The White Queen-A Fairytale Romance

white queen

Click on picture for program information!

Any who tuned in on Sunday night to the BBC would have caught this lovely new 10 part drama debuting with all the trappings of a good historical drama, including a forbidden romance, a country divided by war, intrigue in the Royal Court and even some sprinklings of magic.

The story is based on Philippa Gregory’s series The Cousins’ War and concerns the three women who acted behind the scenes of one of England’s most memorable battles: The War of the Roses. The first episode introduced us to the ‘White Queen’ aka Elizabeth who is one of the major characters on the York side of the battle. I enjoyed watching her and King Edward meet and fall in love even if it was rushed through.  They had great chemistry and you were really invested with their romance. Who doesn’t love a Cinderella style romance? I loved the secondary characters especially Elizabeth’s mum who is part villain and part hero.

Of course they were some downsides especially with regards to the production value which could have been higher. Everything seemed a bit dull but then that was probably because we only got to see the poor side living their lives. I can’t wait to tune into the next episode where we hopefully get to meet more of the influential characters at the Court and to see more scenes between the newly wed Royal couple.

Here’s a quick video I made to celebrate my new favourite TV couple:

Enjoy!

Have you seen this new series yet? What did you think of it?

 

Published in: on June 19, 2013 at 1:52 PM  Comments (1)  
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Too busy to post!

Ok, I have one book review and the list of romances for June to get out but they may take a while. It’s the final week of uni and am super busy with assignments this week 😦 Will get it out to you guys as soon as I can 🙂

Historical Romance Addicts

Published in: on June 1, 2013 at 9:12 PM  Comments (1)  

Concerning Book Reviews…

Hi lovely subscribers and readers of my blog!

This is just to let you know that I won’t be able to review as many books as I used to mainly because of the cost and the fact that I am getting less free time on my hands, what with completing my final year of university and working two part time jobs.

But look forward to four new reviews on the latest books from Celeste Bradley, Sarah MacLean, Anna Randol and Anne Gracie!

Till next time!

Much love,

Historical Romance Addicts

Published in: on May 7, 2013 at 11:33 PM  Comments (4)  
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Romances Coming in May 2013!

Spring is upon us! Or if you live in Australia like I do, then winter is coming (get it? :P). Either way, here are some great new books to help you get through the month! Lots of old favorites releasing books this month so mark your calendars and get your money ready! 😀

1) Out May 1 *Book 1 in The Great Exhibition series* 

Follow the Heart

Summary:

Kate and Christopher Dearing’s lives turn upside down when their father loses everything in a railroad land speculation. The siblings are shipped off to their mother’s brother in England with one edict: marry money. 

At twenty-seven years old, Kate has the stigma of being passed over by eligible men many times—and that was before she had no dowry. Christopher would like nothing better than to make his own way in the world; and with a law degree and expertise in the burgeoning railroad industry, he was primed to do just that—in America.

Though their uncle tries to ensure Kate and Christopher find matrimonial prospects only among the highest echelon of British society, their attentions stray to a gardener and a governess.

While Christopher has options that would enable him to lay his affections where he chooses, he cannot let the burden of their family’s finances crush his sister. Trying to push her feelings for the handsome—but not wealthy— gardener aside, Kate’s prospects brighten when a wealthy viscount shows interest in her. But is marrying for the financial security of her family the right thing to do, when her heart is telling her she’s making a mistake?

Mandates . . . money . . . matrimony. Who will follow the heart?

Click cover for more info!

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2) Out May 6 (E-Novella!)

Ten Reasons

Summary:

A delightful eNovella from New York Times bestselling author Sabrina Jeffries about a young woman who learns that you can’t learn about love from a textbook.

In “Ten Reasons to Stay,” previously published in the anthology The School for Heiresses, lessons go far beyond etiquette and needlepoint. Eliza Crenshawe’s lesson is to look before she leaps. But when she discovers that her new guardian plans to marry her off without so much as a Season, she forgets all that. She flees—on a horse she unwittingly steals (oops!)—from Colin Hunt, a newly minted earl who wants nothing more than for her to go home…or stay forever.

Click cover for more info!

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3) Out May 7 *Book 2 of The Lonely Lords series*

Nicholas

Summary:

Nicholas Haddonfield has something to hide…

After a wild youth, Nicholas Haddonfield, Viscount Reston, has promised his ailing father he’ll finally take a bride, though doing so will force Nick to make impossible choices and face old, painful wounds.

Leah Lindsey is glad to find refuge from her own desperate situation in a marriage of convenience with the gallant viscount. But soon convenience is not enough, and Leah can’t understand why Nick remains so distant. What is he hiding, and will he never allow her into his heart?

Click cover for more info!

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4) Out May 7 *Book 1 in Marriage Mart series*

Wedding in Springtime

Summary:

Five minutes into Miss Eugenia Talbot’s presentation at court, notorious rogue Mr. William Grant made her laugh, ruining her debut. To hush up the scandal, Eugenia’s aunt hires a matchmaker to quickly find a suitor— anyone except the infamous William Grant—to help restore Eugenia’s reputation.

But amiable Eugenia shows a disturbing tendency to follow her heart, and is again caught in the company of notorious Grant.

When a traitor creeps closer, threatening to ruin more than just Eugenia’s reputation, her kindheartedness may be her ultimate undoing…

Click cover for more info!

