Feasted On: The Playful Brides Series, Book 3

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon: Paperback - Pages: 350; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1178 KB; Audio CD - Unabridged; Audible - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: May 5, 2015 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press : Paperbacks | Obtained: NetGalley

"The Unlikely Lady" [The Playful Brides Series, Book 3] by Valerie Bowman

Author's Book Description : Inspired by Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing

FOR THE BACHELOR AND THE BLUESTOCKING…

Certain that no man wants a bluestocking for a wife, Miss Jane Lowndes is careful to wield her books and her spectacles as weapons against matrimony. Convincing her ambitious mama that she’s content to stay a spinster is easier said than done, however. It’s a good thing Jane is not above a bit of manufactured scandal if it will keep her from the altar, and the argumentative, contrary Lord Garrett Upton…

ROMANCE IS NEVER BY THE BOOK

With the war over, Garrett is determined to enjoy his bachelor’s life while he can, even when it means attending a house party in celebration of a friend’s wedding—and suffering Jane’s notorious disdain. But when a masquerade ball leads to a mistaken kiss, he’s surprised to learn that Jane’s bookish exterior hides a truly passionate soul. When two such headstrong people are determined to remain unattached, can love lead to a happy ending?

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars! Ever since Jane was old enough to understand what she had for assets, she strived to become a bluestocking spinster, much to her mother’s dismay. So, at the age of twenty-six, she schemes up an idea for her to attend one of her best friend’s wedding festivities with a pretend chaperone as a way to get some independence and space from her mother’s social call exploits. However, not long after she arrives for the wedding celebration her friends and she agree that what would top off her independence would be a scandal. Yet, once everything is in place it all begins to unravel and the controlled scandal she hoped for turns into something she never dreamed or even hoped for, will it be what she really needs though in the end?

Even though this novel talks about Shakespeare’s "Much Ado About Nothing" (meaning the main plots are probably slightly similar) this novel reminded me more of "Beauty and the Beast" because I can totally see Jane as Belle (especially with her love for libraries), Garrett (Upton) as the Beast, and Isabelle (Mrs. Langford) as the complete set of angry/crazy towns people. *hahaa* With so many twists it kept my eyes glued to the pages, I was pleasantly surprised with this novel. In truth, while I was intrigued by the book’s description, I was nervous as to where the plot would lead (like have drawn out slow points or have the hero make a blunder that not even I could forgive) but this novel did nothing to make me not love it as much as I did! This was the first novel I read from this series and I can already say I want to read more about this quirky crew! To top it off Garrett & Jane were unknowingly soul mates. I mean with so many similarities it’s hard not to believe they were just meant to be and their blunders as they came to realize that was very entertaining.

I HIGHLY recommend this novel to those looking for a dynamically written sweet comedic historical romance that has a few sexual moments at the end.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : The Unexpected Duchess (Book 1) | IndieBound (MP3 CD) : The Unexpected Duchess (Book 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : The Accidental Countess (Book 2) | IndieBound (MP3 CD) : The Accidental Countess (Book 2) | IndieBound (Paperback) : The Irresistible Rogue (Book 4) | IndieBound (Paperback) : The Untamed Earl (Book 5) | Kobo (e-Book) : The Unexpected Duchess (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : The Accidental Countess (Book 2) | Kobo (e-Book) : The Irresistible Rogue (Book 4) | Kobo (e-Book) : The Unforgettable Hero (Book 4.5) | Kobo (e-Book) : The Untamed Earl (Book 5) | Amazon (Kindle) : The Unexpected Duchess (Book 1) | Amazon (Kindle) : The Accidental Countess (Book 2) | Amazon (Kindle) : The Irresistible Rogue (Book 4) | Amazon (Kindle) : The Unforgettable Hero (Book 4.5) | Amazon (Kindle) : The Untamed Earl (Book 5) | Amazon (Paperback) : The Legendary Lord (Book 6)

IndieBound (Paperback) : The Unlikely Lady (Book 3)	IndieBound (MP3 CD) : The Unlikely Lady (Book 3)	Kobo (e-Book) : The Unlikely Lady (Book 3)
		Amazon (Paperback) : The Playful Brides Series

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : It Happened Under the Mistletoe | Christmas Brides

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2014 | Teaser Tuesday: Christmas Brides

Author's Novel Extras : April News: The Unlikely Lady is Getting Terrific Reviews! | May News: Hip, Hip, Hooray! The Unlikely Lady is Here! | June News: The Unlikely Lady and New York City!

