Sins of a Ruthless Rogue by Anna Randol

Sins of a Ruthless RogueSetting: Regency

Book 2 in Sinners Trio

Summary:

When Clayton Campbell shows up on her doorstep, Olivia Swift is stunned. For long ago, Clayton was the boy who stole her heart. He’s also the man her betrayal had sent to the gallows. A man she believed dead, now standing before her, looking leaner, harder, more powerful than ever, his haunted eyes filled with a lust she had never seen—for vengeance…

He’s a Crown spy who once faced death and escaped unscathed. Yet Clayton Campbell cannot deny that the sight of Olivia rouses in him something more than a thirst for revenge. Or that the bold beauty would lure him once more into a dangerous game. Only this time, Clayton plans to be the victor—with the tempting Olivia in his bed as his prize. But once passion ignites between them, the hard-hearted agent will face his greatest battle yet—for his heart…

Review:

Having loved her first book in this series about a trio of spies who have recently retired and are trying to move on with their lives, I thought I would love this one even more but I ended up feeling lukewarm about the book. The premise sounded great but I didn’t really gel with the idea on this one and it honestly could have been better.

I thought the books rushed through the exposition way too quickly. One minute  we have a short flashback of Clayton and his girl in love and then suddenly we jump to the present where because of Olivia’s tattle-telling, Clayton has been sent into exile and then he magically pops up on the mill a few minutes later after having never seen Olivia in YEARS.

The thing with books with a couple who have already been in love once is that they tend to think that because they had that connection once then BAM, the chemistry is obviously there so the hard work of creating the emotional bond between the characters is lessened. I really would have liked more flashbacks between the two so we can see the kind of bond they once had before Olivia’s betrayal. And honestly, the whole plot could have been solved if Olivia had just apologized in the first place.

However, I did enjoy the whole action packed mystery plot on the side and I enjoyed Clayton as a hero. He was everything you want; brave, honorable and actually a sweetheart under that cold exterior. Olivia was alright but I wasn’t sold on her romance with Clayton.

I also liked the historical element and I learned a bit more about that period than I expected. All in all, this wasn’t a bad book but it wasn’t as good as it could have been.

Sensuality Rating: Pretty Hot (4/5)

Verdict: Just ok

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Romances Coming in July 2013!

Summer is officially here! Or if you live in Australia like I do then it’s almost the middle of winter, boo hoo! Well, either way, there are loads of great books to keep you happy (or warm!) this month!

1) Out July 1 *Book 3 in Ladies in Waiting series*

Lady of Quality

Summary:

Miss Catherine Hart may be merely a paid companion, but she’s the loveliest creature baron Lord Winston has ever encountered. The only obstacle is determining the mysterious Miss Hart’s social pedigree before the handsome diplomat can court her in earnest.

Revenge, not romance, led Catherine Du Coeur to hide her aristocratic name and seek out the man who accused her father of treason. She expected a coldhearted cad, but Winston appears honorable and compassionate. Against all odds, Catherine is drawn to the very adversary she intended to ruin. And soon both will face a choice—one involving pride, old loyalties and forgiveness.

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2) Out July 2 *Book 3 in Reckless Brides series*

Scandal in the Night

Summary:

Assuming a false identity as a prim and proper governess, the bold and beautiful Cat Rowan thinks she has finally escaped the wild misadventures of her past—and the wickedly handsome spy who seduced her in India. Imagine her surprise when her employer introduces his brother: the very same cad who destroyed her heart!

The Honorable Thomas Jellicoe cannot believe his eyes when he sees his beloved Cat—the Scottish beauty who nearly jeopardized his mission in India. Disguised as a horse trader from the bazaars of the Punjab, the British spy risked his life for one night of passion in her arms. But here and now—breaking all rules of decorum—one heated kiss ignites a flurry of gunfire. For their enemies have followed them home. And love is the greatest danger of all…

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3) Out July 2 *Book 4 in Lonely Lords series*

Beckman

Summary:

Beckman Haddonfield is ready to live again…

Beckman finally emerges from the shadow of his wife’s death by agreeing to restore a family estate…and embarking on a dalliance with the quiet, mysterious housekeeper who resides there. But she is not who she seems…

Riveting and refreshing, Beckman is an unforgettable story about love’s power to overcome grief and guilt. Award-winning New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes’s gorgeous writing and lush Regency world will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

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4) Out July 2

Scottish Mistress

Summary:

When newly widowed Lady Fiona Libourg flees to Scotland in need of protection, Lord Gavin McLendon is powerless to refuse the British beauty. Especially when she offers herself in exchange. Now the brooding Scottish warrior can think of nothing else but ravishing his delectable new mistress, even though he’s duty bound to marry another…

Fiona is shocked when Gavin accepts her scandalous offer-and fretful at the thought that he will discover how little she knows of seduction. But when Gavin proves to be a skilled and achingly sensuous teacher, Fiona doesn’t want their passionate arrangement to end. Now she can’t help but wonder just what it would take to go from Scottish mistress…to Scottish wife.

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5) Out July 2 *Book 6 in The Rogues’ Dynasty series*

Rogue Steals a Bride

Summary:

Matson Brentwood has finally met the woman of his dreams. The lovely, red-haired Sophia Hart heats his blood like no other lady. Her alluring countenance has stopped him dead in his tracks. But no matter how attracted he is to her, he can’t give into his desire to possess her in every way because she is the ward of the man he’s sworn to hate.

Newly arrived in London, Miss Sophia Hart is in need of a husband, but not for herself. She has twin, spinster aunts and one of them has decided she wants a man. Sophia agrees to help her aunt by allowing older gentlemen to call on her and then make sure Auntie spends more time in the gentleman’s company than Sophia does. But when Sophia meets the darkly handsome and intriguing Mr. Matson Brentwood, she knows that for the first time, she in danger of losing her heart.

But there’s more than just an adversarial guardian and a long list of beaus standing between Sophia and Matson. Sophia promised her dying father she would honor his lifelong plan for her as an heiress and marry a titled gentleman. Matson isn’t titled so she must deny her love for him and make up to her father for costing him the love of his life.

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6) Out July 2 *Book 4 in Ministry of Marriage series*

London's Last True Scoundrel

Summary:

LONDON’S ULTIMATE BAD BOY…

Physically reckless, irrepressibly roguish, and poised on the brink of ruin, Jonathon Westruther, Earl of Davenport, returns from the dead only to throw himself into dissipation. Until he meets his worst nightmare: a straitlaced former schoolteacher he can’t get out of his head. He resolves to seduce the delightful Miss Hilary deVere by fair means or foul. But when his past returns to endanger Hilary, he must protect her at all costs…

MEETS ENGLAND’S MOST PROPER MISS

Dismissed from her post at a ladies’ academy because of prejudice against her uncouth family, Hilary will do anything to avoid going back to live with her loutish brothers. She longs for a London season to show the world a deVere can behave with utmost decorum and to find a respectable husband. Everything about Lord Davenport appalls her but desperation makes strange bedfellows. To get to London, Hilary strikes a bargain with the devilish Davenport, confident that she’s immune to his charm. But as she discovers surprising depths beneath his rakish surface, this infamous scoundrel becomes more temptation than even the most proper lady can withstand…

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7) Out July 2 

Under the Same Sky

Summary:

Maggie Johnson has been gifted with “the Sight” ever since she was a child. Her dreams bring her visions of the future, and of a presence she knows is real. She calls him Wolf, and has seen him grow alongside her from a careless young boy into a fearsome warrior. And when her life is torn asunder by unspeakable tragedy, he is her only hope.

Andrew MacDonnell is entranced by the vision of a beautiful woman who has always dwelt in his dreams. When war ravages his land and all he has ever known, he leaves the Scottish Highlands on a perilous journey to the New World to find her, knowing that their only chance of survival is with one another.

Their quest to find each other across a treacherous wilderness will test the limits of courage and endurance, guided only by their dreams–and by the belief in the true love they share.

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8) Out July 2 *Book 1 in Ladies Unlaced series*

In the Arms of the Heiress

Summary:

Independent heiress Louisa Stratton is going home to Rosemont for the holidays and, at the family’s request, she’s bringing her new husband Maximillian Norwich, art connoisseur and artful lover, the man she’s written of so glowingly. There’s one hitch—he doesn’t exist. Louisa needs a fake husband, and fast, to make the proper impression.

Charles Cooper, captain of the Boer War and with a background far from silver spoons or gilded cages, is so hard up that even Louisa’s crazy scheme appeals to him. It’s only thirty days, not till death do them part. What’s so difficult about impersonating a husband, even if he doesn’t know a Rembrandt from a Rousseau?

The real difficulty is keeping his hands off Louisa once there’s nobody around to see through their ruse. And then there’s the small problem of someone at Rosemont trying to kill him. Keeping his wits about him and defending Louisa brings out the honor he thought he’d left on the battlefield. But when Louisa tries to protect him, Charles knows he’s found a way to face his future—in the arms of his heiress.

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9) Out July 23 *Book 2 in Ladies of Impropriety series*

A Lady Dares

Summary:

According to society, I, Elise Sutton, haven’t been a lady for quite some time—a lady couldn’t possibly run the family company and spend her days on London’s crowded, tar-stained docks. And she most certainly wouldn’t associate herself with the infamous Dorian Rowland—privateer, smuggler and the Scourge of Gibraltar himself! 

But I need Rowland and his specialized expertise—especially with the wolves circling, waiting for me to fail. I yearn to feel alive, and Rowland, who can kiss like the devil, inflames my senses and makes me dare to break free…. 

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10) Out July 23 *Book 1 in Season of Secrets series*

Not Just a Governess

Summary:

GOVERNESS?  

Darkly delicious Lord Adam Hawthorne doesn’t care a whit for society-especially the tedium of finding a wife. So taking on a new governess for his young daughter shouldn’t shake his steely disposition! 

OR LADY IN DISGUISE?  

Except Mrs. Elena Leighton, an enigmatic widow, is a most intriguing addition to the household. What are those ladylike airs and graces beneath her dowdy exterior? 

Despite great impropriety, Lord Hawthorne is compelled to discover the real Elena-no matter what secrets are unveiled along the way…. 

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11) Out July 30 *Book 6 in Inferno Club series*

My Notorious Gentleman

Summary:

Shy, warm-hearted Miss Grace Kenwood knows she has no chance of tempting her new neighbor, Lord Trevor Montgomery. Every eligible beauty is swooning over the brooding former spy. Even though he once kissed her senseless, he can have no interest in someone like her. Yet somehow, the seductive rogue unleashes her own inner devil…

Every lady loves a hero, but Trevor has no interest in any of them— except for the refreshingly candid Grace. If he had a heart left, Grace might steal it. She insists he’s better than he thinks. He’s sure she’s absolutely wrong. Until danger threatens, and Trevor rediscovers how easy it is to be a hero…for the right lady.

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12) Out July 30 *Book 3 in Forgotten Princesses series*

How to Lose a Bride in One Night

Summary:

When Annalise Hadley is tossed over the side of her honeymoon barge, the newly-minted duchess knows she’s been left for dead — for her husband’s only interest is in her vast dowry, not her muddied lineage. However, she didn’t count on a savior. Especially not an honorable, sinfully intriguing earl who will tempt her to risk everything—again.

A man with his own demons, Owen Crawford, the reclusive Earl of McDowell, is enchanted by the mysterious, courageous woman he rescued. He will help her heal, teach her to protect herself, and then send her away—so that she’ll never see he’s far from the hero she believes him to be.

But days and nights alone prove that some secrets are meant to be discovered…some desires are too powerful to resist…and some wounds can only be healed by love.

13) Out July 30 *NEW SERIES*

Love and Other Scandals

Summary:

Joan Bennet is tired of being a wallflower. Thanks to some deliciously scandalous—and infamous—stories, she has a pretty good idea of what she’s missing as a spinster. Is even a short flirtation too much to ask for?

