Audio: My favorite things by Lynsay Sands

Narrated by: Justine Eyre

Length: 7 hrs and 53 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release date: 10-29-19

Language: English

Publisher: HarperAudio

Historical romance

For review

All I want

This one was funny. Prudence is trying to get her father to stop gambling (not funny, that man needs help), but what is funny are her antics trying to get into his club and the chaos she creates. The owner has no idea what he is in for

And then fall in love and her dad is saved

3 French Hens

Brianne, a scullery maid, looks just like Lady Joan. So she goes along pretending to be Joan so that Joan can think of a plan to get out of a marriage. No surprise, Joanne falls for the hubbie to be and he does seem wonderful.

And then they loved happily ever after and it all worked out.

The Fairy Godmother

Odel's godmother shows up and says that she now is a fairy godmother and that she will have her married by Xmas.

A castle filled with suitors, a fairy godmother who does magic, and a stranger who shows up and seems the most sane one.

And then they lived happily ever after.

Sweet stories, and they work as they are.

Narration

I always like Justine Eyre, and I do feel that she is perfect for historical romance. I like the feeling and voices she does.

All I Want

With Lady Prudence’s father gambling away the family’s savings, all she wants for Christmas is to haul him away from London’s most notorious gaming hell. Yet the wickedly handsome proprietor, Lord Stockton, refuses to let a lady enter his establishment. Now Pru needs a Christmas miracle to make her wish come true - and to resist succumbing to Stockton’s charms.

Three French Hens

Brinna’s life as a scullery maid changes with the arrival of the castle’s newest guest, Lady Joan. Desperate to escape an arranged marriage, Joan suggests that look-alike Brinna take her place at the Christmas festivities. Suddenly, Brinna finds herself being wooed by a true gentleman, and getting the best Christmas present of all: a new life.

The Fairy Godmother

Odel is told by her godmother that she must marry by Christmas, and even gives her fairy dust to separate the mice from the men. But Odel has sworn off love...until kind and generous Michel catches her eye. He shows Odel how good it can feel to fall in love, but will it be enough to convince Odel to trust her heart?

Down among the sticks and bones by Seanan McGuire

Kindle Edition, 190 pages
Published June 13th 2017 by Tor.com
Series: Wayward Children #2
Fantasy novella
Own

Wohoo, free!! Thak you TOR.

I Liked book 1, and I liked this one. This one happens before book 1, and I had honestly forgotten what happened in that novella.

Jacqueline grows up a princess, Jillian grows up a tomboy, and they both start to chafe at the roles given by their parents. They are twins, yet so different.

Jack and Jill went up a hill, and all fell apart...

I liked where they ended up, it was dark. There are doors, and all those lost children around the world, might have fallen through those doors. And the other side is not always or ever pleasant.

Great novella! I need more

Twin sisters Jack and Jill were seventeen when they found their way home and were packed off to Eleanor West’s Home for Wayward Children.

This is the story of what happened first…

Jacqueline was her mother’s perfect daughter—polite and quiet, always dressed as a princess. If her mother was sometimes a little strict, it’s because crafting the perfect daughter takes discipline.

Jillian was her father’s perfect daughter—adventurous, thrill-seeking, and a bit of a tom-boy. He really would have preferred a son, but you work with what you've got.

They were five when they learned that grown-ups can’t be trusted.

They were twelve when they walked down the impossible staircase and discovered that the pretense of love can never be enough to prepare you a life filled with magic in a land filled with mad scientists and death and choices.

The Murders of Molly Southbourne by Tade Thompson

Kindle Edition, 128 pages

Published October 3rd 2017 by Tor.com

Series: Molly Southbourne #1

Sci fi

Own

This was weird, short and so good!

Molly is attacked, again and again, all through out her childhood. All by kids that look like her, and as she age, they age. Which of course was so very interesting and I needed to know why. Yes this novella was so strange.

All through out good, well written and intriguing. The end did loose some steam, but endings are hard, and this one was very open too.

The rule is simple: don't bleed.

For as long as Molly Southbourne can remember, she's been watching herself die. Whenever she bleeds, another molly is born, identical to her in every way and intent on her destruction.

Molly knows every way to kill herself, but she also knows that as long as she survives she'll be hunted. No matter how well she follows the rules, eventually the mollys will find her. Can Molly find a way to stop the tide of blood, or will she meet her end at the hand of a girl who looks just like her?

