Rorik, a Man/Wolf, torn apart by who he is. Ragna, a Seer, who rejects her womanhood. How can these two bring harmony to their destinies?

5-Star Rating Review

Title: Rorik The Wolves of Clan Sutherland, Book 2
Author: Mary Morgan
Genre: Historical Romance, Medieval
Pages: 223
Setting: 1206, Scotland
Published by: The Wild Rose Press, Inc
Publication Date: June 30, 2021
ASIN: B093Y2FG9K

The Wolves of Clan Sutherland Series:
Magnar
Rorik

Summary:

The Dark Seducer is known throughout Scotland as a man who charms many women into his bed. Pleasure is his motto as he obtains information for his king. Yet Rorik MacNeil harbors one secret buried beneath his heart of steel. An unfulfilled conquest plagues both man and his inner wolf, and Rorik would rather suffer death’s sharp blade than confront his greatest fear.

As the Seer for the Orkneyjar Isles, Ragna Maddadsson confronts an unknown destiny when she travels across the North Sea to Scotland. In her quest to deliver a message from a powerful vision, she fears the warrior will not listen. If Rorik ignores her warning, Ragna must find a way to forestall his impending death. If unsuccessful, she risks having her heart cleaved in two.

To unravel their true fates, Rorik and Ragna must trust in the power of the wolf.

My Review:

There are two forces bestowed on us through the magic of this author’s pen—her world building and fabulous, flawed, yet inspiring protagonists.

With each book in a series, I fall in love all over again with the world she builds. She gripped me as I read The Order of the Dragon Knights Series, followed on its heels, Legend of the Fenian Warriors. I hate to see her series end. In my mind they linger, and I hope Mary Morgan will again be inspired to continue these series.

Her third series, The Wolves of Clan Sutherland takes on Norse and Picts mythology, and equally captivating.

Rorik, book two of this new series, captures my imagination. Morgan’s sensuous love scenes are appropriately written, using terminology of old. The reader feels the love Rorik and Ragna have in their hearts.

With detailed descriptive scenes, her choice of words embeds scenes and their surrounds in my mind. I can even smell and feel the land beneath my feet. I am a shadow within the scene, privy to one thought or another.

Her main characters are many faceted. Rorik deals with deep emotional conflicts, bordering on psychological imbalance, brought on by a despicable father, and a complex personality, developed by how he reacts to his past and consequently, how he must play his part cast by his commander, the King of Scotland. He is forced to make love, but never to be in love. Rorik is a wild card in this story because his inner angst is changing the relationship between man and beast. Will he, the man, stay in control of the wolf who dwells within?

Ragna protects her heart from Rorik’s deed of accepting a wager to take her to bed, something her loving and giving heart was ready to do. Once knowing of the wager, even though he didn’t go through with it, she vowed never to let that man into her heart. Rorik hears her barbed tongue when she speaks to him. He tries to avoid seeing her, but destiny will have its way to complete the story she must tell.

Ragna not only was a Seer, but she has other magic and talents which the author slowly unfolds with the telling. I believe Ragna will be active through the series because of her relationship to the Wolves themselves. She may have magic on her side, but she must learn that life is more than magic. She must learn that life is magic when shared with the person who completes her.

If you enjoy reading stories with strong women protagonists, and bold alpha men with honor and passion directing their paths, then you must stalk the category Medieval Historical Romance/Paranomal Romance/Fantasy, locating Mary Morgan’s magical world building.

Book three. Bring it on!

#Rorik #NetGalley

Sequel to The King’s Outlaws by Amy Jarecki just released!

Title: Highland Beast The King’s Outlaws Book 3
Author: Amy Jarecki
Genre: Historical Romance, Medieval
Pages: 216
Setting: 1308, Scotland
Published by: Oliver Heber Books
Publication Date: June 29, 2021
ASIN: B08MDN4MN5

The King’s Outlaws Series:
Highland Warlord
Highland Raider
Highland Beast

Summary:

When Sir Arthur Campbell leads an attack claiming Dunstaffnage Castle for Robert the Bruce, he is rewarded with both the keep and surrounding lands. As he assumes the lairdship, he finds a saboteur within his ranks. He sets a trap to ensnare the culprit, only to discover the rebel is none other than Rhona MacDougall—the only woman he has ever loved.

After her clan is devastated by war, Rhona refuses to bend to Arthur’s whims. Aye, he once stole her heart, but that was before he fought against her kin. When in his presence, she plays the demure lady, though behind the scenes, she is doing everything in her power to subvert his authority. And she thinks she has him fooled…until he beats the lass at her own game.

