The Best Intentions

GIVEAWAY

EDEN, SARAH M.

THE BEST INTENTIONS

In the eyes of London Society, Gillian Phelps is suitable enough. Though the ton whispers about her change of residence, any speculation remains just that: ballroom gossip. No one -- not even the other Huntresses, the group of ladies she calls her dearest friends -- knows that she is harbouring a devastating family secret. Gillian has become adept at hiding the reality of her circumstances, but the close quarters of a house party will test her ability to conceal the crushing truth. And wish so many people to deceive, the late arrival of another guest is a most unwelcome surprise.

Despite his standing as a gentleman of the ton, in truth, Scott Sarvol possesses little more than two debt-riddled estates. When an opportunity arises to survey one of his properties, he travels north, only to find himself  an unwitting guess at Artemis Jonquil's house party. He is warmly welcomed by all -- except the aloof Miss Gillian Phelps. But when Scott proves himself unexpectedly helpful in a crisis, his acquaintance with Gillian shifts from wariness to something warmer.

As both her charade and her feelings for Scott deepen, Gillian realizes that the truth could spell not only a devastating fall from Society but also a shattered heart.

My Review:

Sublimely happy sigh of supreme bibliophile joy! Sarah M. Eden does it to me every time, so why haven't I caught up on all her books yet?! That will definitely be a 2023 goal. 

I made some headway this year but petered out with the Jonquils though I have read some of that series so I was thrilled to meet up with this delightful family in 'The Best Intentions' too. Rest assured that this reads fine even if you haven't made any Jonquil acquaintances yet. I haven't read Artemis and Charlie's story either, which I think, introduces the Huntresses concept, but I had no problem diving right into this first of the Huntresses series.

And can I say, I just love that concept?! Young ladies with unique challenges who band together to support each other and make lasting friendships. The best kind of exclusive club ever! My guess is that each lady is going to get her own book and Eden has introduced them all in such a way that I am mightily intrigued and can't wait for more! Especially if they are as good as Gillian's story!

This author is known for writing witty banter and she doesn't disappoint here. Flirtations, heart-to-hearts, even haughty rebuffs were all swoonworthy to this Regency Romance lover. And I love the historical details the author has included -- from fashion, to games, to the ridiculous ins and outs of high society and a myriad other things as well. Makes it so easy to lose sense of time and place in my real world!

I can't say a whole lot about the romance without posting spoilers. Let's just say exquisite is too tame a word to describe the depths of emotion, the heights of giddy excitement and the profoundly thought-provoking moments. Of course, the hope for a happily ever after is not without complications which just made the read all the richer. And I will happily report that I figured out a solution to their major problem way before Gillian and Scott did. I'm pretty chuffed about that -- though it was a bit nerve-racking when neither hero or heroine heeded my advice. :-)

I listened to the audible edition expertly narrated by Luone Ingram. She does most, if not all, of Eden's book narrations and I love the familiarity of that partnership.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- Winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  The Best Intentions, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday December 17 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

The Bachelor and the Bride

GIVEAWAY

EDEN SARAH M.

THE BACHELOR AND THE BRIDE

London, 1886

Dr. Barnabus Millian has always felt called to help people, whether that means setting a broken bone or rescuing the impoverished women of London from their desperate lives on the streets as part of his work with the Dread Penny Society.

Three years ago, he helped rescue Gemma Kincaid by secretly marrying her to protect her from her family of notorious grave robbers.

But six months after Gemma and Barnabus exchanged vows, she realized her love of her new husband was unrequited. To protect her hearts, she left, telling Barnabus to contact her if his feelings for her ever grew beyond a sense of duty.

When Barnabus sends a letter to Gemma inviting her to return home, she hopes to find a true connection between them. But unfortunately, he only wants her help to foil the Kincaids, who have been terrorizing the boroughs of London, eager to gain both money and power.

Heartbroken, Gemma agrees to help, but she warns Barnabus that she will not stay for long and once she goes, he'll never see her again.

Yet as the couple follows the clues that seem to connect the Kincaids to the Mastiff, the lead of London's criminal network, Gemma and Baranbus realize they might make a better match than either of them suspected. Perhaps the marriage that hand once saved Gemma's life might now save Barnabus -- and his lonely heart.

But before the once-confirmed bachelor can properly court his secret bride, they'll need to evade the dangerous forces that are drawing ver closer to the hopeful lovers and the entire Dread Penny Society itself.

My Review:

Da Da Da Da Dummmmmm. Cue the tension-building background music, put your phone on mute, lock yourself in a room where no one can reach you (filled with the necessary reading supplies, of course...chocolate, tissues, chocolate, defibrillator, more chocolate, etc.) and be prepared to be swept away by this mesmerizing fourth instalment to the Dread Penny Society series.

I tried to make the journey last but I woke up at 5:30 a.m. on release day and started listening to my newly downloaded audible edition and then I was pretty much useless until I reached the end.

GASP!!!! THAT ENDING!!!! (THUD)

So, I went into this read thinking it was the last book in the series and I was pretty gloomy about that. Still, I tried to savour every second but my anxiety ramped up as the story progressed and then I was in a frenzy close to the end because how on earth was the author possibly going to wrap things up?! 

So -- the GOOD NEWS -- is that 'The Bachelor and the Bride' is actually not the last book in the series. (Everyone join me in a frantic bibliophile happy dance!) But -- the BAD NEWS -- is that 'The Bachelor and the Bride' ends abruptly after some rapid-fire shocking revelations AND a dastardly cliffhanger! (hence the need for the defibrillator.)

Sob! I have no idea when the next book will come out or even what it's called but I'm guessing we'll have to wait an entire year. Heaving sob!

Other random bits I should include in this review:

* Definitely don't read this book as your introduction to the Dread Penny Society series. If at all possible, read the books in order, or at least read the first book. That will give you a greater understanding of the Society and how it works as well as an introduction to key characters. Plus, there's a continuous part of the suspense plot that builds with each book...and then explodes in an unsuspecting reader's face in this one! (Still in shock!)

* I love the marriage of convenience trope!!!! And it's written to perfection here. With Gemma wearing her heart on her sleeve and Barbnabus too much of a dunderhead to realize he even has a heart! Such lovely emotional tension and I love how Eden took it in an unpredictable way. Just when I thought I figured out how the romance arc was going to play out, she surprised me. So much fun!

* As with all the other Dread Penny books, we get two actual Penny Dreadfuls interspersed into the story. One is so reminiscent of the darker fairy tales I grew up with (Irish) and I loved it. Not fiercely eerie, but definitely not Disney-fied. And the other Penny Dreadful is also suitably somber in the form of an ominous cautionary tale. The tone of both suited the dire straits of the 'real life' suspense plot Gemma and Barnabus are living.

* Though there's danger afoot, and an odious villain...well a multitude of them...to thwart...our Dread Penny heroes and heroines still have time to banter and josh and the author gives us some enticing glimpses into the lives of characters who starred in previous books. 

All in all a wonderfully satisfying continuation to the series, if rather hair-raising, jaw-dropping towards the end. Now, can somebody please tell me when the fifth book comes out...and please tell me it's Stone's story!

Goal Update: #5 Diversify my reading, #6 Stay current with a series.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy. Winner's choice. Or, if you haven't started the series and would prefer a copy of the first book, The Lady and the Highwayman, you could choose that book instead.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Bachelor and the Bride, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday September 17 2022 . Offer open to International Readers.

The Lady and the Highwayman

GIVEAWAY
RETRO RE-READ SUNDAY!

EDEN, SARAH M.

THE LADY AND THE HIGHWAYMAN

Elizabeth Black is the headmistress of a girls' school and a well-respected author of "silver-fork" novels, stories written both for and about the upper-class ladies of Victorian society. But by night, she writes very different kinds of stories -- the Penny Dreadfuls that are all the rage among the working class men. Under the pseudonym Mr. King, Elizabeth has written about dashing heroes fighting supernatural threats and dangerous outlaws romancing helpless women. They contain all the adventure and mystery that her real life lacks.

Fletcher Walker began life as a street urchin, but is now the most successful author in the Penny Dreadful market, that is until Mr. King started taking all of his readers -- and his profits. No one knows who King is, including Fletcher's fellow members of the Dread Penny Society, a fraternity of authors dedicated to secretly fighting for the rights of the less-fortunate.

Determined to find the elusive Mr. King, Fletcher approaches Miss Black. As a fellow-author, perhaps she could be persuaded to make some inquiries as to Mr. King's whereabouts? Elizabeth agrees to help Fletcher, if only to insure her secret identity is never discovered.

For the first time, Elizabeth experiences the thrill of a cat-and-mouse adventure reminiscent of one of her own novels as she tries to throw Fletcher off her scent. But the more time they spend together, the more she loses her heart. It's upper-class against the working-class, author against author where readers, reputations, and romance are all on the line.

My Review:

published in 2018

In anticipation of the fourth book being released in September, I thought it would be fun to have a refresher course on all things Dread Penny Society and the excellently narrated (Justine Eyre) edition was definitely the way to go. I'm as thrilled -- maybe more -- this time round. This first book is obviously the perfect introduction to the series and such a captivating, unusual read in its own right.

----

Another brilliant Victorian novel that sent me into a spiral of enthuzimuzzy-ness. I'm all gigglemug agog as I bask in the blissful glow of Sarah M. Eden's sheer brilliance. Because...

She delivers three stories in one -- the main plot involves Elizabeth and Fletcher but there's also two complete Penny Dreadful stories woven throughout. And let me tell you, it's beyond clever the way the author meshes them all together. Each story is distinctive, but if you pay close attention to the Penny Dreadful stories you'll notice parallels with the main plot. I get giddy just thinking about it! 

And then there's the Dread Penny Society -- a clandestine philanthropic group of Penny Dreadful authors dedicated to rescuing London's abused street urchins. Intrigue and danger abound and Elizabeth finds herself unwittingly in the midst of it all.

And, oh my, the romance. Thud. Excuse me while I succumb to a fit of the vapors. That Fletcher sets my toes to curling every time. The banter, the flirting, the guarded attraction that's impossible to give in to. Blissful sigh. Smelling salts and fainting couches are a must for this one.

I listened to the audible edition of this book, narrated by Justine Eyre who did an incredible job with these unique characters and all their quirks and foibles.

If you are looking for a historical romance that's just a tad shy of out-of-the-box crazy full of sizzle and spark look no further, The Lady and the Highway Man is the book for you. And when you've finished reading this one, get hold of book two, The Gentleman and the Thief, which is just as amazing. And then, join me in practicing patience as we wait for The Merchant and the Rogue's release in August. Eeeep, that one has an Irish hero.

PS. Did you spot my Victorian slang in the first paragraph of my review? I do so love to toss those delicious words out on proper occasions. Enthuzimuzzy is enthusiasm and gigglemug is a perpetual grin, :-)

PSS While not a Christian Fiction read, this is definitely a clean one.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  The Lady and the Highwayman, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 20 2022 . Offer open to International Readers. Good luck

Courting Miss Lancaster

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO READ DAY!

EDEN, SARAH M.

COURTING MISS LANCASTER

Harry Windower adores blonde, green-eyed Athena Lancaster, but alas, a penniless man like himself has no hope of winning a young noblewoman's hand. To add insult to injury, Athena's brother-in-law and guardian, the Duke of Kielder, has asked Harry to assist Athena in finding a gentleman of her dreams. But the lovesick Harry is cunning as well: as the weeks pass, he introduces Athena to suitors who are horrifically boring, alarmingly attached to their mothers, downright rude, astoundingly self-absorbed and utterly ridiculous.

Athena can't comprehend why she is having so little success meeting eligible and acceptable gentlemen. Indeed, her circle of admirers couldn't be less admirable -- nothing like the loyal, gentle friend she's found in Harry. But how long can Harry's scheme be hidden before it is discovered? And what will Athena do when she uncovers Harry's deception?

Escape into a charming regency world in this delightfully romantic comedy of manners that will entertain you to the very las word.

My Review:

published in 2010

No one does Regency banter like Sarah M. Eden! I grinned like a fool all the way through this listen -- laughed out loud more than once, which garnered me alarmed looks from fellow pedestrians as I walked around my neighbourhood. Gotta love bluetooth air buds that make it impossible for people to know you're listening to a riveting book while getting your steps in. :-)

This is the second Lancaster Family book and, while it can be happily read as a standalone, I was delirious with delight over the reappearance of the notorious Duke of Keilder (hero from Seeking Persephone.) He plays a major role in Athena and Harry's story and stole the show every single time he was on page. I'm still besotted with the man even though (or maybe because) he's just as taciturn and grumpy as ever. His cutting remarks kept me howling with laughter and Harry knows how to poke the bear with hilarious results. 

Poor Athena just wants her season and a successful match by its conclusion. Poor, impoverished Harry loves her from afar and is tasked with introducing her to 'eligible' bachelors with even more hilarious results. I think this is the funniest Eden book I've ever read.

But don't worry, there are toe-curling moments as well. In fact, I don't think I'll ever look at handholding in the same way ever again (she says, fanning herself furiously.)

A slow-burn romance between friends punctuated by copious amounts of hilarity throughout.

Goal Update: #2 Catch up on series I'm behind in, #5 Diversify my reading, #8 Play author catchup

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for an ecopy of this book. 

If you would like a chance to win a copy of  Courting Miss Lancaster, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the Draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday June 11 2022. Offer open to International Readers.

Ashes on the Moor

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO READ DAY!
WITH AN IRISH HERO
FOR ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

EDEN, SARA M.

ASHES ON THE MOOR

When Evangeline is sent to live in a small mill town in Northern England as a schoolteacher in 1871, she finds herself struggling to fit in with an unfamiliar culture.

Raised with the high-class Victorian values and ideals of a sophisticated upbringing, she is unprepared for the poverty she finds in the gritty factory town of Smeatley, where the locals speak with a hard-to-understand Yorkshire accent and struggle to thrive with few resources or opportunities.

Though she has no training as a teacher, she must prove herself successful before her grandfather will release her substantial inheritance to her and allow her to be reunited with her younger sister, the last remaining member of her family after a fever claimed the lives of her parents and brothers.

Evangeline's sudden change in circumstances is complicated when her aunt -- a woman who values class distinctions more than her family relationships -- forbids her from acknowledging any connection to her or to her grandfather, Mr. Farr -- the man who owns nearly the entire town. For the first time in her life, Evangeline is truly alone.

****There is a ton more in this book blurb but I stopped it here because the rest is like reading a synopsis of the whole book! Revealed way to much in my opinion!***

My Review:

published in 2018

 "Christy" (Catherine Marshall) set in a small Yorkshire mill town with a bit of Bronte a air.  Eden brings drama and conflict to life in this atmospheric look at class differences in Victorian England. There are characters to love...and hate! And even some who surprised me. Lives intertwined for better or worse on the Yorkshire moors. 

Delicious shiver of readerly delight!

We meet Evangeline on the day of her family's funeral. Unfortunately, we also meet her overbearing, spitefully vindictive aunt as well. And that first scene sets the tone for the rest of the book. Ashes on the Moor isn't bereft of humour, but it isn't as lighthearted as some of Eden's more recent works. Oh, there's banter between the hero and the heroine -- but there's more of an edge to it. And the nature of the story is more drama than comedy. But it's beautifully told and the author captures a depth of emotions, pulling her readers into the turmoil that has become Evangeline's life. My heart still feels a tad bruised. :-)

So, this is a bit of an enemies to more romance. Irish brick mason Dermot is not happy to be saddled with the unexpected care and keeping of the new school teacher who is clearly out of her depth. Sure and he's surly as can be when we first meet him, but then he's an Irishman transplanted among the English and he might have a chip on his shoulder about that. Best you discover his story on your own so I'll say no more.

Evangeline is clearly shell shocked when we first meet her. Who wouldn't be after losing all her family to a vicious fever? But her aunt has deliberately set her up to fail and is gloating all the while. But meek, resigned Evangeline slowly develops a backbone and the ability to look beyond her own trauma and into the difficult lives of her ragtag students.

Phew! This story played havoc with my emotions but I was cheering in a most unladylike fashion by the end (those staid Victorians would be appalled!)

I listened to the audible edition narrated by Justine Eyre (who is one of my favourite narrators!) and couldn't put this book down. The perfect pairing for my discerning literary ear!

Please note: while not a Christian Fiction selection it is an inspiring clean read.

Goal Update: #6 Diversify my reading, Yorkshire! #8 Play author catch-up

  GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or e book copy -- winner's choice.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Ashes on the Moor, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday March 19 2022. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck

The Sheriffs of Savage Wells

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO READ DAY!

EDEN, SARAH M.

THE SHERIFFS OF SAVAGE WELLS

He's the most fearsome sheriff in the West. A force to be reckoned with. The stuff of legend.

So is she...May the best sheriff win.

Paisley Bell knows the eccentric people of Savage Wells. From the absentminded shopkeeper who always thinks she's been robbed to the young man who has returned shell-shocked from the war, Paisley has compassion for them all. When the sheriff up and leaves town, Paisley steps up and assumes the responsibility, partly because she loves the work, but also because she needs the income to take care of her sick father. So when the town council decides that the position of sheriff should really go to a man, Paisley finds herself fighting to prove that she's the perfect candidate for the job, even though she wears a skirt.

Cade O'Brien is heartily sick of shooting people. In his many years as a lawman, Cade has seen his share of blood and violence. So when he answers an advertisement for a sheriff job in the sleepy town of Savage Wells, he believes he's found the peace and quiet he's always desired. But when he discovers that his biggest competition for the job is a woman, he begins to question his decision.

Tension between the two begins to sizzle when both Cade and Paisley realize the attraction they have for each other, but when Paisley's former beau shows up in town, along with a band of bank robbers, the blossoming relationship between the two sheriffs is tested. They will have to work together to thwart the bank robbers and keep the town safe.

My Review:

published in 2016

Hysterically witty and romantical and so much fun! Love the Western twang to the banter that volleys between Cade and Paisley. 

He's your typical Western hero, tough and relentless in the pursuit of lawlessness with an innate protector gene that gets him into all kinds of trouble with Paisley. Yet he respects her too, both her gumption and capabilities and reluctantly acknowledges that she can teach him a thing or two -- as long as he manages to guard his heart during their encounters.

Paisley is her own kind of tough mixed with naivety and a heart for the quirky misfits who call Savage Wells home. She might not be the Wild West legend Cade is, but she has a knack for dealing kindly and efficiently with the unique townsfolk.

Let the games begin as Cade and Paisley duke it out for the job of sheriff. It should be straight forward, Cade has all the experience after all. But Paisley has the grit to challenge him and their competition is loads of fun...until bank robbers show up in town and these two adversaries must become allies for the greater good.

I read the second Savage Wells book first (Healing Hearts) and loved it so much I immediately started in on this one. Eden has created such a memorable setting with the kind of quirky characters that keep a reader grinning. And she achieves the perfect balance between humour and drama and swoonalicious romance. 

I'm all kinds of heartbroken that this seems to be the last book in the series. :-( Gutted really. What about Hawk, inquiring readers want to know? Doesn't he get his own story? Sniffle.

I listened to the audible edition narrated by Kristen Potter and enjoyed every delectable second!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway an ebook copy.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Sheriffs of Savage Wells, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday November 20 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck

Healing Hearts

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO READ DAY!

EDEN, SARAH M.

HEALING HEARTS

Wyoming Territory, 1876

As the only doctor in the frontier town of Savage Well, Gideon McNamara knows his prospects for a bride are limited. The womenfolk in town are either too young, too old or already spoken for. So, being a practical man, he decides to take advantage of the matchmaking service of the day -- mail-order brides -- and sends away for a woman with nursing experience.

When Miriam steps off the stagecoach in Savage Wells, she sees a bright future in front of her. But when the town -- and Gideon -- meets her, ready for a wedding, her excitement quickly turns to horror. Somehow Dr. MacNamara's message had gotten turned around. He didn't want a nurse, he wanted a wife. When she refuses to marry him, she finds herself stranded in Savage Wells with some very unhappy townspeople.

But Gideon is not like the other men Miriam has met. Embarrassed by the misunderstanding, he offers her a job, and the two begin an awkward -- and often humorous -- dance of getting to know each other as they work to care for the people of their town. Romance blossoms between the two, but when a former medical associate of Miriam's arrives in town, Gideon and the other townsfolk must rally around Miriam to protect her from a dangerous fate. Gideon and Miriam must decide if they are willing to risk their hearts for each other even as buried secrets are brought to light.

My Review:

published in 2019

So, I've been devouring Sarah M. Eden's Regency books and still have a way to go so I really didn't have any interest in reading one of her Western romances until I conquered that Regency backlist. But then Healing Hearts popped up on my audible plus list and I couldn't resist. I honestly didn't think I would enjoy it as much as her Regencies...I was so wrrrrooonnnnggg!!!! 

Still classic Eden, just with an American twang. :-) So, no Regency style banter but there's plenty of witty repartee between Miriam and Gideon. We're missing a manor house and all the hoity-toity dressing of London's elite, but we have a town full of opinionated characters who get in this couple's business every which way. 

And we have the colossal misunderstanding that's at the start of it all. Sooooo much fun!!! The mail-order-bride that wasn't! Poor Miriam steps off the stagecoach thinking she's accepted a nursing position only the whole town thinks she's about to become their beloved doctor's wife. Things go downhill from there. Bwahahaha!

Though there are some really comedic twists in this story, there's also some heartbreaking drama and even danger. Because Miriam is fleeing from a horrific past and if she's caught...shudder. I was appalled at her situation and sickened to think that what she endured was common place at the time, and, as a woman she had absolutely no recourse open to her...except to run.

Incredible fast-paced story full of wit and pathos and the hope of better things to come. Oh -- and the way the town rallies around Miriam -- hoozah! Stand-up-and-cheer-until-you're-hoarse kind of stuff!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for an ebook copy.

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Healing Hearts, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday November 13 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck

The Merchant and the Rogue

GIVEAWAY

EDEN, SARAH M.

THE MERCHANT AND THE ROGUE

London, 1865

Vera Sorokina loves reading the Penny Dreadfuls and immersing herself in tales of adventure, mystery, and romance. Her own days are filled with the often mundane work of running the book and print shop she owns with her father. The shop offers her freedom and an income, and while she is grateful for the stability it brings to her life, she often feels lonely.

Brogan Donnelly was born and raised in Ireland, but has lived in London for several years, where he's built a career as a penny dreadful writer. He has dedicated himself to the plight of the poor with the help of his sister. But with no one to share his life with, he fears London will never truly feel like home.

Brogan and Vera's paths cross, and the attraction is both immediate and ill-advised. Vera knows from past experience that writers are never to be trusted, and Brogran has reason to suspect not everything at Vera's print shop is aboveboard. When a growing criminal enterprise begins targeting their area of London, Brogan and Vera must work together to protect the community they've both grown to love. But that means they'll need to learn to trust each other with dangerous secrets that have followed both of them from their home countries.

My Review:

Ssssssqqqqquuuuuueeeeeeeppppp! That's me squealing and eeping in a fangirling extravaganza of bookish glee because I LOVE this series soooooooo much! I was so eager for The Merchant and the Rogue's release that this was another audible preorder for me. 

Justine Eyre is the fantabulous narrator who brings an extra zip to an already unputdownable...er unable-to-stop-listening...read. She does all the voices so well -- from a dreamy Irish brogue to street urchin slang and everything in between. I've been collecting this series on audible and will continue to because of Justine Eyre! But the book covers are so gorgeous I think I'll have to purchase back up print copies too. :-)

This is the third book in Eden's Dread Penny Society series and, while I think it would read fine as a standalone, you'll get so much more out of the society and the Penny Dreadful aspects of the story if you read the books in order. Plus, they're brilliant fun so why wouldn't you want to read them all? :-)

In case you go ahead and dive into the series via this one, here's the basics you need to know: 

1) The Dread Penny Society is a group (a wonderful cross section of society) of Penny Dreadful authors who work 'undercover' to rescue London's downtrodden. They have nefarious enemies who will go to any lengths to ensure they don't succeed so cue the heart-tripping mood music and settle in for some intrigue and action.

2) Penny Dreadfuls were serialized stories told with atmospheric flare including mysteries and the paranormal and published in weekly installments. 

Each of the Dread Penny Society books include two Penny Dreadful tales along with the main story which makes it so much fun! Loved all the Irish references in this one. And, yay for a dashing Irish hero who thinks he's anything but dashing. Brogan considers himself as a foot soldier among a society of leaders and I love how he got his chance to shine in his very own story. 

The romance is sweet, slowly percolating in the background and just when you think it can't get more perfect...splat...that potential happily-ever-after takes a nose dive. Great romantical pacing with the perfect balance of highs and lows.

Add some intrigue in the form of some truly despicable villains and the stand-up-and-cheer moment when they are defeated and, well, I'm just gobsmacked and blissfully happy. Even if the suspense isn't totally wrapped up in a neat little bow because that means more Dread Penny Society books in my future! Woohoo!!!!!

Please Note: While not a Christian Fiction novel, this is a clean read.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for a paperback or ebook copy -- winner's choice. 

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Merchant and the Rogue, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday September 4 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

For Love or Honor

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO READ 

EDEN, SARAH M.

FOR LOVE OR HONOR

From the moment they met, Marjie's heart has belonged to handsome Captain Stanley Jonquil, younger brother of the Earl of Lampton. But six long months ago, when Stanley's sense of honor required that he do as he had sworn and return to the Continent to fight in defense of King and country, neither Stanley nor Marjie could have dreamed what the cost of his service would be. It has been ages since Stanley last wrote, and Marjie and the Jonquil family are plagued by his unknown fate -- until the day he unexpectedly reappears. 

Marjie's joy, however, is quickly shadowed by confusion -- the aloof, battle-worn soldier before her is not the man he once was. In the wake of Stanley's blatant disinterest in renewing their acquaintance, Marjie's devastation turns to determination as she vows to help him find peace. 

But his scars run far deeper than anyone realizes. 

Despite his feelings for her, Stanley believes Marjie deserves a man whose hands are not stained with the violence of battlefields and whose mind and heart are not haunted by the horrors he has seen. Honor requires Stanley to return once more to the life he has grown to despise, once he knows will destroy him in the end, even as his heart beckons him to stay with Marjie, the only woman he could ever love, and the promise, at last, of redemption.

My Review:

published in 2017

Are you tired of all my Jonquil fangirling moments yet? Hope not, because we still have two more brothers to go. :-) At this rate I'll have to replace the springs and the ticking of my fainting couch by the time Charlie's turn rolls around. 

One of the striking things about this series is the way each book is both refreshingly different and comfortably the same. The difference comes courtesy of each brother's unique personality which also drives each distinctive plot. And the sameness comes in the form of Eden's trademark banter and wit . Oh -- and cutting dialogue! 

For Love or Honor is, by necessity, the most serious book so far and that's because of Stanley's circumstances as he grapples with what we now know as PTSD. The humour is still here, but it's subtler. And there's a fragile edge to the banter at times. And a heartaching tenderness in all the relationships -- romantical, brotherly, motherly. Quite a few scenes brought me to tears. And then I'd be Cheshire grinning through the next scene.

One of my favourite secondary characters ever is Stanley's scrappy young street urchin batman. Pure comic relief. I hope we get to see more of him in future novels.

And then there's Marjie. Sweet and constant, her devotion to Stanley is the backbone of their story. And sometimes I wanted to purse whomp Stanley for being so stubbornly 'noble' and shredding poor Marjie's heart to bits in the process. There's a compelling push/pull to their relationship that kept me on tenterhooks until the very end...and I do mean the very end!

I listened to the audible edition of For Love or Honor and was completely captivated by Aubrey Warner's narration. I could tell she enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed listening to her.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for an ebook

If you would like a chance to win a copy of The Love of Honor, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday July 10 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

A Fine Gentleman

GIVEAWAY
RANDOM RETRO READ DAY!

EDEN, SARAH M.

A FINE GENTLEMAN

London barrister Jason Jonquil has spent his entire life working to establish his identity as a gentleman, a man of refinement like his father and brothers. But when fiery Spanish beauty Mariposa Thornton walks into his office, he finds himself losing his grasp on his dignified character. The woman is infuriating, pushing him to the limit of his legendary patience. However, her case seems simple enough -- a small matter of inheritance. Or so he believes.

Once a well-born lady, Mariposa fought to survive the brutalities of Napoleon's war on Spain. She braved horrific perils and undertook dangerous missions on behalf of those fighting against the invading French army. But her greatest battle still lies ahead: after being separated from her family, Mariposa sets in motion a plan to reunite with her loved ones in England. To avoid drawing the attention of the French, Mariposa dons a carefully crafted persona to conceal her true purpose. As Jason and Mariposa are drawn together by the case, they come to know the people beneath the masks they both wear.

My Review:

published in 2008; reprinted 2017

This is me gushing over Jonquil men again. And while I'm at it, I'll gush over Sarah M. Eden as well. She's not only managed to create a dynamic  brothers series, but, while there are similar (and exquisitely delightful) elements to each book, each brother and his story is also absolutely unique. 

They all have distinctive personalities based not only on birth order but life experience. And I'm discovering that each one struggles deeply with the loss of their father at much too young an age. That leaves them all vulnerable as they strive to live up to their sometimes skewed ideas of what would make their father proud. That inner struggle adds delicious layers to an already rich plot.

So we have the ever dignified barrister son. Jason is even-tempered, honourable and dignified. Might even say verging on pompous at times. Mariposa sure would. :-) And, oh my goodness their first scene together is hilarious. 

Eden excels at witty banter, but somehow she always finds a way to deliver it with a fresh spin. Mariposa is indescribably clever and adept at turning a conversation into a masterpiece of parody. Poor Jason is not only flummoxed but he's at risk of losing his patience and dignity...and maybe even his heart as well. Hearty guffawing laugh alert -- might not want to read this book in public. :-)

And for all the comedic elements in this novel there are just as many poignant ones. Not to mention swoonworthy moments galore! I am seriously addicted to these brothers and their accumulating lady loves. I'm going to be devastated when it's all over. Luckily I'm just at the mid point so I have more brothers to swoon over in my very near future.

I listened to the audible edition narrated by Aubrey Warner and enjoyed every second of her animated performance. It takes a lot of energy to pull off Mariposa and Warner was definitely up to the task!

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is for an ebook copy  (sadly, print copies no longer available on Book Depository)

If you would like a chance to win a copy of A Fine Gentleman, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add your email to a comment, remember to use AT AND DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday July 3 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!

As You Are

GIVEAWAY

EDEN, SARAH M.

AS YOU ARE

A horse breeder by trade, Corbin Jonquil is more at home in the stables than in the ballroom of his sprawling estate. Corbin is the quietest of the Jonquil brothers and has always faded into the background, contentedly unnoticed. When a mysterious young widow, Mrs. Clara Bentford, moves into the neighborhood, however, Corbin quickly comes to realize that being noticed has its advantages. But how to catch the eye of the lady?

According to his brothers, Corbin need only make a few simple changes to transform himself into the object of any woman's desire -- dubious advice, indeed. Following a series of misadventures, Corbin and Clara slowly lower the facades behind which they've been hiding, leaving Corbin shocked by the horrors that haunt the woman he's coming to care for so ardently. When the menace of Clara's past threatens to tear them apart and tensions mount, will the couple have the courage to fight for the promise of forever?

My Review:

I've been on quite the literary Jonquil jaunt these last few weeks and there are still more books in store. Eeeeppp! A steady diet of this family is keeping me in  giddy euphoria. :-) Because...these brothers!!!!! I can't even...each time I pick a favourite another one steals my heart. They're wily like that. And the dynamics between the brothers is both hilarious and heartwarming, though it definitely leans towards a comedic masterpiece in As You Are. 

The Jonquils are at their best (or worst, depending on your point of view) as they advise their shy, quiet brother on the art of attracting a lady's attention. (Cue the eye rolls and be prepared to guffaw your way from beginning to end.) Poor Corbin. He's so out of his depth and his brothers really aren't helping. 

He's the antithesis of a hero. Barely able to get a word out in mixed company. His head is full of thoughts but they become muddled when he tries to speak so he stammers along in half syllables and unfinished sentences. His family is used to filling in the blanks but Clara? Well, she's under the impression that the handsome gentleman is aloof because she is not of his station. Oh, the mix ups and confusion. I laughed so hard and winced and gasped. Eden has an unparalleled wit and she uses it to full advantage in this novel.

Side note: I adore banter in my romances -- especially Regencies -- and this author excels at it. But there isn't any ( or very little) between Corbin and Clara because the poor man butchers a simple mundane "Good day. Lovely morning, isn't it?" so delving into rapier word play is well beyond him and somehow it works anyway. The romance is still delectably frustrating. There are even more comedic moments than in the other Jonquil Brothers novels I have read. And the author finds so many other ways to convey Corbin's intellect and sharp wit and huge heart. Happy sigh. I am well and truly smitten.

And the way he is with Clara's children! The tender care and gentle guidance he gives them. Completely melted my heart. And Clara's. But she has just escaped from a troubled past and doubts she could ever trust a man. And when that past pursues her to her quiet country haven, the Jonquil brothers band together to take up her cause. Cue the marching band and ticker tape because these guys deserve a hero's parade!

Of course, there's a happily ever after, hard won, of course, but oh so sweet and satisfying. I'll allow myself to bask in the romantical afterglow for a while before I start in on the next book in the series -- Corbin's twin brother, Jason's story -- and it looks to be a doozy!

Oh -- and I listened to the audible edition which has a different narrator than the rest of the series. Jason Tatom did an admirable job but I have to admit I prefer female narrators. I find that when men lighten their voices to portray female characters it seems mincing and comedic and just sounds off to me most of the time. Tatom did a good job -- not as exaggerated as some of the other male narrators I have listened to but I'm still glad to see the series returning to Luone Ingram for the next books. But that just my audio book listening quirk. :

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

This giveaway is available in paperback or ebook format -- winner's choice

If you would like a chance to win a copy of As You Are, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it's easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winners announced on Saturday June 19 2021. Offer open to International Readers. Good luck!