Earl of Spades by Emily Windsor

The Earl of SpadesThe Earl of Spades by Emily Windsor

Tracy’s Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Series: A Lady to Suit #3

Release Date: July 9, 2026

Seven years ago, Verity Seymour and Miles Firth, the second son of the Earl of Stonewold, fell in love and made plans to live happily ever after while travelling the world and studying botany. Miles goes home to obtain his father’s blessing to marry, but when he returns weeks later, Verity, for no apparent reason, turns her back on Miles and tells him she is to marry another man and wants no further contact with him. Heartbroken, Miles joins the army and leaves the country to fight Napoleon.

Now fate has brought them back together, but Miles is no longer the second son of an earl, he is the earl. And Verity is no longer studying botany, now she lives with her aunt, and her cousin and supports herself painting portraits of cats for wealthy clients. When she sees Miles again, she knows that she never stopped loving him, but she has secrets and must keep him at an arm’s length to keep her heart from shattering once more. Miles has his own problems, as it seems someone is trying to kill him and despite his vow to forget Verity, it is clear that his heart isn’t listening! Can these two overcome the secrets and pain that has kept them apart or are they destine to be star-crossed lovers?

This was another amazing story by Emily Windsor! As always, she writes wonderful characters with a lot of emotion, a bit of levity, a dash of steam and a hard-won HEA. This book is no different, Verity and Miles are perfect for each other and deserve to be together, but they are both stubborn and won’t make their road to HEA easy, but it will certainly be eventful! I really enjoyed this installment of the series and am looking forward to the next book featuring the mysterious “Prince”. This book is perfect for fans of Second Chances, First Love that never dies, Secrets or cats – I would happily recommend this book to you! It is the third book in a series but can easily be read as a standalone title with no backstory issues.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *

 

A Bitter Cut by Anna Lee Huber

A Bitter Cut (Lady Darby Mystery, #14)

Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Lady Darby #14
Publication Date: 6/23/26
Period: Georgian – 1833
Number of Pages: 384

This author has delivered yet another outstanding historical mystery. When you devour a 384-page book in a single sitting, you know you’ve found something special! The characters are engaging—even the ones you’re meant to dislike—and the mystery keeps you guessing right up to the final reveal.

Kiera’s brother, Trevor, has been courting the daughter of a prosperous manufacturer, and the best part is that the affection is mutual. Hoping to spend more time getting to know the family, Kiera and Gage, along with Lord Gage, invite them to a house party that also includes several of Lord Gage’s political associates.

From the moment the Birnams arrive, Kiera and Gage realize it is going to be a very long week. Mr. Birnam is an utterly despicable man, Mrs. Birnam is disagreeable and outspoken, and their son, Jemmy, is sullen and uncooperative. The only pleasant members of the family are Matilda, Trevor’s beloved, and Miss Portia Whitlock, Mr. Birnam’s capable secretary.

Kiera and Gage certainly have their hands full this time around. Between managing the unpleasant Birnams, entertaining Lord Gage’s political cronies, keeping the house party running smoothly, and trying to support Trevor’s romance, they have precious little time to devote to a murder investigation. Unfortunately, the crime must be solved before the guests begin departing.

This is an excellent addition to the series, featuring a well-crafted mystery, a lovely countryside setting, and a varied cast of memorable characters. The story is beautifully paced and superbly executed. Bravo to the author!

I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.

Happy Reading!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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