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5) Out May 7 *Book 4 in Beau Monde Bachelor series*

Defies Duke

Summary:

The Naked Truth

Lady Vivian Worth knows perfectly well how to behave like a lady. But observing proper manners when there’s no one around to impress is just silly. Why shouldn’t she strip down to her chemise for a swim? When her betrothed arrives to finally meet her, Vivi will act every inch the lady—demure, polite, compliant. Everything her brother has promised the man. But until then, she’s going to enjoy her freedom…

A Revealing Discovery

Luke Forest, the newly named Duke of Foxhaven, wants nothing to do with his inheritance—or the bride that comes with it. He wants adventure and excitement, like the enchanting water nymph he’s just stumbled across. When he discovers the skinny-dipping minx is his intended, he reconsiders his plan to find Lady Vivian another husband. Because the idea of this vivacious woman in the arms of another man might be enough to drive him insane—or to the altar.

Click cover for more info!

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6) Out May 7 *Re-issue*

Beloved Enemy

Summary:

Daring and defiant, Virginia Courtney risks her life by transporting Royalist fugitives to safety. Until Colonel Alexander Marshall seizes her family’s land and takes her prisoner. But the fearless beauty arouses a passionate yearning that the honor-bound soldier has never before allowed himself to feel.

Irresistibly drawn to her handsome captor, Virginia cannot forget that he is also her most treacherous enemy. Yet with each caress, Alexander mounts a delicate assault on her senses, quelling all thoughts of rebellion–leaving her conscious of the perfection of his passion.

Torn between desire and duty, Virginia and Alexander become players in the most dangerous of games…where intrigue and betrayal rule the day and where love carries the inevitability of destiny.

Click cover for author website!

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7) Out May 21 *Book 2 in The Duchess Diaries series*

Pursue Princess

Summary:

An innocent lost in the woods . . .

The sensible solution to her family’s dire financial woes is for Lily Balfour to marry the Earl of Huntley, a wealthy widower handpicked by her matchmaking godmother, the Duchess of Roxburghe. Huntley is pleasant and attractive, the perfect candidate in every way. But Lily knows she’s in big trouble as soon as passionate, unprincipled Prince Wulfinski sweeps a hot, possessive glance over her.

Powerful and sexy, Wulfinski declares he will make her his—no matter the cost.

By his own account, Wulf is a pauper, barely able to afford his own cottage. Yet nothing will stop him from pursuing the elusive beauty with every cunning trick he can muster. But which is more important: power and money . . . or love everlasting? To make the right choice, both Wulf and Lily must trust their hearts, not just their heads, to lead them to the happiness they desire.

Click cover for more info!

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8) Out May 21

Reforming the Viscount

Summary:

To refuse him twice would be madness!

Viscount Rothersthorpe can’t tear his eyes from Lydia Morgan any more than he can calm the raging fury coursing through his veins. Is there no end to the irony? Come to town to find a wife, only to be taunted by the past?

Furtive glances across the ballroom are not helping to ease Lydia’s state of shock—the man who once uttered a marriage proposal as one might remark upon the weather has returned. But when he stuns her with a second, outrageous but now wickedly delicious proposal, it is clear that despite the rumors the rake from her past has not reformed!

Click cover for more info!

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9) Out May 21 *Book 1 in The Masquerade Club series*

Notoriety

Summary:

As the unacknowledged son of the lecherous Lord Westleigh, John “Rhys” Rhysdale was forced to earn a crust gambling on the streets. Now he owns the most thrilling new gaming establishment in London. Witnessing polite society’s debauchery and excess every night, Rhys prefers to live on its fringes, but a mysterious masked lady tempts him into the throng.

Lady Celia Gale, known only as Madame Fortune, matches Rhys card for card and kiss for stolen kiss. But the stakes are raised when Rhys discovers she’s from the very world he despises…The Masquerade Club.

Click cover for more info!

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10) Out May 28 *Book 4 in Spindle Cove series*

Any Duchess Will Do

Summary:

What’s a duke to do, when the girl who’s perfectly wrong becomes the woman he can’t live without?

Griffin York, the Duke of Halford, has no desire to wed this season–or any season–but his diabolical mother abducts him to “Spinster Cove” and insists he select a bride from the ladies in residence. Griff decides to teach her a lesson that will end the marriage debate forever. He chooses the serving girl.

Overworked and struggling, Pauline Simms doesn’t dream about dukes. All she wants is to hang up her barmaid apron and open a bookshop. That dream becomes a possibility when an arrogant, sinfully attractive duke offers her a small fortune for a week’s employment. Her duties are simple: submit to his mother’s “duchess training”… and fail miserably.

But in London, Pauline isn’t a miserable failure. She’s a brave, quick-witted, beguiling failure–a woman who ignites Griff’s desire and soothes the darkness in his soul. Keeping Pauline by his side won’t be easy. Even if Society could accept a serving girl duchess–can a roguish duke convince a serving girl to trust him with her heart?

Click cover for more info!

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11) Out May 28 *2 in 1 Book Reissue!*

Counterfeit Notorious

Summary:

A COUNTERFEIT BETROTHAL

Lady Sophia Bryant has no intention of marrying anytime soon. Her one desire is to reunite her parents, who have been estranged for fourteen years. Surely, if she happens to announce her betrothal—even a false one—they will be forced to see each other. Devilishly handsome Lord Francis Sutton seems perfect for such deceit, always agreeable to games of passion in which he has nothing to lose. The trap is set—if only Lady Sophia can keep her foolish heart from falling prey to her brilliant snares.

THE NOTORIOUS RAKE

Lord Edmund Waite is everything that Lady Mary Gregg despises: lewd, lascivious, mocking—the most incorrigible and successful rogue around. A bluestocking like her would never tempt a man whose taste runs to pretty playthings—so Mary is startled to find herself the object of Lord Edmund’s desires. Even more surprising is her reaction to his shocking advances. She may be a lady, but this man knows so well how to make her feel like a woman.

Click cover for more info!

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12) Out May 28 *Book 1 in Survivor’s Club series* (US Paperback Edition)

The Proposal

Summary:

Gwendoline, Lady Muir, has seen her share of tragedy. Content in a quiet life with friends and family, the young widow has no desire to marry again. But when Hugo, Lord Trentham, scoops her up in his arms after a fall, she feels a sensation that both shocks and emboldens her.

Hugo is a gentleman in name only: a war hero whose bravery earned him a title, a merchant’s son who inherited his wealth. He is happiest when working the land, but duty and title now demand that he finds a wife. Hugo doesn’t wish to court Gwen, yet he cannot resist her guileless manner, infectious laugh, and lovely face. He wants her, but will she have him?

The dour ex-military officer who so gallantly carried Gwen to safety is a man who needs a lesson in winning a woman’s heart. But through courtship and seduction, Gwen soon finds that with each kiss, and with every caress, Hugo captivates her more—with his desire, with his love, and with the promise of forever.

Click cover for more info!

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13) Out May 28 *Book 2 in Legendary Lovers series*

Lover Be Mine

Summary:

The last thing Sophie Fortin expects at a masquerade ball is a dazzling kiss from a pirate. Her desire quickly falters when she learns that her masked gentleman is devilishly scandalous Lord Jack, a member of the captivating Wilde clan—and a man she’s forbidden to acknowledge. But when Jack begins a breathtaking seduction, Sophie can barely resist.

Jack never imagined that the daughter of his family’s mortal enemy would awaken such fierce passion within him—until one unforgettable kiss changes his mind forever. Soon, Jack is hell-bent on winning Sophie’s hand, going so far as to abduct her to save her from marrying a rival nobleman. Determined to woo Sophie and her unyielding parents, Jack is faced with the one decision he’d sworn never to make. The secret heir to a prince, Jack has spurned his royal heritage for years . . . but for Sophie he’ll risk all to turn a legacy of heartbreak into love ever after.

Click cover for more info!

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14) Out May 28 *Sequel to How to Deceive a Duke*

Secret Life

Summary:

Lady Julia Leighton is engaged to a long-time family friend who doesn’t spark her passion, and at her betrothal ball she meets a seductive stranger who steals hot kisses—and much more—from the beautiful innocent.

Thomas Merritt is a thief of women’s hearts, and their expensive jewels. His steamy encounter with Lady Julia unexpectedly has him rethinking his wicked ways, but in the end, Thomas flees temptation.

When their paths cross years later, Julia has a secret she’s desperate to bury and Thomas is hiding something dangerous, but he needs her help to set things right. Can two lovers with dark pasts overcome their tangled history and rekindle their former love?

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15) Out May 28 *Book 2 in Brides of Redemption series*

Surrender to the Earl

Summary:

She wanted a favor, not a fiancé.

Audrey Blake’s impromptu plan-asking a visitor to help her take ownership of her rightful property-is unraveling in spectacular fashion. Robbed of her sight by a childhood fever, Audrey has been kept in virtual seclusion by her family. And now the enigmatic Robert Henslow, Earl of Knightsbridge, has complicated her scheme to gain independence, insisting they pretend to be engaged.

Duty brought Robert to Audrey’s doorstep. As for what makes him propose marriage…it might be guilt. Compassion. Or something far more urgent and unexpected. Their counterfeit union was supposed to be for Audrey’s benefit. Yet it’s Robert who yearns to prove to the intriguing Audrey how much they both have to gain by making it real-and convincing her to submit to the most blissful passion.

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16) Out May 28 *Book 5 in Eloisa’s Fairy Tales series*

Once Upon a Tower

Summary:

To win her love. . .

As an extremely wealthy laird, Gowan Stoughton, Duke of Kinross, can have any of the maidens at the ball he attends. The only problem is they are all English and Gowan is not so certain they are suitable. He is accustomed to the hard-working lasses from his Highlands, not these dainty noblewomen who spend their days drinking tea or some other such nonsense. But then he makes the acquaintance of Lady Edith Gilchrist. Utterly bewitched by the emerald-eyed beauty with lush golden locks, he knows he must have her.

He must free her from her tower. . .

“Edie” had the misfortune of being dreadfully ill at her debut ball and barely remembers what Gowan looks like. Even worse, she accepted his proposal the following day. Edie’s only true passion is playing music—until Gowan writes a scandalous letter and stirs the most irresistible desire. Yet when they marry, Edie realizes her husband needs a lesson and locks herself in a tower. Somehow Gowan must find a way to enter the tower and convince his new bride that she belongs in his arms.

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17) Out May 28 *Book 1 in Sinful Scoundrels series*

What a Wicked Earl Wants

Summary:

WILL A RAKE’S WICKED WAYS

Andrew Carrington, Earl of Bellingham, believes in being a gentleman, whether it’s fishing a soggy stranger out of the Thames or assisting a fetching lady into his bed. If the stranger becomes a friend and the lady a mistress, all the better. He certainly welcomes the opportunity to help Laura Davenport, a dazzling young widow with a rebellious stepson. Her gratitude, he hopes, will take an amorous form. But from the moment he sets foot in her drawing room, he gets far more than he bargained for… 

LEAD THE LADY ASTRAY?

It was a moment of desperation. On the brink of losing her stepson, Laura turned to the notorious Lord Bellingham for help. Suddenly she, a vicar’s daughter, is in the precarious position of resisting his tantalizing advances. How Bell earned his wicked reputation is clear; the surprise is how much more there is to him than the gossip sheets could possibly reveal. Now every moment with this dangerously desirable man puts Laura’s good name at risk-and promises pleasure unlike any she has ever known… 

Click cover for more info!

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18) Out May 28 *Re-issue!*

The Lady's Tutor

Summary:

Married young to a man hand-picked by her father, Elizabeth Petre is an ideal Victorian lady.  She has borne two sons and endured sixteen years of selfless duty in a passionless marriage.  Craving a man’s loving touch yet loyal to her wedding vows, Elizabeth is determined to seduce her coldly indifferent husband.  She knows of only one man who can teach her the erotic arts of love…

The bastard son of an English countess and an Arab sheik, Ramiel Devington was reared to embrace both Western culture and Eastern pleasure.  Scorned by society and challenged by prim Elizabeth’s request, he undertakes her instruction in the art of sensual delight. 

But when the lessons become a temptation neither can resist, Elizabeth is forced to choose between obligation and forbidden passion…

Click cover for more info!

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19) Out May 28

Diamonds

Summary:

When it comes to diamonds—like their men—some women prefer them rough…

Thanks to her grandfather’s complicated will, Miss Adela Ruffington, along with her mother and sisters, is about to lose her home and income to a distant cousin, the closest male heir to the Millingford title. For Adela, nothing could be more insulting—being denied her rightful inheritance for a randy scoundrel like Wilson, the very man who broke her heart following a lusty dalliance years ago.

Still smarting from the betrayal of his latest paramour, Wilson Ruffington never anticipates the intense desire Adela again stirs within him. Despite his wicked tongue and her haughty pride, their long-ago passion instantly reignites at a summer house party, the experience they’ve gained as adults only adding fuel to the flames.

Wilson and Adela are insatiable, but civility outside of the bedroom proves impossible. Determined to keep Adela in his bed, Wilson devises a ruse—a marriage of convenience that will provide her family with a generous settlement, as well as prevent scandalous whispers. Their plan works perfectly until family rivalries and intrigue threaten to destroy their arrangement…and the unspoken love blooming beneath it.

Click cover for more info!

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HAPPY MONTH OF READING! 😀

Shana Galen’s New Regency Spy Romance!

Following the success of her first book Lord and Lady Spy, Shana is back with another installment in this new series about Regency spy couples!

Check out the cover, blurb and details below!

Book 2 in Lord and Lady Spy series!

True SpiesClick cover to view author website!

Summary:

Winslow, an elite spy in Regency England, has managed to keep his identity secret from everyone—including his beloved wife Elinor. But his success with these covert affairs has taken a toll on their marriage, leaving Elinor to entertain the idea of a secret liaison with a rakish spy.

She believes that she will finally have the danger and excitement that her marriage has never afforded her—until things get too dangerous, and she ends up being kidnapped.

In this Regency romance, no one is who they seem—not even her own husband.

RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER 3, 2013

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Amazon page

Goodreads page

Will you be reading this new spy romance? 😀 Share and comment below!

Lord and Lady Spy by Shana Galen

Lord and Lady Spy

Setting: Regency

*Book 1 in Lord and Lady Spy series*

Summary:

No man can outsmart him…

Lord Adrian Smythe may appear a perfectly boring gentleman, but he leads a thrilling life as one of England’s most preeminent spies, an identity so clandestine even his wife is unaware of it. But he isn’t the only one with secrets…

She’s been outsmarting him for years…

Now that the Napoleonic wars have come to an end, daring secret agent Lady Sophia Smythe can hardly bear the thought of returning home to her tedious husband. Until she discovers in the dark of night that he’s not who she thinks he is after all…

Click cover for more info!

Review:

For all the press that surrounded this book, my expectations were suitably high. It was promoted as a Regency set Mr and Mrs Smith and I found that premise very intriguing as it seemed fresh and would make for a thrillingly romantic story. And while it certainly had it’s moments and was never too predictable, I still felt like it fell short of my expectations.

I loved the whole idea of a married couple who are both secretly spies keeping secrets from each other. Their relationship at the start of the book was passionate even though there were some issues revolving Sophia’s problems with having children. It already felt like they were in love with each other at the start of the book which to me kind of makes the whole plot a bit pointless. I would have liked it is theirs did start as a cold arranged marriage. But I’ll put this down to personal preference. Their main issue is letting each other in and opening their real selves which was nicely done.

I also loved Adrian’s character-he’s strong, protective and adorably clueless when it comes to dealing with his wife. Sophia didn’t stand out much to me although I did love her vulnerability about her ability to have children.

This is a romance for those who love a little more adventure and excitement in their books. It’s fast paced and the action scenes are very well written. It doesn’t get boring and it was good fun reading them trying to solve the murder mystery while getting to know each other all over again. I did feel like the great action scenes were at the expense of the romance which wasn’t as developed as it could have been. One minute they don’t like each other and next second they’re all over each other with no prelude or explanation. It’s like whattt?

Still, this was a very entertaining read and great for those looking for more variety in the romance genre. If you like your books fast paced, unpredictable and more plot driven, then this is the book for you!

Sensuality Rating: HOT ;)

Verdict: Recommended. Fresh and fun!

Rating: 4 and a half out of 5 stars

Romances Coming in April 2013!

Sorry for the late update! Been busy with uni assignments! 🙂
Here are this month’s top new reads!

1) Out April 2 *Book 3 in Veiled Seduction series*

Sweet Madness

Summary:

Ever since her husband’s sudden and tragic death, Lady Penelope Bridgeman has committed herself to studying the maladies of the mind, particularly the trauma of soldiers of the Napoleonic Wars. It is this expertise that brings the Marquess of Bromwich’s family to her door.

Gabriel Devereaux’s unexpected and unpredictable episodes are unlike any Penelope has studied. The once proud soldier has been left shaken and withdrawn, but Penelope manages to build a fragile trust between them. Strangely, Gabriel seems completely lucid when not in the grips of his mania, and during the calm bouts between, she is surprised by how much she is drawn to him.

Despite his own growing feelings, Gabriel knows that he is fit for no one and is determined to keep Penelope away from his descent into madness. But even though she knows firsthand the folly of loving a broken man, Penelope cannot stop herself from trying to save him, no matter the cost.

Click cover for more info!

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2) Out April 2 *Anthology*

Bridgertons

Summary:

Once upon a time, a historical romance author created a family . . .

But not just any family. Eight brothers and sisters, assorted in-laws, sons and daughters, nieces and nephews (not to mention an overweight corgi) plus an irrepressible matriarch who’s a match for any of them . . . These are the Bridgertons: less a family than a force of nature. Through eight bestselling novels, readers laughed, cried, and fell in love. But they wanted more.

And so the readers asked the author . . .

What happens next? Does Simon ever read his father’s letters? Do Francesca and Michael become parents? Who would win in a Pall Mall grudge match?

Does “The End” really have to be the end?

Now, with The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After, Julia Quinn delivers eight sexy, funny, and heartwarming “2nd Epilogues” plus a bonus story about none other than the wise and witty matriarch Violet Bridgerton herself. So get to know the Bridgertons all over again—because Happily Ever After is a whole lot of fun.

Click cover for more info!

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3) Out April 3 *Book 1 of Lonely Lords series*

Darius

Summary:

Darius is a gripping and remarkable tale of desperation, devotion, and redemption from award-winning New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes. Her gorgeous writing and lush Regency world will stay with you long after you turn the final page…

With his beloved sister tainted by scandal, his widowed brother shattered by grief , and his funds cut off, Darius Lindsey sees no option but to sell himself—body and soul. Until the day he encounters lovely, beguiling Lady Vivian Longstreet, whose tenderness and understanding wrap his soul in a grace he knows he’ll never deserve…

Click cover for more info!

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4) Out April 2 *Book 5 in Wherlocke series*

Tempted

Summary:

Lady Olympia Wherlocke has the gift of foresight. When Lady Agatha Mallam asks Olympia to locate her brother so he can rescue her from an arranged marriage, she knows exactly where to find Lord Brant Mallam, Earl of Fieldgate. What happens next is something she never envisioned…

Since his betrothed died, Lord Brant Mallam has drowned his sorrow with wine and women. His dissolute ways have only emboldened his calculating mother. But with the help of the enchanting Olympia, he concocts a daring plan to end his mother’s devious designs for his sister. While each step in their bold scheme works to perfection, the sins of the past could unravel a growing desire that neither Olympia or Brant can control…

Click cover for Goodreads page! (Website N/A)

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5) Out April 2

Let It Be Me

Summary:

London weather is chilly—and the social scene even more so.
Luckily, Bridget Forrester is just getting warmed up…

Bridget longs to meet a gentleman who doesn’t mention her beautiful sister upon shaking her hand. But since being branded a shrew after a disastrous social season, Bridget knows she’s lucky to even have a man come near her. It’s enough to make a lady flee the country…

So Bridget heads to Venice for music lessons with the renowned Italian composer Vincenzo Carpenini, with whom she’s been corresponding. But not only is Carpenini not expecting her, he doesn’t even remember her! His friend, theater owner Oliver Merrick, does, though. And one look into her tantalizing green eyes has him cursing his impulsive letter-writing, which brought her across the continent. Yet before Merrick can apologize, Carpenini has ordered her away.

Little does either man know that they will soon be embroiled in a wager that will require the beautiful Miss Forrester’s help—or that there’ll be far more at stake in this gamble than money…  

Click cover for more info!

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6) Out April 5

Ideal

Summary:

When heiress Sophie Ravel finds herself in a compromising situation, notorious Richard Crawford, Viscount Bingfield, swoops in and saves her reputation! She might have escaped the attentions of one undesirable, but will Richard’s protection expose her to even more scandal?

Richard curses his impetuousness at offering a betrothal in the heat of the moment! He gladly accepts Sophie’s terms that their engagement remains a pretence until, quite by chance, he unlocks his shy fiancée’s passionate nature. Now nothing will steer him from wedding—then bedding—his blushing bride…

Click cover for more info!

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7) Out April 5

UnusualSummary:

Heiress Sarah Hardcastle is convinced her plan to escape the unwanted attentions of a fortune hunter is foolproof. Buried deep in the countryside, and with a whole new identity as prim governess Miss Goodrum, Sarah is looking forward to the quiet life for once.

But her careful masquerade is shaken when she meets her pupils’ mentor, Lord Rupert Myers. An incorrigible flirt, Rupert has the looks and the charm to make Sarah blush all the way down to her high-buttoned neckline – and the determination to uncover what’s beneath! Sarah will need her wits about her if she’s to resist Rupert’s roguish ways and keep her secret intact….

Click cover for more info!

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8) Out April 23 *Book 3 in Legends of St. Dwynwen series*

Marrying Season

Summary:

Genevieve Stafford, the younger sister of the Earl of Rawdon (A Summer Seduction), is an icy but beautiful aristocrat. Determined to make the sort of marital alliance expected of a woman of her station, she becomes engaged to the scion of another noble family. However, when Genevieve finds herself entangled in scandal, her fiancé breaks things off. Shamed, she has no recourse but to retreat to the family estate…until her brother’s friend, Sir Myles Thorwood, offers to marry Genevieve and salvage her reputation.

Genevieve expects to have a loveless marriage of convenience, but the handsome, charming Myles has other things in mind. As the two of them work to discover who engineered the scandal that could have ruined Genevieve’s life, Myles shows Genevieve just what it means to be man and wife. Genevieve finds it difficult to resist the passion Myles evokes in her, but can she risk losing her heart to a man she thinks sees their union as only a duty?

Click cover for more info!

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9) Out April 23 *Book 2 in Redgraves series*

What a Lady Needs

Summary:

Lady Katherine Redgrave has one mission—to find her deceased father’s journals, which may hold the key to a traitorous conspiracy that puts Kate’s family in danger. Kate vows to let no obstacle stand in her way…but when she meets Simon Ravenbill, Marquis of Singleton, her attention is diverted as the sinfully handsome nobleman tempts her beyond reason.

Simon has a mission of his own: to uncover the truth about the secret society he believes murdered his brother. All he needs is to get to the Redgrave journals before Kate does. The solution is simple—he’ll romance the fiery beauty in hopes of distracting her from her quest, all while covertly searching for the diaries himself. Yet what begins as a charade soon becomes an all-consuming desire…one that could lead them down the most dangerous path of all.

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10) Out April 23 *Book 2 in Ladies of Lantern Street series*

The Mystery Woman

Summary:

Under the plain gray skirts of Miss Beatrice Lockwood’s gown, a pistol waits at the ready. For Beatrice is a paid companion on a secret mission—and with a secret past—and she must be prepared to fight for her life at any moment.

Yet she is thrown oddly off guard by the fierce-looking man who joins her in foiling a crime outside a fancy ball—and then disappears into the shadows, leaving only his card. His name is Joshua Gage, and he claims to know Beatrice’s employers. Beyond that, he is an enigma with a hypnotically calm voice and an ebony-and-steel cane. . . .

Joshua, who carries out clandestine investigations for the Crown, is equally intrigued. He has a personal interest in Miss Lockwood, a suspected thief and murderer, not to mention a fraudster who claims to have psychical powers. The quest to discover her whereabouts has pulled him away from his mournful impulses to hurl himself into the sea—and engaged his curiosity about the real Beatrice Lockwood, whose spirit, he suspects, is not as delicate as her face and figure.

He does know one thing, though: This flame-haired beauty was present the night Roland Fleming died at the Academy of the Occult. Guilty or not, she is his guide to a trail of blood and blackmail, mesmerism and madness—a path that will lead both of them into the clutches of a killer who calls himself the Bone Man. . . .

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11) Out April 23

The Beauty Within

Summary:

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

Considered the plain, clever one in her family, Lady Cressida Armstrong knows her father has given up on her ever marrying. But who needs a husband when science is the only thing to set Cressie’s pulse racing?

Disillusioned artist Giovanni di Matteo is setting the ton abuzz with his expertly executed portraits. Once his art was inspired; now it’s only technique. Until he meets Cressie….

Challenging, intelligent and yet insecure, Cressie is the one whose face and body he dreams of capturing on canvas. In the enclosed, intimate world of his studio, Giovanni rediscovers his passion as he awakens hers….

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12) Out April 23 *Book 1 in The Sinner and the Saint series*

The Greatest of Sins

Summary:

Giving in to temptation would be the ruin of them all!

Having spent years believing a lie about his birth, Dr. Samuel Hastings has been condemned to a personal hell of his desire’s making—his sinful thoughts of the one woman he can never touch would damn his soul for eternity.

Lady Evelyn Thorne is engaged to the very suitable Duke of St. Aldric when a shocking truth is revealed—and now Sam will play every bit of the devil to seduce the woman he thought would always be denied him!

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13) Out April 23

Tarnished

Summary:

The Secret Life of Miss Phyllida Hurst

Having survived the scandal of her birth with courage and determination, the beautiful Phyllida has reached a precarious balance within the ton. And in just one moment Ashe Herriard, Viscount Clere, blows her world and her carefully made plans to pieces.

Brought up in vibrant Calcutta, Ashe is disdainful of polite London society, but something about Phyllida intrigues him. There’s a mystery surrounding her. A promise of secrets and a hint of scandal—more than enough to entice him!

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14) Out April 23

Hesitant

Summary:

On the frontier of a new life…

Tired and hungry after two days of traveling, Susanna Hopkins is just about at the end of her tether when her train finally arrives in Cheyenne. She’s bound for a new life in a Western garrison town. Then she discovers she doesn’t even have enough money to pay for the stagecoach! Luckily for her, the compassionate Major Joseph Randolph is heading in the same direction.

As a military surgeon, Joe is used to keeping his professional distance. But, despite Susanna’s understated beauty, he’s drawn to this woman who carries loss and pain equal to his own and has a heart that is just as hesitant and wary….

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15) Out April 30 *Book 2 in Dangerous Rogues series*

Midnight Temptations

Summary:

Tristan Bradley, the notorious Marquess of Castleigh, is a danger to any woman’s reputation. Devastatingly handsome and devilishly seductive, he delights in the challenge of a lovely new conquest—especially when she’s engaged to a man he despises. But when this particular young lady asks him to dance, Tristan realizes he may not be the only one playing a game.

