Category: Barb’s Reviews

A Stroke of Malice by Anna Lee Huber

On By BarbaraIn Barb's Reviews, Georgian Era (1714-1837), Historical MysteryLeave a comment

A Touch of MaliceBarbara’s Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Series: Lady Darby Mystery #8
Publication Date: 4/7/20
Number of Pages: 384

With each new entry in the Lady Darby series, I think it just can’t get any better – but then, it does. This author never fails to intrigue and delight and she has quickly become one of my favorite historical mystery authors. While it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, I would suggest reading at least the first book or two in the series to really understand Kiera’s history.

After their harrowing and intense recent visit to London, Kiera (Lady Darby) and Gage are attending a Twelfth-Night celebration in Scotland at Sunlaws Castle, the estate of the Duke and Duchess of Bowmont. It is their intent to celebrate the holiday and for Kiera to finish the painting she had already begun for the duchess before traveling on to Edinburgh for the birth of their child.

During the Twelfth-night celebration, the Lord of Misrule decided to take everyone on a ghost tour where, of course, a body was discovered. Who was it? There were no identifying features, no personal possessions, and nobody was missing from the area. Then, how did he even get there? Could it be Lady Eleanor’s husband, the Earl of Helmswick? He is supposed to be in Paris, but he’s sent no communications to anyone since he’s been gone. Except, that isn’t unusual for the Earl, so surely it isn’t him. But, if not him, then who?

What an exciting rollercoaster ride of a tale. It is hard to tell who is an enemy and who is a friend or who is a victim. You will be scratching your head from beginning to end and the wrap-up will surprise you. The only constant is Kiera and Gage’s love and respect for each other.

I read this book in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down. Now, it is hours after I read the last page and it is still on my mind. So, of course, I cannot wait for the next book which is set in cholera ridden Edinburg. Will we finally get to meet the new baby?

I hope you will love this book as much as I did – shux – I’m sure you will love it as much as I did because it is an exceptional read.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Lord Holt Takes A Bride by Vivienne Lorret

On By BarbaraIn Barb's Reviews, Regency Era (1811-1820)2 Comments

Lord Holt Tales A BrideBarbara’s Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Series: Mating Habits of Scoundrels #1
Publication Date: 3/31/20
Number of Pages: 384

This story was filled with excitement, romance, humor and delightful characters who had a great tale to tell. The main characters, Winnifred (Win) and Asher are two souls who are really very similar but see themselves as worlds apart. It was so much fun to see them find their way to a delightful, well-deserved HEA.

Viscount Asher Holt is the only son and heir of the Marquess Shettlemane. Well, heir is certainly a misnomer because there is nothing to inherit – only bone-crushing debt. His father is such a narcissist that he was out partying while his wife lay dying. He has run up debts in Asher’s name – even sending dangerous money collectors after him. Somehow, Asher has turned out to be an honorable, caring man, but the ton sees him as a scoundrel because of the tales his father tells. Finally, Asher thinks he has found a way out – a way to escape his father and make his own fortune. However, he might have to truly act the scoundrel to make it come true.

Winnifred Humphries is plump, freckled, has unruly red-gold hair, and a mother who never lets her forget any of those shortcomings. Her father is a domineering, distant man who has announced that Winnifred will be marrying Mr. Woodbine, an odious man who is the heir presumptive to a duke. Mr. Woodbine is disapproving, condescending, and doesn’t like Winnifred in the least. What he does like is her dowry. When Winnifred’s friends (Jane Pickering, Elodie Parrish, and Prudence Thorogood) hatch a plan for her to run away from the wedding, Winnifred sadly declines. However, on her wedding day, whenever a package gets misdelivered to her – a gift from her betrothed to his long-time mistress along with a love note – Winnifred finally sees what her life will be like and changes her mind.

Winnifred (Win as Asher calls her) flees the church and dashes into the waiting carriage that she thinks belongs to her friend Jane. The man inside should be Jane’s cousin and he’ll take her to safety. Ah, the best-laid plans … Having overheard the ladies plotting, Asher is the one in the carriage – and the adventure begins.

“Believe me, my betrothed is even worse once you get to know him. Which is why I am here in this carriage instead of at the church.”

Win and Asher’s journey to safety is an exciting one with carriage chases, villains aplenty, bittersweet moments, and each getting to know themselves and the other. The attraction is there, but the trust needs lots of work.

“And how are you looking at me?” she asked, breathless.
“With imprudent carnal hunger.”

I absolutely adored both Asher and Win and I’m sure you will as well. Their growth into love was a wonderful thing to see and I really enjoyed their journey into their HEA.

“…with all the rain they’d encounter something was bound to take deep root and blossom, and for them it was love”

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.