Snowspelled - Stephanie Burgis

Paperback, 166 pages

Published September 4th 2017 by Five Fathoms Press

Series: The Harwood Spellbook #1

Alternative history fantasy novella

Own

My Thoughts

This is a novella so the end came really fast and was wrapped up in a tidy bow just like that. But eh, it works, how she came to the answer no clue.

Alternative history were there is magic and elves in England. The elves stays in their land and there is a truce, but Cassandra does come across one and it has ramifications.

Only men have magic, but Cassandra did have magic too, but not anymore, srsly, why not? What happened. Why are we not told?

Houseparty a la Austen with a mystery to solve.

It was light, delightful and fun. I will totes read more

Blurb

In nineteenth-century Angland, magic is reserved for gentlemen while ladies attend to the more practical business of politics. But Cassandra Harwood has never followed the rules...

Four months ago, Cassandra Harwood was the first woman magician in Angland, and she was betrothed to the brilliant, intense love of her life.

Now Cassandra is trapped in a snowbound house party deep in the elven dales, surrounded by bickering gentleman magicians, manipulative lady politicians, her own interfering family members, and, worst of all, her infuriatingly stubborn ex-fiancé, who refuses to understand that she’s given him up for his own good.

But the greatest danger of all lies outside the manor in the falling snow, where a powerful and malevolent elf-lord lurks...and Cassandra lost all of her own magic four months ago.

To save herself, Cassandra will have to discover exactly what inner powers she still possesses – and risk everything to win a new kind of happiness.

Audio: Can't escape love - Alyssa Cole

Narrated by: Karen Chilton

Series: Reluctant Royals 3,5

Length: 4 hrs and 23 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release date: 03-19-19

Publisher: HarperAudio

Contemporary romance

Thank you Harper for this review copy

My Thoughts

Another novella in this series, and I have not read a single actual book! But hey it truly works! I even enjoyed this one more than the last one, as that one was a talking book, and here they did spend days together.

Reggie has created a nerd site that is gaining popularity. That site is her whole life. I liked Reggie, she was work oriented, and she loves anime and well nerdy things. All those fun things in life. And yes like the cover shows, she is in a wheelchair. ANd like that has ever stopper her

Gustave was adorable. Puzzles, design and logic are his things. And I like how he truly fell for her.

There are information about what is going on in book 3, but it works out like any other short sidestory. And what can I say, I like Reggie more.

They need each other's help, they fall in lust. It might be a novella, but it feels like an entire book.

Short and fun. I liked this

Narration

I liked her voices and she made this novella work great. You are really there with them.

Blurb

Regina Hobbs is nerdy by nature, businesswoman by nurture. She's finally taking her pop culture-centered media enterprise, Girls with Glasses, to the next level, but the stress is forcing her to face a familiar supervillain: insomnia. The only thing that helps her sleep when things get this bad is the deep, soothing voice of puzzle-obsessed live streamer Gustave Nguyen. The problem? His archive has been deleted.

Gus has been tasked with creating an escape room themed around a romance anime...except he knows nothing about romance or anime. Then mega-nerd and anime expert Reggie comes calling, and they make a trade: his voice for her knowledge. But when their online friendship has IRL chemistry, will they be able to escape love?

Audio: Once Ghosted, Twice Shy - Alyssa Cole

By: Alyssa Cole

Narrated by: Karen Chilton

Series: Reluctant Royals 2,5

Length: 3 hrs and 20 mins

Unabridged Audiobook

Release date: 01-08-19

Language: English

Publisher: HarperAudio

My Thoughts

I did feel like this one worked perfectly on its own. She works for a prince, check. I have the backstory, let it begin.

Likotsi had a brief loveaffair last she was in NYC and she has had a broken heart ever since. And by chance she meets her lover once again.

There are a few flashbacks to their whirlwind romance 8 months ago, and this novella takes place during a day when they just decide to have a talk, while walking around New York. SO I am not an expert, but I assume the things she mentions are real and it was fun seeing another side of the city.

Meet the guilty party. Fabiola, the woman who ended it back then. I kept wondering why she did that when she is obviously so keen on talking to Likotsi again. But it will all be revealed. And I got it.

It is a sweet story, they never fell out of love and they talk omg I know right, they talk to each other, they work things out. Sure, they should have done that last year but they do it now. And live happily ever after.

