The Duke's Bargain Megan Walker book review

 

The Duke's Bargain

Megan Walker 

Ruined by scandal, Georgiana bargains with a duke to regain her place in Society. But their pretend friendship sparks real love, risking reputations, duty, and unexpected happily-ever-afters.

Eight months after a stolen kiss ruined her reputation, Miss Georgiana Wood is a recluse, cast out of Society without any hope of ever finding a suitable match. Longing for redemption, she never expects her salvation to arrive in the form of a handsome, temperamental duke.

After a failed bargain left the Duke of Marlow without a promised wife and heir, he must face courtship a final time. He plans to entice his future bride with a priceless family heirloom—one now in the possession of Miss Wood, who agrees to return it if he takes her on three outings in London during the Season to restore her reputation.

As the pair navigate Society’s expectations and whispered gossip, Marlow soon sees a new side to Georgiana—an ally and friend. Her wit and courage, grace and allure far exceed that of the eligible ladies he intended to court, and soon, he’d do almost anything to secure her happiness.

As Marlow wrestles with duty and desire, Georgiana begins to hope that she could be loved not despite her past, but because of who she truly is. When hearts are tested, truth and secrets revealed, will love be enough to risk it all?

 

 

My Review: 8/10

 

I should have known better than to try to "just read a chapter" of a Megan Walker book before bed. 40% of the way through the book and a LOT of lost sleep... but I couldn't really regret my choices because it's so good.

I did not remember the relationships and events of previous books (all of which I read when they came out) at all. It still worked as a standalone novel, but the characters (namely Georgiana) might have felt different if I had read them recently.

*Minor Spoilers*

That said, I liked that Georgiana was a different kind of character. Early on she thrills at the "verbal sparring" double talk of the ton and is enlivened by the challenge of being successful in society. This makes her seem like the perfect choice for a Duke's wife, refreshingly unique compared to the majority of heroines I read about in clean historical fiction (usually, they might be bluestockings and unnaturally modern, but they're always sweet, kind, genuine, etc.) and highly entertaining to read about.

She seemed to morph into someone else however. Someone who is wearied by everything the ton is and is really just a girl who loves to read in haystacks. Um. I wish she had stayed consistent.

Georgiana's morality came into question sometimes. This wasn't surprising and I wouldn't have minded if she had just owned what it was instead of dressing it up as something else (ie. "wining" an ex/innocent. She could be unapologetic about being cruel given that her loyalty was to Marlow. But I wouldn't call that being a good friend. A real friend brings out the best in you, inspires you to be better and rise higher. Doesn't sink you by association with pettiness and humiliation. This kind of thing would absolutely have been talked about in regards to Marlow's feelings and reputation, and I thought he wanted to preserve appearances...), or at least if other characters called her on it. It seemed like her explanation was accepted as reasonable or even touching. -_-

There were so many good one liners and so many sweet moments - I wish I could share all my highlights.

Mistakes are made, but they're always addressed super quickly and not given the time to develop into Big Misunderstandings which I APPRECIATED SO MUCH!

There were a few times when I felt like attitudes or situations did not fit the time period at all (like the Duchess telling her son to follow his heart. Erm, I feel like this would almost NEVER happen. That's a very modern and a very American attitude. People always want to point back to Jane Austen, but Mr. Darcy was just a Mr. and even he struggled with duty over his feelings and what was not an advantageous alliance. If you're dealing with the Ton, you're in a whole different ball game). But luckily for me, it did not affect my enjoyment of the story too much.

I can't wait to read more by Megan Walker.  

Whispers at Painswick Court Julie Klassen book review

 

Whispers at Painswick Court

Julie Klassen

Anne Loveday, a surgeon's daughter, is determined to live a single, useful life. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she accepts an invitation from an old friend to return to Painswick, the place she and her sister spent many happy summers until that last, fateful year.

Soon after arriving, Anne is asked to serve as sick-room nurse to Lady Celia, who forbade her nephew to marry Anne's sister years before. Pushing aside resentments, Anne moves into Painswick Court, a shadowy old house rumored to be haunted. Also in residence are Lady Celia's spinster daughter, her handsome adult nephews, and a secretive new lady's maid. Two local doctors visit regularly as well, one of whom admires Anne while concealing secrets of his own. As an escalating series of mishaps befalls her patient, Anne realizes someone is trying to kill the woman. But who? When Anne finds herself a suspect and her determination to avoid romance challenged, can she discover the real killer--and protect her heart--before it's too late?

Acclaimed Regency author Julie Klassen marries the best of historical romance and mystery in a novel full of English village charm, intrigue, and love.

