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loverofromance
Lord of Vengeance is a story that I put on hold for the longest time. The last time I read Tina St. John (almost 5 years ago) I didn’t have a fun time with the story, so I put this author aside, but this ebook was on sale a couple of years ago and its been resting in my nook ever since, and I decided that I wanted to start reading some of the books I have had on it for a while now, but haven’t picked up yet. This was a refreshing change from other historical romances I have read lately. First off it’s in a medieval setting (which I love, because we don’t see it that often), from the first chapter I was completely drawn into the story. I didn’t have a tough time at all with the flow or keeping up with it, the characters were interactive in a way that was very emotionally vivid in many ways. Their relationship starts out with more of an emotional connection, the physical intensity is there, but not way strong at first, it seemed to flow naturally. We see the building of their bond with each other, and we a change in the characters as they face certain truths and we how they handle those situations and these two really pulled through. I can’t believe how drawn I was into the book, and I can just say that I can’t wait to read another of Tina St. John now, especially with her attention to detail and historical context, the time and the people who are described come alive off the pages for the reader. A story you don’t want to miss out on.
For Full Review @ Addicted To Romance
For Full Review @ Addicted To Romance
This was a story that was quite different than I was expecting to find. Unlike most times when I go to my local library, I only had a couple books on my list, because I wanted to just pick a couple random books to try out, and I grabbed this book up. I was intrigued by the set up, the heroine going to the hero to get him to kill her. I didn’t know why until I started reading, and when you learn I didn’t know why it was so necessary she wanted to kill herself, but her family is pretty crazy (literally), I mean some of the actions her mothers takes is outrageous and she should be put in a mental hospital, just so she can have some attention. The whole suicide over idiotic family members, is why my rating is lower than a 5, because I just couldn’t understand that her reasons were valid enough, but if I had a family like this one, I might think differently. I think what I admired most about this story was seeing how the hero and heroine develop a relationship with each other. This story was different in the way that it was from the hero’s POV. That was quite different, it is quite rare to see that. At times it threw me off, because I am used to reading third person or if its in 1st person its from the heroine’s POV. The paranormal element in this story is there, but it isn’t super strong like I was expecting it to be. In fact, in many ways it seemed to lean more toward a contemporary romance than a paranormal one. Both characters had their own unique set of handling situations, and boy was Tony great in how he handles Sue. He is patient and understanding, but at the same times doesn’t allow her to lean on him to much for help with her family, he tries to make her realize that she has to stand up to them. Toward the later half of the story, the plot accelerates and adds a bit of suspense/mystery aspects to the mix and it really gets intense. The ending was better than I expected, I was hoping it wouldn’t be a huge cliffhanger since the next book involves this pair too. But it was a short and sweet ending, I did feel it was a bit too abrupt for my tastes, but I am thinking it might have been done on purpose. But overall a fantastic story that kept me fascinated from page one, and now I can’t wait to get hold of book 2!!
Summary
Paul Cunningham, is one of the few left from their SEAL team still unmated, after his latest mission that proved traumatic for him, he has come home for a break from his busy contracted missions and to face up to his past and find the one woman he has longed for, his true mate. When he and his closest friend Allan, arrive home, they are both drafted into a local charity bachelor auction. At first he is appalled, the last thing he wants to do is to be offered up like a slice of meat, but it’s for a good cause, and if it results in spending time with Lori Greypaw and winning her over, then he will show off his ‘assets’ when it is required. Lori has been in love with Paul most of her life, but he is too involved in his SEAL team missions, she is determined to wait until he is ready to settle down before she even begins anything more serious than friendship with Paul. He is the hope that their pack needs to survive, but he must want to be their leader and must desire to stay and be her partner and not want to gallivant around the world and put his life in constant danger. And she will accept nothing less…
The Hero
Paul Cunningham is part of a pack where most of the members and his family were killed by a rival and rabid pack. There are only a few survivors left, and he will protect them at all costs. Paul is part of a SEAL team, even though he has been retired from the military service for quite some time, he and the rest of the team (those that haven’t yet mated) go on contracted missions, mostly saving kidnapped victims. Paul puts his heart and soul into his work, he is a natural-born leader, and he has a destiny he will need to face up to. What was most fascinating about Paul was how deeply entrenched he is in the story. He is pure alpha male, takes command of every situation, possessive but loving and playful too, especially when it comes to Lori. He has always known that she was his mate, even when he was a boy, he always knew and indulged her antics. I adored how Paul’s character, accepted life as it was, he didn’t shy away from the truth and faced up to what he was feeling. He didn’t hide from pain or joy, he embraced it. In this story we see how he handles a variety of scenarios and emotions that bring more meaning to the story.
The Heroine
Lori lost all of her family, except for her beloved grandmother, and will everything she can to keep her safe. She runs a self-defense and karate class to keep them financially stable, and keep herself in shape in case a threat were to jeopardize those she loves the most that weren’t lost in the battle years ago. Lori is strong and competent but she refuses to enter in a relationship with a man who is always away on missions, she deserves and demands more from her future mate. So she is willing to wait for him to decide when she is important enough to him. Lori is a heroine I loved instantly. She isn’t a door mat, she accepts life with an open appeal, she doesn’t back down from a challenge, but there is one man she will hide from…her future mate. Because she knows that if she places her heart out there, it might just get bruised and even broken, because his life as a SEAL is vital to him. I liked that she is honest about who she is and who she is meant to become. But we see how she also fears the emotions that Paul evokes in her, but I found it most intriguing that even though she fears certain things, when the time is right she stands up and embraces him and her life fully.
