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The Merchant and the Rogue is book 3 in The Dread Penny Society series by Sarah M. Eden, published by Shadow Mountain Publishers. This story is set in London 1865 and is about Dread Penny Society member Brogan Donnelly. By working there, he is assigned to secretly investigate a Soho print shop for possible criminal connection to the Russian ambassador’s office. Brogan has to be careful not to tip off shop manager Vera Sorokina about why he is there. Local merchants seem to be at risk if they don’t pay for “protection” against sabotage of their livelihoods, so Brogan and Vera work to stop the crime spree while their feelings for each other grow.

Main character is philanthropist Brogan Donnelly who has grown up as an orphan on the streets of Dublin and is passionate about making the lives of poor children easier. I keep whishing he would value himself more, but I like him a lot and he is my favorite of this story.

Supporting character is print shop manager Vera Sorokina, who seems a compassionate and confident business woman with a heart for the street children. I find her very obedient with her father and wish she would have found courage to rebel.

I have read both previous books in the series and would probably recommend reading them in order to get the complete picture, but the story reads perfectly as a standalone too. The plot centers on the secret Dread Penny Society whose purpose is to make the lives of London’s street children better. Brogan Donnelly is an active participant in this. I felt I learned even more from this book about the difficult living conditions for poor, orphaned children in the 1800s.
As it takes place in a poor area where businesses struggle to survive and criminals find a way to exploit it felt unique as I have not read anything similar.
The dramatic mystery element of figuring out who pressures shopkeepers to pay to prevent destruction of their businesses was one of my favorite parts.

The description of when Brogan and Vera met for the first time was my absolute favorite part of the story and I loved the bantering between them. Having followed the series so far, I eagerly await what the next book will be about.

Readers who enjoy historical romance stories will enjoy this. I have read quite a number of Sarah M. Eden’s books and loved them all, so I’m sure other of her fans will too. Similar authors to explore might be Abigail Wilson or Arlem Hawks.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain, Sarah M. Eden and NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: In The Merchant and the Rogue, grown-up Irish street urchin Brogan Donnelly works in a print shop to secretly investigate criminal activity when he meets kindhearted Vera Sorokina who is equally passionate about poor children. Brogan and Vera’s feelings for each other grow while they work to stop the crime spree threatening local merchants.
Rating: 5 stars / 5

A Fiancée's Guide to First Wives and Murder is book 4 in A Countess of Harleigh Mystery series by Dianne Freeman, published by Kensington Books. The story is set in London 1899 when a French woman turns up on Frances, Countess of Harleigh’s doorstep claiming to be her fiancée George Hazeldon’s wife. She is later found dead in Frances’ garden and these developments may have a detrimental effect on Frances’s and George’s reputations and future marriage. With her usual energy and force Frances meddles in police investigation with the help of her fiancée. Both use their social skills and contacts to avoid a massive scandal.

Main character is Frances, Countess of Harleigh who is like a dog with a bone when it comes to mysteries and who has no problems taking risks. She seems a person with a zest for life who deals effectively with whatever is thrown her way. I love that about her.

Supporting character is the Hon. George Hazelton. There seems to be plenty of mystery related to his background, which I’m sure will gradually be revealed in future books. He seems attentive to Frances and has the makings of a good Victorian husband.

What I enjoyed the most about this story is that it reads like a sitcom. It stands out with the particularly funny start when George’s alleged wife turns up. The plot and characters are catching and keep me fascinated all the way through to the totally surprising ending. I loved how the murder victim’s mysterious background and her connections to Russia included a lot of drama and surprise elements to the story. The drama of investigating the murder understandably took center stage, but we are still able to sense the connection between Frances and George. How they function as a couple in the stressful situation when his alleged first wife turns up. In short this is an unputdownable book I thoroughly enjoyed.

The lighthearted dialogue and writing kept me entertained and I will recommend this book to anyone who likes a funny and easy read suitable all year round. It is part of a series, but no actual need to read it in order because each story stands perfectly on its own. I did, however, get curious about how Frances came to be a Countess. -Maybe you will too. But I also look forward to seeing what the next book in the series will be about.
Similar authors to explore might be Anna Lee Huber or Katharine Schellman.
Thank you to #Kensington Books, #Dianne Freeman and #NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: A Fiancée's Guide to First Wives and Murder is the unputdownable new mystery where Frances solves the murder of a woman with connections to Russia who claims to be George’s first wife.
Rating: 4 stars / 5

Death in Daylesford is book 21 in the Phryne Fisher’s Mysteries series by Kerry Greenwood, published by Poisoned Pen Press. This time Miss Fisher is taking a holiday of sorts to visit a spa for WWI war veterans to consider donating to the cause. Mysteries seem to follow her and Dylesford and Hepburn Springs is no different. A murderer is on the loose specializing in killing victims at local crowded events, staging it as accidents. Women also seem to quietly disappear from farms in the area and Miss Fisher sets out to find what’s really going on in the beautiful Victoria spa country. At home in Melbourne Miss Fisher’s 3 adoptive children are solving their very own mystery, finding what happened to a drowned schoolgirl found floating in the harbor.

Main character is baron’s daughter Phryne Fischer who seems a confident woman who work as a private investigator. She seems to have a strong character and doesn’t care a jot that people might judge her for living a very different life from women of her time. I find that impressive, which makes her my favorite of this story.

Supporting character is Lady’s Maid Dorothy, Dot, Williams, who seems to take on a bland presence wearing beige/brown clothing at all times. She seems to have an interesting relationship to her boss, speaking to Miss Fisher like a servant when in public, but being friend and confidant in private. I found her likeable and dependable. Like the ideal practical kind of “female Watson”.

This is the first book I have read by Kerry Greenwood, and read it as a standalone. That worked out perfectly, but I wish I had read book 1 and maybe a few more from the start to get a grip on how Miss Fisher developed into the formidable, renowned character she is in book 21. In this book you kind of get a 2 for 1 deal as the plot reads like two separate mysteries. I loved the descriptions of prosperous Australian lifestyle of the 1920s. I have read a few contemporary books set in Australia before, but this one stood out with its historical setting, the colorful characters (apart from beige Dot) and the great writing; even funny in places. I’m very pleased there are so many more books in the series. The murder in the middle of a festival was an excellent dramatic element, but my absolute favorite was the fabulous surprise ending where the identity of the culprit took me totally by surprise.

