Review of Desperately Seeking Mr. Darcy by Becky Monson

 

She just wanted a Mr. Darcy… not her best friend’s brother in breeches.

"Didn't see that coming" could be my life's motto. I mean, I certainly didn't foresee my roommate stealing my boyfriend—an unfortunate turn of events that led to me moving in with my best friend and her infuriatingly attractive brother. Oh, and speaking of the brother? I might have once confessed my love for him, only to be met with soul-crushing, dignity-shattering unrequited feelings. Fun times, indeed.

But in this series of unexpected disasters, one surprise actually worked in my favor: winning a trip to Pride and Prejudice Park, where I get to play my literary hero, Elizabeth Bennet. Sounds like a dream, right?

Well, even that plan goes off the rails. The trip takes such a wild turn that Zane—my best friend’s brother—ends up tagging along and playing Mr. Darcy. And here’s the biggest shock of all: suddenly, all this pretending starts to feel incredibly real. Could Zane actually be the Mr. Darcy I’ve been searching for my entire life? Or will my Pride and Prejudice dreams remain just that—a dream?

USA Today Bestselling Author Becky Monson delivers a witty and romantic escape, where unrequited love, Regency roleplay, and one very unexpected Mr. Darcy collide.

Available on Amazon (KU!)

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Also check out the companion book, Without Pride and Prejudice by Jennifer Peel!

**My thoughts**

A lot of people like to reimagine the classics, and it can be tiring. But I knew that I could trust Becky Monson to take Pride and Prejudice and reimagine it in the most unique way. This book, and its companion by Jennifer Peel [Without Pride and Prejudice], are quickly becoming this month's favorite reads. 

Becky has taken the story of Pride and Prejudice and placed it inside the story of Pride and Prejudice. Macy has had a lot of ups and downs in her life and would really like for something to just go her way for once, all by herself. So when she wins her dream trip to role play Pride and Prejudice actually in England, she jumps at the chance. And can you blame her?

[Quick side note: Who knew there were Regency role playing vacations? I may have to look into this...]

Naturally, she wants to be Elizabeth. I mean, don't we all? And her best friend's brother Zane randomly tags along to play Mr. Darcy. So now she is fulfilling a childhood dream, because she's been in love with Zane for almost as long as she can remember. She even made a total fool out of herself with him many, many years ago. 

The characters who end up playing the various characters play their roles very well. Macy works hard to first discover her inner Elizabeth and then to channel her. And Zane as Mr. Darcy? Um, yes, please. 

[I also feel like I need a little bit of Mr. Collins and Mr. Bennet in my life. You won't think me so weird once you read about them!]

I love watching Macy come into her own, finally, as she works to make all of her dreams come true. I love watching Pride and Prejudice come alive in yet another way. I'm craving the Colin Firth miniseries right now. And I can't wait to read the companion novel for Monroe and Fitz's story!

Becky Monson, every time I think I have found my favorite book by you, you hit another one out of the park. Thank you for this one!

Read an exclusive excerpt from If the Duke Dares by Darcy Burke

 

If the Bridgerton series made you a fan of regency and all of the rakish dukes, please let me introduce you to Darcy Burke. Your bonus today is being able to read an excerpt from her latest, If the Duke Dares. Be sure to download it and then enter the great giveaway! There's more if you continue to follow the tour. 

Review of the Bridgerton Collection Volume 2 by Juila Quinn

An enchanting collection containing books four, five, and six of #1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn’s beloved Regency-set Bridgerton novels—Romancing Mister Bridgerton; To Sir Phillip, with Love; and When He Was Wicked—now a series created by Shondaland for Netflix.

Review of When He Was Wicked (Bridgertons #6) by Julia Quinn

FRANCESCA’S STORY

In every life there is a turning point. A moment so tremendous, so sharp and breathtaking, that one knows one’s life will never be the same. For Michael Stirling, London’s most infamous rake, that moment came the first time he laid eyes on Francesca Bridgerton.

Review of To Sir Phillip, With Love (Bridgerton #5) by Julia Quinn

 

A New York Times Bestseller

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn comes the story of Eloise Bridgerton, in the fifth of her beloved Regency-set novels featuring the charming, powerful Bridgerton family, now a series created by Shondaland for Netflix.

ELOISE’S STORY

Sir Phillip knew that Eloise Bridgerton was a spinster, and so he’d proposed, figuring that she’d be homely and unassuming, and more than a little desperate for an offer of marriage. Except . . . she wasn’t. The beautiful woman on his doorstep was anything but quiet, and when she stopped talking long enough to close her mouth, all he wanted to do was kiss her . . . and more.