Plot and Story Line
SEAL Wolf Hunting was a bit of a change from the latest books in the series, but boy am I glad she is returning to these SEAL members, because boy was Paul super sexy in this story. There is something so different about a SEAL romance but when you add a shifter romance in the mix, it brings the reader to new heights. And boy has Terry Spear done it again, captivated me heart and soul from the first page. It was no difficult getting into this story, and it can be read as a stand alone if need be, I would recommend reading the whole series first though so you understand some other side characters and their relationship with Paul and Allan a bit more. Although I will say the author does set up decent background information, that you don’t have to. If you have yet to try this author out…boy are you ladies and gents missing out on one fantastic author!! She is by far one of my favorite paranormal authors, she writes in a very engaging way, and there isn’t one book of hers I haven’t loved. In this story we see the story begin with Paul and Allan coming home, they call Allan’s mother, who sounds very secretive and having just returned from a very dangerous mission, their senses are on high alert, and they assume something is wrong, well they burst in with military pain and their weapons and Paul ends up being wacked over the head by Lori and he kisses her and thus begins an unusual courtship of these wolves that have known each other since childhood, and always knew they were each others mates. The story progresses with Lori and Paul working together on house repairs for Lori’s grandmother, playing together as wolves, and some steamy but highly romantic love scenes that keeps your interest on these two. It doesn’t end with them mating…oh no the story just begins to get even more interesting, and we see how well these two can work together even if they are hundreds of miles apart from each other. We do have some villains, that at the beginning of the story I wasn’t fully expecting to see to be honest, I mean they turn out pretty bad, on the surface they just seem like troublemakers, restless shifter wolves that have no pack, but we soon see how their motives go more treacherous than that, and we see how the whole pack will band together, and even an extra character or two that Paul and Lori will need to trust if they want to survive. Engaging and quite heart wrenching, a romance that true in emotion and classic in its rousing entertainment of a story that will win your heart!! Terry Spear is winning me over with each new story!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND to fans of paranormal romance and sexy alpha male shifter and inspirational heroines!!
The Cover
Who wouldn’t love this cover, I mean look at that man, he looks scary though right? But boy that body a woman could worship. And the JEANS!! Holy moly, can he fit them well. What do you guys think of it?
Overall View
SEAL Wolf Hunting is a powerful story of the healing power of love, a thrilling tale of danger and passion, a talented blend of emotion and fast paced action to set you off your seats!! A PARANORMAL TREAT!!
Paul Cunningham, is one of the few left from their SEAL team still unmated, after his latest mission that proved traumatic for him, he has come home for a break from his busy contracted missions and to face up to his past and find the one woman he has longed for, his true mate. When he and his closest friend Allan, arrive home, they are both drafted into a local charity bachelor auction. At first he is appalled, the last thing he wants to do is to be offered up like a slice of meat, but it’s for a good cause, and if it results in spending time with Lori Greypaw and winning her over, then he will show off his ‘assets’ when it is required. Lori has been in love with Paul most of her life, but he is too involved in his SEAL team missions, she is determined to wait until he is ready to settle down before she even begins anything more serious than friendship with Paul. He is the hope that their pack needs to survive, but he must want to be their leader and must desire to stay and be her partner and not want to gallivant around the world and put his life in constant danger. And she will accept nothing less…
The Hero
Paul Cunningham is part of a pack where most of the members and his family were killed by a rival and rabid pack. There are only a few survivors left, and he will protect them at all costs. Paul is part of a SEAL team, even though he has been retired from the military service for quite some time, he and the rest of the team (those that haven’t yet mated) go on contracted missions, mostly saving kidnapped victims. Paul puts his heart and soul into his work, he is a natural-born leader, and he has a destiny he will need to face up to. What was most fascinating about Paul was how deeply entrenched he is in the story. He is pure alpha male, takes command of every situation, possessive but loving and playful too, especially when it comes to Lori. He has always known that she was his mate, even when he was a boy, he always knew and indulged her antics. I adored how Paul’s character, accepted life as it was, he didn’t shy away from the truth and faced up to what he was feeling. He didn’t hide from pain or joy, he embraced it. In this story we see how he handles a variety of scenarios and emotions that bring more meaning to the story.
The Heroine
Lori lost all of her family, except for her beloved grandmother, and will everything she can to keep her safe. She runs a self-defense and karate class to keep them financially stable, and keep herself in shape in case a threat were to jeopardize those she loves the most that weren’t lost in the battle years ago. Lori is strong and competent but she refuses to enter in a relationship with a man who is always away on missions, she deserves and demands more from her future mate. So she is willing to wait for him to decide when she is important enough to him. Lori is a heroine I loved instantly. She isn’t a door mat, she accepts life with an open appeal, she doesn’t back down from a challenge, but there is one man she will hide from…her future mate. Because she knows that if she places her heart out there, it might just get bruised and even broken, because his life as a SEAL is vital to him. I liked that she is honest about who she is and who she is meant to become. But we see how she also fears the emotions that Paul evokes in her, but I found it most intriguing that even though she fears certain things, when the time is right she stands up and embraces him and her life fully.
Plot and Story Line
SEAL Wolf Hunting was a bit of a change from the latest books in the series, but boy am I glad she is returning to these SEAL members, because boy was Paul super sexy in this story. There is something so different about a SEAL romance but when you add a shifter romance in the mix, it brings the reader to new heights. And boy has Terry Spear done it again, captivated me heart and soul from the first page. It was no difficult getting into this story, and it can be read as a stand alone if need be, I would recommend reading the whole series first though so you understand some other side characters and their relationship with Paul and Allan a bit more. Although I will say the author does set up decent background information, that you don’t have to. If you have yet to try this author out…boy are you ladies and gents missing out on one fantastic author!! She is by far one of my favorite paranormal authors, she writes in a very engaging way, and there isn’t one book of hers I haven’t loved. In this story we see the story begin with Paul and Allan coming home, they call Allan’s mother, who sounds very secretive and having just returned from a very dangerous mission, their senses are on high alert, and they assume something is wrong, well they burst in with military pain and their weapons and Paul ends up being wacked over the head by Lori and he kisses her and thus begins an unusual courtship of these wolves that have known each other since childhood, and always knew they were each others mates. The story progresses with Lori and Paul working together on house repairs for Lori’s grandmother, playing together as wolves, and some steamy but highly romantic love scenes that keeps your interest on these two. It doesn’t end with them mating…oh no the story just begins to get even more interesting, and we see how well these two can work together even if they are hundreds of miles apart from each other. We do have some villains, that at the beginning of the story I wasn’t fully expecting to see to be honest, I mean they turn out pretty bad, on the surface they just seem like troublemakers, restless shifter wolves that have no pack, but we soon see how their motives go more treacherous than that, and we see how the whole pack will band together, and even an extra character or two that Paul and Lori will need to trust if they want to survive. Engaging and quite heart wrenching, a romance that true in emotion and classic in its rousing entertainment of a story that will win your heart!! Terry Spear is winning me over with each new story!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND to fans of paranormal romance and sexy alpha male shifter and inspirational heroines!!
