In Pursuit of a Gentleman by Arlem Hawks

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 114
Series: Forever After Retelling #6
Genre: Historical Romance, Retelling, Regency
Published: Nov. 20, 2019
Rating: 2.5 stars

Synopsis:

He’s running from love. Can she outfox him?

Andrew Backus was never supposed to be an heir. But with the possibility of a fine inheritance looming, every Society matron is throwing her daughters at him in hopes to catch the careless dandy. Unfortunately for them all, Andrew will not be caught and dragged into the responsibilities of matrimony.

The youngest of nine children, Isabella Todd longs for a match that would finally make her parents and Society take notice of her. When she crosses paths with Mr. Backus, she realizes a marriage to him could give her the desired recognition and she hatches a plot to snare the heir before he suspects.

Acting the part of friend, Isabella unintentionally falls for the fun-loving Andrew rather than his expected fortune. When he uncovers her plot just before Christmas, Andrew must decide if he can believe the truth of her love before her parents call her to London for their own schemes.

Review:

Well, I wasn’t much for this one. I didn’t really like Isabella. I kind of feel like she took advantage of Andrew. She started being like all the other ladies. And for what, so her parents would notice her. Ick.

The Importance of Getting Revenge by Amanda Abram

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 322
Standalone
Genre: High School, Romance
Published: May 20, 2017
Rating: 3.5 stars

Synopsis:

17-year-old Lexi Turner has just been dumped by her boyfriend of three years—on the day she was going to, well, “do it” with him. And to make matters worse, he dumped her for a life-force-sucking demon!

Devastated by this turn of events, she decides there is only one way to deal with the situation: get revenge!

Enter Jase Holloway—Lexi’s former childhood friend and adversary to her ex. The plan is simple: somehow talk Jase into pretending to be her boyfriend to make her ex-boyfriend jealous, make him regret dumping her and make him come crawling back to her on his hands and knees, begging for forgiveness…

With Jase on board, Lexi is confident she will get the revenge she deserves. But nothing’s ever that simple, and Lexi soon finds out firsthand that sometimes what you want is not always what you get—and sometimes what you get is what you wanted all along.

Review:

I was pretty sure my ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend was a life-force-sucking demon.

I found this quite funny. Lexi and her friends had me laughing. Jase and Lexi especially.

I made a mental note to myself right then that the next time I got a fake boyfriend, I would make sure it wasn’t someone I wanted to strangle.

Lexi gets dumped by her boyfriend of three years for a girl who just moved to town. Being heartbroken her best friend decided she needed a makeover to get revenge. Then the idea sprouts in Lexi’s mind to fake date her friend’s brother who her ex hates.

We all know how this goes. This journey though was hilarious and entertaining. I say I’ll have to check out the author’s other works. But this was perfect read for me before I start another historical fairy-tale retelling.

Maiden in the Tower by Heidi Kimball

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 92
Series: Forever After Retelling #5
Genre: Historical Romance, Retelling
Published: April 8, 2019
Rating: 3 stars

Synopsis:

He’s the first man she’s ever met. She’s the exact opposite of the woman he’s supposed to marry.

Lisette Hunt has been hidden away her entire life, with nothing but a large window up in the cottage turret to give her a glimpse of the outside world. Until Gerry Worthington stumbles into her garden in search of his runaway dog. 

As a second son, Gerry has never seen the need to take life too seriously. Less than pleased with his frivolity, his mother orders him to marry a woman of means and banishes him to his family’s small, rundown estate. Unfortunately, innocent and penniless Lisette is the very opposite of what he needs.

But Gerry cannot resist the mystery surrounding Lisette, and soon he can no longer resist Lisette and her endearing peculiarity. As Gerry slowly opens Lisette’s eyes to a larger world, she begins to open her heart to him. However, when Gerry uncovers the truth about who Lisette really is, it may cost them a chance at happiness together.

Review:

Gerry comes across a cottage on his land and meets a mysterious woman. Lisette has only known the cottage and Dorthea all her life. Of course, there is their benefactress Lady Garrick who said if Lisette ever left she would leave them penniless. Gerry is trying to figure out who Lisette’s benefactress is and why she didn’t want Lisette to leave.