Did he think she was mad? Eloise Bridgerton couldn’t marry a man she had never met! But then she started thinking . . . and wondering . . . and before she knew it, she was in a hired carriage in the middle of the night, on her way to meet the man she hoped might be her perfect match. Except . . . he wasn’t. Her perfect husband wouldn’t be so moody and ill-mannered, and while Phillip was certainly handsome, he was a large brute of a man, rough and rugged, and totally unlike the London gentlemen vying for her hand. But when he smiled . . . and when he kissed her . . . the rest of the world simply fell away, and she couldn’t help but wonder . . . could this imperfect man be perfect for her?

Review of Romancing Mr. Bridgerton (Bridgertons #4) by Julia Quinn

 

COLIN AND PENELOPE’S STORY

Penelope Featherington has secretly adored her best friend’s brother for . . . well, it feels like forever. After half a lifetime of watching Colin Bridgerton from afar, she thinks she knows everything about him, until she stumbles across his deepest secret . . . and fears she doesn’t know him at all.

Colin Bridgerton is tired of being thought of as nothing but an empty-headed charmer, tired of the notorious gossip columnist Lady Whistledown, who can’t seem to publish an edition without mentioning him. But when Colin returns to London from a trip abroad, he discovers nothing in his life is quite the same—especially Penelope Featherington! The girl who was always simply there is suddenly the girl haunting his dreams. When he discovers that Penelope has secrets of her own, this elusive bachelor must decide . . . is she his biggest threat— or his promise of a happy ending?

Book Links

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Also found in the second Bridgerton box set:

Amazon * BN

**My thoughts**

I was so delighted to get to this story because Penelope is one of my favorite characters. I find myself relating to her a lot more than any of the Bridgertons. Plus we have seen her and Colin dancing around each other for a few years now.

The other fun part of this book is the revelation of Lady Whistledown's true identity. Now, if you've watched the first series on Netflix, the revelations will not be a surprise. But it's fun to watch it play out in this book. I adore the scene with the official reveal. (And really wish they would have held off in the Netflix version.)

It's a good sign when a series continues to hold your interest even at the fourth book. And this one definitely makes up for the third, which is still my least favorite (six books in, at least). I also enjoyed the lead-in to the fifth book, another one I've been curious about for a while.

Review of The Bridgerton Collection Volume 1 by Julia Quinn

 

An enchanting collection containing the first three novels in New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn’s beloved Bridgerton series set in Regency England—The Duke and I, The Viscount Who Loved Me, and An Offer from a Gentleman—now a series created by Shondaland for Netflix.


The Duke and I
When Daphne Bridgerton and Simon Basset, Duke of Hastings, agree to a fake courtship, they think they’ve found the perfect solution to their problems. Romantically associated with one of London’s most desirable catches, Daphne’s prospects among the ton will soar. For avowed bachelor Simon, an attachment to Daphne will deter would-be brides and their ambitious mamas. Their plan works like a charm—at first. But amid the glittering, gossipy, cut-throat world of London’s elite, there is only one certainty: love ignores every rule. . .

The Viscount Who Loved Me
London's most elusive bachelor, Anthony Bridgerton is determined to wed. But one obstacle stands in his way—his intended's older sister, Kate Sheffield, who is driving Anthony mad with her determination to stop the betrothal. Kate is quite sure that reformed rakes do not make the best husbands, and Anthony Bridgerton is the most wicked rogue of them all. She’s determined to protect her sister—even as she fears she may not be able to resist the reprehensible and oh so desirable rake herself . . .

An Offer from a Gentleman
Sophie Beckett never dreamed she'd be able to sneak into Lady Bridgerton's famed masquerade ball—or that she would be spinning in the arms of her "Prince Charming"—the debonair and devastatingly handsome Benedict Bridgerton. But when the clock strikes midnight, Sophie’s enchanting evening ends. Since that night Benedict has been able to think of nothing but the bewitching young woman, and he’s sworn to find and wed his mystery miss. Yet will another unexpectedly steal his heart—and his chance for a fairy tale love?

Review of An Offer From a Gentleman (Bridgertons #3) by Julia Quinn

 

BENEDICT’S STORY

Sophie Beckett never dreamed she’d be able to sneak into Lady Bridgerton’s famed masquerade ball—or that “Prince Charming” would be waiting there for her! Though the daughter of an earl, Sophie has been relegated to the role of servant by her disdainful stepmother. But now, spinning in the strong arms of the debonair and devastatingly handsome Benedict Bridgerton, she feels like royalty. Alas, she knows all enchantments must end when the clock strikes midnight.

Ever since that magical night, a radiant vision in silver has blinded Benedict to the attractions of any other—except, perhaps, this alluring and oddly familiar beauty dressed in housemaid’s garb whom he feels compelled to rescue from a most disagreeable situation. He has sworn to find and wed his mystery miss, but this breathtaking maid makes him weak with wanting her. Yet, if he offers her his heart, will Benedict sacrifice his only chance for a fairy-tale love?