Conclusion:

A cute little novella. And yes of course,  I did get curious about the other books ;)

Narrator

I felt that she did a good job with both voices. But then one has an accent so that always makes it it easier to know who is who ;) But yes a really good job. She kept it light

Synopsis

While her boss the prince was busy wooing his betrothed, Likotsi had her own love affair after swiping right on a dating app. But her romance had ended in heartbreak, and now, back in NYC again, she’s determined to rediscover her joy - so, of course, she runs into the woman who broke her heart.

When Likotsi and Fabiola meet again on a stalled subway train months later, Fab asks for just one cup of tea. Likotsi, hoping to know why she was unceremoniously dumped, agrees. Tea and food soon leads to them exploring the city together, and their past, with Fab slowly revealing why she let Likotsi go, and both of them wondering if they can turn this second chance into a happily-ever-after.

Seasons of Sorcery anthology

Kindle Edition, 370 pages

Published November 13th 2018 by Brightlynx Publishing

Fantasy romance/UF

for review

My Thoughts and Synopsis

WINTER'S WEB BY JENNIFER ESTEP

An assassin at a renaissance faire. What could possibly go wrong? Everything, if you’re Gin Blanco. This Spider is trapped in someone else’s icy web—and it seems like they don’t want her to leave the faire alive . . .

The story was ok and all, but, I have only read one Gin book and that was ageeees ago. I never read more. And I did feel like fans would love this so much more. While I was all, ok she is an Assassin. I guess those are her friends and BF. So she kicks some ass and saves the day

A CURSE FOR SPRING BY AMANDA BOUCHET

A malevolent spell strangles the kingdom of Leathen in catastrophic drought. Prince Daric must break the curse before his people starve. A once-mighty goddess trapped in a human body might be the key—but saving his kingdom could mean losing all that he loves.

This was a nice fantasy romance. Leathen grows up with the former Goddess of Spring. Oh I would have liked more of that. I know that this was only a novella, but still! This would have been a great book.

The country is dying. Can Leathen and Rain save the day? There are baddies trying to stop them and well obvi these two will have feelings for each other. Took them long enough!

Nice story

THE DRAGONS OF SUMMER BY JEFFE KENNEDY

As unofficial consort to the High Queen, former mercenary Harlan Konyngrr faces a challenge worse than looming war and fearsome dragons. His long-held secrets threaten what he loves most—and he must make a choice between vows to two women.

I know I often say that everything works as a stand alone, but here, well you really should read the rest.

As for what happened...FINALLY! OMG I HAVE WAITED FOR THAT. Happiness is something all should have.

Also, when will we meet Jenna again? Is she still alive? Arghhhh

A WILDERNESS OF GLASS BY GRACE DRAVEN

The stretch of sea known as The Gray rules the lives of those in the village of Ancilar, including widow Brida Gazi. In the aftermath of an autumn storm, Brida discovers one of the sea's secrets cast onto the shore—a discovery that will change her world, mend her soul, and put her in the greatest danger she's ever faced. 

I did not expect that and I did learn something I always wondered about, well at least Draven came up for one explanation lol.

I have read a story set in this world before, or two? Interesting little town and now it is Brida's turn, a widow, to find something and oh I can not say too much! Spoilers.

Like maybe there is some romance *whistles*

Conclusion:

Two of these are stand alone and worked great as that. Another one does work on it's own, but I feel you get more for your money if you know the series. And the final one really should be read in its series. How else can you love Harlan and Essla!

Insurgency - Michelle Diener

The tiny moon of Cepi is on a countdown to destruction, and while Nyha Bartali has been persuaded to take her four wards for a final look at the archaeological wonder, now she's eager to leave. The only problem is, someone has other plans--plans to exploit Nyha and her girls' status as the betrayed orphans of the Verdant String in order to give them time to steal Cepi's secrets.

Nyha and her wards' value as survivors of the destruction of Halatia means it would be political suicide for any leader of the Verdant String to endanger them again--something the hostage-takers know very well. What the hostage-takers don't know is that Nyha and her girls have more help than they realize.

Mak Carep knows his team's presence on Cepi is the last flex of Arkhor's muscle before the moon is blown to bits. Arkhor has interfered on Cepi since it discovered the ruins four hundred years ago, but sometimes, interference can have unexpected consequences. When Nyha and her girls are taken hostage, Mak and the rest of his special forces team are the only ones who have any hope of rescuing them, and they're ready and willing to do what Arkhor does best . . . Interfere.

