Callum, and kidnaps him at gunpoint to get him to help her. Callum was also the junior detective on her brother's case when he was arrested.

Callum didn't plan to help Raine, but she had information on a serial killer case he had been working on, so he promised to help in exchange. They work together, looking for anyone who might know who really killed the victim. Matters become complicated when another case crosses paths with their investigation. Are the two connected, and who is behind the threats? I did not expect the twist that came along with the second case and the danger Sienna experienced. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I was on the edge of my seat until it was over. The ending was unexpected, and it took me a little while to believe it. 

I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Callum and Sienna. Their chemistry was intense. I also liked seeing them get to know each other and respect each other's jobs and integrity, though there was some doubt about Sienna when she revealed her secret. I laughed at Callum's reaction, as he'd already had suspicions. I was impressed by the self-control both had in keeping their attraction in check while they worked together and while their feelings for each other grew. There was a rough patch at the end, but love eventually won the day.

 

Mistletoe Magic in Tahiti - Kandy Shepherd (HR #4875 - Nov 2023)

Series: The Christmas Pact (Book 1)
 
Healed…
by a mistletoe kiss?
 
After a bitter divorce, Sienna is spending Christmas on a Tahitian beach! First stop on her "new me" journey? Surf lessons with blazing-hot water-sports magnate Kai -- and quickly adding fling to her itinerary! But Sienna hadn't factored in falling headfirst for the cautious single dad and his adorable daughter. She knows she can't stay, but will she walk away from a magical future -- together?
 
Good book. When Sienna and her sisters discover that their parents are going on a cruise instead of doing their traditional Christmas family celebration, they make a pact to do something bold for Christmas themselves. Each will go on a two-week Christmas adventure alone to a surprise destination her other two sisters picked. They will know where they are going once they get to the airport - which sounds like a great adventure!
 
Sienna's sisters, Thea and Eliza, send her to Tahiti's Bora Bora. After a bitter divorce from her cheating husband, Sienna looks forward to rediscovering who she is. She has a bucket list of things she wants to do and adds kite surfing when she witnesses a hot instructor teaching two young girls. She gathers her courage to approach the instructor to inquire about lessons.
 
Kai isn't really a kite surfing instructor, but something about Sienna has him offering to teach her anyway. Kai is a former surfing champion with a billion-dollar business making surfboards, other sporting equipment, and clothing. I liked that he was honest with her about not being a professional instructor and that he wanted to teach her anyway. He is also the single father of a little girl, whom he is very protective of. He decides to keep quiet about Kinny until he knows Sienna better.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Kai and Sienna develop. Their attraction is off the charts, but each is wary about doing anything about it. I liked how Kai made a point of helping Sienna check items off her bucket list. Their connection strengthens the more time they spend with each other. It doesn't take Kai long to realize that Sienna is the one for him, but there are obstacles to overcome. Sierra is wary of getting involved with anyone after her ex's betrayal, and Kai needs to earn her trust. She also has a full life back in London as an interior designer and influencer, so leaving it all behind isn't likely.
 
I loved the vivid descriptions of the places Sienna and Kai went and the things they did. I frequently felt as though I was there with them. I also enjoyed seeing how Kai's family embraced and made her feel welcome, including her connection with little Kinny. But when Kai makes a boneheaded move, it sends Sienna back to London, believing she'd misjudged his understanding of what is essential to her. It takes some time and a little pointed advice from his grandmother for Kai to understand what he did wrong. I loved seeing what he did about it. His big moment at the end was sweet and romantic, and the epilogue was a nice update on their relationship. 

 

Maverick Detective Dad - Delores Fossen (HI #2157 - Aug 2023)

Series: Silver Creek Lawmen: Second Generation (Book 2)
 
He's a tough Texas cop…
And he's protecting a child in danger.
 
Because of a tragic accident as high school sweethearts, Texas cop Noah Ryland and attorney Everly Monroe are targets of a murderous vigilante. Guilt and grief have kept the detective and the single mom miles apart for too many years. But now, as the killer targets Everly's daughter, Noah is even more determined to protect the child and the woman he never forgot. Because if he doesn't capture this elusive killer, he'll lose everything that will give him the future he's always wanted…
 
Good second chance romance combined with intense suspense. Noah and Everly were high school sweethearts, but when an accident resulted in the death of a woman, their combined guilty feelings made it impossible to stay together.
 