I feel hooked by this series and is excited to see what the next book will be about. I recommend this one to readers who enjoy an excellently written historical mystery with a fabulous ending. Similar authors to explore might be Victoria Purman or Rosalie Ham. Thank you to #Poisoned Pen Press and #Edelweiss+ for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: Death in Daylesford is the fabulous new story where Miss Fisher experiences murders in the middle of crowds and local women of Daylesford mysteriously go missing from their homes. Miss Fisher’s children work with Melbourne police to find what happened to a schoolgirl drowned in the harbor.
Rating: 4 stars / 5

Isabelle and Alexander is the standalone by Rebecca Anderson, published by Shadow Mountain Publishing. We follow Isabelle Rackham as she marries wealthy industrial cotton mill owner Alexander Osgood and moves to Manchester. The marriage is arranged and Isabelle struggles to get close to her new husband who hardly takes time to talk to her and spends most of his days in his textile mill.
To remedy Isabelle’s loneliness, Alexander takes her to his country estate where he suffers a devastating equestrian accident leaving him unable to walk. This challenging path in their relationship lets the newlyweds find new ways to build their relationship and Isabelle is adamant she will be in charge of her husbands’ care despite not being a trained nurse. The couple forges ways to build their relationship through this challenging situation and Isabelle finds new strength and courage, which in turn helps Alexander hope for his recovery.
Main character Isabelle Rackham comes from a privileged background in the Lake District, but seems to be practical, industrious and extremely patient. She seems kind and compassionate, and finds a way to bypass seemingly impossible situations. This makes her my favorite of this story.

Supporting character is Alexander Osgood starts out as a secretly frightened man who has married above his station. He seems glum, uninviting and disinterested, but his character develops a lot as the story progresses.
I felt the plot was well researched and stood out. I don’t think I have read a historical romance fiction story describing conditions inside a Manchester factory of 1800s and dealing with accident recovery issues quite like this. Consequences of the riding accident made and great drama effect which became a core part of the story.
The surprising and enjoyable part about mentally disabled Glory Kenworthy was my favorite of the story while the attitude of Dr Fredericks and his nurse annoyed me a lot. His character played kind of a villainous part of sorts. Writing about rehabilitation after spinal injury in 1800s must have taken a lot of research. As a nurse I found it fascinating (and scary) how this might have worked. I enjoyed how Isabelle and Alexander’s characters developed through the story, both separately and together. It felt easy to relate to their hardships in this challenging situation and particularly easy to understand Alexander’s reactions. It was a great twist to read about a couple who were wealthy, but still had to work for their privileged lifestyle. Characters in others historical romances I have read seemingly had no concerns about money at all.

This great story from the new to me author #Rebecca Anderson makes me look forward to seeing what she comes up with next. Readers of historical romance will enjoy this story. Similar authors to explore might be Abigail Wilson or J'nell Ciesielski.
Thank you to #Shadow Mountain Publishing and #NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: Isabelle and Alexander is the enjoyably entertaining historical romance about the wealthy newlyweds in an arranged marriage who find a different way to closeness as a tragic equestrian accident demand new strength and courage to recover and have a future together.
Rating: 4 stars / 5

The Nature of a Lady is the first book in The Secrets of the Isles series by Roseanna M. White, published by Bethany House Publishers. The setting is the Isles of Scilly, Cornwall 1906. Escaping her family’s marriage schemes, main character Lady Elizabeth, Libby, Sinclair puts together a plan to spend the summer on the Islands of Scilly enjoying all the flora and fauna she loves so much. She meets hansom local vicar Oliver Tremayne who searches for his missing sister Elisabeth, Beth. Mysterious clues come to light and danger increases. As Libby and Oliver work together to find what’s going on with Beth, they become very close friends. Libby’s family wants her to marry a titled gentleman, so if she wants to be with Oliver, she will have to give up her family’s financial and emotional support.
Main character is earl’s sister and passionate naturalist Lady Elizabeth, Libby, Sinclair. She seems close to her family and doesn’t seem to have much of a rebel in her. As the story progressed, I enjoyed that she became a little more assertive.
Supporting character is vicar Oliver Tremayne who does what locally is considered “elbow-magic” which inspires people to open up to him. This part adds a funny element to his character and the story, which I love, and he is my favorite.

This reads like a historical romance with a mystery element. The story stands out from others I have read set in Cornwall. The setting on the islands off the coast added an interesting new twist to the plot. I particularly loved the expertly written dramatic scenes. I felt a bit of a Poldark vibe with the seaside setting and the local way of life at the time. Libby’s brother’s character I felt started out as a bit of an ass, to be perfectly honest, but he was probably the character who developed the most. My favorite part of the story was descriptions of the rowing competition and party on the beach, which added a feeling of Cornish culture. I appreciate all the thorough research that must have gone into writing this.

Libby wants to believe in God, but struggles with what she has learned from her local vicar. I really enjoyed reading about how she arrives at a greater trust in God through her discussions with Oliver.

As this is the exiting first start to the Secrets of the Isles series, I eagerly await book 2. Anyone who enjoys a great historical romance with a mystery twist will love this one. As will fans of Roseanna M. White’s other works. Similar authors to explore might be #Kristi Ann Hunter or #Erica Vetsch.

Thank you to #Bethany House Publishers, #Roseanna M. White and #NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.
Conclusion: The Nature of a Lady is the captivating story about gentlewoman Libby who escapes her family’s marriage schemes to spend the summer on the Isles of Scilly. She meets hansom local vicar Oliver, who searches for his missing sister. They both get mixed up in her secret and dangerous activity.
Rating: 5 stars / 5

No Journey too far is book 2 in the McAlister Family series by Carrie Turansky, published by Multnomah. The story is set in Canada 1919 and is about Garth McAlister as he returns from the Great War. As children believed to be orphans he and his 2 sisters were shipped off to Canada to work on farms and after 10 years of search, his family has still not heard from his sister, Grace. Garth decides to go back in search for her and also for his sweetheart, Emma Lafferty. Grace was adopted by a wealthy family in Toronto and is now about to be launched into Society to get married. She resents the pressure and reaches out to her family in England. Her address reaches Garth, and he visits her. Grace’s adoptive parents are convinced she is an orphan, so they brusquely throw him out, which makes Grace run away. Garth continues his mission to find sweetheart Emma. His skill and connections come in handy when helping her out of some really difficult circumstances.