Posted by Valerie Bowman Author on Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Author's Series Extras : July News: The Unexpected Duchess is a NERFA nominee! | December News: Two Christmas novellas and Delilah news! | January News: Coming Soon!

Did you know that the first Playful Brides novella comes out February 2nd?
Posted by Valerie Bowman Author on Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Book Teaser(s) :

THE UNLIKELY LADY by Valerie Bowman -- Read my #bookreview here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Tuesday, January 19, 2016

"Don't walk away from me, Lady Blue." ~ within Chapter 23

"I hope you're proud of yourself, Upton," she finally managed. "You've done the impossible. You've rendered me speechless. What do you think of that?" ~ within Chapter 24

Teacakes and a giant library? She might just stay in here indefinitely and devil take Upton if he tried to forcibly remove her. ~ within Chapter 29

Book Preview :
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Valerie, then please check out her Amazon Acct.

Idolizing In: Sisters of the Craft Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 352; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1175 KB | Expected Release Date: June 2, 2015 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press : Paperbacks | Obtained: NetGalley

"In The Air Tonight" [Sisters of the Craft Series, Book 1] by Lori Handeland (aka Lori Austin)

Author's Book Description : Four centuries ago, in a small Scottish village, three baby girls escaped the wrath of a witch hunter. Today, one young woman will learn about her secret history, her heart's destiny, and the sisters she never knew she had…

With her blue-black hair and dark eyes, Rachel Larsen has never fit in with the Scandinavian community of New Bergin, Wisconsin. Being adopted is part of the reason she feels like an outsider, but what really sets Rachel apart is her ability to see dead people. Everywhere. She's learned to keep her visions to herself…until she stumbles onto the ghost of a murder victim who needs Rachel's help. Enter Bobby Doucet, a distractingly handsome homicide detective who has been tracking a killer all the way from New Orleans. Could this be the break in his case he's been looking for all along? Meanwhile, the deeper Rachel gets involved with the case—and with Bobby—the closer she comes to unlocking the mystery of her own origins. What she discovers about herself could destroy everything she knows…and everyone she loves. Is finding the truth worth the risk?

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars! A little over four hundred years ago, while being burned at the stake two witches (a husband and wife) do one final spell that sends their triplet baby daughters into time in hopes of finding a place when witchcraft won’t be a crime and they’ll be “safe.” The spell works ….

Throughout her life, Raye (Rachel) has been able to see and speak to ghosts. However, when she was five year old, and overheard her adopted father talk about how he didn’t like it and wanted to “send her back,” she learned that talking to ghosts wasn’t normal and did everything in her power to stop. Now at the age of twenty-seven she might still hide her “gift” but knows that it won’t go away.

One-day Raye’s “normal” life suddenly changes when a unique murder happens downtown and homicide detective Bobby (Robert) rushes into her life. In some ways things go from bad to worse while in others things get better but as sparks start to fly between Bobby and Raye other forces try to keep them apart, can they work things out between each other or will their pasts mess up what they want for their futures?

This unexpected paranormal thriller hooked me with Raye’s sarcastic personality, its fun witty plot, its suspenseful ways, and the growing relationship that Bobby & Raye share. Spectacular! This was a wonderful introduction to Ms. Handeland’s series as well as an intriguing novel all on its own! Raye is a captivating heroine while Bobby’s boundless protectiveness and slight insecurities make him one hero I wish I could know. Together these two create a superb pairing that I could not stop but want to read of more! I hope that as this series progresses with getting to know Raye’s other sisters we still get updates on the previous ones, because I just wanted to keep reading about these two. In addition, the plot about the Venatores Mali and how the sisters will go about fighting against them really fascinated me, so it’ll be interesting to see where everything will go next.