Fourteen years later, Noah is a San Antonio detective, and Everly is a lawyer in their hometown of Silver Creek. The book starts with a rush of intensity as Everly discovers a bloody box on her front porch. When she calls 911, the sheriff arrives, and with him is Noah, who has also received a mysterious package. His contained the bloody clothes of the murder victim he is currently investigating. Everly's contains an envelope with "Everly, you're next" written on it.
 
Upon investigation, Noah and Everly discovered that there were several other murders with similar MOs, causing them to believe there was a vigilante killer on the loose. As they dug deeper, they identified several suspects and found more questions than answers. Attacks that increased in intensity also increased their frustration as they attempted to determine the actual killer. There was also a twist involving the accident that Noah and Everly were involved in that caused some changes in the investigation. The final confrontation came when Everly's house was bombed, and the killer kidnapped her. I loved her determination to fight back and how that changed the odds of her survival. That confrontation was a nail-biter and had me on the edge of my seat until it was over.
 
Spending time together on the investigation meant spending a lot of time together. Noah and Everly quickly discovered that their attraction was as strong as ever. But neither believes that they can have a life together because of the memories of that tragic accident when they were teenagers. As the days went on and they spent more and more time together, their attraction and feelings continued to grow. I loved Noah's protectiveness toward Everly and her daughter. I also liked seeing how sweet he was with little Ainsley. Ultimately, it takes realizing that they don't want to let the past dictate the future they want together. I look forward to seeing them in future books in the series. 

Killer on Kestrel Trail - Cindi Myers (HI #2177 - Nov 2023)

Series: Eagle Mountain: Critical Response (Book 3)
 
Two decades later...
She's determined to get justice for her family
 
Twenty years after her sister's murder, Kelsey Chapman's determined to discover the truth behind what really happened on Kestrel Trail. When she arrives in Eagle Mountain, Colorado, she quickly joins forces with search-and-rescue expert Tony Meisner, who found Liz's body and has been haunted ever since. Kelsey needs Tony to solve the mystery...and dodge a murderer who may be hiding in plain sight.
 
Terrific book that kept me hooked from start to finish. I've wondered about the SAR team member severely injured in the previous series and was very happy to see that this book was about him. Tony was hurt when his climbing rope was sabotaged, and he had severely broken legs. He spent months in rehab and physical therapy and is slowly regaining his strength and abilities. The slow pace frustrates him. Tony is a great guy but something of a loner. When he was sixteen, he was sent to live with his older brother because his parents weren't interested in being parents. This has affected Tony's interest in long-term relationships.
 
Kelsey came to Eagle Mountain to learn more about her older sister's death. Ten years younger than her sister, Liz, Kelsey didn't know her well, but her unsolved murder has weighed on her. Liz's death had a lasting impact on her family, and Kelsey grew up practically ignored by her parents, who never recovered from the tragedy. Kelsey has always kept a distance between herself and others because of it.
 
The first person Kelsey talked to about Liz was Tony. He was a classmate and worked with the SAR crew. Tony was the one who found Liz's body and has never forgotten anything about that day. I loved how Tony and Kelsey connected from the moment they met. With their similar childhoods with disconnected parents, it wasn't a surprise that their fast-growing feelings for each other filled a hole in their lives. There are a few bumps in the progress of their relationship, such as Tony's belief that he's too old for her. Kelsey also needs to learn to open her heart. I loved seeing them grow closer and open their hearts to each other.
 
The suspense of the story was terrific. I liked how helpful everyone was to Kelsey, from the sheriff letting her read the case file on Liz's death to Tony introducing her to people who knew Liz. I could feel her frustration as she ran into so many dead ends. When she and Tony were nearly run down by a truck, they realized that someone was disturbed by their investigation. As the book progressed, one person aroused my suspicion, and I wondered about the connection. I wanted to shake Kelsey when she went off to meet a mysterious informant by herself. The confrontation between her and the killer was heartbreaking and intense, with Kelsey in extreme danger. The resolution was fantastic and had me on the edge of my seat until it was over.
 
A side story involved Tony's twenty-year-old nephew, Chris, coming to stay with him. Chris initially came across as immature and irresponsible, but as he spent more time with Tony, he began to change. I loved the eye-opening experience that made him reassess his actions. I especially enjoyed Tony's reaction to Chris's decision about his future. There were several fun scenes involving Chris and Tony and the trials and tribulations of sharing Tony's house. I'd love to see Chris get his own story later. 