Insurgency (Insurgency is a 45,000 word short novel set in the Verdant String series)

The Parnian city of Var is under siege. Buildings are being targeted by insurgents whose only aim seems to be destruction. Nick Bartega is part of the Protection Unit team investigating the explosions, but with no discernible pattern, and no one taking responsibility, he and his colleagues have hit a blank wall.

That is until his neighbor, Tila, is caught up in the first real mistake the insurgents have made. Cornered, forced to take Tila's whole office hostage, the insurgents are surrounded and out of options, until they use Tila as their shield.

Tila sees herself as Parnian first, Halatian second, but her dark blue hair, and the strong emotions her very existence provokes in others means the insurgents see her as the perfect hostage. No one on Par wants to give the order that might catch her in the crossfire. They'd rather let the insurgents get away.

But Nick, and his commander, Drake, see the first glimpse of a pattern in the insurgents behavior. Not that long ago, Halatians were used as hostages in another incident on the tiny moon of Cepi, and the parallels are hard to ignore. So is this attack on Var an isolated incident, or is there a bigger conspiracy at play?

Whatever the truth, Nick isn't prepared to leave Tila in the insurgents hands. And he's prepared to break any rule, and disregard any order to do it. 

Kindle Edition, 264 pages
Published January 14th 2018 by Eclipse
Sci.fi, romance
Review

My thoughts:
This is just a review of Insurgency, Interference was not for me at this time. I could not get into it

Bad guys are blowing things up and taking hostages. And honestly when I learned why, well, yes I understood, even if it was the wrong way doing it.

Tila is from a planet that is no more (now that seems like quite the story, and a sad one.) Also the whole origin of everyone, I totally want that too.

But, I was talking about Tila...ok blue hair, Halatian of birth, now like everyone else. Presently in danger.

Nick, "cop", then one who will deal with the danger she is in

Neighbors, falling in love. The end. Interesting beginning

Since Last Christmas - Jeffe Kennedy

This Christmas, Amy is getting what she wants. Her career in fashion design is taking off. Her boyfriend Brad is the dictionary definition of a catch. Soon he’ll buy the massive diamond that makes it official: she’s nobody’s hard luck case anymore.

Her old friend Jon ought to understand. A decade ago he was the other scholarship kid with a crap family. He got her quirks, her insecurities, her rules, her passions. Now he swears she’s not really happy, and she’s forgotten something that proves it.

When Amy throws away everything she’s worked for with one impulsive, impossible word, she’s horrified she’s proved Jon right...and strangely, secretly excited. That he knows more than the past she wants to forget — he knows what heats her up, what makes her heart race.

But remembering what she’s forgotten since last Christmas might mean breaking all the rules… 

ebook, 188
Published December 21st 2017 by Jeffe Kennedy
Missed Connections # 3
Contemporary romance
For review

My thoughts:

Amy thinks she has it all. Oh you silly girl. He might know how to dress and act. He might be perfect i every way, but not in the way that matters.

Brad is just one of those flashy selfie people. And Amy wants to marry him. Brad is an idiot.

Then there is Jon. Her old best friend who she meets again. Who can not dress. Who can not act. But who knew her soul.

Well obvi these two will find their way to each other. I mean duh. And the series title says it all. I did think it happened to fast. Which is strange cos the two previous books were the same, and here they had actually known each other for years. Funny how that happens. But love conquers all.

Sweet and steamy at times.

Anthology review: Amid the Winter Snow

THE DARKEST MIDNIGHT, by Grace Draven

The mark Jahna Ulfrida was born with has made her a target of the cruel and idle all her life. During the long, crowded festivities of Deyalda, there’s nowhere to escape. Until a handsome stranger promises to teach her to save herself…

THE CHOSEN, by Thea Harrison

In her visions, Lily sees two men fighting for her tiny country’s allegiance: the wolf and the tiger, each deadly, each cunning. One will bring Ys chaos and death, one a gentler path—but she’s destined to love whichever she chooses. The midwinter Masque is upon them, and the wolf is at her door…

