The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After by Julia Quinn

Title: The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After (2nd Epilogues and Violet’s Story)

Author: Julia Quinn

Publisher: Avon 2013

Genre: Romance

Pages: 374

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

Ever wonder what happens after the Happily Ever After?

Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton series remains one of the most beloved among historical romance readers, and this collection of “second epilogues”—stories that take place after the original books end—offers fans more from their favorite characters.

Also unique to this volume is a novella featuring Violet Bridgerton, beloved mother of the eight Bridgerton siblings, in addition to second epilogues for The Duke and I; The Viscount Who Loved Me; An Offer from a Gentleman; Romancing Mister Bridgerton; To Sir Phillip, With Love; When He Was Wicked, It’s in His Kiss; and On the Way to the Wedding sure to satisfy the legions of Julia Quinn fans.

I enjoyed being able to read all the second epilogues for the series. I had been able to read a few (namely books 1-3), but my editions of the rest did not include these stories. I loved Francesca and Michael’s epilogues and Gregory and Lucy’s made me tear up a bit. Overall they were pretty good stories to have. My one big complaint is that the second epilogue to An Offer from a Gentlemen didn’t feature enough Benedict! A travesty!

Bridgerton

#1 The Duke and I
#2 The Viscount Who Loved Me
#3 An Offer from a Gentleman
#4 Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
#5 To Sir Philip, With Love
#6 When He was Wicked
#7 It’s in His Kiss
#8 On the Way to the Wedding
Happily Ever After (2nd Epilogues and Violet’s Story)

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Next up on the TBR pile:

On the Way to the Wedding by Julia Quinn

Title: On the Way to the Wedding (Bridgerton #8)

Author: Julia Quinn

Publisher: Avon

Genre: Romance

Pages: 381

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

A funny thing happened ...

Unlike most men of his acquaintance, Gregory Bridgerton believes in true love. And he is convinced that when he finds the woman of his dreams, he will know in an instant that she is the one. And that is exactly what happened. Except ...

She wasn’t the one. In fact, the ravishing Miss Hermione Watson is in love with another. But her best friend, the ever-practical Lady Lucinda Abernathy, wants to save Hermione from a disastrous alliance, so she offers to help Gregory win her over. But in the process, Lucy falls in love. With Gregory! Except ...

Lucy is engaged. And her uncle is not inclined to let her back out of the betrothal, even once Gregory comes to his senses and realizes that it is Lucy, with her sharp wit and sunny smile, who makes his heart sing. And now, on the way to the wedding, Gregory must risk everything to ensure that when it comes time to kiss the bride, he is the only man standing at the altar ...

And we finally get Gregory’s story! I must say that I liked this one much more than Eloise’s and Colin’s stories, but definitely as much as Benedict’s and Francesca’s stories. We just don’t get enough of Gregory’s own personality to make this a 5 star book. I did completely adore Lucy and loved following her story. As an added bonus, we get a very fast-paced tense situation at the conclusion of this novel. A bit of a departure from the rest of the Bridgerton books. I really enjoyed the action sequences. I did want more steamy scenes (seriously such a lack in this one), but overall I thoroughly enjoyed the ending to the series.

For the record, my favorite overall book from the series is When He was Wicked featuring Francesca and Michael. But my favorite character pairing is Benedict and Sophie featured in An Offer from a Gentleman. Seriously, I would have totally picked Benedict out of all the male leads in the series.

Bridgerton

#1 The Duke and I
#2 The Viscount Who Loved Me
#3 An Offer from a Gentleman
#4 Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
#5 To Sir Philip, With Love
#6 When He was Wicked
#7 It’s in His Kiss
#8 On the Way to the Wedding
Happily Ever After (2nd Epilogues and Violet’s Story)

Next up on the TBR pile:

It's in His Kiss by Julia Quinn

Title: Romancing Mister Bridgerton (Bridgerton #7)

Author: Julia Quinn

Publisher: Avon

Genre: Romance

Pages: 407

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance; UnRead Shelf

Meet Our Hero . . .

Gareth St. Clair is in a bind. His father, who detests him, is determined to beggar the St. Clair estates and ruin his inheritance. Gareth’s sole bequest is an old family diary, which may or may not contain the secrets of his past . . . and the key to his future. The problem is—it’s written in Italian, of which Gareth speaks not a word.

Meet Our Heroine . . .