Tristan, Lord Burke, recognizes Joan at once for what she is: trouble. Not only is she his best friend’s sister, she always seems to catch him at a disadvantage. The only way he can win an argument is by kissing her senseless. He’d give anything to get her out of her unflattering gowns. But either one of those could cost him his bachelor status, which would be dreadful—wouldn’t it?

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14) Out July 30 *Book 1 in Clan Sinclair series*

The Devil of Clan Sinclair

Summary:

For Virginia Traylor, Countess of Barrett, marriage was merely the vehicle to buy her father a title. Widowhood, however, brings a host of problems. For her husband deliberately spent the money intended for Virginia and her in-laws, leaving them penniless—unless she produces an heir. Desperate and confused, Virginia embarks on a fateful journey that brings her to the doorstep of the only man she’s ever loved…

He’s known as The Devil, but Macrath Sinclair doesn’t care. He moved to a tiny Scottish village in hopes of continuing his work as an inventor and starting a family of his own. He bought the house; he chose the woman. Unfortunately, Virginia didn’t choose him. Macrath knows he should turn her away now, but she needs him, and he wants her more than ever. Whatever game Virginia’s playing, Macrath intends to win—one wickedly seductive deed at a time…

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15) Out July 30 *Book 1 in Scottish Brides series*

The Lady and the Laird

Summary:

Lady Lucy MacMorlan may have forsworn men and marriage, but that doesn’t mean she won’t agree to profit from writing love letters for her brother’s friends – letters that become increasingly racy as her fame grows. That is, until she deliberately ruins the betrothal of a notorious laird, Robert, Marquis of Methven. 

Past centuries of bloodshed have left the Methven and MacMorlan families bitter enemies and Robert is furious that Lady Lucy’s letters have cost him the bride he needs so urgently to save his ancestral clan lands. Now he makes Lucy a shocking proposal;  in return for his silence she must become his wife and provide him with the heir he needs. It is an inconvenient marriage of convenience but can the rugged laird and the bluestocking beauty fight against the power of love?

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16) Out July 30

Hers at Midnight

Summary:

HOW EASILY ONE’S HEART CAN BE STOLEN…

Some call him Gentleman Jack. The papers prefer Swift Nick. The only name Jack Nevison never uses is the one left to him by his abusive aristocratic father. Jack wants nothing to do with his heritage; instead, he preys on the wealthy, stealing coin (and the occasional kiss) on England’s darkest roads. Jack’s dangerous deeds are legend, yet the thrill of a highwayman’s life is growing cold…until he meets Arabella.

DEPENDS UPON THE THIEF

Beautiful and bold, Arabella Hamilton may come from the world Jack despises, but she’s a kindred spirit at heart. Their attraction is immediate and consuming, and with each encounter they risk more. Yet they remain on opposite sides of the law…and society. To be together, one of them will have to give up their world forever.

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17) Out July 30 *Book 2 in Worthington series*

And Then Comes Marriage

Summary:

TWICE THE TEMPTATION

After years of being a quiet, dutiful wife, the recently widowed Mrs. Miranda Talbot is finally free to do as she pleases. As an attractive woman of independent means, Miranda is suddenly turning heads all around town. When she meets the dashing Mr. Castor Worthington, she is swept away by his passion. Is he too good to be true?

DOUBLE THE DESIRE

Little does Miranda know that there is more to Castor than meets the eye. In fact, he’s a twin. Castor’s brother, also a confirmed bachelor, takes his romantic pursuits—and rivals—very seriously. When Castor discovers Miranda is being courted by his own twin, his competitive nature takes over. Who will be the one to win Miranda’s hand and heart? The race to say I do is about to begin…

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18) Out July 30

The Highlander's Desire

Summary:

For Lachann, safeguarding his clan comes before life, limb, and especially love. A political marriage in Kilgorra will ensure that MacMillan lands are protected; so much the better that his bride doesn’t stir his blood. But what of the intriguing woman who arouses so much more . . . and lives in the very castle where Lachann is to wed?

A nna MacIver is content to serve in her stepfather’s household despite the cruelty of her stepsister, Catriona. She has a sanctuary to which she can escape and no romantic notions to impede good sense . . . until Catriona’s intended bridegroom arrives in Kilgorra and shows Anna the meaning of desire. Now, with a clan’s future hanging in the balance, Anna and Lachann must decide if love is a risk worth taking . . .

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19) Out July 30 *Book 1 in Wicked Widows series*

Why Dukes Say I Do

Summary:

TRUE LOVE IS OFTEN FOUND

With her whirlwind social life in London, Lady Isabella Wharton has little interest in the customs of the country. But when her godmother asks her to pay a visit to her bachelor grandson in Yorkshire, Isabella can’t refuse. It behooves her to please the old dowager, since she harbors one of Isabella’s most scandalous secrets. So off she goes to see the newly-titled—and notoriously rustic—Duke of Ormond…

WHERE YOU LEAST EXPECT IT

Trevor Carey doesn’t care about what goes on behind ballroom doors. He is content with the simple life—and isn’t ashamed to admit it to a society flirt like Lady Isabella. But the country air brings out a different side of Isabella—one full of longing and passion. Can her sophistication be hiding a desire for love? When a blackmailer from the city arrives to threaten Isabella, Trevor will shield her from harm—even travel to London. Can the duke tackle the ton on Isabella’s behalf …and manage to keep her all to himself?

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20) Out July 30 *Book 3 in London List series*

Lady Anne's Lover

Summary:

Lady Imaculata Anne Egremont has appeared in the scandalous pages of the London List often enough. The reading public is so bored with her nonsense, she couldn’t make news now unless she took a vow of chastity. But behind her naughty hijinks is a terrible fear. It’s time the List helped her. With a quick scan through its job postings and a few whacks at her ridiculous name, she’s off to keep house for a bachelor veteran as plain Anne Mont.

Major Gareth Ripton-Jones is dangerously young and handsome on the face of it, but after losing his love and his arm in short order, he is also too deep in his cups to notice that his suspiciously young housekeeper is suspiciously terrible at keeping house. Until, that is, her sharp tongue and her burnt coffee penetrate even his misery—and the charm underneath surprises them both. Trust the worst cook in Wales to propose a most unexpected solution to his troubles…

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HAPPY MONTH OF READING! 😀

Romances Coming in June 2013!

Ok so technically June is almost over and I apologize again for not having this list ready ages ago 😦 But now that I’m on holiday you can expect a lot more updates! 😀

Maybe you can still find some books you didn’t know about by reading this list!

1) Out June 1 *Book 2 in Ladies of Distinction series*

PeculiarSummary:

Miss Arabella Beckett has one driving passion: to help the downtrodden women of America. Naturally, she supports the women’s suffrage movement and eagerly attends rallies and lectures across the country. On her travels, she makes a simple offer of assistance to a young woman in need that goes sadly awry and lands both ladies in more trouble than they can manage. An independent sort, Arabella is loath to admit she needs help and certainly doesn’t need help from an arrogant, narrow-minded knight in shining armor.

Mr. Theodore Wilder, private investigator extraordinaire, is on a mission. A mission that began as a favor to his good friend Hamilton Beckett, but swiftly evolved into a merry chase across the country. By the time he finally tracks down Hamilton’s sister, Arabella, he is in a less than pleasant mood. When the lady turns out to have radical ideas and a fiercely independent streak, he soon finds himself at his wit’s end. 

When they return home to New York, circumstances force their paths to continue to cross, but the most peculiar feelings growing between them certainly can’t be love. When the trouble Arabella had accidentally stirred up seems to have followed her to New York and threatens her very life, the unlikely couple must face the possibility that they might have landed in the most peculiar circumstance of all: love.

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2) Out June 4

Magic of I Do

Summary:

Desperately Seeking Excitement…

With the temporary prohibition on magic on the land of the Fae, Claire Thorne might as well go back to the Regency world. The haut ton has just as many annoying rules as her world, but at least they have parties and dances. Plus, the roguish Lord Phineas “Finn” Trimble is there…

When the feisty faerie tumbles into his room through a magical portal, Finn can’t believe how completely unpredictable she is. Even before the two stumble into a dangerous intrigue that threatens both their worlds, Finn discovers that his hitherto carefree life is about to go up in smoke…

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3) Out June 4 *DEBUT AUTHOR* (Book 1 in Mischief series)

Night Mischief

Summary:

Every Prize Comes with Complications…

A game of cards saves James Collington from the prospect of debtors’ prison and grants him ownership to Tethering estate. Little does he know that his winnings come with serious complications–not least of which is a beautiful but impoverished young lady who insists his new home belongs to her.

If He Can’t Stop Her, He Might as Well Join Her…

Felicity Wilcox is determined to run Mr. Collington off her land, though James’s charm and devilish good looksare a serious distraction. What she doesn’t know is that she may be haunting him right back.

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4) Out June 4 *Book 3 in Sydney Dovedale series*

Flirts with Scandal

Summary:

Lady Mercy likes her life neat and tidy. She prides herself on being practical – like her engagement to Viscount Grey, whose dark colouring co-ordinates very well with her favourite furnishings. But things start to get messy when her best friend abandons her fiance at the altar, leaving it up to Mercy to help the couple. There’s just one problem. The jilted man is Rafe Hartley—Mercy’s former husband.

Rafe has not forgiven Mercy for deserting him when they were seventeen. Their hasty marriage was declared void by law, but in his eyes the bossy little vixen was still his wife, even if the marriage lasted only a few hours. And Mercy “Silky Drawers” Danforthe still owes him a wedding night.

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5) Out June 4 *Book 2 in The Royal Rakes series*

One Night with a Rake

Summary:

Since the death of his fiancée, Nathaniel Colton’s polished boots have rested beneath the beds of countless wayward wives and widows of the ton. He’s careful to leave each lady smiling, and equally careful to guard his heart.

So seducing Lady Georgette should pose no problem. But the beautiful reformist is no easy conquest, and Nate’s considerable charm fails to entice Georgette to his bed.

To woo her, Nate will have to make her believe he cares about someone besides himself—and no one is more surprised than Nate when he realizes he actually does.

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6) Out June 4 *Book 2 in Steam Guardians series*

A Captain and a Corset

Summary:

There’s Trouble in the Skies…

For Sophia Stevenson, there’s no going back to the life she knew. She never asked for the powers that make her a precious commodity to the secret society of Illuminists—and their archenemies.

Captain Bion Donkova would give anything to possess the powers that have fallen in Sophia’s lap. If only the beautiful, infuriating woman could stay out of trouble, he wouldn’t have to keep coming to her rescue…

Bion and Sophia have friction to spare—and nothing fuels a forbidden passion better than danger…

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7) Out June 4 *Book 3 of Lonely Lords series*

Ethan

Summary:

Ethan Grey’s life was shattered…

Estranged from his family, widowed after an unhappy marriage, and weary from fighting his troubled past, Ethan Grey now has a chance for redemption. His son’s beautiful and remarkable governess might help him battle his ghosts, but it’s been a long time since he let himself get close to anyone.

Alice Portman has more in common with Ethan than she can comfortably admit. For now, she’s satisfied with helping him rebuild his life and family. But the dangerous past is about to catch up with them both.

An unforgettable Regency tale of two wounded people who get another chance at love. 

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8) Out June 4 *Book 2 in Cinderella Sisterhood series*

Stroke of Midnight

Summary:

The infamous Laura Falkner has returned to Regency London society in disguise. Determined to clear her father’s name, she becomes a companion to elderly Lady Josephine—only to learn the woman’s nephew is none other than Alexander Ross, the devilish Earl of Copley, the man Laura once loved with all her heart.  The same man who’d accused her father of theft and forced them to flee England.  

Alex has never forgotten Laura—or forgiven himself for letting her go. Today, Laura is as lovely—and stubborn—as ever, and her attempts at crime-solving are putting her in danger. The only way Alex can keep her safe is to marry her.

But how can this notorious rake convince Laura that his heart is true…before the clock strikes twelve? 

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9) Out June 4 *Book 1 in Three Princesses series* (NEW SERIES!)

How to Tame Your Duke

Summary:

England, 1888.

Quiet and scholarly Princess Emilie has always avoided adventure, until she’s forced to disguise herself as a tutor in the household of the imposing Duke of Ashland, a former soldier disfigured in battle and abandoned by his wife. When chance draws her into a secret liaison with the duke, Emilie can’t resist the opportunity to learn what lies behind his forbidding mask, and find out what adventure really means…

The duke never imagines that his son’s tutor and his mysterious golden-haired beauty are one and the same. But when the true identity of his lover is laid bare, Ashland must face the demons in his past in order to safeguard both his lady—and his heart.

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10) Out June 4 *Book 3 in Glass Slipper Brides series*

The Earl's Honorable Intentions

Summary:

As soon as Colonel Gavin Romney has healed, he’ll return to war and see Bonaparte vanquished forever. Yet his children’s governess is proving a formidable adversary on the home front. For pretty, determined Hannah Fletcher wants the earl to fulfill the one role he’s sure is beyond him: loving parent.

Hannah can’t bear to see her three motherless charges lose their father, too. When Gavin impulsively offers a marriage of convenience for the children’s sake, she believes the gulf between them is too wide. Now the earl is ready to wage a very different campaign—for Hannah’s tender heart, and for the family he longs to reclaim….

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11) Out June 4 *Book 1 in Nemesis Unlimited series*

Sweet Revenge

Summary:

When Jack Dalton escapes from Dunmoor Prison, he has only one thing in mind—finding the nobleman who murdered his sister and making him pay. But when he reaches the inn where the Lord Rockley is rumored to be staying, three well-dressed strangers are there to meet him instead. And the pretty blonde is aiming a pistol right at his head …

Joining Nemesis, Unlimited has made Eva Warrick much more than the well-mannered lady she appears to be—one who can shoot, fight, and outsmart any man in the quest to right the injustices so often suffered by the innocent. She’s not afraid of the burly escaped convict, but she is startled by their shared attraction. She and her partners need Jack’s help to get to Rockley, but Eva finds she wants Jack for scandalous reasons all her own…

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12) Out June 4 *Book 3 of Killdaren series* (RE-ISSUE)

Silken Shadows

Summary:

When Gemini Andrews laid eyes on Captain Deverell Jansen, she didn’t need her psychic abilities to know that he would soon be hers. It was just a matter of convincing him. So when Gemini learns of his voyage to Northrope in search of a vicious killer whose victims are left strewn among the Druid Stones, she hatches a plan. Knowing she can help—and with hopes of growing closer to Dev—she stows away on his ship…

Dev is shocked to discover Gemini, knowing what this kind of stunt could do to her reputation. Yet after learning of her powers, he realizes he does need her, in more ways than one. These murders could be the work of notorious killer Jack Poole—but from beyond the grave? Together they are thrust into the realm of the supernatural, and Dev must trust in the love that Gemini is so certain of—or else there’s no hope of withstanding the strength of a killer’s thirst…

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13) Out June 18 *Book 1 in The Duke’s Men series*

What the Duke Desires

Summary:

Maximilian Cale, the Duke of Lyons, accepted long ago that his kidnapped brother was dead. When a cryptic note from investigator Tristan Bonnaud claims otherwise, Max seeks out Tristan’s sister, Lisette—and is infuriated to learn that Tristan has also mysteriously vanished. Have the siblings perpetrated an elaborate hoax? Or is the fiercely protective beauty as innocent as she claims them to be?

Fearful that the powerful duke will destroy Tristan’s career in his zeal for the truth, the clever Lisette convinces Max to accompany her to Paris in a joint search for their loved ones. But their journey takes a seductive twist when they pose as an ordinary husband and wife—not an English duke with a tarnished family name and the illegitimate daughter of a viscount—and discover an exhilarating passion free from the damning secrets of the past.

With the line between danger and desire enticingly blurred, they discover that some mysteries, like those of the heart, are answered tenfold in the bliss of a true and trusting love.

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14) Out June 18

Her Highland Protector

Summary:

Lady Jenna Aleyne must marry well if she is to claim her lands…

Only, there is a complete lack of eligible suitors in the Highlands! But then Niall Gilvry is assigned to watch over Jenna, and there’s no denying she finds this handsome Scot most distracting!

Niall knows Jenna is too fine a lady for the likes of him—after all, high society has little time for a lowly third son—but he takes his duty seriously. With danger lurking in the shadows, Niall stays close. It would be just oh, so easy to pull her into his arms.…

Click cover for more info!

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15) Out June 18 *Book 1 in Ladies of Impropriety series*

A Lady Risks All

Summary:

Seducing the Captain

It would be unwise to mistake me for an innocent debutante—for years I have graced the smoky gloom of many a billiards club and honed my skills at my father’s side.

But now he has a new protégé—Captain Greer Barrington—and while my father would see me attract the attentions of an eligible lord I, Mercedes Lockhart, have other ambitions.… Even if that means seducing the captain to earn back my father’s favor!

I know I must avoid falling for Greer’s charming smile… but his sensual kisses could be worth the risk.…

Click cover for more info!

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16) Out June 18 *Book 5 in Gentleman of Disrepute series*

Mistress to the Marquis

Summary:

She may grace his bed, but she will never wear his ring

They whisper her name in the ballroom’s shadows—the marquis’s mistress! It will take all of Alice Sweetly’s renowned acting skills to play this part: smile until it no longer hurts, until they believe your lie, until you believe. Pretend he means nothing.

If the Marquis of Razeby thinks he can let his mistress go easily, he is so very wrong. Each night she appears before a rapturous Covent Garden audience, taunting him with her beauty. But Razeby must marry, and while Alice could grace his bed she can never grace his arm.