Prepared to meet his condemnation, Rhona bravely stands before this man whom she has deemed a beast. But Arthur confronts her with a proposition she never dreamed possible—if she proves that she can change. If not, the desire long ago burned onto their souls just might hold them both captive for eternity.

My Review:

Amy Jarecki always writes a good story. It usually starts with an action scene involving physical action or emotional upheaval. These are two triggers I, invariably as a reader, relish.

Rhona, a young woman, who had the love of her life, Arthur Campbell, drop out of her existence without a by-your-leave held herself together just trying to forget, but never could. Her heart became bitter against him. Her granduncle, the chieftain of Clan MacDougall, found her a husband soon after, but he too left her. He died in a hunt. The child in her belly followed.

Now her granduncle, Lord of Lorn, Alexander MacDougall, left her, surrendering his property to Robert the Bruce, their enemy after they lost in the Battle of the Pass of Brander. The Lord of Lorn had sworn allegiance to the King of England. Those who had fought for Dunstaffnage never returned from the battle. Few were killed, and the majority of them fled to England.

Rhona accepted the burden laid upon her young shoulders to ensure the safety of her clan and kin. This she would do. When the forces of Robert the Bruce came to Dunstaffnage, she gave them her granduncle’s letter of surrender. Even though the Bruce spoke words of peace, she did not trust him. The very man she came to hate through time, her love, Arthur Campbell was appointed constable of Dunstaffnage.

The story revolves around Rhona’s loyalty to her granduncle, her bitterness to see the clan run by the turncoat, Arthur Campbell, and her buried feelings for Arthur Campbell. For what she saw of Arthur Campbell, did not measure up to someone who was against the clan. Her feelings made her do petty things against Robert the Bruce’s men. Her convictions and understanding of one of her own clan trying to kill Arthur Campbell, made her be more than petty.

Arthur Campbell had always loved Rhona. He loved her even more when he saw how she cared for her people as a healer. She was a strong and spirited woman, but he knew he would have to rewin her.

As the pettiness and events against Robert the Bruce increased, Sir Arthur had to find the culprit. He began by setting spies among the clan.

Arthur Campbell was any reader’s knight. He was honorable, kind, courageous, even-tempered, and thoughtful. As I reader, I was on his side from start to finish.

Even though I understood why Rhona did the things she did, she disturbed me with her continual pettishness. Her sense of loyalty to her granduncle weighed more in her mind than what she lived in the keep, what she heard of the goodness of Robert the Bruce.

The story was quick-paced. I did not feel any slow sections; each scene added something to the reader’s understanding and the whole of the story was most entertaining. Author Jarecki uses real places and events, even one of her main characters, Sir Arthur Campbell, did indeed get appointed as constable to the Dunstaffnage Castle. I am so appreciative of stories like this writer who uses so much real historical detail, weaving fictitious characters into the mix. She also provided a plethora of loch names for me to Google and see where Dunstaffnage Castle is. Thank you!

The Wolf & the Witch — the beginning of a new series by Claire Delacroix

Title: The Wolf & The Witch Blood Brothers Series, Book 1
Author: Claire Delacroix
Genre: Historical Romance, Medieval
Setting: 1375, Scotland
Published by: Deborah A. Cooke
Publication Date: May 11, 2021
ASIN: B08B3YW445

Summary: The three sons of a notorious mercenary should never have met…but now that they are sworn allies, the Scottish Borders will never be the same…

Denied his rightful legacy, Maximilian de Vries devised a plan to avenge himself upon his father and see his own future secured. Allied with his two half-brothers, he descends upon ancient and mysterious Kilderrick, determined to seize the keep once promised to him, regardless of the price. A woman rumored to be a witch is the sole one bold enough to defy him, but Maximilian has a solution—he will take her to wife, whether she be willing or nay, and seal his claim.

But this powerful warrior has yet to match wits with Alys Armstrong, a maiden with a thirst for vengeance and a fury that might exceed his own. Alys has no intention of capitulating to the proud and powerful rogue who stole everything from her—no matter how seductive his touch might be—and she does not share his compulsion to fight fair.

Bitter enemies from the outset, Maximilian and Alys’ match is a battle of wills. When passion flares, will either of them be able to resist temptation? And when Kilderrick itself is in peril, will they join forces to save the holding they each prize—and the unexpected love they value above all else?

My Review: Before I even began reading, I was intrigued. Wolves and Witches? Yes, both on my push-button list.

Insight: The characters’ beliefs and passed experiences fuel their present events.