Defiantly bold and disarmingly beautiful, Lady Charlotte Lindsey will do anything to break free from her loathsome fiancé—even destroy her good name to do it. What better way to seal the deal than a tryst with Lord Tristan, who’s led many a girl to ruin? But when Charlotte looks into his eyes—and Tristan takes her in his arms—all of their schemes melt away…because the heart has a plan of its own.

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16) Out April 30 *Book 3 in Chattan Curse series*

Devil's Heart

Summary:

Lady Margret Chattan, one of the most desirable women in all of England, has no interest whatsoever in marriage. When her brother’s lives are put in danger, she travels to the Scottish Highlands, intent on saving them. There she meets Heath Macnachtan, who is trying to find out who murdered his own brother. Together, they team up to investigate the powerful curse that is behind the deaths, but instead find themselves falling in love.

Exceptionally entertaining and charming, The Devil’s Heart mixes a well-crafted love story with complex characters and pulse-pounding adventure.

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17) Out April 30 *Book 3 in The Royal Trilogy*

Prince's Bride

Summary:

Handsome Prince Nicholas of Petersbourg is an infamous ladies’ man, but even he doesn’t expect a flirtation at a masquerade ball to turn into abduction. Especially with a jailor as temptingly beautiful as the young woman on the other side of the locked door …

Veronique Montagne was desperate when she agreed to kidnap a prince to settle her profligate father’s gambling debts, and certainly didn’t imagine that her prisoner might sweet-talk her into helping him escape. Saving her home is now the least of her troubles, especially when the attraction simmering between her and the angry prince blazes into true passion.

To save them both from scandal, Nicholas proposes a convenient marriage—but when a vengeful plot threatens to tear them apart, he discovers that Veronique’s love is what he desires most of all…

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18) Out April 30 *Book 3 in The Lost Lords of Pembrook Trilogy*

Lord of Wicked Intentions

Summary:

Lord Rafe Eason may be of noble blood, but survival taught him to rely only on himself and to love no one. Yet when he sets his eyes on Miss Evelyn Chambers, and earl’s illegitimate daughter, he is determined to have her, if only as his mistress.

After her father’s death, Evelyn Chambers never imagined she would be sold to the highest bidder, yet circumstances give her little choice except to accept the lord’s indecent proposal. Rafe is wealthy, as well as ruthless. Yet his coldness belies deep passion and deeper secrets. If she must be his, Evelyn intends to lay bare everything the Lord of Pembrook is hiding. But dark discoveries threaten to destroy them both until unexpected love guides the last lost lord home.

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19) Out April 30 *Book 2 in Daring Hearts series*

A Passion For Pleasure

Summary:

PRELUDE TO A KISS

A brilliant pianist and notorious rake, Sebastian Hall indulges his passion for music and women with equal aplomb. But now that his elder brother has married, his father insists he pursue a more respectable path and find a suitable wife.

MUSIC TO HER EARS

As a girl, Clara Whitmore quietly loved her piano teacher from afar. Yet her youthful crush cannot compare to the powerful desire she feels when she unexpectedly meets Sebastian again. Perhaps the man who once dominated her dreams could be the husband she has hoped for–and save her from the fate she most fears… 

LOVE STRIKES A CHORD

Risking scandal, ruin, and their own reputations, Sebastian and Clara enter into a marriage of convenience. But the pair soon discovers that their undeniable attraction is anything but convenient. Swept up in a crescendo of desire, Sebastian and Clara take each other to new heights of ecstasy–until secrets from the past threaten to doom the duet forever. Now Sebastian will have to change his tune-and prove his love is true.

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20) Out April 30 *First Time in Paperback!* (Lester Family Book 3)

Unwilling

Summary:

A successful horse breeder and self-proclaimed rake, Harry Lester samples women like wines. But after having his heart trampled by someone he actually loved, he has no intention of falling for a woman again, let alone being ensnared by the trap of marriage. Now, with a large inheritance to his name, Harry knows that he’d best start running from London’s matchmaking mothers and widows.

Harry heads for the racing town of Newmarket, only to encounter Mrs. Lucinda Babbacombe, a beautiful, independent widow. And before he knows it, Harry vows to protect Lucinda from the town full of lonely gambling men, despite her refusal to accept his countless offers of help. Lucinda is extraordinary—an intelligent, tender woman—but will Harry let himself be taken prisoner in this most passionate of traps?

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21) Out April 30 *Book 5 in Pennistan Family series*

One More Kiss

Summary:

Dispatched by their ambitious father to snag a titled husband, Beatrice Brent and her twin sister, Cecilia, attend a house party with an array of eligible gentlemen. Defiantly ignoring her father’s wishes, Beatrice flirts shamelessly with Lord Jessup Pennistan, a gamer with scandal in his past—and the one man her father has warned her against. But when flirting goes too far, Beatrice suddenly finds herself engaged and, worse, estranged from her family. Though convinced that her fiancé’s wicked ways will bring nothing but heartache, Beatrice is powerless against Jess’s masterful seduction and the anticipated delights of the marriage bed.

A gambling man who has lost more than his family is willing to forgive him for, Jess quickly realizes that compromising Beatrice was the best mistake he ever made. But to keep her he must right the wrongs of the past, reclaim his lost fortunes, and place the boldest wager of his life. For now he has everything to win . . . and everything to lose.

Click cover for Goodreads profile! (Website N/A)

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HAPPY MONTH OF READING! 😀

Julia Quinn’s New Book!

Love Julia Quinn?

Love her new Smythe-Smith series?

Then you will LOVE  her new book due out near the end of this year! Cover and summary below!