 

 

My Review:  8/10

 

I always know I can expect quality with Julie Klassen. Her characters are layered, not simply good or bad. And the relationships can be understandably complicated, which makes for a more interesting read.

This one had gothic vibes, as we think there is a threat lurking. If you don’t want spoilers, stop here. It builds momentum slowly, but is worth it.



Spoilers -

There were minor and major mysteries. I guessed the culprit(s)/ situation before the reveal but not entirely from the beginning, but I wasn’t certain. Everyone was acting suspiciously.

Dalby and the Dr had the strongest motives (except Kat, but she also had the strongest deterrent). And they also acted the most *suspiciously.* At times I suspected Rosa because of her temper and feelings. It was a good red herring. Though I guessed the situation with her child very early on.

I was surprised by the deaths and saddened. And I appreciated the complex feelings the characters had about Dalby. Though in the end, I didn’t share them. He murdered someone who loved him, possibly the only stable adult in his life who had always been there for him, for a mystery (small) inheritance. He really must have been desperate. Seemed like he really didn’t try all that hard to find an alternative. I don’t know. I didn’t have sympathy for him.

I had tons of sympathy for Miss Lottie however. One of her best friends and romantic interest… a calculated killer. Vengeful. Oof. I can’t imagine the shock of it and the heartbreak.

The end was a little anticlimactic, the way they parted and came back together later. But I actually appreciated that from a messaging perspective. Realistically, she had some unfinished business to take care of.  

On Devonshire Shores A Seaview Christmas Julie Klassen book review

On Devonshire Shores

A Seaview Christmas

Julie Klassen 

With a promise to her youngest sister, Sarah Summers declares that this year's Christmas at Sea View will exceed all expectations. But the arrival of Callum Henshall--dashing Scottish widower and returning guest--blows a flurry of doubts into her mind. Sarah had discouraged his attentions before and is once again torn between attraction and duty. Yet even while she's busy managing the family's guest house, alluring thoughts of a second chance at love weave their way into her practical heart.

Meanwhile, seventeen-year-old Georgiana eagerly anticipates the exciting Christmas of her dreams after last year's dull, disappointing holiday filled with endless chores. She enjoys all the promised parties, music, and dancing, but is taken by surprise when young love comes knocking. Does the festive romance of a Sea View Christmas hold the key to a happily-ever-after for both sisters?

Return to Sidmouth for this highly anticipated holiday companion novella to the Summers sisters' lives and loves on the charming Devonshire shore.

 

 

My Review: 8/10

 Much of Sarah and Callum's strory had already been told (though his immediate return to her when he learned he'd missed their visit was just the sweetest). I appreciated his patient pursuing and I agreed with him that Sarah's wavering was tiring. But I also understood why she did. Why she felt like she couldn't leave. I kept waiting for something in her circumstances to change, while side eyeing the story because life doesn't often work that way. Instead I was pleasantly surprised by the support and advice and hard truths Sarah got from her sisters: there's always going to be -something- in the way, something needing doing, someone needing help. The change had to come from Sarah. She had to decide to step out in faith, without the answers, and change her priorities.

I'm so glad Sarah got her story. But I'll be honest- I was more invested in Georgiana's. And she only got a fraction of the screen time, so to speak. 

A spark here and there, but it seemed the be the efforts of a frenemy who didn't want Collin unless she was literally taking him away from Georgiana, that made them really appreciate one another with new eyes. It was JUST getting good when they parted for 3-6 months with light teasing/the hint of interest in one another. And that's it. That's the end of the book, the end of the series. I feel like Georgiana (and the readers) got the shaft.

Apart from my disappointment there, I am so sad this series is at an end. I loved these sisters, their home, and their community. It has been a warm cup of tea for my soul.

And this book was an excellent christmastime read. All the fun historical elements, plenty of cheer, and the sweetness of two love stories unfolding.

If You’ll Have Me Esther Hatch book review

 

If You’ll Have Me

Esther Hatch

A lady desperately seeking freedom. A prosperous younger man. An unexpected connection.

Anna Atwood returns to Breckenridge, where she spent one blissful summer as a young woman. This time, though, she comes to the quaint town as a penniless spinster with a single hope: to build a life free from the constraints her father’s death put on her and free from the persistent suitor Mr. Green, whose plans for marriage are Anna’s worst nightmare. When she runs into David Tate, the boy she knew from that memorable summer, she finds he has grown into a confident and striking man. As they rekindle their friendship, David offers her warmth and protection in the moment she needs it most—when Mr. Green appears in town and threatens to destroy Anna’s carefully laid plans.