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

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**My thoughts**

I didn't like this one nearly as much as I liked the first two books. Benedict really disappointed me with his forceful insistence that Sophie be his mistress. This after such a magical first encounter! I mean, I knew it was going to take some time for true identities to be revealed. But his behavior was reprehensible no matter who he thought she was. Kind of a misfire on the intended Cinderella thing.

And yet I was still engrossed and zipped through it in one afternoon, looking for the redemption in Benedict that does eventually come. And it was fun seeing the other couples pop in. I still look forward to more from this family.

Review of The Viscount Who Loved Me (Bridgertons #2) by Julia Quinn

 

ANTHONY’S STORY

This time the gossip columnists have it wrong. London’s most elusive bachelor Anthony Bridgerton hasn’t just decided to marry—he’s even chosen a wife! The only obstacle is his intended’s older sister, Kate Sheffield—the most meddlesome woman ever to grace a London ballroom. The spirited schemer is driving Anthony mad with her determination to stop the betrothal, but when he closes his eyes at night, Kate’s the woman haunting his increasingly erotic dreams...

Contrary to popular belief, Kate is quite sure that reformed rakes do not make the best husbands—and Anthony Bridgerton is the most wicked rogue of them all. Kate’s determined to protect her sister—but she fears her own heart is vulnerable. And when Anthony’s lips touch hers, she’s suddenly afraid she might not be able to resist the reprehensible rake herself...

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

(affiliate links included in post)

Also available as part of the first box set on Amazon.

**My thoughts**

The weekend before the second season dropped on Netflix, I binged the entire first box set of Bridgerton books, including this one. This is the book upon which the second season is based. I think this one is my favorite of those first three. (Actually, I have read the first six and this one is still my favorite.) 

The banter between Anthony and Kate and all of their little scrapes had me literally laughing out loud. I also love Kate's dog. And how does one secure an invite to play Pall Mall with the Bridgerton family? 

I am pretty sure I will read this one again. 4.5 out of 5 stars for me.

Review of The Duke and I (The Bridgertons #1) by Julia Quinn

 

Can there be any greater challenge to London's Ambitious Mamas than an unmarried duke?—Lady Whistledown's Society Papers, April 1813

By all accounts, Simon Basset is on the verge of proposing to his best friend's sister—the lovely and almost-on-the-shelf—Daphne Bridgerton. But the two of them know the truth—it's all an elaborate ruse to keep Simon free from marriage-minded society mothers. And as for Daphne, surely she will attract some worthy suitors now that it seems a duke has declared her desirable.

But as Daphne waltzes across ballroom after ballroom with Simon, it's hard to remember that their courtship is a sham. Maybe it's his devilish smile, certainly it's the way his eyes seem to burn every time he looks at her . . . but somehow Daphne is falling for the dashing duke . . . for real! And now she must do the impossible and convince the handsome rogue that their clever little scheme deserves a slight alteration, and that nothing makes quite as much sense as falling in love.

Book Links

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(affiliate link included)

Buy as part of the first boxed set

**My thoughts**

I'm not a Regency fan, at least not by contemporary authors. (I do enjoy Jane Austen.) So I hadn't even heard of the Bridgerton series until everyone was raving about the Netflix series. So I watched it and liked it well enough, but never gave a thought to reading it.

Then one day, I saw an amazing deal on one of the book discount/sale sites where the box set of the first three books was even cheaper than one solo book. I used a gift card and then the set sat on my TBR until it was time to prepare for the second season to drop on Netflix. I brushed off the digital dust and dove into The Duke and I.

I finished it in one day.

Netflix took a lot of liberties with the book in its first series. I was already aware of a lot of those changes from reading articles back then. I honestly didn't think anything of it when I was reading the book, though, because I was so engrossed. It honestly made me more eager to go back to the Netflix series to watch the first season again. In a way, it reminded me of what Showtime with the original Dexter. I have come to see the two Bridgertons as parallel universes much as I did with Jeff Lindsay's books versus Showtime's series.

What I liked about this book was first meeting the family and so many wonderful characters. The writing is done in a rather contemporary fashion in spite of this being a Regency. The vocabulary, tempo, and such are appropriate to the time period, yet it reads like a contemporary book. And the snappy dialogue is highly entertaining. I can see why people call Julia Quinn a modern Jane Austen, especially with Lady Whistledown.

So yes, I am a Bridgerton fan and will likely make my way through them all. (I did read books two and three in the same weekend binge.) And this just goes to show you the importance of a good writer, no matter the topic or genre.