I HIGHLY recommend this novel to those looking for a thrilling paranormal romance!

-- On a side note --
I really liked the interlacing covers!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : In the Air Tonight (Book 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : Heat of the Moment (Book 2) | IndieBound (Paperback) : Smoke on the Water (Book 3) | Kobo (e-Book) : In the Air Tonight (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : Heat of the Moment (Book 2) | Kobo (e-Book) : Smoke on the Water (Book 3) | Alibris (Paperback) : In the Air Tonight (Book 1)


Author's Series Extras : SISTERS OF THE CRAFT Series - Overview & Excerpts

Posted by Lori Handeland on Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Book Teaser(s) :

She lifted dark brows toward hair as black as his own. The contrast of that ebony hair and milky skin made him think of Snow White. Too bad he wasn't any kind of prince.
Foolish thoughts. What was wrong with him? ~ within Chapter 2

IN THE AIR TONIGHT by Lori Handeland -- Read my review here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Wednesday, June 24, 2015

IN THE AIR TONIGHT by Lori Handeland -- Read my review here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Wednesday, June 24, 2015

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Lori, then please check out her website.

Made the Grade: Dark Kings Series, Books 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, & 0.4

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 447; Kindle Edition - File Size: 947 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: December 31, 2013 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press : Paperbacks | Obtained: NetGalley

"Dark Heat" [Dark Kings Series, Books 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, & 0.4] by Donna Grant

Authors' Book Description : The Dark Kings are sworn to defend an ancient legacy of dragon magic. But their fiercest challenge lies in the modern world, where a woman’s love conquers all. These are their stories.

Dark Craving
Fueled by ancient magic—and enflamed by human desire—the Dragon King known as Hal can transform himself at will into one of the legendary winged creatures he is sworn to protect. But one thing he can never do is fall in love…with a mortal woman.

Night’s Awakening
The dark immortal warriors were never meant to experience human desire. But when Guy, a member of an ancient order of shape-shifting warriors, meets Elena—a mere mortal whose beauty and blind ambition shakes him to his core—all bets are off...

Dawn’s Desire
For centuries, the Dragon Kings have hidden their shapeshifting powers from the world. But when a mortal enemy threatens to expose them, the warrior Banan must leave his secret lair in the Highlands to risk his life for the dragons within—and resist the temptations of human love.

Passion’s Claim
Banan has been waiting for centuries for someone like Jane. Guy knew it was love at first sight with Elena. Can two Dragon Kings commit to two immortal women for eternity? Or does fate have something else in store?

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"Dark Craving" [Dark Heat Anthology, Novella 1] & [Dark Kings Series, Book 0.1]

Author's Story Description : Fueled by ancient magic—and enflamed by human desire—the Dragon King known as Hal can transform himself at will into one of the legendary winged creatures he is sworn to protect. But one thing he can never do is fall in love...with a mortal woman.

Searching for her brother in Scotland—and succumbing to the freezing cold—Cassie Hunter awakens to find herself in the arms of a magnificent Highland warrior. Across his chest is the tattoo of a fiery dragon. And in his heart is a burning passion that, once unleashed, will consume them both...body and soul.

This is a story of destiny and desire, magic and mystery, warriors and lovers.

These are the forbidden cravings of the Dark Kings.

My Story Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Looking for a new beginning, a woman moves to Scotland to be closer to her brother and ends up getting more than she bargained for with her hot new neighbor!

It’s a great start to this series! I liked how “self-involved” it was, meaning the only danger this novella had was the main characters (along with their friends/comrades assistance) messing up their own love lives. Haldor (Hal) and Cassie are a very sweet couple, who’s story I enjoyed in its simplicity. It was also interesting reading about Constantine (Con) in a “fatherly figure” role, it made for entertaining and dramatic scenes.

Purchase This Story Here : AMAZON.COM | KOBO

Author's Story Extras : Dark Craving - Overview | Dark Craving - Fun Notes | Dark Craving - Learn More About Hal!

