Christmas in the Little Irish Village - Michelle Vernal (Bookouture - Oct 2022)

Series: Emerald Bay (Book 1)
 
Welcome to the little Irish village where Christmas celebrations are in full swing! Twinkling lights, cosy fires and big mugs of hot chocolate are in abundance as Shannon Kelly returns home to the Shamrock Inn. Will this be the year she finds the man of her dreams or is she destined to be forever unlucky in love?
 
Thirty-four-year-old Shannon is heartbroken following an unexpected break up. Seasonal joy is the last thing on her mind, as she wonders if she’ll ever find the kind of long-lasting love she’s always dreamed of. Even the comforting distractions of her big Irish family can’t cheer her up. Then things get even worse when Shannon slips over on the ice and finds herself red-faced in the arms of a gorgeous American man…
 
Shannon can’t help wondering who the handsome stranger is despite the embarrassing encounter. She soon finds out when James Cabot takes a room at the Shamrock Inn. Their second meeting is equally disastrous when she gives James the tour – without realising her skirt is tucked into her knickers! Shannon isn’t sure how she’s going to survive living under the same roof when she has such a talent for making a complete eejit of herself, and resolves to avoid their new guest at all costs.
 
But when Shannon discovers James is in Ireland because he’s claiming to be the long-lost grandson of her elderly neighbour, Maeve Doolin, she is immediately suspicious. Shannon has known kind Maeve since she was a little girl and feels protective of her, so she’s determined to find out the truth. Even if it means spending more time with James…
 
The two of them end up getting closer than she’d bargained for when they take a tour of Emerald Bay and end up snowed in together. But just as James begins to make Shannon’s heart melt with his cheeky grin and awful carol singing, a shocking secret threatens to shatter the growing romance between them.
 
Can Shannon trust James? And will she get the happily-ever-after she’s been hoping for this Christmas?
 
Good Christmas story that takes place in a small village in Ireland. It is full of family, quirky villagers, vivid descriptions, and a bit of a mystery. After a heartbreaking break-up with her French boyfriend, Shannon heads home to Emerald Bay and her family. One thing she is sure of - she's off men for the foreseeable future. This is reinforced by two embarrassing encounters with a handsome American man.
 
Shannon's relationship with James feels like a slow burn until you realize that the entire book takes place over four days. The chemistry between them is evident to everyone around them though Shannon does her best to deny it. I could feel Shannon's frustration as her family seemed determined to push them together. When Shannon gets roped into playing tour guide for James, she doesn't expect to find herself liking him. James makes his interest known with his charming smiles, sense of humor, and johnny-on-the-spot rescues. I liked how Shannon's family drew him into their circle, much to Shannon's chagrin. She also received quite a bit of teasing and significant looks from her sisters, including Hannah's comparison to courting baboons! I ached a little for James because Shannon is still letting her breakup affect her outlook. Once she realizes that life is too short to live in the past, she permits herself to embrace the possibilities. I liked that there were no insta-love declarations, just an admission of mutual liking and an interest in seeing where it goes. With Shannon in Ireland and James due to go back to America, the book ended with a bit of a cliffhanger. I hope to see more of them in the next book.
 
There is a bit of a mystery surrounding James's presence in the town in the beginning. When Shannon finds he's been visiting the older woman, Maeve, she is suspicious of his motives. As a visiting nurse who has known Maeve all her life, Shannon is protective of her favorite patient. Maeve's secretiveness is worrying, but she's still mentally sharp, so Shannon bides her time. While I suspected the truth, the background of Maeve's story was heartbreaking. I loved seeing the happiness that the truth brought to her. There was some drama caused by her son, who was a selfish prig, but it all worked out in an emotional scene that tugged at the heartstrings.
 
I loved Shannon's family. It is big and boisterous, and they clearly love each other. That's not to say there aren't squabbles and moments of drama. Hannah is a blunt-spoken social activist who doesn't hesitate to get in their faces about the causes she feels are essential. She is also a bit of a pot-stirrer and delights in making things awkward for Shannon when it comes to James. Imogen is the sophisticated sister who is also something of a drama queen. Her reaction to Shannon's cat Napoleon and his presence in their room was hilarious. The twins, Ava and Grace, don't have as much page time, but their differing personalities are evident. Shannon's grandmother, or nan as she is called, is a force of nature. I loved how she and Shannon's mom, Nora, could bring the family under control with just a few words. Shannon's dad was the quintessential pub owner with his outgoing nature and sense of humor. But my favorite family member was Shannon's cat, Napoleon. He has a regal personality mixed with adorable antics. I laughed out loud at how he seemed to stalk Shannon's dad.

The Story of Love - Beth Wiseman (Zondervan - Oct 2022)

Series: Amish Bookstore (Book 2)
 
They come from different backgrounds . . . But are they destined to write a new chapter together?
 
With little left to tie her to her home state of Texas and yearning for a slower life, Yvonne Wilson jumps at the chance to shake things up with a move to Montgomery, Indiana. A dream job awaits her—managing an Amish bookstore for her good friends Jake and Eva. Besides the slow-paced setting and the comfort of beloved books, Yvonne hopes the change will help distract her from the emptiness she feels after the death of her fiancé.
 
No longer a part of the Amish community but still a resident of Montgomery, Abraham Byler finds himself in over his head with his job as a police officer combined with a new but fast-moving relationship with the wealthy and aggressive New York native Brianna Stone. When Abraham realizes that his old crush Yvonne is back in town, he’s not just in over his head—he suddenly finds himself head over heels for Yvonne—and in hot water with Brianna.
 
When the violence of police work comes up against his pacifist upbringing, Abraham is forced to question his original decision to leave the Amish faith for his career. Meanwhile, Yvonne is asking her own questions about why she feels such a deep peace in Montgomery—and how much that feeling has to do with Abraham and how much has to do with the workings of her own heart.
 
Excellent book with complicated characters and situations. I have yet to read the first book in this series, but enough of the backstory was provided that I did not feel lost. It does make me want to go back and read the first one. Three main characters - Yvonne, Abraham, and Brianna - are involved in a love triangle. In the previous book, Yvonne met Abraham when she visited the town and attended her friends, Jake and Eva's wedding. Yvonne and Abraham connected there, with Abraham developing feelings for her. He wrote to her after she returned to Texas, but still grieving the death of her fiancé, Yvonne never answered his letters.
 
Months later, Yvonne moves to Montgomery for a new start. Jake and Eva hired her to manage the bookstore while Eva is on bedrest and Jake works the family farm. She looks forward to a quieter and simpler life and the possibility of seeing Abraham again.
 
Abraham is a former Amish man who left the community to become a police officer. He likes his work but occasionally wonders if he made the right choice. In other decisions, after not hearing from Yvonne for three months, Abraham starts dating newcomer Brianna. Brianna is a modern city woman, making me wonder why she latched onto a former Amish and still very conservative Abraham. Brianna is very intense, possessive, and controlling. When she hears about Yvonne's arrival in town, she quickly stakes her claim on Abraham.
 
I loved seeing the relationship develop between Abraham and Yvonne. She is conscious of his relationship with Brianna and unwilling to break them up, puts him firmly in the "friend zone." Abraham is happy to renew his friendship with Yvonne but quickly realizes that he is much more attracted to Yvonne than Brianna. He finds frequent reasons to help Yvonne, from helping her with her house to providing her with a Christmas tree. It was easy to see that Abraham and Yvonne have much in common and are very suited to each other.
 
Brianna is intense and tries to push Abraham faster in their relationship than he is willing to go. The Amish values he was raised with are still integral to who Abraham is, and he has made his position very clear to Brianna. When he is injured in the line of duty, Brianna moves in to help him, putting her own spin on the situation. Her methods of getting her way are dishonest and manipulative. It doesn't take long for Abraham to realize that it is time for them to part ways, but his soft heart worries about hurting her. There were some scary moments with Brianna, but I ended up feeling sorry for her.
 
With his relationship with Brianna sorted out, Abraham was free to spend time with Yvonne. I loved watching their connection grow and strengthen as they shared their beliefs and dreams. The incident that ended with Abraham's injury has caused him to question his future as a police officer and his decision to leave his Amish faith. But returning to the Amish would mean leaving Yvonne behind. Both need to look deep within their hearts to find the right answers. I loved their honest communication about the pros and cons. The ending was terrific, with a sweet twist.
 
There were a couple of mysteries running through the book. One was creepy and scary. Not long after Yvonne moved into her house, she began having problems with an apparent stalker. Someone tried to break into her home, and there were nights when Yvonne's dog would bark an alert that someone was lurking. The resolution of this issue was intense and heartbreaking. The second mystery was simply intriguing. Jake told Yvonne of an old story involving the bookstore and a rumored cache of valuable coins. With the number of renovations the building has gone through over the years, with no one finding them, Jake and Yvonne suspect that it's all talk and no substance. Then an unexpected discovery lends credence to the rumors. I hope that there will be more about this in the next book.
 
I can't end this review without talking about the dog. One night when she came home, Yvonne found a dog curled up on her porch. She is terrified of dogs after an incident when she was a child. The dog is a pitiful specimen - very thin and dirty but not aggressive. Over the next few days, Yvonne's kind heart overcomes her fears, and the dog wriggles his way into her life. I loved watching the tentative bond grow between them. Yvonne won my heart when she brought the dog inside on a snowy night. Her decision to keep him was not unexpected, and I loved the comfort and companionship he gave her. He was also protective, which gave Abraham a few worrisome moments but was a good thing in the end.

Wyoming Winter Rescue - Juno Rushdan (HI #2108 - Nov 2022)

Series: Cowboy State Lawmen (Book 1)
 
What was more treacherous—
Confronting a killer or her ex-boyfriend?
 
Having to do the unthinkable to stop a murderous patient has consumed psychotherapist Lynn Delgado with fear and guilt. And because of his dangerous job, she’s ended her relationship with lawman Nash Garner. But when a serial killer targets Lynn, she must overcome her resistance to protection. As she flees the killer in a raging blizzard, Nash follows, risking everything to save the woman he's falling for.
 
This was an intense, action-packed story from start to finish. Lynn is a psychotherapist in a relationship with Nash, an FBI agent. In the ten months they've been together, Lynn has been waiting for Nash to lose his closed-off attitude and talk to her. His inability to open up to her convinces her they have no future together, and she breaks off their relationship.
 
Nash knows what she wants, but between his childhood and his time in the military and FBI, he has learned to shut down and compartmentalize his feelings. He believes he can learn, but it is a difficult step for him to take. So he heeds her wishes to stay away from her but can't stop watching over her.
 
The book opens as Lynn is confronted by a patient who blames her for all his problems. He is determined to kill her. After hearing the gunshots, Nash arrives just in time to see Lynn shoot and kill the man. I ached for Lynn, who blamed herself for failing her patient and then killing him. I also hurt for Nash, who wanted to help Lynn deal with the aftermath but was pushed away.
 
This goes on for several weeks until, once again, Lynn is in danger. Not only is she receiving threatening letters, but she is also kidnapped at gunpoint as she leaves work. I felt her fear as she looked into the eyes of a cold-blooded killer and knew she would die. I loved watching her draw on her inner strength and the things she's learned from Nash and others to find a way out of the situation. Though she was safe, it looks like she is now the target of a notorious serial killer.
 
I was glued to the pages as I watched Nash and other law enforcement officers do their best to identify and find the killer. I could feel their frustration as they ran into dead-end after dead-end. Meanwhile, Lynn and her best friend leave town for a weekend getaway, believing they'll be safe. She never expected to be followed and have to escape into a blizzard. I was awed by her strength and determination as she struggled to get away. Only Nash's timely arrival brought the bad guy down.
 
But just when you think everything is sorted out, they discover that not everything is as it seems. The complexity of the plot against Lynn and the motivation behind it blew me away. Some intense scenes involved negotiations and surprise revelations before the true culprit was uncovered. The ending was a nail-biter with yet another life-threatening twist.
 
Their differing communication styles complicated the relationship between Nash and Lynn. Nash has difficulty talking about his feelings, but showing her has never been a problem. As the danger around Lynn grows, Nash realizes the depth of his devastation if he loses her and vows to make an effort to be what she needs. While I understood Lynn's need for Nash to talk to her, I got a little frustrated with her refusal to see his unspoken language and how she kept pushing him away. I loved when the dam broke, and Nash started talking. His confession of his reasons for not opening up before broke my heart. Lynn made me happy with her reaction and understanding. I hope to see more of them in the following books in the series.

Possessed by Passion - Brenda Jackson (HKR #465 - Mar 2016)

Series: Forged of Steele (Book 11)
 
They're discovering the healing powers of passion
 
Burned-by-love architect Hunter McKay came home to Phoenix to open her own firm, not rekindle her fleeting high school romance with playboy Tyson Steele. But when she runs into the sexy surgeon at a nightclub -- and he unleashes that legendary Steele charm -- Hunter fears she's headed straight for heartbreak once again.
 
Tyson hasn't forgotten the one who got away. A weeklong fling should be just enough to get the sultry beauty out of his system for good, even if he has to let Hunter set the ground rules. But the rules are suddenly changing for the no-strings bachelor. Can Tyson convince this sensual woman that he's the real deal -- that they deserve a second chance together?
 
Good book. Hunter returned to Phoenix after she divorced her cheating husband. She's opened her own architectural firm and is focused on getting it up and running. While at a nightclub with her two best friends, she runs into playboy Tyson Steele who makes it clear that he wants her.
 
Hunter and Tyson have a history. He was as big a player in high school as he is now and had a reputation with the school's girls. When he zeroed in on Hunter, she held out for a relationship or nothing - and Tyson got nothing. He still remembers Hunter as the one who got away and is determined to remedy the situation.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Tyson and Hunter. I will say that Tyson irritated me at the beginning. He is so arrogant and cocky about his appeal to women that he can't imagine anyone turning him down. He is honest about his intention to seduce her and get her out of his system before moving on to the next conquest. Hunter is not impressed. She's attracted to him but has no intention of getting involved with another man who avoids commitment. Yet, after a while, she considers giving in and using Tyson the way he plans to use her - just a fling.
 
I had to laugh to see Tyson the playboy hoist on his own petard. Instead of a "one and done" night to get Hunter out of his system, he can't stop thinking about her and wanting her. This freaks him out because it has never happened to him before. He knows he should walk away but proposes a weeklong fling instead. I cheered at Hunter's response. She has enjoyed her time with Tyson. His care and attention have gone a long way toward restoring her sense of self as a woman. Her ex blamed his cheating on her, claiming she wasn't enough for him, but her time with Tyson brings out her passionate side. She tells Tyson she'll go along with his plan but with certain conditions - they must do things outside the bedroom.
 
Tyson has never "dated" the women he slept with but found himself more than willing to indulge Hunter's demands. Watching him get into movie nights, dinner and dancing dates, and other ordinary pursuits was fun. He also loses all interest in chasing other women. He gets a lot of teasing from his brothers, even the married ones, and some knowing looks from his brother Eli. I loved Tyson's "aha" moment when he realized he was in love with Hunter.
 
Hunter knew she was risking heartbreak when she explained her conditions to Tyson, but she had to try. I loved seeing her confidence in herself grow, though there was still a part that kept her from believing Tyson could change. There was a bumpy spot where Hunter's jealousy got the better of her and created a bit of a misunderstanding between them. I ached for her as she thought Tyson was ready to break things off.
 
The ending was sweet with a side helping of spice. I loved how Tyson decided to show Hunter how he felt. It may have been a tad too subtle at first, but the more he talked, the more Hunter began to hope. Tyson's reputation made her wariness understandable, but that made the truth so much sweeter. The epilogue was great as the fourth Bad News Steele bit the dust, leaving only two more for their mother to focus on.

Ironheart - Rachel Lee (SIM #494 - May 1993)

Series: Conard County (Book 4)
 
DREAM WARRIOR...
 
Sara Jane Yates was a black satin sheets woman hidden in the guise of a pistol-packin' peace officer. Gideon Ironheart could tell that just from the sound of her voice. No other woman had ever made him want to quit his wandering ways before. But then, no other woman had ever rescued him at gunpoint from a barroom brawl, either.
 
Tall, powerful--and ready to take on the whole town Gideon Ironheart was "an Indian with an attitude," all right. Deputy Sheriff Sara Yates was sure of it. But there was something else about him--something hidden, sensual. Something that made her want to tell him her darkest fears. And her deepest desires ...
 
I've been a Conard County fan for a long time but missed out on the earliest books in the series, and I am now trying to remedy that situation. One of the things I love about these early books is getting to know the stories of the men and women who have become integral to life in Conard County. One of these couples is the team of Gideon and Sara Ironheart.
 
Written almost thirty years ago, there are terms and themes in the book that wouldn't be used today. The words Indian, injun, and redskin are commonly utilized but, taken in context, did not distract from the story. Discussion of prejudice is not shied away from nor the ramifications of interracial marriage. There is also some referencing of attitudes about Native religions and their suppression. Overall, I feel the story has held up well over the years.
 
The book opens as Gideon arrives in Conard County. He is a former steel walker, one of the men who build skyscrapers. After the tragic death of his partner, Gideon has felt lost. He came to Conard County on a quest to find a man named Micah Parrish, though we don't find out why until later in the book. Gideon's first stop is a local bar where he hopes to get dinner before finding a place to stay. Unfortunately, as soon as he walks in, he is faced with those who look down on him and told to get out. Gideon, who is a big man, simply turns his back on the haters. The loudest one immediately attacks Gideon, and the brawl is on. As the bartender calls the cops, the fight moves outside, and Gideon takes on all comers. He's on his third one when Deputy Sara Yates arrives to break it up. Sara has a lot of attitude for a small woman, and pretty soon, it's just her and Gideon left. I liked her no-nonsense attitude and willingness to help Gideon.
 
Sara became a deputy to help pay the bills to keep the family ranch going. She built up her tough outer shell after being left at the altar by her fiancé, who blamed her publicly for his unwillingness to marry her. It devastated her self-esteem; she hadn't been able to trust a man since then. She shares the ranch with her grandfather Zeke and her younger brother Joey. Joey has been in constant trouble for a couple of years, and Sara is at her wit's end dealing with him.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Sara and Gideon. The attraction is immediate, but they initially try to fight it. Sara has sworn off men and knows Gideon doesn't plan to stay long. Gideon has avoided getting involved with white women since a manipulative woman burned him as a young man. But when Gideon takes a job on Sara's ranch, working with her grandfather and living in the bunkhouse, that attraction grows stronger. Gideon is a man with excellent observation skills, and he quickly understands that Sara doesn't see her own appeal. I loved watching him bring Sara out of her shell. Gideon is surprised by his growing feelings for Sara and unsure of what to do about them.
 
Away from her work as a deputy, Sara loses some of the tough girl façade. Her love for her family is evident, and her worry over Joey is never far from her mind. She is also more sensitive and empathetic than she realizes. I loved seeing her get to know Gideon and help him through his feelings over his friend's death. I also liked how she opened up about her jilting and its effect on her. Seeing how Gideon's attention helped change how she saw herself was sweet. Their building attraction puts a strain on their self-control, especially Gideon's. When they finally gave in, it changed them both.
 
Two mysteries are running through the book. The first is Gideon's interest in Micah. We see Gideon observing him from a distance at first, then closer as Micah's deputy duties bring him in contact with Gideon. Gideon is torn over whether to reveal his secret or keep it to himself. It was interesting that Zeke finally pushed Gideon to take action. In an unexpected twist, Micah was already aware of the issue, and I liked his honest explanation. There was some angst between Gideon and Sara because of it, but it was overcome relatively quickly.
 
The second mystery involved Joey and what was causing his bad behavior. There were unexplained attacks on Zeke and Gideon and Gideon's suspicion that it had something to do with Joey. I liked the interactions between Joey and Gideon, who saw much of himself in Joey. There are some tense moments at the end when Joey goes missing, and I was on the edge of my seat until Gideon and Sara found him.
 
I loved the ending and seeing Gideon and Sara overcome their pasts to find a life together.

 
 
 

The Christmas Cottage - Christine Rimmer (HSE #2941 - Nov 2022)

Series: Wild Rose Sisters (Book 3)
 
“Do it now…”                                                                          
And change everything!
 
By the book success story Alexandra Herrera’s got it all mapped out: partner at a law firm, high-powered career. But when her birth father leaves her an unexpected inheritance—prompted by a random fortune cookie—she impulsively walks away from her entire life! And now that she’s snowed in with West Wright, she learns that lightning really can strike twice. So much, in fact, that the sparks between them could melt any ice storm…if only they’d let them!
 
I sat down to read this book and barely moved until I turned the last page. Alex and her workaholic life caught my attention in the first two books, and I wondered how anyone would break through that mindset. She has her life planned, and nothing will derail her. Then the birth father, that was barely in her life, died and left his entire estate to her. Suddenly all that effort has been negated, and she has more money than she knows what to do with. In the end, it wasn’t a who, but a what - a simple fortune cookie with the message “Do it now.” So she walked into her boss’s office, said, “I quit,” and left for the family farm that day.
 
It was fun to see everyone’s shock that Alex would do such an uncharacteristic thing. Even Alex herself is still stunned. She plans to sit around in the farm’s guest cottage and read, binge-watch television, and chill out while she decides what to do next. Then she finds out that her brother-in-law’s twin brother needs a place to stay while he’s visiting for the holidays, and she has the only empty bedroom on the farm. But Alex and Weston have a history that the rest of the family is unaware of - a passionate one-night-stand after their siblings’ wedding a few months earlier. They promised each other the next morning it would never happen again.
 
Right there, we know what’s going to happen. Sparks that strong are not going to disappear just because they say so. Sure, neither one is interested in a relationship. West is happily playing the field, having been burned once already. He’s not against falling in love and getting married; he’s just not interested right now. Alex feels her life is too unsettled even to consider getting involved with West.
 
I loved watching the relationship between Alex and West develop. They are determined to stick to their promise, but their connection and chemistry are too strong. They discover they have a lot in common and are surprised to find that *gasp* they actually like each other. What would it hurt to indulge in a little holiday fling? They’re both adults and promise to keep it casual.
 
I enjoyed seeing the time they spent together. There is lots of family time, illustrating that both have excellent relationships with their families. Sometimes it may feel like they are a little too close, such as when West gets unsolicited advice from his brother Easton or Alex’s sisters warn her of West’s playboy ways. But the love is unquestioning, and support is only a phone call away if needed.
 
I liked the time Alex and West spent with each other. Outside of the bedroom, they spend time talking about many things. I loved how West supported Alex in her decision to leave her job. He reminds her that she’s an intelligent, capable woman who will figure out her path when the time is right. I liked his sensitivity to her moods and his ability to help her through them. West is stunned when he realizes that he has fallen in love with Alex despite their “fling” status. But when he confesses those feelings to Alex, she freaks out. I ached for them both as Alex’s fears kept her from admitting her feelings. It takes some well-meaning interference from various family members to bring these two back together. The ending was terrific, and I loved seeing Alex open herself up to the feelings she had buried for years. The epilogue was an excellent wrap-up for the book and the series.
 
I can’t end the review without mentioning Alex’s decision to get a puppy. I had to laugh at how she had the “perfect” dog in mind when she and West headed to the shelter. She won my heart when she wandered past all the cages, spending time looking at each animal, and stopped at the one holding a small, scruffy, older dog. The immediate bonding between the two was fantastic, and with the name “Cookie,” they were clearly fated to belong to each other. I loved that she ended up with an older dog because those are so often passed over. 

Snowflakes and Secrets in the Scottish Highlands - Donna Ashcroft (Bookouture - Oct 2022)

Series: Village of Christmas (Book 2)
 
Twenty-five-year-old Merry is escaping to the Scottish Highlands for Christmas. Heartbroken by the death of her father, the man who raised her single-handedly, she needs some time to heal. Hiding away at Chestnut Cottage with only her Aunt Ava's menagerie of pets for company seems like the perfect way to spend a peaceful December. But when she arrives, Merry discovers some curious instructions from her aunt asking her to organise Secret Santa gifts for the residents of Christmas village.
 
Merry's determined to try and carry out her aunt's festive task. But on her first night in the little cottage, everything goes wrong including upsetting the handsome local vet Theo Ellis-Lee when he arrives to assist with a crazed turkey and the mischievous rabbit who's torn apart her aunt's gift list. Merry is completely out of her comfort zone, and it doesn't help that Theo is both infuriatingly cheerful and insanely attractive.
 
Merry's plans for a quiet break are quickly thwarted as Theo starts coming by every day to check on the unruly animals, and she can't deny he sets her pulse racing. And, one by one, the friendly locals draw her out of her shell with cosy cups of tea, warm words, and laughter-filled evenings in the pub. She finds herself embracing the challenge of finding the perfect gift for each of the kind-hearted people on her list. When Theo offers to help, sparks fly between them. But when the Secret Santa project forces Merry to face her heartache, she's not sure she's ready for a fresh start.
 
At a crossroads in her life, will Merry decide to go home and hide from her problems or will she open her heart and stay in Christmas village?
 
Terrific book. I enjoyed revisiting Christmas village (Christmas in the Scottish Highlands) and catching up with the villagers I met last year. This year there are a couple of new residents: Merry, who has come to house-and-animal sit for her Aunt Ava, and Theo, the new partner at the local vet's office.
 
Merry was involved in a car accident two years earlier, leaving her in a three-month coma. When she woke up, her three previously overprotective brothers took their overprotectiveness to a new level. Needing a little breathing room to reclaim her independence, Merry takes her aunt up on the offer of her cottage in exchange for pet-sitting. Challenges and delays in getting there meant Merry missed seeing her aunt by a few hours. Still, Ava left detailed instructions, not only for the animal care but also for a Secret Santa project that's been in the family for generations. Unfortunately for Merry, her aunt's pet rabbit Chewy lived up to his name, and shredded/ate most of the notes - including which villager gets which gift. Worried about the rabbit after its misadventures, Merry calls the local vet.
 
Theo has only been in the village for two months and is still getting to know people. He came to Christmas village after a bad breakup looking for a new start. Theo is a big-hearted man who lives for caring for others, whether they are animals or people. His former girlfriend took advantage of him, leaving him determined to avoid getting involved with another needy woman. Theo also has a younger brother, Jeff, who he raised after their parents' deaths. Jeff moved to Australia, far away from Theo's oversight.
 
The first meeting between Merry and Theo doesn't go well. Theo jumps to the conclusion that Merry is another one of those needy women that he needs to avoid. Merry just wants to be sure the rabbit is okay and get some information on how to care for the animals. Theo tells himself to give her the information she needs and leave her alone, but he can't seem to stay away. Before long, he's showing up at least once daily to check on Merry and the animals. I liked watching Merry do her utmost to maintain her independence, only accepting Theo's help when absolutely necessary.
 
Merry is also a writer working on a romance novel. Her first attempt didn't go well, and she's having trouble getting her confidence back. She had planned to hole up in the cottage and write, but her need to figure out the Secret Santa recipients forces her into the village. I loved seeing her drawn into village life. Belle, a primary school teacher, invites Merry to speak to her third graders about writing as they work on their Christmas stories. I loved her interactions with the children and seeing how they helped Merry find her writing mojo. I especially enjoyed their suggestions on how to make her story better. Those same children opened Merry up to getting to know their parents.
 
Theo quickly discovers that Merry has something to do with the Secret Santa mystery. He knows she will not accept any overt offers to help, so he finds subtle ways to expose her to various villagers, enabling her to make the connections herself. The more time he spends with her, the more he realizes she is the opposite of needy. I enjoyed seeing how he supported her in her goal of reclaiming herself. Merry, who initially thought that Theo was just as overprotective as her brothers, soon sees a different side to him. I liked seeing her soften her independence just a little bit and accept the occasional assistance from him.
 
Merry's brothers were over-the-top in their attitudes. Calling her multiple times a day, telling her she's not safe on her own and threatening to come to Christmas village to stay with her make her more determined to stand on her own. When they get to Theo, asking him to spy on her for them or they will come up, Theo is caught between a rock and a hard place. If he doesn't agree, she will lose out on all of the progress she has made. But if he does agree, he becomes part of the problem. I felt for him and the dilemma he faced, knowing that no matter what he did, it would come back and bite him.
 
I loved watching Merry's growth over the month she was there. Her confidence grew steadily from dealing with the animals to figuring out the Secret Santa thing. I loved following her writing adventures as her characters grew along with her. I ached for her feelings of betrayal when she found out about Theo and her brothers. Theo had her back even there, and I loved his conversation with her brother Noah. It takes some self-reflection, but Theo and Merry discover that there's nothing wrong with accepting help when you need it and that helping each other makes them stronger.
 
I loved the final scene with the Secret Santa gifts. Their work was clearly successful, and there were even a couple of surprise gifts!
 
I hope there will be another Christmas village book next year.

The Duke's Defiant Cinderella - Parker J. Cole (HH #1682 - Oct 2022)

An arranged betrothal…
By royal approval!
 
As the servant girl who discovered she was the long-lost daughter of a comte, Lilas Moreau is no stranger to scandal. Now, more famous for her art, she won't have her independence threatened by the return of her betrothed, Bastien, Duc de Languedoc. As a new attraction sizzles between them, Lilas is relieved he wants to end their secret marriage contract. But a summons from the queen means they're forced to continue their charade!
 
I enjoyed this unusual historical romance. It isn't often I find one set in pre-Revolution France, and this is the first I've read that involved people of color. When the story opens, Lilas is a servant in the home of the Duc de Languedoc. She came to them from the orphanage she was left at as a baby. As a mixed-race child, she suffered a lot of bullying at the orphanage and later from the other servants on the estate. Her only friend was Bastien, the duc's son, who was also mixed race. Bastien stands up for her when he can and comforts her when he cannot.
 
In the opening chapter, we discover that eighteen-year-old Lilas is the long-lost daughter of a comte, and she is to take her rightful place in her father's home. At the same time, Bastien is informed by his father that Lilas is his betrothed, an arrangement set up by their fathers before she was born. Bastien has a difficult relationship with his controlling father, and rather than accepting Lilas as his wife, he leaves on a Grand Tour. Lilas feels betrayed as her only friend deserts her in her hour of need.
 
Four years later, Bastien returns to France. His father is dead, and he is the new duc. His first order of business is to convince Lilas to break their betrothal. He wants a wife with an impeccable background, not one who used to be a servant. He feels it is necessary to restore the family's honor after his father was banished for marrying a Maroon for love. He also wants someone he would have no chance of falling in love with, as he remembers his father being a broken man after his wife's death.
 
Lilas, whose arrival in Paris four years ago revived the scandal of her parents' marriage, is now well-versed in society's behavior. However, she is now more famous for her art, even gaining the queen's patronage. She's dismayed by Bastien's return and wants nothing to do with their betrothal. Determined to retain her independence, marriage is the last thing she wants.
 
Unfortunately, their betrothal becomes public knowledge, bringing them to the queen's attention. They are forced to play the part until they can find a way to safely part ways. Neither counted on their sizzling attraction, and each fought hard against it. Several times I wanted to reach into the pages and shake Bastien. I thought his treatment of the woman who was once his best friend was unnecessarily cruel. To repeatedly tell her that she wasn't good enough to be his wife was a terrible thing, especially when he would turn around and be sensitive and supportive.
 
Meanwhile, Lilas is caught in a battle with herself. She is still hurt and angry over how he left her, but she can't deny the feelings he stirs in her. Sometimes she thinks he returns her feelings, but then he'll turn cold again. It doesn't help that her stepmother frequently plays on her fears by suggesting that Bastien has ulterior motives.
 
When circumstances make it advisable for them to marry, Bastien suggests a marriage of convenience. One that will remain unconsummated, allowing them to seek an annulment after a while. But being together all the time strains the control Bastien has worked so hard to cultivate. When that control finally snaps, Bastien must decide whether to admit his feelings or continue to fight them.
 
Since their betrothal became public, Lilas has received several warnings that she is in danger. Bastien's unexpected arrival foiled an attack outside the dressmaker's. Someone slipped a sleeping draught into Lilas's drink on their wedding day, prompting Bastien to take them out of Paris to his family estate. There a collapsed balcony railing shows that danger has followed them. Though the culprit was not a surprise, the motivation was not what I expected. The final confrontation was intense and heartbreaking. It had the benefit of breaking through Bastien's fears and showing him his feelings for Lilas. I loved Bastien's emotional confession. The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up, giving a glimpse of their lives a year and a half later. 

 

The Highlander's Holiday Wife - Vanessa Kelly (Zebra - Oct 2022)

Series: Clan Kendrick (Book 5)
 
It’s Christmastime in Edinburgh, but Lady Samantha Penwith’s secret mission takes no holiday: the Highlands-born lass vows to find the assailants who murdered her beloved husband, founder of a charitable school for orphaned boys. On her latest undercover excursion, she closes in on a pair of armed attackers and interrupts another assault, then disappears into the darkness, leaving the lone victim mystified—and lucky to be alive . . .
 
Braden Kendrick may be the sensible brother, yet the dedicated doctor routinely ignores the dangers of his late-night calls to the city’s slums. But when a fleet-footed rescuer saves his life, he’s determined to uncover the stranger’s identity. And once he does, he’ll find himself facing his own past loss for the first time—and more than willing to risk his heart again, just in time to make the Clan Kendrick’s Christmas celebrations more festive than ever . . .
 
I loved this book. The fifth book in the Clan Kendrick series features Braden, the "boring" Kendrick. From the time he was a child, Braden was focused on his goal of becoming a doctor, motivated by a desire to help his younger brother. Though Ryan was healthy by the time Braden reached his goal, Braden had found his calling. Unlike his rambunctious brothers, he had always been a quiet, serious man but has been even more so recently. He devotes long hours to his work with the poor in Edinburgh, where we find him as the book opens.
 
Braden has never had a problem with his safety wandering the streets of Edinburgh's slums late at night until now. Unfortunately, two armed thugs seemed determined to end his "interference," and it seemed likely they would succeed. Luckily he's rescued by a pair of avenging angels - one massive, and one small, quick, and - female? He is thankful, intrigued, and determined to discover who she is.
 
Lady Samantha Penwith is a widow on a mission. Two years ago, her husband was murdered, and no one could be bothered to investigate. With her faithful servant by her side, she prowls Edinburgh slums, looking for the truth. She's recently added another quest - children are disappearing from the orphanage/school her husband founded. The last thing she needs is a nosy doctor poking around.
 
Braden and Samantha are brought together by a mutual friend, Dr. John Blackmore. John suspects Samantha's mission and worries about her safety. He is also a member of the board of the Penwith Foundation and is one of the few members backing her plans for the Foundation. John believes Braden will be an additional voice for good on the board, and the scenes involving his attempts to convince Braden are pretty amusing. Meanwhile, Samantha wants nothing to do with Braden, afraid he will figure out she is his rescuer. In fact, it takes little time for Braden to do so.
 
Braden and Samantha are determined, independent, and intelligent. He quickly realizes that nothing will stop Samantha from her mission. Instead of trying to stop her, he listens to her concerns, suspicions, and ideas and then offers to help her. He is also the voice of reason that balances her impulsiveness. There is a fair amount of push-and-pull between them as they delve deeper into their searches.
 
I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Both have the pain of love lost in their pasts and a reluctance to risk their hearts again. However, neither can deny the attraction that grows between them. Braden is the first to realize the truth of his feelings for Samantha but is sensitive enough to give her the space and time she needs to adjust to their growing relationship. Samantha's instinctive trust in Braden goes a long way toward opening her heart to him.
 
Samantha has another problem in her life. Her husband's grandfather is a controlling old man who has never approved of Samantha. She and her husband cared for his deaf younger sister, Felicity, while Lord Beath would instead have confined the girl to his estate. With Roger's death, Lord Beath constantly threatens to take Felicity away from Samantha if she does anything to bring scandal to the family name. I heartily disliked his attitude towards and about Felicity, especially when he appeared and started making threats again. It didn't help that he despises the Kendrick family. I loved seeing the family rally in Samantha's support and laughed out loud as they spiked the man's guns by using their more significant connections.
 
Lord Beath gets his licks in, though, when he stumbles on Samantha and Braden sharing a passionate kiss. Braden had already suggested one surefire way to keep Felicity with Samantha - marry him. Lord Beath's appearance expedited the necessity. I loved watching Braden and Samantha settle into married life. By this time, Braden is head-over-heels in love with Samantha, exercising great patience and restraint while he waits for her to love him back. When that point is reached, though their intimacy is closed door, there is no doubt about their feelings.
 
The mystery of the murder and the missing children is never far from Braden and Samantha's minds. I enjoyed following their progress as they chipped away at the puzzle. When a question about the Foundation's finances raises a red flag, Braden and Samantha recruit his brother Logan to help. The pieces come together quickly, revealing a more elaborate scheme than previously suspected. The intensity ramped up when Felicity was taken, and I was on the edge of my seat as I watched Braden, Samantha, and the Kendricks work together to bring her home. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, and I loved that Samantha was in the thick of it. The epilogue was great and an excellent conclusion for the book.
 
You can't have a Clan Kendrick book without involving other family members. In this case, it is mostly Logan and Donella, as Braden lives in their house. I loved the interactions between Braden and Logan. It was fun to see Logan attempt to get Braden to add a little balance to his life, and Braden agreed with Logan and then did as he wished. There is no doubt of their love and respect, but each has the Kendrick stubbornness. I loved Logan's thirteen-year-old son, who can talk rings around his father and is well on the way to being as intelligent as his uncle Braden. Life at the Kendrick home becomes even more chaotic when their boisterous and mischievous grandfather shows up. Angus is always good for a laugh over his self-delusions and antics; this was no exception. There is also no doubt about his love and loyalty for his family, even as he creates chaos around them. The youngest Kendrick, Kade, has a prominent role in this book, and I can't wait for his story.

Cinderella's Last Stand - Michelle Lindo-Rice (HSE #2934 - Sept 2022)

Series: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Book 2)
 
If she wants a happy ending
 
She'll have to write her own story
 
Working as Hollywood heartthrob Axel Harrington's personal assistant isn't exactly a fairy tale come true for Maddie Henry. Despite crushing on his Prince Charming looks, Maddie has had enough of Axel not recognizing her value. Well, this Cinderella is shattering the glass slipper to pursue her dream career! The "Sexiest Man Alive" has two weeks to find a new assistant. And to realize that Maddie is the key to his happily-ever-after.
 
Good book. After reading the beginning of this book, I wasn't sure how Axel would redeem himself. He is a Hollywood heartthrob who is all about what he wants, no matter if it inconveniences someone else. The person he most inconveniences is his personal assistant, Maddie. Both characters frustrated me at the start.
 
Alex thinks nothing of dragging Maddie into whatever he thinks he needs, from mattress shopping to buying gifts. She was hired to manage his schedule and other career-related activities, yet he always manages to make any request about his career to get around her objections. She is on call twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
 
Maddie lost any romantic ideas about Axel early in her career with him. She's frustrated by his thoughtlessness and lack of respect for her time. She is ready to leave on a long-planned and awaited vacation, during which he's promised not to contact her. When he gets into trouble, the next thing Maddie knows, he is on her doorstep, begging to stay with her, completely blowing off his promise. Maddie did what she always does - caved in and gave him what he wanted.
 
After a few days, Maddie finally has enough. I loved seeing her stand up to Axel and tell him she quit. He has two weeks to find another assistant. In the meantime, his brother Lynx (Rivals at Love Creek) asks Axel to fill in as the drama teacher at his school for a couple of weeks. I enjoyed this segment. Axel and Maddie are great with the kids, and Axel gets a taste of "normal" life. He also begins to see Maddie in a new light after hearing his brothers talk about her. At the same time, Maddie sees a different side of Axel, one that she likes. I liked seeing them grow closer, though both fought against putting a name to their feelings.
 
Maddie has some self-esteem issues because of what she perceives as her model mother's disappointment in her "plain, ordinary" daughter. There is no way she can believe that Axel would be interested in her. But Axel has deep-seated fears about committed relationships, thanks to his birth father. Maddie and Axel move on when the two weeks are up, each pursuing new career opportunities after sharing a fantastic night. I loved seeing Maddie come into her own, doing what she loves with a boss/mentor who appreciates her. I loved the boost to her confidence and what came out of it.
 
Meanwhile, Axel gets caught in the manipulative claws of his ex-girlfriend. I understood why he caved in to her blackmail, but the effect on Maddie was devastating. I liked the support Maddie received from her friends, family, and Axel's family. I rooted for Axel to find a way to free himself. The ending was well done. Axel's emotional conversation with his adoptive father opened his eyes to the truth of his feelings for Maddie. I loved seeing them find their way back together. I look forward to seeing more of them in later books.

Montana Storm - Josie Jade and Janie Crouch (Calamitte Jane Pub - Oct 2022)

Series: Resting Warrior Ranch (Book 5)
 
Kill first, ask questions later.       
 
It's the instinct former-SEAL Jude Williams must fight every time someone touches him. His six months being tortured in an enemy prison camp may be long over, but he's got scars -- all over his body and mind -- keeping that time at the forefront of his psyche.
 
So how could he even consider giving in to the desire he has for the town's coffeehouse owner?
 
Lena Mitchell has big gray eyes and a bigger smile -- she's full of life, right down to her purple and teal streaked hair.
 
There are so many reasons Jude should stay away from her. So many ways he's bad for her. But when danger shows up on Lena's door, keeping his distance is no longer an option.
 
He'll protect her from any threat.
 
But who will protect her from him?
 
Whew! Another RWR book sucked me in from the first page and didn't let go until I turned the last page. At least this time, I started the book early enough in the day that I finished it before midnight! Jude and Lena have been dancing around each other since the guys started the ranch. Everyone from the ranch to the town can see that they have it bad for each other.
 
Like the other men of the RWR, Jude has PTSD. He spent six months in an enemy prison camp being tortured and hearing his friends being tortured. One was rescued early, and the other was rescued after Jude. He feels terrible guilt over the latter's extended torture and later suicide. Jude has daily nightmares that leave him screaming and fighting ghosts, to the detriment of his bedding and walls. The violence of his dreams keeps him from pursuing Lena because he fears hurting her. That doesn't stop him from wanting what he won't allow himself to have.
 
Lena is the proud owner of the town's coffee shop, Deja Brew. She bakes all the goodies she serves herself and provides custom orders. Lena is cheerful and friendly to everyone, but Jude holds a special place in her heart. She wants him and is pretty sure he wants her too, but she doesn't know what is holding him back. In the first book of the series, Montana Sanctuary, she was kidnapped along with her friend Evelyn and has had nightmares about her experience ever since. Lena is the kind of person who makes other people feel better and hesitates to share her problems. She always thinks others have it worse, so she buries her feelings. Then her car breaks down near the kidnapping spot, and she has a panic attack. The first person she thinks of to call is Jude, and he comes running. But when she takes her courage in hand and kisses him, he shuts down and leaves. Leah is devastated by his rejection.
 
I loved watching the relationship between Leah and Jude finally take off. Jude has been so afraid of hurting Leah that he is miserable. His friends have tried to help, but he's caught up in his fears. I loved how Daniel gave him a metaphorical kick in the pants, giving Jude a different perspective. When he witnesses a special moment between a friend and his lady, Jude finally realizes he can no longer fight his feelings. I loved seeing him take a chance and go to Lena. As he explained his actions and what was behind them, the rawness of emotion was heartbreaking. I loved Lena's reaction and immediate support and understanding.
 
Once Jude decided to take a chance, he was all in. After three years of friendship and flirtation, the ease of their connection was fantastic. I loved how perceptive Jude was when it came to Lena and how he could always tell when something bothered her. Communication was a vital part of their relationship, and I loved how open and honest they were with each other.
 
I ached for Lena when she started having problems at her business. For someone who cares so much about the people around her, having her baked goods suddenly go wrong was devastating for her. The first incident with the cookies could be chalked up to an accident, but the episode with the pies said something else was going on. The answer was not what I expected, and I felt Jude's fear for Lena when he figured it out. The situation with Lena at the bakery was terrifying, and I was on the edge of my seat until she was safe. The final confrontation was fantastic. The epilogue was a great wrap-up for this book, and I loved seeing the changes in Lena and Jude.
 
I love the close friendships among the men of the RWR. Because of their shared experiences, they know when to get involved and when to back off. There is some hilarious teasing back and forth, especially when Jude and Lena finally get together. The women's friendships are also tight. Lena and Evelyn are especially close due to their shared trauma. It's fun to see the ladies get together and share the joys of their relationships but also get support when things don't go so well. I can't wait to read Daniel's and Liam's stories. 

 

Eagle Mountain Cliffhanger - Cindi Myers (HI #2105 - Nov 2022)

Series: Eagle Mountain Search and Rescue (Book 1)
 
A fight for survival in the snow
While on the trail of a killer
 
Responding to the reports of a car accident, newcomer Deputy Jake Gwynn finds a murder scene instead. Search and rescue paramedic Hannah Richards tried to care for the likely suspect before he slipped away -- and now he's gone from injured man to serial killer on the loose. Jake hadn't planned to put down roots in this quiet little town, but his need to protect Hannah may be more than just professional…
 
Terrific start to the new series focusing on Eagle Mountain's Search and Rescue unit members. The book started with a rush and kept me hooked to the end. Hannah, an EMT with the SAR unit, was the first arrival at the scene of an accident. A white box van had gone over the edge of the road into a ravine. As she called down to let them know help was coming, she saw an injured man climbing up. But when she looked away to see a deputy arrive, the man disappeared. When the rescuers climbed down to the van, they discovered both remaining victims were dead - with one obviously murdered. They later found out the man she saw was an escaped serial killer.
 
Jake is new to the Eagle Mountain Sheriff's Department. He plans to get experience there before moving to a larger department. He has handled everything from speeders to stray animals, but a manhunt for a serial killer is new. I loved the scene of Jake trying to catch the stray dog. I was not surprised by what happened with the dog, though I laughed out loud at the scene in the jail. Also new is his interest in the pretty EMT.
 
The suspense of the story was fantastic. From the moment Cutler escaped, the race was on to catch him. The process is complicated by Cutler's military experience with extreme weather. I could feel the frustration of the sheriff's department as they always seemed to be a step behind him. The search hits particularly close to home when it becomes evident that Cutler has fixated on Hannah as his next victim. The intensity ramps up as Cutler taunts his pursuers by showing how close he can get without being caught, even causing an avalanche. As the threats against Hannah grow, Jake is determined to keep her safe. The final confrontation is a nail-biter involving weather, a hair-raising rescue, and a fight on the side of a cliff.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Jake and Hannah. Hannah was a little wary at first because she knew Jake didn't plan to stay in Eagle Mountain, and she had no interest in leaving. But they have a lot in common, and their attraction is undeniable. Besides spending time together and getting to know each other, they frequently work together at accident scenes. I loved that Jake was protective yet respectful of Hannah's capabilities. I liked seeing their feelings for each other deepen. Hannah dreamed of a future together but worried about what would happen if Jake got a job offer that would take him away. The ending is perfect and shows a bright future for them.
 
I loved the setting of a Search and Rescue unit in the Colorado mountains. Each member has a unique personality, and I look forward to learning more about them. The rescue situations portrayed in the book felt realistic and kept me interested in their actions. I also liked Hannah's father and found his backstory as a competitive climber intriguing. His willingness to help Jake at the end was critical to the successful resolution of the confrontation.

Rivals at Love Creek - Michelle Lindo-Rice (SSE #2922 - July 2022)

Series: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Book 1)
 
Her biggest rival
Is also her greatest temptation…
 
Shanna Jacobs has ambitions to be the next superintendent. But when a cheating scandal rocks her school, she's put under the supervision of her sexy ex, Lynx Harrington. Also a school principal, Lynx has his eye on the same job. Working to clear an accused cheater's name -- albeit a beautiful one -- only complicates the plan. But their attraction is undeniable. And Shanna's kisses are a perfect ten. Maybe their fledgling partnership will make the grade after all?
 
Good enemies to lovers story and start to the new series. Shanna is a high school principal with ambitions to become the next superintendent. Those plans hit a road bump when several students and teachers are caught cheating on the SATs. Though she had nothing to do with it, Shanna is under intense scrutiny while the investigation continues. This includes being placed under the supervision of rival principal Lynx Harrington. Not only is he her former high school boyfriend, but he is also in the running for the superintendent job.
 
Lynx is not happy to be in charge of Shanna. His memories of their high school breakup make it difficult for him to trust her. His attraction to her only complicates matters.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Shanna and Lynx develop. Their antipathy toward each other is evident in every word of their initial encounter, but they have no choice in working together. Lynx, who had plans to attend an out-of-state auction that week, invited Shanna to go along and make it a working vacation. Shanna was wary but willing to try. The trip started a little rough, with Lynx and Shanna sniping at each other until the subject of their high school relationship came up. They finally cleared up that misunderstanding, leaving Lynx to realize what a jerk he'd been. With that out of the way, the door is open for Shanna and Lynx to rekindle their friendship and maybe a little more.
 
I liked how Lynx helped Shanna see the benefits of a life/work balance by planning fun activities for when they weren't working. Not only did they get to know each other better, but their attraction also grew until they could no longer resist it. It is clear that their feelings for each other grow stronger. But the investigation hanging over Shanna's head raises some issues between them. Lynx is a fixer and wants to do anything he can to help her with her situation. Unfortunately, he tends to jump in with a solution instead of talking to Shanna about it. Shanna is intelligent, independent, and stubborn, and she sees his actions as a lack of trust or belief in her.
 
When Lynx takes his "fix it" attitude too far, Shanna is furious. Their relationship had been going well until then, with both thinking about a future together. This blow splits them apart. I ached for Shanna but felt she was being a bit unreasonable. A conversation with her best friend brought up some ideas Shanna hadn't considered. I liked that Shanna's self-examination showed her that Lynx wasn't the only person in the wrong. Meanwhile, Lynx misses Shanna. He's had an eye-opening conversation with his mother, showing him he has a lot to learn. I enjoyed seeing him search for the best way to show Shanna how he felt. I loved his solution - it was a beautiful expression of his feelings and understanding. The ending was terrific.
 
Family is an essential theme in this book. Shanna has her mother and her younger sister. Mom has dementia, and the scenes of Shanna's visits with her are heartbreaking. Shanna's biggest worries during this book are losing her job and being unable to provide for her mother. She also helps support her younger sister, Yanni, who is in college. I liked the closeness between Yanni and Shanna.
 
Lynx is part of a large family. When they were young, he and his brother Hawk were adopted by the Harringtons. Lynx and Hawk are white, and the Harringtons are Black, but that never made a difference when they were growing up. He is also close with his five other brothers. I enjoyed the scenes with the brothers together. There is a lot of teasing, but the support is unquestioning. I look forward to reading their stories.
 
There is a fair amount of time spent showing the issues Shanna faces as a Black woman in her profession. Her anger and hurt at her treatment are understandable. The incident at the convenience store was well-portrayed and disturbingly realistic. I was happy to see Lynx wanted to understand - his conversation with his mom was especially enlightening.

The Officer's Convenient Proposal - Joanna Johnson (HH #1668 - Aug 2022)

Is a paper wedding
…the only solution?
 
Returning from battle, Officer Jonah Grant is shocked to find his frail sister abandoned by her husband and their life savings squandered. Which is why a chance encounter with wealthy independent neighbor Frances feels like fate! He and Frances both find it hard to let down their defenses, but take refuge in each other's company. If they are willing to risk their newfound friendship, a convenient marriage could be a savior for them both…
 
Good book about two lonely and stubborn people. Frances inherited her uncle's farm when he died. Frances is the illegitimate daughter of her mother and a married man, a man who abandoned her mother when she needed him most. Uncle Robert raised Frances to be independent and wary of trusting any man after her mother's death. Frances was bullied, ostracized, and ridiculed all her life because of her mother. Now she is left to work the farm alone, exhausted at the end of every day.
 
Lt. Jonah Gray returned from Waterloo to find that his brother-in-law stole their life savings and abandoned Jonah's sister and two children. With what little money Jonah had left, he purchased a dilapidated cottage and hoped to find a way to support them all. After meeting Frances, he thinks that marrying her may be the path to a better life for Jane and the children if he can win her favor.
 
Neither Jonah nor Frances ever planned to marry. Frances has severe trust issues regarding men - and who can blame her with the way she is treated? Jonah saw enough of the bad side of marriage from his abusive and negligent parents and Jane's marriage to swear off the institution. The first meeting between Jonah and Frances wasn't promising. Jonah is a handsome man and used to women chasing him, but his attempt to charm Frances falls flat. The next couple of encounters don't go well either. It isn't until Jonah comes to her defense against an obnoxious man that she begins to soften slightly. Jonah realizes that he needs to win Frances's trust before anything else.
 
While Jonah thinks he's being practical and calculating in his pursuit of Frances, he's disturbed by the protectiveness he feels toward her and his inability to keep his mind off her. Frances suffers from the same malady. She doesn't understand why he stirs feelings in her that she's never felt for anyone else. The sparks of attraction between them were evident from the start, as was their dismay about it. Jonah is smart enough to back off any indication of his attraction and offers Frances simple friendship as a way to get his foot in the door. The attraction still simmers under the surface, but Frances relaxes a little in his company. I loved that Jonah didn't push too hard but showed Frances the benefit of occasionally accepting help. It isn't easy for Frances to go against her training and her struggle is obvious.
 
Eventually, circumstances make it necessary for them to marry. Jonah suggests it as a business partnership, as neither wanted a spouse. There are certain benefits to marriage that they indulge in, claiming that it is practical, too. When friendship and attraction grew into love, neither believed the other could feel the same way. As Jane's health worsened and Jonah became desperate to find a solution to her housing situation, he made a boneheaded decision. I wanted to shake him and yell at him to talk to Frances and tell her the truth. The solution was right in front of him. Instead, his plan would betray Frances in the worst way possible. I ached for her when she found out about it; her pain leaped off the pages. I had high hopes that Jonah would do the right thing after all. I loved the ending, as Jonah had a very moving, emotional grovel scene while Frances made him work for his forgiveness. The final chapter was a good wrap-up for the story.