All the ton agreed: there was no one quite like Hyacinth Bridgerton. She’s fiendishly smart, devilishly outspoken, and according to Gareth, probably best in small doses. But there’s something about her—something charming and vexing—that grabs him and won’t quite let go . . .

Meet Poor Mr. Mozart . . .

Or don’t. But rest assured, he’s spinning in his grave when Gareth and Hyacinth cross paths at the annual—and annually discordant—Smythe-Smith musicale. To Hyacinth, Gareth’s every word seems a dare, and she offers to translate his diary, even though her Italian is slightly less than perfect. But as they delve into the mysterious text, they discover that the answers they seek lie not in the diary, but in each other . . . and that there is nothing as simple—or as complicated—as a single, perfect kiss.

Another enjoyable historical romance. I was hoping that Hyacinth would get a glorious love story and thankfully she gets Gareth. He is who really makes this book so enjoyable. I loved the banter between him and Hyacinth and the banter between him and Lady Danbury. So lovely! I do love a book with witty dialogue. The Romance is good, but those scenes became less important than the connection between the two main characters. The mystery was a nice addition to liven up the book. I’m hoping that the series finishes off strong with Gregory’s story.

Bridgerton

#1 The Duke and I
#2 The Viscount Who Loved Me
#3 An Offer from a Gentleman
#4 Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
#5 To Sir Philip, With Love
#6 When He was Wicked
#7 It’s in His Kiss
#8 On the Way to the Wedding
Happily Ever After (2nd Epilogues and Violet’s Story)

Next up on the TBR pile:

Once Upon a Maiden Lane by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Once Upon a Maiden Lane (Maiden Lane #12.5)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2017

Genre: Romance

Pages: 130

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

Miss Mary Whitsun is far too intelligent to fall for the rakish charms of a handsome aristocrat. But when the gentleman in question approaches her in a bookshop, mistaking her for his fiancée, Lady Johanna Albright, the flirtatious encounter only raises more questions. Could Mary, a servant raised in a St Giles orphanage, actually be Lady Joanna's long-lost twin sister? If so, Mary has been betrothed since birth---to the rakishly handsome artistocrat himself . . .
Henry Collins, Viscount Blackwell, is far too intrigued by Mary to let her go so easily. He's drawn to her sharp mind, indomitable spirit, and the fiery way in which she dismisses him---ladies simply don't dismiss Lord Blackwell. But as Mary makes her first hesitant steps into society, she can't help but wonder if she truly has a place in Henry's world---or in his heart.

Decent little story featuring Mary Whitsun, but I wasn’t super excited. We didn’t get to know Mary as much as I wanted. Plus, the sex scenes were a bit strange. I think because I was still thinking of Mary as a young teenagers. Kind of strange.

Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Once Upon a Moonlit Night by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Once Upon a Moonlit Night (Maiden Lane #10.5)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2017

Genre: Romance

Pages: 87

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

Hippolyta Royle is running for her life. Pursued by hounds on a cold rainy night, the heiress flags down a passing carriage and throws herself at the mercy of the coach's occupant. Whoever this handsome traveler may be, he is her only hope to escape a terrible fate. But should he agree to escort her to safety, he's in for much more than he bargained for . . .

At first Matthew Mortimer doesn't believe Hippolyta's story, that she's a fabulously wealthy heiress who's been kidnapped. He assumes she's a beggar, an actress, or worse. But once his new travel companion washes the mud from her surprisingly lovely face, and they share a breathtaking kiss, there is no turning back . . .

A fun little interlude story in the series that follows-up with what happened during Duke of Sin. I wish we would have been able to get more of Hippolyta’s story, but I guess this will have to do. At least we get a bit of a conclusion to the mystery blackmail from the Duke of Montgomery. To be honest, I loved Matthew much more than Hippolyta. Entertaining novella to add to the collection.

Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Once Upon a Christmas Eve by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Once Upon a Christmas Eve (Maiden Lane #10.7)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2017

Genre: Romance

Pages: 85

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

Adam Rutledge, Viscount d'Arque, really rather loathes Christmas. The banal cheerfulness. The asinine party games. And, worst of all, the obligatory trip to the countryside. His grandmother, however, loves the holiday---and Adam loves his grandmother, so he'll brave the fiercest snowstorm to please her. But when their carriage wheel snaps, they're forced to seek shelter at the home of the most maddening, infuriating, and utterly beguiling woman he's ever met . . .
Sarah St. John really rather loathes rakes. The self-satisfied smirks. The sly predatory gazes. Oh, and the constant witty banter rife with double meaning. But in the spirit of the season, she'll welcome this admittedly handsome viscount into her home. But as the snowstorm rages, the Yule log crackles, and the tension rises, Sarah and Adam find themselves locked in a fiery, passionate kiss. If love is the true meaning of Christmas, it's the one gift this mismatched pair can't wait to unwrap.

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Duke of Desire by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Duke of Desire (Maiden Lane #12)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2016

Genre: Romance

Pages: 308

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

A Lady of the Light Refined, kind, and intelligent, Lady Iris Jordan finds herself the unlikely target of a diabolical kidnapping. Her captors are the notoriously evil Lords of Chaos. When one of the masked---and nude!---Lords spirits her away to his carriage, she shoots him . . . only to find she may have been a trifle hasty. A Duke in Deepest Darkness Cynical, scarred, and brooding, Raphael de Chartres, the Duke of Dyemore, has made it his personal mission to infiltrate the Lords of Chaos and destroy them. Rescuing Lady Jordan was never in his plans. But now with the Lords out to kill them both, he has but one choice: marry the lady in order to keep her safe. Caught in a Web of Danger . . . And Desire Much to Raphael's irritation, Iris insists on being the sort of duchess who involves herself in his life---and bed. Soon he's drawn both to her quick wit and her fiery passion. But when Iris discovers that Raphael's past may be even more dangerous than the present, she falters. Is their love strong enough to withstand not only the Lords of Chaos but also Raphael's own demons?

CW: Rape, sexual assault, child abuse

A strong showing for the Maiden Lane with Raphael and Iris’s love story. I fell for Raphael after his appearance in the previous book. I desperately wanted to hear his story and find a conclusion to the Lords of Chaos storyline. We get both in this book, but with many many depressing and troubling scenes and stories. It was a bit hard to get through, especially when Raphael tells his story. The book was very dark. I have enjoyed the mysteries and adventures throughout the series, but this one really took it to a new level. Beyond those portions, I did enjoy watching Raphael and Iris fall in love. Their scenes were very steamy. Not my absolute favorite, but I really did enjoy this volume.

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Duke of Pleasure by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Duke of Pleasure (Maiden Lane #11)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2016

Genre: Romance

Pages: 337

Rating: 3/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

IN THE ARMS OF DANGER
Bold. Brave. Brutally handsome. Hugh Fitzroy, the Duke of Kyle, is the king's secret weapon. Sent to defeat the notorious Lords of Chaos, he is ambushed in a London alley-and rescued by an unlikely ally: a masked stranger with the unmistakable curves of a woman.

IN THE HEAT OF DESIRE
Cocky. Clever. Courageously independent. Alf has survived on the perilous streets of St. Giles by disguising her sex. By day she is a boy, dealing in information and secrets. By night she's the notorious Ghost of St. Giles, a masked vigilante. But as she saves Hugh from assassins, she finds herself succumbing to temptation . . .

ONE KISS WILL CHANGE THEIR LIVES FOREVER
When Hugh hires Alf to investigate the Lords of Chaos, her worlds collide. Once Hugh realizes that the boy and the Ghost are the same, will Alf find the courage to become the woman she needs to be-before the Lords of Chaos destroy them both?

I have thoroughly enjoyed the Maiden Lane series, but I just didn’t love this one. I did enjoy the larger mystery of the Lords of Chaos and the intrigues there. But I just didn’t connect to the romance between Alf and Hugh. There was too many questionable interactions involving consent. And then we get the whole High thinking Alf was a boy and then very quickly realizing that she wasn’t and engaging in a sexual relationship. I just couldn’t get behind their relationship Disappointing to me. And this was extra disappointing as it came after Valentine’s story that I absolutely adored. Things are looking up for the next book focused on the Duke of Dyemore.

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Duke of Sin by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Duke of Sin (Maiden Lane #10)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2016

Genre: Romance

Pages: 369

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

A MAN OF SIN
Devastatingly handsome. Vain. Unscrupulous. Valentine Napier, the Duke of Montgomery, is the man London whispers about in boudoirs and back alleys. A notorious rake and blackmailer, Montgomery has returned from exile, intent on seeking revenge on those who have wronged him. But what he finds in his own bedroom may lay waste to all his plans.

A WOMAN OF HONOR
Born a bastard, housekeeper Bridget Crumb is clever, bold, and fiercely loyal. When her aristocratic mother becomes the target of extortion, Bridget joins the Duke of Montgomery's household to search for the incriminating evidence-and uncovers something far more dangerous.

A SECRET THAT THREATENS TO DESTROY THEM BOTH
Astonished by the deceptively prim-and surprisingly witty-domestic spy in his chambers, Montgomery is intrigued. And try as she might, Bridget can't resist the slyly charming duke. Now as the two begin their treacherous game of cat and mouse, they soon realize that they both have secrets-and neither may be as nefarious-or as innocent-as they appear . . .

And the series has returned to the unbelievably steamy fun romp! I was intrigued by Valentine in the previous books and was so glad that he gets his own book! I absolutely fell for Val from the first chapter of this one (really from the last chapters of the previous book). I needed to see where Val’s journey led him and all the secrets of Bridget’s past. I’m so glad that Hoyt didn’t make Valentine a White Knight, but made his growth much more realistic to his original appearance. And Val definitely brought the steam factor. Oh goodness! He was so wicked! I loved very single minute of this book. I’m not sure any of the rest of the book will be able to top this one.

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

When He was Wicked by Julia Quinn

Title: When He was Wicked (Bridgerton #6)

Author: Julia Quinn

Publisher: Avon

Genre: Romance

Pages: 426

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance; UnRead Shelf

In every life there is a turning point . . .

A moment so tremendous, so sharp and breathtaking, that one knows one's life will never be the same. For Michael Stirling, London's most infamous rake, that moment came the first time he laid eyes on Francesca Bridgerton.

After a lifetime of chasing women, of smiling slyly as they chased him, of allowing himself to be caught but never permitting his heart to become engaged, he took one look at Francesca Bridgerton and fell so fast and hard into love it was a wonder he managed to remain standing. Unfortunately for Michael, however, Francesca's surname was to remain Bridgerton for only a mere thirty-six hours longer—the occasion of their meeting was, lamentably, a supper celebrating her imminent wedding to his cousin.

But that was then . . . Now Michael is the earl and Francesca is free, but still she thinks of him as nothing other than her dear friend and confidant. Michael dares not speak to her of his love . . . until one dangerous night, when she steps innocently into his arms and passion proves stronger than even the most wicked of secrets . ..

Another very enjoyable volume of the Bridgerton saga. I had been wondering about Francesca’s story since the first book. She always seemed to be the lost Bridgerton sibling. We finally get to understand her a little bit better and learn why she was in Scotland during most of the first few books. I loved Francesca and Michael’s relationship, but wished to have spent a bit more time with them after they got together. Plus, no epilogue! That was a bit disappointing. I always want just a little bit more. Only two more siblings to go and I’m hoping that their stories are interesting and romantic.

Bridgerton

#1 The Duke and I
#2 The Viscount Who Loved Me
#3 An Offer from a Gentleman
#4 Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
#5 To Sir Philip, With Love
#6 When He was Wicked
#7 It’s in His Kiss
#8 On the Way to the Wedding
Happily Ever After (2nd Epilogues and Violet’s Story)

Next up on the TBR pile:

To Sir Phillip, With Love by Julia Quinn

Title: To Sir Phillip, With Love (Bridgerton #5)

Author: Julia Quinn

Publisher: Avon 2017

Genre: Romance

Pages: 426

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

She wrote him a letter...and he stole her heart.

Sir Phillip knew that Eloise Bridgerton was a spinster, and so he’d proposed, figuring that she’d be homely and unassuming, and more than a little desperate for an offer of marriage. Except . . . she wasn’t. The beautiful woman on his doorstep was anything but quiet, and when she stopped talking long enough to close her mouth, all he wanted to do was kiss her . . . and more.

Did he think she was mad? Eloise Bridgerton couldn’t marry a man she had never met! But then she started thinking . . . and wondering . . . and before she knew it, she was in a hired carriage in the middle of the night, on her way to meet the man she hoped might be her perfect match. Except . . . he wasn’t. Her perfect husband wouldn’t be so moody and ill-mannered, and while Phillip was certainly handsome, he was a large brute of a man, rough and rugged, and totally unlike the London gentlemen vying for her hand. But when he smiled . . . and when he kissed her . . . the rest of the world simply fell away, and she couldn’t help but wonder . . . could this imperfect man be perfect for her?

Another thoroughly enjoyable Regency romance! I had really enjoyed the glimpses of Eloise in the previous books so it was nice to read her story. Unlike the last book, we actually come to understand what each person sees in the other. I was invested in their romance. But the real star of the show was the twins Amanda and Oliver. I loved their interactions with Eloise so much! In addition to all that, we get appearances from Anthony, Benedict, Sophie, Colin, and Gregory. I don’t think this volume can top Anthony or Benedict’s stories, but I loved reading it.

Bridgerton

#1 The Duke and I
#2 The Viscount Who Loved Me
#3 An Offer from a Gentleman
#4 Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
#5 To Sir Philip, With Love
#6 When He was Wicked
#7 It’s in His Kiss
#8 On the Way to the Wedding
Happily Ever After (2nd Epilogues and Violet’s Story)

Next up on the TBR pile:

Sweetest Scoundrel by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Sweetest Scoundrel (Maiden Lane #9)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2015

Genre: Romance

Pages: 368

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance; Unread Shelf

SHE'S TAKING CHARGE
Prim, proper, and thrifty, Eve Dinwoody is all business when it comes to protecting her brother's investment. But when she agrees to control the purse strings of London's premier pleasure garden, Harte's Folly, she finds herself butting heads with an infuriating scoundrel who can't be controlled.

HE'S RUNNING THE SHOW
Bawdy and bold, Asa Makepeace doesn't have time for a penny-pinching prude like Eve. As the garden's larger-than-life owner, he's already dealing with self-centered sopranos and temperamental tenors. He's not about to let an aristocratic woman boss him around . . . no matter how enticing she is.

BUT LOVE CONQUERS ALL
In spite of her lack of theatrical experience-and her fiery clashes with Asa-Eve is determined to turn Harte's Folly into a smashing success. But the harder she tries to manage the stubborn rake, the harder it is to ignore his seductive charm and raw magnetism. There's no denying the smoldering fire between them-and trying to put it out would be the greatest folly of all . . .

Another very enjoyable volume in the Maiden Lane series. We finally, finally get to see more of Asa Makepeace. What we saw was enjoyable but not to the level of my favorite male leads from the series. Beyond Asa, I was pretty lukewarm on Eve. She just didn’t have enough to her to make me really love her. I would have like to have seen more discussions between her and Asa, but alas, we get a lot of weird sexual encounters. I wasn’t really here for their steamy scenes. They didn’t feel all that steamy to me. I enjoyed the book, but this isn’t going into my Top 3 for the series. I was intrigued with the parts involving Bridget Crumb and the Duke of Montgomery’s house. I cannot wait to read their story next!

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Dearest Rogue by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Dearest Rogue (Maiden Lane #8)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2015

Genre: Romance

Pages: 353

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

HE CAN GUARD HER
Lady Phoebe Batten is pretty, vivacious, and yearning for a social life befitting the sister of a powerful duke. But because she is almost completely blind, her overprotective brother insists that she have an armed bodyguard by her side at all times-the very irritating Captain Trevillion.

FROM EVERY DANGER
Captain James Trevillion is proud, brooding, and cursed with a leg injury from his service in the King's dragoons. Yet he can still shoot and ride like the devil, so watching over the distracting Lady Phoebe should be no problem at all-until she's targeted by kidnappers.

BUT PASSION ITSELF
Caught in a deadly web of deceit, James must risk life and limb to save his charge from the lowest of cads-one who would force Lady Phoebe into a loveless marriage. But while they're confined to close quarters for her safekeeping, Phoebe begins to see the tender man beneath the soldier's hard exterior . . . and the possibility of a life-and love-she never imagined possible.

Captain Trevillion has been an intriguing figure for the entire series. I’m so glad he got his own book and romance. And I have liked Phoebe since she was introduced. I am less enamored with the two of them together. I would have liked a bit more talking and exploration of past events and wanted futures. At times, their relationship felt a bit too paternal on his part. They come together in the end. Plus, I really loved seeing James’s family and meeting Agnes in particular. The best part were the chapter featuring the Duke of Montgomery. I’m very intrigued by him. He reminds me of Lord Caire from the first book. Maybe his story will get a 5 star rating from me. For this book, I still really love the entire series and felt that this book was a very enjoyable volume (but Captain Trevillion can’t beat Lord Caire or the Duke or Wakefield or Winter Makepeace).

