received a ARC copy in exchange for a honest review, thanks to Edelweiss and Avon Books.
The Duke's Guide To Correct Behavior, is the first book of the latest series by Megan Frampton...who is a new author to me. I will say that I was very impressed with this title....it had so much in it that I am looking for in a Regency Historical Romance, and in a solid and balanced story. The first thing that drew me to this story, was the idea of a hired governess. I always love a governess theme to a story, I always have, it's a style of a story that is so easy to relate with, and I had no problems connecting with the main characters of the story.

In this book, we have the hero: the Duke of Rutherford, Marcus is quite the character. I just adored him from page one. At first he appears to be your average rake who loves his drinking and his women and parties. But when he learns that his daughter's mother, has passed away, and that his child has no one to care for her, he steps in and takes responsibility. The first thing he does is hire a governess, Miss Lily Russell. Lily and her friends are trying to build up a business of governesses, and aiding women that need help. Lily going to work as a governess for a Duke is one sure way to get their business going. Lily feels a attraction the Marcus right away, but she also feels a emotional connection to her charge, a sweet little girl who just needs some loving.

There are quite a few things about this book that I really loved. The first thing was the family bond these three seem to form from the get go. There was such a charming tone to this story and the way Lily and Marcus are with each other. Marcus isn't your normal rake...I just adored him. At first he seems to be a scoundrel, but the moment that his daughter enters his life, his whole outlook changes. Marcus was never supposed to be the Duke, and was always treated as second best. But now he is a Duke, with more power than he knows what to do with. In this story, we a man that is honorable and dedicated fully to his daughter. When he starts to spending more time with Lily, there is desire, but we see a strong emotional side to their relationship form at the same time--which is not your average regency theme in any way. I loved seeing the balance of the plot, and how everything comes together in a perfectly good way. What I also liked was how devoted Marcus is to Lily, and it was quite riveting seeing this story evolve.

Overall a charming and sweet romance that won my heart. A story that is a delightful mix of witty characters, a gentle flow to the plot, a book that will pull the reader, and touch their hearts. WELL DONE!!

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Summary 

Edward Westover, never thought that he would become the next Duke. But when his brother and his wife are killed, he is brought back from fighting the war, to deal with his grief and new responsibilities and getting justice for the man that killed his brother and friend. His plan is to ruin this man and control his finances the rest of his life. What he didn't count on is that he had a daughter, and a innocent one at that. Kate Benton, has lived in the home she inherited from her grandparents and taking care of the tenants any way she could, with an absent father most of the time. She is shocked with a Duke comes to inform her of change of circumstances and that he is now her guardian and that her own father signed away all of his rights. What she never expected was to fall in love with Edward but both of them realize that trust is key and mistakes are made where Kate will need to prove how genuine her feelings are for Edward, and Edward will need to learn to let go of the past to keep what Kate offers...

The Hero 

Edward was content with his life as a soldier. He lost the woman he thought he loved to his own brother who wanted wealth and prestige more than she wanted him. Edward vowed to never fall in love again. But he is shocked when he meets the beautiful and feisty Kate Benton, the daughter of his enemy. He never thought he could have feelings for a woman ever again, but when she hurts him unknowingly, he locks away his heart for good. Edward is a man that that is prideful and strong. He does what is necessary and doesn't feel its necessary to apologize to anyone. I had such a fun time with his character---he could be quite outrageous at times, and a bit alpha at times that sends chills down the spine. But I truly loved seeing his character learn some painful truths and let himself accept  love again.

The Heroine 

Kate Benton is a heroine I could stand behind 100%. What I really liked about Kate was seeing her character shine through the whole story and I love how devoted she is to Edward. Now she does make some mistakes, but its more out of love than anything else so I felt more understanding on the reasons behind those mistakes. I love how true she is to the people she cares for. She has been studying healing and herbs to help her tenants who don't have a doctor nearby. What I really admired about her character was how she stands up to Edward. Even when things between them take a turn, you see how she never loses faith in him. Love that.

Plot and Story Line 

Dukes Are Forever is the debut novel of a exciting series by Harrington. This was my first time trying this author out and I can tell you it won't be my last. I truly loved this book and I honestly couldn't put it down which really surprised me. I love finding these authors that write some great books you don't expect. I never know if I am going to love it or not when it comes to Regency. But Anna Harrington really did wonders with this story. The story is quite compelling and I found their chemistry quite sweet and engaging It wasn't too complicated in the beginning. They act upon their feelings, and with the hero being her "guardian" we see how they don't have to worry as much about chaperones and get to enjoy being together for a while. And man we get some sexy times going on between these two. But then their relationship goes down hill when a small secret and misunderstanding occurs. Now the hero does overact a bit, but you understand why with his history with women which isn't very good. But our heroine, is so understanding about it. She doesn't become mean or bitter or lash out cruely. She is patient with him and gives him time. I truly adore a heroine that doesn't overeact, and is more understanding even when she isn't treated the best. That shows true character and she definitely proves herself in this story.

The Cover 

WHAT a beautiful cover...the dress is breathtaking. I just love the color of teal  and gold here and what a classy backdrop with the stairway and flowers. I LOVE her hair too.

Overall View 

Dukes Are Forever is a sweet and sassy romance that has a vibrant vibe and is truly romantic from beginning to end!!

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This is the second in the creed men trilogy, and I truly loved Dylan about as much as I loved Logan. It start out in Las Vegas, Nevada. Where Dylan comes out to his truck, and finds his two year old daughter "Bonnie", furious that she was left alone; he then finds a note from Sharlene saying that she can't keep Bonnie anymore and that she is heading out with her current boyfriend. He decides that he is going to learn to take good care of his daughter (since Sharlene hardly let him see "Bonnie" so he really has no idea what he is doing) and heads to Stillwater Springs Ranch.
Kristy Madison is the town librarian, feeling all alone in the world with her parents having been dead for some time, and the only man she has ever truly loved broke her heart when she was younger. She sometimes feels like she is going to be a spinster; but has a good life for herself. Then one day Dylan Creed strolls into her library for story time with a toddler in his arms. Kristy is utterly speechless. Its been years since she has seen Dylan Creed, and never thought that she would see him anytime soon.
Dylan with his responsiblities to his daughter, is yet still drawn to the beautiful, sexy, librarian. Kristy, knows she needs more than what she currently has. She yearns for love and a home and children of her own. "Bonnie totally captivates Kristy' attention, and soon Kristy's is enchanted by her acceptance and innocence that a young child possess. There is also strange mysterious things happening around Stillwater Springs, a mystery that both Kristy and Dylan are willing to solve. With questions being aroused about Kristy and Dylan's father, feelings begin to develop again between Kristy and Dylan.

I was totally enthralled by this particular story of Millers. Ever since I have read Logan's story, I have looked forward to reading Dylan's, and it didn't disappoint. Of course whenever I read one of Linda Lael's Millers books; I rarely get disappointed. Dylan's Story is loaded with intrigue, passionate embraces, and a tender strengthening love that develops between Dylan and Kristy. I could barely put it down, and endearingly fell in love with the story. There were only a few things that I didn't feel worked right within the story line, but other than a few minor details, it was a very exciting and enjoyable read.

Gillian, Lady Wright, after falling in love with Brian Rason, the Earl of Wright, then marries him only to find out that he loves another and plans to leave her to go to Europe to fight in the war and take the woman he loves as his mistress. Now she is ready to take a lover, a hansome spaniard who stirs up her heart, and she knows that she can find happiness with him. Brian has returned to London, and has been sending her requests to return to his side, however after all the years he has ignored her, she plans on the doing the same to him as well. But then he comes to her to take her home with him. Brian, Earl of Wright, after finding out that his mistress betrayed him, and left behind a situation where he will need his wife's help, he goes to her to bring her to London, because he is at a loss at what to do, and knows that she is the only one that can help him, despite all the hurt he has caused her. But Brian has only one month to prove to Gillian, his love for her, and to have her feel the same in return. The Earl Claims His Wife by Cathy Maxwell is a wonderfully written love story, that stir up emotions in any reader. This is the second installment of the Scandals and Seduction series. As with most of Cathy Maxwwell's novels, I found this to be a intriguing and romantic read, that had me cheering for both of the main characters. We have the hero, who is fighting for the life of a innocent and the heroine, who yearns for love and children. So when she agree's to the one month agreement, she never realized that her heart would once more be threatened by Brian, knowing that she can't resist his charms or his heart. The Earl Claims His Wife was a wonderful romance, a well written story, with endearing characters.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Summary 

