The Ladies Rewrite the Rules is such a fun and charming historical romance. I loved the vibrant characters, witty dialogue, and swoon-worthy love storThe Ladies Rewrite the Rules is such a fun and charming historical romance. I loved the vibrant characters, witty dialogue, and swoon-worthy love stories.
Diana is a compassionate and kind protagonist, and I loved her story. With her newfound freedom, Diana finally begins to experience life, and when she connects with the other women who are in the same directory she’s in, Diana really begins to flourish.
The Ladies of the Registry. What a fun group to be a part of! All of these women, each of whom is mentioned in Maxwell’s directory of wealthy, eligible women, are harshly judged for things that were mostly out of their control. I love this group of women and what they stand for. The Ladies of the Registry, as they’ve named themselves, are bucking societal norms and turning negative experiences into positive ones, which empowers them. It’s interesting to see where their stories lead as they forge together and take control of their situations in ways that defy what’s expected of women at the time.
The friendship between Diana and Regina is another highlight of the book. These friends develop such a wonderful bond, and the way that they wholly accept and support each other is something desperately needed in both of their lives. There are some great messages here about sisterhood, found families, starting over, and owning one’s life. I also really like how the story was resolved and that we get to see the motivations and remorse of some of the antagonists.
But my favorite part of the story is the romances. Yes, romances! There are several in the story, each unique and swoon-worthy in their own right. The main love story is an enemies-to-lovers, and there are also a couple of second-chance romances that are delightful! Diana and a well are wonderful together, and his growth throughout the story, as he realizes the ramifications of the book he penned, is remarkable. I really like how the author sheds light on so many different perspectives and motivations, some of which are innocent and others that are more unsavory, behind them. It makes you see the situations in different ways....more
Love, love, love it! I read this book in one sitting because, once I started, I couldn't put it down. The chara**Full Review To Come in January 2024**
Love, love, love it! I read this book in one sitting because, once I started, I couldn't put it down. The characters are all fantastic, especially Diana and Max. Swoon! Max shows a tremendous amount of growth over the course of the book, as do many others, which I really liked. And I adored the love stories (Yes, stories! There’s more than one, and they’re delightful!).
An engrossing and romantic story about second chances, friendship, breaking social and gender norms, and more, this is definitely a must-read for historical romance lovers!...more
This was such a fun and entertaining historical romance and a great addition to The Brothers of Wolf Isle series. I’ve really enjoyed this series and This was such a fun and entertaining historical romance and a great addition to The Brothers of Wolf Isle series. I’ve really enjoyed this series and was excited to revisit Wolf Isle and its inhabitants. The Macquerie brothers are all such hunky highlanders, and Drostan, the MMC in this book is no exception.
Because of the curse put on his family, Drostan has decided never to marry or have children. Of course, as soon as he meets Lia, his feelings toward marriage and his future change. Lia has run away from her abusive brother, who has always said the Macquarie brothers were terrible men. Intent on vengeance, Lia travels to Wolf Isle to kill one of the brothers, but Lia quickly realizes what she’s been told might not be the truth. The Macquarie brothers are the opposite of what she expected. Kind, welcoming, and helpful, they welcome Lia and treat her well, much to her surprise, and she begins to change her perception of the brothers, especially Drostan.
Lia and Drostan have a great enemies-to-lovers romance, and I like how they come together. Both are strong characters intent on taking charge of their lives. Lia refuses to be a political pawn and be married off to an older man for her brother’s gain. Drostan will do whatever he must to protect his family and those he loves. I think both learn a lot about themselves and life as they grow closer together. However, coming from enemy clans, the pair has to decide if their love is worth fighting and changing for.
With secrets, intrigue, danger, pirates, a swoon-worthy Highlander, and a woman bent on revenge, The Highlander’s Secret Avenger is an engaging and romantic story, and though it’s part of a series, it can be read on its own. Special thanks to Entangled Publishing for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own....more
A sapphic regency romance, A Lady to Treasure follows Louisa, an American sent to England by her father to find a wealthy husband, and Sarah, an outspA sapphic regency romance, A Lady to Treasure follows Louisa, an American sent to England by her father to find a wealthy husband, and Sarah, an outspoken neighbor of Louisa’s family. I really enjoyed the story. Louisa and Sarah are dynamic and compelling characters, and their slow-building romance is wonderful.
