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Review: The Devil of Downtown

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Review: The Devil of DowntownThe Devil of Downtown (Uptown Girls, #3) by Joanna Shupe
Series: Uptown Girl #3
Published by Avon on June 30, 2020
Genres: Historical
Goodreads
three-stars

FINAL DECISION: I’ve read this book before, and it has much better versions. It feels like it was cribbed from prior authors who pioneered the romance series. The book has some good moments but lacks emotion and depth in the characters and it left me cold.

THE STORY: The story centers on two main characters: Jack Mulligan, a self-made man who has risen from a difficult childhood on the Bowery to become a powerful figure in Manhattan’s underworld, and Justine Greene, an upper-class woman dedicated to social causes such as workers’ rights and holding negligent husbands accountable. The story examines the clash and eventual alignment of their worlds as they form an alliance that evolves into a romantic relationship.

OPINION: THE DEVIL OF DOWNTOWN presents an intriguing premise set against the backdrop of Gilded Age New York. The contrast between Jack Mulligan, a self-made criminal kingpin, and Justine Greene, an upper-class social reformer, initially promises a compelling exploration of class dynamics and unexpected romance. The historical setting and the clash of worlds between the protagonists set up what could have been a riveting narrative.

However, the execution falls short of its potential. The romance between Jack and Justine develops too rapidly, lacking the gradual build-up and tension that make such unlikely pairings captivating. Justine’s character, in particular, suffers from a lack of meaningful growth throughout the story. Her initial passion for social causes doesn’t evolve or deepen in ways that feel authentic or engaging, leaving her character feeling somewhat flat and predictable.

While the book does have its moments, particularly in its depiction of 19th-century New York and some of the social issues of the time, it ultimately fails to deliver the emotional depth and character complexity that the premise suggests. The narrative often feels formulaic, echoing plot points and character dynamics that readers of historical romance may find overly familiar. This sense of déjà vu detracts from the originality of the setting and initial concept.

WORTH MENTIONING: I suggest reading DREAMING OF YOU by Lisa Kleypas instead. Much better book.

CONNECTED BOOKS: THE DEVIL OF DOWNTOWN is the third book in the Uptown Grils series. This book can be read as a standalone. The couples for the prior books appear, but everything the reader needs to know is explained here. I haven’t read the other books in the series and didn’t need to.

STAR RATING: I give this book 3 stars.

three-stars

Review: A Grave Robbery

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Review: A Grave RobberyA Grave Robbery (Veronica Speedwell, #9) by Deanna Raybourn
Series: Veronica Speedwell #9
Published by Berkley on March 12, 2024
Genres: Historical, Mystery
Pages: 336
Goodreads
four-stars

FINAL DECISION: The story dragged more than others in the series, and I was not as engaged with this one as much, but it is still enjoyable overall. It is a little disappointing based on the high standards for the series.

THE STORY: Veronica and Stoker are faced with a new mystery when their patron, Lord Rosemorran, purchases a wax figure of a woman and asks for a clockwork mechanism to be incorporated to create a breathing “Sleeping Beauty” figure for his daughter. Stoker and Veronica, however, discover that “Sleeping Beauty” is actually the preserved body of a real person. This sends the duo on a quest to determine who the woman was and what happened to her.

OPINION: The book started off strong. The mystery of the wax figure was creepy, and Veronica and Stoker’s reaction was well-set. As the story progressed, however, I found myself less interested in the characters involved in the identity of the dead woman. Everything felt too removed from the actual possible crimes in this case. The entire case felt too intellectual and less personal to anyone. The story worked out, but it felt clinical, and I really didn’t feel that there was anything about the story that I needed to turn the page quickly to find out. It felt more remote than the usual Veronica Speedwell story. This might be my least favorite of the series, but I still love Veronica and Stoker and the other recurring characters in the series.

WORTH MENTIONING: The book has strong Frankenstein vibes.

CONNECTED BOOKS: A GRAVE ROBBERY is the ninth book in the Veronica Speedwell series. This book’s mystery is self-contained, and the book can be read on its own. It is true, however, that there are ongoing relationships that develop over the life of the series and thus it is better, but not necessary, to read the series in order.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.

four-stars

My Season of Scandal

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My Season of ScandalMy Season of Scandal (The Palace of Rogues, #7) by Julie Anne Long
Series: The Palace of Rogues #7
Published by Avon Books on April 23, 2024
Genres: Historical
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: A captivating and emotionally charged tale of an unlikely love between a world-weary man and an innocent country girl. Long’s signature wit, lyrical prose, and masterful relationship-building are on full display in this seventh installment of the Palace of Rogues series.

THE STORY: Catherine Keating arrives in London for her first season, determined to find a suitable husband. However, the glittering ballrooms and societal expectations prove more daunting than she anticipated. When a chance encounter leads her to the Grand Palace on the Thames, Catherine finds herself drawn to the enigmatic Lord Dominic Kirke, a man known for his fiery speeches in Parliament and his ability to captivate any woman he chooses. As they navigate the season together, attending balls and sharing secret moments, Catherine and Dominic discover a connection that goes beyond mere attraction. But with Dominic’s tragic past and Catherine’s innocence, their love seems doomed from the start. Dominic must decide whether to protect his battered heart or risk everything for the woman who has captured it so completely.

OPINION: Once again, Julie Anne Long has crafted a delightful romance in returning to the Grand Palace on the Thames. The pairing of an older, cynical man and a young, optimistic woman is an unlikely combination that surprises even the characters themselves. Long’s incredible use of language elevates the story, while cameos from beloved characters add depth and continuity to the series.

The emotional journey between Catherine and Dominic is the heart of this book. Their conversations are emotionally resonant, allowing them to understand each other on a profound level. The love they share brings out the best in both of them, a testament to Long’s skill in building relationships. The “tragic past” trope is handled with a fresh perspective, making Dominic’s story compelling and relatable.

The yearning and angst between Catherine and Dominic is palpable, creating a delicious tension that keeps the pages turning. Their secret meetings and desperate attempts to resist their feelings only heighten the slow-burn romance. Watching them navigate their big, scary feelings and put each other’s hearts back together is a beautiful and rewarding experience.

Dominic, usually so eloquent in Parliament, finds himself tongue-tied and baffled by Catherine, who slips under his defenses like water through a leak. Catherine, in turn, refuses to let Dominic hide away from his pain and hurt. The result is a love story that is both tender and passionate, with a satisfying ending that will leave readers sighing with contentment.

WORTH MENTIONING: The secret alcove run-ins and rendezvous add a delightful touch of forbidden romance to the story.

CONNECTED BOOKS: MY SEASON OF SCANDAL is the seventh book in the Palace of Rogues series. While the romance stands alone, reading the series in order provides a richer experience and allows readers to fully appreciate the cameos and connections to previous characters.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

five-stars

Review: Knockout

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Review: KnockoutKnockout (Hell's Belles, #3) by Sarah MacLean
Series: Hell's Belles #3
Published by Avon on August 22, 2023
Genres: Historical
Pages: 384
Goodreads

FINAL DECISION: Barely got through this one. The most disappointing book yet because it could have been good but does nothing to develop character or relationship. Feels like it’s written to hit hashtags.

THE STORY: Lady Imogen Loveless is a woman known for her unconventional ideas and love of experiments. Society doesn’t know that she’s part of a group of vigilantes called the Hell’s Belles. A determined detective, Thomas Peck sees beyond her quirks and is asked to guard her by her family. Reluctantly, he gets involved in her world of secrets and passion, and they are both drawn into a fiery romance. When Imogen’s brother decides it is time for Imogen to marry, the Hell’s Belles plot to use those circumstances for their own ends.

OPINION: Unfortunately MacLean’s writing keeps getting worse. This one had a good story somewhere in it, but everything feels cheap and designed to rely on mere tropes — just read the descriptions. Curvy heroine, one bed, girl gang, banter, police misconduct, patriarchy, bodyguard, cross-class. This book is a caricature of a romance where the story hinges only on hitting predetermined beats. Nothing feels like it evolves from the character’s depth. Nothing feels historical. Instead, it feels like someone put up a bunch of romance tropes and then hooked the scenes together. I really wanted to like this book, and at times, I liked the interaction between the women, but Thomas was dull and boring, and I really didn’t care about the relationship between him and Imogen. I didn’t care about Imogen either. Barely made it through this one, and only because I had committed to read it with someone else. I can’t believe this is the same writer who wrote Nine Rules to Break. Pity.  It seems like after her last couple of series, which have progressively gotten worse, she’s not an auto-buy anymore.

This book could have been set in the year 2023 instead of the 1800s, and almost nothing would have to change. Lisa Kleypas can write a historical that has characters with feminist sensibilities and ground the book in something real and interesting. This book just feels like ChatGPT put a modern story in the past.

WORTH MENTIONING: Appearances by characters from the Bareknuckled Bastards series.

CONNECTED BOOKS: KNOCKOUT is the third book in the Hell’s Belles series. The romance here is self-contained; thus, this book can be read as a standalone. However, there are overlapping characters that readers are expected to know.

STAR RATING: I give this book 2 stars.

Review: Not That Duke

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I received this book for free from Netgalley in order to prepare an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


Review: Not That DukeNot That Duke (Would-Be Wallflowers, #3) by Eloisa James
Published by Avon on July 25, 2023
Genres: Historical
Pages: 384
Goodreads
four-stars

FINAL DECISION: Very enjoyable story. Two decent people who get things mixed up, which causes difficulties in their relationship. Stella’s insecurities and Silvester’s desire to appear perfect create difficulties for this couple, who are so obviously perfect for one another from the start.

THE STORY: Lady Stella Corsham knows that Silvester Parnell, Duke of Huntington, is not for her — even as she can’t keep her eyes away from him. Stella knows that Silvester is in love with the beautiful Yasmin, and Stella, who is freckled, a redhead, wears glasses, and has a curvy figure that is not fashionable, doesn’t believe she can compare. Silvester likes Stella, who is eccentric and intellectual, but is determined to win the hand of Yasmin, even against his friend Giles, but cannot stop thinking about Stella and wonder what she will do or say next.

OPINION: I generally don’t like romance triangles, but I never felt that Silvester “loved” Yasmin. He was always more engaged with Stella, even as he kept insisting that he was going to win Yasmin’s hand. He was more intellectually and physically attracted to Stella. Their interactions were sweet and funny.

Indeed, they are so obviously perfect for one another that the conflict comes from the fact that Silvester pursued Yasmin first. The first half of the book sets up that conflict with readers seeing how Stella’s insecurities are based on her experience and how much she is devastated by Silverster choosing Yasmin.

Stella’s distress in this book about all the ways she is “not” is sometimes hard to read. Her pain was intensely real and understandable. I did love that other women in her life were determined to show Stella that she had value even if she didn’t fit in with the shallow societal standards.

I do love a good “married couple needs to build a relationship” book. The book so clearly demonstrates that mere desire is not enough, and Silvester and Stella learn to communicate their needs and weaknesses with one another. I thought their connection was wonderful as they really see one another’s needs, strengths, and weaknesses.

WORTH MENTIONING: This book is broken into two parts. In the first part, Silvester is pursuing Yasmin. After the transition, Yasmin and Giles are married, and Silvester’s attention finally turns to Stella one hundred percent.

CONNECTED BOOKS: NOT THAT DUKE is the third book in the Would-Be-Wallflowers series. This book overlaps with the events in the prior book THE RELUCTANT COUNTESS, and therefore there are spoilers for that book. It is not necessary to read that book first, but this book is so much better if you have read it.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.

NOTE; I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.

four-stars

Review: How to Tame a Wild Rogue

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I received this book for free from Netgalley in order to prepare an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


Review: How to Tame a Wild RogueHow to Tame a Wild Rogue (The Palace of Rogues, #6) by Julie Anne Long
Series: The Palace of Rogues #6
Published by Avon on July 25, 2023
Genres: Historical
Pages: 384
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: My favorite book of the series! This is an amazing book that leverages the relationships the series has already developed into a wonderful story of two people who meet by chance, pretend to be married, learn about one another, and fall in love.

THE STORY: On a dark and stormy night, Lorcan St. Leger walks through the London dock areas as a man who has accomplished so much. He managed to raise himself from the slums of St. Giles to become a privateer for the Crown (with some questionable choices along the way), and things seem to be going well. Until he spies a woman climbing out of a window and dangling in the air. That is how St. Leger meets Lady Daphne Worth. Daphne is as desperate as St. Leger is self-satisfied. Forced to take employment due to her family’s reversal of fortune, Daphne had to save herself from assault. When a major storm forces Daphne and St. Leger to take refuge at Grand Palace on the Thames, the two masquerade as a married couple to get a room. It turns out the owners of the Grand Palace are not strangers to either Daphne or St. Leger, which makes their fake marriage even more complicated.

OPINION: I loved this book. It has some great tropes, including forced proximity. So much of the story takes place within the rooms that Daphne and Lorcan rent at the Grand Palace. I’m a sucker for two characters who can talk their way through the book. But don’t be fooled, this book is hot. Nothing is better than sexy talk that just explodes on the page by the end of the slow burn.

I liked these characters. Both Daphne and Lorcan have depth and are just decent people. The story avoids all the cliches and easy answers that I expected in the story. Relationships are messy and complicated, and this book doesn’t shy away from that messiness, whether it be romance, family, or friendships.

Daphne is a woman who has taken on so much burden of caring for her family. No one has taken care of her, and Lorcan, who could have been only concerned with himself, always has a community behind him, whether it be the slums of St. Giles or his crew, always looks out for others even while he tells himself another story of his life. Her strength allowed me to believe the circumstances that surround this book. Daphne is not sheltered even though she has pockets of innocence and naivety. Lorcan is a man who needs to care for others, and his encounter with Daphne gives him something to care about even while he fights those instincts. The decency of these characters and the avoidance of the obvious romantic situations kept me engaged in the book. I was rooting for these two on every page of the book.

While the story takes place primarily within the walls of the Grand Palace, the vibrant community that has been built throughout the series blossoms in this book. The arrival of Daphne and Lorcan causes (or exposes) problems in the household. This book felt so vibrant with all the relationships shifting and being renewed.

I think this is the best book in the series, but it relies upon all the previous books to have so much depth. There is one night in the book that might be the funniest sequence I’ve read in one of Long’s books. It felt like an old sitcom or a 1940s movie comedy. I don’t want to give anything away because it is structured so well, but I loved the entire evening, which was funny but also served as an important catalyst in the book.

We get to see a lot of the people in the Grand Palace, which I really enjoyed because I do love the characters, and I like to see how the Grand Palace is changing and how these people are growing together.

I can’t say enough about this book, and it is definitely my favorite book of the year so far. My last note is that his book has a perfect epilogue that left me feeling so happy about the book.

WORTH MENTIONING: Who knew that spillikins could be so sexy?

CONNECTED BOOKS: HOW TO TAME A WILD ROGUE is the sixth book in the Palace of Rogues series. The romance here is self-contained and thus can be read as a standalone; however, the other characters matter in this book, and a richer experience awaits those who read the series in order.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 enthusiastic stars.

NOTE: I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.

five-stars

Review: The Notorious Lord Knightly

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Review: The Notorious Lord KnightlyThe Notorious Lord Knightly (The Chessmen: Masters of Seduction, #2) by Lorraine Heath
Series: The Chessmen: Masters of Seduction #2
Published by Avon on June 27, 2023
Genres: Historical
Goodreads

FINAL DECISION: This book is a second-chance romance with emotional depth. Lorraine Heath skillfully weaves a tale of love, regret, and redemption. While not without its flaws, the book offers an enjoyable reading experience.

THE STORY: In the midst of London society, an anonymous author releases a book that ignites widespread speculation about the true identity of the notorious “Lord K.” The Earl of Knightly, revered by the ton, becomes the primary suspect in being the enigmatic Lord K, causing Miss Regina Leyland’s world to crumble once again. Having been left heartbroken when Knightly abandoned her at the altar, Regan hoped never to speak with Knightly again, but this book brings him back into her orbit. Knightly, consumed by fury at finding himself at the center of scandal and gossip, confronts Regina, suspecting her as the author behind the book. However, as he delves deeper, he discovers that Regina has undergone a profound transformation. No longer the naive woman he once knew, she has become a strong and independent individual who refuses to be submissive to any man. Knightly and Regina find themselves caught in a whirlwind of genuine emotions and intense passion that resurfaces between them. Each has secrets that, when revealed, threaten any potential for a new relationship between them.

OPINION: This book presents an engaging tale of second-chance romance within the backdrop of scandal and society in London. The story explores the complicated history of Regina and Knightly and the consequences of a scandalous book written by Regina herself.

The chemistry between Knightly and Regina is evident throughout the book, and the narrative effectively switches between past and present, offering glimpses into their previous relationship and their current reconnection. These flashbacks provide valuable insights into their deep love and the pain Regina experienced when Knightly abandoned her at the altar. The author succeeds in revealing Knightly’s motivations, adding depth to his character and portraying his regrets with authenticity.

Knightly, as a tortured hero, evokes sympathy from readers. He endures Regina’s anger and acknowledges his wrongdoing, making his redemption journey all the more compelling. Regina, too, is a strong and multifaceted heroine, torn between her love for Knightly and her lingering resentment. The emotional tension between them adds layers to their evolving relationship.

The novel shines in its portrayal of Knightly and Regina’s interactions. Knightly’s realization of his mistakes and his determination to make amends create moments of emotional intensity. The characters’ hidden secrets, if shared, would reveal the vulnerable aspects of their hearts, heightening the stakes of their relationship. The gradual development of their romance is skillfully executed, culminating in a satisfying conclusion.

The seamless transitions between past and present contribute to the narrative’s effectiveness, allowing readers to fully understand the depth of Knightly and Regina’s connection. The structure maintains good pacing, propelling the plot forward and keeping the reader engaged.

In the midst of its strengths, I personally found some aspects of this book to be unsatisfying. One particular issue was the handling of Regina’s secret and the continued decisions of the characters to withhold crucial information from each other. This pattern of deception throughout the story became increasingly frustrating and strained believability at times. Moreover, while the book delves into Knightly’s reasons for breaking Regina’s heart, I personally struggled to fully connect with or accept his motivations, which diminished my overall enjoyment of the story.

WORTH MENTIONING: There are a few appearances by characters from prior Heath books which are enjoyable for fans of the Heath-verse, but don’t distract from the story for new readers.

CONNECTED BOOKS: THE NOTORIOUS LORD KNIGHTLY is the second book in the Chessmen: Masters of Seduction series. This book can be read as a standalone, and it is not necessary to read the first book in the series to appreciate this one.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.

NOTE: I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley in order to prepare this review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.

Review: The Heiress Bride

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I received this book for free from Netgalley in order to prepare an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


Review: The Heiress BrideThe Heiress Bride (A Duke's Heiress, #3) by Madeline Hunter
Series: A Duke's Heiress #3
Published by Zebra on May 23, 2023
Genres: Historical
Pages: 318
Goodreads
four-half-stars

FINAL DECISION: This is a delightful historical romance. Nicholas and Iris’s relationship crackles with flirtation and intense chemistry. The story concludes satisfactorily, but I wanted more time for the couples to savor their happy endings at the end of the series. Still, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable and engaging read.

THE STORY: In the final installment of the trilogy, “The Duke’s Mysterious Heiress,” Nicholas Radnor finds himself in a precarious situation as the new Duke of Hollinburgh. Despite his handsome appearance and charm, Nicholas is burdened with financial difficulties due to his land-poor status. More difficulties arise when Iris Barrington, the last of the three enigmatic women named in the duke’s will, unexpectedly arrives at Nicholas’ doorstep. Nicholas should be skeptical of Iris as she is clearly hiding something, and her story and history are suspicious. Nevertheless, Nicholas is an honorable man, and he works to help determine whether she is the rightful heiress, which is complicated by his immediate and intense attraction to Iris. Iris, an independent and unconventional woman, is a rare book dealer who enjoys a sophisticated and adventurous lifestyle. While she possesses secrets she must protect, she finds it difficult to resist Nicholas’ curiosity and amorous advances. Although she should keep him at arm’s length, his seductive skills make it challenging to maintain her resolve. As the two interact, their mutual attraction complicates matters, but they soon realize that personal gains are not their sole concerns. Nicholas must navigate his newfound responsibilities as the duke, unravel the mystery surrounding Iris’ inheritance, and determine whether their family legacies make them enemies or allies.

OPINION: This is a delightful story that kept me reading to the end in one sitting. One of the standout aspects of the book is the enchanting relationship between Nicholas and Iris, which is both flirty and simmering with intense chemistry. From the very beginning, their connection is palpable, and it’s clear that they are drawn to each other. Despite their undeniable attraction, the characters’ honor and the weight of their secrets prevent them from complicating their relationship, adding a layer of tension and anticipation that kept me eagerly turning the pages.

The book skillfully weaves together the ongoing story surrounding the death of the prior duke, providing a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. The mysteries and secrets that have been built throughout the series are tied up nicely, offering a sense of closure and fulfillment. Hunter’s ability to seamlessly connect the threads of the overarching plot is commendable, leaving no loose ends and leaving readers satisfied with the resolution.

While there is much to love about this book, the ending left something to be desired by me. The absence of an epilogue where all three couples from the series come together is a missed opportunity. It would have been a joy to see them all in one place, celebrating their love and the triumphs they’ve experienced. Additionally, Nicholas and Iris deserved more time to savor their happy ending, allowing readers to revel in their love story and witness the growth of their relationship.

Despite this slight disappointment, the book remains a highly enjoyable read. The captivating romance between Nicholas and Iris, the well-crafted plot, and the satisfying resolution of the overarching story make it a worthwhile journey. This book left me with a warm and fuzzy feeling, even if I ended up craving just a little more time with the characters.

WORTH MENTIONING: I really enjoyed the foray into book collecting depicted here.

CONNECTED BOOKS: THE HEIRESS BRIDE is the third book in A Duke’s Heiress series. The romance is self-contained in this book, however, there is an overarching mystery about the death of the duke that continues through all three books and is easier to understand if the books are read in order.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.

NOTE: I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley in order to prepare this review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.

four-half-stars

Review: The Bride Wore White

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I received this book for free from Netgalley in order to prepare an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


Review: The Bride Wore WhiteThe Bride Wore White by Amanda Quick
Series: Burning Cove #7
Published by Berkley on May 2, 2023
Genres: Historical, Paranormal, Romantic Suspense
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: I loved this book. It is an enjoyable and satisfying read, with witty dialogue, engaging characters, and a well-developed paranormal element. the romance between Prudence and Jack was a highlight as I loved their prickly interactions. I especially was excited about the more prominent nods to the Arcane Society, and I hope there is more in this vein to come in the future of this series.

THE STORY: Prudence Ryland is a dream reader and psychic consultant who finds herself in danger when her latest client intends to kill her. When she uses her abilities to save herself, she decides to flee and make another life for herself. She changes her career becoming a librarian and moves to a new home, hoping to start fresh. However, she is kidnapped and wakes up in a bloodstained wedding dress next to a corpse, leading to her being framed for the murder. Prudence comes to Luther Pell in Burning Cove to ask for his assistance in proving her innocence. Luther assigns her case to his associate, Jack Wingate. Jack, who is scarred and grim-faced, initially believes Prudence to be a fraud or a murderer, but eventually agrees to help her. However, his idea of helping involves using her as bait for the killer. As the danger to Prudence increases, she finds herself struggling with her growing fascination with Jack.

OPINION: The Bride Wore White is a delightful addition to Amanda Quick’s Burning Cove series, blending elements of historical romance, mystery, and paranormal fiction to create a truly engaging and entertaining read. As the seventh book in the series, it continues the story of the eponymous seaside town and its colorful cast of characters, while also introducing new players and deepening existing relationships.

One of the standout features of Quick’s books is the way she incorporates paranormal elements into her storytelling. The Bride Wore White is no exception, featuring a variety of psychic abilities and supernatural phenomena that add an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to the narrative. From Prudence’s psychic dream consultations to the mysterious chimes that only Jack can hear, there’s always something otherworldly happening just beneath the surface.

I especially loved the relationship between Prudence and Jack. They are two individuals who have lived through emotional isolation and loneliness, and watching them slowly open up and connect with each other is deeply satisfying. The snappy and witty dialogue between them adds another layer of enjoyment to their interactions. Quick is a master at crafting sharp and clever banter between her characters, and it’s no different in this book.

Another highlight of this book is the ongoing development of Luther and Raina’s relationship. Fans of the series will remember these two characters from earlier installments, and it’s been fascinating to see their connection deepen and evolve over time. Their interactions in THE BRIDE WORE WHITE are particularly enjoyable, adding a sense of warmth and familiarity to the overall story.

Perhaps most excitingly for longtime fans, this book features numerous references to the Arcane Society, a secret organization that has appeared throughout Quick’s/Krentz’s/Castle’s various series. For readers who have followed the paranormal threads woven throughout these books, THE BRIDE WORE WHITE is a veritable treasure trove of easter eggs and allusions. It’s clear that Quick has a huge history of the Arcane Society at her disposal and it’s immensely satisfying to see those pieces return and come together in this latest installment.

Overall, The Bride Wore White is one of my favorites in the Burning Cove series, boasting Quick’s signature blend of romance, mystery, and the paranormal. With engaging characters, an intriguing plot, and plenty of nods to Quick’s larger body of work, it’s a must-read for fans of the author.

WORTH MENTIONING: I don’t want to give away spoilers, but I wonder if someone has a matchmaking talent that we might see more of in the future.

CONNECTED BOOKS: THE BRIDE WORE WHITE is the seventh book in the Burning Cove series. It is not necessary to read the other books to understand the events in this one since the romance and mystery stand alone. However, readers of the series will know more about the characters who appear in the book. The heroine appeared previously in CLOSE UP.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

NOTE: I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley in order to prepare this review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.

five-stars

Review: A Tempest at Sea

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Review: A Tempest at SeaA Tempest at Sea (Lady Sherlock, #7) by Sherry Thomas
Series: Lady Sherlock #7
Published by Berkley on March 14, 2023
Genres: Historical, Mystery
Pages: 336
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: Another amazing entry in this series that just gets better all the time. This one was especially good for fans of the romance between Charlotte and Ash. The mystery is great and has a wonderful Agatha Christie feel.

THE STORY: Charlotte Holmes has been in hiding to escape Moriarty. An offer from Lord Ingram’s brother, Lord Remington Ashburton, an agent of the British government who offers Charlotte her protection from Moriarty in exchange for her finding out particular information. Charlotte’s search brings her to the RMS Provence, where she sails in disguise dangerously with friends and foes. Charlotte is searching for a dossier when a murder occurs, which brings the police and also danger of Charlotte being exposed.

OPINION: I have two favorite parts of this book. First, the assembly of people on the boat when the murder occurs. The story felt very much like an Agatha Christie novel where the suspects are brought together, and there are different motives that might have led to the murder. My second favorite part of this book is the development of the relationship between Holmes and Ingram. They have come far from the first book in the series. While I enjoy the mystery, it is the strength of their connection that makes me re-read the series.

Because there are so many familiar faces in this book, it was nice getting to know more about these secondary characters and see how they have progressed through the series. The mystery here was very cleverly set out, and I liked that there was a great twist. So many of these books have followed a familiar pattern, but this book, in a different setting upends how the case is investigated and how the mystery is communicated to the readers through flashbacks revealing information at just the right time.

This book is well written and well constructed as a mystery. In addition, the series manages to stay fresh for fans of the series and provides a great deal of character development and a great romance. My only regret is that I have to wait until the next book to find out where Charlotte’s story goes from here.

WORTH MENTIONING: This book reminds me somewhat of Death on the Nile which I watched recently because of the murder on the ship with lots of people with dangerous connections.

CONNECTED BOOKS: A TEMPEST AT SEA is the seventh book in the Lady Sherlock series. The mystery here is self-contained and thus can be read as a standalone for that aspect. However, there is a continuing overarching storyline in this series that makes it better tor read the books in order.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

five-stars