Website page is not yet available but pre-order on Amazon or Goodreads!

Book 3 in Smythe-Smith Quartet

The Sum Of All Kisses

Click cover for Julia’s website!

Summary:

Sarah Pleinsworth can’t forgive Hugh Prentice for the duel he fought three years ago that nearly destroyed her family, sent her cousin fleeing, and left Hugh himself with a badly injured leg. That’s fine with Hugh, who can’t tolerate Sarah’s dramatic ways.

But when the two are forced to spend a week together, they find that unexpected kisses, and mutual passion, may have the power to change both of their minds.

RELEASE DATE: NOVEMBER 26, 2013

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How pretty is that cover? And you just have to love that dress! Is this book on your wishlist this Christmas? 😀

A Christmas Bride/Christmas Beau by Mary Balogh

Christmas Bride and Beau

Setting: Regency

Summary:

A CHRISTMAS BRIDE

The very wealthy Edgar Downes has promised his aging father to finally take a bride—specifically, to wed a titled lady by Christmas. London is full of pretty, proper, and eligible misses, but it’s the widow Helena, Lady Stapleton, in a shocking red dress, who captures Edgar’s attention. Helena is intrigued by the seductive stranger—but he’s simply not in her class. Marriage, of course, would never do. But in a season of miracles, something wondrous is about to happen. 

CHRISTMAS BEAU
Not even the warm, forgiving Christmas spirit can stop the Marquess of Denbigh from settling his score with Judith Easton: The beautiful young widow injured Denbigh’s pride years ago by jilting him for another man. Now that Judith is free from a nightmare marriage, the handsome marquess has her in his sights—and wants her in his arms. But to trust the tender words on his lips, Judith must not only see past the hardness of his heart, but learn once again to trust her own heart’s desire.

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Review:

Yet another great 2 in 1 collection by Mary Balogh. These two classic Christmas romances will warm your heart-in any season!

To be honest, I wasn’t that fussed about reading romances set in Christmas time and I didn’t think there would be anything special that the Christmas setting could bring. But wow, did Mary Balogh change my mind! She makes the reader believe in the magic and spirit of Christmas and both stories need Christmas to end how they did.

The first story is about two people who seem completely wrong for each other but can’t seem to keep away from each other nevertheless! Meet Edgar and Helena who meet one night and share a magical connection but their class difference keeps them apart… until they meet at a Christmas house party and slowly their walls come down. It was great and touching to read this story as the heroine has a big secret that made her seem quite flawed but more human. I loved Edgar as a strong hero, who is determined to make Helena his! 😉

The second story was my favorite; a jilted hero seeks revenge on the long ago fiance who jilted him! The hero is a Darcy-type: dark, brooding, aloof which the heroine mistakes for being cold and cruel, hence why she ran away from him. Of course, things are more than they appear and I loved how the hero is the one who was heartbroken by the broken engagement-this made it very unique in that sense. I loved the chemistry as well and how our heroine realizes her stupidity in choosing a rake over a strong, stable character. The addiction of the kids in the story made it that much more emotional as well.

This is a fabulous set of books! I read it all within 3 days, it was too addictive. This is perfect for any season and a great pick me up. If you love Christmas, second chance romances and romances with kids, this book is for you! Those readers who loved her old classics can now enjoy them once more in a great set while those new readers can see what made Balogh such a star in the romance world.

Sensuality Rating: Warm (2/5)

Verdict: Highly recommended!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Romancing the Countess by Ashley March

Romancing the Countess

Setting: Victorian 1849

Summary:

Sebastian Madinger, the Earl of Wriothesly, thought he’d married the perfect woman-until a fatal accident revealed her betrayal with his best friend. After their deaths, Sebastian is determined to avoid a scandal for the sake of his son. But his best friend’s widow is just as determined to cast her mourning veil aside by hosting a party that will surely destroy both their reputations and expose all of his carefully kept secrets…

Leah George has carried the painful knowledge of her husband’s affair for almost a year. All she wants now is to enjoy her independence and make a new life for herself-even if that means being ostracized by the Society whose rules she was raised to obey. Now that the rumors are flying, there’s only one thing left for Sebastian to do: silence the scandal by enticing the improper widow into becoming a proper wife. But when it comes to matters of the heart, neither Sebastian nor Leah is prepared for the passion they discover in each other’s arms…

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Review:

My first book by this author and while it wasn’t bad, it fell quite short of my expectations, sadly. The premise was very intriguing but the plot fell short in my opinion and failed to provide anything fresh and exciting.

I had heard about Ashley March as the latest star in historical romance so I decided to give her a shot. I really loved the sound of this romance and it was unique considering both main characters’ spouses cheated with each other. I was looking forward to a deeply emotional romance but seriously could not stand the heroine much at all.

We are told Leah just wants to have fun after her husband’s death but she really breaks alot of the rules and quite carelessly too. I get she’s trying to be independent but she really had a selfish disregard for other people, especially considering that her actions could hurt an innocent child-AND she still continues to act that way after being told that! D:

The hero was likable though and I would rather have seen him with someone who was kinder but the heroine does improve towards the middle. Nothing special in the course of their romance though I did enjoy the initial sparks and tension between them. At times it was quite touching, though the writing style wasn’t anything too special. I love romances with children and this one was well done in drawing up a realistic picture of a family growing to love each other.

All in all, not a bad romance but not an amazing one either. Perhaps new romance readers would enjoy this more than a veteran reader of romances.

Sensuality Rating: Pretty sensual (3/5)

Verdict: Just ok

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars