ARC Reviews

Showing posts with label Regency. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Regency. Show all posts

15/04/2020

Fed to the Lyon (The Lyon's Den Connected World) by Mary Lancaster. Regency Romance Release & ARC Review.

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Enter the world of the most notorious gambling den in London, where matches are made... unusually. Welcome to the world of THE LYON'S DEN: The Black Widow of Whitehall Connected World, where the underground of Regency London thrives... and loves.

A high-stakes game…but who is playing?

On the day the Princess of Wales goes into exile, Diana loses both her court place and her betrothed. Devastated, she staggers home in the small hours of the morning, alone, drunk—and ruined in the eyes of Society.

In desperation, her mother takes her to the infamous matchmaker, the Black Widow of Whitehall. Abandoned and alone at the scandalous Lyon’s Den gaming house, Diana is disguised as a boy and there encounters her prospective groom, a wealthy Scottish nobleman, Lord Garvie.

She is appalled!

However, Mrs. Dove-Lyon plays a deep game, and nothing is quite as it seems at the Lyon’s Den, where Diana finds unexpected adventure, passion, heartache, and the true love she always dreamed of.

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Miss Diana Wade's life is suddenly turned upside down, when the Princess of Wales leaves for the continent taking Diana's betrothed with her.  The scandal could ruin the prospects for the rest of the family.
Lord William Garvie is a Scottish nobleman in London.  He's enjoying watching the people around him in the Lyon's Den make fools of themselves.  The Black Widow who runs the place has a reputation for making very unusual bets.  
This is a regency romance with lots of mischief and fun.  The Lyon's Den series is written by many fabulous authors and each book is great fun.  Our matchmaking widow pulls off some amazing deals.  
Really entertaining.


AMAZON.US * AMAZON.UK * AMAZON.ES



Mary Lancaster's first love was historical fiction. Since then she has grown to love coffee, chocolate, red wine and black and white films - simultaneously where possible. She hates housework.

As a direct consequence of the first love, she studied history at St. Andrews University, after which she worked variously as editorial assistant, researcher and librarian. Although she has always written stories for her own entertainment, she began to make serious efforts toward publication in order to distract herself from a job she disliked. She now writes full time at her seaside home in Scotland, which she shares with her husband and three children.

Website * Goodreads * Facebook * Twitter * BookBub




05/07/2018

The Gambler Wagers Her Baron (Craven House Series #4) by Christina McKnight. Historical Romance, Release & ARC Review.


Title: The Gambler Wagers Her Baron
Series: Craven House Series (Book Four)
Author: Christina McKnight
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency England
Release Date: June 26, 2018
Word Count: 97,000
Cover Artist: Sweet n’ Spicy Designs





When happily ever after is the name of the game, gamblers must risk it all in this emotional conclusion to Christina McKnight’s bestselling Craven House series

WAGERS GO AWRY

Payton Samuels has always known she wants more out of life than being the youngest daughter of the ton’s most disreputable family. While her siblings are content to bet their future happiness on marriage, Payton learned early on from her mother that love is fleeting and leads only to disappointment. She’s got a different plan: she’ll work as a governess for Baron Ashford’s children, but only long enough to win her fortune at one of his infamous masked gaming parties. When she loses big, Payton sees her chance at an independent life go up in flames—until Lord Ashford surprises her by paying her debts.

WHEN LOVE IS IN THE CARDS.

Since the tragic death of his wife, Damon Kinder, Lord Ashford, has been a man made of ice. His determination to never be hurt by love again runs so deep that he can’t even connect with his children. When they quickly take to Payton, he thinks he’s found a solution: she’ll give them the affection and support he can’t. As he spends more time around Payton, his heart begins to defrost, and he can’t stop thinking about the captivating governess.

But every seasoned gambler knows that eventually, luck runs out. Can two souls so burned by past loves forge a new future together?


⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐


Payton Samuels has her life plan.  Move out from under the constant loving control of her siblings,  and start an independent life.  For that she needs work,  so she takes a job as a governess.  The family she works for have a big problem that maybe she can help with.  Her gambling will hopefully help with the funds she will need when it's time to move on.  
Damon Kinder,  Lord Ashford is still suffering from the death of his wife four years earlier.  He shuts himself away from everyone,  even his children. The only time he mixes with society is at the card playing evenings he runs at his house.  Even then he hides behind a mask.  
A very emotional romance between lonely people.  Wonderful characters that you will instantly fall in love with.  This book is part of a series of stand alone stories.  All of the ones I have read are just as good as this one.  I have loved them all and can't wait to read the rest of the series. 




Christina McKnight is a book lover turned writer. From a young age, her mother encouraged her to tell her own stories. She’s been writing ever since.

Christina enjoys a quiet life in Northern California with her family, her wine, and lots of coffee. Oh, and her books…don’t forget her books! Most days she can be found writing, reading, or traveling the great state of California.

You can visit her online at the following places:



17/12/2017

Once Upon A Duke (Duke's Club #1) by Eva Devon. Historical Romance. My Review.





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What a Widow Wants:

Everything is going swimmingly for Kathryn Darrell. She's got an annuity of a hundred thousand a year, her lecherous-heart breaking husband has had the good graces to pop off, and best of all, she has her freedom-- Something she has every intention of reveling in to the fullest. And who better to revel with than Ryder Blake, the infamous Duke of Darkwell?

A Duke's Desire:

Ryder Blake, Duke of Darkwell, known as the Duke of Debauchery, is certain he will never love again. His heart lies buried with his wife and he has vowed to never give more than his body to a woman. But when Kathryn shows up on his doorstep, quite literally, demanding he show her the ways of London, he finds that his heart longs to love once again.
 

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟


Kathryn Darrell was foolish and fell in love with a man who only wanted her money.  Now she is a very wealthy widow and determined to enjoy all she has missed.  There is someone who has been in all the scandal sheets who might be able to help. 
Ryder Blake,  Duke of Darkwell buried his heart along with his wife.  He has earned the title of "The Duke of Debauchery" by throwing himself into physical pleasure.  He is also known to have very dark moods. 
Our heroine is too innocent to try and navigate the ton,  even with the help of her naughty cousin. 
Our hero is not prepared to let go of the past.  That could destroy any hope of happiness. 
An emotional and very naughty Regency romance.  It proves to us all that money can't buy happiness.  It is the first book in a series of stand alone stories that will make you want to read the rest.  Who is the next Duke,  Hunt or Aston???.
I loved it. 


Amazon.US * Amazon.UK * Amazon.ES

KOBO



USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR, Eva Devon, was raised on literary fiction, but quite accidentally and thankfully, she was introduced to romance one Christmas by Johanna Lindsey's Mallory novella, The Present. A romance addict was born. She devoured every single Lindsey novel within a few months and moved on to contemporary and paranormal with gusto. Now, she loves to write her own roguish dukes, alpha males and the heroines who tame them. She loves to hear from her readers. So please pen her a note! evadevonauthor@gmail.com



12/11/2017

A Rogue's Christmas Kiss (Must Love Rogues) by Eva Devon. Historical Romance Release & ARC Review.


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Bah and a hum bug:
Sebatian Rutherford, the new Earl of Gray, has no desire to settle down. Ever. The only thing he dislikes more than the idea of taking over his recently inherited earldom, and all it’s responsibilities, is Christmas. So, when he agrees to an arranged marriage to the former earl’s daughter, he plans on a quick wedding and a quicker return to his adventures abroad. Surely, even a hint of Christmas cheer won’t need to be shared? But when his clever new wife, Lady Marabelle begins to thaw his heart, he finds that not only is family a joy, but Christmas may be the best season to lose one’s heart.

Deck the Halls:
Lady Marabelle loves Christmas. She loves everything about it. So, when she faces her first Christmas since the death of her beloved father, married to a man she’s never met, she decides to make sure that the Christmas hating new Earl must be taught the spirit of the season. But with each day toward Christmas that comes her way, she begins to find that perhaps a marriage of convenience can be a marriage of the heart and a veritable Christmas miracle.

This was originally included in the Limited Christmas Set 'Twas the Night Before Scandal.
 

🌟🌟🌟🌟


Lady Marrabelle Danvers is about to marry a man she has never met.   She had a very loving family but they are all dead now.  The man who has inherited her father's title will be her new husband. 
This Christmas will be very different from any that came before. 
Sebastian Rutherford, the new Earl of Gray was a soldier and a spy.  He is used to being alone.  He never wanted to return to England but a man can't refuse a title. 
This is a short and very sweet Christmas story.  Lovely characters discovering each other and learning to enjoy Christmas all over again. 


Amazon.US * Amazon.UK * Amazon.ES


KOBO


USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR, Eva Devon, was raised on literary fiction, but quite accidentally and thankfully, she was introduced to romance one Christmas by Johanna Lindsey's Mallory novella, The Present. A romance addict was born. She devoured every single Lindsey novel within a few months and moved on to contemporary and paranormal with gusto. Now, she loves to write her own roguish dukes, alpha males and the heroines who tame them. She loves to hear from her readers. So please pen her a note! evadevonauthor@gmail.com





07/05/2017

Falling For The Wallflower, by Amelia Florey. Sweet Historical Romance ARC Review.

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Nicholas couldn’t think of a single reason a gentleman had not fallen madly in love with Lillian. Is it possible that the duke has feelings for her that he hasn’t previously admitted?
Nicholas Davenport, the Duke of Elmbury is friends with a woman who is a wallflower. Despite Lillian Rowe’s imperfections, she is a loyal companion. Her companionship truly enlivens the Season for him, and her brilliant conversation sustains his interest better than the rest of the ladies in London. After spending time with his childhood friend, he begins to have a change of heart, and his true feelings can no longer be ignored.
”Nicholas found himself taken aback by his own thoughts. His momentary fixation with Lillian’s keen blue eyes, and the gentle curve of her lips, was unexpected. When had he begun to realize how beautiful his childhood friend had become? When had his appreciation for her charms developed this new dimension?”
˃˃˃ Will romance blossom from the warmth of friendship?
Lillian told him plainly why a marriage between the two of them wouldn’t work. But she could not banish the thought from her mind of how happy the two of them could have perhaps been.
“It saddened her to think of Nicholas wed, to picture him happy at home with a wife who attended to his every need. Doubtless when he wed, the companionship of his bride would leave him with little need to seek Lillian’s company. She would fade to the edges of his life, just as she faded to the periphery of every crowd she found herself within.”

🌟🌟🌟🌟


Lilian Rowe has just about resigned herself to being a spinster.  She is used to being a wallflower.  There is only one man who takes any notice of her and he will only ever be just a good friend. 
Nicholas Davenport,  the Duke of Elmbury  is trying to avoid all the marriage minded mamas.  He shamelessly uses his good friend as a shield.  She is the only one he can truly relax around. 
A sweet and clean historical romance that is an entertaining and easy read. 



KOBO


23/02/2017

The Mistress Enchants Her Marquis (Craven House #2) by Christina McKnight. ARC Review & Giveaway.

 Title: The Mistress Enchants Her Marquis
Series: Craven House (Book Two)
Author: Christina McKnight
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency
Release Date: February 21, 2017


COURTSHIP WAS NEVER SO SCANDALOUS

The grandson of an unconventional marquis and son of a notorious woman, Elijah Watson, Marquis of Ridgefeld, has spent most of his life outside of London. His atypical upbringing has left him longing for roots and a traditional family life, and he’s determined to live his life above reproach. When he meets Miss Samantha Pengarden, he believes he’s found the woman he wants to marry—except she has other far more sensual ideas for him.

Known throughout the ton as the illegitimate rebellious daughter of London’s disreputable Craven House Madame, Samantha has never had to face the world without her shy twin by her side—until now. Her sister’s marriage and the return of her blackguard father leaves her alone and adrift. When Elijah agrees to escort her to the town’s most infamous establishments, she thinks she’s finally found a man with a taste for scandal and a knowledge of matters of the flesh.

But she never counted on Elijah being so honorable. When Samantha is listed as the mistress of the Marquis of Ridgefeld in White’s betting book, her reputation is in ruins—and only Elijah can save her. Can two total opposites come together for a love certain to last a lifetime?

Available at: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks


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Elija Watson the Marquis of Ridgefield is still mourning his beloved grandfather.  The man was the only family he had,  and Elijah travelled the world with him.  Now all the mementos  they collected over the years will be donated to a museum.  
Miss Samantha Pengarden escaped the madness that her sister's wedding is causing, to walk in the countryside.  Unfortunately she didn't keep an eye on the weather. 
Our heroine comes from a scandalous family but is now being accepted because of their new connections.  For such a well travelled man, our hero is surprisingly shy and uncertain of himself.  
This latest addition to the series is lots of fun, and a few tears.  With our heroine and hero trying to fill the gaps in their hearts caused by abandonment.  I now have to go and read the first in the series.  A saucy and enjoyable read.  I loved it.  

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Haven’t started the series yet?
The Thief Steals Her Earl (Craven House Book One) is on sale for just 99cents!
Available at: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks


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Miss Judith Pengarden and her twin sister have discovered that their unconventional family is in trouble with debt.  Their older siblings are doing all they can, so now it's up to them to help.  Unfortunately Judith only has one talent that can be of any use.  She can sneak in and out of places without getting caught.  
Simon Montgomery the Earl of Cartwright  collects and deals in antiquities.  He is desperately trying to recoup his family wealth after it was stolen by his uncle.  
Two good hearted people trying to save their families and getting deeper in trouble instead.  A sweet adventure for two innocents.  

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Author Bio:
Christina McKnight is a book lover turned writer. From a young age, her mother encouraged her to tell her own stories. She’s been writing ever since.

Christina enjoys a quiet life in Northern California with her family, her wine, and lots of coffee. Oh, and her books…don’t forget her books! Most days she can be found writing, reading, or traveling the great state of California.






You can visit her online at the following places:

Follow the tour and #enter to #win one of 5 paperback copies of The Thief Steals Her Earl (Craven House Book One)