Story Teaser :

"I'm not sure if I'm ready for this," she said to Duke. "I haven't slept in thirty-six hours, I'm freezing, and I'm driving a stick. On the wrong side of the road. This is a really shitty day, Duke."
In answer, he nudged his large head against her shoulder. She smiled and scratched him behind the ear.
Her morale fortified--by a dog--Cassie started the car and headed out on the M90 north toward Perth. ~ within Chapter 1

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"Night’s Awakening" [Dark Heat Anthology, Novella 2] & [Dark Kings Series, Book 0.2]

Author's Story Description : Fueled by dragon magic, the dark immortal warriors were never meant to feel human desire, much less fall in love. But when Guy, a member of an ancient order of shape-shifting warriors, meets Elena Griffin—a mere mortal whose beauty and blind ambition shakes him to his core—all bets are off...

Having left America to explore the Scottish Highlands, Elena suddenly finds herself lost in a dark cave—alone, injured, and utterly hopeless...until Guy appears from out of nowhere. Is she dreaming her own rescue when she falls into his arms? A man—and a passion—this strong is too good to be true. It’s only a matter a time before she learns the truth about the flames in his heart. And the dragon in his soul...

My Story Review : 3 out of 5 stars! A woman’s boss cons her into caving on the dragons’ private property and during the excursion she gets herself into serious danger, but once Guy finds her will her world turn out for the better or worse?

This novella was a hard one to completely fall for. I felt that way mostly because even though I liked Guy & Elena’s growing relationship instead of being mostly about them it was more about the storyline of the series and based around that. Nevertheless, in regards to Guy & Elena, I enjoyed how quickly they responded to one another and while Elena showed a few indecisive traits, I was happy with how swiftly she decided that Guy was the one for her.

Purchase This Story Here : AMAZON.COM | KOBO

Author's Story Extras : Night’s Awakening - Overview | Night’s Awakening - Excerpt | Night’s Awakening - Learn More About Guy!

Story Teaser :

Right before he went over the side, she giggled.
"Something amusing?" he asked.
"I was just thinking of Jurassic Park, where the little girl was in this same position and she choked Dr. Grant." Elena laughed harder. "She was so scared of falling, and of the T. rex, of course, that she didn't know she was choking him."
"Well, let's no' choke me, shall we?" ~ within Chapter 3

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"Dawn’s Desire" [Dark Heat Anthology, Novella 3] & [Dark Kings Series, Book 0.3]

Author's Story Description : For centuries, the immortals knows as the Dragon Kings have hidden their shapeshifting powers from the world. But when a mortal enemy threatens to expose them, the warrior Banan must leave his secret lair in the Highlands, risk his life for the dragons within – and resist the temptations of human love...

Jane Holden has never considered herself beautiful. But when the impossibly handsome Banan casts his gaze upon her, smoldering with sensuality, she feels like the sexiest woman on earth. Banan, however, is a man on a mission. He refuses to succumb to this modern woman’s charms – or his own desires. Two of his warrior brethren have already surrendered to forbidden love. But as the danger closes in, Banan realizes that he needs to possess Jane – mind, body, and soul. For she is more than his match. She is his destiny...

My Story Review : THIS NOVELLA WAS A REREAD:: Then (December 2012): 4 out of 5 stars | Now (January 2015): 4 out of 5 stars! Being a klutz and typically being looked over had never felt like positives to Jane until danger seems to slowly surround her, thankfully she unknowingly has one hot Dragon King looking over her. Hopefully, she’ll be able to handle and deal with the fallout once all the secrets are out in the open...

I’m very happy that I reread this novella since it made so much more since while reading it as a part of the series. I still enjoyed reading about Banan and his sweetly growing relationship to Jane, again. [READ MY PREVIOUS FULL REVIEW]

Purchase This Story Here : AMAZON.COM | KOBO

Author's Story Extras : Dawn’s Desire - Overview | Dawn’s Desire - Excerpt | Dawn’s Desire - Learn More About Banan!

Story Teaser :

There was a soft knock on the door, and then it opened. Banan glanced behind him to see Rhys fill the doorway.
"Whoever that was willna be bothering you again," Rhys said to Jane.
There was a pause as Jane pulled both the knife and the pepper spray from her purse. She released the purse and flipped the knife open so that she held a weapon in each hand.
"Ah ... Banan, what's going on?" Rhys asked as he softly closed the door behind him.
Jane lifted the Mace toward Rhys. "Stop right where you are. I didn't invite you, and I don't want you up here."
"I've made a muck of things," Banan answered Rhys. ~ within Chapter 5

Teaser #2 ~ within Chapter 6

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"Passion’s Claim" [Dark Heat Anthology, Novella 4] & [Dark Kings Series, Book 0.4]

Author's Story Description : Banan has been waiting for centuries for someone like Jane. Guy knew it was love at first sight with Elena. Can two Dragon Kings commit to two immortal women for eternity? Or does fate have something else in store?

My Story Review : For the full story I'm giving it 3 out of 5 stars it wraps up both novella's #2 & #3.

Part 1 – 3.5 out of 5 stars, Banan (being such the charmer he is) romantically proposes and binds himself to Jane in this sweet novella.

Part 2 – 2.5 out of 5 stars. Talk about communication issues! Guy is giving up on his feelings for Elena so she can have the happiness he thinks she deserves, if only he told her his reasoning before tensions between them had escalated. Yet, I’m happy I read about their bonding too even if it had dramatic results.

Story Teaser :

"You're thinking of stripping off my clothes."
"Oh, aye. I'm thinking of much more than that."
"I know," she murmured. "It's written all over your face when you look at me like that."
"I thought you liked it."
"I don't like it, Banan. I love it." ~ within Part 1 - Chapter 2

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My Book Review : For the full book, I’m giving it 3.4 out of 5 stars!! I had originally only read "Dawn’s Desire," because I liked its book description the best, a few years ago and now that I've read all of the novellas prior to the full series I feel like I get the gist of this series even more. Plus I enjoyed getting to know Cassie, Hal, Elena, & Guy while getting to read more of Banan & Jane! Very cute, I'm interested to see where this series will go next!

I recommend this novel (and its individual novellas) to anyone who is a fan of Ms. Grant and/or to those who like paranormal romances!

Purchase This Book Here : Kobo (e-Book) : Dark Heat | Alibris (Paperback) : Dark Heat


My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 0.3

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Midnight's Surrender

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : "Waiting On" Wednesday: Dawn’s Desire | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2014

Author's Novel Extras : Dark Heat - Overview | Dark Heat - Excerpt

Book Teaser(s) :

Post by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews.

Made the Grade: Christmas Brides by Suzanne Enoch, Alexandra Hawkins, Elizabeth Essex, & Valerie Bowman

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 384; Kindle Edition - File Size: 937 KB | Expected Release Date: September 30, 2014 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Christmas Brides" by Suzanne Enoch, Alexandra Hawkins, Elizabeth Essex, & Valerie Bowman

Authors' Book Description : Relax on a silent night and dive into Christmas Brides, a lush historical holiday anthology featuring a brand-new story from USA Today bestselling author Alexandra Hawkins. And back by popular demand from last Christmas, previously published One Hot Scot, The Scandal Before Christmas, and It Happened Under the Mistletoe are back to deck the halls in this sensual Christmas collection.

One Hot Scot by Suzanne Enoch
Duncan Lenox lives surrounded by enemies, a MacLawry in a land of Campbells. But when an English beauty has nowhere else to turn, he feels obligated to help. Now that they must spend a night together in an abandoned cottage while a storm rages on, will their mutual passion save—or doom—them both?

Once Upon a Christmas Scandal by Alexandra Hawkins
Lady Ellen is outraged when she learns her dowry’s been increased by her dad, eager to draw every bachelor in England to her front door. So when Lord Swainsbury comes knocking, Ellen assumes he’s another dreadful fortune hunter. Little does she know that Swainsbury has completely fallen for her—body, heart, and soul...