The story takes place in the early 1800s, and I liked how the dialogue, historical references, and imagery enhanced the setting. Characters like Sarah and Louisa, who often ignore societal norms and expectations, further highlight the time period and the many inequities women faced.
Louisa and Sarah are very different from each other, and their personalities definitely clash at times. Both women are layered and interesting characters, and I enjoyed their arcs, individually and as a couple. Louisa grew up without love and is very business-minded, and she’s willing to do anything to help solve her father’s financial woes, even if it means entering into a marriage with a wealthy man she barely knows. Sarah is a proud and unconventional woman who doesn’t shy away from voicing her opinions. Though she has the best intentions, she sometimes seems harsh, and she is well-respected and liked by those who know her. She’s a hard worker who takes on an immense amount of responsibility to get her family’s estate out of debt, but she struggles to let others help her. Both characters grow and change over the course of the novel as they face some difficult situations and have to make hard choices.
As Louisa and Sarah gain a deeper understanding of each other, they start to see that they actually complement each other well, and they have more in common than they originally thought. Both put their wants aside to help their families, both are strong and resourceful, and both are quite intelligent. It was wonderful to see both characters slowly become more open with each other as they grow closer. Plus, they have great chemistry! Whether they are arguing, flirting, or doing anything in between, the chemistry between them is fantastic.
The secondary characters are great too, especially Ann and Eleanor, as is the plot. It took several unexpected turns, and I was surprised at how some things played out. I also love the messages about women’s rights, being true to oneself, and fighting for the people and things you believe in.
Special thanks to Marianne Ratcliffe for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own....more
I’m so happy to be on the tour today for A Laird Without a Past, the first book in the Secrets of Clan Cameron historical romance series. The story foI’m so happy to be on the tour today for A Laird Without a Past, the first book in the Secrets of Clan Cameron historical romance series. The story follows Royce, a man who wakes with no memories or vision, and Iona, the healer who rescued him. It’s a unique and entertaining story, and I loved the romance between Iona and Royce!
Royce and Iona have such a great love story with so many tropes I enjoy, and their connection is really strong. Iona takes care of Royce for a lot of the story, which I found really interesting. She’s a capable, intelligent, independent woman who has suffered much loss in her life, and she doesn’t want to risk getting close to anyone again. Perfectly content to live alone and away from others with her beloved dog for company and her job as a healer to sustain her, Iona fights her feelings for the mysterious man who washes up on her shores. But the more time they spend together and the more they get to know each other, the harder it is for Iona and Royce to hide their feelings.
“You have taught me to be brave in an ocean of uncertainty.”
An amnesiac, Royce has no idea how he ended up in Iona’s care, but he does know that his feelings for her are ever-growing and true. He really sees her and understands and respects her, which is rare for Iona, who is often judged and whispered about. I like that Royce doesn’t take away her sense of self, and he respects her decisions even when he doesn’t understand or agree with them. His deference to and admiration of her makes Royce even more swoon-worthy.
Royce’s guilt over losing his sister to the sea when he was a child still haunts him, and it’s intriguing to see how this part of the story plays out. There’s some danger and mystery, and it’s clear that someone wants the secrets of the past to stay in the past. Luckily, Royce’s determination (and guilt) to find out what happened to his sister proves stronger.
I really enjoyed this story. The characters are great, the setting sounds gorgeous, and Iona’s dog is a delight! I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Special thanks to Rachels Random Resources for having me on the tour....more
Marry Me Midnight is the first book in the Once Upon the East End historical romance series by Felicia Grossman.
Something I really like about the storMarry Me Midnight is the first book in the Once Upon the East End historical romance series by Felicia Grossman.
Something I really like about the story is the representation. I haven’t read many historical romances in 1800s England with Jewish protagonists, and it’s clear a ton of research was put into creating a historically accurate piece. The story sheds light on a group that is quite unrepresented in historical romance. It was eye-opening to learn about the political and social discrimination and limitations Jewish people faced, which were even worse for women.