Dear America: Early Sunday Morning - Barry Denenberg (Scholastic - Oct 2001)

Series: Dear America
 
Sunday, December 7, 1941
 
At first I thought I was still dreaming. I heard an incessant droning, like the sound the China Clipper's propellers made, only much louder, more high-pitched. . . .
 
There were hundreds of planes in the sky. . . . They were coming in unbelievably low, barely clearing the treetops, circling in the sky and then peeling off, forming smaller groups of four and five. . . .
 
"It's Pearl Harbor! It's Pearl Harbor!" Andy was screaming. He was pointing to the column of black smoke that was rising up in the skies above Pearl Harbor. The smoke was mixing with the rays of the early morning sun, creating an eerie, bloodred sky.
 
This was a good look at the events leading up to Pearl Harbor from the viewpoint of a twelve-year-old girl. Amber and her family were new arrivals to Hawaii, and I liked seeing her adjust to the vastly different environment. Her narration of the events of that day was vivid, and I could feel her horror and fear. The aftermath was also described well, especially Amber's volunteering at the hospital.
 
I liked Amber's curiosity and how she embraced the new experiences of living in Hawaii. Her friendship with the Japanese girl, Kame, was sweet, and I enjoyed seeing them get to know each other. 

Three Cowboys and a Puppy - Kate Pearce (Kensington - Oct 2023)

Series: Three Cowboys (Book 2)
 
With a thriving cattle ranch and good friends all around, there's not much Luke Nilsen would change about his life. But when his buddy Noah's sister comes to visit, Luke begins to wonder if it's time to change himself -- and become the kind of man a sophisticated city woman like her would want. Maybe his female bestie, Bernie Cooper, who runs the local coffee shop, can use her womanly expertise and give him a man makeover . . .
 
Bernie thinks Luke is just fine the way he is -- more than fine, even -- aside from being blind to the fact that Bernie is perfect for him. But what's a BFF to do? Perhaps it's time for her to finally get over Luke and move on. Yet as Luke helps organize their small town's Adopt a Shelter Dog auction event, one sweet little puppy seems to be on a mission to help Luke realize that the right woman has been right by his side all along . . .
 
Good friends to lovers romance. Luke has recently left the Marines to return home and run the family ranch. Besides suffering from PTSD and resisting getting help, he is also dealing with getting the ranch on a more stable financial footing. The last thing he needs is to fall for his friend's sister, which he has done. Luke is fascinated with Noah's sister, Bailey, and goes to his best friend, Bernie, for advice on winning her.
 
Bernie is a busy woman. She has a bakery/coffee shop that keeps her hopping for most of the day, plus she runs the local animal shelter from her family's barn. She'd like to expand the bakery but has yet to have the time to look into how to do it. Bernie has been in love with Luke since she was in kindergarten, but Luke is oblivious. She decides it's time to move on and seriously look at dating other men, though she will still have to deal with Luke on the shelter dog adoption event.
 
Luke irritated me with his complete cluelessness about Bernie's feelings for him. It was also apparent that he and Bailey were not suited as a couple. Fortunately, they figured that out quickly and became friends. I was happy to see Bernie hit him over the head with the way she felt, even though Luke didn't take it well at first. However, once his eyes were opened, he started looking at her differently and paying attention to the sparks of attraction he'd felt. Bernie is no pushover and keeps after Luke to deal with his problems as they enjoy their growing relationship. Luke also supports Bernie as she faces several challenges of her own. It still takes the thought of Bernie leaving to make Luke realize the full extent of his feelings. I liked his big moment in all of its awkwardness.
 
Part of the book deals with the challenges Luke and Bernie face with their businesses. I liked seeing how Luke worked with his family and friends to solve the ranch's financial problems. Bernie is very independent and has a hard time accepting advice. This becomes more important when her estranged father, a successful businessman, wants to mend his relationship with her and offers his help. Her struggle with her feelings over the matter was realistic. 