The Most Eligible Bride in London by Ella Quinn

 Today I have an excerpt for you from a regency romance. Take a peek inside The Most Eligible Bride in London by Ella Quinn and then follow the tour for even more! Best of luck entering the giveaway!

Love conquers even the most unlikely lord in USA Today bestselling author Ella Quinn’s delightful Lords of London series, as a reformed rogue endeavors to prove himself worthy of his chosen bride . . .

Mistakes happen, to be sure. Rarely are those mistakes as unfortunate as the one made by Nathanael, Viscount Fotherby, when he abducted the now Lady Merton to save his friend from marriage. Nate has been trying to make amends ever since, leaving behind his self-centered ways to fulfill his duties—and that includes finding a wife of his own. One woman sparks his interest above all others—a lady he helped when she was rescuing a child. Alas, there is a devilish complication . . .

Miss Henrietta Stern, Lady Merton’s younger sister, is intrigued by the stranger who comes to her aid—until she learns his identity. Nate’s stunt could have ruined her sister’s reputation, and her family may never forgive him. With beauty, connections, and a sizeable dowry, Henrietta has plenty of admirers. Yet no other suitor quickens her pulse quite like Nate does. Her heart insists that the gentleman has changed for the better. But can a renowned scoundrel possibly prove himself to be the perfect husband?

Read an excerpt:

“Miss, what should we do?” the messenger, a young boy named Toby they had hired for messages and odd jobs, asked Miss Henrietta Stern.

“Where is Mrs. Perriman?” She and her sister, Dotty, Marchioness of Merton, had assisted in the rescue of many children and infants during the time Henrietta had been in Town for her first Season. However, due to her sister’s pregnancy, they had asked Mrs. Perriman, the widow and daughter of army officers, who ran their charity, the Phoenix House, to perform the rescues. Normally Henrietta would not have hesitated, but she had never gone alone before.

“She’s out on another call, and I don’t know when she’ll be back.” The lad bounced from one foot to the other, clearly distraught. “The boy who brought the message said the baby’s mam died and the babe was poorly.”

There was only one thing to do. “I shall go.” Henrietta had read the short, barely literate note stating the sender had a baby they were willing to sell. “We’ll need to have a wet nurse brought here.”

“Miss Henrietta.” Parkin, her brother-in-law’s butler’s eyes rounded. “Neither her ladyship nor his lordship would approve.”

“It’s not as if I am going to St Giles or worse. It is still light and will be for the next hour. If we do not rescue this child now, it may die.” The butler’s stern countenance did not change. “I’ll take Cullen with me.” He was the largest of all Merton’s tall footmen. Henrietta suspected the man had been a soldier at one time, as many of the footmen were. “I shall be perfectly safe.” She would also take the Manton pistol that had been made for her.

“You will need a groom as well,” the butler said.

Henrietta stifled a sigh of relief. Parkin was not happy about this, but he would not stop her. “Yes, of course. Thank you.”

By the time she had changed into a sturdy, dark-blue wool serge gown she’d had made by the modiste at home, donned a plain bonnet, tucked her pistol in the pocket she’d had sewn into her mantle, and taken the coins needed from the strongbox kept for the purpose, the unmarked town coach was waiting in the street. “The address is just down from the Whitechapel workhouse. We must hurry. I do wish to be there and gone before it is dark.”

“Yes, miss.” The footman, now dressed in regular clothing, closed the coach door behind her, and the coach dipped as he climbed on the back.

The journey would take about a half hour, and the sun was already lower in the sky than she would have liked. Still, the chance to save another child was worth the risk, and she had three servants with her. Granted, two would remain with the coach. Still, Cullen would be enough to keep her safe.

A large traveling coach almost blocked the street, but they slid past the vehicle and pulled up on the other side of the road. It was still light enough, but the sun was sinking by the minute. The narrow street and tall buildings did not help.

The coachman opened the hatch in the roof. “The street we want is just ahead on the left.”

The footman opened the door and helped her out. “I’ll stay a bit behind you just in case they’re up to no good.”

Book Links:

Amazon * Apple Books * Kobo * Nook * Google Play * Print * Amazon Audio * Audible * iTunes * Goodreads * BookBub 

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USA Today bestselling author Ella Quinn’s studies and other jobs have always been on the serious side (political science professor and lawyer). Reading historical romances, especially Regencies, were her escape. Eventually her love of historical novels led her to start writing them.

She is married to her wonderful husband of almost fourty years. They have a son and two beautiful granddaughters, a Great Dane named Lilibet, and a cat named Winnie. After living in the South Pacific, Central America, North Africa, England and Europe, she and her husband decided to make their dreams come true lived on sailboat for three years. After cruising the Caribbean and North America, she completed a transatlantic crossing from St. Martin to Southern Europe. She's currently living in Germany, happily writing while her husband is back at work, recovering from retirement. She expects to be back on the boat in 2022.

Ella loves when readers connect with her.

Author Contact and Social Media:

Website: https://www.ellaquinnauthor.com/

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/ellaquinnauthor

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Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ella-Quinn/e/B00CAE0FSQ

The author will be giving away a $20 Amazon/BN Gift Card to a randomly drawn winner. Follow the tour for more chances to win!

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Miss Felicity's Dilemma (Drake's Rakes Series) by Eileen Dreyer

Enjoy an excerpt from this sweet Regency romance, Miss Felicity's Dilemma from the Drake's Rakes series by Eileen Dreyer. Be sure to follow the tour for more excerpts and reviews. And of course, there is a great giveaway at the end!

Miss Felicity's Dilemma

ALL SHE WANTS IS HER OWN HOME

Miss Felicity Chambers is the new teacher of piano and deportment at Miss Manville’s Academy for Superior Girls. There is no reason a duke should contact her. There is certainly no reason she should marry his son. But that is evidently what the duke wants. Felicity should be delighted. But the orphaned schoolteacher has long since stopped believing in fairy tales. If only the duke’s son weren’t so compelling…

ALL HE WANTS IS THIS HOME

Lord Flint Bracken knows just what is behind the duke’s command, and it isn’t an attempt to secure a happily-ever-after for his son. The proposal is one of the duke’s schemes. Flint has no choice but to cooperate, though, or he risks more than his home. He risks national security. So court a penniless schoolteacher he must. He should be furious. But Felicity Chambers isn’t at all what he expected. She might very well be what he wants…

Read an excerpt:

It wasn't until she heard the door close that she breathed a sigh of relief. Time to escape from under the bed.

“Aren’t you growing cramped under there?” Lord Flint suddenly asked.

Felicity’s eyes flew open to find an upside-down face where the boots had been. Her heart dropped like a stone.

“Not at all,” she said, proud at how composed she sounded. “I am quite petite. But you really should have someone sweep under here. The dust balls are the size of wolfhounds.”

He reached a hand under the bed. For a moment Felicity just stared at it, unable to move. Even in the shadows it was a beautiful hand, with long, elegant fingers and a strong wrist. And she noticed beautiful hands. She was also, after all, the substitute art teacher for Miss Manners Academy for Superior Girls.

“I'm getting a crick in my neck,” Lord Flint growled, wiggling his fingers.

Felicity gave up and took hold. And gasped. It felt as if she'd been rubbing her stockinged feet on the carpet on a cold winter’s day and gotten a shock. She had heard of such a thing, of course, in every Minerva Press novel she had ever secreted under her pillow. But she had always thought it a literary device. A myth.

That was no myth tingling up her arm.

Before she had a chance to do more than stare at the offending member, Lord Flint grasped her tightly and pulled her out from under the bed. She came out in a tangle of arms and legs, dragging dust after her.

How mortifying, she thought, brushing madly at her sensible gray kerseymere skirts.

“Er....”

She looked up and forgot what she was going to say. She forgot her name.

He was beautiful. Tall and lean and russet-haired, with eyes the color of spring leaves and a humorous cant to his mouth. Chiseled features, square shoulders, slim hips. Hard and sharp as quartz.

Suddenly his name wasn’t so funny.

Buy Links:

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About Eileen Dreyer

New York Times Bestselling, award-winning author Eileen Dreyer has published 40 novels and 10 short stories under her name and that of her evil twin, Kathleen Korbel in contemporary romance, paranormal romance, historical romance, romantic suspense, mystery and medical forensic suspense. A proud member of RWA's Hall of FAME, she also has numerous awards from RT BookLovers and an Anthony nomination for mystery. She is now focusing on what she calls historic romantic adventure in her DRAKE'S RAKES series. A native of St. Louis, she still lives there with her family. She has animals but refuses to subject them to the limelight.


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Her Caprice by Keira Dominguez

Dear historical romance/Regency fans, this one is for you! Please enjoy an excerpt from Her Caprice by Keira Dominguez. Follow the book blast tour for even more excerpts and fun, plus multiple chances to enter the giveaway!

Her Caprice

A MOST PRIVATE BATTLE

Since Beatrice Thornton was 13 years old she's been living with a secret that could ruin her family forever. Her parents are the only ones who know, and now, seven years later, they are forced to put on a sham for Beatrice's late first Season. The plan, make Beatrice as mousy and ill-clothed as possible so no suitor would consider her. Then they can all escape back to their country home in Dorset to keep the terrible secret safe. But the unthinkable happens... Beatrice meets a man who gives her hope of a normal life, and Beatrice dares to love with horrible consequences.

Captain Henry Gracechurch has resigned his commission after living through the horrors and waste of war. Recently returned from Spain, he is cajoled by his formidable godmother to make an appearance at one of her famous balls. When he sees a young woman abandoned on the dance floor, honour commands him to save the day. Nothing could have prepared him for meeting the person who is a balm to his soul and gives wings to his heart. But winning Beatrice Thornton will take every ounce of courage he has, and this is a war he will win, no matter the cost.

Read an excerpt:

Beatrice stared dumbstruck at Lord Knowlton’s back.

Lady Sherbourne, her godmama, had introduced them, hissing behind her fan, “The only son of an old duke. Nothing like jumping in with both feet.” And then she had carted Mama off to the card room, leaving Beatrice to get on as best she could.

Lord Knowlton, in turn, had given Beatrice a look like she was a crate of dry goods dropped at the delivery door.

Now, after a truly dreadful dance, he wasn’t even giving her that. Instead, without so much as a bow, he was chasing after a girl whose tiny bodice had been performing heroic, if ultimately futile, work in aid of public decency.

Beatrice looked after him, furrowing her brow, the shock of his rudeness rooting her in place. So little was demanded of the clod—light conversation, a few observations on the weather this time of year and, finally, after they’d both decided they would rather die than be paired off again, he would escort her from the floor and they’d declare it the nicest half-hour either of them had ever spent.

But, no. The slithering reptile was completely gone. She stared after him in bewildered outrage until the sound of the room changed. No music for the moment and no sound of footsteps walking on and off the floor, only a low chatter ebbing away.

Beatrice looked around, the hairs on her arms standing up. She was suddenly alive to the fact that she was the only person conspicuously still on the vast ballroom floor—almost in the centre. She ground her teeth, incandescent with fear and rage, as her face went a telltale red.

How dare London be such a crushing disappointment? How dare it serve up a man who was no better than a… a…? There were no names she could think of that would not be an insult to idiots, vermin, and bastards.

Heads were beginning to swing toward her and Beatrice felt her cheeks turn white, leached of colour. Should she walk backward until she could melt into the crowd or pretend to answer a wave across the room and dash off purposefully? Flying out of the room was hardly possible. The back of her neck prickled and she could feel eyes sweeping around the ballroom, stopping on her lone figure.

If Mama and Papa had allowed her even one visit to the local assembly, she might not be so utterly at sea. Still, Mama would charge to her rescue, if only she could be found. Beatrice stretched her neck and raised herself onto her tiptoes, ready to fabricate an acquaintance over near the tea board—the shame of it making her eyes burn. Blast that man.

In the dreadful silence, she heard a scuffing sound and turned to watch as a soldier in a scarlet uniform broke past the wall of bystanders. He walked toward her, his steps unnaturally loud in the silence. “Thank you for waiting for me,” he called, his voice amused but apologetic, and loud enough to carry to the edge of the floor. “I’ve been looking forward to this set all evening." 

He bowed over her hand and whispered a command: “Chin up. Smile like you’re happy to see me.”

Beatrice squeezed this stranger’s fingers, feeling an immediate lightness. Her breath broke as she exhaled, but she was proud of her control. Her lips arranged themselves into the proper shape.

“Good show,” he commended, and the praise warmed her. “Captain Gracechurch, at your service. Your name, miss?”

BUY LINKS:

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Her Caprice

Keira Dominguez graduated from BYU with a B.A. in Humanities and lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and five children.

For the last decade, she has co-authored The Uncrushable Jersey Dress, a blog and Facebook page dedicated to mid-century author, Betty Neels. Cultivating this corner of fandom confirmed the suspicion that people who like sweet romances are as smart, funny, and are as interesting as readers of any other genre.

When Keira is not busy avoiding volunteerism at her kids’ schools like it is the literal plague, she enjoys scoring a deal at Goodwill, repainting her rooms an unnecessary amount of times, and being seized by sudden enthusiasms.

Take Tea with Keira -

website: keiradominguez.com

facebook: facebook.com/keiradominguez8/
twitter: @keira_dominguez

instagram: keiradominguezwrites

Keira Dominguez will be awarding $15 in Boroughs Bucks to 2 randomly drawn winners via rafflecopter during the tour.

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The Duke's Rose by Roxie Brandon

The Duke's Rose

The lovely Miss Hale is the governess to Eliza and Edmund, the children of the Duke of Cromwell. She is ready to love them as her own, but her biggest challenge will be their father. Since his wife died, he wants nothing to do with his children. 

Lady Isabella Ingram wants the Duke for selfish reasons and will do everything to manipulate him. Will the innocent Miss Hale win the Duke's heart?

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About Roxie Brandon

Roxie Brandon is an author of historical and contemporary romance. Her romances range in setting from Medieval times to the Twentieth Century.

She loves walks in the countryside and having afternoon tea with family and friends.

You're the Rogue That I Want (Rogues of Redmere) by Samantha Holt with #Giveaway

You’re the Rogue That I Want

Meet the Earl of Redmere in the 1st book in the Rogues of Redmere series, a brand new Regency romance series by #1 bestselling author Samantha Holt.

Red never shies away from a challenge.

Never.

But when Miss Hannah St. John strides into his life demanding—yes, demanding—he help her, he’s certain she’s more challenge than even he can handle.

Hannah is determined to transport an artifact from France—one that will change everything—even if it means working with a lawless man like Red. Nothing is more important than preserving history.

Nothing.

Not even the touch of a smuggler who inconceivably makes her stomach twist.

When it becomes clear the irritating bluestocking will do anything for this blasted artifact and needs saving from herself, the earl-turned-smuggler steps in.

Carting a cursed stone across the country with a know-it-all woman is not Red’s idea of fun, particularly when their journey runs far from smoothly…so why does he find himself enjoying her company just a little too much?

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Excerpt

“Excuse me,” she started but her voice came out like nothing more than a mouse’s squeak. She coughed and tried again. “Excuse me, are you Red?” 

His head jerked up. “Who wants to know?” 

She took another step closer and gasped. The firelight cleared the shadows around his features. She was not sure what she expected from an infamous smuggler but it was not this. Where were the pock marks? The scars? The missing teeth? 

There were no missing teeth to be sure. Though he kept his mouth in a firm line of disdain—or perhaps annoyance—the quick flash she had seen had revealed a mouth of perfectly healthy teeth. As for scars or pockmarks, his skin was perfect.

His light brown hair was, admittedly, a little too long and his face was unshaven, revealing several days of neglect. There were shadows around his eyes too, and he looked weary. However, that could not take away from that fact he was a handsome man. 

He stared at her expectantly. She gulped. “I need your help.” 

“And if I do not wish to give it?” 

She shook her head. Impossible. He had to help her. He was her only chance. She dragged out the chair opposite and sat. One dark brow rose at the action. Chin lifted, she propped her arms on the table and leaned forward. He smelled of the sea. 

“I need your help bringing across something from France. I’m told you are the man for the job.” 

“Then you were told wrong.” 

“I can pay handsomely.” 

“I don’t need coin.” 

“Do you not? I thought all smugglers did.” 

He leaned forward abruptly. “You need to watch your tongue, miss.” He glanced around. “Not everyone here is a friend.” 

She jerked back a little. Handsome he might be, but he was also intimidating. His strong jaw, finished with a slight dip that was just visible under the stubble, was set firmly. His eyes glinted in the firelight though she could not tell their color properly.

She took a breath and cast her gaze over him. It was something she was in the habit of doing. Study everything closely enough and any fear she might have of it left. It had worked with spiders. When one looked closely, one could see they were no more than a few legs and a body pieced together. Those long legs no longer appeared so terrifying once she had seen them under a microscope and appreciated the unique design of the creatures. 

It did not seem to quite work with this creature. His slightly creased forehead and the still lifted brow did not lose any of it sternness. His lips, she concluded, were generous for a man’s, but it did not soften his appearance. She pictured him in evening wear and that helped a little, though she could tell he would be ridiculously handsome and likely still no more polite.

“I was told you were the man to help me,” she said, aware of being a little breathless. 

“As I said, you were told wrong.”

About Samantha Holt

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Samantha lives in a small village in England with her twin girls and a dachshund called Duke. She enjoys writing historical romance involving chivalrous knights, hot highlanders and cravatted men. Writing is her (more than) full time job but on the rare occasion, she's not writing, she loves to visit the many stately homes and castles nearby.

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The Runner's Enticement (Men of Circumstance #2) by Addie Jo Ryleigh with giveaway!

Read an excerpt from The Runner's Enticement, and then enter to win a copy of The Duke's Temptation!

THE RUNNER'S ENTICEMENT

Men of Circumstance #2

Addie Jo Ryleigh

Released May 18th, 2016

Soul Mate Publishing

A Duke. A Runner. An Earl.
Three men, each born into different circumstances.
Each fighting to overcome their own adversity.
All striving to change their past. 

As much as Nathaniel Frederickson, bastard brother to the Duke of Wesbrook, loathes the status and consequence of his lowly birth, he has reinvented himself by becoming London’s leading Bow Street Runner. But no matter his success or his charm, he never seems to be good enough.

Lady Annabel Baines, self-professed bluestocking, has one goal in life. To create a legacy for her deceased mother by ensuring the success of her school for young ladies. Even if it means being beholden to a man intent on ruining her life, forcing her to make impossible, heartrending choices.

Assigned to recovering stolen artifacts, Nate is thrust into Anna’s privileged world. To make matters worse, he is forced to protect her from a mysterious threat she refuses to acknowledge. While fighting Anna’s stubbornness—and his unwanted fascination with the spoiled chit—Nate becomes the renewed target of a blackmailer thought to be destroyed . . . while a killer sets his sights on Anna.

Will the well-born bluestocking ultimately save the bastard Runner?

Read an excerpt:

His longer stride allowed him to reach her before she vanished into the shadows of the entry. Securing her elbow, he directed her to an empty room off to the left of the foyer. Time to remind Lady Annabel exactly who is in charge.

His quick maneuver only allowed for her to sputter in resistance. As soon as the door clicked shut, she yanked free and rounded on him. “How dare you mistreat me in such a way!”

The flash of fire in her eyes held him spellbound. Gone was the perfectly put together gentlewoman. In her place stood a wild and captivating woman. The kind of woman he would easily welcome into his bed.

At his silence she continued, “I should have you dismissed for your impertinence.”

With the return of the haughty noble, the spell was broken. The heat simmering in her glare would never melt the coldness born of the nobility.

His touch hadn’t been anywhere near brutish, but he recognized the meaning beneath her objection. “Forgive me, princess, for soiling your precious sleeve with my dirty hand.”

Given the narrowing of her eyes, she knew, as well as he, his hands were as clean as hers.

“I would never—”

He didn’t give her the chance to launch into a lecture. He’d brought her here for a purpose. “We need to set a few things straight.” He ignored her sharply indrawn breath. “Firstly, I’m not your lackey. You may have the rest of England on a tether but you’ll never have me. I’m here to do a job and I’m not about to let an overindulged, spoiled brat stand in my way.”

So much for being reasonable. There was just something about the petite Lady Annabel that provoked him beyond anything he’d experienced before. More than just her title stirred his blood. Even when faced with the most condescending members of the ton, Nate still managed to hold onto his dignity and poise.

The entire mission might be manageable if she understood he would be the one setting the course. Moreover, if there was a threat to her safety, her rushing headlong into a situation could get her hurt—or even killed.

“Secondly, I am not your lap dog. I won’t sit and stay on command. Or obediently follow where you lead. If you have somewhere you absolutely must be, you will inform me before we go gallivanting all over England. Your father hired me to do a job and dammit, I will do it the best way I know how. Which doesn’t include you dictating our every move. I am the professional, after all,” he tacked on for good measure.

Given her glowering expression, she’d comprehended every word. And had found issue with each one.

Oh, hell. She was about to become indignant. The last thing he needed was an overwrought silk-stocking who felt the world had wronged her. Why couldn’t Lawson have sent him to some corner of the country lacking the delicate sensibilities of the nobility? He’d have gone to Scotland if need be.

Just when Nate thought he had her pegged and was prepared for her vicious onslaught, she took a steady breath and her eyes cleared like a passing storm.

Her voice held complete calm when she answered, “Mr. Frederickson, since you found it within yourself to speak so . . . honestly . . . with me, I feel I should return the courtesy. First, I will concede you are the expert. My father wouldn’t have entrusted myself—or his collection—to anyone less than capable. However, I’m not about to set aside my freedoms on what we both know to be an overreaction on my father’s part.”

She paused while he remained silent. In all honesty, he wasn’t sure how to respond. In the last minute, she’d destroyed every expectation he had.

He didn’t get an opportunity to think on it as her eyes suddenly narrowed and pinned his boots to the floor. He felt like a wayward student who’d spoken out of turn. “I have never in my life treated someone as a lap dog. No matter if their arrogance demanded it. If you are looking for someone who has acted childish, Mr. Frederickson, I suggest you place yourself in an empty room and look in a mirror. Overindulged, spoiled brat indeed!” Her chest expanded with visible outrage as she finished chastising him.

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Addie Jo Ryleigh writes historical regency romances that feature rakish heroes and strong feisty heroines. Addie Jo lives in the same cold winter and hot summer area of Minnesota where she was born and raised. And frankly, wouldn’t live anywhere else. Sharing in the raising of her three extremely rambunctious boys is her very understanding husband that so graciously enabled her to fulfill her dream of writing. Keeping Addie Jo company while she writes (besides her wonderfully loud children) is her yorkipoo, Bella, who is never far from Addie Jo’s side.

Addie Jo has always had a love and passion for romance books and became engrossed in historical romance (particularly Regency) soon after graduating from Lurlene McDaniel’s young adult books. Currently, Addie Jo reads any genre that has a great emotional story that keeps her reading into the early hours of the morning.

Addie Jo has a bachelor degree in accounting and is a financial coordinator when not driving her children around central Minnesota, cuddled up with a good book, or writing her next story.

                                              

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