This is a quick read. I started to get a little bored towards the end, but I think that has more to do with the fact I’m starting to get burnt out of my historical romance mood.

A Beautiful Love by Megan Walker

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 116
Series: Forever After Retelling #4
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency, Retelling
Published: March 20, 2019
Rating: 3.5 stars

Synopsis:

Preston Blake had it all—wealth, a picturesque estate, and a growing affection with his childhood best friend Caroline Avery—until an unfortunate accident leaves him badly scarred in more ways than one. Isolated by the cruel eyes of society, Preston’s only wish is to find where he now belongs.

Caroline Avery is recently out in society, and thanks to Preston Blake’s broken promises, finds herself being chased by a determined earl instead of courted by her best friend. When, after a year’s absence, Preston finally accepts an invitation to visit her family’s estate, Caroline is determined to feign indifference to his company.

But being back together proves more challenging than either friend conceived. Caroline longs to return to the past, but Preston cannot let go of his fears. How could they possibly have a future together?

Review:

I don’t think I have read an Ugly Duckling retelling before. I thought this was done beautifully. While we don’t get a complete transformation at the end it is beautiful. It almost has a Beauty and the Beast hint I feel like. Because it was more about the heart and not the outward appearance.

This was also almost a second chance. The couple wasn’t officially together before Preston’s accident, but he is also trying to figure out if he is right for Caroline. Either way, they were cute together.

The Steadfast Heart by Arlem Hawks

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 128
Series: Forever After Retelling #3
Genre: Historical Romance, Retelling
Published: Feb. 27, 2019
Rating: 3 stars

Synopsis:

A broken sailor looking for a purpose, a jilted lady longing for the past, and a chance at happiness neither expected.

After losing his foot in battle, Lieutenant Robert Brenton can’t find his place in the navy or society, where he fears he is seen only as a cripple. He retires to his small estate to find peace, not anticipating the distraction awaiting him.

Holly Addison has the world at her feet, until her prized beau cancels their engagement and ruins her reputation. Banished to Cornwall, she finds herself a guest in Robert’s run-down manor by the sea. She writes repeatedly to her former love, trying to persuade him to take her back to society. But Robert’s charm and simple life make her consider what she really wants—a life of excess, or a life of meaning.

As time runs out on their chance to be together, both are forced to examine their hearts and uncover a strength neither knew they had.

Review:

At first, I didn’t think I was going to like Holly. She seemed to be the typical spoiled debutant at the height of Society. When the man she is engaged to breaks off the engagement and ruins her reputation, she is sent to Cornwall.

I didn’t think there for a long time I would like Holly but I did end up liking her. The story was good. I kind of hoped for a little bit more in the end when it came to Mr. Pelhem and what happens to him. He was a drat scoundrel for sure. But a good quick read.

The Captain and Miss Winter by Sally Britton

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 102
Series: Forever After Retelling #2
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency, Retelling
Published: Feb. 5th, 2019
Rating: 3 stars

Synopsis:

A captain seeking to repair the past and the daughter of a fallen gentleman, searching for a treasure that will change their lives forever.

The end of the Napoleonic wars comes as a relief to Caspar Graysmark, but before he can settle into the comfortable life of an English lord he has a duty to the people of France. A treasure lies hidden in the heart of the forest, stolen gold that would save the lives of many who lost everything during the war. In his quest, Caspar stumbles across a hidden cottage in the woods, and a different sort of treasure altogether.

Scarlett, living with her sister and grandmother, belongs nowhere. Her father’s mistakes led to their exile from England and their banishment into the forest. The cold winter months have taken their toll on Scarlett’s spirits and her grandmother’s health. The Englishman who arrives at Scarlett’s door, looking more like a bear than a captain of the British army, reminds her of all she lost to the war.

With winter drawing to a close, Caspar must find the missing gold, but his quest to right the wrongs of war has changed. Can Scarlett let him rescue her, too?

Review:

Little did I know when I started this series that all the books have different authors. I just grabbed the first one and then went down the line without really paying attention.

Out in the middle of the woods, Casper comes across a cottage where Scarlett is staying with her grandmother and sister. Casper is in search of some gold that he wants to return to the people. Scarlett’s father left them in a bad situation.

