A Counterfeit Betrothal / The Notorious Rake by Mary Balogh

Title: A Counterfeit Betrothal (Waite #2)/ The Notorious Rake (Waite #3)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: 1992

Genre: Romance

Pages: 560

Rating: 2/5 stars

Reading Challenges: UnRead Shelf; Women Authors; Alphabet Soup - B

A COUNTERFEIT BETROTHAL

Lady Sophia Bryant has no intention of marrying anytime soon. Her one desire is to reunite her parents, who have been estranged for fourteen years. Surely, if she happens to announce her betrothal—even a false one—they will be forced to see each other. Devilishly handsome Lord Francis Sutton seems perfect for such deceit, always agreeable to games of passion in which he has nothing to lose. The trap is set—if only Lady Sophia can keep her foolish heart from falling prey to her brilliant snares.

THE NOTORIOUS RAKE

Lord Edmund Waite is everything that Lady Mary Gregg despises: lewd, lascivious, mocking—the most incorrigible and successful rogue around. A bluestocking like her would never tempt a man whose taste runs to pretty playthings—so Mary is startled to find herself the object of Lord Edmund’s desires. Even more surprising is her reaction to his shocking advances. She may be a lady, but this man knows so well how to make her feel like a woman.

Wow! I did not enjoy either one of these stories. All of the relationships were way too problematic for me. I despised how the characters spoke to each other. The romances were not all that believable or interesting. Definitely not a good choice. This volume is obviously going into the to-sell pile.

Waite:

#1 The Trysting Place
#2 A Counterfeit Betrothal
#3 The Notorious Rake

Next up on the TBR pile:

Dark Angel / Lord Crew's Bride by Mary Balogh

Title: Dark Angel (Dark Angel #1)/ Lord Carew’s Bride (Dark Angel #2)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: 1994 / 1995

Genre: Romance

Pages: 624

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: UnRead Shelf; Finishing the Series; Seasonal Series - Over 500 pages

DARK ANGEL
Jennifer Winwood has been engaged for five years to a man she hardly knows but believes to be honorable and good: Lord Lionel Kersey. Suddenly, she becomes the quarry of London’s most notorious womanizer, Gabriel Fisher, the Earl of Thornhill. Jennifer has no idea that she is just a pawn in the long-simmering feud between these two headstrong, irresistible men—or that she will become a prize more valuable than revenge.

Hmmm… So I like most of this book. I enjoyed the intrigue of the dangerous game between Thornhill and Kersey. I enjoyed watching Jennifer fall for Thornhill even though she resisted. I wasn’t a huge fan of their relationship during the last 50 pages of the book. I would have liked more discussion/understanding instead of hostility. I hope we get to see them happier in the next book.

LORD CAREW’S BRIDE
Jennifer’s cousin Samantha Newman is smarting after she too is toyed with by Lord Kersey. In the midst of her heartbreak, she seeks solace from her new friend, the disabled gardener Hartley Wade. If only she knew that Hartley is secretly Lord Carew, and that he hides more than extraordinary wealth: a passionate secret held deep in his heart that only her love can reveal.

I liked this story much more than Dark Angel. Hartley and Sam were much more interesting characters. And I wasn’t as confused by their relationship as I was Gabriel and Jennifer’s. I loved how their relationship progressed. And Kersey was just as much of a villain as in the first book. Definitely a fun read.

Dark Angel:

#1 Dark Angel
#2 Lord Carew’s Bride
#3 The Famous Heroine
#4 The Plumed Bonnet
#5 The Ideal Wife
#6 A Precious Jewel
#7 A Christmas Bride
#8 Christmas Beau

Next up on the TBR pile:

A Precious Jewel by Mary Balogh

Title: A Precious Jewel (Stapleton-Downes #2)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: 1993

Genre: Romance

Pages: 338

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: UnRead Shelf; Monthly Key Word - Jewel; Finishing the Series

She was unlike any woman he’d ever met in the ton or the demimonde. But Sir Gerald Stapleton frequented Mrs. Blyth’s euphemistically dubbed “finishing school” for pure, uncomplicated pleasure–and nothing else. So why was this confirmed bachelor so thoroughly captivated by one woman in particular? Why did he find himself wondering how such a rare jewel of grace, beauty, and refinement as Priss had ended up a courtesan? And when she needed protection, why did Gerald, who’d sworn he’d never get entangled in affairs of the heart, hasten to set her up as his own pampered mistress to ensure her safety–and have her all to himself?

