August 22, 2013 by Tina Williams

Heart of the Diamond, by Carrie Brock

A Revenge so Sweet! An Entertaining Regency Romance

Heart of the Diamond is a sweet Regency Romance, with a yummy alpha hero and an unorthodox heroine who meet each other in bizarre circumstances engineered purely for revenge, but which lead to an endearing and intriguing fast paced romance.

In Carrie Brock’s romantic tale the heroine, Lady Nicole Langley, has managed to avoid matrimony – a state she has no desire to enter into. However, she finds that her father and stepmother have arranged a match with a man very much her senior. In a desperate attempt to seek help, she sets out in the middle of the night to meet her childhood sweetheart and neighbour, Teddy Bartholomew, who has sent her a note to say that he has returned home from America. However, instead she finds that she has been tricked and compromised by Blake Dylan, the new owner of Teddy’s home, Rosewood Manor. Nicole’s father, the Duke of Billington, is reluctantly compelled to accept Blake’s offer of marriage for his daughter to safeguard her honour.

Blake Dylan, who is now the Duke of Diamond, on his father’s death, has recently returned from America where he spent the last six years after being banished there. He is seeking revenge on those responsible for his banishment, namely the Duke of Billington and Teddy Bartholemew. He has already sabotaged the Duke’s business interests and he has won Teddy’s ancestral home from him in a card game. His final act of revenge will be to trick Billington’s daughter into marriage, which will have the added benefit of depriving Teddy of the woman he intends to make his own.

Nicole is a first unaware of the hatred that exists between her father and Teddy and Blake. Whilst she is furious at the situation, she begins to find herself becoming attracted to Blake, for despite his cool and calculating exterior, he can at times be quite charming. She suspects that he has been badly let down in the past and wants to be the woman that heals him. However, once Nicole discovers Blake’s role in her father’s financial ruin, Nicole begins to question Blake’s integrity and fears for her future with such a cold hearted vindictive man, who professes to shun love. When her childhood love Teddy returns from America more truths emerge and Nicole is forced to make choices relating to her future happiness. She fears that Blake will not be appeased until he manages to completely destroy her father, which she cannot let happen. Already enamoured with Blake Nicole strives to melt his icy heart.

Nicole is not your typical simpering Regency miss. Instead she is unorthodox, outspoken and headstrong. Having witnessed her own mother’s unhappiness before her death and her father’s remarriage to his former mistress, she is wary of entering a loveless marriage. She is devoted to her family, although her relationship with her stepmother is strained. Blake is taken aback be Nicole’s natural beauty and lack of artifice. He does not hold Nicole responsible for his misfortune and only intends to use her as an instrument for his revenge, not wishing to inflict any undue hardship on her. He does not believe in love but he begins to find Nikki’s behaviour more and more endearing as he gets to know her. She begins to thaw his icy heart and he is forced to examine his feelings when Teddy reappears and competes for her attention despite the couple’s coming nuptials.

Despite Blake’s Machiavellian actions in tricking Nikki into marriage for revenge, I did find him a sympathetic character. From their first scene together it was evident that there was a great deal of sexual tension between them. However, there are many twists and turns in the plot along the way which make for an entertaining tale. Some of the scenes, particularly those which portray Blake and Teddy vying for Nicole’s attention are highly amusing! We are introduced to a wider cast of characters as the plot progresses and these are well drawn and help the plot progress to its conclusion.

I found Heart of the Diamond to be a sweet Regency Romance with engaging characters and an intriguing plot. I recommend this novel to lovers of Regency Romance with an unorthodox, likeable heroine, a yummy alpha hero, who attempts to be a blackguard to exact his revenge, but really is quite honourable and a cast of entertaining characters.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was made available to me by the publisher Blue Star Books for the purpose of providing a fair and honest review.

http://www.book-hub.com/bluestarbooks.html

Cover design by Bri Bruce

August 3, 2013 by Tina Williams

The Proposal, The Survivors’ Club #1, by Mary Balogh

I am an avid reader of historical romances encompassing all time periods. Regency romances feature high on my reading list as there are a huge number of authors who choose to set their novels at this time, following in the footsteps of the great Jane Austin and more recently Georgette Heyer, whose novels I devoured as a teenager.

Mary Balogh is one author I go to when I want to be guaranteed a great romantic read, which conjures up the Regency period perfectly and has engaging characters that often differ from the usual lord or lady. Her Huxtable Quintet, and her Bedwyn, Simply and Mistress series being amongst my favourites. The Proposal, the first book in her new series, The Survivors’ Club, deals with the romantic entanglements of seven individuals who have been injured in or by the horrors of the Napoleonic wars. Five of them are officers who have been wounded, one is a woman, who witnessed her husband, a Surveillance Officer, tortured and finally shot by the enemy and the other the Duke of Stanbrook. The Duke, who lost his son in the war and his grieving wife to suicide soon afterwards, opened up his home Penderris Hall to aid their convalescence and recovery and return to civilian life. They formed a strong bond during their time at Penderris and meet at there for a few weeks each year to enjoy each others’ company and offer mutual support, each of them having sustained physical and mental wounds of varying natures. I love reading about heroes and heroines who have had a difficult past, where they come together to find happiness and I have been looking forward to this series for a while.