Main character is ex-Corporal Garth McAlister who seems compassionate, well rounded and likable. As a British Home Child he was badly treated as a farm hand, but seems to have soldiered through without too many emotional scars.

Supporting character is Emma Lafferty seems quite level headed and assertive as she figures out who to contact for information about Garth. From time to time she gets doubts Garth commitment, but I was pleased to see regains her trust again. I found her easy to like and my favorite of this story.

I read No Journey too far as a standalone which worked perfectly, but reading book one first would give the complete picture of the McAlister family. The parts about Garth’s life within his family were my absolute favorites of the story. I didn’t know much about British Home Children or about American farm life in the 1900s, so it felt like I learned a lot by reading this story.

I enjoyed how the spiritual element was at the forefront for most of the story. Grace was adopted by a family who only went to church a few times a year. They didn’t pray or read the Bible, so Grace’s spiritual journey seemed to begin when she found the family Bible and started reading it in secret.

This is the last in the 2 book series, and I wonder what Carrie Turansky’s next book will be about. Anyone who enjoys historical romance will enjoy this one. As will fans of Carrie Turansky’s other works. Similar authors to explore might be Laura Frantz or Jody Hedlund.
Thank you to Multnomah, Carrie Turansky and NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: No Journey too far takes ex-corporal Garth McAlister to Canada in search of his sweetheart and his lost sister, Grace. He helps Grace escape her wealthy and powerful adoptive parents and he has to use all his skill and connections to help his sweetheart out of her difficulties for them to have a future together.

Winning the Gentleman is book 2 in the Hearts on the Heath series by Kristi Ann Hunter, published by Bethany House Publishers. The story is set in Newmarket, England 1817 and is about stable manager Aaron Whitworth as he tries to find a jockey to enter the next horse race. He is shocked when Sophia Fitzroy turns up as she is a trainer and circus artist with superb skills on horseback. Aaron has dedicated his life to maintaining a low-key position on the outskirts of Society, but Sophia’s presence makes him rethink his attitude towards life. Sophia has a dream of starting her own riding school. They both make every effort to stay away from each other. But feelings change while they are not looking.

Stable manager Aaron Whitworth is sensitive about his background as a Lord’s illegitimate son, but he is well educated and has loyal friends. His view of women’s inferiority seems typical for his time but he seems kind and emphatic.

Circus artist and jockey Sophia Fitzroy was orphaned at 17 and has lived a hard life on the move with her twin brother. She is a super skilled equestrian, but is full of self doubt. I find her a human, relatable and well rounded character very easy to like. She is my favorite of this story. Descriptions of Sophia’s struggle to be a female jockey in a male equestrian world added descriptions of some heart wrenching consequences she had to endure which made an excellent dramatic element to the story.

The signature lighthearted and beautifully skilled writing has made Kristi Ann Hunter one of my go-to authors for years. This plot stands out as it is set in English Society’s horse racing community, which I have not read as a specific plot before. Descriptions of the competitive horse racing feels expertly done; like I was in the horse race myself. Fans of the author may be happy to recognize characters from her other books and while I’m pretty sure you would want to read other of her books, this plot easily reads as a standalone. I eagerly await the release of Hearts on the Heath book 3.

My favorite part of the story was the surprising and utterly touching twist towards the end. I can’t tell you much about it, only that it made the story stand out as captivatingly entertaining and memorable.

Both Aaron and Sophia were on spiritual journeys. Sophia constantly prayed for a better life while she struggled in the most difficult of conditions. Aaron started reading the Bible as he became increasingly confused about his future and felt unsure about what changes to make.

Thank you to #Bethany House Publishers, #Kristi Ann Hunter and #NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: Winning the Gentleman is the captivating and thoroughly entertaining story about how illegitimate son Aaron desperately tries to fit into Society while super skilled female equestrian Sophie turns his world upside down and makes him question his life decisions.

Death with a double Edge is book 4 in the historical murder mystery series by Anne Perry, published by Ballantine Books. If features junior barrister Daniel Pitt who is assigned to secretly investigate the mysterious murder of top financial barrister Jonah Drake to keep the law firm above suspicion in case his last activity was not exactly above board. Danile’s father, Head of Special Branch Thomas Pitt, offers valuable advice while his trusted friend and colleague Toby Kitteridge works on the legal issues. Together they reveal ties to the murder of a woman with connections to a number of wealthy men and find links to politics and dangerous illegal activity. As the case moves forward, more people are found dead in the same area of London. –Even to Daniel’s own family get too close to danger.

Main character, junior barrister Daniel Pitt is well connected with a middleclass upbringing. He seems quite empathic and broad minded for a man of his time, particularly his view of women is quite impressive. It’s easy to name him my favorite of this story.
Supporting character is colleague and friend Toby Kitteridge who has worked in the law firm for 8 years. He seems a methodical, trustworthy and kind man who seems to devote all his time to the job.

The setting of this story is late spring/early summer of 1911in London. Other books I have read of Anne Perry has been set in autumn/winter with plenty of darkness, rain and foggy cold weather where the characters are in need of huddling in front of fireplaces with cups of tea to warm themselves and dry up. This one stands out with its spring vibe and descriptions of light, sun and flowers. I also loved the historical context of London 1911. Technical inventions like motor driven vehicles have replaced hansom cabs and horse drawn carriages. The writing is beautiful and I particularly loved the description of feelings and closeness between Daniel and his parents which are my favorite part s of the story. When Daniel uses his parents as sounding boards, it clarifies the drama and adds an enjoyable sense of danger and gloom to the story. The dialogue is super clear and helps readers follow every step of the way as the plot is meticulously ironed out.

Readers who enjoy historical murder mystery would enjoy this one and might wish to follow the new series. Fans of Anne Perry would love this addition to her extensive work. Thank you to Ballantine Books, author Anne Perry and my local library for the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: Death with a double Edge is the fascinating story where junior barrister Daniel Pitt investigates the murder of his senior colleague who has gotten too close to a case with ties to politics and a luxury prostitute with connections to a number of wealthy men. Daniel’s own family ends up in danger.

Beauty among Ruins is the standalone novel by J'nell Ciesielski, published by Thomas Nelson. The year is 1915 and we follow socialite Lily Durham when she is sent to England as punishment for having played too many tricks on her parents. They hope she will find an eligible husband, but Lily takes position as nurse’s aid at Kinclavoch Castle convalescent home for WWI soldiers in Scotland. The matron thinks her an air-head unable to do any kind of real work and challenges her with the worst assignments. But Lily is adamant to help and proves to have excellent bedside manner and a knack for keeping the patient’s spirits up. The Laird, Alec MacGregor is weighed down by financial problems, but Lily’s zest for life manages to get him out of his dark place and improve his courage.
Someone seems to be working to ruin the estate. What seems like accidents happen and a patient goes missing. Lily and Alec grow closer as they work to figure out who is responsible.

Main character is socialite Lily Durham who outward has a zest for life but inward suffers raging insecurities. I feel for her as she has heard all her life that her only purpose in life is to make a good marriage. In this story her character goes through an impressive development and she starts to see a new purpose.

Supporting character is Alec MacGregor, Lord Strathem of Kinclavoch whose character starts out as a brooding recluse. He worries about his estate and his constant leg pain. His character goes through a personal development as he has a shift in his emotions and view of life.

I felt this plot stood out with its interesting setting in Scotland and the placing of the entitled main character in an environment where she has to overcome more challenges than merely finding a husband. Taking place in a castle gave it a vibe reminiscent to Downton Abby; only more run down due to financial troubles. The brooding recluse of a Laird also made me think of the initial part of Beauty and The Beast. The combination of the interesting mystery part and the slow burn romance, including vivid descriptions of the scenery around the Castle, transferred me to the Scottish Highlands, where I hope to go some day. Very hard to decide if my favorite part was the mystery or the slow burn romance. Both were captivating and excellently written . I loved the funny dialogue between Lily and Alec and found it fascinating to follow the development of their relationship as they ruffled each other’s feathers and challenged each other’s vulnerabilities. I think they both were favorite characters. The surprising and amusing part where Lily’s parents showed up I thoroughly enjoyed.

Anyone who enjoys WWI historical romances with a bit of a unique twist will enjoy this one. Similar authors to explore might be Abigail Wilson or Michelle Griep. Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: Beauty among Ruins is the captivating, unique historical romance set in a Scottish castle converted to WWI soldier’s convalescent home where an American socialite finds romance while mysterious things happen.

The Prince of Spies is book 3 in the Hope and Glory series by Elizabeth Camden, published by Bethany House Publishers. The story is set in 1902 Washington DC, and we follow ex-government spy, now magazine journalist, Luke Delacroix, as he works to improve food legislation. He meets governmental photographer Marianne Magruder and instantly falls for her, but when they learn each other’s family names they realize they have landed in the middle of their families’ long lasting feud, and it seems impossible to have a future together. Luke takes part in a test of canned foods, while Marianne’s photography skills prove important in the work for food safety.

Main character Luke Delacroix is a magazine journalist who worked secretly as a government spy. He seems the character who develops the most through the 3 books, from an entitled thrill-seeker in need of his brother’s rescuing in the first book to a more mature adult who still has a lot of self doubt. He spends more time contemplating the value of his work and his future, which makes him very relatable.

Supporting character, governmental photographer Marianne Magruder is very grateful to her powerful father for having given her a privileged life in want for nothing and acts like I would expect for a woman of her time. I love that she goes through a personal development. This makes her my favorite of this story.

The Prince of Spies reads well as a standalone. Hints to previous books are given, but it would make the experience even richer to have read the two previous installments. Apart from following Luke’s journey to find love, this fascinating plot focuses on his use of contacts to improve the food and drug industry. My favorite part of the story was the little mystery element about Marianne’s estranged aunt.

While in Cuban prison, Luke had plenty of time for Bible reading and he seems to have established a strong faith. Marianne seemed to have a spiritual awakening towards the end of the story.

Elizabeth Camden has been one of my go-to authors for years. I love her writing style and choose to read one of her books every year. Anyone who likes romance plots combined with technical inventions will enjoy this. Fans of Elizabeth Camden will love this story. Similar authors to explore might be Roseanna M. White or Jody Hedlund.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishers, Elizabeth Camden and NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: in this fascinating story ex-government spy, now magazine journalist, Luke Delacroix is working to improve food safety laws while struggling to be with the woman he loves. Her father owns the company which produces unsafe canned foods and is the one Luke is fighting against.

Rating: 5 stars / 5

Georgana’s Secret is the standalone regency romance debut by Arlem Hawks, published by Shadow Mountain Publishing. Napoleonic Wars are raging and Navy captain’s daughter Georgana Woodall has been removed from her abusive grandmother’s care and is in disguise as a cabin boy on Her Majesty’s Navy vessel Deborah headed for Antigua. First Lieutenant Dominic Peyton takes cabin boy George under his wing. Through the dangerous French attacks on the vessel, they become close. Dominic suspects something is up with the little cabin boy and there seems something strange about his family background.

Main character Navy Captain’s daughter is Georgana Woodall. I feel desperately sorry for her having been exposed to her grandmother’s violence most of her life and is bullied by the other ship mates. But throughout the story she finds impressive strength and compassion within herself and she is my favorite of this story.

Supporting character First Lieutenant Dominic Peyton seems a light hearted and happy person in total control of who he is and what his future holds. He seems to have slightly liberal views on propriety which impresses me. Events on the convoy mission challenge his view of life.
This story reminds me of a movie favorite of mine, Master and Commander, which has similar setting aboard a British Navy vessel during Napoleonic Wars. I can’t remember having read any plot which deal with the combination of romance and nautical warfare quite like this. I know we are only at the beginning, but this unique story just might turn out to be one of my favorites this year.
The beautiful writing intrigued and enthralled me. Descriptions were so vivid I felt transferred to the ship. It was hard to take a break to get some sleep. I just had to find what would happen next with Georgana and Dominic. I loved that there even was light hearted, amusing dialogue in places. It’s been a long time since a character has engaged me like Georgana. She seemed a well developed character with the perfect blend of human and believable. So relatable she could have lived next door.