For Priscilla Wentworth, the path leading to Sir Gerald’s bed had been as filled with misfortune as it suddenly seemed charmed. But Priss couldn’t allow herself to believe she’d ever be more to a man like Sir Gerald than a well-cared-for object of pleasure. Now, despite Gerald’s deep distrust of marriage, neither scandal nor society’s censure can keep them apart–only the fear of trusting their hearts.

Another disappointing read. January is really ending up to be a very mixed bag when it comes to books. But anyway… I was not a fan of either of the main characters in this book. Priss was extremely wooden throughout every encounter with other people. I really wanted her to have some kind of personality. And Gerald was a bit of a naive yet pompous ass. For all of Priss’s talk of the worth of Gerald, I just couldn’t really see it. I just really wanted better characters. The previous book, The Ideal Wife, was such a delight. This was the opposite.

Stapleton-Downes:

#1 The Ideal Wife
#2 A Precious Jewel

Dark Angel:

#1 Dark Angel
#2 Lord Carew’s Bride
#3 The Famous Heroine
#4 The Plumed Bonnet
#5 The Ideal Wife
#6 A Precious Jewel
#7 A Christmas Bride
#8 Christmas Beau

Next up on the TBR pile:

The Ideal Wife by Mary Balogh

Title: The Ideal Wife (Stapleton-Downes #1; Dark Angel #5)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: 1991

Genre: Romance

Pages: 339

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: UnRead Shelf; Finishing the Series; Romance

When Abigail Gardiner knocks at the door of Miles Ripley, Earl of Severn, the last thing she expects is a marriage proposal. Desperate, she’d come to this charismatic stranger’s home to plead for her future. Instead she shocks them both by saying yes. Her impulsive decision will have consequences neither she nor her new husband can foresee. For Miles has his own reasons for marrying her. And Abigail is harboring a secret of her own. As distrust gives way to desire . . . as, together, they give in to the pleasures of the marriage bed, a devastating scandal threatens their future. Now these two wary hearts will risk ruin and disgrace for a love that has changed them both forever—the kind all seek, but few ever find

I might be reading the Dark Angel series out of order, but this was written first, so I’m starting here… Also, it’s been on my book shelves for a few years now. Time to read and get rid of it.

I loved this story! Abby and Miles are such great characters. The plot uses a common trope in Regency romances, but I loved how the story evolved from there. We get to know the two main characters very well in just a short amount of time. I loved see how Abby and Miles grew both in their own person and within their marriage. Seriously loved it!

Stapleton-Downes:

#1 The Ideal Wife
#2 A Precious Jewel

Dark Angel:

#1 Dark Angel
#2 Lord Carew’s Bride
#3 The Famous Heroine
#4 The Plumed Bonnet
#5 The Ideal Wife
#6 A Precious Jewel
#7 A Christmas Bride
#8 Christmas Beau

Next up on the TBR pile:

Bedwyn Saga #4-6 by Mary Balogh

Title: Slightly Tempted (Bedwyn Saga #4)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2003

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 384

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Finishing the Series

Young. Ravishing. Exquisitely marriageable. From the moment he spies Lady Morgan Bedwyn across the glittering ballroom, Gervase Ashford, Earl of Rosthorn, knows he has found the perfect instrument of his revenge. But wedlock is not on the mind of the continent’s most notorious rake. Nor is it of interest to the fiercely independent Lady Morgan herself…until one night of shocking intimacy erupts in a scandal that could make Gervase’s vengeance all the sweeter. There is only one thing standing in his way: Morgan, who has achieved the impossible—she’s melted his coolly guarded heart. For Gervase, only the marriage bed will do, but Morgan simply will not have him. Thus begins a sizzling courtship where two wary hearts are about to be undone by the most scandalous passion of all: glorious, all-consuming love.

Eh. I wasn't the biggest fan of this volume. Morgan and Gervase's entire relationship had its issues. I just didn't love how everything played out.

Title: Slightly Sinful (Bedwyn Saga #5)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2004

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 368

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Finishing the Series

As the fires of war raged around him, Lord Alleyne Bedwyn was thrown from his horse and left for dead—only to awaken in the bedchamber of a ladies' brothel. Suddenly the dark, handsome diplomat has no memory of who he is or how he got there—yet of one thing he is certain: The angel who nurses him back to health is the woman he vows to make his own. But like him, Rachel York is not who she seems. A lovely young woman caught up in a desperate circumstance, she must devise a scheme to regain her stolen fortune. The dashing soldier she rescued from near-death could be her savior in disguise. There is just one condition: she must pose as his wife—a masquerade that will embroil them in a sinful scandal, where a man and a woman court impropriety with each daring step...with every taboo kiss that can turn passionate strangers into the truest of lovers.

Oh my. I really loved this one. Rachel and Alleyne were so much fun to follow. I loved every bit of their relationship. Definitely the winner of the series.

Title: Slightly Dangerous (Bedwyn Saga #6)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Delacorte 2004

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 400

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Finishing the Series

All of London is abuzz over the imminent arrival of Wulfric Bedwyn, the reclusive, cold-as-ice Duke of Bewcastle, at the most glittering social event of the season. Some whisper of a tragic love affair. Others say he is so aloof and passionless that not even the greatest beauty could capture his attention. But on this dazzling afternoon, one woman did catch the duke’s eye—and she was the only female in the room who wasn’t even trying. Christine Derrick is intrigued by the handsome duke…all the more so when he invites her to become his mistress.

What red-blooded woman wouldn’t enjoy a tumble in the bedsheets with a consummate lover—with no strings and no questions asked. An infuriating lady with very definite views on men, morals, and marriage, Christine confounds Wulfric at every turn. Yet even as the lone wolf of the Bedwyn clan vows to seduce her any way he can, something strange and wonderful is happening. Now for a man who thought he’d never lose his heart, nothing less than love will do.

With her trademark wit, riveting storytelling, and sizzling sexual sparks, Mary Balogh once again brings together two polar opposites: an irresistible, high-and-mighty aristocrat and the impulsive, pleasure-loving woman who shows him what true passion is all about. A man and a woman so wrong for each other, it can result only in the perfect match.

Not as excited about this volume. It had its entertaining parts, but overall I wasn't that excited. Not quite as weak as the volume featuring Freyja, but still not my favorite at all.

Bedwyn Saga

#0.1 One Night for Love
#0.2 A Summer to Remember
#1 Slightly Married
#2 Slightly Wicked
#3 Slightly Scandalous
#4 Slightly Tempted
#5 Slightly Sinful
#6 Slightly Dangerous

Next up on the TBR pile:

Bedwyn Saga #1-3 by Mary Balogh

Title: Slightly Married (Bedwyn Saga #1)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2003

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 368

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Finishing the Series

Like all the Bedwyn men, Aidan has a reputation for cool arrogance. But this proud nobleman also possesses a loyal, passionate heart—and it is this fierce loyalty that has brought Colonel Lord Aidan to Ringwood Manor to honor a dying soldier's request. Having promised to comfort and protect the man's sister, Aidan never expected to find a headstrong, fiercely independent woman who wants no part of his protection…nor did he expect the feelings this beguiling creature would ignite in his guarded heart. And when a relative threatens to turn Eve out of her home, Aidan gallantly makes her an offer she can't refuse: marry him…if only to save her home. And now, as all of London breathlessly awaits the transformation of the new Lady Aidan Bedwyn, the strangest thing happens: With one touch, one searing embrace, Aidan and Eve's “business arrangement” is about to be transformed…into something slightly surprising.

This one was a treat. Really loved the story of Aidan and Eve.

Title: Slightly Wicked (Bedwyn Saga #2)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2003

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 368

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Finishing the Series

With his laughing eyes and wild, rakish good looks, Lord Rannulf Bedwyn is a hard man to resist. To Judith Law, a woman in need of rescue when her stagecoach overturns, Rannulf is simply her savior, a heroic stranger she will reward with one night of reckless passion before she must become a companion to her wealthy aunt. Imagine Judith's shock when the same stranger turns out to be among England's most eligible bachelors…and when he arrives at Harewood Grange to woo her cousin. Certainly, they had made no vows, no promises, but Rannulf never did forget his uninhibited lover…nor did she forget that one delicious night. And as scandal sets the household abuzz, Rannulf proposes a solution…but when Judith refuses to have him—in love or wedlock—Rannulf has only one choice: to wage a campaign of pure pleasure to capture the heart of the woman who has already won his.