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17) Out June 25 *Book 1 in Highland series* 

An English Bride in Scotland

Summary:

She never expected to marry…

Annabel was about to take the veil to become a nun when her mother suddenly arrives at the Abbey to take her home…so that she can marry the Scottish laird who is betrothed to her runaway sister! She knows nothing about being a wife, nothing about how to run a household, and definitely nothing about the marriage bed.

He never expected to fall in love . . .

From the moment Ross MacKay sets eyes on Annabel, he is taken with his shy sweet bride…and the fact that she’s blessed with lush curves only makes him utter his own prayers of thanks. But when an enemy endangers her life, he’ll move the Highlands themselves to save her. For though Annabel’s not the bride he planned for, she’s the only woman he desires.

 

Click cover for more info!

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18) Out June 25 *Book 8 in Pennyroyal Green series*

It Happened One Midnight

Summary:

More than one beautiful woman’s hopes have been dashed on the rocky shoals of Jonathan Redmond’s heart. With his riveting good looks and Redmond wealth and power, the world is his oyster—until an ultimatum from his father and a chilling gypsy prophesy send him hurtling headlong toward a fate he’ll do anything to avoid: matrimony.

Intoxicating, elusive Thomasina de Ballesteros has the bloods of London at her feet. But none of them knows the real Tommy—the one with a shocking pedigree, a few too many secrets, and a healthy scorn for rakes like Jonathan.

She is everything Jonathan never wanted. But on one fateful midnight, he’s drawn into Tommy’s world of risk, danger…and a desire he’d never dreamed possible. And suddenly he’s re-thinking everything…including the possibility that succumbing to prophesy might just mean surrendering to love.

Click cover for more info!

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19) Out June 25 *Book 2 in Cynster Sisters Duo series*

Taming of Ryder Cavanaugh

Summary:

The Honorable Miss Mary Cynster always gets what she wants. As the last unwed Cynster of her generation, she is determined to remain in charge of her life and of the man she will marry. At the very bottom of her list of potential husbands is Ryder Cavanaugh, the daring and devastating Marquess of Raventhorne, an overwhelming and utterly unmanageable lion of the ton. But destiny has a different plan.

Ryder needs Mary as his wife, not just because she is delightful, fiery, and tempting, but because he values all she could be. When fate and circumstance hand him the chance, he claims Mary as his marchioness…only to discover what he truly desires is not just to take her hand in marriage, but to capture her heart.

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20) Out June 25 *Book 3 of Phaeton Black series*

Miss Education of Dr Exeter

Summary:

If The Portal’s A-Rockin’

Phaeton Black is missing. Sucked into an alternative universe—courtesy of Professor Lovecraft’s Trans-Dimensional Injection Portal—the illustrious investigator is nowhere to be found. Even the bewitching Miss America Jones, who’s pregnant with Phaeton’s child, has no clue to his whereabouts. But when a spy fly’s microphone picks up Phaeton’s voice in the parlors of Paris, she enlists his dearest friends to track him down—before his deadliest enemies find him first. . .

Don’t Come A-Knockin’

Accompanied by the dashing Dr. Exeter, his delightful ward Mia, and a trusty duo of Nightshades, it’s off to the City of Lights for the determined Miss Jones. Unfortunately, there is something about Paris in the fall that brings out the devil in Dr. Exeter—and the beast in mild-mannered Mia, whose animal urges transform her into a gorgeous panther. With physical reality unraveling on both sides of the cosmic rift, the good doctor must extract Phaeton Black from the clutches of a diabolical techno-wizard—or both could lose the women they love to love. . .forever.

Click cover for more info!

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21) Out June 25 *Book 1 in House of Trent series* (NEW SERIES!)

The Duchess Hunt

Summary:

Simon Hawkins, duke of Trent, is no stranger to scandal. Rumors and innuendo have darkened the House of Trent for decades, and it has fallen to Simon to restore his tattered family name. He lives by a strict code of honor, but when he is called home to investigate his mother’s disappearance, the distinguished duke will tangle with temptation. For there waits the only woman he has ever loved-and the last woman he should desire . . .

Sarah Osborne has spent her life dreaming of Simon’s touch. But dukes do not long for lady’s maids—or so Sarah believes, until a stolen kiss sparks a passion that could be her ultimate undoing. As the couple begins a forbidden romance, a cunning enemy plots to destroy the duke and everything he loves. Now, caught in a blackmailer’s web, Simon faces an agonizing choice: sacrifice his family’s future or break Sarah’s heart.

Click cover for more info!

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22) Out June 25 *Book 3 in Blackshear Family series*

Entangled

Summary:

Kate Westbrook has dreams far bigger than romance. Love won’t get her into London’s most consequential parties, nor prevent her sisters from being snubbed and looked down upon—all because their besotted father unadvisedly married an actress. But a noble husband for Kate would deliver a future most suited to the granddaughter of an earl. Armed with ingenuity, breathtaking beauty, and the help of an idle aunt with connections, Kate is poised to make her dreams come true. Unfortunately, a familiar face—albeit a maddeningly handsome one—appears bent on upsetting her scheme.

Implored by Kate’s worried father to fend off the rogues eager to exploit his daughter’s charms, Nick Blackshear has set aside the torch he’s carried for Kate in order to do right by his friend. Anyway, she made quite clear that his feelings were not returned—though policing her won’t abate Nick’s desire. Reckless passion leads to love’s awakening, but time is running out. Kate must see for herself that the charms of high society are nothing compared to the infinite sweet pleasures demanded by the heart.

Click cover for more info!

***

HAPPY MONTH OF READING! 😀

One Good Earl Deserves a Lover by Sarah MacLean

One Good Earl Deserves a LoverSetting: Regency

Summary:

Lady Philippa Marbury is…odd.

The brilliant, bespectacled daughter of a double marquess cares more for books than balls, for science than the season, and for laboratories than love. She’s looking forward to marrying her simple fiancé and living out her days quietly with her dogs and her scientific experiments. But before that, Pippa has two weeks to experience all the rest–fourteen days to research the exciting parts of life. It’s not much time, and to do it right she needs a guide familiar with London’s darker corners.