The Cover
Who wouldn’t love this cover, I mean look at that man, he looks scary though right? But boy that body a woman could worship. And the JEANS!! Holy moly, can he fit them well. What do you guys think of it?
Overall View
SEAL Wolf Hunting is a powerful story of the healing power of love, a thrilling tale of danger and passion, a talented blend of emotion and fast paced action to set you off your seats!! A PARANORMAL TREAT!!
Summary
Ramon de Segrave, has fought side by side with King Richard the Lionheart, has won many battles and proved himself a man of honor and courage. Richard is planning another Crusade, and has command Ramon to stay in England, and win the hand of Isabel of Camoys so he can be a baron and gain her land and Richard is trusting him to guide his brother John while he is away. Ramon is ready to battle, but the battle against Lady Isabel will be more fierce than any he has fought. Isabel is a widow, and using her brains she has led her people and kept them out of harms way, despite having no protection. She has paid off Richard with the feathers of her geese for his arrows. Now she is independent and doesn't need or want another husband. She already had a husband that had no care for her and treated her as an object to be used and discarded. When Ramon arrives, she is not ready for his pursuit of her, but Ramon is determined to win her hand and convince her their match would be true and full of passion. But there is a threat to Isabel and the land she holds, and soon Ramon and Isabel and thrown a curve on the path to finding true love.
The Hero
Ramon de Segrave, is a man of honor. He lost his trust in woman a long time ago. He was once married, but she used him as a cuckold while he was away at war, and he has no trust when it comes to a woman's cunning. He has fought for Richard the Lionheart for as long as he can remember, and is close to the man. When he is commanded to marry Isabel he refuses, but is persuaded to give her a chance. Ramon is a hero that just make you burn. Boy was he a sexy beast...very literally. He is very alpha male, commanding and likes control, but he is honest and true to his word. He has good intentions, and is very determined when he wants something to be done. He doesn't let anything stand in his way. I love that even though he is a hardened warrior, he isn't like many men of his time. He respects women despite how he has been treated in the past. He is playful at times, and is confident in himself and others. I adored his treatment of Isobel, it was so much better than I thought, and I loved how he didn't take her seriously, but embraced her defiance and loved her spirit and tenacity.
The Heroine
Isobel, is a woman of confidence and independence. She learned under her fathers wing how to handle falcons and geese. She has brains and knows how to use them. She was married to a man who used her in the worst ways. And their marriage only last a season, which she was grateful. Isobel is a leader of her people, and has worked hard alongside those she leads to protect and makes sure everyone has their needs met. She is loyal and stubborn and has this inner strength to be admired. What I found most intriguing about Isobel is how spirited she could be and the way she defies Ramon at every turn, considering how her last marriage turned out. It was quite illuminating seeing a heroine that stood on her own (in this time period when most women were passive), and you could see how much she believed in herself and didn't back down from a fight, even knowing there could be consequences.
Plot and Story Line
A Sword For His Lady was a remarkable read and what a story!! Oh my goodness, I couldn't put this one down. Apparently I haven't read this author in the longest time, I have only read one of her other books, and reading this story reminded me how much I love her story. What was most endearing about A Sword For His Lady was how this brought history to life for me. This story is set in the late 1100's, where Richard the I or also known as Richard the Lionheart, is King, and is on the war of the Crusades. I love this time period, and Mary Wine wrote it perfectly in detail and certain aspects of description where she makes this time come virtually alive for the reader. This is what I love most about historical romance, this is what made me fall in love with it in the first place...is the HISTORY. History and romance just go so great together especially with such talent as Mary Wine. From the beginning of Isobel and Roman's meeting of each other, there is sparks and boy what sparks, I was so enthralled by the connection they have with each other. I was slowly seduced into a story of history and passion and world of danger and intrigue, and survival. We see many unique facets in this story come to life, we deal with a villain and his consort, a kidnapping, some battles, charming supporting characters, a small boy who is battling with honor and what is the right thing to do, and a love story that comes alive in these pages. Oh so many things to savor in this book and boy what a winner of a romance this was. It is stories like this that wins me over and keeps me reading this genre!! It is a book that will endear you to a time of war and passion in ways you wouldn't ever expect. I can't wait for the second book....should be a winner if its anything like this one!! I highly recommend this to any historical romance fans or a reader that is charmed by a love story rich in history and solid in her creativity of storytelling that wraps around you like the sun in the summer heat.
The Cover
GORGEOUS!! That is all I have to say, I mean seriously...who wouldn't love the rich colors, Her dress looks authentic and I love the rich colors.
Overall View
A Sword For His Lady is a powerful telling of a love story that has rich historical context, characters that spark full of energy, and a plot that guarantees the reader never a dull moment....passionate and sparkles with sensuality!!
"I conform to what many men in this world think I should on enough issues. On this one, I intend to do as I feel," Ramon interrupted her. He brushed her cheek before lying down and pulling her against him.
"There is no place I would be. In truth, I need to have you beside me."
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Nicholas, has just learned that he has become the new Duke of Gage, and as such he has an obligation to marry the beautiful Isabella Sawford. Nicholas has no clue how to be a Duke, he knows women and box ring fighting, but how to handle a seemingly perfect wife, and dealing with tenants and the house of Lords are so out of his comfort zone. He has no idea where he is going but he knows one thing, that his gracious wife is the key. He is drawn to her, and wants to know more about this mysterious woman who is more that who she appears to be. Isabella Sawford, has always known that she would marry the Duke of Gage, ever since she can remember she has been trained to be the perfect duchess. She has always said yes to her parents dictates. Once she marries her life has changed, and she starts learning new facets of herself, and is captivated by her husband and wants more from her life than throwing the perfect parties and soirees. Will Nicholas and Isabella find a way to balance each other and find happiness that they are searching for?
Nicholas, has always been a passionate lover and fierce fighter. He hasn’t really known anything else. Nicholas is a man of pleasure but he soon is drawn into a world of duty and obligation that he wasn’t expecting to find. Nicholas is a man who on the surface appears to be all about pleasure but there is more depth to his character than meets the eye. Nicholas takes everything that comes at him in stride with patience, he is open and honest and loyal to a fault. I loved the way he was in this story, a rake of course, but a man who is human, makes mistakes, has dreams and is working to improve himself. What was most endearing about his character was how engaging he is in the little actions he does.
Isabella has only known duty, and how to make a party perfect and has been trained her whole life to be the perfect Duchess. Now she is a Duchess, and all she sees is someone she doesn’t want to be. She wants to be more than who she appears to be. She wants to do outrageous things, learn to box and have fun for the first time in her life. In this story we see her character change quite a bit, and she definitely grows right before your eyes. From a woman who is proper at all times, to a woman who wants and needs more and is willing to fight for it. Isabella I liked quite a bit, but at times her character became a bit annoying, because of how she treats Nicholas at times. In all honesty she gets angry at him, because of her personal reason that he has no clue about. But once she shares who she wants to be with Nicholas, then I started to enjoy her character more.
Put Up The Duke is a story that caught my attention from the very beginning. What we see is a story of seeing two people grow and change together. Nicholas and Isabella don’t know each other at all before they get married. What was most fascinating was seeing them struggle and trying to learn each other. We have here a story of two people who are so different from each other, but at times they are perfect for each other in the little ways. Ever since I discovered Megan Frampton, I have been blown away, by her talent in drawing me into her stories from the beginning. I could barely put this one down, and I had the hardest time doing so with this title. I love the way the story line develops and the focus is the character development and a love story that is about those tiny aspects of life that keep you drawn to each other. It has a beautiful simplicity to it at times, the misunderstanding, telling stories and brushing your wife’s hair, or teaching her how to box (that was fun to see). An additional element to the plot was how devious Isabella’s parents are, and their plans add a bit of intrigue to the story. I am interested to see if we see more from the siblings of Isabella and Nicholas in future books.
What a gorgeous cover….I just love it. I would read this book for the cover alone. I love the rich earthy colors, and the pose, and isn’t that male model just beautiful….*sigh* what more can I say.
Put Up Your Duke is a sweet mixture of unforgettable characters, stunning detail, entertaining on every page and will capture you from the beginning….guaranteed to touch the readers hearts. BEWITCHING!!
Isabella felt herself shaking—in joy, or shock, she wasn’t sure. The possibility of freedom, of not having to marry the duke, dangled before her like a beautiful jewel she just had to reach out and take. And her freedom was more precious than anything, since it was so rare, rarer than the rarest diamond. She’d never even had it, not for a moment of her life, whereas diamonds, for a lady in her position, were relatively easy to see, if not own.
Her mother glared at her, as though it were her fault the duke was no longer the duke. Isabella wished she could tell her mother that if she had the kind of power to unduke someone, she would have used that power to entirely extricate herself from any kind of marital agreement. Or maybe make herself look less beautiful so people would stop bothering her.
“Stop dawdling, Isabella. You can see yourself out, Maria?” It was not a question, but at least her mother gave her aunt the courtesy of pretending it was.
“Of course.” Maria patted Isabella’s hand. “I am certain you will be fine, Isabella. You will marry well, no matter who you marry.”
Isabella merely nodded, even though she wished she could tell her aunt, tell somebody, how she felt about marrying well. About how marrying well meant a very different thing to her than it did to her family.
If she didn’t have to marry the duke after all she could find someone, perhaps, who would care for her. That would be a good marriage, not one where her husband’s title was more important than if he was a pleasant man. She didn’t require love, but she wanted companionship, and friendliness, and perhaps a measure of fondness.
The duke—at least, the only Duke of Gage she currently knew—had never shown her any of those things, or any possibility of them, instead treating her as her mother did, as someone to be corrected and scolded into perfection.
Perfection Isabella had achieved, even though she wasn’t proud of it. She had been molded into the perfect duchess, only now—only now it seemed as though there was no duke to fulfill her training. The thought made her want to laugh, if only because it so thoroughly ruined her mother’s plans.
Freedom. Isabella had only occasionally allowed herself to think of what might be possible if her future weren’t already determined; now that it was here, that it might well be her future, she was terrified.
What would she be if she wasn’t the Duchess of Gage?
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Summary
Nicholas, has just learned that he has become the new Duke of Gage, and as such he has an obligation to marry the beautiful Isabella Sawford. Nicholas has no clue how to be a Duke, he knows women and box ring fighting, but how to handle a seemingly perfect wife, and dealing with tenants and the house of Lords are so out of his comfort zone. He has no idea where he is going but he knows one thing, that his gracious wife is the key. He is drawn to her, and wants to know more about this mysterious woman who is more that who she appears to be. Isabella Sawford, has always known that she would marry the Duke of Gage, ever since she can remember she has been trained to be the perfect duchess. She has always said yes to her parents dictates. Once she marries her life has changed, and she starts learning new facets of herself, and is captivated by her husband and wants more from her life than throwing the perfect parties and soirees. Will Nicholas and Isabella find a way to balance each other and find happiness that they are searching for?
The Hero
Nicholas, has always been a passionate lover and fierce fighter. He hasn’t really known anything else. Nicholas is a man of pleasure but he soon is drawn into a world of duty and obligation that he wasn’t expecting to find. Nicholas is a man who on the surface appears to be all about pleasure but there is more depth to his character than meets the eye. Nicholas takes everything that comes at him in stride with patience, he is open and honest and loyal to a fault. I loved the way he was in this story, a rake of course, but a man who is human, makes mistakes, has dreams and is working to improve himself. What was most endearing about his character was how engaging he is in the little actions he does.
The Heroine
Isabella has only known duty, and how to make a party perfect and has been trained her whole life to be the perfect Duchess. Now she is a Duchess, and all she sees is someone she doesn’t want to be. She wants to be more than who she appears to be. She wants to do outrageous things, learn to box and have fun for the first time in her life. In this story we see her character change quite a bit, and she definitely grows right before your eyes. From a woman who is proper at all times, to a woman who wants and needs more and is willing to fight for it. Isabella I liked quite a bit, but at times her character became a bit annoying, because of how she treats Nicholas at times. In all honesty she gets angry at him, because of her personal reason that he has no clue about. But once she shares who she wants to be with Nicholas, then I started to enjoy her character more.
Plot and Story Line
Put Up The Duke is a story that caught my attention from the very beginning. What we see is a story of seeing two people grow and change together. Nicholas and Isabella don’t know each other at all before they get married. What was most fascinating was seeing them struggle and trying to learn each other. We have here a story of two people who are so different from each other, but at times they are perfect for each other in the little ways. Ever since I discovered Megan Frampton, I have been blown away, by her talent in drawing me into her stories from the beginning. I could barely put this one down, and I had the hardest time doing so with this title. I love the way the story line develops and the focus is the character development and a love story that is about those tiny aspects of life that keep you drawn to each other. It has a beautiful simplicity to it at times, the misunderstanding, telling stories and brushing your wife’s hair, or teaching her how to box (that was fun to see). An additional element to the plot was how devious Isabella’s parents are, and their plans add a bit of intrigue to the story. I am interested to see if we see more from the siblings of Isabella and Nicholas in future books.
The Cover
What a gorgeous cover….I just love it. I would read this book for the cover alone. I love the rich earthy colors, and the pose, and isn’t that male model just beautiful….*sigh* what more can I say.
Overall View
Put Up Your Duke is a sweet mixture of unforgettable characters, stunning detail, entertaining on every page and will capture you from the beginning….guaranteed to touch the readers hearts. BEWITCHING!!
The Duke's Guide To Correct Behavior (1) Marcus and Lily
When Good Earl's Go Bad (1.5) Matthew and Annabelle
Put Up Your Duke (2) Nicholas and Isabella
No Groom At The Inn (2.5)--Unknown
One Eyed Dukes Go Wild (3) Lasham and Margaret
Isabella felt herself shaking—in joy, or shock, she wasn’t sure. The possibility of freedom, of not having to marry the duke, dangled before her like a beautiful jewel she just had to reach out and take. And her freedom was more precious than anything, since it was so rare, rarer than the rarest diamond. She’d never even had it, not for a moment of her life, whereas diamonds, for a lady in her position, were relatively easy to see, if not own.
Her mother glared at her, as though it were her fault the duke was no longer the duke. Isabella wished she could tell her mother that if she had the kind of power to unduke someone, she would have used that power to entirely extricate herself from any kind of marital agreement. Or maybe make herself look less beautiful so people would stop bothering her.
“Stop dawdling, Isabella. You can see yourself out, Maria?” It was not a question, but at least her mother gave her aunt the courtesy of pretending it was.
“Of course.” Maria patted Isabella’s hand. “I am certain you will be fine, Isabella. You will marry well, no matter who you marry.”
Isabella merely nodded, even though she wished she could tell her aunt, tell somebody, how she felt about marrying well. About how marrying well meant a very different thing to her than it did to her family.
If she didn’t have to marry the duke after all she could find someone, perhaps, who would care for her. That would be a good marriage, not one where her husband’s title was more important than if he was a pleasant man. She didn’t require love, but she wanted companionship, and friendliness, and perhaps a measure of fondness.
The duke—at least, the only Duke of Gage she currently knew—had never shown her any of those things, or any possibility of them, instead treating her as her mother did, as someone to be corrected and scolded into perfection.
Perfection Isabella had achieved, even though she wasn’t proud of it. She had been molded into the perfect duchess, only now—only now it seemed as though there was no duke to fulfill her training. The thought made her want to laugh, if only because it so thoroughly ruined her mother’s plans.
Freedom. Isabella had only occasionally allowed herself to think of what might be possible if her future weren’t already determined; now that it was here, that it might well be her future, she was terrified.
What would she be if she wasn’t the Duchess of Gage?
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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Lida was practically a girl when she fell in love and married, but then her husband died and she was pregnant. Her husband's family kicked her out, claiming she was a whore. So Lida returned back to her family, mourning the man she loved and left alone to raise their daughter. Lida is content working on her family's farm and raising her daughter who is sweet, smart and innocent. But then Jarl Magnus and his entourage comes passing through and notices her. Lida is fine not having another husband, but she realizes that being married to a Jarl, that it would be in her daughters best interest. So Lida reluctantly agrees to marry Magnus, not knowing what her life will be like up north. Magnus needs a wife, so he can have heirs, and he doesn't care as long as she is strong and sturdy. While traveling he is drawn to Lida who is beautiful and a hard worker, and is tough, and he knows she can handle just about anything. Magnus never expected to be charmed by a seven-year old girl, or to fall hard for Lida. Right when Magnus and Lida are getting settled and comfortable with their life together, there are enemies who wish for power, Magnus' power and will do anything to get it, even if it means destroying their family...
Magnus has battled hard to get to his position of power and prestige. He is dedicated and loyal to his king and is comfortable with his life. All he has ever wanted is to have sons to raise and continue his line. Magnus is highly respected but soon Magnus learns that there is more to life than wealth and power, and he begins to learn what family really means. Magnus is a hero who is your typical viking warrior. Handsome, strong, and can fight in a battle with great efficiency. But Magnus knows nothing about love or affection until he meets Lida Katia. Magnus is very proud at times, a capable warrior, and we see how he handles being married and boy does his life get turned topsy turvy. He is grumpy and has a temper but keeps it controlled. If you like alpha males, Magnus definitely falls into that category, and we see him become humble and slowly change but for the better. We see how he learns and handles conflict and a little girl who wins him over.
Lida is strong and passionate and what a character, I immediately fell in love with her. Just for the sole reason that she handles Magnus and the way she goes about it. Lida still grieves her husband and its been eight years, and you see how much she loves her daughter. Lida hasn't had it easy, she is rumored as a "whore" which is so sad but in that time that is what she would be considered as. And of course they don't blame the man right? But Lida handles it extremely well with dignity and pride, she has a tough skin, and even though it hurts especially from her family, she knows she did nothing wrong and isn't ashamed of her daughter. She stands up to Magnus at every turn and I really enjoyed seeing how she deals with Magnus, because he is one tough cookie.
The Warlord's Wife is a viking romance and what a story. I fell in love with it, and its been so long since I have read such a fun viking romance that really kept me captivated all the way through. I fell for this pair and the little girl, oh boy was she a charmer. She could win anyone over and I loved her sweet and kind nature. And I loved the way Magnus and Katia are together, at first you see how Magnus doesn't care much for Katia, but he slowly gets won over and claims her as his daughter!! The relationship between Magnus and Lida is very rocky at first, and they have a tough time finding a common ground. But you see how that slowly drifts into a bond that is more, one full of love and intimacy. This story was so beautifully crafted, it will win any romance lover over. I almost felt like I was walking straight into the history books, and seeing this era come alive for me. Sandra Lake has done well with her research for this story, and I enjoyed the culture and the intricate details that makes you fall in love more with the story. What was also interesting was seeing some of the other side characters that adds more depth to the story. We have the brother of Magnus, who is charismatic, loves to play and have fun. Quite different from the brooding and grumpy Magnus. Then we have Lida's mother, who is so loving and just accepts Lida and doesn't judge just loves her family unconditionally. I was so thrilled to see the change in the characters and their personal growth throughout the story. It's quite engaging, to see them grow personally and in their relationship. It's a slow and steady one, with a little surprise here and then to keep it from being predictable. It's a romance that is packed with danger and mystery, a love story about two damaged people who need love and to make a fresh start, and seeing how love does conquer all!! This is a book that made me remember why I fell in love with viking romance in the first place.Riveting in history and emotion, and balanced in a way that makes your hunger for more. Well Done Sandra Lake!! I can't wait for the second book..Katia's story.
I love the blue and green hints of color, and it really gives the impression of a VIKING ROMANCE, love how it matches so well with the tone of the story.
The Warlord's Wife is a story that slowly and magically weaves its way into the reader's heart. A love story that is full of sensuality, intrigue, some enemies to destroy, characters you can bond with, a tale of love that wins over the battle!! EXHILARATING!!
"Mama, you loved my father. Grandma told me that love is not in our choice, but in our fate, remember? She told me that you had no choice but ot love my father and that I am a result of your love. Most people do not understand these things, Mama." Her daughter patted her her hand. "Grandma understands everything. She said the same as you, that I should feel sorry for foolish people who do not understand. She says that most of those people will never understand love, even if it bit them on the bum."
"Hush, your grandma did not say that."
"Well, she said 'nose' instead of 'bum', but I said 'bum' because it sounds more funny."
"'Tis an unnatural feeling, " he said through a clenched jaw. "I have never felt this desire to surrender before. I tried to fight, but I grew tired of pushing it down. I wanted to posses you, make you mine in body and soul.
Summary
Lida was practically a girl when she fell in love and married, but then her husband died and she was pregnant. Her husband's family kicked her out, claiming she was a whore. So Lida returned back to her family, mourning the man she loved and left alone to raise their daughter. Lida is content working on her family's farm and raising her daughter who is sweet, smart and innocent. But then Jarl Magnus and his entourage comes passing through and notices her. Lida is fine not having another husband, but she realizes that being married to a Jarl, that it would be in her daughters best interest. So Lida reluctantly agrees to marry Magnus, not knowing what her life will be like up north. Magnus needs a wife, so he can have heirs, and he doesn't care as long as she is strong and sturdy. While traveling he is drawn to Lida who is beautiful and a hard worker, and is tough, and he knows she can handle just about anything. Magnus never expected to be charmed by a seven-year old girl, or to fall hard for Lida. Right when Magnus and Lida are getting settled and comfortable with their life together, there are enemies who wish for power, Magnus' power and will do anything to get it, even if it means destroying their family...
The Hero
Magnus has battled hard to get to his position of power and prestige. He is dedicated and loyal to his king and is comfortable with his life. All he has ever wanted is to have sons to raise and continue his line. Magnus is highly respected but soon Magnus learns that there is more to life than wealth and power, and he begins to learn what family really means. Magnus is a hero who is your typical viking warrior. Handsome, strong, and can fight in a battle with great efficiency. But Magnus knows nothing about love or affection until he meets Lida Katia. Magnus is very proud at times, a capable warrior, and we see how he handles being married and boy does his life get turned topsy turvy. He is grumpy and has a temper but keeps it controlled. If you like alpha males, Magnus definitely falls into that category, and we see him become humble and slowly change but for the better. We see how he learns and handles conflict and a little girl who wins him over.
The Heroine
Lida is strong and passionate and what a character, I immediately fell in love with her. Just for the sole reason that she handles Magnus and the way she goes about it. Lida still grieves her husband and its been eight years, and you see how much she loves her daughter. Lida hasn't had it easy, she is rumored as a "whore" which is so sad but in that time that is what she would be considered as. And of course they don't blame the man right? But Lida handles it extremely well with dignity and pride, she has a tough skin, and even though it hurts especially from her family, she knows she did nothing wrong and isn't ashamed of her daughter. She stands up to Magnus at every turn and I really enjoyed seeing how she deals with Magnus, because he is one tough cookie.
Plot and Storyline
The Warlord's Wife is a viking romance and what a story. I fell in love with it, and its been so long since I have read such a fun viking romance that really kept me captivated all the way through. I fell for this pair and the little girl, oh boy was she a charmer. She could win anyone over and I loved her sweet and kind nature. And I loved the way Magnus and Katia are together, at first you see how Magnus doesn't care much for Katia, but he slowly gets won over and claims her as his daughter!! The relationship between Magnus and Lida is very rocky at first, and they have a tough time finding a common ground. But you see how that slowly drifts into a bond that is more, one full of love and intimacy. This story was so beautifully crafted, it will win any romance lover over. I almost felt like I was walking straight into the history books, and seeing this era come alive for me. Sandra Lake has done well with her research for this story, and I enjoyed the culture and the intricate details that makes you fall in love more with the story. What was also interesting was seeing some of the other side characters that adds more depth to the story. We have the brother of Magnus, who is charismatic, loves to play and have fun. Quite different from the brooding and grumpy Magnus. Then we have Lida's mother, who is so loving and just accepts Lida and doesn't judge just loves her family unconditionally. I was so thrilled to see the change in the characters and their personal growth throughout the story. It's quite engaging, to see them grow personally and in their relationship. It's a slow and steady one, with a little surprise here and then to keep it from being predictable. It's a romance that is packed with danger and mystery, a love story about two damaged people who need love and to make a fresh start, and seeing how love does conquer all!! This is a book that made me remember why I fell in love with viking romance in the first place.Riveting in history and emotion, and balanced in a way that makes your hunger for more. Well Done Sandra Lake!! I can't wait for the second book..Katia's story.
The Cover
I love the blue and green hints of color, and it really gives the impression of a VIKING ROMANCE, love how it matches so well with the tone of the story.
Overall View
The Warlord's Wife is a story that slowly and magically weaves its way into the reader's heart. A love story that is full of sensuality, intrigue, some enemies to destroy, characters you can bond with, a tale of love that wins over the battle!! EXHILARATING!!
"Mama, you loved my father. Grandma told me that love is not in our choice, but in our fate, remember? She told me that you had no choice but ot love my father and that I am a result of your love. Most people do not understand these things, Mama." Her daughter patted her her hand. "Grandma understands everything. She said the same as you, that I should feel sorry for foolish people who do not understand. She says that most of those people will never understand love, even if it bit them on the bum."
"Hush, your grandma did not say that."
"Well, she said 'nose' instead of 'bum', but I said 'bum' because it sounds more funny."
"'Tis an unnatural feeling, " he said through a clenched jaw. "I have never felt this desire to surrender before. I tried to fight, but I grew tired of pushing it down. I wanted to posses you, make you mine in body and soul.
The Warlord's Wife (1) Magnus and Lida
The Iron Princess (2) Lothair and Katia
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Katie Dane has no clue how to run a bar businness. Her father has owned and managed it all of his life, but when he has a heart attack and must step away, her family asks her to take over. She is at a total loss, because the bar is sinking financially and she must find a way to save it, but when a sexy stranger steps into the bar, she begins to get a inspirational idea that could save her family. Ryan, is the one firefighter from the Fireman Bachelors that the ladies go all out for. He is sexy, built and charming, and he knows his way around a lady's bedroom. But then he makes a mistake and has had to take over a year off. But now he is back, fully charged and ready to be a full time fireman again. But while waiting for the Captain to make his decision to hire him back, he ends up getting a bartender job with the serious Katie Dane who is gorgeous and sexy but quite crazy at times. Ryan is brought into a world of fighting fire, only not as a fire fighter, but trying to save the bar, a crazy bachlorette party and a romance that sizzles and burns.
Ryan didn't have the best upbringing in the world. His mother abandoned him for her career. His father was crazy and paranoid and abusive. He didn't start out being a law abiding citizen, but the Cap. Brody found him and brought him into the team and helped him turn his life completely around. Ryan loved his life as a firefighter, the adrenlin rush, the attention and being a hero was a complete draw to him, and he was dang good at it too. Until he made a mistake and it cost him a year of what he loved. Now he has returned making a complete turn around, but what he needs is to be to be a better human being. What I loved about Ryan is his charm and you see much more depth in him than in the first book. The first book we see him as a cocky ladies man. Well in this book he is still a ladies man, but so much more than that. So man was he sexy to me, and had all the characteristic for a good hero. Honest, loyal, and handsome, What was most attractive to me about Ryan was the way he handles Katie, and how he keeps on fighting for her and see who she really is and not the person she appears to be on the surface.
Katie is gorgeous and smart (most of the time), but we see Katie make some pretty crazy decisions. And decisions that I fell hard for from the beginning. What was most likeable about Katie was her personality. Katie has just finished getting her degree in french literature, and who see how she has no clue how to run a bar. She would rather research and study than be around people all day. She doesn't have the patience or inclination for it. When Ryan enters her life, though, she begins to change. She comes up with crazy and wild ideas for the bar, but she is quite intelligent and I love how she starts to enjoy being around people more. We see the growth in her character but there is one thing she does that is nuts, and it drove me crazy at times, because I wanted to shake her. But Ryan handles the situation pretty well. I loved how Katie responds to Ryan and it's very entertaining to see Katie's personality come out at the oddest of times.
Hot For Fireman is quite a humorous and lively romance that had me bursting out in laughter from the beginning. I mean, Jennifer Bernard definitely creates a story that is witty and charming and so loveable even if you want to shake the characters into some sense. There are some scenes that occur in this story that are quite bizzare at times, but very humorous. I had a blast of giggles and sexy fun with this book. I just couldn't put it down because it really won me over. We have the silly bantering between Ryan and Katie, and do they love to argue. Some interesting ideas for saving the bar...that never turn out as planned. We see more delicious happenings from the Bachelor Firemen team and boy did they rock the house. I fell for Ryan's story hard, probably because you fall for his charm in the first book, and you see how he is taken down a notch in this one, and the way he ends up falling in love and it turns out to be with a woman you wouldn't see him with, but by the end they were just perfect for each other. They got each other in the most unique and strange ways, and I enjoyed seeing how well these two fought for each other in the end, which is when it matters most. This is a romance that is witty, strange at times and fun and silly. It had a different take than I was expecting, and it was so unpredictable that I just craved every moment of it.
Now who doesn't love a hot fireman right? This cover is sexy and hot...I love the summer colors, and the homey feel with the kitchen in the background.
Hot For Fireman is a delicious addition to the series, guaranteed to pull you into a life of sexy fireman, sizzling attraction, crazy scenarios, delicious characters and a story that never ends!! A romance that is pure entertainment!!
Summary
Katie Dane has no clue how to run a bar businness. Her father has owned and managed it all of his life, but when he has a heart attack and must step away, her family asks her to take over. She is at a total loss, because the bar is sinking financially and she must find a way to save it, but when a sexy stranger steps into the bar, she begins to get a inspirational idea that could save her family. Ryan, is the one firefighter from the Fireman Bachelors that the ladies go all out for. He is sexy, built and charming, and he knows his way around a lady's bedroom. But then he makes a mistake and has had to take over a year off. But now he is back, fully charged and ready to be a full time fireman again. But while waiting for the Captain to make his decision to hire him back, he ends up getting a bartender job with the serious Katie Dane who is gorgeous and sexy but quite crazy at times. Ryan is brought into a world of fighting fire, only not as a fire fighter, but trying to save the bar, a crazy bachlorette party and a romance that sizzles and burns.
The Hero
Ryan didn't have the best upbringing in the world. His mother abandoned him for her career. His father was crazy and paranoid and abusive. He didn't start out being a law abiding citizen, but the Cap. Brody found him and brought him into the team and helped him turn his life completely around. Ryan loved his life as a firefighter, the adrenlin rush, the attention and being a hero was a complete draw to him, and he was dang good at it too. Until he made a mistake and it cost him a year of what he loved. Now he has returned making a complete turn around, but what he needs is to be to be a better human being. What I loved about Ryan is his charm and you see much more depth in him than in the first book. The first book we see him as a cocky ladies man. Well in this book he is still a ladies man, but so much more than that. So man was he sexy to me, and had all the characteristic for a good hero. Honest, loyal, and handsome, What was most attractive to me about Ryan was the way he handles Katie, and how he keeps on fighting for her and see who she really is and not the person she appears to be on the surface.
The Heroine
Katie is gorgeous and smart (most of the time), but we see Katie make some pretty crazy decisions. And decisions that I fell hard for from the beginning. What was most likeable about Katie was her personality. Katie has just finished getting her degree in french literature, and who see how she has no clue how to run a bar. She would rather research and study than be around people all day. She doesn't have the patience or inclination for it. When Ryan enters her life, though, she begins to change. She comes up with crazy and wild ideas for the bar, but she is quite intelligent and I love how she starts to enjoy being around people more. We see the growth in her character but there is one thing she does that is nuts, and it drove me crazy at times, because I wanted to shake her. But Ryan handles the situation pretty well. I loved how Katie responds to Ryan and it's very entertaining to see Katie's personality come out at the oddest of times.
Plot and Storyline
Hot For Fireman is quite a humorous and lively romance that had me bursting out in laughter from the beginning. I mean, Jennifer Bernard definitely creates a story that is witty and charming and so loveable even if you want to shake the characters into some sense. There are some scenes that occur in this story that are quite bizzare at times, but very humorous. I had a blast of giggles and sexy fun with this book. I just couldn't put it down because it really won me over. We have the silly bantering between Ryan and Katie, and do they love to argue. Some interesting ideas for saving the bar...that never turn out as planned. We see more delicious happenings from the Bachelor Firemen team and boy did they rock the house. I fell for Ryan's story hard, probably because you fall for his charm in the first book, and you see how he is taken down a notch in this one, and the way he ends up falling in love and it turns out to be with a woman you wouldn't see him with, but by the end they were just perfect for each other. They got each other in the most unique and strange ways, and I enjoyed seeing how well these two fought for each other in the end, which is when it matters most. This is a romance that is witty, strange at times and fun and silly. It had a different take than I was expecting, and it was so unpredictable that I just craved every moment of it.
The Cover
Now who doesn't love a hot fireman right? This cover is sexy and hot...I love the summer colors, and the homey feel with the kitchen in the background.
Overall View
Hot For Fireman is a delicious addition to the series, guaranteed to pull you into a life of sexy fireman, sizzling attraction, crazy scenarios, delicious characters and a story that never ends!! A romance that is pure entertainment!!
The Fireman Who Loved Me (1) Harry and Melissa
Hot For Fireman (2) Ryan and Katie
Sex and the Fireman (3) Rick and Sabina
How To Tame A Wild Fireman (4) Patrick and Lara
Four Weddings and a Fireman (5) Vader and Cherie
The Night Belongs To Fireman (6) Fred and Rachel