Again, another cute novella. Short and to the point. Had some action and a bit of treasure hunting. I do like the MCs together.

Beauty and the Baron by Joanna Barker

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 121
Series: Forever After Retellings #1
Genre: Retelling, Regency, Historical Romance
Published: Jan. 15, 2019
Rating: 3 stars

Synopsis:

A penniless maid determined to save her father, a broken baron bent on isolation, and the undeniable draw between them that will lead to happiness—or disaster. 

Rose Sinclair has run out of options. With her father in prison and their bookshop sold to pay his debts, she has no choice but to turn to Henry Covington, the Baron Norcliffe. But the baron has more than earned his harsh reputation, and Rose must face his wrath in order to save her father—and herself.

Since the deaths of his parents, Henry Covington has isolated himself from society, ensuring the solitude of his estate with his deliberate callousness. However, when the beautiful Miss Sinclair appears on his doorstep, begging for a chance to repay her father’s debt to him, a moment of weakness finds him offering her a position—as a maid in his own house.

They both soon learn that first impressions are not to be believed. Henry is surprised—and intrigued—by Rose’s optimistic charm, while Rose slowly uncovers Henry’s true self, his compassion concealed behind the pain of loss and betrayal. But when a shadow from Henry’s past returns, their newfound hope is tested. They must decide for themselves who to trust—and what they will risk for their happily ever after.  

Review:

The beast is not in physical form but in personality. Henry has shut people out of his life since the passing of his parents. Rose goes to Henry asking for a position to pay off the debt her father has with him. He allows her to become a maid.

This is a quick and cute read. I loved it. Wish it was a bit longer but it’s meant for a quick read. While it has romance it also has a tiny bit of drama from Henry’s past. I loved it and will move on to the next book.

A Stolen Heart by Clarissa Kae

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 226
Series: Victorian Retelling #3 Finale
Genre: Historical, Romance, Retelling, Robin Hood
Published: Jan 29, 2022
Rating: 2.5 stars

Synopsis:

Nikolas Whitworth, the Earl of Rochelle, is handsome, charming—and a traitor. He can outwit and outcon any Englishman, or Englishwoman for that matter. When his debts are called in, a savior appears, the criminal mastermind known only as the Tailor. Nikolas is bought and sold, his future no longer his.

Abandoned as a baby because of her heart condition, Rosalyn Devereaux trusts no one. She secretly dresses as a stableboy to inspect the horses and place bets. Without fail, her chosen horse wins.

When the Tailor orders Nikolas to kidnap the mysterious stableboy, he discovers the beguiling Rosalyn. He is captivated and utterly smitten, but Rosalyn refuses to be a pawn in the Tailor’s schemes.

Nikolas has a plan to escape, but can Rosalyn trust her future—and possibly her heart—to a conman?

Review:

Spoilers if not read the previous two books.

Our author sure loves her MCs with disabilities/scars. Rosalyn has a heart condition. Nikolas was shot at the end of the second book. Nikolas also, at the end of the second book revealed that he has been in love before with a woman named Rosalyn. This is a second chance story.

I wasn’t as into this book as I was in the previous two. The MCs weren’t together as much as the others. I wanted to see more romance blossom but it seemed as if the heroine wanted to stay away as much as she could while at the same time being near the hero.

The tailor aspect was lackluster when it should have been more intriguing than in the previous books. I just don’t necessarily know how I feel about this book. When the heroine is given an opportunity to help the crown and instead of looking at it as getting close to someone who can help out the poor she snubs it. Nikolas snubs the rich but he tends to forget that his father was raised in a position making Nikolas part of the rich. Whether he likes it or even sees it, he is part of that society. Instead of making a difference, he gambled his money away.

Another reason I don’t think I liked this one as much is due to me not liking either of the MCs. I can understand Rosalyn and her deals, but I don’t understand Nikolas who in previous books seems to be a rich arrogant person. Everything you think of Nikolas in previous books seems to go against what he thinks in this book. Sometimes it’s also hard to determine what is a flashback and what is present. Or at least it was for me.