I relate to this premise. Much of how we react to present events and situations stems from previous experiences and certainly our beliefs guide us to what we believe is truth. Sometimes our past experiences favor what we do in the present. Other times, not. A story isn’t a story unless events challenge physically, mentally and emotionally the characters. This, books by Claire Delacroix, do just that, creating an exciting, emotional rollercoaster for the reader.

Each of the two main players—Maximillian and Alys— were shaped by a difficult past.

The author gives us the lay of the land early on through the eyes of Murdoch, a Scot out for revenge with his secret of parentage. He is the snake hidden beneath the foliage. When will he strike?

The Silver Wolf, Maximillian de Vries, the proper son of Jean le Beau, was shaped for whom he was—a mercenary. Dutifully, as a son, he did his father’s bidding. Hidden under his armor of toughness, were facets of his personality he shared with no one. The reader learns about these with the unfolding of the story.

It becomes clear the three brothers fathered by Jean de Vries – Maximillian (the rightful heir), Amaury (the son of Maximillian’s mother’s maid and Jean le Beau), and Raphael, Maximillian’s half-brother, had high hopes with the demise of their father, Jean le Beau.  Each were disappointed, for the oldest son of the de Vries was not among them. Only the eldest son of the de Vries family, mother to Maximillian would snag the title and property.

Angered, frustrated, and feeling alone, the brothers made a blood pact. They journeyed with six others to Maximillian’s consolation prize, Kilderrick Castle, thrown at him like some unwanted bone.  The hold was promised to Maximillian years ago when upon his father’s command he pillaged it, seeking a treasure, he never found, nor had he heard any other had found it. With the pact, the brothers pledged an oath to defend each other, and to reclaim Kilderrick but it was humored to be haunted with evil spirits and witches. Of these both, Maximillian believed not a word.

Four women, each with their her story of wretchedness live in the forest, robbing thieves passing along the road near Kilderrick. This story involves all four, but Alys Armstrong is the woman who gains Maximillian’s interest.

Once Alys knew who had come back to Kilderrick, she sought revenge. He was the man who killed her father and burnt her father’s keep. She would have her revenge.

When Maximillian came back to find the treasure, he found mischievous women who thieved horses, Amaury’s falcon, and scared the villagers and those under his protection. He, for one, did not believe in witches. His interest was piqued, as he enjoyed a good challenge. Once he knew who Alys Armstrong was, he used her to cement his hold on the keep.  She would be his wife.

The story line is as complicated as the relationship between the brothers. It is infused with action and three clever women who are just trying to survive and keep the pillage of the thieves for themselves. When Alys was captured by Maximillian’s men, the other three continued what they had learned so well to do—strike fear in the superstitious.

A good story, layered with several subplots, enriches the read and interest. The author pens a story with a touch of paranormal happenings, action-packed scenes, and some very thought-provoking ones when she lets us into the mind of several of the characters. I felt the perilous shifting of sands beneath the witches’ feet, as they battle their new enemy. Would they win this battle with Maximillian and keep the land for their own?

The author created a unique setting, one I’ll remember for a long while. She ably fleshed-out the four witches and three brothers and I already have some feel of their character traits.

Author Claire Delacroix’s writing style and story-writing ability in her Medieval Historical Romances has always charmed me. Even though this is Maximillan and Alys’s story, her character building of the supporting characters is not stagnant. Rather, there are changes afoot for them all. I eagerly await the next book in the series.

Mary Morgan’s New Series, The Wolves of Clan Sutherland, Promises to be a Winner! MAGNAR review of soon-to-release book 1

Title: Magnar The Wolves of Sutherland Book 1
Author: Mary Morgan
Genre: Viking Historical Romance
Pages: 223
Published by: The Wild Rose Press
Published Date: August 26, 2020
ASIN: B08DCDYT4S

Publisher’s Summary:

Known as the Barbarian, Magnar MacAlpin is a fierce ruler for those under his command. As leader of the Wolves of Clan Sutherland, his loyalty and obedience lie with Scotland. However, the king’s last demand is not something Magnar will tolerate.

After Elspeth Gunn’s brother the Chieftain of Castle Steinn is murdered, she flees with her nephew, and finds safety amongst a band of men who are rumored to be part wolf. When the king forces her to wed a heathen Northman, she fears losing her heart and soul not only to the man, but the beast as well.

In order to restore peace to a shattered clan, Magnar and Elspeth travel a treacherous path that challenges their beliefs. When evil seeks to destroy ancient traditions, will Magnar be compelled to restrain his wolf or allow him free to protect those he loves?