Harrison Thornwick, never imagined that he would lose his brother and his family to a disease and the family manor practically burned down to the ground. Harrison hasn't had to live a life of responsibility to now. So he sets aside his gambling, drinking and carousing to do what needs to be done. But while in the process of rebuilding, the prince gives him an ultimatuum marry the woman he has in mind or be tossed in prison for a duel he had no choice but to participate in. Miss Angelina Rule, is a true lady, but also has other interests. She is shocked to learn that her father, has huge gambling debts and in order to keep him from debtor's prison and having herself and her grandmother tossed in the street, she must marry the Earl of Thornwick even though her heart is set on another. Harrison knows that he will have to be persistent, patient and understanding when winning over the lovely Angelina. He knows she is set on another man, but he is determined to prove to her of his genuine feelings for her.

The Hero 

Harrison Thornwick has lost his whole family though various circumstances. He never thought he would become the earl when he was the fourth son. Harrison admits that he spends too much time with the pleasures that the city has to offer and not enough spending time with his family. He lost the woman he loved when she loved another man...his brother. And now that they have died, three months later he is still struggling with his grief and rebuilding the family manor. And just to add more weight upon his shoulders, he has no choice but to marry and he doesn't even get to choose his own bride. But when Harrison meets Angelina he is spellbound by her. She is fascinating, beautiful and everything he could ever want in a bride. I truly adored Harrison, he comes off as a bad boy at times but he is so much more than that. He has some hidden depths and it was quite revealing to see them come out. He is a man that likes his own way in things, he isn't afraid of some competition but is still honorable.

Though I'm seldom a gentleman, I do on few occasions decide to be one. I wanted to let you know I can be a gentleman. I can, at times, follow the rules and do the right thing, but it is never as easy, enticing or satisfying as doing what's forbidden

The Heroine 

Angelina is a heroine I just gravitated to instantly....honestly I think I could have been friends with her in another life. She lost her mom when she was younger and has been taught by her grandmother the social graces to get her ready for her first season. Her father she loves, and will do anything to help him. The past three years she has been in love with a military officer. Angelina loves to paint and help out stray dogs. I love her kind heart and the ways she goes about to help her father and she does get a bit creative in helping him with his debts so that she can marry the man she wants. I did enjoy her quite a bit, and even though she was a bit naive on occasion I did feel that she was realistic.

Plot and Story Line 

The Earl Claims a Bride is a book I have had on my reader for over a year now and I still can't believe I waited so long to read this one. But whew am I glad that I picked this one up especially since its my first book from this author. First off I want to point out that this book can be read as a stand alone. The series is based on three friends from Eton and their own stories. So its loosely connected but not too much though although, I am intrigued by the two friends and I can't wait to get my hands on the other two books.

Now this book sets off with seeing our hero get the horrible news from his family following a duel he didn't even want to participate in. What I noticed first off from him, though, was how honorable he is. He doesn't let anger or frustration get the better of him. The author here really pulled me in quite quickly with this book. Then we get to our heroine and seeing her save another stray that is a puppy and been injured. We see her kind nature from the beginning and I loved her personality. We do get a little mix of the love triangle trope. Now first off we know who is the obvious man she will eventually pick but we have an added complication---an injured officer of the military who pursues her at the same time. Now his situation really melted my heart, because he lost his eye and has some scarring and she is the only one that sees him beneath the injury. He is full of anger though because of what has happened to him. But Angelina handles him so well. We see that she has great chemistry with Harrison and doesn't have the same feelings that she used to have and realizes the difference between love and an infatuation. Amelia Grey really handled this aspect of the story very well. The only issue I had with the story was the actual romance between Harrison and Angelina. I didn't feel as involved as I wanted to, it felt a bit off balanced in moments. However, I did enjoy this story quite a bit: sweet and fun and definitely want to pick up the other books.

The Cover 

What a cover....I just love everything about it. I love the pose here, its different from the norm you usually see in HR. I like the sitting down set, and I love the tone of colors. And her dress is so gorgeous....the cover is sexy yet tender too.

Overall View 

The Earl Claims A Bride is a sweet love story that engages the reader and pulls them into a ride of charm and sensuality.



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Pippa used to be childhood friends with Gregory Sherwood, but when she tries to protect him from seeing his best friends having a affair with his fiancee, he never forgave her. Now Gregory has returned, and Pippa has yet to forget him or the passionate kiss they shared. However Pippa has her own dreams of being a sugar sculptural and to go to Paris to learn the craft. When she has a near mishap with a man who tries to force her into marriage, she escapes only to find herself rescued by none other than Gregory. Gregory is working on becoming a architect, recently returned from America, he has plans for hims. Those specific plans do not include rescuing Pippa from a dangerous situation. At first he plans on returning her to her aunt and uncle, but there is something that keeps him from doing so. He has always cared about Pippa, but there is a certain quality that draws him to her, and he can't resist keeping her at his side, and this time he wants forever with her.
Its has been quite some time since I have been able to read anything from this author, but I have to say after reading this I remember why I liked her writing style and her endearing stories so much. The Earl is Mine is the second in the House of Brady series (which the family, at least names wise, is based on the "Brady Bunch" which is a very unique twist to things). There was also a certain twist to circumstances, that I almost didn't see coming. I have always loved Kramer's voice, its so enchanting with the type of stories that are set in Regency England but give it a fresh and spirited spin that makes the stories come alive. I found I enjoyed Pippa as the heroine. She has a high spirited nature, and is willing to do whatever it takes to make her dreams come true. She was very easy to like and even relate to in a personal way. Gregory I fell in love with instantly, he is charming, and brooding at times, but I just couldn't resist my liking him in any way, despite how frustrated I came at times with him, but he is a male, so I forgive him anyway. There was also such a enjoyable flair for the dramatics at times between Gregory and Pippa that made it a delightful ride of witty humor, sensual passion, and an appealing story line that instantly draws you into her clever style of writing that makes you fall in love from the first page. Plus a few surprised here and there that definitely sent a shiver down my spine (but in a very Good way :) Such a charming and witty read that had me captivated from the first to the last page.

Favorite Quote
"I'm not going to surrender, no matter what. So what are we going to do for ten minutes?"
Oh, he knew it was wrong. But she annoyed him mightily, the stubborn little spitfire, and he was cold and tired--and she looked outrageous in that cravat. So he yanked one end loosed and pulled her toward him. "We're going to kiss each other," he murmured, "and you're going to like it."

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

Summary

Many years ago, Edward and Julia shared a passionate kiss in a garden once upon a time, but despite the passion they felt...it went no where when Julia married his brother and twin, the Earl of Greyling. For years, both Edward and Julia have been avoiding the truth and acting like they hate each other when in reality that is far from the truth. But when Edward and his brother go on a trip, his brother dies trying to save his life and asks one final request: Be the Earl of Greyling, until Julia gives birth. At first, Edward is resistant to the idea of keeping such a secret from Julia, but he won't risk her losing her child. But as Edward tries to act the part of a loving and dutiful husband, he can't deny what changes between them. But will Julia despise Edward when the truth is revealed?

The Hero

Edward, has always had to act the wild and crazy of the brothers to hide his true feelings from Julia. He would never betray his brother by attempting anything, and even though Edward hid it well over the years, his brother saw right through him and always attempted to make him feel welcome no matter the circumstance. Edward is the type of person that does what it takes and is willing to suffer the consequences. He is loyal, strong and committed. It was quite interesting to see such a "bad boy" type end up being so honorable in the end. It definitely wasn't an aspect I was expecting but thoroughly enjoyed.

The Heroine

Julia is a character that I truly enjoyed seeing through the story. I did admire so many things about her. She is kind and gracious and affectionate. I love how true she was to herself and her commitments in life. She hasn't had a easy time of it, but she is quite loyal to her husband. And yeah when the truth is revealed, we see a different side to Julia. Fiery and passionate and very angry. Which is quite understandable, but we see how she handles grief, and wow I felt like I could relate with her on many levels. Because she isn't miss perfect, as she appears to be in the beginning of the story. We see her vulnerabilities and her strengths. The author really balanced that out.

Plot and Story Line

I have no idea why it took me so long to read this, mostly due to the set up of the story with our hero posing as our heroines dead husband. It really threw me off from picking it up even though Heath is one of my favorites, I honestly didn't know what to expect from this. So thank goodness for library books---hooyah. I had a blast of a time with this book and was so different from anything else I have read from this author. Not exactly in a positive or negative way--just very different. I definitely had to keep an open mind while reading this book. We see the way these two handle the situation they find themselves in. I honestly don't blame the hero in the beginning...at all. Because we see how tormented he is by agreeing with his brothers dying wish. I can understand the reasons behind it. What I didn't agree with, was seeing how he kept lying to her...long after she has her baby. It was quite interesting to see the way that these two handled their differences and even though for a little while...its pretty tense while they work through their issues but once they resolve it---their relationship just grows in such a beautiful way and I was cheering for both of them. It was heartbreaking at times, lighthearted and freeing in others and simply a well balanced romance that has me eager for more.

The Cover

What a beautiful cover...I just ADORE her dress. You rarely see black in romance covers, and it fits the theme of the story so well. And FYI I just had to share the stepback. So gorgeous and what a tender sexy pose. It has such a solemn but vibrant feel to it.

Overall View

The Earl Takes All is a creative romance that will take you down a different route...a tale of sacrifice, devotion and love.

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Unable to resist, he pushed her back, pressing her against the hard wall of the tower as he deepened the kiss while the scent of her–chamomile and lemons–assaulted his senses. She murmured something, her lips parting as she did so, and he took advantage, dipping his tongue inside to sample her warmth. She was exquisite–sweet like nectar. And her body…it was slim and delicate, but ever so soft against his own firmness, offering him the comfort that he so dearly craves.

Lord Woodford had awoken something inside her–a yearning she hadn’t felt in years, not just to be held…touched…kissed by a man who wanted her in return, but to be appreciated for the woman that she was—to be admired.

Marlowe, has always been a thief and housebreaker, and has always tried to prove herself as one of the “boys”. But there is a part of her life she doesn’t remember, when she was young and her name was Elizabeth, a life that is no longer hers. But during a housebreaking mission, she is taken against her will and placed in the hands of Maxwell, Lord Dane. Maxwell is furious at his brother for putting a scrawny and ill-mannered chit in his hands to take care of. That is the last thing that he needs. Maxwell, doesn’t think much of Marlowe, except she is a danger to society, and he has a hard time convincing her of the truth of her true identity. Marlowe has lived her life on the streets, but she suspects that she may be the woman they are looking for, a woman with a future, and she wants to believe in that future, and she can’t deny the attraction that she feels for Maxwell, but there is a danger to them being together, a man who would destroy her before he could ever let her go…

Wow!! That is all I have to say about this one. Shana Galen is such a talented writer, and I feel like every time I read her, I am amazed by how well I enjoy her stories. I would say she is a top favorite author of mine, and always has been since I first started reading her. I wasn’t sure what to think about this story before I started reading it, but once I got into the first chapter, I knew I was in for a fun and wild ride…and I was right. You never know what a story will bring out to the reader, but this story by far gave me thrills and laughter and pure excitement. After finishing this story I just want to do a little happy dance in the street under the moonlight LOL kind of crazy with the cold weather, but I had such a fun time reading this one, and it has been a while since I have enjoyed a book so much.

The story is pretty basic, at first you view it as an ordinary story, but somehow this story turned from ordinary to extraordinary. You don’t see it coming until you are fully entrenched. The story starts off with Marlowe on one of her pickpocketing days, and she was such a hoot, I loved her…I really found her amusing and quite entertaining. She definitely has spirit and isn’t afraid to show it. She hates her “bubbies” and thinks of them as useless, which was hilarious to me, on how she views her body. Like being a woman is a curse. But in her lifestyle choice, it is a curse. What she does, being a beautiful woman has little purpose, at least until she meets a man that makes her quiver in delight and desire. Maxwell, is a lord of the Ton, involved in politics, and thinks of himself as content. But when Marlowe is brought to him and he is forced to take care of her until she is ready to meet her parents, he must groom and teach her to be a lady, and Maxwell can’t think of a worst fate being placed upon him. I loved the sparks between these two, and boy can they fight. I loved their interaction and once they got past the whole kidnapping issue, and Marlowe came to terms with what was happening, their relationship really started to progress. Their connection was so different and I just had the hardest time putting this one down, the reader starts to see how perfect they are for each other in the end, because what they have together is what is more important than trivial things.

This author has succeeded in beginning a series with a solid beginning, a tale of adventure, passion, danger and fascinating twists and turns that will enthrall you completely. Entertainment and laughter on every page. A PURE DELIGHT!!