Hmmm... I enjoyed reading this one, but it was a bit much with their "relationship."

Title: Slightly Scandalous (Bedwyn Saga #3)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2003

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 400

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Finishing the Series

Growing up with four unruly brothers has made Freyja Bedwyn far bolder than most society ladies. From feisty manner to long, tumbling hair, Lady Freyja is pure fire, a woman who seeks both adventure and freedom.

Adventure soon finds her on a visit to Bath, when a handsome stranger bursts into Freyja's room and entreats her to hide him. His name is Joshua Moore, Marquess of Hallmere, a man with a hell-raising reputation of his own who is quickly intrigued by the independent beauty. So intrigued, in fact, that he makes her a surprising request: to pose as his fiancée and help thwart his family's matchmaking schemes. For two people determined to be free, it's the perfect plan…until passion blindsides them both. For as Joshua sets out to achieve his complete seduction of Freyja, a woman who has sworn off love is in danger of losing the one thing she never expected to give again: her heart…

Even after reading this decent romance, I've decided that I really don't like Freyja at all.

Bedwyn Saga

#0.1 One Night for Love
#0.2 A Summer to Remember
#1 Slightly Married
#2 Slightly Wicked
#3 Slightly Scandalous
#4 Slightly Tempted
#5 Slightly Sinful
#6 Slightly Dangerous

Next up on the TBR pile:

A Summer to Remember by Mary Balogh

Title: A Summer to Remember (Bedwyn Saga #0.2)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2003

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 384

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Finishing the Series; What's in a Name - Season

Kit Butler is cool, dangerous, one of London’s mostinfamous bachelors—marriage is the last thing on his mind. But Kit’s family has other plans. Desperate to thwart his father’s matchmaking, Kit needs a bride...fast. Enter Miss Lauren Edgeworth.

A year after being abandoned at the altar, Lauren has determined that marriage is not for her. When these two fiercely independent souls meet, sparks fly—and a deal is hatched. Lauren will masquerade as Kit’s intended if he agrees to provide a passionate, adventurous, unforgettable summer. When summer ends, she will break off the engagement, rendering herself unmarriageable and leaving them both free. Everything is going perfectly—until Kit does the unthinkable: He begins to fall in love. A summer to remember is not enough for him. But how can he convince Lauren to be his...for better, for worse, for the rest of their lives?

A fluffy romance was just what I needed this week. I accidentally read the related series to the this one before so the ending was a bit spoiled (although most of these books are easy to predict the endings). I did enjoyed the story of Kit and Lauren. I especially liked seeing Lauren come out of her ice queen shell from the last book. This volume was quick and enjoyable. Just what I like in my Regency Romances.

Bedwyn Saga

#0.1 One Night for Love
#0.2 A Summer to Remember
#1 Slightly Married
#2 Slightly Wicked
#3 Slightly Scandalous
#4 Slightly Tempted
#5 Slightly Sinful
#6 Slightly Dangerous

Next up on the TBR pile:

One Night for Love by Mary Balogh

Title: One Night for Love (Bedwyn Saga #0.1)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 1999

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 384

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR

It was a perfect morning in May . . .

Neville Wyatt, Earl of Kilbourne, awaited his bride at the altar—when a ragged beggar woman raced down the aisle instead. The cream of the ton saw him stare, shocked, then declare that this was his wife!One night of passion was all he remembered as he beheld Lily, the woman he'd wed, loved, and lost on the battlefield in Portugal. Now he said he'd honor his commitment to her—regardless of the gulf that lay between them.

After accidentally reading the Simply Quartet before the Bedwyn Saga (didn't know the quartet was a sequel), I picked up the Bedwyn Saga to read their stories. The first half of the book dragged a bit. Or I should say the first half of the book set in the present dragged for me. I enjoyed the few chapters about the time in the army. The second half definitely picked up the pace and the story. Neville was an okay character, but I really loved Lily and Elizabeth. Great characters! I will definitely be reading the rest of the Bedwyn Saga.

Bedwyn Saga

#0.1 One Night for Love
#0.2 A Summer to Remember
#1 Slightly Married
#2 Slightly Wicked
#3 Slightly Scandalous
#4 Slightly Tempted
#5 Slightly Sinful
#6 Slightly Dangerous

Next up on the TBR pile:

Simply Perfect by Mary Balogh

Title: Simply Perfect (SImply #4)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Bantam Dell 2008

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 448

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR

As headmistress of Miss Martin’s School for Girls in Bath, Claudia Martin long ago resigned herself to a life without love. Until Joseph, Marquess of Attingsborough, arrives unannounced and tempts her to toss away a lifetime of propriety for an affair that can only lead to ruin, embarking on a plan of seduction that leaves them both yearning for more. But Claudia knows she has no place in Joseph’s aristocratic world. And now that world is about to be rocked by scandal.… An arranged marriage, a secret that will shock the ton, and a man from Claudia’s past conspire to drive the lovers apart. But Joseph is determined to make Claudia his at any cost—even if that means breaking every rule for a love that is everything he has ever wanted.…

After finishing Simply Magic I just had to finish out the quartet. At first I wasn't super excited about Claudia's story. I could only see her as the prim schoolmistress. But over the pages, she really grew on me. In the end, I respect her strong sense of self and integrity. I loved how she opened up over the course of the book. And then we get to the romance section. Joseph and Claudia were perfect together and I loved their journey. The big twist was a surprise for me. I should have picked up on the twist, but somehow it took me completely by surprise. Still I loved it. Definitely a good ending to the series.

Simply Quartet:

Next up on the TBR pile:

Simply Magic by Mary Balogh

Title: Simply Magic (SImply #3)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Bantam Dell 2008

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 433

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR

On a splendid August afternoon Susanna Osbourne is introduced to the most handsome man she has ever seen . . . and instantly feels the icy chill of recognition. Peter Edgeworth, Viscount Whitleaf, is utterly charming—and seemingly unaware that they have met before. With his knowing smile and seductive gaze, Peter acts the rake; but he stirs something in Susanna she has never felt before, a yearning that both frightens and dazzles her. Instantly she knows: this brash nobleman poses a threat to her heart . . . and to the secrets she guards so desperately.

Another fluffy romance for this sick week. I fell for Susanna and Viscount Whitleaf immediately and loved them throughout the book. It was a fun adventure following them from Bath and back. Not a ton to really say about this book, but I did enjoy it.

Simply Quartet:

#1 Simply Unforgettable
#2 Simply Love
#3 Simply Magic
#4 Simply Perfect

Next up on the TBR pile:

Simply Love by Mary Balogh

Title: Simply Love (SImply #2)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Bantam Dell 2007

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 448

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR

New York Times bestselling author Mary Balogh returns to the elegance and sensuality of Regency England as she continues the enthralling story of four remarkable women–friends and teachers at Miss Martin’s School for Girls. At the center of this spellbinding novel is Anne Jewell, a teacher haunted by a scandalous past…until she meets a man who teaches her the most important lesson of all: nothing is simple when it comes to love.…

Another fun historical romance while I am down with a cold. I loved the first half of this book. The budding relationship between Anne and Sydnam is great. Their conversations are what kept me turning the pages. But then the second half comes in. The predictable event threw me a bit and I debated putting it down. Thankfully the book redeems itself in the end with growth of both of the main characters.

Simply Quartet:

#1 Simply Unforgettable
#2 Simply Love
#3 Simply Magic
#4 Simply Perfect

Next up on the TBR pile:

Simply Unforgettable by Mary Balogh

Title: Simply Unforgettable (SImply #1)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Bantam Dell 2005

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 422

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Mount TBR; Popsugar --Author from a country I haven't visited

New York Times bestselling author Mary Balogh returns to the seductive world she knows so well–Regency England–in a new novel filled with her trademark wit, sensuality, and breathtaking storytelling. With this, the first in a dazzling new quartet of novels, Balogh invites us into a special world–a select academy for young ladies– a world of innocence and temptation. Drawing us into the lives of four women, teachers at Miss Martin’s School for Girls, Balogh introduces this novel’s marvelous heroine: music teacher Frances Allard–and the man who seduces her with a passion no woman could possibly forget.…

A little fluffy romance was exactly what I needed this week! I was a little wary of the story based on the first three chapters. Thankfully the characters and storyline improved quickly. I really came to love Lucius and Frances. They are such a great pair. And the side characters were amazing, especially the Earl and Amy. Definitely a good start to a series. I an't wait to start the next book...

Simply Quartet:

#1 Simply Unforgettable
#2 Simply Love
#3 Simply Magic
#4 Simply Perfect

dc049a522d84b84f_PS16_JP_Living_2017ReadingChallenge_List_R2-259x1024.jpg

Next up on the TBR pile:

The Secret Mistress by Mary Balogh

Title: The Secret Mistress (Dudley #3)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2011

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 406

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Read My Own Damn Books; 52 Books - W35

While Lady Angeline Dudley’s pedigree dictates that she must land a titled gentleman, the irrepressible beauty longs for a simple, ordinary suitor. So when Edward Ailsbury, the new Earl of Heyward, defends her honor with unmatched civility, Angeline thinks that she has found true love. Persuading the earl is another matter entirely. From her unconventional fashion sense to her hoydenish antics, Angeline is the last woman on earth for Edward. And yet a stolen kiss awakens something primal within him. Naturally, being a gentleman, he does the right thing after compromising a lady: He offers marriage. The proposal is born of duty, but will Angeline cause Edward to forget about decorum behind closed doors, where sensuality and seduction play wicked games? For a proper wife by day can become a husband’s secret mistress by night, when delicious desire rules.

A fitting conclusion to the trilogy. I wasn't overly fond of Angeline or Heyward in the first two books, but I did enjoy reading their story in this volume. A very cute couple doing the will they or won't they dance for almost 350 pages. Finally we get to see them both surrender to their true feelings. Definitely an enjoyable read for this week.

Mistress (Dudley)

No Man's Mistress by Mary Balogh

Title: No Man's Mistress (Dudley #2)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 20001

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 381

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Read My Own Damn Books

The dark, devastating stranger rode into the village fair and wagered twenty pounds at the throwing booth — for a chance to win the daisies in Viola Thornhill’s hair. The Gypsy fortune teller had warned: “Beware of a tall, dark, handsome stranger. He can destroy you — if you do not first snare his heart."

Another fun fluffy romance to occupy my reading time. I think this one was marginally better than the first in the series. Most of that relies on the likability of Ferdinand. Definitely a more likable character than his brother. And Viola was a good foil to his intentions. My only issue with the book was again the ending. I'm sensing a pattern of abrupt endings. I like a bit more drawn out and explained, but oh well. I still enjoyed reading it. On to the last book in the series.,.

Mistress (Dudley)

#1 More Than a Mistress
#2 No Man’s Mistress
#3 The Secret Mistress

More Than a Mistress by Mary Balogh

Title: More Than a Mistress (Dudley #1)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2000

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages:403

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Read My Own Damn Books; Women Authors

She races onto the green, desperate to stop a duel. In the melée, Jocelyn Dudley, Duke of Tresham, is shot. To his astonishment, Tresham finds himself hiring the servant as his nurse. Jane Ingleby is far too bold for her own good. Her blue eyes are the sort a man could drown in—were it not for her impudence. She questions his every move, breaches his secrets, touches his soul. When he offers to set her up in his London town house, love is the last thing on his mind.
Jane tries to pretend it’s strictly business, an arrangement she’s been forced to accept in order to conceal a dangerous secret. Surely there is nothing more perilous than being the lover of such a man. Yet as she gets past his devilish façade and sees the noble heart within, she knows the greatest jeopardy of all, a passion that drives her to risk everything on one perfect month with the improper gentleman who thinks that love is for fools.

Time to dive back into some fluffy romance. I picked up this book because I have all three books sitting in my TBR pile. I almost always read romance series books back-to-back. So on to the book itself. I was a bit turned off by the Duke at the beginning of the story, but he definitely grew on me. The best parts were the conversations between the Duke and Jane in the den. I loved those moments. The only thing I really didn't like was the ending. I hate super abrupt endings and this book has one of those. Oh well, I can ignore the last three pages. I enjoyed the rest of the book. On to the second in the series...

Mistress (Dudley)

#1 More Than a Mistress
#2 No Man's Mistress
#3 The Secret Mistress

The Heart of Christmas

Title: The Heart of Christmas

Author: Mary Balogh, Nicola Cornick, Courtney Milan

Publisher: Harlequin 2009

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 378

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Read My Own Damn Books; Popsugar - Guaranteed to bring me joy

A Handful of Gold
Not only is Julian Dare dashing and wealthy, but he's the heir to an earldom. So what do you get a man who has everything? Innocent and comely Verity Ewing plans on giving Julian her heart—the most precious gift of all.

This story was very cute. I loved Verity and her plan to help her family. My problem with the story was that I wanted to see it as a full length book instead of a novella. I felt like the story has much more left to be told...

The Season for Suitors
After some close encounters with rakes in which she was nearly compromised, heiress Clara Davenport realizes that she needs some expert advice. And who better for the job than Sebastian Fleet, the most notorious rake in town? But the tutelage doesn't go quite as planned, as both Sebastian and Clara find it difficult to remain objective when it comes to lessons of the heart!

This story was my favorite of the collection. I loved the will-they or won't-they romance between Clara and Sebastian. They were great characters! Definitely enjoyed reading this one.

This Wicked Gift
Lavinia Spencer has been saving her hard-earned pennies to provide her family with Christmas dinner. Days before the holiday, her brother is swindled, leaving them owing more than they can ever repay. Until a mysterious benefactor offers to settle the debt. Innocent Lavinia is stunned by what the dashing William White wants in return. Will she exchange a wicked gift for her family's fortune?

My least favorite of the stories, I still enjoyed the story of Lavinia and William. I just didn't quite fall in love with this couple.

Seducing an Angel by Mary Balogh

Title: Seducing an Angel (Huxtable Quintet #4)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2009

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 388

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: TBR Reduction; Mount TBR; Seriously Series

Meet the Huxtables—three headstrong sisters and their dashing brother—each searching for love that’s always a shocking indiscretion away. . . . Here Stephen will risk his reputation and his heart as he enters a scandalous liaison with the infamous beauty intent on seduction. But when passion turns the tables on them both, who can say who has seduced whom?He must be wealthy, wellborn, and want her more than he wants any other woman. Those are the conditions that must be met by the man Cassandra Belmont chooses for her lover. Marriage is out of the question for the destitute widow who stands accused of murdering her husband and must now barter her beauty in order to survive. With seduction in mind, she sets her sights on Stephen Huxtable, the irresistibly attractive Earl of Merton and London’s most eligible bachelor. But Stephen’s first intriguing glimpse of the mysterious, alluring Lady Paget convinces him that he has found the ideal woman to share his bed. There is only one caveat. This relationship fueled by mutual pleasure must be on his terms.

Still pushing through this series. Still liking a majority of the characters. Still allowing the fairly predictable plots. I definitely liked Stephen the best from this book. But I must say that I thought the relationship between Cass and Stephen to be the least realistic so far. I'll still finish the series though. I like my fun fluffy romances from time to time.

Huxtable Quintet

At Last Comes Love by Mary Balogh

Title: At Last Comes Love (Huxtable Quintet #3)

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Dell 2009

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 416

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: TBR Reduction; Mount TBR; 52 Books - W17; Seriously Series

Only desperation could bring Duncan Pennethorne, the infamous Earl of Sheringford, back home after the spectacular scandal that had shocked even the jaded ton. Forced to wed in fifteen days or be cut off without a penny, Duncan chooses the one woman in London in frantic need of a husband. A lie to an old flame forces Margaret Huxtable to accept the irresistible stranger’s offer. But once she discovers who he really is, it’s too late—she’s already betrothed to the wickedly sensual rakehell. Quickly she issues an ultimatum: If Duncan wants her, he must woo her. And as passion slowly ignites, two people marrying for all the wrong reasons are discovering the joys of seduction—and awaiting the exquisite pleasure of what comes after….

Another good fluffy historical romance to cleanse my palate between more serious books. I enjoyed Duncan and Margaret's story, but I'm starting to think that Jasper and Kate was my favorite of the series so far. This one was a bit annoying in that I just wanted Duncan to tell Margaret the truth once and for all. None of this half truths nonsense! Every time he was upset with her reaction, I really wanted to slap him upside the head. Otherwise, I enjoyed reading their story. And the big twist at the end was unpredictable.

Huxtable Quintet

#1 First Comes Marriage
#2 Then Comes Seduction
#3 At Last Comes Love
#4 Seducing an Angel
#5 A Secret Affair

Wedding of the Century by Balogh, James, Featherstone

Title: Wedding of the Century

Author: Mary Balogh, Kristin James, Charlotte Featherstone

Publisher: HQN 2011

Genre: Historical romance

Pages: 384

Rating: Putney 4/5 stars; James 4/5 stars; Featherston 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: T4MC -- Flowers on cover; Romance; TBR Pile; 52 Books -- W33

How I Got It: I own it

The Wedding of the Century by MARY JO PUTNEY
Stunningly beautiful and extraordinarily wealthy, Sarah Vangelder had always wanted more for herself than to be sold into marriage for the price of a dukedom. But marriage to Justin Aubrey might be the adventure she's always dreamed of….

Overall I enjoyed this song. I liked the main characters. Sarah and Justin are likable if a bit melodramatic. But this is a romance short story, so I forgive it. The story is predictable, yet I'm okay with it. However, I knocked the story down a star for the turning point of the story. It's a bit uncomfortable and I'm still not sure where I stand on the ethics behind it.

Jesse's Wife by KRISTIN JAMES
When a late-night walk on her father's ranch inadvertently destroys her reputation, Amy McCallister finds herself married off to Jesse, a sinfully handsome farmhand. But can he convince her to give him her heart, despite their rocky beginning?

Loved this story. It reminded me of all the western themed romances I've read in the past. Very light, very fluffy, very predictable, but still a lot fo fun to read.

Seduced by Starlight by CHARLOTTE FEATHERSTONE
Jase Markham, London's most dashing—and notorious—rake, has loved his brother's fiancée for as long as he can remember. When his brother casts Blossom aside, Jase is determined to finally make her his—if she's willing to overlook his scandalous reputation!

Most definitely my favorite story of the book. I loved the set up between Blossom and Jase. And we get to see the story from Jase's perspective. Very unexpected. I couldn't wait to get to the end of the story. I sped through the pages even with a horrendous headache. Very enjoyable.

A Matter of Class by Mary Balogh

Title: A Matter of Class

Author: Mary Balogh

Publisher: Vanguard Press 2010

Genre: Historical Romance

Pages: 186

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Summer Romance - Historical

Reginald Masson is wealthy refined and by all accounts, a gentleman. However, he is not a gentleman by birth, a factor that pains him and his father. Bernard Mason, with the Regency society that upholds station love all else. That is, until an opportunity for social advancement arises, namely, Lady Annabelle Ashton. Daughter of the Earl of Havercroft, a neighbor and enemy of the Mason family, Annabelle finds herself disgraced by a scandal, one that has left her branded as damaged goods. Besmirched by shame, the earl is only too happy to marry Annabelle off to anyone willing to have her.

Though Bernard wishes to use Annabelle to propel his family up the social ladder, his son does not to marry her, preferring instead to live as the wild, single life he is accustomed to. With this, Bernard serves his son an ultimatum: marry Annabelle, or make do without family funds. Having no choice, Reginald consents and enters into a hostile engagement in which the prospective bride and groom are openly antagonistic, each one resenting the other for their current state of affairs while their respective fathers revel in their suffering.

A most enjoyable read!!! Definitely a most read for fans of Regency romance novels. Usually I find faults with historical romance. Often there are the tired cliches: the rake, the virginal damsel, the villainous cad, the overbearing governess/sister/mother/aunt. Thankfully, those weren't present here. Well not really. Balogh does a wonderfully job at introducing the reader to what seem to be the standard characters. These characters are anything but standard. The books begins like a cliche, but we start to see something more going on. There's a nice weaving of present and flashbacks. The characters, all of them, are intriguing. The books isn't filled with unnecessary sex scenes. overall its a great read. I don't want to give too much of the plot away... so I'll just say that I recommend to fans of good historical romance!