***********5-STAR STORY************

My Review:

This is Mary Morgan’s third series.  I was fortunate enough to acquire an ARC (advanced reader’s copy).  I expected a delightful read, since I fell in love with her Fenian Warriors and Dragon Knights Series.  I wasn’t disappointed and know if you loved her two previous series, you’ll keep reading Morgan!

The prologue and first chapter set the story.  With my eagerness to get at the heart of the story, I didn’t take the time to appreciate the details of the setting, nor Magnar’s inner-conflict.  Dear reader, don’t make the same mistake I did.  (I reread that portion)

It’s obvious how much thought and research went into creating this world.  World-building is Morgan’s forte, along with her imagination, making it all believable.

Norse and Picts mythology play an important role in The Wolves of Sutherland series, as does magic.  Who doesn’t love magic?  I did a little Googling of the gods mentioned in dialogue.  It’s fascinating.  If you are anything like me, I love to learn something from a story, aside from the entertainment factor.

In the first few pages, we learn about Odin, a god with many talents, including skill with divination through runes and magic.  Magnar calls upon Forsetti, the God of Justice, pleading to know what he should do, Rorik utters the name of god Loki.  Then there is Dagda referred to by a young Erik.

A powerful Seer, Ragna, lives at Magnar’s old home, Kirkjuvagr (pronounced ‘kirk-u-vaar), in the Orkney Islands. She calls him home to tell him his mother died and gives him two letters his mother wrote before she died. These letters change the direction of his life.

The fun twist to this story is Magnar and six others, guards to King William of Scotland, are both man and wolf. The plot thickens when Magnar finds out his twin brother may be alive and endowed with the same magic, making him man and wolf.

Elspeth and her nephew escape by foot from Castle Steinn during a battle to take over the castle. Her brother, the chieftain, is killed. Elspeth escapes to the forest.  Her only thought is to protect her seven-year-old nephew, Erik Gunn.  With no horse, no food or shelter, they both are very vulnerable, making them easy pickings.

Elspeth is loyal, spunky and open-minded.  She accepts, albeit slowly, the idea of beings, both man and wolf, and the magic that created such.  Can she live with the ideas of magic and gods and still be a believer of her religion?

She gets to find out when the King commands her to marry Magnar.  Their rocky start adds spice, even though both are drawn to the other yet daring not to admit it.  It’s a delicious romance that seasons the story, allowing the reader to get to know both these characters.

Book 1 additionally introduces all the guardians, but most time is spent with Rorik (wolf), friend to Magnar. Rorik doesn’t like Ragnar (obviously that’s another story).  Gunnar is intriguing because magic from the old religion touches him, while his faith is in the new.  Young Erik Gunn is a delightful character and thinks beyond his years. I see him straddling both religions and accepting them. (my opinion—could be way off, but I’ll find out!)

Morgan’s pen is powered with magic of days gone by! I hope you join me in reading this series and if you haven’t read her others, please do!

What happened to the Templar Knights when they were disbanded? Find out in this riveting read from Author Diana Cosby. She once again engages us ‘Highlanders’ in her Forbidden Series with FORBIDDEN REALM, book 5.

 

Title: Forbidden Realm The Forbidden Series, Book 5
Author: Diana Cosby
Genre: Historical Romance
Pages: 203
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Publication Date: April 14, 2020
Sold by: Amazon.com Services LLC
ASIN: B07Z8KK7P3

Publisher’s Summary:

For the price of honor, he must walk away from the woman he loves…

Orphaned young, a childhood of loneliness and brutality led Sir Ronan O’Connor to join the Knights Templar and vow never to return to Ireland. But now a mission to transport a cache of Templar armaments for King Robert the Bruce forces the knight back to his homeland. Under his protection on the journey is an Irish nobleman and his daughter, Lathir McConaghy. Trained in combat, Lathir will bend to no man . . .

After the death of her betrothed in battle, Lathir guards her heart fiercely. Until an attack at sea forces her and Ronan to rely on each other for their survival. In the storm-filled days adrift at sea, a passionate bond forms between Lathir and the fierce warrior. In a realm torn by treachery and turmoil, they fight for their future even as secrets threaten to destroy their mission, and any chance at love.

FIVE-STAR READ

My Review:

I’ve always enjoyed the setting that Diana Cosby writes her love stories. She brings out a bit of history not all historians agree upon in this series. The Templar Knights were of pure character coming from all walks of life. The order in France came under attack by France’s King Philip IV and were accused of heresy and were arrested. The few who were able to escape scattered, mostly to Scotland or Portugal. The Templar Knights were no more and many men were left to flounder without their anchor, taking up another life. I’m sure the Templars remained true to their natures and continued to help when fairness and justice needed their aid.

Notable Quote:

Naught about life was safe, there were no assurances, and ‘twas those who took the risks who carved their own destinies.

Cosby takes us into the lives of  fictitious Templar Knights who made their way to Scotland after King Philip IV accused them of heresy. I always believe a good writer whose setting is of historical value will spur the reader to pursue their history education of that period to further learn about its impact on people’s lives. Cosby has certainly done that for me.

She weaves stories about characters in believable circumstances based on a historical setting. Her characters are richly textured, conflicted internally, and fully dimensionalized. They grapple with questions most of us readers do from time to time. What is the right thing to do for others? Am I good enough to pursue this relationship? What is more important, my happiness or another’s? Should duty to country trump duty to my own or to me?

I enjoy the pacing of her stories, along with the eloquence of many descriptive parts of the book. Note the following sentences:

Rónán inhaled the tang of salt-rich air as he looked westward. Across the calming sea, the tip of the sun glowed on the cloud-smeared horizon, the sky a blur of angry purples entangled with a mixture of orange and red.

…The soft slap of waves against the thin layer of ice upon the hull played in eerie harmony to the ghostly cries of distant gulls.

I have read the whole series. It is excellent entertainment completely enjoyable. If you haven’t started reading Diana Cosby, you’ll find she has written two other series, equally enjoyable. MacGruder Brothers and The Oath Trilogy.

 

 

 

HIGHLAND SWORD by May McGoldrick ~ a passionate, breath-taking adventure in the Highland of the 1820’s ~ just released

Title: Highland Sword A Royal Highlander Novel, book 3
Author: May McGoldrick (co-authored by husband and wife)
Genre: Historical Romance
Setting: Scotland, Highlands 1820
Pages: 320
Published by: St. Martin’s Paperbacks
Publication Date: March 31, 2020
Sold by: Macmillan
ASIN: B07SCV5RF4

Publisher’s Summary:

Scottish pride, persuasion, and passion—this is Highland romance at its breathtaking best.

From USA Today bestselling author May McGoldrick comes Highland Sword, the third book in the Royal Highlander series.

A VOW FOR VENGEANCE
Fleeing to the Highlands after her father’s murder, fiery Morrigan Drummond has a score to settle with Sir Rupert Burney, the English spymaster responsible for his death. Trained to fight alongside the other rebels determined to break Britain’s hold on Scotland, she swears to avenge her father’s death—until a chance encounter with a barrister as proud and principled as she is presents her with a hard choice…and a bittersweet temptation.

A PLEA FOR PASSION
Aidan Grant has never encountered another woman like dangerous beauty Morrigan—and he has the bruises to prove it. Yet she could be the key to defending two innocent men, as well as striking a death blow to the reprehensible Burney. Convincing Morrigan to help him will take time, but Aidan is willing to wait if it means victory over corrupt government forces and freedom for his people…and Morrigan’s hand in marriage. Can two warriors committed to a cause stand down long enough to open their hearts to a love fierce enough to last…forever?

5-STAR READ

My Review:

This team duo has written a series where I see history just bursting off the page. While Jim McGoldrick holds a Ph.D. degree in Scottish and English literature, his mechanical engineer wife takes the events of history to another level through her sensuous characters. It is obvious they both love history and making it live and breathe. I spent some time Googling characters to discover who are the real characters in history and who are the fictitious ones and how closely the authors followed events.

The reader quickly gets wrapped up in continuing the story already laid out in book one and two. We meet the Queen of England and Ireland again in this book which allows the reader to understand her love for her son and how aware she is her life won’t be a long one. Powerful forces close to her wish her harm. In consequence, her son, Cinaed who was adopted by the Mackintosh clan is in danger by those seeking to destroy any bloodline related to the Queen.

We meet Cinaed in Highland Crown. His ship is destroyed and his men lost in a ship wreck. Barely alive, he is saved by a dedicated surgeon and doctor, Isabella. Scotland wants him to be king someday, but he isn’t interested in being king. This story is of Cinaed finding out who he is.

It is also a story about Isabella’s sister, Morrigan Drummond, who has a story deeply buried in her heart that slowly rises to the surface through events unfolding. You will hurt for Morrigan. I did. She is determined to never be helpless again. She learns to take up the sword. She is a force to be reckoned with when Aidan Grant gets in her way.

Aidan Grant finds his calling in the Highlands. He is a man seeking justice for those who are unfairly persecuted. He is a perfect match for Morrigan, both in wit and weaponry.

The bad guys play their parts very well, perfect catalysts to propel the story forward. You’ll love to hate Morrigan’s uncle. You’ll love to hate Sir Rupert Burney, both fictitious characters.

One final thought: This series has been totally captivating. I suggest you read the series to get the full impact of events and characters. I can also see the series being expanded. There are three women, Isabella, Fiona, and Morrigan, closely linked, whom the authors could use to bring the reader more historical events with beguiling stories.

Review: THE HIGHLAND ROGUE by Amy Jarecki

Title: The Highland Rogue Lords of the Highlands, Book 7
Author: Amy Jarecki
Genre: Historical Romance
Story Setting: 1714, Scottish Adventure
Pages: 368
Published by: Forever
Published Date: March 24, 2020
Sold by: Hachette Book Group
ASIN: B07V336ND8

 

Publisher’s Summary:

A courageous Highlander falls for a strong-willed lass on the treacherous high seas in this action-packed Scottish romance.
After a vicious attack on his ship, Sir Kennan Cameron washes ashore on a deserted Scottish island, nearly dead. But he soon finds he’s not as alone as he thought. Kennan knows he can’t stay on the island, but neither can he leave the brave and bonny lass who has nursed him back to health — even if she is from a rival clan.

Abandoned by her family, Divana Campbell is both terrified and relieved when a rugged Highlander drags himself from the surf. Trusting Kennan is her only chance for survival — and by the time they arrive at his castle, she can barely imagine life without him. But as the heir to a powerful chieftain, Kennan could never marry the likes of her.

Together, they’ll brave tempests, pirates, betrayal, and ruin. But soon Kennan must decide what matters most: his thirst for vengeance or the woman who’s won his heart.

5-STAR READ

My Review:

As in real life, as we experience these days, calamity does not differentiate between the station of man or class. Destiny simply pulls you in. It’s how you deal with the cards you are dealt, your inner strength and your will not to give up which makes the difference!

Author Amy Jarecki tells a tale where both the hero and heroine do their best to survive in an amazing, fast-paced, heart-thumping adventure, both having to face death.

Sir Kennan Cameron, in one moment captaining his ship the Highland Reel in a serene state of mind, to the next fighting for his life in a battle of fierceness and cruelty. The British pirate, Jackson Vane had struck. That day Kennan lost many men. After the slaughter, who was left, walked the plank to face death in the icy, shark infested waters. With his midriff sliced, hands tied, Kennan opted to take control of the situation. He ran the plank, willing to face the icy waters rather than to experience what further damage the pirates could do him before killing him. At least he had a chance.

So reader, where I had have just witnessed a terrible battle, horrific wounds and with unbelievable odds of living, the author sets you up to realize that hope can be possible if one is determined to succeed and prepared for the worse. Kennan was determined to live, to get back his ship and his wealth in the cargo. His need for revenge for the traitor who told Vane about his cargo, helped provide the herculean strength necessary to save himself.

Kennan washes up on an island, deserted except for a young woman, Divana, who also has a story of depravity, and hardship for two long years, but with her strength to survive she does.

Jarecki weaves a story of suspense with emotional scenes. Kennan is saved by Divana. As he heals, he learns about Divana, and she him. As long as they exist on this island, station in life does not matter. But soon fate, once again, changes their circumstances. Are they strong enough to survive wounds of the heart?

I hope you have a chance to read this book. I highly recommend the author and series.

Review: THE TASTE OF LOVE, book 3 from the Book of Love series penned by Meara Platt ~ a great book to curl up with!

Title: The Taste of Love Book of Love, Book 3
Author: Meara Platt
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency
Pages: 202
Published by: Dragonablade Publishing, Inc., 1 edition
Publication Date: August 30, 2019
Sold by: Amazon.com Services LLC
ASIN: B07VQ93S98

The Book of Love Series
Book 1 – The Look of Love
Book 2 – The Touch of Love
Book 3 – The Taste of Love
Book 4 – The Song of Love
Book 5 – The Scent of Love (Approx. March 2020)
Book 6 – The Kiss of Love (Approx. June 2020)

 

Publisher’s Summary:

Will the mysterious Book of Love lead Penelope to her true love?

Lady Penelope Sherbourne is not – absolutely not – going to fall in love with Thaddius MacLauren, Laird of Caithness, even if he is a big, handsome Scottish brute and ridiculously protective of her. But now that the Book of Love has fallen into her hands, Thad is the only one she trusts to test out the sensations she must explore in order to find the perfect husband. She wants a mild-mannered English earl, one who lives near her family, and who will not make her heart leap or her bones melt as Thad does every time he looks at her.

Thaddius MacLauren intends to claim a kiss from Lady Penelope Sherbourne and nothing more. No, not a thing more, even though he’s loved the sharp-tongued, vexing lass forever. She’s also been kinder to him than anyone else alive, and for a boy who never felt loved by his family, Penelope’s kindness has come to mean everything to him. How can he ever tell her how he feels? She’s the daughter of a powerful earl and all he can offer her is a tumble-down holding at the northern tip of Scotland. It will take a miracle to win her heart.

Is it possible the Book of Love holds the magic to bring it about?

My Thoughts: A historical romance read for someone who enjoys laughing with characters who end up in very precarious situations and hot love scenes!

Who wouldn’t like to be a test frog for a pretty little gel?

Lady Penelope needed a test frog, you know, a guy who can teach her what kissing is all about. She knew she was safe with Thaddius—brawny, handsome Thad. With the Book of Love passed to her by her two best friends who found their true loves, hers was to test what love was all about. A girl needed to be ready with the necessary tools available to measure the man she intended to marry, didn’t she? Who better than her longtime friend, Thad? Thaddius was only a test frog. This thought was hard to keep utmost in her mind because her test frog was simply delicious!

Poor man!!

Poor man indeed, because he’d always been in love with her, but he hadn’t the title necessary to even contemplate a possible union. He couldn’t let her choose another test frog because she’d never be safe with them. His protection streak was a mile long when it came to Lady Penelope.

Being a test frog was torture. He had a hard time controlling certain parts of his anatomy!It was also confirmation of just how much she affected him. Unbeknownst to him, Penelope was having a difficult time separating frog from man!

Lady Penelope went about ‘testing’ very methodically. Thad soon found out she gave as much as she was given.

The situation was funny and led to some rather (fanning myself) hot scenes.

I haven’t read the others in this series, but if Penelope’s story is any indication of the rest, I’m sure to enjoy them.

 

Book Review: HIGHLAND JEWEL authored by husband-and-wife team with pen name May McGoldrick

 

Title: Highland Jewel Royal Highlander Series, Book 2
Author: May McGoldrick
Genre: Historical Fiction
Setting: 1820 Scotland
Pages: 313
Published by: St. Martin’s Paperbacks
Published Date: September 24, 2019
Sold by: Macmillan
ASIN: B07PBLFV1K

 

Royal Highlander Series:
Highland Crown   Book 1
Highland Jewel     Book 2
Highland Sword   Book 3

 

Publisher’s Summary:

A REBEL AT HEART
Maisie Murray’s sweet, docile exterior masks the courageous spirit of a firebrand determined to champion women’s suffrage with like-minded friends. But fighting for her principles has swept her directly into harm’s way—and into the arms of a man she cannot resist.

A WARRIOR BY BLOOD
A trained officer with the Royal Highland Regiment, Niall Campbell has spent his life serving the Crown. Battle-weary and searching for peace, he nothing to do with trouble—until he meets Maisie. But unless Niall and Maisie can find a way to stand up to the destructive forces that threaten to divide them, long-buried secrets and political schemes are destined to stand in the way of the glorious love they’ve found…

5-Star Read

My Thoughts: I’ve had the pleasure of reading from the beginning of the series and most certainly will continue reading the rest. The stories are entertaining with just the right amount of intrigue. Coupled with the rich fodder of historical events which the characters play their parts, I was caught up in the utter turmoil of their circumstances. Concerned for their well-being, I was compelled to keep flipping the pages!

The author told the story using three strong women of spirit and determination who wish to make the world a better place for all. Isabella, who was the main heroine in book one, Maisie and Fiona, taking the stage in book two, and Maggie in book 3, The Highland Sword, publishing March 2020.

Fiona and Maisie are heavily involved in changing the conditions women work under. They start a branch of the Female Reform Society. These societies actually existed. The author captures the sentiment of the times when grassroot efforts of women like Fiona and Maisie are spread throughout England.

When the government decides to curb these so-called disturbances of society, they attack unarmed men and women such as what happened at the Peterloo Massacre. Take time to Google and learn about the massacre. They then enacted The Six Acts, further fueling the outrage of the people. With a heavy hand they beat people suspected of involvement and imprison them.

Fiona and Maisie, our heroines, print material to inform the people what is happening and lead rallies. On several occasions they were almost caught, once saved by Niall, Fiona’s brother. Romance is afoot when Niall and Maisie are drawn to each other, but it is questionable whether a burgeoning love can keep danger at bay.

This chaos was a perfect cover for the undergoing of powerful people who had a different agenda, an agenda to weaken Scotland through killing the man known as The Son of Scotland.

Niall, Fiona’s brother, loves his sister and her two children very much and tries his best to protect her, yet give her the freedom she deserves. He understands her motives and sympathizes with her. When a good man has a weakness, his enemies will use it to get what they want. Niall is snared into a plot to harm the queen. He has choices. All are risky and dangerous. Which does he choose?

A remarkable story and clearly one I will remember long into the future.

 

Continue Reading the Delightful Series from Cynthia Wright: Rakes and Rebels with HER HUSBAND, THE RAKE

Title: Her Husband, the Rake Rakes and Rebels: The Raveneau Family, Book 2
Author: Cynthia Wright
Genre: Historical Romance
Setting: Connecticut, 1788
Publisher: Boxwood Manor Books (January 25, 2020)
Publication Date: January 25, 2020
Sold by: Amazon.com Services LLC
ASIN: B08379RB1T

 

Publisher’s Summary:

From a New York Times bestselling author comes a Raveneau Family novella you’ll savor!
“And they lived happily ever after…”
Or did they?

Can a rake like André Raveneau truly be tamed into a domesticated husband and father…or will he remain a pacing tiger, destined to break free of his cage?

Come into the Raveneaus’ Connecticut home, as Devon struggles to balance the needs of her little children with the demands of a restless, hot-blooded husband. When two people reappear from the past, long-suppressed fears ignite, and St. Valentine’s Day becomes a time of reckoning for André and Devon Raveneau.

Can this marriage, between two passionate and stubborn people, be saved?

Rakes & Rebels: The Raveneau Family series:
1 – Silver Storm (André & Devon)
2 – Her Husband, the Rake: a sequel novella (André & Devon)
3 – Smuggler’s Moon (Sebastian & Julia)
4 – The Secret of Love (Gabriel & Isabella)
5 – Surrender the Stars (Ryan & Lindsay)
6 – His Make-Believe Bride (Justin & Mouette)
7 – His Reckless Bargain (Nathan & Adrienne)
8 – Tempest (Adam & Cathy)

 

5-STAR READ

My Thoughts:  The character development of each major player  in Cynthia Wright’s work is superbly crafted.  I quickly become attached to the characters, concerned for their well-being.

This is reaffirmed in Her Husband, a Rake.  Book one introduces Andre and Devon. If you haven’t read it, try to before you read this one. If you can’t, it is also fine. Each of her books are standalone, but I think you’ll enjoy book two even more if you are introduced to the rake Andre (his background) and how he captured Devon’s heart.

I’ve also listened to the audiobook of book one and books two’s audio is already out, so if you prefer to listen to Tim Campbell narrate the novella, you are in for a treat.  He has a divine way of telling the story. Incidentally, I love his voice for Andre (French accent). Sample of audio

Wright must have a wonderful sense of humor because I can always anticipate scenes which will have me smiling. Andre and Devon are both characters you will love as Devon is challenged with doubts about her relationship with Andre, or more succintly put, his love for her and the children.

Marriage can be rocky at times with the demands of child rearing. They can be made worse with an unexpected visit from a manipulative mother who isn’t very pleased with her daughter’s choice of a husband. Deborah Lindsay Nicholson will have you rolling your eyes!

Deborah Lindsay Nicholson, brings with her an agenda of her own, reintroducing to her daughter her previous beau who has become a very rich man and still pines after Devon. Divorce for women who marry the wrong man is easily done in the states since the rules became lax after cutting with the Mother country, or so she puts to her daughter.

Morgan Gadwin, the fortunate or unfortunate beau in question, tries his best to woo Devon. It can’t come at a worse time because Andre hasn’t been very attentive to Devon as of late. He spends more time than usual away from the house, late hours in the library alone, and doesn’t often remember to kiss the children goodnight. All of this has Devon questioning whether he has fallen out of love. Her heart is vulnerable.

I like the characterization of Morgan Gadwin. He has many points to his favor. But Andre has a hard time not smashing his face when he sees him with Devon. Andre’s flaw is he hides the depth of his feelings for Devon and has guarded his heart from the possible pain love can inflict.

In the outcome, Deborah, Devon’s mother, understands her son-in-law better than before. Morgan finally realizes he is still runner up to reach Devon’s heart. Andre lets his guard down where Devon is concerned and claims his rightful place within his family. Devon learns the biggest lesson of all—the doors of communication should never be closed.  But it’s how they all arrive to these conclusions which will keep you entertained and bewitched!