David Tate remembers Anna as the spirited woman who once brought light into his dark childhood. Now a man of means, he has a promising future, if he can withstand the powerful Lord Murphy—a man whose menacing hold on the town he owns is surpassed only by his relentless hold on David’s life. When David meets Anna again, he realizes he has a chance to save her from Mr. Green’s schemes, even if it means putting David in danger of Lord Murphy’s wrath and revealing David’s deepest secrets.

In a moment of desperation, David and Anna agree to a proposal of convenience to provide the safety they both need. But as their attraction ignites, the looming dangers from Lord Murphy and Mr. Green threaten to destroy their budding happiness.

 

 

 

My Review: 8/10

Possibly the best thing about this book is how realistically the characters behave. What a breath of fresh air. And I love how forthright they can be, speaking plainly, even if it's with self-interest in mind. 

And I loved that characters were layered. Anna's mother, for example, initially shows as a weak, selfish woman. And she is true to that facet of her character, in the way she pushes her daughter. But even she has growth through the course of the story, prompting a few moments and lines that made me want to stand up and clap. 

There was so much humor, the barriers made sense, and the characters' inner thoughts were understandable. All the right ingredients for a great story. All was going swimmingly until about 80% of the way. 

SPOILERS

*

*

I don't know how Anna didn't recognize burn marks for what they were. Seems like common sense, which made it feel like she was being dumbed down, and I HATE that. Also, honestly, I was frustrated by the amount of secrets still between them at this point in the story. Most of them should have been obvious to Anna, and it seemed like she was being kept in the dark and given a heavy dose of naivete in order to drag the plot out. I felt like it was clear how it would ultimately play out, but it was a slow and painful process with only drops of joy that didn't do nearly  enough to counteract my frustration with her ignorance. 
* 

*

I wish my highlights and notes were connected through kindle so that I could give examples. But alas.


That said, I really enjoyed *most* of this book. It was the best Esther Hatch I've read in years (historically, she's been a favorite of mine, but I've had some major issues with her recent works) , which makes me really excited for future books. 

The Gentleman's Confession Anneka R. Walker book review

 

Matchmaking Mamas #3

The Gentleman's Confession

Anneka R. Walker

Inexperienced in love, Jemma seeks help from her best friend, Miles, unaware that he has secretly loved her for years.

Brookeside, England, 1822

Jemma Fielding has always considered herself an independent woman, but to honor her beloved grandmother’s dying wish, she makes a promise that she will marry and fall in love. To fulfill her promise, she turns to the Matchmaking Mamas Society for assistance and is paired with the charming Mr. Bentley. Though he is everything Jemma could hope for in a match, she is clueless about how to win his heart. Desperate to make a good impression, she seeks guidance from her dearest friend, Miles Jackson, a humble rector with a talent for understanding matters of the heart.

However, Miles’s secret affection for Jemma has spanned years, and teaching her to love someone else threatens to betray his own heart. Trapped by his own selfless nature, Miles fears he will never be more than a humble rector in her eyes.

Even as he gives Jemma lessons in love, Miles grapples with the challenge of convincing her that Mr. Bentley may be a perfect gentleman but he is not the perfect match for her. Will Miles’s advice in romance jeopardize their years of friendship, or will it reveal the attraction that has quietly blossomed between them, proving that this time, the Matchmaking Mamas may have made a mistake? Miles must decide if he’s brave enough to confess his feelings to Jemma before she is whisked away forever.

 

 

 

My Review: 9/10

 

 I couldn’t put it down. A good blend of humor and swoony sweetness, it was *almost* perfect.

SPOILERS

My issues were twofold
- did not like the kissing of an unconscious woman and the “scandal” that ensued.

- did not like that Lisette got a love story in the margins that made everything easy for our two MCs. I’ve seen this ploy used countless times, but I think it’s lazy and unrealistic (rare). I think it would have been more real and relatable if Lisette stepped aside (bc what other choice would she have) without having an alternate plan and Miles and Jemma chose each other come what may. Then Lisette could have had a proper story of her own (which she totally deserved) and the time to grieve and heal and grow.

That said, my feelings on these matters were not enough to sour my enjoyment of this story. Can’t wait for Ian’s turn, it looks like it’s going to be a good one.

A Proper Façade Esther Hatch book review

A Proper Façade

Esther Hatch 

 

 

 

 My review: 4/10

 I should start by saying Esther Hatch is one of my favorite authors in this genre, so it pains me to rate it so low. This comes on the heels of having just read the extended version/rewrite of There Goes The Groom. I noticed some similar things.

SPOILERS

The whole premise of the book is that Nicholas is a very physical, passionate man who made a devastating mistake at 17, so now he keeps those passions firmly bridled. Lady Mercy is chosen as his bride for practical reasons (which were quite flimsy). She wants a love match - strike that - a passion match, because everyone around her has had them, and successful ones at that. She doesn't believe Nicholas is capable of passion, at least toward her, so she is determined to break him or foist him off on someone else. That's it. The entire book. There is a -very- little bit thrown in about the starving Irish, which is supposed to testify that these characters have substance and morals and will fight for a cause. But really, it's only about passion.

Because Nicholas and Mercy spend the entire book pushing each other away, there was very little conversation or charm, very few opportunities for humor or connection. So I did not connect with them with either.

I found Nicholas' obsession with Mercy's skin and freckles weird and his constant struggle with general lust painful to read. Mercy was not any better. She's naive, shallow, and reckless, taking strangers into her confidence and setting up compromising situations for OTHER PEOPLE nonstop, instead of just facing her problems with intelligence and grace. She does eventually realize she was foolish (about 75% of the way through the book), but it is too little, too late, in my opinion. And then, she pushes him away -because- she loves him. -_-

I did appreciate that Nicholas had learned propriety, respect and integrity the hard way. But Mercy was determined to break him of all that when it came to her, as if that proved something. Terribly disappointing and an awful message to send. It felt very similar to the situation in There Goes The Groom. I don't like this theme the author appears stuck on, of finding rare men who are strong in their convictions and destroying it in the name of "love" and passion.

So on the whole, I found this story and characters lacking in substance. Would make a lethal drinking game ("passion"). I couldn't recommend this book, but I am not ready to give up on this author yet.  I will eagerly await her next novel, hoping for a return to the humor and wit that made her stories so great.

The Lady Glass by Anneka R. Walker book review

The Lady Glass

Anneka R. Walker

Nothing shapes glass like fire.

Theresia Dvorak has nothing left of her parents—nothing save her dowry, a priceless crystal vase stolen and sold by her own stepmother. Theresia will do anything to secure what is rightfully hers—even assume a false identity and steal her future back. When she gains entrance to a house party and has a memorable run-in with the handsome naval captain Rolland Reese, her mission is compromised. She swore never to trust an Englishman again, but when he makes a daring proposal she cannot refuse, she must work side by side with him if either of them is to achieve their aim.

Rolland is stunned when his homecoming from the war takes a decidedly deadly turn. The quickest solution is to throw a house party and invite all the suspects. With the stakes incredibly high, Rolland must root out the killer before they turn their sights to the next potential victim: his own father. The mysterious Theresia is undoubtedly the most suspicious of his guests, but against all odds, he finds himself risking everything to protect her. As Rolland unravels a tangle of clues, he faces the greatest threats of all: a heart of fire and a future as fragile as glass.

 

 

 

My Review: 6/10

I am always excited when I see a new book by Anneka Walker. I enjoy fairy tale retellings and Cinderella is my favorite, so I was really looking forward to this one.

The romance was up and down for me
- it started well, quickly became an insta love connection and eventually finished strong. it was a bit much to go from virtual strangers (while he’s on the lookout for a murderer no less) to being so obsessed and possessive of one another. Honestly, that’s usually the best part - the initial spark of interest and watching it grow. We seem to have skipped it entirely.

The catalyst appeared to be the visit to the fortune teller, which I wasn’t a fan of either. Christians are warned against engaging in such things and it was just casually slipped in and seemingly used to take things from 0-60 in 5 seconds with our two MCs.

Theresia fits right in with and is thoroughly embraced by Tansy and Andalin. This bothers me because 1) none of them seem to have any flaws 2) they are nothing like the ton / what society values at that time which 3) makes them all feel kind of cookie cutter- ish. To be fair, I have this similar complaint with a lot of fairy tale retellings (too perfect), so it could just be sticking to the style. And 4) it feels like another kind of insta love. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like people are slower to connect and bond, to embrace and trust. No one is skeptical or jealous or just shy. No, the women see and determine they are smitten and meant to be so they just embrace her like family. I can’t relate to this, and certainly not over and over again. (Tandy, andalin, his mother, etc).

I liked the “godfather” - his history, how he was worked in, his role.

It was an interesting backdrop. I loved the attention to historical detail. I liked the murder mystery spin (she got me)! It was a good blend of familiar story elements and fresh, creative (Cinderella) ideas.

Highcliffe House by Megan Walker - book review

 

Highcliffe House

Megan Walker

Love ignites when two rivals vie to secure a possible fortune at the seaside town of Brighton.

Brighton, England, 1813

When a romantic entanglement leaves her humiliated and reeling, Anna Lane wants nothing more than for her father to whisk her away from the gossip of the ton. Unfortunately, he has obligations elsewhere, leaving her stuck in London.

Graham Everett’s financial security depends on an investment with Mr. Lane, his long-time friend and business partner. He’ll do just about anything to secure it for his family, even if it means fighting spoiled, embittered Anna for her father’s attention.

Luckily, Mr. Lane concocts a plan that will give everyone what they wat, with one stipulation: Anna must accompany Graham to Brighton in her father’s stead and make a decision to invest—or not—based on a thorough report.

But it will take more than a day at the beach for these two headstrong hearts to admit that they’ve been wrong about each other. If they are willing to invest a little time working out their differences, they might have a chance at real love.

 

 

My Review: 9/10

Oh I loved this book. I loved anna and graham, individually and together. My heart broke for anna early on. And then graham. I felt loyal to them both. This book had me laughing as often as it had me sighing and wincing - it felt like I’d highlighted/reacted to/noted and bookmarked every other page. Megan Walker gets every emotion exactly right, and it’s so exquisitely written that I can’t wait to go back and experience it again.

 

Kneaders Bakery & Cafe: A Celebration of Our Best Recipes and Memories Colleen Worthington - book review

Kneaders Bakery & Cafe: A Celebration of Our Best Recipes and Memories

Colleen Worthington

The story of Kneaders Bakery and Cafe began with Colleen and Gary Worthington baking traditional European bread in their kitchen. After mastering old-world bread-baking techniques and testing countless recipes, Colleen, Gary, and their growing team of bakers moved onto their signature artisan bread.

But bread is just the beginning. Kneaders is well-known for their mouth-watering soups, sandwiches, and breakfast as well as their delectable pies, cakes, and pastries. For the first time, home cooks have access to popular recipes such as Overnight Chunky Cinnamon French Toast, Artichoke Portobello Soup, and Blueberry Sour Cream Pie. Beautiful and appetizing photos accompany each recipe.

What began in Colleen Worthington’s kitchen a little more than twenty-five years ago has grown into a successful family-owned bakery and cafe business with time-tested, delicious recipes gathered in this one-of-a-kind cookbook.

 

 

 

 

 

My Review: 8/10 

 I had never heard of this company (being an east coaster) before this book, but requested an ARC of it when I saw it on one of my favorite publisher's list; I'm always looking for delicious new recipes.

I always enjoy learning the personal stories that go along with recipes. If you're familiar with Kneaders, you'll probably enjoy the personal anecdotes and spotlights on key people even more.

I'm excited about the collection of recipes. So far, I've tried two (wedding soup was my favorite so far), both delicious, both crowd pleasers in my home. I also really liked that there are practical tips with most every recipe. I feel like I've bookmarked half the book and I can't wait to try out more - most especially breads and desserts!

On Devonshire Shores #2 A Winter by the Sea Julie Klassen book review

On Devonshire Shores #2

A Winter by the Sea

Julie Klassen

When the Duke and Duchess of Kent rent neighboring Woolbrook Cottage for the winter, the Summers sisters are called upon to host three of the royal couple's male staff in their seaside house. But they soon realize they've invited mysterious secrets and the sweet possibility of romance into their home.

Meanwhile, Emily Summers approaches a local publisher in hopes of fulfilling her dream of becoming an author. When he turns her down, his dashing competitor promises to consider her novel if she will first write a new Sidmouth guidebook for him. Emily accepts and begins researching with the help of the Duke of Kent's handsome private secretary. But a surprise visitor from her past shows up at Sea View, leaving Emily torn between the desires she used to hold dear and her budding dreams for the future.

Return to the Devonshire coast with the Summers sisters, where loyalties are tested, secrets come to light, and new love emerges.

 

 

 

My Review: 7/10 

This is the second book in the series and it is not a stand alone novel. It was very slow going for me until about half way through when it suddenly became a page turner and caused me to make some very bad decisions. You have been forewarned.

Emily takes center stage in this book. I enjoy this story of sisters, their daily life and relatable challenges and feelings. The historical aspects were very interesting, though sad. 

 

Some of Sarah's choices (*cough* following a man suspected of dangerous activity *cough*) were not bright and that frustrates me as a reader. I hate seeing intelligent women get themselves into totally avoidable life threatening situations because they pranced blindly (or stubbornly etc) into it. I could have done without that scene. Luckily it's the exception, not the rule here.

*SPOILERS*

I loved what Emily ultimately based her choice on - love for her sister. Though I thoroughly agreed with Viola that they were so poorly matched in a number of major ways that I didn't even think it needed to come to that. But I loved that Claire was such a high priority there. I hope we get a redemption story for her.