I also liked the reverse Cinderella elements of the story and the romance. Aaron is a delight. He’s so kind, and he has a gift with children and animals, but he doesn’t think he’s good enough. I just wanted to give him a big hug and a bunch of reassurance. Isabelle is great too, and their chemistry is fantastic. They have a bit of a forbidden romance since they come from very different social and economic circles, and there’s so much pining and angst and longing. And, whew, it gets a little steamy too!
Overall, I liked the story. It was a bit choppy at times, and it started off slow. But the second half of the story was faster-paced, the characters are well-developed, and the romance is swoon-worthy!
Special thanks to Forever Publishing for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own....more
In the Eyes of the Earl is the third book in The Cambridge Brotherhood historical romance series. It’s an entertaining story with secrets, suspense, mIn the Eyes of the Earl is the third book in The Cambridge Brotherhood historical romance series. It’s an entertaining story with secrets, suspense, mystery, and a great enemies-to-lovers romance.
Elizabeth is the daughter of a Cambridge professor and often helps him with his research. That’s where she meets Collin Morgan, Earl of Penderdale, as he investigates who is impersonating him and committing crimes in his name. Elizabeth is a bluestocking who loves learning and teaching, and she hates that women aren’t allowed the same education as men, which is why she secretly teaches women herself. I love her! She’s so intelligent, and she is strong in her assertions, though she usually tries to fade into the background. Collin is one of the few who sees the real Elizabeth.
Collin is great too, and I was so curious about the mystery surrounding his situation. Suspended from his job at the War Office, Collin is determined to figure out who is impersonating him. Luckily, he has Elizabeth on his side because they make a good team. Collin loves to bait and challenge Elizabeth, and they have so many quick-witted conversations. I just love their banter. Collin and Elizabeth might start off on the wrong foot, but their chemistry sizzles from their first meeting.
The mystery is intriguing too, though it is a little predictable. And there is a bit of a love triangle, which isn’t my favorite trope. But, overall, this is an entertaining read with a fun enemies-to-lovers, closed-door romance.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own....more
Strange Arithmetic is an engrossing piece of historical fiction with richly developed characters, immersive dual timelines, and poignant messages. LikStrange Arithmetic is an engrossing piece of historical fiction with richly developed characters, immersive dual timelines, and poignant messages. Like Willis’s first book, this story is set in Massachusetts, and much of the plot takes place less than an hour from my home. I always find historical fiction set in or near Rhode island so fascinating. It’s amazing to see how much our world, cities, and societies have changed and how they haven’t. The dual timelines highlight these very striking changes and similarities. I also didn’t know much about prisoners of war who were kept in New England, but I did know a bit about the Irish-Catholic and Italian-American cultures, and I thought both were realistically portrayed.
The first timeline takes place in 1944 with Maggie and Leo’s story and the second in 2015 with Niamh’s. These characters are layered and complex, each with interesting arcs and unique connections. Their stories are woven together seamlessly into a compelling and engrossing narrative. I quickly became invested in these stories as Maggie meets and falls in love with Leo, an Italian prisoner of war, and Niamh struggles with fertility and identity issues. Their lives are realistic, their relationships relatable, and their stories are both hopeful and heartbreaking.
Something I really like about the story is the universal themes. For example, a common thread in both of the author’s books focuses on seeing things from different points of view. Maggie reflects on Leo’s captivity and treatment and compares him to her brother, who is also a soldier in the war albeit on the opposing side. She sees how these men are more alike than they are different, and she questions why some people are treated differently than others. It’s a strong and thought-provoking message about humanity, equality, and empathy.
Both Niamh and Maggie’s stories address the inequities and struggles of womanhood, the need for autonomy, and the challenges people face regardless of the time period. And let me tell you, some parts of the story made my heart melt, and other parts made it break. It evokes all kinds of emotions, and as the pieces between the two stories slowly come together, I found myself hoping beyond hope that there would be a happy resolution for the characters I came to love.