The Scandal Before Christmas by Elizabeth Essex
Lieutenant Ian Worth needs a wife by Christmas. He has to find her, woo her, and wed her before he goes back to sea. Anne Lesley is a shy spinster with no prospects, so she accepts Ian’s hasty offer only for the security it will bring. But when a midwinter storm rolls in, things start to heat up between them...and they might just find true, honest-to-goodness love

It Happened Under the Mistletoe by Valerie Bowman
Oliver Townsende intends to avoid the hordes of marriage-minded misses at a friend’s holiday party. When he meets Miss Cerian Blake, who’s dodging her own unwanted set of admirers, the two decide to join forces and fake an infatuation to keep their suitors at bay. But when mistletoe becomes involved, will their Christmastime prank turn into a love to last all seasons?

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"One Hot Scot" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 1] & [Scandalous Highlanders Series, Book 0.5] by Suzanne Enoch

Author's Story Description : While attending her aunt's wedding in Inverness, Julia Prentiss is literally swept off her feet by a man who kidnaps her for her fortune. Julia manages to escape from his estate in the Highlands, only to find herself alone, lost, and hunted in a strange land. When she stumbles across a naked man in a lake, she thinks her luck has gone from bad to worse...or has it?

Duncan Lenox lives surrounded by enemies, a MacLawry in a land of Campbells. With three sisters at home who rely on him, he's become a very cautious man. But when an auburn-haired English beauty has nowhere else to turn, he feels obligated to help. When the two are forced to spend the night in an abandoned cottage while a storm rages and enemies circle, they find a mutual passion that could save -- or doom -- them both.

My Story Review : 3 out of 5 stars, a woman sets out in the Highlands in hopes of celebrating Christmas the way she wanted but finds herself alone in a cabin/cottage with a stranger who promises to help her get back home, if only she doesn’t lose her heart to him first.

It’s a sweet story. Yet, I found the beginning to be a bit slow even though Duncan is naked then. =0)

Nevertheless, I enjoyed how this story picked up in the middle and how Duncan & Julia’s relationship grew throughout it. I do recommend this story to those who like holiday romances that have hot Highlanders in them!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : AMAZON.COM : One Hot Scot | KOBO : One Hot Scot | ALIBRIS : The Devil Wears Kilts | AMAZON.COM : The Devil Wears Kilts | KOBO : The Devil Wears Kilts | ALIBRIS : Rogue With A Brogue | AMAZON.COM : Rogue With A Brogue | KOBO : Rogue With A Brogue | AMAZON.COM : Mad, Bad, and Dangerous in Plaid | KOBO : Mad, Bad, and Dangerous in Plaid

Author's Story Extras : One Hot Scot - Overview

Author's Series Extras : The Devil Wears Kilts - Overview & Excerpt | Rogue With A Brogue - Overview & Excerpt

Story Teaser :

She picked up a black knight and showed it to him. "Did you think this would be you today?"
He chuckled. "A black knight? Nae a white knight?"
She grinned back at him. "Well, you were naked."
"Aye. That I was." ~ within Chapter 2

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Suzanne, then please check out her website.

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"Once Upon a Christmas Scandal" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 2] & [Lords of Vice Series, Book 7.5] by Alexandra Hawkins

Author's Story Description : Lady Ellen is outraged when she learns her dowry’s been increased by her dad, eager to draw every bachelor in England to her front door. So when Lord Swainsbury comes knocking, Ellen assumes he’s another dreadful fortune hunter. Little does she know that Swainsbury has completely fallen for her—body, heart, and soul...

My Story Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars! A woman, who is coming into her "spinster years," finds out that her parents want her to get a husband so badly, before her father might die, that they raise her dowry and now has to fight off "fortune hunters." Hopefully she won't fight off the one man who wants her for herself...

I love how this story thrusts its readers right into the action from the very beginning. It's a charming story about an independent woman finding a man who tries to protect her from an unknown man. Ellen & Derrick are a perfect matchup, I'm so glad they ended up together! Their romance was one I would read again!