The Duchess Takes A Husband - Harper St. George (Penguin - May 2023)

Series: Gilded Age Heiresses (Book 4)
 
Despite her illustrious title, Camille, Duchess of Hereford, remains what she has always been -- a pariah. Though her title means she's technically accepted by London Society, the rebellious widow with her burgeoning interest in the suffrage movement and her American ways isn't exactly high on every hostess's guest list. But Camille starts to wonder if being an outcast is not without its perks when the tantalizing answer to her secret fear appears in the shape of Jacob Thorne, the illegitimate son of an earl and co-owner of London's infamous Montague Club.
 
Jacob is used to making deals with his club members -- he's just not accustomed to them being beautiful women. Nor have the terms ever been so sweetly seductive as Camille's shocking proposition. To finally buy his own club and gain the crucial backing of investors, Camille offers Jacob the respectability of a fake engagement with a duchess. In return, the tempting widow has one condition: she wants Jacob to show her if it's possible for her to experience pleasure in bed.
 
The lure of such a bargain proves too delicious to resist, drawing the enterprising rogue and the wallflower duchess into a scandalous game and an even more dangerous gamble of the heart.
 
Good conclusion to the series. We have seen Camille in the earlier books as a friend to the other heroines. She is trapped in a miserable marriage to the titled older man her social-climbing parents chose for her. When he dies, it releases her from the prison he kept her in with his disdain and emotional abuse. She's ready to spread her wings and search for the pleasure she's never experienced. Her chosen instructor is Jacob Thorne, the illegitimate son of an earl and one of the owners of the Montague Club.
 
Jacob is surprised at the proposition he receives from Camille. He is ready to deny her request until she offers to help him attain the project he's been working on. She offers him a fake engagement that will enable him to convince the investors he needs for a new club that he is ready to settle down and leave his womanizing ways behind him.
 
The development of their relationship is a slow burn as Camille has a lot of trauma to overcome. I loved Jacob's patience and understanding as he eased her way into the pleasures of the bedchamber. His sensitivity once he understood everything she'd been through was outstanding. I loved how his support helped her develop the courage to take control of her life. There is a period when Camille and Jacob pull away from each other, disturbed by their growing feelings for each other, but when Camille is in danger, Jacob comes through to rescue her. I liked seeing them embrace a new and exciting future together.
 
I also enjoyed seeing Camille use her experience to get involved in the Suffrage movement. Her work with them opened her eyes to the abuse she suffered and motivated her to make changes. I loved seeing her wrest control of her finances from her husband's equally obnoxious and controlling heir. I was also moved by how she put her experiences in writing as a release for her and to share with the broader world. I especially liked the effect it had on her mother. 

Protecting Colton's Baby - Tara Taylor Quinn (HRS #2219 - Mar 2023)

Series: Coltons of New York (Book 2)
 
In a stalker's sights…
Unless they can stop him.
 
When someone tries to abduct Assistant District Attorney Emily Hernandez, even the cool-as-nails prosecutor is rattled. Enter young hotshot private investigator Cormac Colton, who's determined to protect the ADA. Problem is, after a whirlwind week of passion, Colton disappeared from Emily's life and shattered her trust. And now Emily's not only the target of a stalker, but also pregnant -- with Colton's child!
 
Good combination of suspense and romance. Cormac and Emily had a brief period when they were hot and heavy for each other despite their age difference, and it looked like it would continue for a while. After a week, Cormac suddenly broke things off and disappeared. The book opens as Emily is freaking out over the possibility of being pregnant. Then, she is nearly abducted on the way to her office, saved by Cormac's sudden reappearance.
 
Cormac broke off their relationship because he was afraid of his growing feelings for Emily. A bad experience years earlier had made him close off his heart to the idea of loving another woman. But when he witnesses her near abduction, his protective instincts kick in, and he insists on protecting her. That determination intensifies when he learns she is pregnant with his baby.
 
The development of the relationship between Cormac and Emily was a challenging one. Neither was interested in anything more than physical enjoyment when they met, but their compatibility and connection caused feelings neither expected. Cormac ran from his feelings, while Emily's obsession with their age difference kept her from believing anything more was possible. Cormac irritated me with his constant focus on the effect being a father would have on his life without spending much time considering the impact on Emily. He also convinces himself he doesn't have feelings for her, which becomes more difficult as the book progresses.
 