A deeply moving story about love, loss, prejudice, and so much more, Strange Arithmetic is a brilliant read and one I highly recommend to fans of historical fiction and romance. Special thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Iron and Fire is a fascinating story of one woman’s experiences during one of the most brutal wars in Massachusetts history. Heartbreaking and hopefulIron and Fire is a fascinating story of one woman’s experiences during one of the most brutal wars in Massachusetts history. Heartbreaking and hopeful, the story reveals the harsh and brutal realities of Puritan New England during King Phillip’s War. As a life-long resident of New England, I found the rich and authentic history of the story fascinating. I haven’t read many books set during this time period, yet the author’s writing immersed me right into 17th century Massachusetts and all its complexities.
The story is told from both Verity and Kit’s perspectives, which I really liked. Even as they grow closer, Kit and Verity’s journeys are different, and it’s fascinating to see how each deals with the obstacles and struggles put in their paths. Both are such strong and resilient protagonists who struggle to fit into society. They are idealistic and unconventional, which doesn’t endear them to this rigid and constricting world.
Though she acknowledges the benefits of life in Massachusetts, Verity is a young woman who desperately misses her old life and the freedom, comfort, and happiness she no longer has. An educated, opinionated, and strong woman ahead of her time, Verity doesn’t blindly follow the dictates of society, much to the dismay and anger of her step-father. Rather, she questions and stands by her principles, even when they conflict with society’s expectations. Verity has strong opinions about life, the war, and their supposed enemies, all of which, if known, could put her at great risk. However, her experiences in Taunton, including seeing people harshly and unfairly punished, hearing of unnecessary and brutal battles, and witnessing the death of a young woman, only reaffirm her feelings. I loved her journey as she tries to follow her heart, fight for justice, and traverse a new world that is vastly different from her old life.
Much like Verity, Kit is often torn between duty and his beliefs. He is a richly developed character, as are the other characters in the novel. I love that the author created so many unique and compelling characters and relationships, including the wonderful bond Verity has with her sister, the complicated connection Kit has with a father figure, and Verity’s relationship with her family and other people in her town. The characters and relationships are complex and layered and add to the richness of the novel.
The forbidden romance between Verity and Kit is, of course, one of my favorite parts of the story. I love a good romance, and Verity and Kit have an amazing connection and a wonderfully slow-building love story. Kit and Verity accept each other completely, which is rare for both of them and only adds to their chemistry. They appreciate the parts of each other that society deems improper or unsuitable. However, so many obstacles stand in their way, and they have to decide if their love is worth fighting for. There’s another love story that I enjoyed too, though it is very different from Verity and Kit’s. Verity’s sister Hannah has a wonderful love match, and her relationship with a local man is heartwarming.
A compelling story of love, life, and perseverance, Iron and Fire is a powerful read. It’s a perfect mix of history, drama, and romance and is the type of book that stays with you long after reading it. I loved the layered and dynamic characters, the history, and the poignant messages about life, love, war, prejudice, religion, and more. I would definitely recommend this book to readers of historical fiction and romance and am thankful to the author for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own....more
Girls Before Earls is an entertaining and layered historical romance with great messages about family, grief, society, and love. Miss Hazel Lively is Girls Before Earls is an entertaining and layered historical romance with great messages about family, grief, society, and love. Miss Hazel Lively is a strong, independent woman who has devoted her life to helping young girls. Adamant that all girls, regardless of social class, deserve the same opportunities, Hazel opens a school to girls of all social stations. A lover of books and learning, Hazel is determined to make her school a success, and when the Earl of Bladenton enrolls his niece, it seems her prospects are looking up. However, Blade’s niece Kitty is a handful, and Hazel’s feelings for Blade are less than professional.
Blade doesn’t believe in love. Determined to enter a marriage of convenience, Blade intends to leave Kitty in Hazel’s capable hands so that he can ensure his engagement to a woman of the ton. However, when Hazel makes his involvement in Kitty’s life part of their arrangement, Blade finds himself returning to Bellhaven Academy to visit Kitty and developing feelings for the proper and intelligent headmistress.