This was going to be a three-star but the ending ruined the book for me. I think everything was wrapped up fast. I just wasn’t feeling this book.

Cinders Like Glass by Clarissa Kae

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 228
Series: Victorian Retelling #2
Genre: Historical, Romance, Mystery
Published: August 15, 2021
Rating: 4 STARS

Synopsis:

Grieving her father’s sudden death, Lady Ada Whitworth’s childhood stutter resurfaces. She seeks solace in her charcoal sketches secretly published in London’s Thames & Times newspaper. Her brother’s sharp tongue and quick temper shame Lady Ada into complete silence but not before she overhears his traitorous plot to kill the queen at the upcoming International Ball.

Mute and heartbroken, Lady Ada’s private pain is mistaken for arrogance, earning the ire of society.The Duke of Girard is tasked with sniffing out the elusive French spy called Tailor while an anonymous artist pokes fun at the duke’s failed pursuit, taunting him every step of the way. With the upcoming International Ball just weeks away, the Duke will stop at nothing to bring stability back to his beloved Britain-including finding the artist behind the sketches.

When Lady Ada’s accused brother disappears, she becomes the target of the Duke’s wrath, assuming her silence is from guilt, not grief. To loosen her tongue, the Duke demands Lady Ada be interrogated at his estate, a home hidden in the wild Welsh countryside. She sweeps the chimney, launders her clothes and helps the cook-she will do anything but speak to the Duke.

Lady Ada’s quiet service softens the Duke, his mind often turning to thoughts of her. But can he earn Lady Ada’s trust in time to save the queen?

Review:

If you have not read the first book, I highly suggest that you do. While the MCs are different it still follows the mystery line from the first book. Lord Rochelle also is a big play in this book.

I love the stutter aspect with Lady Ada. The mystery thickens on who the Tailor is and what he wants. A few more nobles are introduced and you don’t know who to trust after the ending.

I hope we get to see more of the ton in the next book. I want to see more of court since I have a thing for court drama. I’m glad that the author has done her research on not only the technology that was available at the time but also the dress. While on Goodreads main tag page, this is listed regency, it’s actually not. The regency era of Britain is 1811-1820. This is set after the regency era so I don’t know why on Goodreads it’s listed as a regency. This is fully victorian and you can tell by what the characters are wearing to the technology. This is another reason why I love that the author did her research. If you are extremely knowledgeable about the era, you don’t need the date to tell you nor do you need the series title to tell you.

I wonder if the next book is the final or if there is more to come. But it is Nikolas’s book and I don’t know quite how I feel about Nikolas.

A Dark Beauty by Clarissa Kae

My edition: Kindle Unlimited
Pages: 216
Series: Victorian Retelling #1
Genre: Historical, Victorian, Romance, Fairy-tale retelling
Published: March 7, 2021
Rating: 4 stars

Synopsis:

A Victorian Twist on Beauty And The Beast

Bold and brilliant, Georgiana has a gift for fixing machines—from clocks to carriages—while her father has a penchant for finding trouble. In an accidental fire, Georgiana and her father scar the once handsome face of Lord Pichon, cousin to the queen.

Rumors of Georgiana’s gift raise her family’s status. Her incomparable beauty captures the eye of many gentlemen and the wrath of Lord Pichon. Abandoned by his peers and alone in his cold castle, Lord Pichon is determined to enact revenge.

When Georgiana’s father makes a terrible mistake, she sacrifices herself to pay his debt—as a lowly maid in Lord Pichon’s castle.

Her wit and warmth begin to thaw Lord Pichon’s estate, making him question his version of the past. Will her kindness break the beastly lord or will he hold her family hostage forever?

Review:

I liked this more than I thought I would. I had two dull books before this (one DNF and a one-star) so my hopes weren’t entirely high. But I soldiered on to find out that I actually really like this.

Both MCs, Dominic and Georgiana, are scarred. They were harmed in a fire that took the life of Georgiana’s sister. In this retelling though, the father is so not worth the daughter’s sacrifice. He’s non-existent in her life. He so does not deserve her loyalty.

I love the mystery aspect of this as well. This also goes into the next book which is a Cinderella retelling who has a heroine that has a stutter. I’m looking forward to that.