Meanwhile, Emily keeps Cormac at arm's length as much as possible. She, too, thinks about the effect of the baby on her life as she processes the truth of her situation. The more time they spend together, the harder it is to deny their feelings, but they keep trying. It isn't until the end that each admits the truth to themselves and worries that it might be too late for them. I liked seeing them finally overcome their fears and insecurities and look to a future together. I hope to see more of them in future books.
 
The suspense was excellent and kept me hooked from start to finish. Emily and Cormac did not have an easy task to figure out who was behind the threats to her. There are several suspects, and eliminating each one was complicated and time-consuming. I liked how Cormac's siblings were fully involved in helping. It was interesting to see suspects come and go as they investigated. Just as I thought they finally had the right person, someone else came into the picture. The final confrontation was intense and terrifying for Emily. Her presence of mind and resourcefulness impressed me. Cormac's fear for her was evident, and his determination to find her was intense. The resolution had me on the edge of my seat until it was all over.
 
The Colton siblings are still working on discovering what happened to their uncle. His disappearance has them baffled, and they have no success finding any leads. I look forward to the next book and seeing what they find out. 

Lyon of the Ton - Emily Royal (Dragonblade Pub - Oct 2023)

Series: Lyon's Den (Book 45)
 
Divided by betrayal…united by need…redeemed by love
 
Wealthy widow Lady Betty Grey conceals a tragic history behind the façade of the glittering socialite. When her scandalous secret is exposed by the man who once broke her heart, she must act quickly before gossip brings about total ruination. Her old friend Mrs. Dove-Lyon offers, for a price, to secure Betty a titled husband willing to marry her sight unseen—then consummate the union within an hour of the ceremony to seal the deal.
 
Harcourt Martingale, fifth Duke of Pittchester, faces bankruptcy. Still bitter from past heartbreak, he has no wish for a wife. But needs must, and he enters the Lyon’s Den, where titled men sell themselves for a dowry. Unwilling to indulge in the drinking wagers best suited to the young, Harcourt enters a simple game of chance, and wins an anonymous bride who insists that they meet at the altar then proceed to the bedchamber.
 
Betty is horrified when her bridegroom is revealed to be the man who nearly destroyed her reputation, but when their consummation reignites long-dormant passions, she resolves to make the best of her situation, and Harcourt finds himself yearning for the forgiveness—and the heart—of the only woman he’s ever loved.
 
But when the full extent of Betty’s tragic past threatens to unravel, Harcourt must prove himself worthy of her trust, or risk losing her forever.
 
Good second chance romance. Betty has had a difficult life, from giving her heart to a man who didn't deserve it to the things she had to do to survive to the hard-won happiness she currently enjoys. Then, the man who broke her heart exposes a secret from her past, and she is left scrambling to save her reputation. Her friend Mrs. Dove-Lyons offers to find her the titled husband she needs, who will accept her conditions.
 
Harcourt is flat broke, with twin sons to raise and an estate to care for. Reluctantly, he goes to the Lyon's Den to acquire the wealthy wife he doesn't want but desperately needs.
 
He and Betty are stunned to realize that Mrs. Dove-Lyons has matched them despite their history. Harcourt is the man who took her innocence but refused to marry her because his father would disapprove. Instead, he married as he was told and had a short but unhappy marriage, leaving him with two sons to raise.
 
For better or worse, he and Betty are married. Both are surprised that their attraction still lives after all these years. As they begin their life together, Harcourt discovers he wants to earn her forgiveness and heart. Betty is wary of trusting him again, and it takes patience on his part to get past her walls. I liked seeing Betty connect with his sons, and it was amusing to see Harcourt's envy. I liked Harcourt's patience and determination to earn her trust. When he learns of another piece of her tragic past, he goes to great lengths to make it right for her. He won my heart with his actions and desire to make her happy.
 
I liked Harcourt's sons and how easily they connected with Betty. It was fun to see their interactions and how protective of her they became. 

Texas Bodyguard: Chance - Janie Crouch (HI #2167 - Sept 2023)

Series: San Antonio Security (Book 4)
 
She has secrets she prefers to keep hidden.
Too bad he's so good at getting to the truth.
 
When a violent attack puts Maci Ford in the hospital, security expert Chance Patterson learns that she's carrying his baby. Even though she ended their relationship, he's determined to do whatever it takes to protect her and their child. But, as her stalker's behavior escalates, Chance can't shake the feeling that Maci is still hiding something from him…
 
Terrific ending to this series. Chance and Maci have been picking at each other since the first book in the series. It is evident to everyone around them that they are attracted to each other. No one knows that they got together for a short time before Maci broke things off. Now she's pregnant and hasn't told him.
 
I've liked Maci from the start. She does a terrific job of keeping the brothers organized and in line. She is a private person and doesn't share anything about her past. She has worked hard for everything she has but is constantly harassed by her addict mother. Keeping her past separate from her present and future is very important to her, including hiding it from Chance. But when she discovers she's pregnant, she realizes it has become more complex.
 
Chance grew up in the foster care system until the Pattersons adopted him as a teenager. In those foster homes, Chance was expected to look after everyone else, a habit he has been unable to break. He still puts everyone else before himself. So when Maci reveals her pregnancy, he vows to do everything possible to keep her and the baby safe.
 
Matters become complicated when Maci gets involved in their current case. A case of stalking against an internet influencer turns into the hunt for a serial killer. Maci becomes the killer's target, and Chance's determination to keep her safe puts them in forced proximity. I was glued to the pages as the brothers worked to keep Maci safe and identify the killer. I also enjoyed seeing Chance work to get past Maci's walls and show her that they belonged together. I ached for Maci and her belief that Chance and the others wouldn't want anything to do with her if they knew her past.
 
The story's suspense and the search for the serial killer was intense from start to finish. The twists and turns of narrowing down the suspects kept me guessing until the end. The final confrontation was a nail-biter. I loved how Maci kept her head, giving Chance and the others time to find her.
 
I loved the epilogue and seeing the entire Patterson family together. 

How to Survive a Scandal - Christine Merrill (HH #1683 - Nov 2022)

Series: Society's Most Scandalous (Book 3)
 
He's walked right into…
The gossip of the Season!
 
Captain William Grosvenor's body may be recovering from battle, but his survivor's guilt remains. The last thing he should be doing is kissing mysterious maids in carriages. Especially when that “maid” is, in fact, debutante Lady Annie Fitzroy! Sparring with adventurous Annie is exhilarating, but it's also dangerous. Because the biggest scandal of the Season is about to explode…and Annie is at the heart of it!
 
Annie is a high-spirited young woman trying to enjoy the season and find a suitable husband. None of the men she has met appeal to her. We first see her participating in a carriage race against a young man who disparaged "women drivers." After the race, she is invited to a gathering that common sense tells her is a scandal waiting to happen, and she plans to avoid it. Unfortunately, another young woman is determined to attend. Worried about Felicity's safety, Annie disguises herself as a maid to rescue Felicity. While there, William, Felicty's cousin, sees Felicity there and helps Annie extricate her from danger. William misunderstands Annie's role, and Annie adds to the problem with her deception. An explosive kiss complicates matters.
 
William is back in England, recovering from wounds from the war in Spain. He has also recently inherited his brother's home and fortune. William has no interest in remaining in England and taking up those duties. He is itching to return to the war and relieve his guilt over his men's deaths. Unfortunately, he is not healing as he should, which frustrates him and leaves him feeling he doesn't know who he is.
 
William's next meeting with Annie does not go well. She is a much better playactor, as she gives no indication they have met before. Meanwhile, William is so flummoxed that he fumbles his words and all but insults her. Annie hasn't forgotten the power of that kiss and vows to avoid William as much as possible. But they keep encountering each other, and every time, the sparks fly.
 
I enjoyed seeing their relationship develop as they got to know each other. Annie comes to respect William and his devotion to his men. She aches for the pain she senses in him and wants to help him. Once William gets past his mistaken ideas of what Annie is like, he realizes that being around her lightens his guilt. It is clear that William is falling for her, but he doesn't see it. He has been stalwart in his decision not to marry, which blinds him to his growing feelings.  Annie realizes she loves Will but that it is a hopeless case. Matters are complicated by the sparks of attraction that neither can deny.
 
When Annie finds herself in the center of a scandal, William is one of the few to stand by her. I loved his kindness and compassion and his desire to protect her. He goes a little overboard, adding to the scandal. Watching Will and Annie go back and forth over his desire to do the right thing and her refusal to marry without love was fascinating. I loved the scene where Will finally saw the light on his feelings. It didn't happen the way I expected, and I laughed out loud. Will's attempt to explain his feelings was sweet and awkward, and it was fun to see Annie's reaction.