The Keys To A Time Machine (Confessions Of A Scoundrel Book 1)

I'm screwed. And banging Mia Doyle is my best defense.

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Get your copy today. I absolutely loved this book! They made the perfect couple. Both stubborn and bullheaded and the humor between them was really magical. I am anxious to read the next Miller's Creek book and highly recommend Texas Roads for Christian fiction readers. Each story shares the struggles and triumphs of a sister as they deal with their faith, the bonds of family and love!

Home Is Where the Heart Is: Will's Story Coming Home: Lily's story A Home for Christmas: Rose's story A Christian romance novella available October Don't miss out on these inspirational love stories of faith, family and romance. It was something she would never forgive herself for… Jessi hung up the phone. That was the fifth time she tried calling home with no answer. She had just started eating lunch when she remembered she had forgotten to call home.

She tried calling several times while she ate her lunch. She closed her eyes and rested her arms and head on her desk. She breathed deeply, wishing she had remembered to call earlier. Until Forever is a story of a young family that is torn apart by the devastating effects of alcoholism. Will Jessi's pain and Mark's guilt keep them apart forever, or will unforeseen circumstances bind them together? Can healing take place in a relationship when an unforgivable act is committed?

A wacky hairstylist on a mission for God, the cowboy thrown into keeping her out of trouble, watching this unlikely couple fall in love is pure fun! Dream With Me, Cowboy is book 1 of an addictively fun Christian romance series! Hairstylist Lacy Brown believes love is in the air and the hair when she drives her ancient pink convertible into town and joins forces with three matchmakers who've started a national "wives wanted" ad campaign to save their dying town.

But she's not looking for love From the moment rancher Clint Matlock and Lacy Brown collide the unpredictable spitfire turns his life upside down and suddenly he's having trouble keeping his mind on stopping rustlers If you like fast paced, well-written romance with loveable characters you'll love this series! These stories will be etched into your heart forever!

Like a bag of chips-you can't read just one! A Christian Contemporary Western Romance series. Inspirational Novels that will make you smile. Previously published as the Mule Hollow series. This enhanced edition includes some fun extras. Couldn't put it down! Debra gives readers what they want.

It'll take a witchy woman to break a wicked curse.

I've read every book Debra Clopton has written and as usual I couldn't put this one down! To Robin Bartlett, men were nothing more than violent users. After a hair-raising childhood, Robin and her two younger half sisters battled simply to survive. Determined to give her sisters a very different life from that of their mother; to never have to rely on a man for anything, she worked two jobs and put them both through college, while accepting help from no one. Her heart had turned to ice and she had no use for men or God. Antonio "Tony" Viscolli had grown up on the streets, homeless.

At seventeen, he entered a downtown church with the intent of casing it, but found himself on his knees at the alter. After being fostered by the youth minister, Tony followed God's leading and eventually became a very successful and powerful businessman. In a fallen world, he was a gem. When Tony bought the restaurant where Robin bartended, she immediately resented his intrusion into her well ordered, but exhausting, life.

She suspected his offering her special attention and constant kindness was merely his way of expecting something from her in return, something she wasn't willing to give. Tony knew God had led him to Robin. Would she ever allow herself to trust him? Could she ever allow herself to trust God?

Or would the winter of their tragic youth rise from the shadows of the past and freeze any chance at happiness? Ava Kingsley and Seth Walker might be the most unlikely friends ever. The only thing these two polar opposites have in common is a knack for wordsmithing. At their ten-year college reunion, they pick up right where they left off. Except this time their squabbling leads to a surprising turn: So when Ava approaches a crossroads in her athletics department career in Minnesota, Seth is quick to offer the open apartment above the restaurant he's been remodeling in Maple Valley, Iowa.

Ava doesn't know where her career will lead her next, but she's starting to suspect she might see Seth as more than a pen pal. Which would be exciting As Maple Valley grows on her, Ava wonders if there might be something here for her even though Seth is unavailable. And maybe, just maybe, after all the words the two of them have exchanged over the years, they'll finally be able to say the three that matter most. Three Little Words is an e-only novella that gives an exciting introduction to Melissa Tagg's new series about the charismatic Walker family and the endearing town of Maple Valley!

From this bestselling page turner series comes a Christian romantic suspense novel about treachery, betrayal, and justice redeemed by grace.

A justice-seeking small town girl and new attorney dreams of a perfect life. So Gracie is far from happy when her far-from-perfect former boyfriend shows up unannounced. Disillusioned by life as a defense lawyer, she goes to work for the prosecution. But things are not as they appear.

Unsure of who to trust, she launches her own covert investigation. Then she falls prey to the schemes of a master manipulator and is unwittingly caught in the cross-fire of a personal vendetta. In a heartbeat, her perfect dreams disintegrate in a heap of ashes. A free-spirited musician returns to Miller's Creek to see if the only woman he's ever loved will want him now that she's out of law school.

But Matt can't compete with Gracie's picture-perfect ideal man and decides to hits the road on a concert tour instead. Can Matt make it back to Miller's Creek in time to protect Gracie when her pursuit of justice lands her in danger? Will Gracie become the fall girl for those bent on her destruction?

And can she bestow sacrificial grace on even her enemies--especially in the face of life-altering tragedy? Written with the feel of Mitford and Mayberry, readers have fallen in love with Miller's Creek. Grab your copy of this heart-pounding courtroom legal thriller now.

With vivid and interesting characters, some strange twists and turns, and blessings behind difficulties, The Way of Grace was a great read. I was caught up with Gracie and her story, and the end of the book came too soon for me. There were times, I could not put the book down as it had me hanging onto my seat. Grace is in the title of the book and is a major theme of the book. Woven throughout the book amid dialogue and interactions, the message of grace came through loud and clear, and in a non-preachy way.

You have helped me see a little more clearly and prayerfully, I will choose to live my life full of grace and mercy and extend that to others. I also found the idea of Grace and justice something to consider in a new way. I laughed and cried throughout the whole story. Online dating was supposed to make life easier. Lia Promise is a nurse who enjoys the fast pace of the ER. She decides to take matters into her own hands with online dating. That ought to speed things up, right? When his long-time friend Lia asks for moral support — which means joining her in the world of online dating - he agrees.

What could possibly go wrong? Lia and Maverick meet regularly to tell each other about their horrible dates. After all, misery loves company. After the death of his wife, prosperous businessman Chance Boden heads west along the Santa Fe Trail with his son to escape the powerful control of his in-laws. He has plans to establish his own ranch, but instead he finds work with Frank Chastain, owner of a vast amount of land. Chance doesn't want to work for anyone, but Frank's beautiful daughter, Veronica, gives him reason to delay buying his own holdings.

With winter coming, no home in which to live, and Veronica's offer to care for young Cole while Chance learns the ways of ranching in the desert, Chance has little choice but to accept the Chastains' offer to stay on. When Frank is attacked, his last wish is that Chance marry his daughter, but after dealing with his in-laws, Chance doesn't want anyone coming between him and his son.

Then, before Frank dies, his precarious hold on the land he received as part of an old Spanish Land Grant forces him to make a desperate choice to save Veronica's inheritance--and also gives the men who attacked Frank a reason to come after his legacy. What do you do when the pain of your past leaves you feeling so unworthy, that any hope of a future crumbles right before your eyes? Even before she reaches her destination, Nathan McKinley sets up a roadblock to her plan. His charming and gentle personality is no match for her love-starved heart. Can Nathan help her hold on to her new relationship with God, or will she allow her dark and troubled past to pluck out the tiny bud of hope that is beginning to blossom within her heart?

On a moonless night in , Adela McGirth encounters a set of wolves and the steely eyed warrior who slays them, searing himself on her heart. When he returns, it's with a brand of a different sort--the flaming arrow that destroys her life. If you love sagas that are deep and bold and aren't afraid to take their time unfolding, this is the one for you. Each of its books can stand alone. Bitter Eyes No More 5. Love the War Woman coming Feb 6. Her only escape from the arrangement is to find another husband quick, so she concocts a desperate plan and agrees to become a mail order bride. When a drastic change in circumstances dumps her into the arms of Hal Grayson, a handsome grieving man who hates her family, she is forced to rethink her hastily made plan.

What more could a reader want from a book. Love that seemed impossible, became something that makes tears come to your eyes and a smile to your lips. I read it in two days and will read the rest of the series. You can feel the pain and sorrow that a war can bring a family and love heals.

A plucky city girl. Romance in cowboy country. When a crisis cripples the ranch, stern cowboy Jett Maddox is suddenly promoted to foreman. Just in time for the fall cattle drive. Except for the new spitfire cook who is way too soft for wild country. City-girl Marlee Donovan knows failure.

As Marlee struggles with the hardships of life in the west, Jett finds himself falling for her. And Marlee is drawn to the unexpected soft side of the gruff cowboy. If you like books by Janet Tronstad, Brenda Minton, and Lucy McConnell, then you'll love this touching story and its quaint little town. Saddle up and start this sweet adventure love story today! From USA Today bestselling author Jan Thompson come 10 clean and wholesome, sweet and inspirational contemporary Christian romances set on the beaches of Tybee Island and in the city of Savannah, Georgia, two of the most romantic coastal towns in the world.

Welcome to Savannah, Georgia, in the multicultural new south! Against a backdrop of ocean, sand, and sun, these inspirational romances showcase aspects of the human need for God and for one another. When Heidi Wei becomes his strongest supporter in his church-planting ministry, how does Diego show his feelings for her without giving her the wrong idea? Does she see him as potential husband material or just the pastor of their church? Yet every time they are together, something happens between them.

Have they moved beyond the platonic relationship they have enjoyed all these years to something more personal? Being in love while growing a new church is difficult for him to juggle. Which path is more important? Which one should he focus on? Have some tea, settle on a comfortable reading chair, and enjoy these sweet celebrations of faith, hope, and love in Jesus Christ. Know You More Book 2: Tell You Soon Book 3: Draw You Near Book 4: Cherish You So Book 5: Walk You There Book 6: Love You Always Book 7: Kiss You Now Book 8: Find You Again Book 9: Wish You Joy Book Fans will recognize familiar faces from Riverside Chapel.

In fact, we might visit old friends and beloved families there from time to time. Smile for Me Book 2: Reach for Me Book 3: Wait for Me Book 4: Look for Me Book 5: Share with Me Book 2: Step with Me Book 3: Is there sin that love can't cover? Lydia Brown has taken just about every wrong turn she could find. When an abortion leaves her overwhelmed by guilt, she turns to drugs to escape her pain.

After a single car accident lands her in the hospital facing DUI charges, Lydia is forced to reevaluate her choices. Kevin McGregor has been biding his time since high school when he heard God tell him that Lydia Brown was the woman he would marry. In the aftermath of Lydia's accident, Kevin must come to grips with the truth about her secret life. While Kevin works to convince himself and God that loving Lydia is a mistake, Lydia struggles to accept the feelings she has for Kevin, though she fears her sin may be too much for anyone to forgive.

Contemporary Christian Romantic-Suspense Newspaper reporter Dana Chandler's life is full of "big brothers" without a romantic notion in the bunch. She's watched Alan Richards from across the courtroom for years, admiring him first as a prosecutor for three years then as a judge for the past year. In fact, she spends more time at the courthouse than her office. He's compassionate but thorough, fair but strict. Feared by criminals, he seeks justice for victims of violent crime, a fact she appreciates for her own reasons.

When an old friend is accused of murder, Dana believes he's been set up. She won't allow that to be done to an innocent man, especially the one who saved her life years ago, but the case reminds her of how much she hates puzzles. Then help comes from unexpected quarters, including the judge she's long admired. That's all she needs - another "big brother. Not even her name.

She's been his constant, at least in the courtroom, for four years, but he still doesn't know anything about her. Finally, God opens the door for them to meet. As the danger for Dana grows, Alan devises an unconventional plan The job is an answer to many prayers. Blind herself, Emma dreams of independence and freedom away from her overprotective family. Good soldiers show no weakness.

Ian MacGregor holds his battle with claustrophobia close to his chest, unsuccessfully trying to cope on his own. Ian knows duty, honor, serving his country. So why is he being punished with this very personalized hell? As Ian struggles to strong-arm his phobia, his growing feelings for Emma are overshadowed by the danger lurking around them.

Emma would be better off with someone else. Someone able to protect her from the person determined to keep them apart A brand new series of inspirational romance The Murrells Inlet Miracles series: It'll make you cry. But most of all, it'll make you feel good. Bad boys make good neighbors. On the run and out of options, a desperate Ali Ross knows two things for sure Her ugly past will eventually catch up to her.

And when it does, she'll need a strong and loyal man to help her face the danger head on or risk losing everything. Looking for love and having no luck, former Army Ranger Sam Gleeson knows two things for sure His mysterious new neighbor is wreaking havoc on his heart. And her sweet and seductive charm is playing a captivating game with his head. Hiding from a violent ex-husband, Ali knows the law can't help her.

She also knows someone like Sam can. Fearing for her life, she hatches an impulsive plan that's as old as time. She's willing to do whatever it takes to ensure her safety, and that includes doing the sexy soldier next door. But when their searing chemistry blazes red hot, will Ali's hidden agenda burn them both? Or will Sam be the only victim?

Matt's always known what it was like to live on the high end of society, and where his brother and father love it A creative at heart, he's forced into the world of Accounting to help stand beside the family name and build an empire from the ground up.

His true passion is art, life and love. He's a bit docile in public, and often plays the fool, but something tells her that a very different man exists just beneath the surface. She's willing to wager her career by taking Matt beneath her wing, and hopefully to her bed. There is a cliffhanger, and book two will be out in 3 months, as will each subsequent novel. Fighting deep prejudice against her femininity, her choice of vehicle, and even her heritage, Camara Cole is determined to win the mud-bog racing championship this year.

Her biggest competition seems also to be her worst enemy. Chase Lamar has been racing mud-boggers as long as Camara, and he grudgingly admits she's the best driver-mechanic he knows. Their rivalry has been long and bitter. But Chase is a new Christian. As he begins to change, he finds his relationship with Camara changing, too.

When Camara's vehicle is sabatoged, she naturally blames Chase, despite a growing attraction. Chase must prove his innocence, but evidence points his way. When the smoke clears and the truth is known, will each be able to extend forgiveness, maybe even love? It's Christmas, the first Zane and Dakota spend together.

As they navigate the tricky waters of new feelings and old fears, they will find out what they want most. Not intended for young readers. This is a very short story taking place after the events in ZANE. I am publishing it here due to popular demand. Can a shattered heart become whole?

Cari is struggling to deal with overwhelming grief after the unexpected death of the love of her life, Ben. Left to raise their three young children Cari must find a way to rebuild their lives. After her husband's spirit visits, encouraging her to move on, she toys with the idea of opening a coffee shop.

Known for her baking talents on impulse she posts flyers around town, accepting orders for holiday baking. To her surprise, orders flood in. With a little help from her best friend, Grace and her family, a long dormant dream starts to take shape. As Cari emerges slowly from the sidelines of her life will she find the way to show her children life goes on and true love never dies.

Confessions of a Scoundrel

Evangeline loves Micah, Micah loves Evangeline, and it seems like a perfect Summer—so why is he acting weird? Find out in this sweet best-friends-to-lovers clean romance full of twists and suspense that'll keep you turning pages 'til the very end. Download Still Falling and fall in love along the East River, where a violinist and an NYPD officer grapple with childhood dreams, first love, and the hope of second chances.

But I recommend reading the books in order if you want to follow the overall timeline: My best friend sucks. That old lady down the street sucks as well. They can kiss my pretty little rear if they think they can trick me to get back with Dave Mayers. Their gimmicks are shameless and their advice is persuasive, so this season, they may just get their wish. Intended for mature audience only. Millions of readers have fallen in love with Ava's bestselling books International Bestselling Author Ava Miles presents a sweet and emotional love story about two people who should be wrong for each other but turn out to be so right.

When famous--and infamous--country singer rock star Rye Crenshaw saunters into the diner where she cooks, Tory Simmons is certain she's got him pegged. He's a bad boy Alpha male who indulges himself in all things, women included. But while she couldn't care less about country music or arrogant men, Rye makes her an offer she can't refuse when he asks her to be his private chef on his multi-city concert tour. The job is the answer to all her prayers: Rye is certain his sassy new cook is the last woman who'd ever tempt him, but spending time with the wholesome girl next door will do wonders for his damaged public image, whether she likes being forced into the spotlight or not.

Her food also happens to be the best he's ever eaten, both comforting and seductive. But spending time with Tory on the road shows him a new side to her--one that's as impossible to resist as her food. And when an emergency in his family whisks him home, he does the one thing he's never risked: Soon the emotions Rye faked for the tabloids become all too real, but will the country heaven he's found in Tory's arms survive in the real world? Hannah has a good life. A beautiful home, a loving husband, and a wonderful Amish community are only a few of her daily blessings.

But she has carried a heavy burden for years: Will Hannah be able to face her greatest fear and find God's purpose for her life? To save others' lives, they will risk their own Houston firefighter, Jeff Taylor is a fireman's fireman. He's not afraid of anything, and no situation is too dangerous to keep him on the sideline if lives are at stake.

Lisa Matheson runs a semi-successful ad agency that's on the brink of falling apart.

Her employees are incompetent, and her schedule has become exhausting. When she takes on a client with a brilliant idea for a big conference, she thinks that maybe, finally this is her lucky break. However, the fire station wasn't what she had in mind for finding conference speakers. When she falls for a handsome but shy firefighter, it's possible that life might just be going her way for a change.

The only problem is she can't control Jeff and the death wish he seems to have Filled with faith, hope, and love, Christian romance Kindle books aim to inspire women and men alike while giving them exceptionally romantic love stories they will not soon forget. These real life characters are not perfect but are struggling to learn to live, while finding faith and love in the process.

It can easily fit on your shelf of the most inspirational books. People she had no idea where they had come from were suddenly running in every direction at once. Men, gear, boots, equipment, and then just as the truck roared to life, the last fireman in full gear flashed by her and jumped into the back door. All the air vanished from the earth itself when he slammed that door closed. The blaring continued above her, but she hardly heard it as her eyes blurred against the sight.

Slowly the truck pulled out into the street, leaving her standing alone in the empty station house. Brooke Baker, sold as a mail-order bride, looks to her future with dread but firm resolve. If she survived Uncle Jackson, she can survive anyone. When Sky Jordan hears that his nefarious cousin has sent for a mail-order bride, he knows he has to prevent the marriage. No woman deserves to be left to that fate. But then the unthinkable happens and she holds the key that might save innocent lives but destroy Sky all in one fell swoop.

An Oasis of love. Step into a day when outlaws ran free, the land was wild, and guns blazed at the drop of a hat. Charlotte is a successful romance novelist who escapes city life and moves to the small town of Crispens Point in Blackberry County. She immediately connects with some of the quirky but friendly residents and begins to feel at home right away. When a friend invites her to attend a local community church, Charlotte is attracted to the pastor, but refuses to acknowledge that attraction because of some dark things in her past.

Is it enough to keep her from ever finding a lasting relationship? What is unique about JoHannah Reardon's romances? JoHannah Reardon loves to write "Jane Austin" type of romances in contemporary settings. For example, the pastor's personality in this story is similar to Mr. Darcy' personality in Pride and Prejudice.

Just as Darcy seems one way at the beginning of the book and quite another way at the end, so does the pastor in this story. So, at the start he may not be everyone's idea of a romantic lead, but by the end he proves himself truly loving. Also, you will never find gorgeous women and extremely handsome men in JoHannah Reardon's stories. She prefers to write about the person next door who you may wave to as you pull out of your driveway each day.

Her romances are lighthearted and funny, but not mushy. And her characters' faith informs everything they do. Finding out who killed her brother nine years ago was. But a rockslide put her goal of solving the cold case on ice, even if the heroic stranger who rescued her warms her heart. But as Karen gets closer to the truth that could put his sister behind bars, someone outside the cabin sets it ablaze, attempting to kill them both.

With the storm raging and threats escalating, Adam and Karen depend upon one another to get out alive. Can Adam salvage his growing bond with the one woman who can destroy his family? Featuring rugged heroes in military and law-enforcement careers, the Sacred Bond Guardians books combine romance and mystery, similar to Love Inspired suspense novels. Christian mystery and suspense for your kindle…with a strong element of romance.

This inspirational story of faith and romance will warm and encourage your heart. Jace's Story Book 3. Hundreds of thousands of readers have discovered Pawleys Island Paradise It started as a trip to lose old memories. It became a journey to find her heart. Want more Pawleys Island?

From the author of the Best Spiritual Romance of , Laurie Larsen Christian romance grounded in today's modern world. Scroll up and grab a copy today. You'll be so glad you did! One random act of kindness that will change their lives forever. Tess has given up looking for Mr. When she reads a newspaper article about a young couple who've had everything stolen from their home, including four bridesmaids dresses, she knows she has to help. But by helping the bride, Tess risks exposing a past she doesn't want anyone to know about.

She does everything she can to minimize the danger she's in, but she does the one thing guaranteed to destroy everything - she falls in love with the wrong man. Logan Allen has spent most of his career reporting on the news from around the world. When a letter arrives from Afghanistan, the trauma he's been living with is about to explode back into his life.

From their first random act of kindness comes an experience Logan and Tess will never forget. Each of Leeanna's series are linked so you can find out what happens to your favorite characters in other books. The only problem with them is that I hate coming to the end of one, and can't wait for the next good read. I love how she weaves the characters together, and draws you right into their lives. If you haven't discovered her, please do give her books a try.

You won't be disappointed, except for not having found her sooner! I couldn't put it down. I purchased it today and finished it just now. Captivating story from beginning to end. Definitely a five star book. The Montana Brides Book 1: Forever Dreams Gracie and Trent Book 2: Forever in Love Amy and Nathan Book 3: Forever After Nicky and Sam Book 4: Forever Wishes Erin and Jake Book 5: Forever Cowboy Emily and Alex Book 7: Forever Together Kate and Dan Book 8: All of Me Tess and Logan Book 2: Loving You Annie and Dylan Book 3: Sealed with a Kiss Rachel and John Book 2: Playing for Keeps Sophie and Ryan Book 3: Crazy Love Holly and Daniel Book 4: Safe Haven Hayley and Tank Book 2: Kelly and Tanner Book 3: Always Mallory and Grant Book 4: Now I must say, Verena's butler, Herberts, almost stole the entire show with his antics.

You know what kind of quality you are getting when you get your staff from The Society for Wayward Women's Servant Referral Service and Herbert was hilarious, as Verena constantly has to remind him that no we don't pickpocket our guests and no we don't try on their coats after we remove them. Those were funny scenes in the book. But back to Brandon's buy off of Verena. Once Brandon gets there, he acknowledges that Verena is attractive in a floosy kind of way, I mean gold hair and violet eyes are common, as well as dangerous curves So Verena takes Brandon's money after she negotiates it up to 5,, she ain't stupid.

The she proceeds to make a mockery of Brandon as she has the check made into a table center piece and has a big party so everybody can see Brandon's name on the check. Then if that isn't enough, she has it made into a necklace with his signature boldly displayed. Brandon for his part, didn't find the necklace as shocking as he should have.

As a matter of fact, he liked it all to well. He found out after the fact that his brother Chase had been firmly turned down two days before he had made his grand payoff gesture. So he sets out to show Verena who is boss and storms over to her house to make her pay with his kisses. He can give her two weeks, even though she doesn't meet his criteria of being married, his nether regions are in revolt and will fall off if him and his buddies don't get in with Verena.

It was a cute read and I had a couple of laugh out load moments as Brandon figured out how to deal with Herbert and his pickpocket ways. Oct 22, Farhanah Nurhidayah rated it it was ok Shelves: Honestly, i bought it just because there was a book fair came up last year, the book was cheap and i was in the mood for historical romance. So, i just randomly pick it up and i thought i should give it a go and oh boy, i was wrong. Here's a habit of mine, i do not like read multiple books at the same time and i wont move on unless it was really really bad except for some occasional moment where i was determined to finish this book as a challenge for myself.

The book was bad. I mean like the wri Honestly, i bought it just because there was a book fair came up last year, the book was cheap and i was in the mood for historical romance. I mean like the writing style was okay. Easy words, not hard to follow but sometimes the author wrote like modern consersation at times. Or maybe it just me. The plot was cliche and predictable. In the end, it was right in front of them all along and they lived happily ever after and magic talisman was passed down to the next St. Overall, the book was a waste of time but it was entertaining most at the sex part.

Nov 08, Shasha rated it it was ok Shelves: The title could apply to both the MCs. I was entertained by their first and second meeting but then it became about fighting their lust for each other. The H had some misunderstandings about the heroine that made me uncomfortable and lose interest in their growing relationship.

The spy plot felt vague with obvious villains and made me like this less. The ending was very tidy and happy, so much so that it felt out of place. Overall, not something I want to read again despite some humor and wit. An The title could apply to both the MCs. Jan 18, Jessica rated it it was ok. Nov 14, Barbara Rogers rated it it was amazing. So, none of the brothers want possession of the ring and they pass it back and forth through all sorts of trickery. The oldest brother was snared in the 1st book of the series. This time it is Brandon St.

John who has the ring. Brandon is the 'perfect' one of the bunch -- never makes a social mistake, manages his money well, is always perfectly dressed, etc. Brandon and his brothers are concerned about their brother Chase he'll be book 3 who has not been his usual happy, high-spirited self for a number of months. Chase has taken up with what the brothers consider an inappropriate woman and has even procured a special license. Brandon gets the assignment to buy off the woman so she'll go away and not see Chase anymore. Brandon goes tearing into the home of Lady Verena Westforth in a very pompous, high-handed manner and demands that she leave his brother alone and offers her money.

He already has the bank draft in-hand and gives it to her. She tears it up and throws it about his head like confetti. He keeps insulting her and and finally ends up offering her 5, pounds.

She agrees -- and he sends over the bank draft for the money. She then takes it and has it folded into an origami animal with his signature prominently displayed and uses it in a table arrangement at her next dinner party where she tells everyone the story. After that, she tears his signature off the draft and destroys the rest of it and has a necklace made with the signature displayed in it -- which she wears to a gaming hell. He is so embarrassed and she enjoys ridiculing him.

He soon comes to find she isn't what he thought AND that she had already turned his brother down and sent him away before he ever showed up to buy her off. They are both involved in a bit of intrigue that keeps throwing them together. So, they have to fend of the bad guys and the Home Office and still manage to fall in love. The best part of the book is Verena's butler -- he steals the whole show. You have to read the book just to see his antics. A good read -- I recommend it.

Jan 29, Dianne rated it it was amazing Shelves: This historical romance centers on Brandon St. John, the less than proud current owner of the Talisman ring. Those who follow the legend of the ring believe that whomever carries the ring will find their true love. Of course, Brandon does not believe in the legend.

How could he when he is never interested in a woman beyond two weeks at the most? Brandon is tasked by his brothers to pay off Lady Verena Westfort, the woman his brother Chase is currently interested in. Her father-in-law blames her for the death of his son and has worked to ruin her reputation to the point that she is only accepted by the demimonde. Assuming she is nothing but a tart, Brandon attempts to bribe Verena to leave his brother alone. She accepts his bank draft and then uses it as an ornament for her next dinner party making Brandon the center of much laughter.

The attraction between the two is immediate. They both have a similar sense of humor in the ridiculous and often end up laughing while they battle one another. When it turns out they are both seeking a missing paper, they work together to solve the mystery and foil those who would cause them, and those they care about, harm. I really loved this book.

It had enough of a mystery to keep me interested. The characters were strong and intelligent. Hawkins managed to create characters who interacted and exhibited the usual angst without spending paragraph upon paragraph discussing the woes and problems along the way to true love. This is a book worth reading. I loved this book, but I love every book I have read by Karen Hawkins! She is one of my very favorite authors! Thanks Karen for yet another awesome book! John, the dashing rake must decide whether it is a blessing John, pursued a woman with more fer I loved this book, but I love every book I have read by Karen Hawkins!

John, pursued a woman with more fervor -- but his ardent suit of Lady Verena Westforth has a different purpose. With a sensuous kiss and a passionate caress he intends to lower Verena's guard And now an extraordinary man has entered her life Vulnerable though she may be, Verena vows she will not be just another of Brandon's "conquests," even as she aches to melt in his arms.

But is he a needed friend or a foe in alluring disguise Oct 15, Angela rated it it was ok. For most of this book I couldn't get over the fact that Brandon was under the impression that Verena had slept with his brother AND his best friend. This is all cleared up in one tiny paragraph at the end, but still, it was distracting.

Also, the missing list suddenly became less important to the Home Office for some reason, even though they had been threatening a number of things to retrieve it throughout the book. The whole plot was only half conceived. The final scene with the bad guys happen For most of this book I couldn't get over the fact that Brandon was under the impression that Verena had slept with his brother AND his best friend. The final scene with the bad guys happened really quickly with minimal explanations, then all the drama was promptly forgotten about and a wedding was planned.

Who was driving the runaway coach? Who bonked Verena on the head? Was Chase completely cool with Brandon going after his girl the very girl he planned to Marry via special license at the beginning of this? The unprofessional butler tried to lend the story some humor, but really, it was too little too late. Aug 06, Stefanie rated it really liked it Shelves: I loved both Brandon and Verena!! Brandon is bored, he has nothing in his life he want's to accomplish.

Then one day he wants to save his brother Chase from one of 'those women'. But when he meets Verena himself he's immediatly attracted to her. She's no ordinary woman. And she dares to refuse his money and sprinkle his cheque over his head! Verena is a strong and willful woman. She loves her family dearly but she wants to escape her past. Untill somenody threatens her brother and she needs to hel I loved both Brandon and Verena!!

Untill somenody threatens her brother and she needs to help him. That when the paths of Brandon and Verena keep crossing. Brandon wants her in his bed It's great to see how he tries to woo her, how his feelings for her start to enfold. Verena isn't immune to him, but she's afraid to allow her feelings. Until they decide to face life Dec 03, Brittany rated it did not like it Shelves: By finished, I read the first fifty pages and said "nope".

Jan 20, bell added it Shelves: I found this book tedious and silly. The best part of the story were snip its of overheard conversations of various members of society that prefaced each chapter. There are a whole gaggle of brothers, one brother Chase who is always getting into trouble and always has to be recused from himself, is hanging about with a women who is not considered good company.

Verena, the heroine, is a widow who's father in law blames her for her husbands death. Those were inconsistencies within the story that left me confused. It made no sense. Even when I tried to explain it by saying 'human nature generally flawed', it still didn't make sense that Sera would go seek his forgiveness. At the end, I felt truly sad at a great opportunity missed. The saving grace of this book was Seraphina. Malcolm sadly remained a somewhat silent character, despite his declarations of love and his grand gestures. Grand gestures mean nothing if the little actions are missing.

The ones that are not meant to be seen, at least not straight away, but are so much more powerful when they come out. As a last note: How about anything by Cecilia Grant? Did I mention Sherry Thomas? Actually, there are quite a few examples where authors successfully wrote heroines with so much spine that you'll get an inkling of what women had to go through to get where we are now. The difference to the ham-fisted attempts of The Day of the Duchess? Heroines who are not easily likable, less grand gestures and fairy-tale-like endings, but ultimately a much more emotionally satisfying outcome.

For true fairy tales, I'll still go to Tessa Dare. View all 42 comments. Jun 17, Geri Reads rated it it was amazing. If there were no one—no sisters or god or goddess to protect, no American, no aristocracy to watch and judge? What would you do if I pursued you? The satisfying ending was worth every single heartache I, and the characters, went through. And every emotional moment in this book was earned. Seraphina, Duchess of Haven, is back from exile with a single mission: The Duke however won't let her go without a fight.

He has regretted his actions in the past and is willing to do anything to win his wife back. But he has to contend with a lot of obstacles before he can even begin to fix what he broke years ago. So he concocted a crazy plan. Ask Sera to accompany him on his estate to help him choose her replacement and then she'll get her divorce.

What he didn't know is Seraphina is desperate, too. But for different reasons. And it's something that I totally could relate to. It's something that we take for granted now but was totally not an option for women back then. And this is important to the story and to Sera's character arc and it made me understand her motivation and sympathize with her.

Look at how beautiful you are. Watch how I worship you. These are two people who clearly still love each other desperately but are so desperately broken that they can't see beyond their own pain. Sarah MacLean did a phenomenal job at writing both of these characters at their darkest moments. They both made mistakes. Malcolm's transgression would have been a deal breaker for me if not for the fact that the author was able to convince me that he truly regretted his actions. And some of his actions were not immediately known to Sera.

She didn't know what he's done to make it up to her after she left. And that's one of the beauty of this book. I went through it knowing that these two are still desperately in love and that they deserved each other. I want them to work out their issues because them not being together would be a tragedy. But man, did they have to work for it. But she remembered every note, every word, as though it were a prayer. And perhaps it was. Perhaps she could exorcise the past with it. I mentioned above how much the satisfying ending was so earned.

And this is the reason why. Both characters had to find a common ground first before they could even move on. I don't blame Sera for not trusting Malcolm at his word. What she went through was heart-wrenching. At the same time, as much as I hated what Malcolm did, it was impossible not to be moved by how genuinely sorry he was for the past. And he suffered as well. Of course, Sera's sisters, the Soiled S's are by the far the most interesting ones. But there were characters here who really stood out as well.

Caleb and the ladies that were supposed to vie for the title of the next Duchess of Haven were charming and wonderful. I'm so looking forward to reading Caleb's book. I won't tell you his potential partner. You'd have to read this book to find out. But man, that's going to be another angsty one for sure. The romance was just top-notch. ARC provided by Avon in exchange for an honest review. View all 10 comments. The gallantry of men, the noble ladies, the unconventional heroines, the beautiful words and poetry in the story-telling, they all contribute to my love for this genre.

Sarah Maclean has always been one of my favorites so it was a pleasure and an honor to receive an advanced reading copy for The Day of The Duchess. Malcom Marcus Bevinstoke, Duke of Haven, feels the weight of every single day since his wife left him. Or he told her to leave.

Two years and seven months ago. He has been searching for her since, yearning for the woman he fell in love with all those years ago. Home required more than river and rolling hills. He would search for her. Malcom's search comes to an end when she crashes back into his life and the last parliamentary session in the summer. And what she demands is outrageous as it is painful. Two years and seven months ago Sera almost died giving birth to daughter who didn't survive.

Devastated over the loss of a possible future with the man she ever loved and grieving for the child that didn't live she accepted his callous mother's offer to disappear from his life in exchange for a hefty sum, at the same time freeing him from a barren wife. From the woman who trapped him into marriage. She has come back to give them both what she thinks is best. Freedom for her to run her tavern and for him to take a new wife and produce heirs.

She didn't anticipate Malcolm's opposition - he offers her to agree to a divorce if she spends the summer with him finding him a new wife.

The story is told jumping back and forth between past and present. Sarah Maclean leads us through the history of these two characters with skill and we get to know both hero and heroine very well. He was hers the minute they met. Being the product of a loveless marriage he didn't want that for himself so obviously and understandably, he was immensely hurt by Sera's betrayal.

Malcolm is an amazing character, his remorse and love for his wife is tangible in every word. I fell in love with him right away. I remember the taste of you, like sunshine and peace. I remember the feel of you, heat and silk. I remember the way you gasped, stealing my breath for yourself. The way you offered yourself as prize. Making me believe in you. Before I fell and you triumphed. She never cared about not being fully accepted by society but she fell in love with the Duke and when he didn't ask her to marry him for months she agreed to her mother's suggestion to force his hand.

The reason for him not asking her right away were really sweet I thought. The book is surprisingly angsty and while I'm a sucker for the tightness in my chest when a book is really emotional I thought at some point that it went on a little bit too long. I was so ready for Malcolm's and Sera's Happily Ever After but the heroine was obstinately holding on to her belief that a divorce would be the best for both of them.

It was a little bit frustrating, admittedly. Mistakes were made on both sides but both of them have paid a huge price for them - it was time to wrap the story up. The last couple of chapters and the epilogue made up for that though - so beautifully written. I marked so many passages in this story that made my heart sing and tighten with emotion. She is a master storyteller with a poignant writing style who captures the atmosphere of the Victorian age. I also adored Sera's sisters, who were hilarious and standing loyally by her side. I am very much looking forward to Caleb's and Sesily's story!

Now I need to catch up with the other books in this series - I missed Historical Romance so much! The sorrow is mine. I never told you how much I loved you. I never showed you how I ached to know you. View all 26 comments. All the energy I put into finding a copy of this better be worth it cause I'm officially annoyed and feeling a little stupid right now.

Since Seraphina is the only Talbot sister I liked and the situation with her husband is messy, dark and tormented, my curiosity is piqued. I like messy, I like anti-heroes and I like angst, so you have my attention View all 30 comments. Jun 27, boogenhagen rated it it was ok Shelves: I varied on this between being okay and since the writing was coherent, being almost likable.

Unfortunately I just couldn't get to the likable part. This is the fourth or fifth SMac I have tried and she is just not my cuppa. Part of it is me, I was reading Historical's back in the 70's. You know those ones I mean, and for all the drama, slaps, beatings and rapes, one thing those writers took to heart was time period accuracy. The h's may have been shared, abused, passed around like parcels or chea I varied on this between being okay and since the writing was coherent, being almost likable.

The h's may have been shared, abused, passed around like parcels or cheated on multiple times and stuck in a forced marriage and sold to a harem. But the details surrounding the time period the book was set in were accurate and those writers did some serious research about the customs and behaviors of the day. Divorce was a long and involved and complicated process that took three court cases, gobs of money and YEARS of time, and it was certainly not a pop into the House of Lords and make a request type of situation.

There were only divorces granted between and period. But I heard good things about this book, so I kept reading. I just went into Regency Cos Play with window dressing mode. I can live with that, wallpaper historical's can be entertaining too. Except the cheating H's idear of engineering a reconciliation is to fall back on the very real law at the time that said a husband had complete control of his wife and this particular cheating husband wants to woo his wife back. So he commands her back to his country estate for a visit - well fine I thought, they have to get together some way.

Then the real kicker - the estranged wife is to help him select his next wife in a Regency Cos Play Bachlorette competition - someone better double check the Ducal rose bushes for perfect blooms here. Am I really, really out of touch? Cause I am not exactly seeing how having your deeply wanted reconciliation with your spouse is going to be enhanced by having to 'date' four other women that all come to stay with you and then telling your wife she needs to choose her replacement.

To be fair, the H was very sorry for what he did -- have sex with another woman while the pregger and rejected h walked in on it. The three page list of adjectives describing his remorse convinced me of that. But I wasn't exactly seeing a lot true trying to fix the situation. Like maybe, sending the replacement lady crew off and asking the h to give the marriage a second go There was a grand gesture declamatory speech in the House of Lords at the end as well, right before the H voted for divorce and ended the marriage, but I am not buying a lifetime of happiness by declamation either.

The h was pretty feisty for the period too. She did sorta trap the H, who was perfectly content to keep a well bred debutante as a bit on the side, into marriage cause he only ever wanted a clandestine affair and she had a reputation and sister's to protect. During that time period, an upper class lady HAD to get married if she got caught in the semblance of a close embrace or she was instantly demoted to the prostitute arena and likely her close family with her.

And these two were banging like bunnies when they got interrupted- which was way, way beyond the sensibilities of the era. The H fiercely resented that, so he kicked the h to the curb after her family forced the marriage and then he cheated where she would find him. Again that isn't the most unknown of tropes for that time period. I kept getting thrown out of the story, cause one minute we are in England and the next we are on the set of the Bachelor with some Big Brother thrown in. I wasn't buying it and I did not really enjoy it. I guess they got an HEA, they ended up married and breeding by the end and seemed satisfied they got what they wanted.

I just did not care by that point, the whole thing was too trite and to plot manipulated to make any emotional connection or investment worth it. I think I am just not cut out for this author, and I am sure there is a Mary Balogh or Jo Beverly calling my name on my shelf. I do believe I will go find it. View all 11 comments. THIS is exactly the kind of book I want when I read a second chance romance aka has a groveling hero who is unrelenting in his pursuit to win back the one and only love of his life. I wholeheartedly loved every bit of this wonderful book, and I encourage all historical romance lovers and second chance romance lovers to read this book!

For the past three years, Malcolm Bevingstoke, Duke of Haven, has been searching endlessly for his runaway wife. I love some good angst, and the author gives it to us in huge doses. The same, and somehow entirely different. We get the background of how they met and fell in love… before everything fell apart, before Malcolm hated Sera, before Sera ran away.

Their past is heartbreaking and full of pain — I nearly had tears in my eyes because I felt like I was experiencing every bit of their pain alongside them. Love is not enough. There had been a time when it would have been. His path toward redemption is a bit wonky — having Sera find a replacement wife for him, all the while trying to get her to love him again — but he is definitely not letting her go again, because he never stopped loving her.

I love a good grovel, and Sarah MacLean gave me everything I never knew I wanted in a groveling hero. I shall love you. And I shall grow old in your arms. Luckily, Sarah MacLean surpassed all my expectations in a second chance romance with this beautiful, powerful love story. Everyone needs to experience the wonder that is this book! Thanks to the publisher for generously providing me an ARC to review.

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Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version. Subscribe to Booklovers For Life for more! View all 4 comments.

The Day of the Duchess (Scandal & Scoundrel, #3) by Sarah MacLean

Such a lovely, poignant, passionate, romantic, beautiful, second chance love story! Jun 30, Mei rated it it was ok Shelves: You all remember this one? MacLean books… usually… not so much this series… The premises for an excellent story are all here: I liked better the secondary characters than the main ones! Sometimes it made me actually cringe.

What to say about the so-called hero? Call him an idiot is the least! I was supposed to see him as redeemed?! He was as stupid here as when he was legs up in the pond! What an idiocy is that to ask Sera to find him the substitute wife???!!! As clever as you were when you made her discover you kissing another woman!!! Just out of spite she would cut her own leg!

She hides behind anyone and everything, but first of all she hides from herself!! Ah, the 2 stars are all for the cat! View all 23 comments. Jul 08, StMargarets rated it did not like it Shelves: I saw this at the library and I thought I should break my historical romance drought with something juicy and angsty and controversial. Let's put it this way - it did not rain in my historical romance desert.

This was the strangest book in tone and in world-building. The characters talked and thought like They acted like a horny insta-lust couple who had been steeped in a modern sex positive philosophy. That glibness contrasted greatly with the very real danger of ruin and a dang Oh, dear. That glibness contrasted greatly with the very real danger of ruin and a dangerous pregnancy.

The hero's reaction to being forced to marry was ridiculous. As was his revenge. As were her expectations for marriage in that day and age. The hero was supposed to be an all powerful Duke, but he wasted all of his time on mind games. I didn't believe the heroine walked into the House of Lords and demanded a divorce so she could run a pub. I didn't believe the Bachelor-type reality show the hero conjured up in the last half. Good lord - this isn't a historical - this is an alternate universe.

Things didn't work that way then. We go from the angst fest of the heroine almost dying to a flashback of their flirty banter when they first met. The characters said in their thoughts how much they loved each other, blah, blah, blah - but they sure didn't show it. The Merope story seemed a stretch for these characters. I can see what the author was trying to do and points for including a similar story to highlight this couple's situation- but that sweeping story had a poor imitation in these unlikable characters.

The big gesture of the hero at the end was the prefect bookend to the beginning where the heroine made a spectacle of herself. What ever happened to the stiff upper lip? What about emotions conveyed with the slightest lift of an eyebrow or the slight quiver in a voice? These are historical romance delights - the nuance - the staying within the lines while creating something new and unique. Exploration of public vs private, desire vs. This story didn't explore any of those tensions because those tensions barely existed in this universe. By the end, I was exhausted by both of them and I didn't care if they got together or not.

They seemed to enjoy their drama so much, I don't know if they'll be happy without more reindeer games to play. View all 18 comments. Apr 12, Caz rated it really liked it Shelves: Sarah MacLean concludes her Scandal and Scoundrels series with The Day of the Duchess , the book many of us have been eagerly anticipating since Sophie, youngest of the scandalous Talbot sisters, pushed Malcolm Bevingstoke, Duke of Haven, into an ornamental fish pond in book one, The Rogue Not Taken.

But in spite of that, I was eager to read the story behind a marriage that had obviously disintegrated and descended into bitterness and betrayal and fervently hoped that the author would write it for us. MacLean has done it with considerable aplomb. Haven and Sera met three years earlier and were both immediately smitten. Over the ensuing weeks, Sera and Haven see each other quite often; so often, in fact, as to draw the attention of the gossips. With none of their meetings taking place in public and Haven not even having made the attempt to meet her family, Sera is swayed by the seeds of doubt that her mother plants in her mind.

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When Lady Talbot suggests that Sera engineers a situation that will make sure of Haven once and for all, Sera, who is confident in her heart that Haven does want to marry her, and is just as sure that he is everything she wants, agrees to a secret tryst with him. You can read the rest of this review at All About Romance.

View all 12 comments. Aug 31, Izy rated it it was amazing Shelves: Also a mess but then again when are they not when I have too many feelings. She left without a trace and Malcom has spent this time searching for her, hating himself. Sera after losing the man she loved and then the only thing that connected him to her left her family and went to America.

While Malcom spent the last years going over the past again and again. Sera was thinking of the future and she's back in England, asking Malcom for a divorce. Malcom doesn't want a divorce he wants his wife back so he decides to woo her back by asking her to pick her successor really Malcom?!

I honestly wasn't expecting much from Malcom, I know it's sad since he's the hero but after his behaviour in the first book of this series Rogue Not Taken. I had pretty much written him off and read this only because I wanted to see Sera get her happy ending so I was very surprised in a good way that he turned out to be more than expected and that he had loved Sera from the start how can anyone not fall in love with Sera though?? I already loved Sera and this book made me love her even more, she took what was offered and become stronger and more independent.

Now the only thing standing between her and the future she wants is Malcom. They were adorable, heartbreaking, frustrating and so much in love. Their relationship wasn't easy, it was messy and heartbreaking but also beautiful. They were prefect for each other from they the moment they had met and I loved it that Malcom realised from that moment that she would be his duchess. Their reunion was also extremely satisfying, I loved the underwater scene and gahh it just made so happy to see them happy and I loved it when they finally got back together and that epilogue man heart eyes for days!!

We get to see flashbacks of how they fell in love and how everything went wrong and it's was very heartbreaking. I cried a lot while reading this and while re-reading it!! We get to see both their sides of the events that followed and why they made the decisions they did. I think that's what it made it so great because you see how much they had loved each other and still did. Malcom is so desperate, he hadn't realised before she got hurt that it didn't matter what had happened he couldn't loose her and still loved her but it was too late for Sera, who decides to leave.

I loved that we saw Malcom trying to woo her again even though his plan needed a lot of work apologising for his mistakes and his behaviour. It makes me immensely happy to see good grovel done by men who wronged their significant others. I loved it that Seraphina didn't back down but gave as good as she got and I really loved her.

She loved so much, her family, her husband, her child and when it all came crashing down she decides to what she wants which was singing. Instead of doing what she had done in the past living her life and behaving a certain way for her family and then later for her husband. My feelings for Sera in one gif: It was also great seeing Seraphina's sisters, their antics are as always hilarious and they are just a bunch of lovely, unique to the time period women who you can't help but love and I can't wait to read ''the American" and Sesily's story!

This is coming from her person who hates reading about a cheating in any way I usually avoid those book like the plague so for me to love this book so much was a welcome surprise and I don't regret giving this one a shot at all. Wrapping it up, I went into this just caring for Sera because I wasn't a fan of Malcom at all but Sarah MacLean did an excellent job at redeeming him and making their relationship work. I ended up really loving both of them together and was immensely happy that they got their HEA.

It's a fantastic story of second chance love filled with passion, love, heart break and it's beautifully written! I don't use gifs much at all in my reviews but here are a few describing how I felt during this book:

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