I recommend this story to those who are fans of Ms. Hawkins historical series and to those who like historical holiday romances!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : ALIBRIS : All Night with a Rogue | AMAZON.COM : All Night with a Rogue | KOBO : All Night with a Rogue | ALIBRIS : Till Dawn with the Devil | AMAZON.COM : Till Dawn with the Devil | KOBO : Till Dawn with the Devil | AMAZON.COM : After Dark with a Scoundrel | KOBO : After Dark with a Scoundrel | ALIBRIS : Sunrise with a Notorious Lord | AMAZON.COM : Sunrise with a Notorious Lord | KOBO : Sunrise with a Notorious Lord | ALIBRIS : All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess | AMAZON.COM : All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess | KOBO : All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess | ALIBRIS : Dusk with a Dangerous Duke | AMAZON.COM : Dusk with a Dangerous Duke | KOBO : Dusk with a Dangerous Duke | ALIBRIS : Twilight with the Infamous Earl | AMAZON.COM : Twilight with the Infamous Earl | KOBO : Twilight with the Infamous Earl

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Second Sentence Saturday: Once Upon a Christmas Scandal

Author's Story Extras : Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt


Story Teaser :

"Enough." Her father raised the book in his hands as if he was fighting down the urge to fling it at the nearest wall. "And what of Mr. Neese? What was wrong with him?"
"His right leg is shorter than his left," she blurted out. "The difference sends him into tables, plants, and walls."
She had exaggerated a bit about Mr. Neese's clumsiness. However, she had sensed her mother's meddling the moment the gentleman had awkwardly asked her to dance. She had put them both out of misery as quickly as possible.
"And Lord Rouger?"
Ellen tried not to share at the muscle twitching near her father's left eye. "What of him?"
"Did you truly liken his handsomeness to your favorite horse?"
She leaned forward, her face guileless. "It was a sincere compliment, Papa." ~ within Chapter 1

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Alexandra, then please check out her website.

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"The Scandal Before Christmas" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 3] & [The Reckless Brides Series, Book 3.5] by Elizabeth Essex

Author's Story Description : Lieutenant Ian Worth needs a wife by Christmas, and he can’t afford to be choosy. He has to find her, woo her, and wed her before he goes back to sea—all within a matter of days. Anne Lesley is a shy spinster with no prospects, and nothing and no one to recommend her but her own self. She accepts the lieutenant’s hasty offer only for the comfort and security it will bring. But when a midwinter storm snows her and Ian in, they both find they got much more than they bargained for—laughter, light, and a Christmas filled with honest to goodness true love...

My Story Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this is a sweet historical romance that keeps entertained while allowing you to enjoy catching up with favorite past characters.

Ian and Anne's story is charming in the way that they become friends, to confidants, to lovers. Plus it helped that they have similar interests.

All in all, I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the series and to those who enjoy historical (slightly erotic) romances!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : ALIBRIS : Almost a Scandal | AMAZON.COM : Almost a Scandal | KOBO : Almost a Scandal | ALIBRIS : A Breath of Scandal | AMAZON.COM : A Breath of Scandal | KOBO : A Breath of Scandal | ALIBRIS : Scandal in the Night | AMAZON.COM : Scandal in the Night | KOBO : Scandal in the Night | AMAZON.COM : The Scandal Before Christmas | KOBO : The Scandal Before Christmas | ALIBRIS : After the Scandal | AMAZON.COM : After the Scandal | KOBO : After the Scandal | ALIBRIS : A Scandal to Remember | AMAZON.COM : A Scandal to Remember | KOBO : A Scandal to Remember | AMAZON.COM : A Scandal to Remember | KOBO : A Scandal to Remember

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1 | Book 3.5

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesdays: Almost a Scandal | Feasted On: Eloisa's Fairy Tales Series, Book 4 | The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2012 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013

Author's Story Extras : Pinterest: The Scandal Before Christmas | The Scandal Before Christmas - Overview & Excerpt

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: Almost a Scandal | Pinterest: A Breath of Scandal | Pinterest: Scandal in the Night | Pinterest: After the Scandal | Pinterest: A Scandal to Remember | Almost A Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | A Breath of Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | Scandal in the Night - Overview & Excerpt | After the Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | A Scandal to Remember - Overview & Excerpt | Sal & Col named Best Book Couples

Story Teaser :

Yet still, she did not speak.
But with the mother still carrying on---"This chimney appears to draw well. So important to have a fire that draws cleanly, don't you think? I always say..."---no one could get a word in edgewise. It was no wonder the girl was silent as the tomb.
God's balls. Maybe she was a mute, who never spoke. Or couldn't. Maybe--- ~ within Chapter 3

TEASER #2 ~ within Chapter 5

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Elizabeth, then please check out her website.