A little surprise gem was included as Georgana and Dominic enjoyed a little escape to a faraway beach in Antigua where they got to be alone together (Georgana being George). This part I felt was particularly well written and was my absolute favorite of the story.

I am really excited to see what Arlem Hawks comes up with next and
anyone who enjoys a great regency romance set at sea will love this.
Similar authors to explore might be Sarah E. Ladd or Ronda Gibb Hinrichson. Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing, Arlem Hawks and NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: This beautifully written, thoroughly engaging regency about Georgana who hides as a sailor trying to stay away from her violent grandmother, when she meets a man whose only love is the sea.
Rating: 5 stars / 5

When Cordelia Owens’ sweetheart Phineas enlists to fight against the Yankees, she tries to keep up hope by writing heroic stories. Phineas gets wounded in a raid on his vessel and struggles for months to make it home to Delia. They both have to get real on the issue of keeping slaves as well as deal with the future of their relationship.

Dreams of Savannah is the standalone novel written by Roseanna M. White, published by Bethany House Publishers. Setting of the plot is Savannah, Georgia 1861 and we get to follow Cordelia Owens as her sweetheart Phineas Dunn has gone off to serve in the Confederate navy. He gets shot, swept aboard and lost, but in spite of bad news, Cordelia writes heroic, hopeful stories and does not accept he is dead. Seriously wounded, Phineas gets washed ashore in Cuba where free black, British Vicar Luther Bromley, agrees to nurse him back to health in return for Phineas’ help finding his illegally sold wife. As war rages ever closer to Savannah, increasing numbers of slaves run away to join the Yankees and be declared free. Cordelia and Phineas have to get real on the issue of keeping slaves as well as deal with the future of their relationship.

Main character is Cordelia, Delia, Owens, enjoys a super privileged lifestyle. She has an impressive imagination she uses to raise funds for Confederacy and keep up hope in others. Her character shows a healthy set of values as the plot progresses.

British Vicar, Luther Bromley, is my favorite character of this story. He finds himself in a very challenging position as a free black in an area where people like him are slaves. Description of the relationship developing between Phineas and Luther were my favorite part of the plot.

As a European, this is a very interesting plot from a new to me author. I loved the amusing and lighthearted writing and dialogue. I particularly found the written Gullah-English of the slaves very entertaining and felt this added uniqueness to the plot. I loved how the Lucas Bromley character taught me more about the difference between a free black and a slave.
Delia’s cousin Julius contributed drama to the plot as he was a threat to both Delia and her lady’s maid slave Salina, while trying to present himself as a worthy suitor for Delia. He made my skin crawl every time he was present in the plot. For this, I found his character both excellent and believable if not exactly likable.

Anyone who enjoys who enjoys historical romance, specifically set in the Civil War would enjoy this one. Fans of Roseanna M. White would definitely love it, I think. Similar author to explore might be Tamara Alexander.
Thank you to #Bethany House Publishers, @roseannamwhite and #NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: Dreams of Savannah is the captivating novel by Roseanna M. White about Delia and Phin’s privileged life as war breaks out. He enlists, everything changes and she tries to keep up hope by writing heroic stories. They both have to get real on the issue slavery and deal with the future of their relationship.

The Vanishing at Loxby Manor is the standalone by Abigail Wilson, published by Thomas Nelson. The story is set in Kent, England 1816, and is about gentlewoman Charity Halliwell who has returned from Ceylon to stay as the Cavanagh family’s guest. She finds them terribly distraught because their daughter has misbehaved and disappeared and keeps seeing lights from the nearby Abbey. Locals are scared and keep away from it while some mysterious activity seems to be going on. She gets help from her close friend and heir to the Manor, Piers Cavanagh, to investigate what has happened to his sister and if the disappearance is part of a lager mystery.

Main character is gentlewoman Charity Halliwell seems a vulnerable woman who has suffered a blow to her selfworth she tries to keep secret. She is relatable and I feel for her, but she also frustrates me as she keeps things hidden and gets in her own way. She seems a well developed character who is easy to like and is my favorite of this story.

Supporting character is heir to the Manor Piers Cavanagh who is a botanist. Having been ostracized from Society following rumors of cowardice, he seems a really good person. Circumstances have not been on his side and he has suffered the harsh, unfair judgment of The Ton.

Main dramatic element of this story is the mysterious disappearance which makes Charity and Piers investigate local matters left alone for years. Rigging of horse races is an interesting element I have not read about before.
The writing has a deliciously dark and mysterious vibe which I love to read this time of year. Charity lands in kind of an investigator role. A“Miss Marple Light” if you will.
Charity and Piers have strong feelings from five years ago before Charity went to Ceylon. I enjoyed the process as complications in their relationship get a chance to be straightened out and feelings rekindled. This is my favorite part of the story.
The faith element is weaved into the last part of the plot as Charity and Piers have to trust God to help them with their struggles.

The ending to this story deserves a few sentences of its own as it was surprising beyond belief. I had my eye on several of the characters, but never the actual culprit. I really loved that.

This is the second book I have read by Abigail Wilson and I have loved them both. She is firmly on my radar now and I am eagerly awaiting what she comes up with next. Readers of Historical romance and Historical mystery I’m sure will enjoy The Vanishing at Loxby Manor. Fans of Abigail Wilson will definitely love it.
Similar authors to explore might be Sarah E. Ladd or Michelle Griep.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Conclusion: The Vanishing at Loxby Manor is the intriguingly mysterious historical which includes disappearance, murder and the rekindling of lost love. All tied together in an enjoyably unexpected ending.

When crime photographer and news reporter Sarah Bain gets married to
Detective Sergeant Thomas Barrett, the ceremony gets interrupted by a murder. The victim is a photographer specializing in taking scam photos of ghosts. Sarah investigates the technology and tricks used to con grieving people.

A Portrait of Peril is book 5 in the Victorian Mystery series by Laura Joh Rowland, published by Crooked Lane Books. The setting is London 1890 and we follow newspaper photographer Sarah Bain, her police husband and her news photography/reporter team as they investigate how some members of the spiritualist community use a combination of new technology and tricks to con grieving people. Sarah and Thomas’ wedding ceremony is interrupted when
a scam photographer is found murdered in the church crypt. Later his publisher is found dead too. A member of Sarah’s team is standing over the body with blood on his hands and he ends up in jail charged with the murder. Besides investigating the two murders, Sarah secretly looks into the murder case relating to her own family.

Main character is crime photographer and reporter Sarah Bain. She is very self sufficient and has a hard time controlling her temper and struggles with the relationship with her late mother. She seems a complex and believable character who is my favorite of this story.

Supporting character is detective Sergeant Thomas Barrett. He seems a bit bland to me, and I struggle to connect with him. But I picked up on his deepest respect/fear for his mother. I wonder what that might mean for his relationship with fiercely independent Sarah.

I enjoyed how this story starts where similar reads have ended- with marriage. I found it strange and surprising that Sarah and Thomas didn’t find it terribly disturbing to have their wedding ceremony interrupted by a murder. They seemed to go on with things like on a normal day.

The plot contained details of previous stories which made it function as a standalone, but I would have preferred to read the series from the beginning to get to know the characters and follow their development through the series. As I jumped in at book 5, I felt I had missed out on this.
My favorite part of the story was descriptions of the living arrangements with Sarah’s group of unlikely friends and co-workers. The least favorite part was descriptions of an autopsy procedure.

Anyone who loves historical crime fiction will enjoy this. As will fans of Laura Joh Rowland. Similar authors to explore might be Anna Lee Huber or Erin Lindsey.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: A Portrait of Peril is the interesting and entertaining story about a wedding ceremony interrupted by the murder of a photographer specializing in ghost photos to con grieving relatives.

Rookie constable Jackson Forge’s first assignment is to find a missing cabby. To do that, he needs thief ringleader Kit Turner’s local knowledge and connections. In this unlikely alliance both have to trust each other with their lives as they unravel criminal activity with ties to City public office.
The Thief of Blackfriars Lane is the standalone novel written by Michelle Griep, published by Barbour Fiction. The plot is set in London 1885, and we follow fresh-out-of-training Constable Jackson Forge who is assigned to find the missing cab driver who is thief ringleader Kit Turner’s foster dad. With her extensive local knowledge and connections, Jackson gets to experience an underworld of dangerous cutthroats and cheats while orphan Kit has to learn to trust again. They deal with life threatening situations connected to criminal activity with ties to City public office.

Main character is rookie Constable Jackson Forge who seems to be a well rounded character from a relatively secure family background. He seems the voice of reason in this story and tries to keep Kit away from the worst of the life threatening madness she gets into.

Supporting character is thief ringleader and orphan Kit Turner who is a feisty, brave and very resourceful young woman hiding her loneliness and vulnerability. She is complex and struggles to trust, which makes her realistic and appealing character my favorite.

I loved how this plot was action packed and drew me into underworld London of 1800s. The stunning descriptions, particularly of the London underground (before tubes), made me feel a part the plot. I felt the characters were relatable and I enjoyed how Jackson and Kit kept meeting cynical, dangerous characters scheming to make big money and get one over on competition.
The excellent research built an exciting plot offering all my favorite elements of a story. One part mystery and one part romance all tied together in a historical setting. With the Dickensian feel, the amusing writing and dialogue made it one of the most entertaining reads in a very long time.
My favorite part was description of how the relationship between Jackson and Kit developed from the initial friendship to budding romance, as they faced mortal danger together. The descriptions of the extreme poverty, fear and despair of a woman who tries to support her children while suffering illness, was not my favorite. But I appreciate the dramatic effect. Michelle Griep is fast becoming one of my go-to-authors in historical romance, because I enjoy her action packed plots so much. I’ll be eagle-eying booksellers for her next release.
Anyone who enjoys action packed historical romance with a Dickensian twist would love this. As will fans of Michelle Griep’s other work. Similar authors to explore might be Abigail Wilson or Sarah E. Ladd. Thank you to Barbour Fiction and NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: The Thief of Blackfriars Lane is the packed and exiting story about rookie Constable Jackson Forge and thief ringleader Kit Turner who team up to find her foster dad. They get in life threatening situations while unraveling criminal activity with ties to City public office.

When Baronet’s daughter and amateur sleuth Rosalind Thorne is asked to investigate what appears to be a suicide, she finds nothing is as it seems. Among the upper crust of society she discovers motives for bad deeds fueled by financial greed and social ambition.

A Lady Compromised is book 4 in Rosalind Thorne Mysteries by Darcie Wild, published by Kensington Books. This is the very entertaining and intriguing story about amateur sleuth Rosalind Thorne as she is invited to help solve a mysterious case. The authorities have decided it was suicide, but the victim’s sister thinks he was shot as he was getting ready to duel. Rosalind’s investigation reveals a string of hidden secrets and cover-ups among upper class families. They consider themselves beyond reproach, which the investigation totally contradicts.

Main character is Baronet’s daughter and amateur sleuth Rosalind Thorne. Her family has fallen on hard times following her father’s forger activity. She tries to hide this while assisting friends in need using her investigation skills and connections. She travels to opulent English country estates not unlike Agatha Christie’s Poirot.

Dowager Lady Casselmaine is a well developed and interesting supporting character who seems to have chosen a reclusive life. Her character goes through a development process from rather standoffish into a more amiable person who tries to open herself up to the world and live a better life. For this reason she is my favorite of this story.

The fly-on-the-wall perspective of the upper class lifestyle I found thoroughly amusing. I can’t remember having read anything with similar detailed descriptions of how dinner parties might feel for guests. The characters came alive and felt both relatable and realistic in this setting. My favorite part was descriptions of the Dowager Countess’ journey and development through the story. I also loved following Rosalind’s somewhat complicated and interesting past with her host.