THE STORM, by Elizabeth Hunter

When her soul mate died in a massacre of the half-angelic Irin people, Renata thought she’d never feel happiness again. She’s retreated to the snowy Dolomites to remember her hurts—until determined, irrepressible Maxim arrives to insist on joy, too. And before she can throw him out, they discover a secret the Irin have to know…

THE SNOWS OF WINDROVEN, by Jeffe Kennedy

As a blizzard threatens their mountain keep, the new Queen Amelia of the Twelve Kingdoms and her unofficial consort Ash face their own storm. Ash knows a scarred, jumpy ex-convict isn’t the companion his queen needs. But when a surprise attack confines them together in their isolated sanctuary, the feast of midwinter might tempt even Ash into childlike hope… 

ebook, 431
Expected publication: December 12th 2017 by Brightlynx Publishing
Fantasy romance
For review

My thoughts:

The Darkest Midnight by Grace Draven

Oh it took me a while to realise where the story took place. It has been too long since I read that awesome book of hers! And this takes place in the same world, but another country.

I like Jahna, I felt sorry for her too, but she was great and knew what she wanted. To be a chronicler, you go girl.

And yes it is a romance, even if there is not a lot of romance. Just a dance between two people, but there will be  a happy ending even if I could not see it. But then, oh perfect for sure.

The Chosen by Thea Harrison

I never did see that other suitor, disappointed. But yes Lila meets the Wolf, they flirt. They will try to save her kingdom and live happily ever after. Nice story, nice setting and i would like more from this world.

Though her country sounds weak, sorry but true. No wonder someone wants to conquer it.

The storm by Elizabeth Hunter

Man meets woman, fall in love, and the story takes forever to end. 15 years! Damn he never gave up. I liked the story and the world, but at the same time it felt a bit too long. Maybe cos I had to charge the battery and it was uncomfortable, lol.

Jeffe Kennedy

I had not realise how much tension there was still between Ami and Ash. I mean I knew they were not married, I knew why, but poor Ash. I get it, half blood, ex convicts do not marry queens. And that is why this story was so needed, these two needed a conclusion. So what we have are two people, tired, and just wanting to be with each other but arguing instead. All while midwinter draws close. Oh and the kids are hilarious!

Conclusion:

I liked the xmas feel, even though there is no xmas since 3 of 4 takes place in fantasy world. But hey people celebrated before xmas and that is what they do here. Midwinter celebrations. I liked it.

Cover

Nice

Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection - Brandon Sanderson

An all-new 40,000-word Stormlight Archive novella, “Edgedancer,” will be the crown jewel of Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection, the first book of short fiction by #1 New York Times bestselling author Brandon Sanderson. A must read for fans of the series.

These wonderful works, originally published on Tor.com and elsewhere individually, convey the expanse of the Cosmere and tell exciting tales of adventure Sanderson fans have come to expect, including the Hugo Award-winning novella, “The Emperor’s Soul” and an excerpt from the graphic novel “White Sand.”

Finally, this collection includes essays and illustrations for the various planetary systems in which the stories are set. 

Hardcover, 672 pages

Published November 10th 2016 by Gollancz

Stormlight Archive #2.5, The Cosmere

Fantasy

Own

My thoughts:

“The Emperor’s Soul” (Elantris)

I did not read it as I have read it before. Check my thoughts there.

“The Hope of Elantris” (Elantris)

I guess ok. Nothing special. A short story. I did feel like I should have read Elantris before and no years before.

“The Eleventh Metal” (Mistborn)

Eh, nothing special here either. Kelsier training...yup

“Allomancer Jak and the Pits of Eltania, Episodes 28 through 30” (Mistborn)

I do not seem to be a fan of his short stories. They just feel ok all of them. Though this one would have worked as a graphic novel.

"A secret history" Mistborn

A long one, and I thought it would be meh, but it seems shorts one are eh, but long ones are better. Kelsier's story behind the scenes.

“White Sand” (excerpt; Taldain)

Ohhh a graphic novel. Very cool.

“Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell” (Threnody)

I have read this one before. Check it there.

“Sixth of Dusk” (First of the Sun)

This was an interesting world, I would like to see more from it.

Edgedancer

I liked this story and I reeeeeally makes me want to read Oathbringer

Conclusion:

As they got longer they got better. Sanderson needs to write long ones cos he needs his world. He excels there.

Pros and Cons and TMST: Long running series

Tell Me Something Tuesday is a weekly discussion post on Rainy Day Ramblings where Rainy discuss a wide range of topics from books to blogging. Weigh in and join the conversation by adding your thoughts in the comments. If you want to do your own post, grab the question and answer it on your blog.

This week's conversation starter:

August 29th: What are some long running series that you would like to try?

Honestly, they scare me! When I see those 16 series long books all I do is sigh. It's one thing jumping in when there are 3 books out but when there are that many, well I  fear they will go bad. Too many books, too little plot left. I just stay away from them. It would take a lot for me to try a series that has been going on for that long!

I did try that JD Robb series, ugh, book 1 sucked so I never gave it another go. It's also easier to just leave them when they are that long.

So I can not really say that there are any long running series I want to try.

Though when it comes to historical romance I am more willing to try them since there I just tend to jump in ;)

As a living descendant of Artemis the Huntress, private investigator Nikki Glass knows how to track someone down—but this time, her latest case leads to unexpected revelations of lies and betrayal...

My thoughts:
I did not realise my omnibus had a novella in it too. Cool.

In this one Nikki is on her own since she wants to avoid Anderson after what happened in book 2. So she takes a case where a woman needs to find this man. And it gets complicated.

I really can not say a lot. She solves the case. There is some danger.

A good novella.

ebook, 82 pages
Published February 25th 2013 by Pocket Star
Nikki Glass #2.5
Urban fantasy
Own

Every Heart a doorway and TMST: Do you find it is easier to read and review books that you have picked up on your own?

Eleanor West’s Home for Wayward Children

No Solicitations

No Visitors

No Guests

Children have always disappeared under the right conditions; slipping through the shadows under a bed or at the back of a wardrobe, tumbling down rabbit holes and into old wells, and emerging somewhere... else.

But magical lands have little need for used-up miracle children.

Nancy tumbled once, but now she’s back. The things she’s experienced... they change a person. The children under Miss West’s care understand all too well. And each of them is seeking a way back to their own fantasy world.

But Nancy’s arrival marks a change at the Home. There’s a darkness just around each corner, and when tragedy strikes, it’s up to Nancy and her new-found schoolmates to get to the heart of the matter.

No matter the cost. 

My thoughts:

When I saw this one was free from TOR I went all omg, now now now! I do like MacGuire's books but I had not read this one. It was a novella. I had doubts. But fear not, she is a wonderful writer after all and this was just up my alley.

Nancy comes to a home for well, troubled teens. Her parent's put her there to get better, but the home is not really for that. The women helping them knows very well they are not crazy. They have all been to different worlds. Now they need to learn with the loss of those worlds and being in the real world.

Now this was fascinating. All these worlds, so many worlds! All these kids stumbling in and then out of them. The loss they need to deal with then.

As for the School. Well sinister things are afoot. Nancy are thrown in the middle of things and a good story unfolds.

A really good novella.

Cover
nice

Kindle Edition, 176 pages
Published April 5th 2016 by Tor.com
Wayward Children #1
Paranormal
Novella

Tell Me Something Tuesday is a weekly discussion post on Rainy Day Ramblings where Rainy discuss a wide range of topics from books to blogging. Weigh in and join the conversation by adding your thoughts in the comments. If you want to do your own post, grab the question and answer it on your blog.

This week's conversation starter: 

July 18th: Do you find it is easier to read and review books that you have picked up on your own? 

Honestly, sometimes it is the exact opposite. Because books I have bought, received or picked up at the library, well I have a low tolerance with those at times. I find it easy to dnf them. To just let them go. While when it comes to review books I try harder to read them.

Books I have picked up on my own, right, so higher tolerance for dnf.

When it comes to books I buy I spend a lot of time investigating them so to say. When it comes to library books I just pick books and yes that might be why I dnf a lot. They are not always for me.

Review books comes first, so I would not say I have it easier to read my own books. They come second, that is if it is not books I really really want. And those I usually get for xmas or my bday. Yes I do not buy books whenever. I  wait for xmas and my bday ;)

When it comes to reviews, well I review everything that I read. So it does not matter what it is.

I guess my question is no? Since everything is equally easy to read and review.