In The Proposal the hero is Hugo Emes, Lord Trentham, a title he was awarded due to his bravery in the Peninsular. Hugo does not bear any physical scars from the war. Instead he harbours the mental scars of survivor’s guilt at having led so many men to their deaths for the greater good. After his initial convalescence at Penderris, Hugo has found solace in retiring to the country and working the land for a year or so. However, he now decides that he must honour his deceased father’s wishes and marry and produce an heir to inherit the family business. What he wants is a solid middle class woman who is best placed to understand and support him. Shortly after arriving at Penderris, Hugo decides to take a walk on the adjacent beach, joking with his friends that he will perhaps find a bride there. He comes across a woman with a badly sprained ankle.

Lady Gwendoline Muir has survived a number of tragedies in her life. Her husband died in a sudden accident and she has a limp, the result of a fall from a horse. Gwen and Hugo, from different worlds, clash immediately – she is a respected member of the aristocracy and the ton and he is an outspoken middle class ex-army officer who does not mince his words. However, as Gwen is compelled to remain at Penderris to recuperate, a strong physical attraction develops between them, which they cannot resist. They also begin to find out the truth about each other and form a deep attachment. However, is it love or lust? What will happen when Gwen returns to her aristocratic roots? Will she be happy to reprise her role as sister and aunt after tasting such passion? Also will Hugo be able to take up the reins of his family business and find a suitable middle class wife as he wishes? Is there a future for a couple with lives so disparate and with prejudices on either side?

What follows is a touching romantic tale examining if two people from two different classes can find some middle ground on which to live the rest of their lives together. There is also the added question of whether Gwen feels that she can afford to love a man as mentally scarred as Hugo after experiences she had in her first marriage. I found that the novel was beautifully written and sensitively examined the unseen wounds which individuals can bear after traumatic experiences in their lives.

I loved the characters of both Hugh and Gwen. Hugh is a taciturn and outspoken member of the middle class, uncomfortable around the aristocracy, many of whom resented his rise up through the ranks in his army days. When it comes to broaching the physical attraction that exists between him and Gwen he is outspoken, often shocking Gwen with his words. I also sympathised with him as he had clearly suffered from Post Traumatic Stress, as well as survivor’s guilt. Gwen never thought that she could find love again and is taken completely by surprise at the attraction she feels for Hugo. I love how despite their initial misgivings about a permanent relationship they came together.

I recommend this novel to readers of romance who are seeking a truly romantic and heart warming read. I am very much looking forward to the next in the series, The Arrangement, which tells the tale of another member of The Survivors’ Club, Viscount Darleigh, who we met in this book.

Reviewed by Tina 🙂

Mary Balogh’s website

Publisher Piatkus’website

June 3, 2013 by Tina Williams

Borderland Beauty (The Borderlands Legacy #2), by Samantha Holt

Besotted Lord versus a Lady Scorned – Sensual Medieval Romance

After meeting Lord Dominic in Borderland Bride, the previous book in the series, I have been impatient to meet the woman who will tame him. Samantha Holt has done an excellent job in Borderland Beauty, which contains plenty of passion, humour and danger. Dominic battles to win the heart of the lady he becomes enamoured with, a lady who has every reason to despise his silver tongue and his reputation. The path to their HEA is further complicated by subterfuge, misunderstandings and the danger posed by the borderland reivers who plague Northumbria.

Dominic, who needs a wife to help him manage his keep and warm his bed, is surprised to learn of a marriage contract, pledging him to marry the daughter of a neighbour, Lord Montgomery. Dominic does not recall having met his daughter, Lucy, and invites the family to spend Christmas at Thornewall to see if they suit. However, Lord Montgomery, forbids Dominic to mention the contract, fearing Lucy’s reaction. As soon as Dominic sees Lucy he is smitten by her curvaceous beauty, strong personality and wit and intends to quickly convince her to become his wife.

Unaware of the contract Lucy reluctantly agrees to attend the festivities and she is mortified when Dominic takes an interest in her. Lucy has no wish to marry, especially a man such as Dominic, who she views as a degenerate womaniser. Lucy does not consider herself attractive to men due in part to unkind comments about her appearance, made in the past by none other than Dominic, when she was but a teenager and he a swaggering youth, comments he has long since forgotten. Lucy believes that Dominic views her simply as a short term diversion and refuses to respond to his charms despite being blindsided by a strong attraction to him. But how long can she keep up this resistance and what if she finds out about the contract?

Dominic is rendered tongue tied or says the most inappropriate things to Lucy– his usual charm deserting him. This I loved as it makes for some very amusing exchanges! There are many fun and sensual scenes which push the bounds of propriety as the two embark on a merry dance around each other. Yet will Lucy’s constant rebuttals be too much for even a man as determined as Dominic? Their love and trust will be truly tested by each other and meanwhile the borderland reivers are becoming increasingly violent and daring, posing a threat to all.

I enjoyed the couple’s romance. This handsome man who can usually effortlessly bend others, especially women, to his will is brought to his knees by a forthright and headstrong young woman whom he cannot woo with passion and sweet words alone, torture indeed! I loved the banter between the couple as their courtship progresses and how Lucy comes to realise that there is a lot more depth to the Lord of Thornewall than she originally thinks.

I welcomed the Yuletide setting of this novel and the descriptions of the customs and festivities in and around the keep, the author’s knowledge of the period adding depth to the tale. I also enjoyed the secondary characters in the novel, including Lucy’s parents, members of Dominic’s household and Dominic’s half-brother Jake and his wife Isabel, the hero and heroine of the previous novel, who also make a brief, but welcome, appearance.

Samantha Holt’s Borderlands Legacy series continues to deliver sensual and loving romances whilst giving readers an insight into life in the borderlands. I recommend it to readers who like to read medieval romances with alpha heroes and heroines who often test their love and devotion, making for some entertaining tales.

A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Find Borderland Beauty at Jupiter Gardens Press

Cover art by Valerie Tibbs

Samantha Holt’s website

Please click on the links for A Reader’s Review Blog’s reviews of other Samantha Holt’s medieval romance novels:

The Angel’s Assassin

Borderland Bride (book 1 in the Borderlands Legacy)

April 30, 2013 by Tina Williams

Racing with the Wind and Against the Wind, by Regan Walker, Agents of the Crown Trilogy, # 1and # 2

Passionate and Intriguing Regency Romances

In Regan Walker’s Agents of the Crown series we experience the ballrooms and great houses of Regency England and the danger and excitement of a post Napoleonic Paris, during the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy. We also bear witness to the introduction of repressive laws in England, as the government believe that revolution will spread amongst a populace who are unhappy with poor harvests and the loss of their livelihood. Against this backdrop Regan Walker brings us tales of passion , danger and intrigue, involving agents working for the Prince Regent and the women who fall for them. I was lucky enough to be given the first two books in the trilogy, by the author, for an honest and fair review.

Racing with the Wind, (Agents of the Crown Trilogy # 1), by Regan Walker (scroll down for the review of Against the Wind)

The Hellion and the Spy

Racing with the Wind is the first book in Regan Walker’s Agents of the Crown Trilogy. It is a passionate romance between an unconventional debutante, Mary Campbell and the dashing Hugh Redgrave, the Marquess of Ormand. It is set in 1816, in the turbulent aftermath of the defeat and imprisonment of Napoleon and the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy.

Hugh is an agent for the British crown and as the legendary spy, the Nighthawk, obtained intelligence, securing Napoleon’s defeat. He is in retreat from this role and is working closely with Lord Baynes, a top diplomat, and fellow agents to ensure that peace and prosperity are restored to France under King Louis. As heir to a dukedom, Hugh is under pressure to marry, a pressure he has no wish to succumb to, preferring freedom and adventure.

On to this stage steps Mary Campbell, a young debutante. Mary shuns convention being regarded as a hellion. She is educated, schooled in European affairs and politics and an excellent horsewoman. She has been indulged by her uncle, Lord Baynes and her mother, widowed since the untimely death of the Earl. She craves adventure more that the ballroom and wishes to avoid marriage, which she feels will curtail her freedom and prevent her from riding her stallion Midnight, clad in men’s breeches.

Once Mary and Hugh meet, there is an undeniable attraction. However, Hugh resolves to keep his distance, being wary of her wilful nature and favouring discrete affairs with older, more experienced women. Similarly Mary decides to avoid Hugh, viewing him as an arrogant rake. Yet circumstances throw them together in London and later Paris, as Mary persuades her uncle, Lord Baynes, that she will be a useful pair of eyes and ears for him whilst he carries out his diplomatic work. Mary has no idea that Hugh and the Nighthawk, whom she admires, are one and the same and she is unaware of Hugh’s activities as a spy for the Prince Regent.

Once in France, the tension in the plot increases dramatically and passion ignites. A double agent is on the loose and Mary endangers herself as she uncovers suspicious activities. Hugh is sworn to protect her and the exciting and suspenseful plot, in which Mary could pay the ultimate price, involves Bonapartists, royalists, English agents and the Prussians.

Hugh is a great hero, handsome and honourable, willing to go to great lengths to protect Mary, even from his own desire, which he reigns in on numerous occasions. He finds it hard to admit his love, being scarred by an event in his past, which has lead him to take great risks as an agent for the crown. He is extremely jealous of Mary’s admirers and I found his reactions amusing and endearing. Despite his initial resolve he is drawn to Mary, admiring her beauty, intelligence and bravery. He soon realises that she is his perfect match.

Mary cannot prevent her attraction to Hugh, even though initially she regards him as a dissolute rake. She soon realises that there is more to him than meets the eye and falls under his spell. However, she does not want to be just a pleasant liaison and she will be no man’s mistress. The romance is sweet. When lovemaking scenes do occur, it is Hugh’s sense of honour that prevails. However, Hugh fires Mary’s blood and when presented with the opportunity to get to know Hugh more intimately, Mary eventually decides to seize it, in some memorable scenes!

This book is different to many Regency romances I have read, the foray onto France adding a definite frisson of danger, romance and excitement. The author has clearly done a lot of research into the politics, fashions and places where she sets her scenes. I enjoyed the secondary characters, which included some historical figures. We are also introduced to Martin Powell, Hugh’s fellow agent, the lead in book 2 in the series, Against the Wind.

I recommend this book to all lovers of historical romance, particularly those who like an unconventional heroine and a strong and honourable hero, whose passion ignites in a tale full of intrigue an adventure.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

This book was given to me by the author for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

Regan Walker’s website

Publisher Boroughs Publishing Group

Digital edition created by Maureen Cutajar www.gopublished.com

Against the Wind (Agents of the Crown Trilogy # 2), by Regan Walker

Lusty and Loving Intrigue

Against the Wind, the second book in Regan Walker’s Agents of the Crown Trilogy, is a passionate love story, in the best tradition of Regency romances! Set in 1817, Martin Powell returns to England after years spying in France, to complete one last mission. On his return, he visits a high class brothel, where he falls under the spell of a courtesan, whom he calls ‘Kitten’. After a passionate night of lovemaking, he finds that Kit has vanished. Kit is no courtesan, but Lady Egerton, who is fleeing a crime scene where she believes that she has killed her evil brother-in-law. Martin resolves to find her and make her his.

Kit sought refuge at Willow House, an establishment ran by her former governess, after experiencing some terrible events. Her beloved sister Anne was not even in the grave before her brother-in-law forced himself on her and she was compelled to retaliate. Ashamed at what took place at Willow House, between her and the mysterious gentleman, she flees, taking employment launching two girls on their first season. However, Martin finds Kit, rescuing her from the violent Earl Rutledge, who is seeking revenge. Attracted to Kit and wishing to protect her Martin offers marriage, although he fears that his clandestine activities could endanger her.

The England that Martin has returned to has changed. The introduction of machinery threatens workers’ livelihoods and poor harvests and an economic recession have led to discontent, riots and marches. The couple travel to the Midlands, where Martin goes undercover, posing as a Frenchman with reformist tendencies. His task is to infiltrate the rebels to ascertain the extent their activities are stirred up by agents provocateurs, employed by those in government who wish to justify further repressive legislation. However, as Kit innocently strolls through the countryside with her sketch book, is she safe from the lust of a vengeful man or the powder keg of social unrest which could explode any moment? Also can she trust her husband who will not divulge his secrets and the reason for his absences?

I adored Martin, who has been knighted for his services to the crown. He is brave, intelligent and resourceful and devoted to Kit. I also liked the fact that he is a very passionate individual, who cannot keep his hands off his new wife. He is however, tortured by tragic events in his past, prompting him to keep the truth about his true activities a secret from Kit , creating danger and tension in the plot and their relationship.

Kit is the type of heroine I love to root for. She has experienced much sadness and on the death of her father, she and her sister were both left destitute due to his gambling debts. Kit was married off to a much older man, who died soon after their marriage, leaving her no option but to live with her sister and her husband, the sadistic Earl Rutledge, who lusts after her. She is tired of being controlled by others, as she is a strong and independent individual by nature, who also empathises with the plight of others. However, she cannot resist losing her heart to Martin! Indeed, I loved the tender yet passionate lovemaking between the couple. The scene where they come together for the first time is very sensual and the author maintains this level of intensity in their relationship, with numerous romantic encounters. The love story is artfully balanced with the danger and intrigue in the plot.

The detail within the narrative shows that once again Regan Walker has carried out a great deal of research in crafting this novel. The author’s descriptions of the living and working conditions of the inhabitants of rural Derbyshire, where much of the plot takes place, are credible, and her characters well drawn. I enjoyed meeting the real historical figures who were included in the tale and also reacquainting myself with Hugh and Mary, the couple from the first book Racing with the Wind. We are also introduced to Nick, Martin’s older brother, the hero of Wind Raven, the final book in the trilogy, whose book I am eagerly awaiting.

In reading this novel, I feel that I not only enjoyed a great romantic read but also learned much about the social and economic conditions and the political machinations of the time. I recommend it to those who enjoy historical romance with elements of intrigue and suspense.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

This book was given to me by the author for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

Regan Walker’s website

Publisher Boroughs Publishing Group

Digital edition created by Maureen Cutajar www.gopublished.com

April 29, 2013 by Tina Williams

Betrayed (# 3 in the Roman/Druid Series), by Christina Phillips

Erotic Historical Romance

Adult content 18+

A Beautiful and Passionate Meeting Of Soul Mates

Betrayed is an erotic historical romance, set in Roman Britain. It describes a beautiful and passionate love between two sworn enemies, Tacitus, a Roman Tribune and Nimue, a priestess from the Druid nobility, whom the Romans are pledged to eradicate. It is a fantastic addition to the other two books in Christina Phillips’ Roman/Druid Series, Forbidden and Captive, and can be read as a stand alone.

Betrayed takes place in Cymru, in 51 A.D, where the Romans are committed to quashing rebellion. Whilst on an important mission for Caratacus, the Briton King, Druid priestess Nimue is injured and captured. Tacitus is entranced by her beauty and demeanor. To prevent her being treated as a spoil of war to be sold to the highest bidder, he purchases her as his slave, lest any other man seeks to possess her.

Tacitus ensures that Nimue has the best medical care while she recuperates and gives her more freedoms than a slave is due. Initially Nimue is unaware that Tacitus owns her and does not comprehend why she is not held with the other prisoners. There is a strong sexual chemistry between them and as passion ignites, Nimue decides to take advantage of what his body has to offer, whilst biding her time until her recovery so that she can complete her mission for the Briton King.

Nimue is angry and mortified when she comprehends her lowly status, which she regards as being little more than a whore. However, she cannot prevent herself falling in love with Tacitus, enemy of the Druids, who would turn her over for torture and cruxifiction if he knew of her true heritage. She knows that she is coveted by other officers in the legion and realises that Tacitus spoke the truth when he said that he enslaved her for her own safety. However, her promise to Caratacus and her birthright dictate that she must betray him and this is heartbreaking. Nimue also has a task to carry out for her goddess, linked to a sacred bluestone, which her people hold in high esteem. I was so drawn into the world that the author created that I lay awake at night fretting about what would happen to Nimue and Tacitus and whether they would get their HEA!

Nimue is a fantastic heroine, not only brave but also possessing great knowledge as she is an acolyte to the goddess Arianrhod. She seeks guidance and enlightenment in some mystical scenes which take place throughout the novel. She is also a skilled healer and archer. She is loyal to her people and wants to free them from the indignities she sees them suffer. She knows that Tacitus will view her actions as the ultimate betrayal and also what will happen to her if she fails. She also carries a secret burden and heartbreak from her past.

Tacitus is a wonderful hero, masterful and passionate. A complex and honourable individual, he does not always conform to Roman views. He has never taken a slave and will not force himself on a woman. Tacitus is entranced by Nimue, who is open and confident in her sexuality and is amused that she, a slave, gives him orders. He strives to understand her customs and beliefs. However, what will he do when he discovers that she is not just a Celt, but a Druid who communes with the gods, let alone one who is hell bent on betraying his trust?

The author creates a world full characters that jumped of the page. I am no scholar of ancient Britain but she appears to have done a lot of research into the customs, religion and medicinal uses of various herbs etc. of the time. The erotic scenes are beautifully executed and you could really sense the growing connection between the lovers, who, despite being sworn enemies were a perfect foil for each other. I feared that I, along with my Kindle, would spontaneously combust whilst reading it!

I recommend this novel to all lovers of erotic romance, especially those who like a historical theme and a strong heroine and a leading man who is the embodiment of male sexuality and virtue. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, Tainted.

I was lucky enough to win a copy of the e-book of Betrayed in a competition and have carried out an honest and fair review.

Click for Christina Phillips’ website.

Find out more at Ellora’s Cave

Permission to feature cover art kindly received from Ellora’s Cave

Edited by Victoria Reese

Cover design by Fiona Jayde

Cover photography by Andreas Gradin and Medvedev Vladimir/Shutterstock.com

April 10, 2013 by Tina Williams

Borderland Bride (The Borderland Legacy # 1), by Samantha Holt

Medieval Romance Borderlands Style

Samantha Holt has written yet another winner with this stirring medieval romance in Borderland Bride, set in the wilds of Northumbria. Secrets and intrigue abound in this tale of love, which features not just one, but two gorgeous men, a strong heroine and a villain out for revenge. I have in the past by-passed the Borderlands, but after reading this novel and finding out how chivalrous the men can be, I feel I need to visit and do a little exploration of my own…

In the tale Lady Isabel, who has been set on by outlaws, is rescued by Jake, a brooding knight and taken back to the home of his enigmatic brother Dominic, where she slowly recovers from her injuries. There is an instant connection forged between Isabel and Jake, despite the fact that her injuries mean that she has lost her hearing and her ability to speak. Jake takes a strong interest in Isabel’s recovery. He is very protective and the passages where the couple succeed in communicating, despite her injuries, are both romantic and touching.

Jake’s younger half-brother, Dominic, is lord of Thornewall Keep, but Jake often resides there to assist with his affairs and protect the keep and the local people from border reivers, the criminals who prey on the Borderlands. Dominic is a consummate flirt. He quickly notices Jake’s attachment to Isabel and takes every opportunity to tease and torment him as only a brother can. Jake is a widower, scarred physically and emotionally from the relationship with his wife, who died in tragic circumstances. Usually uncomfortable around women, he feels a growing attachment towards Isabel. However, he is tortured by his past and his emotions are conflicted, for whilst he does not feel worthy of Isabel, at the same time he finds it hard to trust another woman and has no wish to marry. He also has a strong temper, which he finds difficult to control.

Isabel has her own secrets. Despite her noble bearing, the brothers do not recognise her as belonging to one of the local families and she refuses to reveal to them her true identity or why she was alone in the Northumbrian countryside. Isabel is a strong and feisty woman, who is sometimes wilful, but is very grateful for her rescue and the protection offered to her by Dominic and Jake. She is attracted to Jake and their relationship becomes very physical. However, before matters progress further and Isabel can reveal her secrets, people from her past appear and Jake feels betrayed. Isabel is forced into making a life changing decision to protect the two brothers she cares about, but which does not reflect her heart’s desire. There is also a villain waiting in the wings to complicate the plot further before a HEA can be found.

This is the third book that I have read by Samantha Holt and I love the way that she writes her romances. Much of the focus is on the interaction between the hero and the heroine and how their relationship develops and this is how I feel it should be in a romance novel. The sensual scenes in the novel are beautifully written and paced to reflect the growing attraction and passion between the main couple. Isabel is certainly no shrinking violet and I loved her passionate character and the way she often took control, as her confidence grows. I also liked how the author did not immediately reveal Isabel’s past and why she was alone in the wilderness, keeping the reader, as well as the brothers, guessing. This created a strong element of intrigue, which not only acted as a good counterpoint to the developing romance, but drove the plot forward.

The interaction between Jake and Dominic when faced with Isabel in their midst was fascinating, as were the differences in their characters. Jake being more serious and brooding, with a quick temper and Dominic, the flirt, who is more even tempered but whose facade hides a complex character. There was often a great deal of humour in their banter, which I enjoyed.

I recommend this book to all lovers of romance, especially those who enjoy reading sensuous medieval romance. I am looking forward to reading more instalments of The Borderland Legacy and other books by Samantha Holt. If you’d like to read an interview with Samantha, please scroll up to the post above this one.

Find Borderland Bride at Jupiter Gardens Press

Cover art by Valerie Tibbs

Samantha Holt’s website

Please click on the link for A Reader’s Review Blog’s review of Samantha Holt’s The Angel’s Assassin.

March 20, 2013 by Tina Williams

The Angel’s Assassin, by Samantha Holt

The Redemptive Power of Love

In this medieval romance penned by Samantha Holt, a dark knight finds redemption through the power of love, in a romantic tale that I found had an almost fable like quality.

In The Angel’s Assassin, Nicholas, a hardened mercenary knight, is employed by Lord Benedict. He is tasked with taking his niece Annabel, under the pretext of protecting her from rebels, from her home at Castle Alderweald, and return her to Benedict’s abode. Once there, he is to guard her until he receives word from his employer to return her to Alderweald, ensuring that she then meets with a fatal accident. In the intervening time Lord Benedict will persuade the king, Williams Rufus, that Annabel is a traitor, thus paving the way for him to inherit Alderweald, without suspicion falling on him. Nicholas has not killed a woman before, but accepts the task. When he reaches Alderweald Castle it is already under siege from the rebels. Nicholas therefore easily persuades the terrified young woman that he has been sent by her uncle to bring her to safety, and they escape on foot into the adjacent forest.

Nicholas has never met a woman like Annabel, whom he finds angelic, almost fey like in her appearance and he fights his attraction knowing what he must do. Annabel in turn is grateful to her rescuer, seeing him as a brave and honourable man. Forced into close proximity a strong attraction develops into something far deeper. Yet will Nicholas fulfil his contract? What will Annabel do if she finds out his real motives for rescuing her? Annabel’s evil uncle will go to any ends necessary to claim Alderweald, even if Nicholas decides to leave his contract unfulfilled. The remaining plot contains some sweet and hot love making scenes, deceit, violence, betrayal and redemption.

Nicholas, a lonely man, has accumulated wealth due to his misdeeds but he sees no joy in life until Annabel. He is awed by her blind trust in him as her saviour, but also her kindness and intelligence. I loved the way she seems to mesmerise and bewitch him. Annabel has had no experience of men outside her own family. She is immediately grateful to her mysterious and taciturn rescuer and little by little she breaches his defences, finding out as much as she can about him. She knows that he is not unaffected by her presence and finds him equally attractive.

I found the tale to be a sweet romance with likeable central characters. I love a dark hero and was praying for his redemption and a HEA throughout. Much of the plot centred on the couples’ growing attraction towards each other, the conflict coming from Nicholas’ own feelings of self loathing and from the machinations of Lord Benedict. I found that Annabel was not your typical Medieval heroine, as she succumbed to the physical side of their relationship more easily than perhaps a lady would have done at the time. However, she is portrayed as a character who knows her own mind and I think that any woman faced with a hero such as Nicholas would have acted the same way! I enjoy Samantha Holt’s writing style, which enables the reader to get into the head of her characters and transports them into another time and place. If you like medieval romances I can also recommend her novel A Crimson Castle.

Author Samantha Holt’s website

March 13, 2013 by Caroline Barker

The Return by Carter Vance

The Return This book was received thankfully from the author in return for an honest and fair review.

‘The Return’ is a story about the rebirth of Christ, the second coming. Only, as the dark forces are doing all they can to prevent this major event from taking place we find out that the Knights Templar are still in existence and have been waiting for this moment where they can use their resources to protect Him and His family.

The story begins with Geoff, an investment banker, having a holiday at his friend Jacque’s house in Southern France. Here, Geoff finds a secret room full of literature. He discovers a book referring to the Knights Templar, written in modern day language and referring to the Templars as being in existence today. From here, Geoff quickly takes a plane back to London and carries out in-depth research regarding the Templars and their purpose, theories and background. He travels various places around the globe to carry out more, extensive research. And, gradually, certain people begin to get suspicious and track him down to find out what he knows.

I found Geoff to be a little naïve as there was at least one occasion when he felt that he was being followed. Later, he is approached by a woman, Regina, claiming to be a lawyer, who just happens to be inquiring about something in relation to the Templars and yet he doesn’t add these situations up. He doesn’t seem to think that it is too much of a coincidence. This was a little frustrating and he was subsequently killed.

Personally, I wasn’t happy with the storyline at this point as Geoff appeared to be the main character, the hero, and yet here he was being killed off. I was left trying to pick up the pieces of the other characters to try and connect with them but this did prove to be difficult as up until this point Geoff and his findings were focused heavily on, making the other characters appear to be more brief, background characters.

The story then unfolds to reveal that Geoff’s friends, Peter Christos and Sarah Davidson, become an item, marry and Sarah falls pregnant. Her baby is destined to be Him, the one that the human race has been waiting for for centuries. This seems to happen all too quickly with very little attention paid to connecting with these characters and feeling their relationship and romance grow. More description and detail were needed in these areas.

The reader is then taken on an adventure as the Knights Templar make preparations for the birth and protection of Him, whilst constantly under the threat of the dark forces. Both sides have very strong allies and support from the Vatican to scientists to drugs traffickers, etc. This adds intensity to the story as the reader is never sure which side will possibly win as they both seem fairly equal.

This novel is mostly written to the point. It is very direct and factual when it comes to theories, however it did lack some description in parts and emotion to the characters. On the one hand, it was nice to follow as theories were occasionally repeated, not too often, but enough to keep the reader in check. And, on the other hand, it would have been an idea to elaborate more with romance and emotion on the relationship between Peter and Sarah, thus helping the reader to engage with their characters and gain a great sense of how they became so close so quickly.

When it comes to the theories, it is obvious that Carter Vance has a great deal of knowledge in this area and he does explain these ideas well. This is the first book I have read covering this subject and I initally felt that this would be way over my head, however I did understand and enjoy the storyline.

My overall opinion of ‘The Return’ is a mixed bag. However, on the whole it is an enjoyable, well-written read. It has kept me entertained throughout and it is surprisingly a nice read to follow, as opposed to losing me with language and theology.

Carter Vance’s website – http://www.cartervancebooks.com

Book cover by kind permission of Carter Vance.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

March 3, 2013 by Tina Williams

The Vampire Viscount, by Karen Harbaugh

Vampire seeks willing Virgin

I came across this romance the other day, attracted by its title and the cover but especially the book blurb. I love to read both paranormal and Regency romances and I really like historical novels with an arranged marriage theme. The story centres on the Viscount St. Vire, a vampire who tries to invoke a magic spell to restore his humanity and prevent his slow but sure descent into madness due to his vampire state.

In The Vampire Viscount, reclusive Nicholas, St. Vire, has found that he needs to marry a virgin, who will come willingly to him and after a year he will be human again. Fate plays into his hands when he fleeces a drunk and impoverished Mr Edward Farleigh at cards and for payment accepts the hand of his virginal daughter, Leonore in lieu of this and other debts. Leonore at first resents being ‘sold’ in such a way, preferring to continue with her life as a governess. However, she acquiesces to the match in the hope that she can secure a better future for her mother and sister. She also believes that Nicholas is seriously ill and does not have long for this world, his wan complexion and need to avoid the sunlight bearing testimony to some sort of wasting disease and she feels pity for him. Leonore and Nicholas have a whirlwind courtship, where he seduces her with his wit and charm.

Once they are married Leonore willingly gives herself to him and falls hard for him as he is all that is attentive and kind and they appear to share a mutual attraction. She suspects nothing of his true nature, which is kept well hidden and Nicholas eagerly awaits a time when he may be human again. All is well until Leonore suspects that Nicholas has secrets that he is not willing to share with her and she begins to lose trust in him. This trust is severely put to the test when a mysterious woman, the widow Lady Lazio, appears. The unfolding tale contains elements of jealousy, deception and murder.

The storyline flowed smoothly and I enjoyed the central romance and the supporting characters. I liked both the hero and the heroine and enjoyed their witty repartee. There are some sweet lovemaking scenes, and St. Vire is a very cheeky viscount indeed as he pushes the boundaries of what is acceptable in Regency society during their courtship! Leonore does not trust easily due to her experiences with her drunk and abusive father. However, she is no shrinking violet and speaks her mind. Nicholas, although jaded by his vampire state, appears thoughtful and charming and has a great sense of humour. Although he is clearly using Leonore for his own ends, he does develop strong feelings for her. My only concern was that perhaps more could have been made of the dark side of his nature. However, this is perhaps not surprising as Nicholas is a vampire who values his humanity and tries to control his vampire urges. Also this book was first published in 1995 and as the author explains in a preamble to the book, the melding together of vampires in a regency romance was unheard of then! Overall I thought this novel was a really enjoyable read and I liked the fact that it helped pioneer the paranormal sub genres that I love.

Although there is much romance in this book, there is less emphasis on the world of vampires. If you are looking for a Regency romance with strong paranormal elements, this probably is not the book for you. However, if you’d like to read a Regency romance with an innovative paranormal twist then this fits the bill perfectly.

Author Karen Harbaugh’s website

February 11, 2013 by Tina Williams

The Club by Sharon Page

Racy Regency Romance

I enjoy Regency romances and have wanted to read a Sharon Page novel for some time. This one intrigued me as it has a gentleman’s club at the centre of the plot and promised to be a sensuous read!

In The Club Widow Jane Beaumont, Lady Sherringham enters a notorious private club, posing as a patron, in search of her friend Delphinia. Del disappeared after she was seen attending the club with her debauched husband. Jane, intent on finding out what happened to her friend, immediately encounters Christian Sutcliffe, Lord Wickham, Del’s brother, a well-known libertine. Christian went into self-imposed exile abroad after he killed a man in a duel over a woman, but has returned to search for his sister, who had written to him telling him how unhappy she was, prior to her disappearance. Neither Jane nor Christian believes the claim made by Del’s husband, that Del has ran off with a lover to the Continent.

Christian warns Jane to stay out of the club before she compromises her safety. However, Jane and ignores his wishes and they spend more time together in and out of the club, as they try and find out what has happened to Del. Jane, abused by her deceased husband, is skittish around men and it takes all of her courage to venture into the club, posing as Christian’s lover.

Mrs Broughton’s club is a place where married couples of the ton go in search of sexual fulfilment and adventure – not always with each other! The author describes a number of consensual scenes, between a range of partners, which include bondage and the use of other paraphernalia one would expect in a sex club. It becomes clear that some women, including Del were not wholly willing participants in the activities there. Whilst investigating the club, Jane and Christian also uncover some other nefarious activities taking place at an establishment linked to it.

Christian and Jane knew each other when they were younger and often clashed. Christian found Jane to be rather serious and forthright, always willing to criticise him, whereas Jane believed Christian to be a wastrel and a womaniser. Jane fears male contact and is adamant that she will not marry again and put herself at the mercy of another man. However, she slowly finds herself drawn to Christian romantically. She is torn between what she knows of Christian’s past behaviour and the actions he takes now, where she sees him care deeply for those around him and act with honour. Indeed, she thinks his considerate behaviour towards her is prompted by his desire to rescue her and not out of love. All this is at odds with the rumours about his sexual conquests and liking for violent sex. She also fears that he will face trial for his sin of shooting the man in the duel.

I immediately liked Christian. He was reckless in his youth and got up to all sorts of adventures abroad, although Jane learns that his actions were not just about self-gratification but also about rescuing those less fortunate than himself. He is not afraid of using violence or the threat of violence against those who threaten those he loves. He recognises Jane’s fear of men early in the novel and it is to his credit that he strives to protect her from the sexual advances of a number of debauched men in and out of the club. When they eventually become lovers he is patient and attentive, realising that she has never known physical pleasure only abuse. There are nevertheless a number of sensual lovemaking scenes between them in some inventive locations!

There a number of secondary characters who naturally resent the couple investigating Del’s disappearance and other matters that come to light in their search for her. The plot develops swiftly and involves scenes at the club, blackmail, violence and murder. There are also a number of unexpected plot twists. With all of these obstacles, we are left wondering whether Jane and Christian can ever find their happy ever after.

I recommend this novel if you enjoy Regency romances with added spice. I liked the fact that the plot revolved around the club and the underbelly of London and I enjoyed the interaction between the hero and heroine. The plot was complex and engaging and acted as an excellent counterpoint to the sex scenes. Due to the lovemaking scenes, I would class the novel as sensual in content and therefore suitable for those aged 18 and above.

Author’s website www.sharonpage.com

Published by Ebury Publishing, part of the Random House Group www.randomhouse.co.uk