I didn’t know much beforehand about duels, which played an important role in the plot. I very much enjoyed the descriptions of the secrecy surrounding it. Bad attitudes against foreigners and a notion that some people have “superior genes” made the plot stand out, and added drama. I found this a unique, surprising element I have not read about before.

I read this as a standalone, which worked perfectly. The ending left me curious and opens up for the next book. While this is the first cozy mystery I have read by Darcie Wilde, I would very much like to start from the beginning and read the whole series.

Anyone who enjoys the affluent country environments reminiscent of Agatha Christie and Jane Austin would love this. Fans familiar with Darcie Wilde’s works would too.
Similar authors to explore might be Andrea Penrose and Rosemary Simpson.

Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for this opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: A Lady Compromised is the entertaining and intriguing new installment in Rosalind Thorne Mysteries series. Amateur sleuth Rosalind Thorne solves crimes in Jane Austin-like opulent English country environments. Somebody ends up dead in what appears to be a duel gone horribly wrong. Bad attitude against foreigners was a unique and surprising element adding drama to the story.

On a stormy night Physician’s daughter Laura Callaway is alerted that there’s a shipwreck on the local shore with only one survivor. Alexander Lucas hides his secrets well, but danger seems to follow him to Cornwall.

A Castaway in Cornwall is written by Julie Klassen, published by Bethany House Publishers. The story is set in North Cornwall 1813 and we follow Laura Callaway as she works on her admirable project to salvage trinkets from wrecks and inform next of kin of their loved ones lost at sea. When another ship wrecks, a man is washed ashore and ends up in Laura’s care to be nursed back to life. He presents himself as Alexander Lucas, has a foreign accent and reveals very little about who he is and where he is from.
While this is the second book I have read recently with similar setting, this plot stands out in the way it describes people’s struggles to survive in rather modest circumstances. With a backdrop of the Napoleonic War, the story deals with the need to belong to a family and a community. As an orphan, Laura struggles with both.

Main character physician’s daughter Laura Callaway lost her parents and lives with non-blood relatives. For a woman who struggles so much, I quite admire how she is able to make such a difference in other people’s lives and that’s why she is my favorite of this story.

Supporting character naval sea Captain Alexander Lucas struggles with consequences of war, and goes through a process of learning how to trust again. I felt he seemed human and likable as we got to follow his thoughts and perspectives. Danger seemed to follow him ashore in Cornwall.

I loved the vivid descriptions of daily life and occasional celebrations at the Cornish coast. I could easily see how story could easily be adapted to a movie reminiscent of Poldark. I found the characters relatable and many of them sympathetic. A few really unlikable ones wired me up and added great drama. The mystery element was my favorite part, which related to Alexander Lucas previous life and family background gradually told via his perspective of the story.

The romance part of the story seemed to be on the backburner until the last part of the plot. As danger was at the forefront, that made perfect sense to me. I enjoyed the dramatic parts of the story and the slightly surprising elements at the end. I felt it was all expertly tied up into a satisfying conclusion to this standalone novel.

Anyone who enjoys a historical romance set in Cornwall will love this story. As will fans of Julie Klassen. Similar authors to explore while eagerly awaiting next release from Julie Klassen
might be Kristi Ann Hunter or Jody Hedlund Thank you to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for this eARC which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: A Castaway in Cornwall is the entertaining and enjoyable story about a woman who struggles to belong and a man marked by war who both long for a place to call home.
Rating: 4 stars / 5
Main reasons: great plot and mystery element, relatable characters, signature writing.

When priceless diamonds are stolen socialite Prudence MacKenzie and colleague ex-Pinkerton investigator Geoffrey Hunter takes on the case. A series of mysterious deaths take place, which seem connected to the diamond theft.

Death, Diamonds and Deception is book 5 in A Gilded Age Mystery series by Rosemary Simpson, published by Kensington Publishing Corporation. The story is set in New York 1889 as famous and priceless diamonds are stolen and heiress Prudence MacKenzie and her colleague ex-Pinkerton investigator Geoffrey Hunter investigate the case.

Main character is late judge’s daughter Prudence MacKenzie. She is fiercely independent and not interested in the limitations of marriage. I enjoyed that, and hope such a woman existed in the Gilded Age.

Supporting character ex-Pinkerton investigator, Geoffrey Hunter has the nice guy role. I find it amusing how he pretends not to be romantically interested in Prudence. There is a sweet element of romance between Prudence and Geoffrey in the more quiet parts of the story, which adds interest to the story and what the ending might be.

This plot felt reminiscent of others I have read set in gilded age New York, but it stood out as it offered fascinating extra insight into the lives of the richest of Gilded Age New York. Historical facts were weaved into the expertly written story. It felt like I was a fly on the wall while learning more about diamonds. The story had an amusing, light vibe. I particularly enjoyed the parts describing the relationship between Prudence and her larger-than-life Aunt Gillian. Her character added a slightly surprising and unique element to the story as she did more than chaperone Prudence. Her title, wealth and formidable presence offered Prudence admission to establishments women would normally be unwelcome. Aunt Gillian was my favorite character and I thoroughly enjoyed when she interfered with Prudence’s questioning methods and generally meddled in her attempt at creating a professional life.

The characters felt real and relatable, particularly the hansom cab driver Danny Dennis who had insight into living conditions around Five Points. Descriptions of how life might have been in this part of the city were my least favorite of this story, but added an excellent dramatic effect.

I loved how loose ends were expertly tied together into a dramatic ending fit for a movie. This is the first I have read in this series and it worked perfectly as a standalone. The main characters and the hints to previous plots made me want to start from the beginning of the series and read up on the whole thing.
Anyone who enjoys stories set in Gilded Age and historical fiction is sure to love this one. As will fans of Rosemary Simpson. Similar authors to explore might be Kate Belli or Alyssa Maxwell.

Thank you to Kensington Publishing Corporation and NetGalley for this eARC which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Conclusion: This is the entertaining story about a diamond theft in Gilded Age New York and a series of murders which seems to connect to it, and secrecy and cover ups within a prominent banker family are revealed. The perfect companion for an afternoon in front of the fire.
Rating: 5 stars / 5
Main reasons: well crafted plot, great writing and relatable characters, fabulous ending

"Heaven and Nature Sing" by Carolyn Miller
The story is set in Wycombe, England, December 1813 and begins when gentleman’s daughter Edith Mansfield joins a Christmas gathering where she is shocked to meet estate owner George Bannerman. Edith rejected George’s proposal a year ago and neither of them has recovered. I enjoyed how the plot centers on the entertaining process when they try to get room to deal with their feelings while also take part in the Christmas cheer. My favorite part was the Christmas vibe I got from descriptions of activities reminiscent of modern day Christmas workshops and a walk in the estate woods to fetch greenery for decorations. The Christmas songs also naturally added to the Christmas cheer. Carolyn Miller writes beautifully and I loved the lighthearted and bantery dialogue between Edith and George. Edith frustrated me as I felt she lacked back bone, while George was the “nice guy” character who tried to win Edith back. The good natured, energetic and slightly meddling godmother, who hosted the gathering was my favorite character. A familiar character from The Elusive Miss Ellison (Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace Book 1) was a welcome reminder, as I read the book some time ago.

"Far as the Curse Is Found" by Amanda Barratt
The story is set in London, 1816 when war veteran Dwight Inglewood, Earl of Amberly happens upon seriously ill barmaid Jenny Grey on her way to give her baby up. He decides to offer her work at his estate. The setting of the plot seems slightly less affluent and different from others I have read and I felt it had a Dickensian vibe in the beginning as Jenny was in desperate circumstances. Later it goes on to feel reminiscent of beauty and the beast. Dwight isolates himself and neglects the estate, while Jenny prays to God for guidance how to help him. I loved how Jenny and Dwight tried to be positive forces in each other’s lives without asking for anything in return and that their feelings for each other grew from a base of friendship. I particularly enjoyed the parts describing how Jenny introduced Dwight to reading the Bible, which had a positive effect on his mental health. His attitude towards life seemed to shift and he grew conscious of people around him, including Jenny and her baby.

"The Wonders of His Love" by Erica Vetsch
The story is set in Oxfordshire, 1814 when Lady Pricilla, Cilla, Haverly meets portrait painter Scottish artist Hamish Sincclair, who has come to paint Cilla’s brother and sister-in-law as a Christmas present. This plot feels unusual as it deals with a privileged female character who is set to become a duchess when her husband dies and she becomes more of a servant to the dowager duchess. I loved that she wants to change her life, feeling uncomfortable in her present role in the family. The characters of this story were very entertaining and felt likable and realistic, save for a couple of seriously unpleasant ones. I loved that Cilla seemed to have a loving and close relationship with her brother and sister-in-law made clear to all on Christmas. That a relationship could develop between Cilla and Hamish as they were of such different classes felt an enjoyable and slightly surprising element. The story mentioned familiar characters from the Serendipity & Secret series, interesting for new readers.

Recommendations: Anyone who enjoys light hearted historical Christmas read will love this. As will fans of Carolyn Miller, Amanda Barratt and Erica Vetsch. All opinions in this review are completely my own. Similar authors to explore might be Kristi Ann Hunter or Leah Garriott.

Conclusion: Three entertaining stories about Christmas activities and celebrations beginning of the 1800s. While settings differ in grandeur, all enjoy similar celebrations and singing of Christmas carols. The writing is beautiful and the characters relatable. It adds up to very nice entertainment in front of the fire with a cup of tea.

Rating: 4 stars / 5
Main reasons: beautiful writing, entertaining characters

When Poirot is summoned to Kingfisher Hill to solve a murder, he has to promise to keep the assignment secret. While investigating, he realizes he is dealing with two complex murders and plenty of distractions.

The Killings at Kingfisher Hill is the New Hercule Poirot Mystery by Sophie Hannah, published by William Morrow. The story is set in fictional Kingfisher Hill country estate in Surrey 1922. We follow Hercule Poirot and new colleague Scotland Yard Inspector Edward Catchpool as they are summoned to Kingfisher Hill to solve the murder of Frank Devonport. They travel by luxury motor coach where a seemingly disturbed woman is adamant she will be killed if she sits in a certain seat. Poirot agrees to switch seats and takes her place next to another woman who confesses to a murder. Nothing happens to him and Poirot is both shocked and curious to see if these two occurrences on the coach are linked to the murder he is assigned to solve.

Main character Hercule Poirot seems his recognizable self. I enjoy how new details makes him even more interesting while the most important original traits are still in place; maybe with some new twists. I find it charming that he uses more French language.

Second main character and narrator is Scotland Yard Inspector Edward Catchpole. I love how he conducts independent questionings of some witnesses. Perhaps a slightly modern way of dealing with investigations,

I read this as a standalone in The New Hercule Poirot Mystery series, which worked perfectly just as all other stories I have read about Hercule Poirot. I love how the writing style is so excellently in keeping with the original Agatha Christie novels. An amusing vibe, in parts, does not get in the way of the seriousness of the murder investigation. In the centre of the story is the Devonport family who has an extreme capacity for denial. This might have been customary in the 1920s, so it adds an old fashioned feel to the story. Poirot allows Inspector Catchpool an independent, trusted position which might be a modern touch, but he still has to work with Poirot’s detailed lists. I feel this element adds information, clarifies and drives the plot forward in an amazing way.

My absolute favorite part of the story is Poirot’s interaction with amusing character Hester Semley. She is a feisty old lady who is insulted by Poirot’s tendency to interrupt her to dig out more details for the investigation.
I am not able to reveal my least favorite part of the story to avoid spoiler. Lets just say it relates to the second murder.

Fans of Agatha Christie will love this new mystery. As will readers of cozy mysteries.
Similar author to explore might be Agatha Christie.
Thank you to Kristiansand Public Library @krsbib for lending me this book. It gave me the opportunity to share my honest review and all opinions are completely my own.

Conclusion: This is the exiting new story where Hercule Poirot solves two complex murders helped by his interesting colleague, Scotland Yard Inspector, Edward Catchpool. They have to deal with a family with extraordinary capacity for denial living in an enclosed country estate. This is the perfect addition to the library of Agatha Christie books for fans old and new. I will be eagerly awaiting Sophie Hannah’s next release.

Rating: 5 stars / 5
Main reasons: interesting and complex plot, fabulous writing, great character building.