Though very different, Hazel and Blade both keep people at a distance. For different reasons, neither let anyone get too close, and neither are looking for love. Hazel is committed to her school, and Blade has been burned by love in the past, which swore him off love forever. On top of that, they are from different social classes, they live in different places, and they have different goals. However, this couple has explosive chemistry from their first meeting, and their feelings are undeniable (as much as they try to deny them!). Theirs is a case of opposites attract, and these opposites have an amazing connection. Their budding relationship is equal parts sweet, romantic, fun, angst-filled, and sensual.
I love the found family aspect of the story and how Hazel connects with other motherless women. She, Poppy ( local woman), and Kitty all lost their mothers at a young age, and this creates a bond between them. They can relate to each other and understand each other because they are all motherless daughters. At one point in the story, Poppy asks if the other’s ever wonder how different their lives would be if their mothers were still alive. I found this scene really powerful and relatable. I lost my mother eleven years ago, and I often wonder how my life would be different if she were still here. The author does a wonderful job of showing how the loss of a beloved parent changes a person, and the character’s thoughts about grief and loss are relatable, realistic, and powerful. I also love that Kitty, Poppy, and Hazel find support in each other and form their own family or sisterhood.
I also love how Blade and Kitty grow closer as the story progresses. At the beginning of the novel, Kitty and Blade barely know each other. Estranged from Kitty’s parents, Blade is stunned to learn that he was chosen to care for her, and he struggles to connect with his difficult niece. However, with Hazel’s help, Kitty and Blade begin to develop a bond and a mutual regard for each other. This relationship changes both of them for the better.
Girls Before Earls (love that title!) is an entertaining, romantic, and sweet story with great characters, a beautiful seaside setting, and wonderful messages. The story examines some thought-provoking topics, including the unfair expectations put on different social classes, the consequences of loss and betrayal, the importance of honor and reputation, and the difficulties of being a woman during this time period. I wholly recommend this book to lovers of historical romance and am excited to read the next book in the Rogues to Lovers series. Thanks so much to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Paperbacks, and Anna Bennett for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review....more
The Living and the Lost is a complex, layered, and moving story that offers a unique perspective on post-war Germany. The author’s writing, especiallyThe Living and the Lost is a complex, layered, and moving story that offers a unique perspective on post-war Germany. The author’s writing, especially the imagery and use of flashbacks, immerses you into the protagonist’s journey. The story shows the devastating effects of the war, both physical and emotional, and the fear, anger, destruction, and desperation left behind.
Millie and her brother David managed to get out of Berlin at the start of the war and lived in the United States, but they were separated from their parents and younger sister and have no idea what happened to them. Now Millie and David have both returned to Berlin to help with the post-war de-Nazification efforts and to find out what happened to their parents.
Millie is charged with interviewing people for publishing roles. This might not be the best job for a woman whose guilt and shame over the secret she carries, as well as her hatred for Germans and Germany, defines her. David is a soldier for the American military, though his specific role is unclear for much of the novel.
Post-war Berlin is chaotic, dangerous, and broken, and the author describes the war’s devastating aftermath vividly. Feldman skillfully weaves the past and the present together to create stories within stories. Flashbacks to Millie and David’s time in America and other characters’ experiences during the war slowly reveal what happened to Millie and David, and what led to their separation from their parents and younger sister. Their story, as well as the myriad of other stories in the book, show the horrors and devastation of the war. It also talks about racism and how anti-Semitism permeated all aspects of their lives even when they lived in America and after the war.
All of the characters are survivors, and they struggle with their own demons and go through their own trials and tribulations. Their stories are painful and devastating, and yet there is a glimpse of hope too. It’s an interesting juxtaposition because in the midst of this tragedy and suffering, there are some moving and heart-warming times. For example, Millie experiences a slow-building romance in the story, which is wonderful. Millie goes through so much, and I think her relationship with her love interest helped her grow, heal, and become a little more understanding.
The story explores so many conflicting and confusing emotions experienced by the survivors of the war – guilt, fear, sadness, relief, happiness, anger – and it makes you think about some really thought-provoking questions. How do you find happiness and move on when so many have suffered? How do you move forward? How do you get past the hate and guilt? What d you do when you are living but lost?