Luci on April 30th. He was NOT amused

The Highland bride's choice - Amanda Forester

In this first installment, the clan has gathered for May Day festivities, and Laird Campbell is trying to arrange marriages for his younger sisters. Practical Elyne Campbell is pleased to marry whomever her brother has chosen for her. Unfortunately, she is more attracted to Tavish Grant, the cousin of her intended, than the prospective groom himself. When she is caught outside the castle gates during a siege and is forced to spend time hiding with Grant, the attraction grows beyond all hope of practicality. 

My thoughts:

Ok so the only reason why I read 2 novellas was cos I had only read 1 book! 1 book and it was already Sunday. One big in 6 days made me shaky, lol.

This one was a fast one where the brother sends for bridegrooms and Elyne is all, fine, I can marry, who needs love anyway. Haha, oh you girl, yes she meets her intended and he is so meh, but dang his cousin is fine.

The love happens fast, they do not have many days on them to fall in love so it's fast and sudden. And then they live happily ever after.

Short and nice

cover
Always stabbing themselves with those swords

Kindle Edition, 89 pages
Published October 1st 2013 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
Campbell Sisters #1
Historical romance
Own

My Scandalous Duke - Theresa Romain

Lady Eleanor Palmer, a practical young widow, wants a family of her own. Her first marriage was an adventurous disaster, so this time, nothing but the most proper sort of man will do. Absolutely not who she’s looking for? The impulsive, roguish Duke of Hampshire…even though she has secretly loved him as long as she can remember.

Nicholas Langford, the Duke of Hampshire, has always relied on Eleanor’s humor and good sense. Who else would guide him through a scandal with laughter and grace? He would do anything to ensure his old friend’s happiness—even help Eleanor find a suitable new husband.

As Eleanor makes plans for a new life without him at its center, Nicholas realizes the depth of his own feelings. But he can offer Eleanor nothing she thinks she wants. How can he convince her he is everything she truly desires? 

My thoughts:

This was a nice, short novella.

We have a widow who wants to marry again, just not some proper boring guy.

Then we have a Duke, who should marry, but those debutantes are pretty boring.

These two are friends and hit the marriage mart together.

Sparks start to fly and they live happily ever after.

I enjoyed it.

ebook, 101 pages
Published November 15th 2016
Historical romance
Own

The language of dying - Sarah Pinborough

A woman sits beside her father's bedside as the night ticks away the final hours of his life. As she watches over her father, she relives the past week and the events that brought the family together . . . and she recalls all the weeks before that served to pull it apart.

There has never been anything normal about the lives raised in this house. It seems to her that sometimes her family is so colourful that the brightness hurts, and as they all join together in this time of impending loss she examines how they came to be the way they are and how it came to just be her, the drifter, that her father came home to die with.

But, the middle of five children, the woman has her own secrets . . . particularly the draw that pulled her back to the house when her own life looked set to crumble. And sitting through her lonely vigil, she remembers the thing she saw out in the fields all those years ago . . . the thing that they found her screaming for outside in the mud. As she peers through the familiar glass, she can't help but hope and wonder if it will come again.

Because it's one of those night, isn't it dad? A special terrible night. A full night. And that's always when it comes. If it comes at all. 

My thoughts:

"There is a language to dying. It creeps like a shadow alongside the passing years and the taste of it hides in the corners of our mouths. It finds us whether we are sick or healthy."

This is the story of a woman who sits by her father bedside. Her siblings are sent for and they come. We learn their history, their history with their father. And later more about the narrator's life.

It's not a long book, it's a novella really. It is beautifully written. It never gets sad, it is just the way of things.

But there is also something in the shadows, something she once saw. The one thing that gives this the fantasy vibe, but only when she thinks of that. Never anywhere else. It was something strange....

It was a good, short book, that you can read in one sitting.

Paperback, 176 pages
Published December 1st 2016 by Jo Fletcher Books (first published 2009)
Fiction
In exchange for a review

The Heiress and the Hothead - Sabrina Jeffries

This upcoming release is a novella that was previously published in 2015 in the Christmas-themed anthology, What Happens Under the Mistletoe.

Stunned by the heat of an unexpected kiss on a cold winter’s eve, two strangers from vastly different worlds turn hotheaded principles into burning passion in Sabrina Jeffries’s delightful yuletide story, The Heiress and the Hothead.

My thoughts:
I requested this one from NG and did not realise I had read it in an anthology, So here is that review

Lord Stephen writes angry news articles about mills. Amanda owns mills. The whole mill thing was not exactly romantic (only North and South can do that.) But they will dance around each other and fall in love.

But that smexy scene, seriously. No, not then and there. Ugh. It was weird.

Conclusion:
A nice holiday novella.

Cover
nice

ebook, 90 pages
Expected publication: November 28th 2016 by Pocket Star
Sinful Suitors #1.5
Historical romance
NG

Sweetest Regret - Meredith Duran

This upcoming release is a novella that was previously published in 2015 in the Christmas-themed anthology, What Happens Under the Mistletoe.

In "Sweetest regret", will the festive spirit of the season sweep Meredith Duran’s feisty heroine beneath the mistletoe—and back into the arms of the dashing rogue whose carelessness soiled her reputation and sent her into exile in London?

My thoughts:
I actually read this one last year, and now when I started it I was all why does this sound so familliar? Oh, I have read it before ;)

Georgie is hosting a xmas party, and her father is nowhere to be found. She has some issues.

Lucas is sent to help her. But uh uh...they were in love once.

I liked this one. A couple that used to be in love meet again. They are angry. Something went wrong. Everything happens during a house party.  A nice holiday feeling too. It was a novella, I can't say much.

Conclusion:
Cute and nice.

Cover
Nice

ebook, 110 pages
Expected publication: November 28th 2016 by Pocket Star
Historical romance
NG

A kiss for luck - Grace Burrowes

Game designer Sadie Delacourt has moved to the peaceful, bucolic town of Damson Valley for a fresh start where she can keep an eye on a recently divorced sister and her small nephew. Sadie plans to focus on her business and her family, until handsome neighbor Gideon Granville turns his focus on Sadie. When Sadie learns where Gideon has been aiming his snooping skills, she’s ready to delete him from her plans entirely—though Gideon is all that stands between her and the trouble she thought she’d left behind her. 

My thoughts:

I have no idea what I just read, it was confusing at times, and romance should not feel confusing. I was all what? Also it was way too rushed. Sure some books can be novellas and short stories, but this was a Book crammed into a novella, and it did not work.'

It was about Sadie who was forgettable.

Gideon who, oh sometimes the book confused me who was talking, but srsl Gideon, check what you are doing.

They liked brownies, did it, lived happily ever after and I was all, what happened?

It did not work. Total failure

Kindle Edition, 148 pages
Published December 2nd 2014 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
Sweetest Kisses 0.6
Contemporary romance
Own

Duet: Emma Goldrick

Marcie's emotions needed a good rest. After the traumatic experience of a hijacking incident, the Adirondack cabin she'd inherited from her uncle beckoned invitingly. 

Certainly, Marcie never suspected that the peaceful mountaintop was the focus of an old family feud. That was the last thing she wanted to be involved in! 

But Marcie soon made two further discoveries. John Harley, her friendly neighbor, was the grandson of the very man who'd started the petty squabble. And Marcie's heart was already too involved to retreat! 

My thoughts:

She weighed a bit too much, was not really pretty, but he likes the light in her soul. ...did you just call her fat and ugly? Ok...but sure light in her soul, you are still thinking she was ugly though.

Their families are enemies. He has a bitchy girlfriend, I mean srsly deranged bitchy.

And then they get married. Oh and she has flashbacks from a hijacking. Just tossed in there at random at times.

Paperback, Harlequin Romance #2858, 187 pages
Published September 1987 by Harlequin
Own
Contemporary romance

She didn't intend to deceive him. — When Philomena Peabody met her boss's son, he was suffering temporary snow blindness. 'You sound like somebody's mother,' Penn Wilderman said, convinced by her no-nonsense attitude that she was 'a sweet little old lady.' — Even after she'd moved into his luxurious mansion to help look after his son, Phil couldn't disillusion Penn about her age.

To help win a custody battle for his teenage son, Phil agreed to marry Penn. But she dreaded facing him once the bandages were off, and he could see his attractive twenty-seven-year-old wife...

My thoughts:

Omg so silly, it was good for the cheesiness of it, but seriously!

He gets a housekeeper, babysitter whatevs, he thinks she is 50. It was all so weird, and then ok I can say it cos spoilers but it was effed up.

These oldies are freaky!!!
Oh and she screamed rape at one time, and not for rape. That is so not cool.

Paperback, Harlequin Presents #1035, 187 pages
Published November 1987 by Harlequin Books
Own

I read a Duet book, 2 in 1