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"It Happened Under the Mistletoe" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 4] & [The Secret Brides Series, Book 3.5] by Valerie Bowman

Author's Story Description : When Oliver Townsende escapes to his friend’s house for a Christmas party, he intends to avoid the hordes of marriage-minded misses who have been dogging his steps in London ever since he inherited a dukedom. He soon learns a bit of Yuletide peace and quiet is too much to ask for. When he encounters Miss Cerian Blake, who’s dodging her own unwanted set of admirers, the two decide to join forces and fake an infatuation to keep their suitors at bay. But when a bough of mistletoe becomes involved, will their Christmastime prank turn into a love to last all seasons?

My Story Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! Two people are looking for the same thing in finding a spouse ... a love match but, because of their inheritances, it's hard to find that certain person who is being true ... that is until they meet each other.

Oliver and Cerian's blossoming romance is one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading about. From their growing friendship to their personal worries/feelings for each other, this novella is one that I didn't want to finish, as I liked the main characters so much. In addition, that mysterious cat was fun to find out about, especially when it kept showing up at the most opportune times and suddenly wearing random decorations.

Overall, I recommend this novella to anyone who likes historical romances!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : ALIBRIS : Secrets of a Wedding Night | AMAZON.COM : Secrets of a Wedding Night | KOBO : Secrets of a Wedding Night | AMAZON.COM : A Secret Proposal | KOBO : A Secret Proposal | ALIBRIS : Secrets of a Runaway Bride | AMAZON.COM : Secrets of a Runaway Bride | KOBO : Secrets of a Runaway Bride | AMAZON.COM : A Secret Affair | KOBO : A Secret Affair | ALIBRIS : Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage | AMAZON.COM : Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage | KOBO : Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage | AMAZON.COM : It Happened Under The Mistletoe | KOBO : It Happened Under The Mistletoe

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 3.5

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2014

Author's Story Extras : It Happened Under the Mistletoe - Overview & Excerpt | Dashing Duchess Release: It Happened Under the Mistletoe (Giveaway!) | It Happened Under the Mistletoe is on Sale Now and FREE Christmas Presents!

Author's Series Extras : The Secret Brides Series - Overview | Secrets of a Wedding Night - Overview & Excerpt | A Secret Proposal - Overview & Excerpt | Secrets of a Runaway Bride - Overview & Excerpt | A Secret Affair - Overview & Excerpt | Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage - Overview & Excerpt | Valerie Bowman Books May News! | New Release, Signing, & a Workshop at the RWA National Conference in Atlanta! | August Workshops, Preorder Gift, and Say Yes to the Dress Update! | Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage earns a STARRED review from Publishers Weekly! | Runaway Bride is an RT Reviewers’ Choice Nominee and December News!

Story Teaser :

TEASER #1 ~ within Chapter 2

"Seems the entire house party is talking about us," he began.
She pursed her lips. "No doubt they're agog at our antics."
He nodded.
"It is what we wanted, after all," she pointed out.
"Indeed."
He opened his mouth to speak, then closed it again. Then he repeated both actions. Twice.
"Your grace?" ~ within Chapter 8

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Valerie, then please check out her website.

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My Book Review : For the full book I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars!! These were engaging holiday romances that I believe anyone who likes reading about historical books would enjoy! I definitely recommend this anthology to those who what to read about handsome and charming historical heroes who end up winning a wife during the holiday season!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books That Connect To Some Of The Above Stories Here : KOBO : Christmas Brides | ALIBRIS : Christmas Brides



Authors' Anthology Extras : Ms. Hawkins' Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | Ms. Essex's Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | Ms. Bowman's Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | Ms. Bowman's Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | September News! Maggie Finalist and the Christmas Brides are Coming!

Book Teaser(s) :

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