A moving story about guilt, forgiveness, and figuring out how to move on when all hope feels lost, this is a powerful and poignant read that I won’t soon forget. I’m so thankful to St. Martin’s Griffin for sending a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
When Will Hart, the Duke of Ashmore, travels to the family lands in Cornwall at his sisters’ request, he never expects to run into the woman who witneWhen Will Hart, the Duke of Ashmore, travels to the family lands in Cornwall at his sisters’ request, he never expects to run into the woman who witnessed his broken engagement. Madeline Ravenwood is equally stunned when she is tasked with convincing Will to fix his eye-sore home before a special visit by Princess Beatrice. So much rides on Princess Beatrice’s endorsement, including the success of her family’s business, but the more time Maddie spends with Will, the more she questions her priorities. Will’s feelings for Maddie grow stronger as they spend their days together, but can he convince Maddie that they have a future together when social constraints and expectations threaten to keep them apart?
The majority of the story takes place in Haven’s Cove, a seaside community where Madeline lives. A small community where everyone knows everyone else, Haven’s Cove is vividly depicted, and I can see why Maddie loves it so much. It sounds so beautiful and is the perfect backdrop for the story.
Maddie is a hardworking, generous, and kind woman. She is independent and very different from the women Will is accustomed to interacting with. Maddie is very involved in her community and is on numerous committees, including the one preparing for Princess Beatrice’s visit. So much rides on this visit, and Maddie is hoping that it will boost the economy and garner more recognition for the nursery she inherited from her parents. Maddie is often conflicted between her responsibilities and her desires, and this proves true when it comes to how she feels for Will.
Will is super swoon-worthy in a grumpy kind of way. At the start of the story, his life revolves around restoring his family name and providing his younger sisters with a secure future. He is intense, and people see him as rigid, heartless, and unpleasant. Leaving his duties behind, leaving the ton and polite society, and even leaving the pressures of being the eldest brother responsible for the well-being of his younger sisters gives him the opportunity to be himself. He finally has a reprieve and doesn’t even realize how much he needs it. Will changes so much as the story progresses, as does Maddie. They definitely bring out the best in each other and encourage each other to live their best lives. I love how they both come to realize what is truly important.
The love story between Will and Maddie is fantastic. They have such amazing chemistry, and I like how they learn more about themselves and each other as their relationship progresses. They have a lot in common and relate to each other well, even though they are from different social classes and have lived very different lives. For example, both characters have had responsibilities thrust upon them, and neither had much say in their futures. These commonalities connect them on a deep level. On top of that, their chemistry and romance are so swoon-worthy!
Duke Gone Rogue is a great start to what promises to be a fun new historical romance series! It’s an entertaining read with well-layered characters, and the love story is romantic, angst-filled, and a bit steamy. I’m so thankful to Avon, NetGalley, and Christy Carlyle for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review....more
Out Front the Following Sea is a historical novel that follows Ruth Miner as she fights to survive in 17th century New England. This book moved me in Out Front the Following Sea is a historical novel that follows Ruth Miner as she fights to survive in 17th century New England. This book moved me in ways that I didn’t expect. I don’t know if it is because the story takes place in New England where I’ve lived for my entire life, or if it’s because of the strong female protagonist whose story is so unbelievably compelling, or if it is because of the rich imagery and history, but I fell in love with this unique and engrossing story.
Ruth Miner is a survivor – brave, strong, fierce, and fearless. An unconventional girl in a world that thrives on conformity is never safe, as Ruth knows too well. She is a woman ahead of her time with desires that are forbidden in a strict, patriarchal society that demands submission, especially among females. No matter what happens, Ruth never gives up, and I admire her perseverance and fighting spirit, especially considering the insurmountable obstacles she faces.
Heartbreaking and yet hopeful, the story reveals the brutal and harsh realities of 17th century New England. As a life-long resident of New England, I found the rich history of the story fascinating. The deeply researched and historically authentic world is vivid and immersive, and it captivated me from the first pages. New England is on the cusp of war, and the characters are on different sides of it. I like that the story offers perspectives from different sides of the multitude of conflicts going on at this time, as it provides a well-rounded view of Ruth’s world and the people who inhabit it.
The book also highlights the lack of options for women during this time and how devalued people were because of their gender and race. This is particularly evident as Ruth makes unlikely friends who prove more honorable and just than the townspeople who tout these qualities. It’s an interesting juxtaposition, as many of the people Ruth should be able to trust are hypocrites and are often less trustworthy and more vicious than those who are shunned from society.
Few people understand and accept Ruth, though she does make several allies throughout her journey. However, Owen, a young man that has known Ruth since childhood, accepts her unequivocally. Owen suffers as much as Ruth throughout the story, yet his loyalty to her remains. His character, as well as many of the other characters in the novel, is well-layered, dynamically developed, and compelling.
And the romance? I loved it! It’s heartbreaking and uplifting and devastating and hopeful. It’s everything! Two people bound by tragedy find home with each other, yet they are repeatedly torn apart. This couple went on an epic journey (both together and apart) riddled with obstacles, and I couldn’t get enough of their story. I must admit, they broke my heart on more than one occasion, and I so wanted them to find some happiness together. Their deep and profound love story isn’t always pretty, but it is honest, complex, breathtaking, and absolutely epic!
An amazing story of love, perseverance, and survival, Out Front the Following Sea is both dark and hopeful. A wonderful mix of action, suspense, history, and romance, this is a story that will stay with you a long time after finishing it. I’m so thankful to Leah Angstman, Regal House Publishing, and Lori Hettler at TNBBC for a copy of this amazing book in exchange for my honest review....more
This is my first Rebecca Yarros novel, and it certainly won’t be my last. The Things We Leave Unfinished is a captivating and immersive read that intrThis is my first Rebecca Yarros novel, and it certainly won’t be my last. The Things We Leave Unfinished is a captivating and immersive read that introduces two unforgettable romances. The story switches between the present day and the days of World War II seamlessly and with distinct narration and characterization in both.
I loved Scarlett and Jameson’s epic love story, set amidst the chaos of war. They had a once in a lifetime love that defied so many obstacles. War, distance, and family expectations continually threatened their happily-ever-after. They met at a time when everything was uncertain, and they proved that their love was lasting and true.
Though I love their classic, timeless tale, the contemporary romance between Scarlett and Noah stood out for me. The enemies to lovers trope is one of my favorites, and I loved the way Scarlett and Noah’s relationship developed. They have amazing chemistry and a shared love of Georgia’s great-grandmother. I love their witty banter, fun and revealing texts, and their feelings for each other. Noah and Georgia are as drawn together as Scarlett and Jameson were all those years ago, even though their lives are very different.
As Georgia heals from a failed marriage and tries to redefine herself as a newly single and independent woman, she also has to deal with the loss of her great-grandmother and the subsequent publication of Scarlett’s most treasured story. Add Noah, the arrogant, wealthy, ridiculously handsome, and charming author who wants to finish Scarlett’s story, as well as a demanding and greedy mother, and Georgia’s life is turned totally upside down.
Though their lives are very different and take place in different decades, there are several similarities between the characters in each. I found it interesting how much Georgia and Noah paralleled the older couple. Like Scarlett, Georgia has a turbulent and toxic relationship with all but one female in her family, and Georgia’s family has self-serving expectations, much like Scarlett’s. The women are both independent and intelligent and willing to take risks in order to be true to themselves.
Unlike the women, Noah and Jameson both have larger and more loving connections with their families. The men are both strong and confident and willing to put their hearts on their sleeves to show their women how in love they are. Both couples have strong connections and love deeply, and their use of correspondence helps to strengthen and deepen their bonds.
I also love the exploration of different kinds of love. Sisterly bonds, passionate but short love affairs, deep and true love, and familial love abound throughout the story. I love the messages about love and life and the bonds of family and think Yarros did an exceptional job of highlighting the variety of fulfilling relationships in life. No love is the same, and the author explores this idea powerfully and poignantly.
This is a heart-warming, romantic, and heart-breaking read that took me on an emotional roller coaster ride, and I enjoyed every minute of it. From the harsh realities of war to the painful loss of one you love to the hope of new love, Yarros takes the reader on an epic and unforgettable journey. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Entangled, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review....more
A well-paced historical romance with great characters, Queen of My Hart begins when Dexter, determined to marry into a title, makes a bet with ViscounA well-paced historical romance with great characters, Queen of My Hart begins when Dexter, determined to marry into a title, makes a bet with Viscount Alderley, a man that whipped him as a child and disrespects him as an adult. Though he wins the gamble, his plan to marry Alderley’s daughter Elizabeth backfires when Alderley presents his eldest, illegitimate daughter, Meggie.
Meggie has no relationship with her father and is stunned when he comes to force her to marry a stranger. When he threatens all she holds dear, Meggie has no choice but to marry Dexter, but she decides to make the best of an unfortunate situation in order to protect those she cares about. She never expects to develop feelings for the brash and brutally honest man she married, nor does Dexter expect to become smitten by the lovely Meggie. But with secrets from their past in the way, can this couple ever give in to their feelings and learn to trust each other?
Meggie is such a remarkable character. She is kind and friendly, and she cares deeply. Not overly experienced in the ways of high society, Meggie often makes social blunders. She is a woman who has been through a lot, including abandonment and living a life of heartbreak and betrayal. However, she still has this unbreakable resilience and optimism.
Dexter is very different from Meggie. Closed off and brutally honest, he holds people at a distance. He’s a successful and ambitious man, but even his own siblings can’t break through his tough exterior. Dexter is hard-working and determined to elevate his station in society, but he doesn’t nurture some of the most important relationships in his life until he meets Meggie.
Both Dexter and Meggie have trust issues, and since their marriage started under unconventional circumstances, they struggle to fully open up to each other. It’s clear that they have feelings for each other, but abandonment issues and fear of rejection hinder them. It was lovely to see them slowly connect and learn to open up to each other.
I enjoyed this historical romance. The characters are well-developed and interesting, and the romance is filled with chemistry. There are times when I wanted to shake Dexter and knock some sense into him, and I didn’t love the abundance of predatory men, but Meggie and the romance made up for it. Thanks so much to Netgalley, Dragonblade Publishing, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review....more
The Resistance Girl is a fascinating piece of historical fiction about one woman’s search for truth. When Juliana discovers a mysterious photo among hThe Resistance Girl is a fascinating piece of historical fiction about one woman’s search for truth. When Juliana discovers a mysterious photo among her mother’s possessions, she is immediately intrigued. Is the beautiful and glamourous woman on the arm of a Nazi officer her grandmother? Could this be part of the reason that Juliana doesn’t know much about her family’s secretive past? Determined to uncover the truth, Juliana decides to travel to France to learn more about her Maman’s life.
Alternating between the past and the present, Juliana and Sylvie’s stories slowly unfold. A young girl who dreams of fame, Sylvie travels to Paris and seeks fame as an actress. She leads a successful career in film before the war, and then uses her fame to get closer to the Nazi’s and learn their secrets. Condemned as a Nazi collaborator, Sylvie’s life is irrevocably changed.
After Juliana, a successful costume designer, finds the alarming pictures of Sylvie with Nazis, she determines to learn more about her grandmother. What does Juliana really know about her grandmother? Was she a Nazi sympathizer, or was there more to her complicated past? The more Juliana digs into the mystery, the more she must reevaluate all she knows about her family. The dual narratives work so well in this story and serve to highlight the growth and character development of both Sylvie and Juliana.
An intricately woven story with an interesting plot, the novel is both heart-breaking and heart-warming. I enjoyed learning more about Sylvie’s past and the complexities of war. This is a woman who grew up in a convent and became a famous film star. She lived a glamorous life in the spot-light until war hit. Sylvie is faced with many obstacles and moral decisions, and her journey is fascinating. Hated by many and seen as a traitor, Sylvie is so much more than she seems, and she is quite underestimated.
A story of love, bravery, secrets, and family, The Resistance Girl is a moving piece of WWII historical fiction with dual narratives and fascinating characters. Thanks so much to the author, Boldwood Books, and Rachel’s Random Resources for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review....more
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