She needs…a Scoundrel.

She needs Cross, the clever, controlled partner in London’s most exclusive gaming hell, with a carefully crafted reputation for wickedness. But reputations often hide the darkest secrets, and when the unconventional Pippa boldly propositions him, seeking science without emotion, she threatens all he works to protect. He is tempted to give Pippa precisely what she wants…but the scoundrel is more than he seems, and it will take every ounce of willpower to resist giving the lady more than she ever imagined.

Review:

I love Sarah MacLean. All her books thus have been sexy, witty, and surprisingly fresh in a genre that can seem very predictable at times. But I never expected how much I would love this book. To be honest, I came into this book with a lot misapprehensions because I thought the way that Philippa and Cross got thrown together was a bit cliche (Philippa’s sister and Cross’s friend are the heroes of the first book in the series) and I couldn’t really see how they would suit each other. A cold, calculating, rakish, gaming hell partner with a socially awkward bluestocking who wears glasses? Not really an ideal match at all!

But I should never have doubted Sarah MacLean’s talent for creating emotionally poignant stories with characters that have so many layers and who slowly reveal themselves to be so perfect for each other, you should never have doubted it in the first place. At least that was the case for me!

This was an amazing book and this was clearly one of Ms. MacLean’s favourites to write because of the amount of thought and downright awesome-ness that was just packed into it. The story was so well paced and flowed so well and yet managed to be unpredictable and fresh at the same time.  I loved the way it was written and I honestly had the hardest time putting this down!

Despite not warming to Philippa in the last book when she introduced, I grew to adore this determined, logically based young woman. Sure she can be immature and naive sometimes but that’s part of the reason she is so endearing to the reader. And don’t get me started on Cross who turned out to be one of my biggest romance hero crushes ever! You gotta love a guy who has a thing for the wallflower 😛 I simply adored their scenes together and their love scenes literally had me fanning myself, they were sizzling with tension! I love how they didn’t jump right into bed either but held back-makes it all so much more exciting to read!

To sum it all up: A great plot with great characters and a romance you won’t soon forget! This is definitely one of my top picks for this year! Well done Sarah! Can’t wait for your next book! 😀

Sensuality Rating: Pretty hot (4/5)

Verdict: Just read it! You won’t regret this one!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

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? 😀

Confessions From an Arranged Marriage by Miranda Neville

Confessions From An Arranged Marriage

Setting: Regency 1822

*Book 4 in Burgundy Club series*

Summary:

They couldn’t be more different—but there’s one thing they agree on…

In London after a two-year exile, Lord Blakeney plans to cut a swathe through the bedchambers of the demimonde. Marriage is not on his agenda, especially to an annoying chit like Minerva Montrose, with her superior attitude and a tendency to get into trouble. And certainly thelast man Minerva wants is Blake, a careless wastrel without a thought in his handsome head. 

The heat and noise of her debutante ball give Minerva a migraine. Surely a moment’s rest could do no harm . . . until Blake mistakes her for another lady, leaving Minerva’s guests to catch them in a very compromising position. To her horror, the scandal will force them to do the unthinkable: marry. Their mutual loathing blazes into unexpected passion but Blake remains distant, desperate to hide a shameful secret. Minerva’s never been a woman to take things lying down, and she’ll let nothing stop her from winning his trust . . . and his heart.

Click cover for more info!

Review: 

You know those romances that feature intriguing secondary characters from previous romances? Well, this is one of those books which takes two characters we love from previous books and gives them their own romance. Surprisingly, I wasn’t even looking forward to this one because the premise didn’t stand out much to me and I thought the hero and heroine were ill matched but I ended up loving it! This one was a surprise success!

What do you get when you put an intelligent, outspoken bluestocking and a titled, seemingly dumb hero together? Alot of sparks-both good and bad! Fans of her last books know the hero and heroine as constantly arguing with each other and generally not getting along! They seem like they have nothing in common so it was quite surprising to see them paired up in this book and I had doubts whether they would make a good match.

But Miranda does an amazing job of revealing deeper layers to both characters and showing us just how well they suit each other. The hero has a surprising secret that will endear him to readers who previously disliked him and Minerva is delightful with her bold, daring character even though she can be quite immature and impulsive at times. Their romance is full of unexpected sparks that remind one of Lizzy and Darcy type romance.

The writing is wonderful-warm, fast-paced with just a sprinkle of wit and humor thrown in. The plot may seem basic enough-guy compromises girl accidentally and they end up in an arranged marriage and of course end up falling in love but Miranda makes her characters so entertaining and real, that it becomes a joy to read! Fans will enjoy revisiting the other couples from the last books and new readers will need to pick up the rest of this wonderful series!

Another wonderful romance from the very talented Miranda Neville! Can’t wait to read her next!

Sensuality Rating: Pretty sensual (3/5)

Verdict: Wonderful opposites attract romance!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Seven Nights in a Rogue’s Bed by Anna Campbell

Seven Nights in a Rogue's Bed

Setting: Late Regency 1826

*Book 1 in Sons of Sin series*

Summary:

Will a week of seduction…

Desperate to save her sister’s life, Sidonie Forsythe has agreed to submit herself to a terrible fate: Beyond the foreboding walls of Castle Craven, a notorious, hideously scarred scoundrel will take her virtue over the course of seven sinful nights. Yet instead of a monster, she encounters a man like no other. And during this week, she comes to care for Jonas Merrick in ways that defy all logic-even as a dark secret she carries threatens them both.

…Spark a lifetime of passionate surrender?

Ruthless loner Jonas knows exactly who he is. Should he forget, even for a moment, the curse he bears, a mere glance in the mirror serves as an agonizing reminder. So when the lovely Sidonie turns up on his doorstep, her seduction is an even more delicious prospect than he originally planned. But the hardened outcast is soon moved by her innocent beauty, sharp wit, and surprising courage. Now as dangerous enemies gather at the gate to destroy them, can their new, fragile love survive?

Click cover for more info!

Review:

Always love Anna Campbell’s dark, intensely riveting romances! Sadly, this isn’t a favourite of mine mainly due to the unoriginal premise and the lack of a addictive plotline. This one, while not one of her best still has all the hallmarks of a classic Anna Campbell romance.

I think my main problem with this book was the premise-it seemed too 1980’s big, bad hero and innocent, pure virgin sacrifice stuck in a castle with him kind of story. The kind of thing a beginner romance writer would come up with. And the premise was set up with the idea that there was going to be ALOT of sex. I mean seven nights?? Ok…

But because it was Anna Campbell, I gave it a shot and thought she would be able to make it fresh and entertaining with a couple of new twists thrown in there. Sadly, even her brilliant writing couldn’t make up for a sorely lacking plot and I had a very hard time suspending my disbelief that Sidonie could even consider selling her body in the first place. Surely there could have been another way or she could have gone to ask if there could be another bargain to make. Not just throw herself (literally) into the lion’s den and all to save a sister who really wasn’t worth saving in my opinion. She could simply have grabbed her sister and run!

The story is supposed to based of Beauty and the Beast but at least with that fairytale, Belle didn’t just decide the only thing she had to give was her body and Sidonie went in without a fight. Just seemed too cliche to me.

And the characters were standard cutout romance archetypes-the hero was your typical all bark, no bite guy with a secret heart of gold (that’s obvious from the very start) and Sidonie is just a little too perfect with her sense of honor to a sister that really doesn’t treat her well at all. There weren’t many other characters beside the two of them so it did drag a little at parts.

The romance was alright but not particularly hooking or exciting. The tension wasn’t bad though, and I did enjoy how Sidonie resisted giving into Jonas for so long. I still love the way Anna writes and that more than anything kept me reading through to the end.

All in all, not a standout from Anna but still a passable read. If you want a better update of Beauty and the Beast, try When Beauty Tamed the Beast by Eloisa James.

Sensuality Rating: SUPER HOT! 😉 (Caution: Very erotic scenes)

Verdict: Just passable

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Sarah MacLean New Book Cover Revealed!

Ahh! Simply stunning! 😀

No Good Duke

And it’s now available for pre-order too!

Click the cover to view the Amazon page and here to view the Goodreads page!

Summary:

In NO GOOD DUKE GOES UNPUNISHED, the mysterious Temple is at best an inveterate womanizer who ruined his father’s future duchess, and at worst, a cold-blooded killer who murdered his future stepmother. 

No one has seen Mara Lowe since she disappeared from her bedchamber on the morning of her wedding twelve years ago—leaving behind a drunken Temple. Despite vehement claims of innocence, Temple was exiled from society, stripped of his funds and left to survive on his own. 

He is the brawn behind the Fallen Angel club, and has given up on ever returning to society, until the missing Mara shows up and begs for his help.

RELEASE DATE: AUGUST 27, 2013

Can’t wait to hear more about this book! 😀

Sneak Peek of Tessa Dare’s New Romance!

Who doesn’t love Tessa Dare and her great series about a secret place just for women in the world of Regency England? Her new book revolves around a rakish duke and a lowly serving girl he chooses to marry in order to spite his parents.

Book 4 in Spindle Cove series

Any Duchess Will Do

Click cover for more info!

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?

RELEASE DATE: MAY 28, 2013

And here’s a little teaser from the book itself to wet your appetite…

Link to The Ballroom Blog

Sins of a Virgin by Anna Randol

Sins of a VirginSetting: Regency

*Book 1 in Sinners Trio series*

Summary:

There is improper, there is scandalous… and then there is Madeline Valdan.

To the world, Madeline Valdan is a scandalous courtesan, with society’s most eligible gentlemen at her feet. But no one knows her shocking secret: she has never experienced the most intimate touch of any man. So she astonishes the ton by telling them the truth . . . and by announcing the auction of her virginity to the highest bidder.

Handsome and disciplined, Gabriel Huntford knows his time is best spent hunting down criminals from the darkest corners of London. As a Bow Street Runner investigating his sister’s death, he has no desire to join London’s strutting peacocks in this competition when there are more important tasks at hand.

Now, his quest leads him to one of Madeline’s “suitors,” so he agrees to help this sinful woman. But what begins as a business arrangement quickly turns into something more . . . and love blooms with a passion neither one expected.

Click cover for more info!

Review:

Anna Randol is a great new star in historical romance and she continues to hold her ground with her sophomore novel and her first in her brand new series! No exciting setting this time round, just your standard Regency England setting but Anna makes it intriguing with her thrilling tale of an ex spy looking for a fresh start and a police officer looking to solve a murder case.

Loved the main characters though it was a bit hard warming up to the heroine who came off at first as manipulative and bitchy but she turns out ok in the end. I loved that the hero was not another titled guy but a police officer who has to work to make a living-makes the romance more realistic and adds that gritty factor. Loved the tension and the NO-WE-SHOULDN”T-EVEN-THOUGH-WE-WANT-TO-SO-DAMN-BAD vibe and the two were just so well-matched in wits! Thing is, it was a very similar dynamic to her first book with the overprotective hero and the spunky, ex-spy heroine who hates being controlled… Hmmm…

However, Anna sure knows how to write a great adventure romance! This book has it all, action, a mystery, suspense, humor and most importantly a romance to swoon for! I also loved the look into the underbelly of London society-who knew how dark it really was? The pace was great and I didn’t feel like it dragged at all. The mystery aspect was well thought out, if a bit predictable but hey, this is a romance not a mystery novel! Was very fun to read nevertheless.

All in all, despite a similar romantic dynamic as the first book, this is an exciting, action-filled romance. I loved the peeks of the next 2 heroes in the series and can’t wait to see what else Anna has in store for us! 😀

Sensuality Rating: HOT ;)

Verdict: Another great romance from a rising star! Highly recommended!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars