Sweet Historical Romance
924849
I LOVED this story! Very sweet story (ha! It's about a baker!) about Richard Moore, the Earl of Raleigh, and Miss Jane Bunting, the proprietress of a bake shop. They meet when Richard mistakenly tackles Jane's cousin Emerson, who is recently back from the navy, inside Jane's shop. Richard thought that Emerson was attacking Jane, not surprising her with his return from the sea. Jane calls the watch on Richard and then is dismayed that Richard pulls the "I am a Lord" card and is let go. After some fun animosity between the two of them, Jane comes to realize that maybe Richard really was just trying to help her, and Richard realizes that, in the scuffle, he did really cause a lot of damage to her shop. Thus begins a very cute back-and-forth "courtship" between Jane and Richard, always with both keeping in mind that Richard is heir to a Marquis and Jane is "just" a commoner. There are some very touching scenes and some very funny scenes. One of my favorites is between Richard and his friend Benedict as they are boxing - they are constantly teasing each other like the old friends that they are. Those expecting some really "hot" scenes - well, there aren't any, although the desire and wanting are very palpable and intense between Jane and Richard (and there are some great kissing scenes!).

What I really like about Erin Knightley's books is that the Moore family (Richard's) is a REAL family. There is the one brother - Richard - his four meddling sisters, and his mother and father - the Marchioness and Marquis of Granville. All the members of the family act like a real family and love and tease and get angry at each other, just like any other family. I have found that to be really missing from most of the Regency books I have read in the past.
1654243
It's been awhile since I have read a historical romance and this sure was a sweet one to break the fast. While I didn't totally buy into August's ways of treating Maeve, I did think their love was true and I enjoyed reading their story. Ups and downs, misunderstangs and betrayals, passion and heartbreak; this book had it all. I would recommend this one to anybody looking for an escape from the everyday contemporary. Step back in time with August and Maeve.
3637998
I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet romance. The historical Japanese setting, as Christianity was spreading underground, was fresh and interesting. I loved the details about the samurai lifestyle and especially regarding the crafting of katana swords- it was accurate & thorough enough to add much interest, complexity to characters and authenticity to the setting, but never bogged down the story. Both of the love interests had family obligations and this too, felt real to me. There were elements of suspense as well- unknown factions are over-reaching the ruler's edicts and are acting to persecute Christian sects. This endangers our heroine, Sen. She struggles between her faith, her obligations to her parents, her duties at the castle, and her growing attraction to Nobuhiro.

The romance between Sen and Nobuhio develops slowly and sweetly. And at times, each misread the other's signals. Both are admirable  characters and I was routing for them to get together at the end.

The author obviously has done a lot of historical research and has a passion for the subject!
The only criticism that I have is that all the character names (the samurai have both a formal and nickname) were a tad over-whelming at first... however, the author does provide a reference at the beginning.

Although this story is complete, there is a lead in for a sequel. (Which the author implies will focus on the adventures of one of Nobuhiro's brothers, a samurai). You will enjoy if you are looking for a sweet romance with Christian themes, in an historical backdrop of 16th century Japan.
1401966
Remembered by Tamera Alexander is the third book in the Fountain Creek Chronicles, but reading the previous two books isn't necessary to enjoy this romance. VeroniqueGirard and Jack Brennan have both been devastated by death. Veronique travels to Willow Springs to fulfill her mother's final request to find herlonglost father who left Paris to find the family fortune as a miner in Colorado. Jack has given up a life as a wagon driver to become a freighter bringing supplies up the Rocky Mountains to the small isolated mining towns. He becomes her escort and help as she seeks her father in each town, but as they spend time together they come to discover feelings both thought gone. Alexander writes a sweet, safe historical romance. Jack is masculine but gentle man of faith. Veronique is a talented and beautiful if a bit spoiled and naive woman of faith.  Alexander doesn't follow cliches by making them initially hate each other; the relationship grows naturally. There are a few messages of faith including not wasting gifts from God, being content with what you have, and depending upon a Heavenly, not earthly, father. It was an enjoyable read, if a bit bland. The plot is fairly straightforward and may not compel interest, and references to previous books may leave readers feeling out of the loop.
2325767
This is the first book that I have read by Brisbin and I found it to be a very enjoyable read. Usually historical romances can become quite predictable and thats okay because I still love them, but it was nice that this one had a few changes from the normal thrown in here and there.

In this story we meet the handsome highlander Laird Athdar, who has made the point of his life to be the leader of his people. Because of one in the past he has promised to never marry again and makes his focus on his people and nothing more.
Through the beginning of the story we find that Athdar and the lady that is going to teach him to love again have paths that have crossed but they are not hopelessly in love from page one. The author takes some time to let them develop and get to know each other before they fall in love and get married.

Once they are married they must learn to live together and get used to married life. While they are busy doing that, Athdar must face some events in his past that he has forgotten but that are impacting his future. Together they must put together the pieces and rely on their love to see them through the obstacles.

All in all I believe that author did a great job with this story. The characters are warm, likable and well developed. The historical setting and world was done well which led to an enjoyable afternoon read. I will read this author again in the future and believe that most fans of historical romance would enjoy this tale.

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review which has been stated above.
745640
"Sawyer's Rose" by Kim Turner is a very sweet, western historical romance.  I really enjoyed both the hero Sawyer and the heroine Rose.  Rose is on the run from New York to the west and believes she will be a mail order bride.  She has one problem though, she is already married, but awaiting an annulment.  Seems the man she married only wanted her father's money and was looking to get rid of her after he controlled her money.
Sawyer did not order Rose, but found out his mother did, he is the Sheriff of Cheyenne and doesn't have time for a wife.  Especially no time for a wife as pretty and sweet as Rose.
I did enjoy the story, but there is a lot of back and forth in the book between Sawyer and Rose.  It took a long time for them to get together, Sawyer refused to even admit his attraction until almost half way through the book.  There was a lot of action that sometimes took away from the story.  Numerous gun fights where all the bad guys were dead except Sawyer and his brother.  The writing and ideas of the characters seemed a little too modern, Rose moved into town and Sawyer pretty much stayed with her every night after they professed their love.
There was chemistry between these two, but the book was sweeter rather than passionate.  Good story though, one I would recommend if you like a sweeter less steamy romance.

I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
469953
3 out of 5 stars. Well written, even if I haven't read the rest of the series I still understood the plot perfectly. What Laura and Isaiah have is a sweet romance, which is a good change-of-pace to read.

Review By: From Me to You ... Book Reviews
-- read more of this review on my blog: frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com --
2764040
Tristan and Valentine

A vicar's orphaned and destitute daughter meets a world weary hardened rake in the abandoned folly of the ramshackle estate of a dissolute lord and lady in the midst of a debauched gathering and guess what?  A sweet romance ensues.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Both protagonists shared varying degrees of self doubt throughout this tale. Their vulnerability and willingness to bare their souls in spite of their innate low self esteem was heartening.

Tristan Sinclair is not what he seems on the surface. This brusque rake is a tender and caring soul. Misunderstandings and mistrust, from those who should have trusted him, hardened him at a young age.  As so many do, he decided to live down to their expectations.

Valentine March has experienced a life devoid of tenderness. The vicar who raised her as his own has never allowed her to forget her unworthiness. After his death, even the bit of stability and security she enjoyed was stripped away.

When she finds herself alone and weeping over the cruelty meted out to her at the hands of her employer's cruel daughter, she meets Tristan for the first time and pours out her heartbreaking story.

Over a short period and amidst a forced separation, their love is cemented and this reader beamed with delight.

Mimi Matthews is quickly becoming an autobuy author for me. Her sly winks to Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen were duly noted and delightful for their inclusion.

If you love a sweet romance devoid of excessive steam and imbued with the intoxicating warmth of the growth of first true love, this is the story for you. It certainly is for me.
1763103
Garrett intends to sell his property to a developer. Living in the past of what might have been, he fails to see the good things in his life until he meets Micara. She is trying to save the town and organizes meetings to convince others not to sell out. She can do nothing but pray that Garrett will see the error of his ways.

I enjoyed this sweet, Christian romance. The well-drawn characters dealt with authentic modern problems. It was a delight!
2286764
Yes, this is a sweet romance.  A good one with fun predicaments.  Good characters.  And good chemistry that  is clean!
525137
Wonderful sweet and clean historical romance. This is the first book I read from Jenna Brandt and I totally loved it! The characters, Debbey and William are so loveable and admirable. I like the way they face the struggles the new life as Viscount and Viscountess of a great estate is throwing them. The mother in law is so arrrogant and cruel, but I like the way they both deal with her, always with respect and care. There is a Christian message beneath the story and I love that too. I totally recommend this book to anyone, 5 stars! I'm now looking forward to readind the previous book in the series. Even though this can be a standalone book, I would love to know more of the previous characters and their stories. I also liked the writing style of the author, it's very compelling.
I received an ARC copy from the author and this is my honest unbiased review
4471332
This was a very sweet book. Set in Nebraska in 1882, the characters were endearing and likable. At first I thought it was going to be extremely predictable, but it threw a few twists into the mix that kept it going for me as the book went on. It also had some good Biblical principles, which not all "Christian fiction" includes.

Miss Amsel has a few things from her past keeping her from courting the eligible bachelors in town. She's not interested and they are very persistent. Although she keeps turning them down, she is having a hard time resisting Mr. Joel Townsend. Miss Amsel is very opinionated, but also very proper. I appreciated that aspect of her personality. She still acted like I thought a lady from the time period would act, although she had some "newfangled" ideas.

Joel Townsend is a very kind person - kind of shy. I really liked him. He knows he needs to marry someone to be a ma to his two nephews - but he doesn't want to marry someone just for that reason alone. He places his trust in God to meet his needs - he's just surprised where God leads him!

There are lots of secondary characters in this book that add a lot of personality: the children in the schoolhouse, Mrs. Kinsley - Miss Amsel's landlady, Missy - her sister, and a variety of town folk.

Overall, I thought this was a very enjoyable read and I think anyone who likes Christian historical fiction would find a good read in this book.

This book was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. Any and all opinions expressed are purely my own.
2559211
4 1/2 stars. The plot and the characters were very interesting, but the best part of the story was the romance. Gillian and especially Fingal were great characters. They were put into a marriage that they didn't want but they tried to do the right thing for the people in the clan. Their relationship developed slowly but it was very sweet. There was plenty of passion between them, but only enough detail to make things real. The intimacy was not overdone like it is in some books. The historical setting was well written, too. I plan on reading more by this author!
1604204
I enjoyed this sweet historical romance. Sean Flood is a caring, compassionate hero who falls head-over-heels for the down on her luck widow Ona McNair. He wants to help them, but has trouble convincing her to accept his help. He's determined, because he wants them all to have a wonderful Christmas. I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
1669331
This story is about an impoverished young woman who has been orphaned and left to the guardianship and care of a Marquess, a friend of her father. Upon arriving on his doorsteps, she finds that he has died, and she has been left in the care of his nephew, the new Marquess.

Upon being informed that the previous Marquess has left a will stating that she and the nephew must marry, in order for him to obtain his inheritance, she reluctantly agrees.

The Reluctant Marquess follows the results of this quick decision and is fun to read. She is new to London society and has much to learn. He isn't much help at the beginning. There are, of course, many misunderstandings, strong feelings, and trouble. There are also many sweet portions to the story.

The author's vivid way with words clearly shows a London as it really was in those days with chamber pots emptied out of windows, beggars on almost every corner and prostitutes giving men the eye. Ms. Andersen really put us right in the story with her description of the setting and the people.

The hero has many personal problems to resolve and the heroine has to learn how to understand him. They both have very strong personalities and there are many ups and downs in the relationship. In the beginning there are more downs than ups. They have to learn to give and take before they can really know each other and solve the problems in their relationship before there can possibly be a HEA. This was a different sort of historical romance that I enjoyed reading.
1228919
This is the first book by Kristen Iten I have read and I'm glad I found this author. The storyline is a sweet yet exciting western historical romance, Romance with a capital R, it's sweet and clean with excellently written characters and a storyline which I found to be totally enjoyable. I liked the main characters and I really wanted them to have a future together even if at times that looked like it was going to be impossible.

I read an ARC of this book and this review is written voluntarily.
3467104
This is a nice, light, historical romance with a strong Beauty and the Beast vibe. Henrietta is a sweet young woman who despite being beautiful is hampered with a stutter and a tendency towards clumsiness when her nerves get the better of her. All her life she has tended to favor the company of plants over people, and since her father also suffered from a stutter her memories of him are very important to her. Which is why she is willing to do all she can to marry the Black Earl and become mistress of her family home.

Which is a good enough way to start any tale, but I have to admit I was left slightly confused. Henriettas clear love for Plumburn (a name which I have an irrational hatred for. Its just what kind of name is that? There should at least have been some plum trees in the book to explain it) and her grief over her father made me think hed only just died. Except Simon is known as the Black Earl already. This is because hes actually been the earl for five years, while Henrietta and her family have lived elsewhere for all that time. And they weren't even allowed to take any personal effects from the house? Her father was apparently quite a bit older than her mother, so surely he had a will? In which case his personal bequests were very stingy.

So, yes, I was a little confused at first because Henrietta is so attached to a place she hasn't even seen for five years. However, this book isn't one for dwelling on such details. Instead its a straightforward tale of a scarred man plagued by dangerous gossip and the beautiful woman he falls for. Of course Henrietta looks just like all the women who have betrayed Simon in his life, so he must stay away from her! Add in a handful of other marriageable misses, some mysterious illnesses, secret meetings in the herb garden and you end up with a sweet and enjoyable tale.

If you're looking for a quick romance with a historical setting and aren't too bothered with details regarding historical accuracy or character histories, then theres plenty to enjoy here. The characters are nice enough to be interesting and theres a touch of mystery too to keep things ticking along. Overall its a pleasant escape, and I wouldnt mind reading more about Henriettas sisters.

(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)