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Darling Beast by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Darling Beast (Maiden Lane #7)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2014

Genre: Romance

Pages: 352

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance; Unread Shelf

A MAN CONDEMNED . . .
Falsely accused of murder and mute from a near-fatal beating, Apollo Greaves, Viscount Kilbourne has escaped from Bedlam. With the Crown's soldiers at his heels, he finds refuge in the ruins of a pleasure garden, toiling as a simple gardener. But when a vivacious young woman moves in, he's quickly driven to distraction . . .

A DESPERATE WOMAN . . .
London's premier actress, Lily Stump, is down on her luck when she's forced to move into a scorched theatre with her maid and small son. But she and her tiny family aren't the only inhabitants-a silent, hulking beast of a man also calls the charred ruins home. Yet when she catches him reading her plays, Lily realizes there's more to this man than meets the eye.

OUT OF ASH, DESIRE FLARES
Though scorching passion draws them together, Apollo knows that Lily is keeping secrets. When his past catches up with him, he's forced to make a choice: his love for Lily . . . or the explosive truth that will set him free.

Another successful historical romance in the series. This isn’t my favorite in the series, but I still really really enjoyed this one. Apollo and Lily are great characters and I loved watching them fall for each other despite all the obstacles in their way. I still love that this series adds in a bit of external conflict. That bit of extra really adds to the layer. These books are much less whiny than other historical romances I’ve read. The steamy scenes in this one are definitely very steamy. Just how I like them. I sped read this one in less than two days, but I’m really excited to read the Captain and Phoebe’s book next.

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Duke of Midnight by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Duke of Midnight (Maiden Lane #6)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2013

Genre: Romance

Pages: 297

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance; Unread Shelf

WHEN A MASKED MAN . . .
Twenty years ago Maximus Batten witnessed the brutal murders of his parents. Now the autocratic Duke of Wakefield, he spends his days ruling Parliament. But by night, disguised as the Ghost of St. Giles, he prowls the grim alleys of St. Giles, ever on the hunt for the murderer. One night he finds a fiery woman who meets him toe-to-toe-and won't back down . . .

MEETS HIS MATCH . . .
Artemis Greaves toils as a lady's companion, but hiding beneath the plain brown serge of her dress is the heart of a huntress. When the Ghost of St. Giles rescues her from footpads, she recognizes a kindred spirit-and is intrigued. She's even more intrigued when she realizes who exactly the notorious Ghost is by day . . .

DESIRE IGNITES A DANGEROUS PASSION
Artemis makes a bold move: she demands that Maximus use his influence to free her imprisoned brother-or she will expose him as the Ghost. But blackmailing a powerful duke isn't without risks. Now that she has the tiger by the tail, can she withstand his ire-or the temptation of his embrace?

After the incredibly boring last read, I needed something that I could rely on to bring me back. Thank goodness I had the next Maiden Lane book just sitting on my nightstand. We finally get Maximus and Artemis’s romance in this volume. I’ve been waiting for these characters to be featured and we finally get there and it’s really really good! I love that these books mix the steamy romance with a bigger mystery or adventure. We solve the mystery of Maximus’s (and Hero’s and Phoebe’s) parents murder and we see Apollo Greaves being rescued from Bedlam. I loved both main characters. I loved watching them stick to their characters while learning to love each other and finding a place in society. Maximus always came off like a statue in the previous books and I’m glad we got to see inside in this one. Such a great volume! I’d say that this is my third (a very close third) favorite book in the series so far. I still love Temperance and Lazarus and Winter and Isabel just a bit more.

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn

Title: Romancing Mister Bridgerton (Bridgerton #4)

Author: Julia Quinn

Publisher: Avon

Genre: Romance

Pages: 418

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance; UnRead Shelf

Everyone knows that Colin Bridgerton is the most charming man in London . . .

Penelope Featherington has secretly adored her best friend's brother for . . . well, it feels like forever. After half a lifetime of watching Colin Bridgerton from afar, she thinks she knows everything about him, until she stumbles across his deepest secret . . . and fears she doesn't know him at all.

Colin Bridgerton is tired of being thought of as nothing but an empty-headed charmer, tired of the notorious gossip columnist Lady Whistledown, who can't seem to publish an edition without mentioning him. But when Colin returns to London from a trip abroad, he discovers nothing in his life is quite the same—especially Penelope Featherington! The girl who was always simply there is suddenly the girl haunting his dreams. When he discovers that Penelope has secrets of her own, this elusive bachelor must decide . . . is she his biggest threat— or his promise of a happy ending?

This one was a bit of a let down. I have absolutely loved Colin every time that he appears in the books so far. He’s such a delightful character! I wanted to absolutely love his story with Penelope. As for her, I did enjoy the glimpses that we got of Penelope in the previous books. I did want to know more about her. So I was excited that we finally got their story. It just wasn’t that exciting or romantic at all. Colin was a bit of a wet blanket and Penelope wasn’t that interesting. Their chemistry was practically non-existent. I just didn’t feel the sexual tension between these two characters like the previous books. Here’s hoping the next book is better.

Bridgerton

#1 The Duke and I
#2 The Viscount Who Loved Me
#3 An Offer from a Gentleman
#4 Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
#5 To Sir Philip, With Love
#6 When He was Wicked
#7 It’s in His Kiss
#8 On the Way to the Wedding
Happily Ever After (2nd Epilogues and Violet’s Story)

Next up on the TBR pile:

An Offer from a Gentleman by Julia Quinn

Title: An Offer from a Gentleman (Bridgerton #3)

Author: Julia Quinn

Publisher: Avon 2015

Genre: Romance

Pages: 390

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance; UnRead Shelf

Sophie Beckett never dreamed she'd be able to sneak into Lady Bridgerton's famed masquerade ball—or that "Prince Charming" would be waiting there for her! Though the daughter of an earl, Sophie has been relegated to the role of servant by her disdainful stepmother. But now, spinning in the strong arms of the debonair and devastatingly handsome Benedict Bridgerton, she feels like royalty. Alas, she knows all enchantments must end when the clock strikes midnight.

Ever since that magical night, a radiant vision in silver has blinded Benedict to the attractions of any other—except, perhaps, this alluring and oddly familiar beauty dressed in housemaid's garb whom he feels compelled to rescue from a most disagreeable situation. He has sworn to find and wed his mystery miss, but this breathtaking maid makes him weak with wanting her. Yet, if he offers her his heart, will Benedict sacrifice his only chance for a fairy tale love?

Another lovely romance! I loved the set-up with this one. A Cinderella-esque story was just what I needed this week. It starts out so predictable, but them we really get to know Benedict and Sophie and things get more interesting. I loved their romance so very very much. I couldn’t wait to see how they would navigate the seemingly impossible connection. I loved that we get more interactions with the Bridgerton family, especially Violet. It was even nice to see what happened the Sophie’s stepsister Posy in the end. But most, I loved the romance getting to know Benedict so much more. (He might just be my favorite Bridgerton.)

Bridgerton

#1 The Duke and I
#2 The Viscount Who Loved Me
#3 An Offer from a Gentleman
#4 Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
#5 To Sir Philip, With Love
#6 When He was Wicked
#7 It’s in His Kiss
#8 On the Way to the Wedding
Happily Ever After (2nd Epilogues and Violet’s Story)

Next up on the TBR pile:

The Viscount Who Loved Me by Julia Quinn

Title: The Viscount Who Loved Me (Bridgerton #2)

Author: Julia Quinn

Publisher: Avon 2015

Genre: Romance

Pages: 398

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

1814 promises to be another eventful season, but not, This Author believes, for Anthony Bridgerton, London's most elusive bachelor, who has shown no indication that he plans to marry. And in all truth, why should he? When it comes to playing the consummate rake, nobody does it better... --Lady Whistledown's Society Papers, April 1814

But this time the gossip columnists have it wrong. Anthony Bridgerton hasn't just decided to marry--he's even chosen a wife! The only obstacle is his intended's older sister, Kate Sheffield--the most meddlesome woman ever to grace a London ballroom. The spirited schemer is driving Anthony mad with her determination to stop the betrothal, but when he closes his eyes at night, Kate's the woman haunting his increasingly erotic dreams...

Contrary to popular belief, Kate is quite sure that reformed rakes do not make the best husbands--and Anthony Bridgerton is the most wicked rogue of them all. Kate's determined to protect her sister--but she fears her own heart is vulnerable. And when Anthony's lips touch hers, she's suddenly afraid she might not be able to resist the reprehensible rake herself...

I really loved the first book in the series, but somehow I loved this one even more. Anthony and Kate are such amazing characters! We get two very strong-willed people attempting to do what’s right and failing to see the happily ever after right in front of their faces. These two were very frustrating but in such a good way. I was rooting for them the entire time. I love how we get to really see two adults find romance and understanding within the strict bounds of Regency society. I can’t wait to read about Benedict’s story!

Bridgerton

#1 The Duke and I
#2 The Viscount Who Loved Me
#3 An Offer from a Gentleman
#4 Romancing Mr. Bridgerton
#5 To Sir Philip, With Love
#6 When He was Wicked
#7 It’s in His Kiss
#8 On the Way to the Wedding
Happily Ever After (2nd Epilogues and Violet’s Story)

Next up on the TBR pile:

Lord of Darkness by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Lord of Darkness (Maiden Lane #5)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2013

Genre: Romance

Pages: 385

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance

WHEN STRANGERS IN THE NIGHT

He lives in the shadows. As the mysterious masked avenger known as the Ghost of St. Giles, Godric St. John's only goal is to protect the innocent of London. Until the night he confronts a fearless young lady pointing a pistol at his head-and realizes she is his wife . . .

BECOME LOVERS . . .

Lady Margaret Reading has vowed to kill the Ghost of St. Giles-the man who murdered her one true love. Returning to London, and to the man she hasn't seen since their wedding day, Margaret does not recognize the man behind the mask. Fierce, commanding, and dangerous, the notorious Ghost of St. Giles is everything she feared he would be-and so much more . . .

DESIRE IS THE ULTIMATE DANGER

When passion flares, these two intimate strangers can't keep from revealing more of themselves than they had ever planned. But when Margaret learns the truth-that the Ghost is her husband-the game is up and the players must surrender . . . to the temptation that could destroy them both.

Another very satisfying historical romance. I am really enjoying this series so much! Hoyt has crafted great characters, steamy scenes, and great mysteries in every book. I really did enjoy Margaret and Godric (more than Hero and Griffin!). I enjoyed encountering some of our previous characters again and seeing where they are now. (Seriously Lord Caire has an adorable daughter named Annalise? I couldn’t handle the cuteness!) I was hoping that Godric turned out to be a more interesting character than we had previously encountered and I was correct. I can’t wait tor read the next book.

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile:

Thief of Shadows by Elizabeth Hoyt

Title: Thief of Shadows (Maiden Lane #4)

Author: Elizabeth Hoyt

Publisher: Grand Central 2012

Genre: Romance

Pages: 385

Rating: 5/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Perpetual - NPR Romance; GR Random

A MASKED MAN . . .

Winter Makepeace lives a double life. By day he's the stoic headmaster of a home for foundling children. But the night brings out a darker side of Winter. As the moon rises, so does the Ghost of St. Giles-protector, judge, fugitive. When the Ghost, beaten and wounded, is rescued by a beautiful aristocrat, Winter has no idea that his two worlds are about to collide.

A DANGEROUS WOMAN . . .

Lady Isabel Beckinhall enjoys nothing more than a challenge. Yet when she's asked to tutor the Home's dour manager in the ways of society-flirtation, double-entendres, and scandalous liaisons-Isabel can't help wondering why his eyes seem so familiar-and his lips so tempting.

A PASSION NEITHER COULD DENY

During the day Isabel and Winter engage in a battle of wills. At night their passions are revealed . . . But when little girls start disappearing from St. Giles, Winter must avenge them. For that he might have to sacrifice everything-the Home, Isabel . . . and his life.

Yes! We are back to another great and steamy historical romance. I absolutely adored Isabel and Winter as main romantic characters. They have such a great feisty relationship and I was here for every single second of it! The steamy scenes were definitely worth the wait. I was all in for their dance around each other until they consummated their relationship. Beyond them, I loved the background storyline dealing with the missing girls. I love how this series has another story along with the main romance. My only issues was Lady Margaret. She was just a bit too naive and flighty for me in this book. I hope her and Godric’s story is better than the bit we saw in this book.

Maiden Lane

#1 Wicked Intentions
#2 Notorious Pleasures
#3 Scandalous Desires
#4 Thief of Shadows
#5 Lord of Darkness
#6 Duke of Midnight
#7 Darling Beast
#8 Dearest Rogue
#9 Sweetest Scoundrel
#10 Duke of Sin
#10.5 Once Upon a Moonlit Night
#10.7 Once Upon a Christmas Eve
#11 Duke of Pleasure
#12 Duke of Desire
#12.5 Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Next up on the TBR pile: