Protecting Her Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen

Protecting Her Heart (Matchmakers #3)
By Nancy Campbell Allen
Published by Shadow Mountain
Publication Date: January 2, 2024

Description from the publisher:
London, 1887 When newly graduated medical doctor Charlotte Duvall receives word that her father has died, she immediately leaves America and returns home to see to her family's estate. Among her father's possessions is a box of her late mother's letters, which feels like a balm to Charlotte's grief-stricken heart. But the letters contain some inconsistencies that suggest there was more to her mother's death than Charlotte had been told. She turns to the one man she trusts more than anyone--her treasured friend and director of London's police force, John Ellis.
John Ellis has harbored feelings for Charlotte ever since he first met her. Tucked into his heart are thoughts of her sharp mind, quick wit, and remarkable beauty. Though he has not yet found the courage to share his feelings with the young doctor, he is eager to help her in her hour of need. Investigating the details of a death was not how Charlotte imagined she would find love, but as she and John work to unravel a dark web of secrets and lies, she finds herself relying on him more and more--and opening her heart to him in the process. As the danger draws ever closer, John vows to do everything in his power to protect Charlotte from harm. But he fears protecting her heart might come at the cost of breaking his own.

My review:
Fantastic! I completely devoured this book. From the get-go, I was drawn in by Charlotte and John and their story. I loved the friendship between them and how the attraction quickly flared up when they were together again. I also appreciated that there wasn't a whole bunch of dithering (e.g. oh, he can't possibly like me; oh, she's too good for me, etc.) but just a rather straightforward romance--yes, there were obstacles but they weren't pretending not to have feelings for each other. I loved their banter and the way they worked together. The mystery aspect and the details of Victorian life were also really engrossing.
5 stars.

Content note: This is a clean read as far as sexual content. It does get a bit gory as Charlotte delves into what happened to her mother.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Queen and the Knave AND The Dread Penny Society by Sarah M. Eden

The Queen and the Knave 

By Sarah M. Eden 

Published by Shadow Mountain 

Publication Date: September 5, 2023 

Description from the publisher: 

Romance and mystery come full circle in the fifth and final book of Sarah M. Eden’s best-selling Victorian Proper Romance series. 

London, 1866 

Móirín Donnelly has spent the last five years working in the shadows for the Dread Penny Society, a secret fraternity of penny dreadful authors who use their profits, influence, and street smarts to protect the poor and vulnerable of Victorian London. But spending so much of her life in secret is taking its toll on her soul—and her heart. When members of the Dread Penny Society begin disappearing, Móirín turns to her friend Detective Constable Fitzgerald Parkington for help. The two have developed a friendly rapport, and Móirín feels like she can trust him, though perhaps not with all of her secrets.

Fitzgerald Parkington has a sixth sense when it comes to tracking down criminals, which is why he’s recently been transferred to the Detective Department at Scotland Yard. But when roadblocks and red tape keep him from tracking down the criminal mastermind known as “The Tempest,” he must rely on the one woman who has unexpectedly captured his heart—the brash, bold, and fiery Irish lass, Móirín Donnelly. 

As the Tempest’s deadly reach threatens to overwhelm all of London, Móirín and Fitz are caught in an elaborate game of cat and mouse that leads down back alleys, through dark London buildings, and right to the gates of Kensington Palace. Móirín has one chance to save Fitz and the Dread Penny Society from the Tempest, and she might have to sacrifice her one chance at love to do so. 

My Review: 

First, let me emphatically state that this series MUST be read in order, so if you haven't read the earlier books, stop reading this review and get a copy of The Lady and the Highwayman and dive in! 

If you need a quick review of the other books in the series, take a look here: 

The Lady and the Highwayman 

The Gentleman and the Thief 

The Merchant and the Rogue 

The Bachelor and the Bride 

Now, my review...

I love everything about this book! This has been my most-anticipated book of the year, and I'm happy to report that it exceeded my very high expectations. 

Characters--Móirín Donnelly is just a fantastic lead character. I've loved every glimpse of her throughout the series and was so stoked when I first found out that she'd get her own book, and this totally exceeded any expectations I had. Detective Constable Fitzgerald Parkington hasn't had as many appearances in the series, but seeing him alongside Móirín, I totally adored him. They are perfect for each other. They're terrific at supporting each other and teasing each other. I absolutely adore a book with good banter, and Sarah M. Eden does banter better than just about anyone! Secondary characters are also great; I love seeing all of my favorite characters from the earlier books in the series.

Plot--Holy cow! I reread all of the previous books right before reading this one so everything would be fresh in my mind, and while that's not strictly necessary to enjoy the book, I'm so glad I did because it just made it that much more intriguing as I tried to guess what would happen next based on what had happened before. I'm so impressed by how everything came together. 

Setting--This series piqued my interest in Victorian England, and it's only grown since the first book. I love seeing what life was like for various classes of people in Victorian England. 

Writing--Sarah M. Eden is my favorite author; I just really love her writing style. Everything is planned out so well and the writing is smart, fast, and engaging. (I also love the fact that she's an avid researcher so I can trust that the details are right!) I know there are some readers who don't love having the penny dreadfuls thrown into the books, but I've enjoyed each one. I love seeing the parallels between the penny dreadfuls and the plots as well as seeing what the penny dreadfuls reveal about the character who is authoring each one. (I also think it's totally brilliant of Sarah Eden to keep the voices of each distinct, rather than making each penny dreadful sound like every other one.)

So, again, I loved this book and the series. I think this was a practically perfect ending to the series, and I can't wait to re-read it. 

5 stars. Not only is this one of my picks for one of the best books of the yea, it gets the title of my favorite book of the year.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Dread Penny Society

By Sarah M. Eden
Published by Shadow Mountain

Description from the publisher: 

This beautiful, cloth-covered hardcover collector’s anthology compiles all the penny dreadful short stories from Sarah M. Eden’s five-book Victorian romance series. Included in this edition are three new, never-before-released stories. Each short story is written in the style of the Victorian fiction that became so popular during that time period. From ghost stories to adventures to mysteries, Sarah weaves these gothic tales among her romantic storylines, making it the perfect way to celebrate the Dread Penny Society series.

My Review:
I think it's so cool that these stories are gathered together--and I was especially excited that one of the three new stories is by Stone--he's one of my favorite characters. I'd love to have seen him get his own book, but since that didn't happen, this is the next best thing. The penny dreadfuls are so fun to read, both for the parallels to the main books and for the insights into the "author's" of each's personality. (As mentioned above, I think the fact that Sarah Eden could give each author a distinctive style and voice in an excellent illustration of her amazing writing skills!) I thoroughly enjoyed each story and each character. So well done!

I read an e-ARC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

So, there you have it. This whole is absolutely fabulous. I've loved each book, and I can't wait to re-read them!

The Art of Love and Lies by Rebecca Anderson

The Art of Love and Lies 

By Rebecca Anderson 

Published by Shadow Mountain 

Description from the publisher: 

  A free-spirited artist teams up with a no-nonsense detective to capture a thief who has stolen a priceless Michaelangelo painting. 

Manchester, England, 1857 

Rosanna Hawkins is one of Manchester’s finest artists, even though no one knows her name. She reproduces “parlor versions” of classic masterpieces with near-perfect precision, which her employer then sells to the emerging upper-middle class families. 

When the largest art exhibition ever to be held in England opens in Manchester, Rosanna is excited to visit. She meets the handsome Inspector Martin Harrison, who is head of security, and is immediately intrigued by his charm, confidence, and portrait-worthy good looks. The two spend many a flirtatious afternoon exploring the exhibition hall, discussing art, and sharing their secret hopes. Rosanna dreams of painting something original and meaningful, and Martin hopes to one day shed the shadow of his father’s notorious past. 

But when they discover the theft of some of the paintings—and all the evidence points to Rosanna—she must convince Inspector Harrison she is innocent and proposes a plan to capture the real art thief. 

It is a daring race to catch the criminal before he disappears with the most priceless piece in the collection—Michaelangelo’s The Manchester Madonna. If Rosanna and Inspector Harrison fail, not only will the painting be lost forever but so will their chance to paint their own happily ever after. 

Advanced Reviews: 

“Enchanting. An art thief can't prevent love from blooming.” —Foreword Reviews, starred review

“Exciting historical romance. A tender love story.” —Library Journal 

“The romantic escapades of this unlikely duo will keep readers eagerly turning pages.” —Publishers Weekly

My Review:
I think my favorite part of this book might actually have been the setting--I'm totally intrigued by Victorian England and love learning new things about it, so getting glimpses of the Art Treasures Exhibition in Manchester in 1857 was really cool. I also like the banter between Martin and Rosanna; they were quite cute together! There were a few plot points that were a little hard to believe (like how Rosanna escapes a couple of situations), but all in all, this romance was fun to read.
3.5 stars.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Earl's Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed (Romance of Rank #2) by Esther Hatch

The Earl's Hideaway, No Ladies Allowed (Romance of Rank #2)
By Esther Hatch

Description
If there is one woman Samson Rutherford, Earl of Riverton, can’t abide, it is his meddling sister. He has spent his whole life being a pawn in her plans and tricks, but when one of her schemes leaves him dressed in women’s clothing, he has finally had enough. He cannot beat her at her games, or even say no to her, his only option to save his sanity and pride is to run away--and fortunately, his solicitor knows just the place…
Catherine Wallace wasn’t born to be a governess, but with her family’s fall from grace, she has become one. A good one. However, when the chance arises to stay at her uncle’s home so she can care for his horticulture project while he is absent, she jumps at the chance. Leaving her position, she plans to gather her sisters together so they can be a family again--even if it is only for a little while.
But the last thing Catherine expected to find upon her arrival was her childhood friend. Samson has sequestered himself at the cottage and claims to have been invited to watch over her uncle’s business while he is away. But Catherine insists that’s what she’s been asked to do. The quiet retreat is what they both need, but who will get to stay?
Not Samson, because he has never gotten the better of a woman, not since… well, not since Catherine let him kiss her years ago…
Come to think of it, perhaps it is time for Samson to win after all.

 
Review:

Poor Samson! His sister really was a lot to handle! I would have gotten sick of her a lot sooner than he did! In fact, at the outset of the book, I think I felt more strongly (negatively) toward Dru than I did positively toward either Samson or Catherine; I just wasn't very invested in them early on. As I read on, I did connect with them more, and I really wanted to see them figure things out! I totally loved the ending of the book. If you like books that are humorous (in a bit of a madcap way) with great kissing scenes, this is for you! 

4 stars.

I read an ARC provided by the author. All opinions are my own.

To Capture His Heart (Matchmakers #2) by Nancy Campbell Allen

To Capture His Heart

By Nancy Campbell Allen 

Published by Shadow Mountain 

Description:

Seaside, England 1886 

Eva Caldwell is an accomplished and well-known photographer who often works with the local constabulary to assist in documenting crime scenes, which means she also often works alongside the handsome and charming Detective Nathan Winston. She appreciates his intellect and how he treats her like an equal, but Eva’s heart is still healing from a past relationship, so, for now, she decides to keep her feelings for Nathan a secret. 

One evening, Nathan arrives on her doorstep asking for a personal favor. Would Eva be available to photograph his mother’s legendary, week-long dinner party and matchmaking event? The catch is that Eva would also have to pretend they are courting in order for Nathan to avoid the many single women seeking his attention. 

Though wary of the charade, Eva agrees. Spending a week with the two things she loves most—her detective and her camera—sounds simple enough. And if she wants to imagine that Nathan’s pretend courtship of her is real, well, what’s the harm in that? 

But when a criminal from Nathan’s past threatens revenge on the detective, Nathan must be extra vigilant to keep his mother and the rest of the partygoers safe. He confides in Eva, and as the two work together to solve the mystery and apprehend the criminal, they find that they might capture more than they expected—each other’s heart. 

About the Author:

Nancy Campbell Allen is the award-winning author of nineteen published novels and several novellas, which encompass a variety of genres, ranging from contemporary romantic suspense to historical fiction. Her most recent books, which include Regency, Victorian, and steampunk romance, are published under Shadow Mountain’s Proper Romance brand, and the What Happens in Venice novella series is part of the Timeless Romance Anthology collection published by Mirror Press. She has presented at numerous conferences and events since her initial publication in 1999. 

Her agent is Pamela Pho of D4EO Literary Agency. 

Nancy loves to read, write, travel, and research, and enjoys spending time with family and friends. She nurtures a current obsession for true crime podcasts and is a news junkie. She and her husband have three children, and she lives in Ogden, Utah, with her family, one very large Siberian Husky named Thor and an obnoxious but endearing Yorkie-poo named Freya. 

For author interview requests, please contact Callie Hansen at chansen@shadowmountain.com 

Advance Praise:

“A photographer and a detective go from friends to lovers while searching for a killer in this thrilling Victorian romance. The couple's connection is so undeniable that even readers who usually look for heat in their romances won't mind the lack of steamy scenes. This delectable treat is sure to keep readers guessing.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review 

“Allen once again combines love and mystery in her second "Matchmakers" series installment (following The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart). Readers will enjoy how the intrigue and romance increase in tandem, ratcheting up the suspense, while Eva's competent demeanor that hides a bruised heart makes this love story all the more touching.” —Library Journal 

Upcoming Appearances: 

November 17, 2022 6:30-8:30 PM 

Kaysville Branch Library 

215 N Fairfield Rd 

Kaysville, UT 

 With Proper Romance authors, Josi S. Kilpack, Arlem Hawks, and Jentry Flint

Review:
Wow! This book packed a punch! There's a dynamite plot--the mystery was quite interesting--and the romance was terrific. If this had been another book where the main characters take forever to figure out that they like each other, it would have been very tedious, so I love the fact that the charade didn't last very long. Although this is a clean romance, the chemistry was great, and I loved seeing Eva and Nathan together--they respected and supported each other and had some great banter. This was just pure fun to read.

5 stars.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

In the Shadow of a Queen by Heather B. Moore

 

In the Shadow of a Queen

By Heather B. Moore

Published by Shadow Mountain

Description
Based on the true story of the free-spirited daughter of Queen Victoria.

 As a young woman, Princess Louise is considered the most beautiful and talented daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. She is also strong-willed and resists following the queen’s rigid rules and strict protocols for a princess.
After her father’s untimely death, Louise’s life is upended by the inconsolable grief of her mother and the rippling effect that rocks the British Empire. Captive to the queen’s overwhelming mourning, Louise is forbidden to leave her mother’s tight circle of control, attend balls, or have any kind of relationship outside the royal family. She is relegated to the position of personal secretary to her mother—the same position each of her sisters held until they were married.
Already an accomplished painter, Louise risks the queen’s wrath by exploring the art of sculpting, an activity viewed as unbefitting a woman. When Louise involves herself in the day’s political matters without Queen Victoria’s approval, including championing the career of a female doctor and communicating with suffragettes, the queen lays down the law to stop her and devotes her full energy and resources to finding an acceptable match for her defiant daughter.
In the Shadow of a Queen is the story of an epic battle of wills between two women: a daughter determined to forge her own life beyond the shadow of her mother, and a queen resolved to keep the Crown’s reputation unsullied no matter the cost.

Review

This book was very informative, with lots of details about Louise's life and family, what she wore, all of the rules she had to follow, etc. It gave really interesting insights into her life and just felt so well-researched!  The pace of this one was pretty slow, but Louise was just delightful, and I liked seeing her character and how she interacted with her mother and her siblings. My favorite part of the book was the husband hunt and the ensuing romance--ooh, there were some sweet moments!

4 stars.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

An Autumn Kiss (Timeless Victorian Collection Book 7)

An Autumn Kiss 

Published by Mirror Press 

Description: 

An Autumn Kiss is the seventh book in the Timeless Victorian Collection, a bestselling anthology series from Mirror Press. The book features three novellas from acclaimed historical romance authors whose stories reveal if one kiss will change the lives of the three heroines. 

“The Plucky Miss Ruth” 

by Laura Rollins 

Miss Ruth Hughes is certain she’s caught in a time loop—every day she wakes to find it exactly as the one before. A thrilling prospect to be sure. If the many books she reads on time travel has taught her anything, it is that to break free she must complete an all-important task. For Ruth the task is straightforward: reunite a couple, once desperately in love but forced apart by society. Unfortunately, things are not always as easy as they first appear. Struggling, Ruth opens up to the handsome Lord Lambert and he readily agrees to help. With autumn on the brink of turning into winter, time is running out for Ruth to help the ones who need her most. And, with a bit of luck, perhaps she can even find a little time for her own happily ever after. 

“Mr. Dowling’s Remedy” 

by Annette Lyon 

Crandall Dowling’s aspirations of becoming a physician collapse when he develops symptoms that land him in an asylum. He’s been at Sherville Retreat long enough for autumn leaves to appear when Beverly Stanton arrives. She’s held under the dubious diagnosis of “hysteria” but seems perfectly sane, unlike Crandall, though his verbal and physical tics don’t seem to scare or even bother her. Beverly and Crandall develop a friendship fueled by an undeniable attraction that under other circumstances could become more. But in an asylum, one cannot plan a future, let alone one of love or marriage. Then tragedy strikes, testing staff and patients beyond anyone’s training. When the dust settles, Beverly’s diagnosis may be reversed, but if she leaves, what will become of her? What of Crandall? And what of their autumn-born love? 

“A Railway Through the Roses” 

by Lisa H. Catmull 

 Mr. Adrian Everard has tried everything to keep his father’s factory open, but a single solution remains. Marry an heiress before Christmas to fund the desperately needed railway. The local landowner, Lady Anne Baxter, will not agree to sell her garden—or her heart. Indeed, his childhood friend is determined to sabotage all his efforts to find a wife. As the deadline for Adrian to choose a bride draws close, one thing becomes painfully obvious. Saving the factory will mean losing the woman he loves forever. 

About the Series 

Since 2015, Mirror Press has been presenting the Timeless Romance Collection, a curated anthology of novellas and short stories featuring bestselling authors from the contemporary and historical romance genres. The collection has hit the USA TODAY bestselling list and charted at #1 at Amazon.com. Learn more about the series and other anthologies published by Mirror Press at their website. 

Review:

"The Plucky Miss Ruth" was delightful! I love a story with good dialogue, and I smiled so much at all of Ruth's conversations with Lord Lambert. I really enjoyed this story! I just really liked Mr. Lambert and how he appreciated Ruth for who she was. 

Moving from that story to "Mr. Dowling’s Remedy" was a bit jarring, as the first story was much more lighthearted. However, it didn't take long for me to be engrossed in the details--it was really fascinating to see what an asylum in the Victorian era was like--as well as charmed by Crandall and Beverly and their sweet romance.

"A Railway through the Roses" had a fantastic opening line, but I did find the plot, with Anne going from being angry with Adrian to being friends with him (and so on and so on) and Adrian flirting with her one minute and then with a different heiress the next, to be a bit dizzying.  Stories that center around miscommunication (or noncommunication) aren't my favorite, but this one made me laugh more than once and I appreciated the clean romance. 

I listened to an audio production of the book and quite liked the narrator. 

4 stars. 

I received a copy of the ebook and audio version from the publisher. All opinions are my own. 

The Bachelor and the Bride (The Dread Penny Society #4) by Sarah M. Eden

The Bachelor and the Bride (The Dread Penny Society #4) 

By Sarah M. Eden 

Published by Shadow Mountain 

Publication Date: September 6, 2022 

Description: 

London, 1866 

 Dr. Barnabus Milligan has always felt called to help people, whether that means setting a broken bone or rescuing the impoverished women of London from their desperate lives on the streets as part of his work with the Dread Penny Society. Three years ago, he helped rescue Gemma Kincaid by secretly marrying her to protect her from her family of notorious grave robbers. 

But six months after Gemma and Barnabus exchanged vows, she realized her love for her new husband was unrequited. To protect her heart, she left, telling Barnabus to contact her if his feelings for her ever grew beyond a sense of duty. When Barnabus sends a letter to Gemma inviting her to return home, she hopes to find a true connection between them. But unfortunately, he only wants her help to foil the Kincaids, who have been terrorizing the boroughs of London, eager to gain both money and power.

Heartbroken, Gemma agrees to help, but she warns Barnabus that she will not stay for long, and once she goes, he'll never see her again. Yet as the couple follows the clues that seem to connect the Kincaids to the Mastiff, the leader of London's criminal network, Gemma and Barnabus realize they might make a better match than either of them suspected. Perhaps the marriage that had once saved Gemma's life might now save Barnabus—and his lonely heart. But before the once-confirmed bachelor can properly court his secret bride, they'll need to evade the dangerous forces that are drawing ever closer to the hopeful lovers and the entire Dread Penny Society itself.

Review: 

HOLY COW! I'll get to my real review soon, but WOW!!! I need the next book in the series to come out ASAP because I don't think I can handle waiting!! I NEED TO KNOW what happens next!!!!! 

I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and I of course jumped at the chance to read an ARC of this book. While normally the characters are what I enjoy best about pretty much any book, the plot sort of stole the show in this one. That's not a criticism of the characters--I liked Doc and Gemma and felt like they were well-developed, with believable motivations and very interesting backstories--but rather an indication that there a LOT going on in the plot, with twists and turns and danger that kept me guessing what was going to happen next! By the time you reach the last quarter of the book, you should definitely make sure you have time to just read straight through to the end because it's pretty much impossible to put it down at that point! There are some BIG twists, and maybe other readers saw them all coming but for me, there were a couple of jaw-dropping moments because I DIDN'T expect something to turn out the way that it did, and when I initially finished, I just had no words beyond "WOW!" So, yeah, the plot blew my mind a few times, the characters were great, and the setting was fantastic. Sarah Eden does such a fabulous job weaving details into the story and making Victorian England come alive. I seriously can't wait for the next book in this series! 

5 stars.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

About the Auhor:

Sarah M. Eden is a USA Today best-selling author of witty and charming historical romances, including 2019’s Foreword Reviews INDIE Awards Gold Winner for Romance, The Lady and the Highwayman, and 2020 Holt Medallion finalist, Healing Hearts. She is a two-time “Best of State” Gold Medal winner for fiction and a three-time Whitney Award winner. Combining her obsession with history and her affinity for tender love stories, Sarah loves crafting deep characters and heartfelt romances set against rich historical backdrops. She holds a bachelor’s degree in research and happily spends hours perusing the reference shelves of her local library. 

For author interview requests, please contact Callie Hansen at chansen@shadowmountain.com

The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen

The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart 

By Nancy Campbell Allen 

Published by: Shadow Mountain 

Synopsis:

Amelie Hampton is a hopeless romantic, which makes her the perfect columnist to answer lonely heart letters in The Marriage Gazette. When Amelie plays matchmaker with two anonymous lonely hearts, she also decides to secretly observe the couple’s blind date. To her surprise, the man who appears for the rendezvous is Harold Radcliffe—a grieving widower and a member of Amelie’s book club.

Police detective Michael Baker has been struggling ever since his best friend and brother-in-law died in the line of fire. Because he knows the dangers of his job, he has vowed never to marry and subject a wife and family to the uncertainty of his profession. But when he meets Miss Hampton, he is captured by her innocence, beauty, and her quick mind.

When a woman’s body is pulled from the river, Michael suspects the woman’s husband—Harold Radcliffe—of foul play. Amelie refuses to believe that Harold is capable of such violence but agrees to help, imagining it will be like one of her favorite mystery novels. Her social connections and clever observations prove an asset to the case, and Amelie is determined to prove Mr. Radcliffe’s innocence. But the more time Amelie and Michael spend together, the more they trust each other, and the more they realize they are a good team, maybe the perfect match.

They also realize that Mr. Radcliffe is hiding more than one secret, and when his attention turns toward Amelie, Michael knows he must put an end to this case before the woman he loves comes to harm.

Review: 

This book was really fun and interesting. I wouldn't ever pick out a murder mystery to read, but I appreciate how this book brought together the murder mystery with romance and put it all into the Victorian era. It made it similar enough to what I like to read for me to enjoy it while simultaneously being different enough to make it give me a break from what I normally read and keep things fresh. So I really liked that. I also liked the characters; Amelie and Michael are very different and yet they worked well together. I was also intrigued by secondary characters whom I hope to see more of in future books. Fun book for a quick escape. 

4 stars. 

I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

About the Author:

NANCY CAMPBELL ALLEN is the award-winning author of eighteen published novels and several novellas, which encompass a variety of genres, ranging from contemporary romantic suspense to historical fiction. Her most recent books, which include Regency, Victorian, and steampunk romance, are published under Shadow Mountain’s Proper Romance brand, and the What Happens in Venice novella series is part of the Timeless Romance Anthology collection published by Mirror Press. She has presented at numerous conferences and events since her initial publication in 1999.

Nancy loves to read, write, travel, and research, and enjoys spending time with family and friends. She nurtures a current obsession for true crime podcasts and is a news junkie. She and her husband have three children, and she lives in Ogden, Utah, with her family, one very large Siberian Husky named Thor, and an obnoxious but endearing YorkiePoo named Freya.

For author interview requests, please contact Callie Hansen at chansen@shadowmountain.com

Advance Praise:

“Allen pairs a matchmaker and a detective in this charming Victorian romance. Allen expertly combines mystery and romance into a fast-paced tale complete with plenty of surprises and a central relationship founded on mutual admiration and respect. Readers are sure to appreciate the strong, well-shaded heroine and twisty plot.”

—Publishers Weekly

“Allen's chaste tale of Victorian romantic suspense will also appeal to historical mystery readers, and it would be great for mother-and-daughter reads. This has great appeal for teens who like historical fiction laced with mystery and romance.”

—Booklist

“Michael and Amelie's slow-burning romances combines well with the fast-paced tale of surprise, death, and heart. The core of the story is their relationship; it builds from a place of admiration and respect, and eschews any forced obstacles to being together. Amelie is a nuanced heroine who is both naïve and fierce as she gathers her knowledge of fictional crimes and joins Michael in his off-duty undercover work. And the endearing secondary cast of friends and coworkers results in humor and warmth; they support Amelie's headstrong nature and Michael's softening heart. Charming...combines a Victorian murder mystery with an endearing romance between two souls.”

—Foreword Reviews

Join the tour!

Join the virtual book tour of THE MATCHMAKER’S LONELY HEART, Nancy Campbell Allen’s highly acclaimed historical novel, September 6-19, 2021. Thirty popular on-line influencers specializing in historical romance, mystery/suspense, and inspirational fiction will join in the celebration of its release with spotlights, exclusive excerpts, and reviews of this new Victorian-era novel set in London, England.

TOUR SCHEDULE

Sept 06 Timeless Novels (Review) 

Sept 07 The Book Diva Reads (Excerpt)

Sept 07 Wishful Endings (Review) 

Sept 08 Robin Loves Reading (Review) 

Sept 08 A Darn Good Read (Review) 

Sept 08 Storeybook Reviews (Spotlight) 

Sept 08 Austenesque Reviews (Review) 

Sept 09 Bookfoolery (Review) 

Sept 09 The Lit Bitch (Excerpt) 

Sept 10 The Bluestocking (Review) 

Sept 10 Bookworm Lisa (Review) 

Sept 10 The Silver Petticoat Review (Review) 

Sept 11 Book Confessions of an Ex-Ballerina (Review) 

Sept 11 My Bookish Bliss (Review) 

Sept 11 Nurse Bookie (Review) 

Sept 12 The Bibliophile Files (Review) 

Sept 12 My Jane Austen Book Club (Spotlight) 

Sept 13 Heidi Reads (Excerpt) 

Sept 13 Reading with Emily (Review) 

Sept 13 Our Book Confessions (Review) 

Sept 14 Rosanne E. Lortz (Review) 

Sept 14 Laura's Reviews (Review) 

Sept 14 Beauty in the Binding (Spotlight) 

Sept 15 All-of-a-Kind Mom (Review) 

Sept 15 Gwendalyn's Books (Review) 

Sept 15 Life of Literature (Review) 

Sept 16 From Pemberley to Milton (Review) 

Sept 16 Probably at the Library (Spotlight) 

Sept 17 Greenish Bookshelf (Review) 

Sept 17 Relz Reviewz (Review) 

Sept 18 Novel Kicks (Review) 

Sept 19 Historical Fiction with Spirit (Excerpt)

The Merchant and the Rogue (The Dread Penny Society #3) by Sarah M. Eden

The Merchant and the Rogue (The Dread Penny Society #3)

By Sarah M. Eden

Published by Shadow Mountain

Description:

London, 1865 

Vera Sorokina loves reading the Penny Dreadfuls and immersing herself in tales of adventure, mystery, and romance. Her own days are filled with the often mundane work of running the book and print shop she owns with her father. The shop offers her the freedom and income to employ and protect the poverty-stricken Londoners she’s come to care about, and it gives her father something to do other than long for their hometown of St. Petersburg. She is grateful for the stability in their lives, but she often feels lonely.

Brogan Donnelly was born and raised in Ireland, but has lived in London for several years, where he’s built a career as a Penny Dreadful writer. He has dedicated himself to the plight of the poor with the help of his sister. His membership in the secretive Dread Penny Society allows him to feel he isn’t entirely wasting his life, yet he feels dissatisfied. With no one to share his life with but his sister, he fears London will never truly feel like home. 

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

Review: 

Oh, man, after reading the first book in this series and the male protagonist, Fletcher Walker, quickly becoming one of my favorite leading men of all time, I anticipated enjoying the remaining books in the series but not having any character surpass Fletcher. And in the second book, that was true--I did quite like the characters but Fletcher remained my favorite. Here, though, in the third book, Brogan Donnelly has given Fletcher a run for his money in my esteem. I still love Fletcher, but Brogan has the advantage of being an Irishman (I love all the Irish characters Sarah M. Eden has ever written!), and I found him and his insecurities so endearing. It was really interesting to read a story with a male character who is insecure, who sees himself as a good "foot soldier" but not a general, not someone who can strike out on his own and take the lead. That made him very fascinating--and then throw in his good heart and how he's trying to take care of as many people as he possibly can, and I just adored him. I also really liked Vera; she's as kind-hearted as Brogan, looking out for her customers and fellow merchants. I was pulled in by the plot, wanting to see how things would play out, and while there are definitely things that will need to be resolved in later books in the series, things wrapped up at a good spot in this novel. As for the two penny dreadfuls woven in through the book, I really liked those as well, particularly Mr. King's. I liked seeing the parallels between the penny dreadful and the main story. This is one of those books that I wanted to start re-reading as soon as I finished reading it. It's also one I'm hoping will be made into an audiobook because I think it would awesome to listen to these characters! This is definitely one of my favorites of 2021! 

5 stars.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

AUTHOR BIO

Sarah M. Eden is the author of critically acclaimed and award-winning Proper Romance series novels including The Lady and the Highwayman and Ashes on the Moor. Combining her passion for history and an affinity for love stories, Sarah crafts smart, witty characters and heartfelt romances. She happily spends hours perusing the reference shelves of her local library and dreams of one day traveling to all the places she reads about.

Join the virtual book tour of THE MERCHANT AND THE ROGUE, Sarah M. Eden’s highly acclaimed historical romance, August 16-29, 2021. Thirty-five popular on-line influencers specializing in historical romance, mystery/suspense, and inspirational fiction will join in the celebration of its release with spotlights, exclusive excerpts, and reviews of this new Victorian-era novel set in London, England.

TOUR SCHEDULE

Aug 16 Among the Reads (Review) 

Aug 16 Austenprose (Review) 

Aug 16 Reading is My Superpower (Review) 

Aug 17 Literary Time Out (Review) 

Aug 17 Getting Your Read On (Review) 

Aug 17 Heidi Reads (Excerpt) 

Aug 17 Laura's Reviews (Review)

Aug 18 Our Book Confessions (Review) 

Aug 18 Bookworm Lisa (Review) 

Aug 19 Fire & Ice (Review) 

Aug 19 From Pemberley to Milton (Excerpt) 

Aug 20 My Bookish Bliss (Review) 

Aug 20 Gwendalyn's Books (Review) 

Aug 20 Storeybook Reviews (Excerpt) 

Aug 21 Bookish Rantings (Review) 

Aug 21 The Calico Critic (Review) 

Aug 22 The Christian Fiction Girl (Review)

 Aug 22 Books, Teacups, & Reviews (Excerpt) 

Aug 23 My Jane Austen Book Club (Spotlight) 

Aug 23 Encouraging Words from the Tea Queen (Review) 

Aug 23 Reading with Emily (Review) 

Aug 24 Wishful Endings (Review) 

Aug 24 Relz Reviewz (Review) 

Aug 24 The Book Diva Reads (Excerpt) 

Aug 25 Bookfoolery (Review) 

Aug 25 Greenish Bookshelf (Review) 

Aug 26 A Bookish Way of Life (Review) 

Aug 26 Nurse Bookie (Review) 

Aug 27 So Little Time… (Excerpt) 

Aug 27 Probably at the Library (Review)

Aug 27 Bringing Up Books (Review)

 Aug 28 Books and Socks Rock (Review) 

Aug 28 The Bibliophile Files (Review) 

Aug 29 Book Confessions of an Ex-Ballerina (Review) 

Aug 29 A Darn Good Read (Review)

Blog Tour for Isabelle and Alexander by Rebecca Anderson

Isabelle and Alexander

By Rebecca Anderson

Published by Shadow Mountain

Description:

Isabelle Rackham knows she will not marry for love. Though arranged marriages have fallen out of fashion, hers has been settled for some time to combine the upper-middle-class wealth of her father's coal mines with Alexander Osgood's prospering Northern country textile mills. Though not a man prone to romantic gestures, Alexander is well-known as an eligible bachelor. His good looks have turned more than one head, so Isabelle is content to think of herself as Alexander's wife. 

However, her marriage is not what she expected. Northern England is nothing like her home farther west in the lake country. Cold, dreary, and dark, the soot from the textile mills creates a gray hue that seems to cling to everything in the city of Manchester. Alexander is distant and aloof, preferring to spend his time at the mill rather than with her at home. Their few conversations are brief, polite, and lacking any emotion, leaving Isabelle lonely and desperately homesick. 

Sensing his wife's unhappiness, Alexander suggests a trip to his country estate. Isabelle hopes this will be an opportunity to get to know her new husband without the distractions of his business. But the change of scenery doesn't bring them any closer. While riding together on horses, Alexander is thrown from his and becomes paralyzed. Tragedy or destiny? The help and care that Alexander now needs is Isabelle's opportunity to forge a connection and create a deep and romantic love where nothing else could.

ADVANCE PRAISE
"Anderson’s first foray into historical romance is an atypical, yet satisfying story set in Victorian Manchester’s upper middle class. Hand this to readers looking for a book that navigates the peaks and valleys of two strangers attempting to make a life together despite the hardships life throws at them."— Library Journal

"Isabelle transitions from an unaware, leisure-class woman to a more enlightened spouse and supporter of the working class. Intimacy and romance develop between Isabelle and Alexander because of simple gestures, like a long look or a thoughtful gift, and their conversations. Their slow, stately courting is reader appropriate for any age or audience. Manchester also gets its due as a place of grit and incredible production. Descriptions of bustling mills reveal their impact on the couple’s family and its fortunes. Isabelle and Alexander is an intimate and touching romance novel that focuses on women’s lives in the business class of industrial England."— Foreword Reviews

"Isabelle must use her quiet spunk, busy mind, and compassionate spirit to woo her husband in a wholly new way. Anderson's debut is a lovely northern England Victorian romance about confronting the seemingly impossible and the power of empathy. Anderson also addresses the time period’s treatment of physical and intellectual disabilities. Most of all, she beautifully depicts love in its many forms beyond romance, such as compassion, patience, and vulnerability; and her characters illustrate the ways that these expressions of love carry us through even the darkest hours. Isabelle’s loving and persevering fervor and devotion will resonate with any caregiver’s heart."— Booklist

My Review:
This book had a lot of really interesting elements. As much as I love a good Regency story, I'm loving the trend of publishing more books set during the Victorian era. I found the details of Isabelle's life as a business owner's wife, as well as the details of Alexander's business really interesting. I thought it was awesome that the book had featured two characters with disabilities--Alexander with his physical paralysis and secondary character Glory with her developmental disability. Getting glimpses of the struggles and the recommended treatments for both as well as their limitations and what they could do was really engaging. (Side note: before knowing what the book was about, I really liked the cover; however, now, while I still think it's a beautiful cover, I wish it actually showed Alexander in his wheelchair. A visual depiction like that would have been really powerful.) Isabelle's character really resonated with me; her emotions fluctuated in a way that seemed very real as she struggled with her new situation and not knowing how to connect with Alexander. I appreciated her resilience and determination as she struggled to figure out how to interact with Alexander and his medical staff, and it was gratifying to see her find her voice. Alexander's character, with his moodiness and frustrations, was also very believable but not as enjoyable. Not having any of the book written from his point of view made it harder to truly see the good aspects, and it was pretty late in the book that we finally got a look at his heart. I wish there had been more of that, both when it did finally come as well as earlier in the book. The tone is understandably somber and the romance is hard-fought rather than fluffy and fun, but the book is well-written and engaging. 

4 stars. 

I read an ARC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

AUTHOR BIO
Rebecca Anderson is the nom de plume of contemporary romance novelist Becca Wilhite, author of Wedding Belles: A Novel in Four Parts, Check Me Out, and My Ridiculous Romantic Obsessions. Isabelle and Alexander is her debut historical romance novel.

High school English teacher by day, writer by night (or very early morning), she loves hiking, Broadway shows, food, books, and movies. She is happily married and a mom to four above-average kids.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

Join the virtual blog tour of ISABELLE AND ALEXANDER (Proper Romance Victorian), Rebecca Anderson’s highly acclaimed historical romance novel, May 3–16, 2021. Over forty popular blogs specializing in historical fiction, inspirational fiction, and Victorian romance will join in the celebration of its release with spotlights, exclusive excerpts, and reviews of this new Victorian-era novel set in Manchester, England.

BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE
May 03 Lu Reviews Books (Review
May 03 Timeless Novels (Review)
May 03 Our Book Confessions (Review)
May 04 Literary Time Out (Review
May 04 My Bookish Bliss (Review)
May 04 The Book Diva's Reads (Excerpt)
May 05 Heidi Reads (Review)
May 05 Laura's Reviews (Review)
May 05 Wishful Endings (Review)
May 05 Gwendalyn's Reviews (Review)
May 06 Margie's Must Reads (Review)
May 06 Encouraging Words from the Tea Queen (Excerpt)
May 06 Relz Reviewz (Review)
May 07 Randi Loves 2 Read (Spotlight)
May 07 The Reading Frenzy (Review)
May 07 Nurse Bookie (Review)
May 08 The Christian Fiction Girl (Review)
May 08 The Bibliophile Files (Review)
May 09 Reading with Emily (Review)
May 09 Fire and Ice (Spotlight)
May 10 My Jane Austen Book Club (Excerpt)
May 10 The Caffeinated Bibliophile (Review)
May 10 Booked Solid (Review)
May 10 From Pemberley to Milton (Spotlight)
May 11 Greenish Bookshelf (Review)
May 11 Captivated Reading (Review)
May 11 The Green Mockingbird (Review)
May 12 For Where Your Treasure Is (Excerpt)
May 12 Bookworm Lisa (Review)
May 13 Books, Teacups & Reviews (Spotlight)
May 13 Library of Clean Reads (Review)
May 13 Robin Loves Reading (Review)
May 13 So Little Time (Excerpt)
May 14 Eli's Novel Reviews (Review)
May 14 The Lit Bitch (Review)
May 14 The Bluestocking (Review)
May 15 Reading Is My Superpower (Review)
May 15 Christian Chick's Thoughts (Review)
May 15 A Darn Good Read (Review)
May 16 The Silver Petticoat Review (Excerpt)
May 16 CozyNookBooks (Review)

PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | DESERET BOOK 

A Proper Scoundrel by Esther Hatch

A Proper Scoundrel 

By Esther Hatch 

Published by Covenant Communications 

Publication Date: May 10, 2021 

Description:

As the successful owner of multiple railroad lines, Diana Barton is all too accustomed to fending off suitors seeking to stake their claim on her wealth. In order to keep the wolves at bay, Diana has contrived the perfect plan: appeal to the most notorious rake in London, the Baron Lord Bryant, to ruin her reputation and scare off the worst of the time wasters. The ruse will be no hardship—she’s secretly been fascinated by the man for years. 

Lord Bryant is well aware of his questionable reputation. Indeed, he has cultivated the image carefully, and the last thing he wants is a wife. But when he’s approached by the younger sister of a business associate, he tells her in no uncertain terms that he cannot help. However, when he sees for himself what she is up against, Bryant grudgingly offers his assistance. Faced with his most complicated entanglement yet, Bryant is firm in his conditions—and Diana knows that to get romantically involved with Bryant would spell certain heartbreak. But as the counterfeit couple grow ever closer, the line between truth and lies becomes blurred, threatening both Lord Bryant’s well-laid plans and the future of Diana’s railroad business.

Review:

EEK! I've been looking forward to reading this book for so long, and it didn't disappoint. This book is easily one of my favorites of the year and one that I want to reread immediately! I've been eager to read Lord Bryant's story and get to know him better; he was such an intriguing character. Seeing his back story and why he did the things he did was so interesting. Diana Barton was also a terrific character. I loved seeing her determination to run her railroad business and how capable and intelligent she was. The two of them were perfect together; every interaction was just so much fun to read. I loved how they teased each other but also challenged and supported each other. I loved the whole book, but the final couple of scenes were especially fabulous. I adored everything about this book! 

5 stars. 

I read an ARC provided by the publisher/author. All opinions are my own.

Solving Sophronia

Solving Sophronia (The Blue Orchid Society #1)
By Jennifer Moore
Published by Covenant Communications

Description:
Lady Sophronia Bremerton is a far cry from the typical debutante, but she's the toast of London's upper class for one simple reason: she's a society columnist for the London Illustrated News, and the gentry loves seeing their exploits printed in the gossip pages. But Sophie has bigger plans - she aspires to be an investigative reporter. When a stuffy ballroom at yet another Season proves to be nothing more than the usual rumor mill, Sophie seeks respite in the library alongside four other young women who, for their own reasons, are also looking for escape. As the conversation turns to their secret ambitions, the women form a sisterhood and a bold plan: they will make their dreams a reality, no matter the obstacles. Thus begins the Blue Orchid Society.
 Hearing of a murder in a London rookery, Sophie seizes the opportunity to prove her skills. Detective Jonathan Graham doesn't believe a civilian, a noblewoman at that, should be anywhere near a murder investigation, but Sophie insists on helping bring the killer to justice. Her investigative prowess doesn't go unnoticed by the police, especially Jonathan, who can't decide whether this intrepid reporter is a thorn in his side or the woman of his dreams. But as the case grows more complicated and dangerous, their very lives - and their hearts - may be at risk.

Review:
Victorian romances are a new favorite of mine. I really enjoy looking at some of the changes that were beginning to happen in society, and with this new Blue Orchid series, Jennifer Moore gives readers a look at women who are breaking into fields previously closed to them. I really liked how Sophie was determined to become a reporter who covered real stories and that she believed in her abilities and put them to good use. I also liked seeing how she enlisted the support of her friends as well as how she and Jonathan worked together. I would have liked to see more of Jonathan's background (and a little more romance, since it mainly happened at the end), but I did enjoy the mystery element and trying to piece together who the murderer was alongside the characters. I didn't like Sophie's family, and I couldn't help but wonder, having read the prequel novella, how Sophie's grandmother reared a son who cared more about society than his daughter; that aspect of the book was disappointing. All in all, a great start to a new series; I can't wait to read more!
4.5 stars.
 I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

A Proper Charade

A Proper Charade
By Esther Hatch
Published by Covenant Communications

Description:
Lady Patience Kendrick was born to a life of privilege, and with the London Season looming, she finds herself facing unprecedented pressure to adhere to the rules of society. Unfortunately, the free-spirited young woman is anything but proper. Patience's elder brother, a former military man, bemoans his sister's antics - but when he accuses her of incurable frivolity, it is simply more than she can bear. Determined to prove her brother wrong, Patience undertakes a drastic experiment: she will disguise herself as a maid and demonstrate her ability to work as hard as anyone.
Taken on as household staff by her brother's former general, Patience soon learns that willingness and ability are two very different things. While her plan sounded promising in theory, the reality is that she is out of her depth - and the irresistibly charming son of the house isn't helping matters. Patience soon finds herself embroiled in a charade far more complicated that she imagined. With both her pride and her heart at stake, she is determined to prove her brother wrong - even as her plans spiral delightfully out of control.

Review:
I smiled so much while I was reading this book! A lady posing as a maid in a man's house is not my favorite storyline, and yet, I enjoyed it in this book. With Patience's desire to prove herself, as well as a tendency to act or speak first and then think later, running away to become a maid actually fit with her personality. Patience was terrible at being a maid, but her enthusiasm and sincerity at trying to do her best were endearing. I loved the fact that she couldn't keep herself from blurting out things that no true maid ever would. She was just a really fun character. Anthony was absolutely perfect and stole my heart right along with Patience's. I mean, how can you not love a man who completely writes out lists and plans, trying so hard to make things work out, and yet will stop to help an inept maid do her job? He was so kind and yet so unaware of his own worth, and I just adored him. (If I hadn't already loved him early on, his sixteen-page letter would have done it!) There are lots of lovable secondary characters, too. I love a book with great dialogue (good banter wins me over pretty quickly!) and there were so many awesome lines!

I just thoroughly enjoyed this book and am picking it as one of my favorite books of the year!

5 stars.

I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

The Lady and the Highwayman

The Lady and the Highwayman
By Sarah M. Eden
Published by Shadow Mountain
Release date: September 3, 2019

As the headmistress of a girls' school, Elizabeth Black needs to be all this is prim and proper in order to maintain support for her school. Her job as a "silver-fork" author, writing for the upper classes in Victorian society--is acceptable. Her secret career as the author Penny Dreadfuls--cheap, sensational stories--is not and must remain a secret or it will threaten everything she has worked for.
When Fletcher Walker, another successful Penny Dreadful author, starts sniffing around, trying to find out who the mysterious author "Mr. King" is, Elizabeth figures "helping" him with his search will enable her to guarantee he never finds out that she is Mr. King. She quickly becomes interested in more than just keeping her secret, however; rumor has it that Fletcher belongs to a secret group of penny dreadful authors, the Dread Penny Society, who work to fight for the poor and working-class and whose ideals seem in line with Elizabeth's own, and Elizabeth is intrigued by the possibility that such a society exists. More than that, though, she's intrigued by Fletcher himself--and he seems equally interested in her.

I read an ARC of this novel in July; just over halfway through the year, I"m going to say not only is this one of my picks for the Best Books of 2019, but it's my personal favorite out of everything I've read this year. I have read a lot of terrific books this year, but there is something about this one that just captured my heart beyond what any other book has done.

So, what did I love about it?
Fletcher, for starters. Oh, how I love a good romantic hero, and I've got a special spot in my heart for a rough-around-the-edges-with-a-heart-of-gold hero, which Fletcher totally is. Having risen from the gutters, he doesn't try to be something he's not, and I love it. He's genuine and gritty while also being compassionate and smart and frankly, pretty stinking sexy!

What else? Elizabeth, of course! I love that she's smart and strong and capable. I love that she doesn't shy away from danger but follows her heart and her conscience and helps those around her. I also really liked that she's confident. And I love that she holds her own with Fletcher and that, despite being "higher class" than he is, never, ever treats him that way but genuinely sees him and his worth.

I also love the secondary characters--Elizabeth's fellow teacher Ana and various members of the Dread Penny Society were great characters and I really, really hope that this book is the first in the series and we'll get to know these characters on a deeper level in future books.

What else did I love? The writing! I am NOT one for long (especially flowery) descriptions. I love snappy dialogue (particularly if it makes me laugh!) and Sarah Eden is a master of that style. The dialogue was terrific and moved the story along well. There were many times when I laughed--I'm smiling now as I write this just thinking about some of those great moments! (Ah! I loved the flirting between Fletcher and Elizabeth! So much fun!) The plot was fun and moved along well and kept my interest the entire time.

I also really liked the setting. I don't read many Victorian novels, but I'll definitely read more if Sarah Eden is the author! I liked seeing more about the society, how it was still very, very divided but there were some pushes toward more equality and educating the poor and things like that.

Something else that was neat was that included in the book were two Penny Dreadfuls--one written by "Mr. King" and one written by Fletcher. It was cool having two extra stories worked into the larger story and was a clever way of showing aspects of Victorian society.

So, basically, I loved the entire thing. With several months left in the year, there is the possibility that another book could steal the "favorite book of the year" title from this one, but it's going to take one heck of a book to be able to do that because I absolutely adored this book.

5 stars and one of my picks for the best books of 2019!

 I read an ARC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

The Orient Express

The Orient Express

This is a collection of three novellas. I thoroughly enjoyed each of these stories. I liked all of the couples, and the setting--aboard the Orient Express--was really cool. I also really enjoyed the Victorian era for the time period; I haven't read nearly enough books set then!

 To Break a Betrothal by Elizabeth Johns Kate is appalled that her now-deceased father arranged a marriage between her and Lord Darlington. She's only met him once, years ago, but his attitude then was enough to convince her she wants nothing to do with him. She sets out for England to convince him that he doesn't want to marry her, either--and she finds herself even more sure that she doesn't want to marry him when, aboard the Orient Express, she meets just the sort of man she could find herself wanting to share her life with.
Stephen has one last duty to complete for the War Office before he returns home to marry an heiress. Disguised as Mr. Brown, he searches for a spy--and in the meantime, finds himself charmed by a fellow traveler, Miss White...but as neither he nor she is traveling under their rightful name, he fears the secrets they hold could prove disastrous when they are revealed.
This was a fun story, and I liked both characters. I haven't read much by Elizabeth Johns before (only one other novella, I think), but I'm glad I had the chance to read her novella here.


Detective Grace Meets Her Match As the (secret) owner and only employee of a detective agency, Grace has found men as a lot to be untrustworthy rogues. She prides herself on being able to notice details and read people--and plays whatever role she needs to in order to protect others. So when she meets Marshall Bailey, she can tell he's hiding something and determines to protect other women from his nature. Only, as she spends time with Marshall, she finds that perhaps his nature isn't what she originally thought.
Marshall Bailey may be a successful author, but he isn't so good at talking to people, especially women. However, he finds himself both drawn to and confused by Grace, who is flirtatious one minute and angry with him the next.
Marshall is pretty adorable; I loved how he wasn't at all the rogue Grace thought he'd be. Grace was kind of rough around the edges; her distrust of men made her unkind to Marshall at times. I thought she was a realistic character, if not always entirely likable. I enjoyed seeing their story unfold and the ending was very sweet.

Married on the Orient Express by Nancy Campbell Allen Emily Grant's brother has been abducted, and his captors demand that Emily provide a valuable statue he won in a card game before he will be released. Emily sets out to save him--only to be joined by Vincent Brady, a Scotland Yard detective working the case. With no room left on the Orient Express, Emily can't get a ticket--until Vincent tells everyone they are married. Posing as husband and wife, the two must devise a plan to rescue Emily's brother, but they also find themselves hoping that this journey will not be the end of their relationship.
This was my favorite of the three stories. I just really, really liked smart, capable Emily and strong, smart Vincent. I loved how Vincent wasn't dismissive of Emily, but instead he supported and welcomed her ideas at the same time as he watched out for her. This was a very sweet and enjoyable story.

I loved this collection! I can't wait for more! 4.5 stars.


I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Heart's Appeal

The Heart's Appeal by Jennifer Delmare

Julia Bernay knows exactly what she wants to do with her life--she's going to be accepted to medical school and become a doctor so she can then go to Africa as a medical missionary. Michael Stephenson is establishing his career as a barrister and planning to court the daughter of a viscount in order to improve his social standing and his sister's. When an accident leaves Michael severely injured, Julia is able to save his life, only later finding out that he is one of the barristers working on a case that could shut down the very medical college she wants to attend. Julia asks Michael to tutor her in Latin--her weakest subject on her upcoming entrance exams--and as he does, he finds her changing his mind about the lawsuit, his plans in life, and God...but honor and circumstances stand in the way of them exploring their growing feelings.

This is such a great series! I love reading about the Bernay sisters, all so different from each other. (The series doesn't have to be read in order.) The setting (Victorian England) is so interesting; I really liked seeing how someone from Julia's station lived, as well as the poorer classes she tried to help. I felt like the characters--not just Michael and Julia but others as well--were well-developed and intriguing. The plot moved well and definitely made me want to keep reading! Highly enjoyable!

 I received a copy of the book from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.

Ashes on the Moor

Ashes on the Moor by Sarah M. Eden

After the death of most of her family, Evangeline's aunt brings her to Smeatley, a factory town totally different from her previous home. Raised in the upper class, Evangeline now must work as a schoolteacher--despite having no experience and barely understanding the Yorkshire accent--if she is to prove herself worthy of the inheritance her grandfather has saved for her and, more importantly, to be reunited with her sister Lucy, who has been sent away to attend school elsewhere. Evangeline's aunt is cruel to her, refusing to acknowledge that they are related, constantly critical of all of Evangeline's efforts, and reluctant to give Evangeline anything that might help her succeed. Irish brick mason Dermot is the only other person she knows, and while he initially seems reluctant to speak to her any more than necessary, he comes to be her dearest friend and biggest support. Dermot's son, Ronan, is different from other children and Dermot is worried about how he'll do at school, but Evangeline seems to understand his needs and he thrives under her attention. As Evangeline tries to do her best for her students, she finds herself clashing with school administrators and must decide how to move forward if the school inspector demands she change her teaching style to the detriment of her students. Changing her style could help her efforts to be reunited with Lucy, but they could also alienate all of the students; refusing to change could cost her her job and force her to leave Smetley--and Dermot.

I absolutely loved this book. Sarah Eden is fantastic at writing snappy dialogue and incorporating humor, and I laughed so many times at Dermot's and Evangeline's interactions. Eden also does a great job at developing her characters, and I loved not only the main characters but also secondary characters. I really enjoyed the look at Victorian England and the working class--it was really interesting to learn about issues such as mill workers' housing and factory conditions in the context of the story. I also really enjoyed reading about the dialect differences and how the people of Smetley's language wasn't considered "proper" and how it was difficult for children to learn to read English that was spelled so differently from their own dialect. That was just a really interesting addition to the story--the type of addition that makes this book stand out from other historical romances. The romance is sweet, the characters are terrific, and I loved everything about the book. I've loved Sarah Eden's Regency books, but I'm excited about her venture into the Victorian Era and hope she'll be writing more books in this time period!

I read a copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.