Review: A Silence in Belgrave Square by Jennifer Ashley

A Silence in Belgrave Square by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Below Stairs Mysteries, Book 8
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Mystery 

ISBN: 9780593549933
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Audible
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

Kat Holloway knows that her beau and confidante Daniel McAdam has a talent for dangerous work as a Scotland Yard agent. At long last though, Daniel’s coldhearted boss has promised that after a final mission, his debt will be repaid, and he’ll finally be free. However, Daniel must risk his life one last time, masquerading as a secretary to an elderly viscount who could be the mastermind behind the recent plots against the Queen and her government.

Using her contacts throughout London, Kat discovers several of her friends and colleagues have been victims of vicious blackmail. They’ll do anything to protect their scandalous secrets, even conform to the blackmailer’s political agenda. If Kat and Daniel wish to save each other and the Crown, they must prove the blackmailer’s identity and evade those who will stop at nothing to eliminate them.

Amateur sleuth and professional cook Kat Holloway is back at it in A Silence in Belgrave Square. Between highborn women being blackmailed and her beau, Daniel McAdam, being sent on a life-threatening undercover mission, it’s all Kat can do to keep her wits about her and get the tea cakes out on time.

Jennifer Ashley brings to the forefront another Fenian plot that will endanger many. Daniel’s boss, who’d sooner seen the man dead than free of service, has sent him undercover in a way that prevents Kat from contacting him. Kat isn’t one to sit on the sidelines, so the ever-expanding network of her and Daniel’s contacts is activated. What I liked best about A Silence in Belgrave Square is all the connections Kat has formed. Her friendship with Hannah, a con artist she goes way back with, is engaging and interesting to see play out on the page. Said friendship gives the story a bit of extra energy it needs.

There are two different mysteries at the heart of the book and Kat is making the most of her resources to solve both. I liked watching her put the pieces together, knowing what questions to ask and who can help her get the information. The mysteries aren’t as compelling as watching Kat solve them, but that didn’t overly bother me because I look to the Below Stairs Mysteries more for the relationships than the puzzle of the day. And speaking of relationships, longtime fans of the series will be excited to see things finally progress somewhat for Daniel and Kat, though what happens I’ll leave readers to learn on their own. A Silence in Belgrave Square is an entertaining read and as always, I enjoy spending time with Kat and company and I’m sure fans of the series will feel the same.



FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: Speculations in Sin by Jennifer Ashley

Speculations in Sin by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Below Stairs Mysteries, Book 7
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Mystery 

ISBN: 9780593549919
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Audible
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

Kat Holloway is distressed to learn that Samuel Millburn, husband of the woman who looks after her daughter, has been accused of embezzling funds from the bank where he works as a clerk. The accusation is absurd, and Samuel’s wife fears that her husband will not only lose his post but be imprisoned. Kat vows to uncover the truth.

When she discovers the bank is involved in shockingly murky business dealings, Kat realizes she’s treading in dangerous waters. She turns to her confidante and handsome suitor, Daniel McAdam, for help. To exonerate Samuel, Kat and Daniel may have to expose the unseemly financial dealings of prominent aristocrats and government officials, and even those working to bring down the royal family. Kat will risk everything to protect the man who has sacrificed so much for her daughter, even if it means endangering herself and the friends she has come to love.

Cook Kat Holloway is back sleuthing again when her best friend’s husband is accused of embezzlement. Speculations in Sin takes Kat into the unfamiliar world of finance, a place where reputation is worth its weight in gold and where a man like Sam Millburn can be tossed to the wolves for an institution to save face. Sam is not only Kat’s friend – he and his wife opened their home to Kat’s daughter, so this case is deeply personal.

Kat is walking a tightrope as ever, balancing her position and duties with amateur sleuthing, her relationship with her daughter, and her slowly developing romance with Daniel McAdam. Daniel is by Kat’s side every step of the way, as are her friends. I loved watching Kat among the friends she has made, from Lady Cynthia to Tess and beyond. These connections are integral to the story and the worldbuilding. They are also what interested me the most about the story. As much as I enjoy Jennifer Ashley’s writing, I will say that the mystery didn’t grab my attention this time around. It wasn’t complex enough to carry the story and seemed to drag, taking the book down with it. The resolution, while somewhat satisfying, didn’t wow me like I had hoped. All in all, this was just an OK entry into the Below Stairs series. Any time spent with Kat and company is enjoyable, but Speculations in Sin had a lackluster mystery that didn’t live up to the previous installments.



FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: The Secret of Bow Lane by Jennifer Ashley

The Secret of Bow Lane by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Below Stairs Mysteries, Book 6
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Mystery 

ISBN: 9780440001799
Release Date: August 2, 2022
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Audible
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

A stranger who appears on Kat's doorstep turns out to be one Charlotte Bristow, legal wife of Joe Bristow, the man Kat once believed herself married to—who she thought died at sea twelve years ago. Kat is jolted by Charlotte’s claims that not only was Joe murdered, but he had amassed a small fortune before he died. Charlotte makes the cook an offer she cannot refuse—if Kat can discover the identity of Joe's murderer, Charlotte will give her a share of the fortune Joe left behind.

With the help of Daniel McAdam, her attractive and charismatic confidante, Kat plunges into her own past to investigate. When it becomes apparent that the case of Joe’s death goes far deeper than simple, opportunistic theft, Kat and Daniel's relationship is put to the test, and Kat herself comes under scrutiny as her connection to Joe is uncovered. She must race to catch the real killer before she loses her job and possibly her life.

Gifted cook and not-so-amateur sleuth Kat Holloway is back with a cold case that hits close to home in The Secret of Bow Lane. When Charlotte Bristow – the legal widow of the man Kat had once believed herself married to – shows up on her doorstep with a tale of murder and a lost fortune, Kat is taken aback…but also intrigued. With the help of her friends (and the man who is slowly becoming much more than a friend) Kat looks to the past for answers, and learns more than she bargained for. It’s a cold case, but because of how closely it’s tied to Kat’s past it’s a very interesting one. I enjoyed learning more about Kat’s history and to see her interact with those who knew her before she had become the woman she is today. Along the way, author Jennifer Ashley also doles out more information about Daniel McAdam, which I was equally excited by. Kat and Daniel have a very slow burn romance but as they open up to each other more and we learn more about their pasts, the two become closer and the love story moves forward.

The Secret of Bow Lane is the sixth novel in the Below Stairs series and to fully enjoy it you should at least be familiar with the cast of characters before diving into this book. Kat and Daniel’s relationship is one of many connections in this story that makes the world come alive. I adore the entire supporting cast, from Cynthia to Mr. Thanos to Tess and beyond. All the characters are well-drawn and come with unique personalities and voices that help make the book come alive. With its enjoyable characters, Ashley’s engaging writing style, and an interesting mystery that both stands on its own and moves overarching plots forward, there’s no way The Secret of Bow Lane could fail to entertain. I finished Kat’s latest adventure a well-satisfied reader and I’m looking forward to seeing where Jennifer Ashley takes our favorite cook next.



FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: Death at the Crystal Palace by Jennifer Ashley

Death at the Crystal Palace by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Below Stairs Mysteries, Book 5
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Mystery 

ISBN: 9780593099391
Release Date: July 6, 2021
EBook Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Audible
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

While attending an exhibition at the Crystal Palace, young cook Kat Holloway is approached by a woman in distress. Lady Covington is a wealthy widow convinced that her entire family is trying to kill her. Kat feels compelled to help, and she escorts the lady home to discover whether she is delusional or in true danger.

It is quickly apparent that the threat is all too real, and Kat promises aid. Her charming confidant Daniel McAdam is busy infiltrating a plot against the Crown, and she worries he will not have time to lend his sleuthing expertise. This might be for the best, as Kat fears her growing emotional entanglement with Daniel can only lead to disaster. But soon, Kat faces a more serious threat when her involvement in both investigations plunges her into peril.

Clever cook Kat Holloway is back in Death at the Crystal Palace. Every time I delve into a Below Stairs Mystery I’m ready for an interesting puzzle and intriguing characters and Jennifer Ashley did not disappoint.

While attending an exhibition at the Crystal Palace with her friends and daughter, Kat is approached by Lady Covington, wealthy widow of a railroad magnate. Lady Covington is sure she’s being poisoned and she’s convincing enough to rouse Kat’s curiosity. Kat uses her knowledge and instincts to navigate the potentially treacherous waters of Lady Covington’s household. Suspects abound and there’s a lot of legwork for Kat to do if she’s to figure out what the poison is, who is behind the poisoning, and why. Her friend Lady Cynthia Shires is on hand to help, as Kat’s usual partner in crime, Daniel McAdam, is busy with a task of his own. Kat’s expanding circle of friends fill out the world wonderfully and I adore Cynthia in particular. She plays a larger role in the story this time, especially once her parents enter the scene. It’s lovely watching her friendship with Kat deepen and I continue to root for Cynthia’s burgeoning romance with mathematician Elgin Thanos to take flight.

Speaking of romance, Kat’s own with Daniel continues to inch forward. I like the slow burn and as is common with these books, I gobbled up whatever crumbs about Daniel’s situation Ashley dropped along the way. Daniel is investigating a plot against the Crown and as much as he wants to keep that part of his life separate from Kat, there is a point at which he needs her help. Daniel and Kat’s investigations are both interesting although the personalities in the Covington case make that the more compelling storyline of the two. I loved how everything flowed seamlessly together and how each reoccurring character played their part.

Death at the Crystal Palace is the fifth Below Stairs Mystery and to enjoy the book fully you should at least have an idea of the main characters and the relationships between them. I adore the world Ashley has built and the connections that continue to deepen warm my heart. Any time spent with Kat and company is a good time and it’s because the characters Ashley has created are endearing, well-drawn, and compelling. I finished Death at the Crystal Palace satisfied with how things turned out but I cannot wait to see what mystery crosses Kat’s path next!



FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: Murder in the East End by Jennifer Ashley

Murder in the East End by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Below Stairs Mysteries, Book 4
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Mystery

ISBN: 9780593099377
Release Date: August 4, 2020
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Audible
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

When young cook Kat Holloway learns that the children of London's Foundling Hospital are mysteriously disappearing and one of their nurses has been murdered, she can't turn away. She enlists the help of her charming and enigmatic confidant Daniel McAdam, who has ties to Scotland Yard, and Errol Fielding, a disreputable man from Daniel’s troubled past, to bring the killer to justice. Their investigation takes them from the grandeur of Mayfair to the slums of the East End, during which Kat learns more about Daniel and his circumstances than she ever could have imagined.

I always love entering Kat Holloway’s world. In Murder in the East End my favorite no-nonsense cook and amateur sleuth is on the hunt to find out what happened to children who have gone missing from London’s Foundling Hospital. She’s brought into this case by Daniel McAdam and his foster brother, a vicar who is more than he seems. As the trio and their unlikely band of allies (the bold and kindhearted Cynthia, adorable and brilliant Thanos, and mysterious newcomer Judith) delve deeper into the Foundling Hospital’s practices they’ll find themselves in the slums, where danger and heartbreak await.

Kat is the heart of the Below Stairs mysteries and she continues to be a fantastic heroine. She’s got a way of getting people to open up and I like watching her put the puzzle pieces together. And as you might guess from the introduction of a man from Daniel’s past, we do finally learn a bit more about the mysterious Mr. McAdam. I practically gobbled up these crumbs of information alongside Kat, though of course I still wanted more. I cannot wait until the day Daniel’s full history is revealed. As for the supporting cast, author Jennifer Ashley continues to flesh out these wonderful characters. Everyone’s voice is unique and their trials and tribulations make the world of the story feel rich.

I thoroughly enjoyed Murder in the East End but I struggled with rating it because the mystery itself fell a bit short for me. Even though they’re hunting for missing children who are in terrible danger, there’s an almost meandering quality to this story that didn’t quite go with the dire situation. The mystery lacked intensity and wasn’t as well defined as I’m used to. And though I won’t spoil the plot, I will say I didn’t feel quite satisfied by the revelations that occurred. Of course, part of the reason for that is due to an overarching plotline that will continue in future books so I’ll be content to wait and see what happens there. Even with these issues, I love spending time with Kat, Daniel, and their friends and I am always sucked into their world and their developing relationships. I cannot wait to see where Ms. Ashley takes these characters next!


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: A Mackenzie Clan Christmas by Jennifer Ashley

A Mackenzie Clan Christmas by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Mackenzies & McBrides, Book 8.5 & Book 11.5
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Romance

ISBN: 9781984805584
Release Date: October 29, 2019
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Audible
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

Celebrate the holidays with New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Ashley's Mackenzie clan in two heartwarming novellas.

Includes a never before published Mackenzie Christmas novella!
When the Mackenzie family gathers in Scotland to celebrate the holidays the love and joy of the Christmas spirit captures everyone's hearts.

And a reader favorite…A Mackenzie Clan Gathering
The Mackenzie clan has gathered for Hart's birthday at the sprawling family estate in Scotland. But before the festivities can start, the house is robbed, and thieves make off with an untold fortune in rare art.

Ian Mackenzie and his brothers must do what they can to retrieve the family treasure, but Ian is distracted by a family friend who claims he might have the power to "cure" Ian of his madness forever. All the Mackenzies must draw together as courage, love, and a tantalizing mystery serve to strengthen their bond, and redefine the meaning of family.

“A Mackenzie Yuletide” (Mackenzies & McBrides, Book 11.5)
A ghostly visitor, a missing artifact, and multiple generations of Mackenzies getting in on both hunts? Sign me up! “A Mackenzie Yuletide” is a delightful Christmastime romp featuring one of my favorite families.

It’s December 1898 and Mac Mackenzie is at Kilmorgan painting when he spies a ghost. His siblings and their various offspring are determined to settle their supernatural debate over the existence of ghosts by catching the specter. Meanwhile, Ian Mackenzie is equally determined to get the perfect Hogmanay gift for his wife, Beth. But the priceless antique necklace has been stolen and he’s not the only person – or even the only Mackenzie – searching for it. Both mysteries are delightful, mostly because various Mackenzies team up to solve the cases.

Ian has always been a scene-stealer for me, so I was delighted to catch up with both him and his beloved Beth. Their love for one another and their children is as strong as ever and spending time with them was pure joy. And speaking of their children, author Jennifer Ashley gives an exciting peek into the minds of some of the Mackenzie children. The only downside to this? I desperately hope the younger Mackenzies get books of their own one day because they are as fascinating as their parents. Cam’s daughter, Gavina, intrigued me most of all and her determination never to wed means she’s practically begging for a book of her own.

The Mackenzie clan is bright, boisterous, and unique. The romantic and familial bonds are on full display in “A Mackenzie Yuletide” and made me smile more than once. I’m so glad I got to go on another adventure with the Mackenzies and I desperately hope Ms. Ashley has more stories in store for them.


“A Mackenzie Clan Gathering” (Mackenzies & McBrides, Book 8.5)
“A Mackenzie Clan Gathering” is a beautiful story brimming with emotion. Fans of the Mackenzies & McBrides series won’t want to miss this novella, for it’s sure to make you fall in love with the Mackenzies all over again.

Ian, Beth, and their children are the only Mackenzies in residence at Kilmorgan when thieves break in, stealing a good portion of the duke’s art collection. Ian is determined to track the culprits before the rest of his family shows up, but he’s sidetracked by the arrival of Beth’s late husband’s brother, a man who claims he can cure Ian of his “madness.” Ian and Beth are two of my all-time favorite characters, and in “A Mackenzie Clan Gathering” we get to see how they’ve grown over the years they’ve been married. Their bond is stronger than ever, but when Ian is tempted with the possibility of being “cured,” it just about broke my heart, especially because he wants to do so for Beth’s sake. Of course, we know two things: (1) Beth loves him just the way he is and (2) Ian isn’t mad, nor does he need to be “cured” – he has Asperger’s, decades before anyone knows what that is. What follows I’ll leave readers to discover, but I will say that we get to see more interesting things about the Mackenzie family. Most importantly, Ms. Ashley touched my emotions showing the deep bonds of love – romantic and familial – among the Mackenzie clan.

The investigation into who is behind the art theft takes some interesting turns, tying into the series in an unexpected way. And though “A Mackenzie Clan Gathering” is primarily Ian and Beth’s story, other family members do get their moments to shine. I’ll never get tired of seeing Hart with Ian; the duke’s love for his youngest brother never fails to grab me and revisiting this novella made me want to re-read their books all over again. If you’re new to the series, don’t worry – you’ll still be able to follow along. But truly, this story is probably best enjoyed if you’re already invested in the Mackenzie & McBrides series. I absolutely loved revisiting Ian and Beth and I hope Ms. Ashley continues to gift readers with more glimpses into what happens after happily ever after for the entire Mackenzie clan.


A Mackenzie Clan Christmas is perfect for any fan of Ms. Ashley’s Mackenzie family. It’s lovely to catch up with such beloved characters after their happily ever after, to see the bonds of love and family strengthen as their number grows. Both novellas warmed my heart and made me smile; they’re the perfect holiday reads that you can enjoy all year long.


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: Scandal Above Stairs by Jennifer Ashley

Scandal Above Stairs by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Below Stairs Mysteries, Book 2
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Mystery

ISBN: 9780399585531
Release Date: July 3, 2018
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

A mystery of stolen antiquities has Kat Holloway setting aside her apron once again for the intrigues of the upper echelons of Victorian London

Priceless artwork has gone missing from the home of a wealthy baronet, and his wife stands to take the blame. When Kat's employer asks for help in clearing her friend's name, Kat trades her kitchen for the homes of Mayfair's wealthiest families. Soon antiques are disappearing not only from the extravagant households of connoisseurs and collectors, but from the illustrious British Museum.

As the thefts increase in frequency, Kat calls upon her friend Daniel McAdam, who has already set himself up in a pawnshop on the Strand as a seedy receiver of stolen goods. When a man is murdered in the shop, Kat must use all of her wits to see that the thieves are caught and justice is done.

There’s no rest for Kat Holloway, the most talented cook in Mayfair. Not only has her kitchen assistant quit to be married and thus left her shorthanded, Lady Cynthia has a request: she wants Kat’s help to solve a mystery and clear her friend Clemmie’s name. Valuable paintings have gone missing from her household and Clemmie’s husband is blaming her for it. One mystery begets another and another as first Kat learns that antiquities are being stolen from multiple residences, then she finds out that her friend Daniel McAdam is undercover in in a seedy pawnshop. With her curiosity piqued, Kat will have to use all her detective skills above stairs and below to uncover a mastermind willing to kill to protect his secrets.

I love falling into Kat Holloway’s world. In Scandal Above Stairs Jennifer Ashley drew me in from the start with a seemingly simple mystery that leads to something far more complex and I did not want to put the book down.

Kat is the heart and soul of the story and she’s a fantastic heroine. She’s clever, observant, loyal, talented, and kind, but Ms. Ashley keeps her from feeling too good to be real. Kat has a no-nonsense attitude, but she also draws people to her, which is how she finds herself in the middle of this latest mystery. Cynthia trusts and respects Kat, which is why she asks for her help in the first place and I love the unlikely friendship between a rather unconventional lady and an equally unique cook. The characters are what makes Scandal Above Stairs shine. Familiar characters and those newly introduced are all incredibly well-crafted and are like puzzle pieces who fit together perfectly. My favorite relationship is definitely the one between Kat and Daniel. This time around, we learn more about Daniel and the past he keeps secret. I was thrilled to learn more about him and I was excited that he opened up to Kat when he doesn’t trust most people. The romantic tension between Kat and Daniel continues to build and I’m looking forward to seeing how their relationship progresses.

Scandal Above Stairs is the second full-length book in the Kat Holloway series and it can be read as a standalone. However, for a more complete reading experience I recommend first reading the prequel novella, A Soupçon of Poison, and the first novel, Death Below Stairs, in order to get a better understanding of the characters and their relationships (Daniel and Kat’s in particular). I hesitate to say any more about this book because mysteries lose their excitement when you talk too much about them. Suffice it to say that Ms. Ashley never fails to entertain and her blend of fact and fiction, of murder and mystery is wonderful. Kat and her friends are endearing, the story moves at a quick pace, I was thoroughly entertained, and I cannot wait to read the next Kat Holloway book!


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: Death Below Stairs by Jennifer Ashley

Death Below Stairs by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Below Stairs Mysteries, Book 1
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Mystery

ISBN: 9780399585517
Release Date: January 2, 2018
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

Victorian class lines are crossed when cook Kat Holloway is drawn into a murder that reaches all the way to the throne.

Highly sought-after young cook Kat Holloway takes a position in a Mayfair mansion and soon finds herself immersed in the odd household of Lord Rankin. Kat is unbothered by the family’s eccentricities as long as they stay away from her kitchen, but trouble finds its way below stairs when her young Irish assistant is murdered.

Intent on discovering who killed the helpless kitchen maid, Kat turns to the ever-capable Daniel McAdam, who is certainly much more than the charming delivery man he pretends to be. Along with the assistance of Lord Rankin’s unconventional sister-in-law and a mathematical genius, Kat and Daniel discover that the household murder was the barest tip of a plot rife with danger and treason—one that’s a threat to Queen Victoria herself.

Murder, secrets, and seedcake all come together to form one highly entertaining mystery in Death Below Stairs. Jennifer Ashley’s first Kat Holloway novel is a delight, thanks in large part to the wonderful cast of characters.

Kat Holloway is a talented cook and I loved seeing how a Victorian-era household chef works. Yet while that’s interesting in its own right, that’s not what endeared her to me. Kat is smart, no-nonsense, and stands up for what is right, even when it might get her in trouble. She’s a clever sleuth, and when her assistant is murdered in the middle of the night, she becomes determined to find out who killed the girl and why. But a cook – no matter how quick – cannot solve crime alone, which is why she needs the help of Daniel McAdam. Daniel is a mysterious figure who puts on and sheds personas at the drop of a hat. He seems to be able to find anything at any time and I’m desperate to know more about him. What I do know so far, I absolutely adore. Even though this isn’t a romance (though it does have romantic elements), I still have to say that Daniel is a pretty swoon-worthy hero. His charm radiates off the page and the way he interacts with Kat makes me sigh more often than not. The two of them have seriously fantastic chemistry that I’m hoping will continue to develop over the course of the series.

Daniel and Kat are at the heart of Death Below Stairs, but they’re not the only interesting characters. Daniel’s son James is as charming as his father and Kat’s daughter Grace is as sweet as can be. Lord Rankin’s household staff are a bunch of colorful characters that add life and depth to the story. Every single supporting character in this book is well-drawn and adds to the tale. But though the characters are what stood out most to me in Death Below Stairs, that doesn’t mean the mystery is lacking. A not-so-simple case of murder leads to clues about a Fenian plot, one with dire implications that leads to an exciting race against the clock. Ms. Ashley seamlessly blends historical details in with fiction and the result is a marvelous mystery that’s filled with action.

Death Below Stairs is the first full-length Kat Holloway novel and readers can easily dive right in here. However, there is a prequel novella, A Soupçon of Poison, that I highly recommend reading first. It gave me a better sense going into the novel of Kat’s character, background, professional situation, and her relationships with Daniel, James, and Grace.

Death Below Stairs is an engaging murder mystery overall. Jennifer Ashley’s writing always draws me in and this story is no exception. And while I finished this book a well-satisfied reader, I cannot wait to see what Kat and Daniel take on next in Scandal Above Stairs!


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: A Mackenzie Clan Gathering by Jennifer Ashley

A Mackenzie Clan Gathering by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Mackenzies & McBrides, Book 8.5
Publisher: InterMix
Genre: Historical Romance

ISBN: 9781101615959
Release Date: November 17, 2015
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

Ian Mackenzie is awakened at Kilmorgan Castle one night to find robbers stealing the priceless art collection of his oldest brother, Hart. Since Ian and Beth are the only ones in resident at Kilmorgan at the moment, Ian decides he must find the art and the culprits before the family shows up for Hart’s birthday gathering. With Inspector Fellows and Beth, he investigates, though Ian is somewhat worried by Beth’s late husband’s brother, a retired missionary, who decides to visit. Does John Ackerley hold the “cure” to Ian’s madness? And can Ian discover what has happened to Hart’s treasures, and who is targeting the Mackenzies before the enemy strikes again?

Return to Kilmorgan Castle to visit the Victorian branch of the Mackenzie family, and catch up on the brothers and friends, their children, and their lives.

A Mackenzie Clan Gathering is a beautiful story brimming with emotion. Fans of Jennifer Ashley’s Mackenzies & McBrides series won’t want to miss this story, for it’s sure to make you fall in love with the Mackenzies all over again.

Ian, Beth, and their children are the only Mackenzies in residence at Kilmorgan when thieves break in, stealing a good portion of the duke’s art collection. Ian is determined to track the culprits before the rest of his family shows up, but he’s sidetracked by the arrival of Beth’s late husband’s brother, a man who claims he can cure Ian of his “madness.” Ian and Beth are two of my all-time favorite characters, and in A Mackenzie Clan Gathering we get to see how they’ve grown over the years they’ve been married. Their bond is stronger than ever, but when Ian is tempted with the possibility of being “cured,” it just about broke my heart, especially because he wants to do so for Beth’s sake. Of course, we know two things: (1) Beth loves him just the way he is and (2) Ian isn’t mad, he has Asperger’s (decades before anyone knows what that is). What follows I’ll leave readers to discover, but I will say that we get to see more interesting things about the Mackenzie family. Most importantly, Ms. Ashley touched my emotions showing the deep bonds of love – romantic and familial – among the Mackenzie clan.

The investigation into who is behind the art theft takes some interesting turns, tying into the series in an unexpected way. And though A Mackenzie Clan Gathering is primarily Ian and Beth’s story, other family members do get their moments to shine (I’ll never get tired of seeing Hart with Ian). If you’re new to the series, don’t worry – you’ll still be able to follow along. But truly, this story is probably best enjoyed if you’re already invested in the Mackenzie & McBrides series. I absolutely loved revisiting Ian and Beth and I hope Ms. Ashley continues to gift readers with more glimpses into what happens after happily ever after for the Mackenzie clan.


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: The Stolen Mackenzie Bride by Jennifer Ashley

The Stolen Mackenzie Bride by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Mackenzies & McBrides, Book 8
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Romance
ISBN: 9780425266021
Release Date: September 29, 2015
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

1745, Scotland: The youngest son of the scandalous Mackenzie family, Malcolm is considered too wild to tame…until he meets a woman who is too unattainable to resist.

Lady Mary Lennox is English, her father highly loyal to the king, and promised to another Englishman. But despite it being forbidden to speak to Malcolm, Lady Mary is fascinated by the Scotsman, and stolen moments together lead to a passion greater than she’d ever dreamed of finding.

When fighting breaks out between the Highlanders and the King's army, their plans to elope are thwarted, and it will take all of Malcolm’s daring as a Scottish warrior to survive the battle and steal a wife out from under the noses of the English.

The Stolen Mackenzie Bride is a sweeping historical romance that is too compelling to put down. Jennifer Ashley takes readers back in time to the story of Malcolm Mackenzie and Mary Lennox, the ancestors of the beloved nineteenth century Mackenzies.

Mal is the great-great-grandfather of Hart, Cam, Mac, and Ian, and the apples didn’t fall too far from the tree. Mal is strong, protective, handsome, and clever. He’s got charm to spare, but like all Mackenzies, once he sets his sights on something – or someone – he goes after it. Mal is proverbially knocked off his feet when he first sees Mary, and within moments of meeting her he knows she’s the woman for him. Mary may seem the perfect English rose on the surface, but there’s a strength and fire to her that Mal notices immediately. Their initial meeting made me grin and their back-and-forth left me with no doubt that I wouldn’t be able to put The Stolen Mackenzie Bride down until I’d seen these two get their happily ever after. Individually, each is an endearing character who will make you smile one moment and admire their courage the next. Put them together and you have a passionate, emotional, utterly captivating romance.

Even though Mal and Mary fall in love swiftly, that love is tested in the fires of a war that threatens to tear them apart. For The Stolen Mackenzie Bride is set against the backdrop of the Jacobite rising of 1745 and the Mackenzie family is (unwillingly) in the thick of it. It’s fascinating to watch how Ms. Ashley blends fact and fiction, and her attention to detail – not just concerning historical events but to the thoughts and motivations of those caught up in it – makes the story shine. She shows care and respect to the horrifying events, and that adds power, emotion, and a richness to the story that can’t be beat. Ms. Ashley doesn’t pull her punches, and readers will feel the mounting tension as the stakes rise over the course of the book.

Though The Stolen Mackenzie Bride is one of the darker books in the Mackenzies & McBrides series, Ms. Ashley never lets the story get dragged down. There are plenty of moments of love, laughter, and family, and you can be sure that Mal’s brothers will win your heart. Fans of the series will love seeing the similarities between the eighteenth century Mackenzies and the nineteenth century characters. But readers new to the series need not fear - The Stolen Mackenzie Bride can easily be read as a standalone.

Jennifer Ashley is an amazing talent and her Mackenzies & McBrides books are among the best historical romances. Lushly drawn and featuring characters who will grab your heart and not let go, The Stolen Mackenzie Bride is not to be missed!


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: The Scandalous Mackenzies by Jennifer Ashley

The Scandalous Mackenzies by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Mackenzies & McBrides, Books 5.5 and 6.5
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Romance
ISBN: 9780425266274
Release Date: September 1, 2015
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

The Untamed Mackenzie
When Lady Louisa Scranton of the decadent Scottish Mackenzie family is accused of murder, Detective Inspector Lloyd Fellows of Scotland Yard, vows to clear her name. He’s already shared kisses with Lady Louisa, and not only is he convinced of her innocence, he’s falling for her. And while he may be the only hope of restoring her family’s honor, he intrigues Louisa in a way that may be even more scandalous than murder.

Scandal and the Duchess
Scandal follows Rose Barclay, young widow of the Duke of Southdown, wherever she goes. And now she’s been kicked out of her rightful home. But the dashing Scot Steven McBride—a decorated soldier who is notorious for heavy gambling and womanizing during his leave time—comes up with a ruse to foil the journalists and save Rose’s inheritance. But Rose will have to go along with his very scandalous proposal.

“The Untamed Mackenzie”
“The Untamed Mackenzie” starts off with a bang, or rather a drop, as an unwanted suitor falls dead at our illustrious heroine’s feet mere pages into the story. This rather unusual beginning fits the Mackenzies & McBrides series, as none of the assorted family members (related by blood or marriage) can be described as anything but unique. Fellows and Louisa are no exception, and their romance is a sensual tale with a healthy dose of mystery that keeps the story moving at a quick clip.

Fellows may seem a bit uptight in comparison to his scandalous half-brothers, but that anything but the case. His hardened exterior hides a man bursting with emotion. Though we have seen his thirst for justice at play in The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, his dedication and determination to his job comes in second to his passion for Louisa. I love that he was so completely taken with her, that he sees Louisa for the woman she is, not the woman society wants her to be. Louisa, in turn, is every bit as taken with Fellows. Though she begins the story wanting to make an aristocratic match that will repair some of the damage to her family’s name, Louisa can’t get Fellows out of her mind, nor can she forget the two kisses they shared. Their difference in class and the circumstances of his birth don’t matter to her, not when it’s Fellows who is her match in every way. The two of them are a dynamic couple and their chemistry makes the pages of “The Untamed Mackenzie” fly by.

The search to uncover who really killed the Bishop of Hargate is almost as entertaining as the romance. Of course, Louisa and Fellows aren’t on their own when it comes to tracking down the murderer – the entire Mackenzie clan is determined to stick their noses into both the investigation and Fellows and Louisa’s burgeoning romance. As a fan of the series, I couldn’t be more delighted to see my favorite past heroes and heroines steal a scene or two. Ms. Ashley never loses focus on her protagonists, but the Mackenzies are all about family first and foremost. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Mackenzies & McBrides series or are just getting your first taste with “The Untamed Mackenzie,” Fellows and Louisa are sure to charm you and make you hunger for more Mackenzies & McBrides stories.


“Scandal and the Duchess”
“Scandal and the Duchess” is bright and bubbly like good champagne. Jennifer Ashley has delivered a fast-paced tale that is wonderfully entertaining, thanks to her two irresistibly charming protagonists, Rose and Steven.

Steven is a soldier with an easy smile that hides regret. Rose is a kind-hearted young widow who’s down on her luck thanks to a bitter, grasping stepson. Pursued by reporters and with no place to go, Rose is definitely in need of a hero. A chance meeting has Steven practically falling into her lap, and the handsome Scotsman is eager to jump into the role of knight in slightly tarnished armor. Their whirlwind love story requires a touch of suspending disbelief, but both of them are so genuinely good and exactly the kind of people you’d love to be friends with that there’s no way you could not root for their romance. Though the obstacles they face are overcome fairly easily thanks to Steven’s family (and beloved series scene-stealer Ian Mackenzie in particular), I was still glued to my seat as I read “Scandal and the Duchess.”

Ms. Ashley’s Mackenzies & McBrides stories never fail to entertain, and “Scandal and the Duchess” is no exception. Rose and Steven’s story is sure to sweep you away for a few hours and I dare you not to smile as these two endearing characters find happily ever after.


The Scandalous Mackenzies pairs together two excellent Mackenzies & McBrides novellas for the first time. Each story has something unique to the series to offer, but what they have in common is that they will sweep you away for a few hours and leave you a well-satisfied reader. With the simmering passion of Louisa and Fellows in “The Untamed Mackenzie” and the sprightliness of Steven and Rose in “Scandal and the Duchess,” The Scandalous Mackenzies is a book that is sure to delight any historical romance fan.


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: The Untamed Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley

The Untamed Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Mackenzies & McBrides, Book 5.5
Publisher: InterMix
Genre: Historical Romance
ISBN: 9781101615928
Source: Purchased by Reviewer
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

To redeem her family’s disgraced name, Lady Louisa Scranton has decided to acquire a proper husband. He needs to be a man of fortune and highly respectable in order to restore both her family’s lost wealth and reputation. She enters the Marriage Mart with all flags flying, determined to find the right bachelor.

But Louisa’s hopes are dashed when the Bishop of Hargate drops dead at her feet--and she is shockingly accused of murder! Soon, Louisa’s so-called friends begin shunning her, because the company of a suspected killer is never desirable in polite society.

The problem comes to the ears of Detective Inspector Lloyd Fellows, by-blow of the decadent Scottish Mackenzie family and an inspector for Scotland Yard. He has shared two passionate kisses with Lady Louisa-and vows to clear her name. For not only does he know she's innocent, he recognizes he's falling for the lovely lady.

Fellows is Louisa’s only hope of restoring her family’s honor--and it is he alone who intrigues Louisa in a way that may be even more scandalous than murder…

The Untamed Mackenzie starts off with a bang, or rather a drop, as an unwanted suitor falls dead at our illustrious heroine’s feet mere pages into the story. This rather unusual beginning fits the Mackenzies & McBrides series, as none of the assorted family members (related by blood or marriage) can be described as anything but unique. Fellows and Louisa are no exception, and their romance is a sensual tale with a healthy dose of mystery that keeps the story moving at a quick clip.

Fellows may seem a bit uptight in comparison to his scandalous half-brothers, but that anything but the case. His hardened exterior hides a man bursting with emotion. Though we have seen his thirst for justice at play in The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, his dedication and determination to his job comes in second to his passion for Louisa. I love that he was so completely taken with her, that he sees Louisa for the woman she is, not the woman society wants her to be. Louisa, in turn, is every bit as taken with Fellows. Though she begins the story wanting to make an aristocratic match that will repair some of the damage to her family’s name, Louisa can’t get Fellows out of her mind, nor can she forget the two kisses they shared. Their difference in class and the circumstances of his birth don’t matter to her, not when it’s Fellows who is her match in every way. The two of them are a dynamic couple and their chemistry makes the pages of The Untamed Mackenzie fly by.

The search to uncover who really killed the Bishop of Hargate is almost as entertaining as the romance. Of course, Louisa and Fellows aren’t on their own when it comes to tracking down the murderer – the entire Mackenzie clan is determined to stick their noses into both the investigation and Fellows and Louisa’s burgeoning romance. As a fan of the series, I couldn’t be more delighted to see my favorite past heroes and heroines steal a scene or two. Ms. Ashley never loses focus on her protagonists, but the Mackenzies are all about family first and foremost. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Mackenzies & McBrides series or are just getting your first taste with The Untamed Mackenzie, Fellows and Louisa are sure to charm you and make you hunger for more Mackenzies & McBrides stories.


FTC Disclosure: This book was purchased by the reviewer. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Best Books of 2014

With 2015 fast approaching (Can you believe it?), it’s time to take a look back and pick out the best of the best. 2014 was a bit of an uneven year for me in terms of reading. I read 159 books, some of them fabulous…and some not so much. I rediscovered my love of contemporary romance, the subgenre that first hooked me on romance novels in general. I also tried 33 new (to me) authors, and found some new favorites (Jenn Bennett and Macy Beckett are among my new autobuy authors). And finally, I participated in my fifth A to Z Reading Challenge, a challenge I always enjoy.

I read a number of excellent books this year, but I did manage to narrow the list down so I could spotlight the best of the best that I read in 2014:



Top Ten Books of 2014
Top Re-Reads of 2014
Honorable Mentions

My Top Ten Books of 2014

Note: Not necessarily all published in 2014, but all were new-to-me reads
Also note: The books are alphabetized by title as I love them all equally

1. Barefoot in White (Barefoot Bay Brides, Book 1) by Roxanne St. Claire
My Review | Buy Link





2. Bitter Spirits (Roaring Twenties, Book 1) by Jenn Bennett
My Review | Buy Link






3. Etiquette & Espionage (Finishing School, Book 1) by Gail Carriger
Buy Link






4. Festive in Death (In Death, Book 39) by J.D. Robb
My Review | Buy Link






5. High Noon by Nora Roberts
Buy Link






6. Hyperbole and a Half: Unfortunate Situations, Flawed Coping Mechanisms, Mayhem, and Other Things That Happened by Allie Brosh
My Review | Buy Link





7. Make You Mine (Dumont Bachelors, Book 1) by Macy Beckett
My Review | Buy Link






8. A Marriage Most Convenient by C.C. Galloway
My Review Coming Soon | Buy Link






9. Shield of Winter (Psy-Changeling, Book 13) by Nalini Singh
My Review | Buy Link






10. Sin Undone (Demonica, Book 5) by Larissa Ione
Buy Link

My Top Re-Reads of 2014

1. Decadence (Emerald Valley, Book 1.5) by Riley Shane
Buy Link






3. Judgment in Death (In Death, Book 11) by J.D. Robb
Buy Link






4. A Very Personal Trainer by Justine Elyot
My Review | Buy Link







7. Victorian Valentine by Riley Shane
Buy Link

Honorable Mentions

These books were also new-to-me reads in 2014 and they barely missed making my top ten list.

1. Alpha & Omega (Alpha & Omega, Book 0.5) by Patricia Briggs
Buy Link





2. Azagoth (Demonica, Book 10.5 / Lords of Deliverance, Book 5.5) by Larissa Ione
Buy Link






3. Midnight Action (Killer Instincts, Book 5) by Elle Kennedy
My Review | Buy Link






4. Once in a Lifetime (Lucky Harbor, Book 9) by Jill Shalvis
My Review | Buy Link






5. One in a Million (Lucky Harbor, Book 12) by Jill Shalvis
My Review | Buy Link






6. Rules for a Proper Governess by Jennifer Ashley
My Review | Buy Link






7. Show Me, Baby (Masters of the Shadowlands, Book 9) by Cherise Sinclair
Buy Link






8. The Terrible and Wonderful Reasons Why I Run Long Distances by Matthew Inman
Buy Link






9. This Is Who I Am (Masters of the Shadowlands, Book 7) by Cherise Sinclair
My Review | Buy Link






10. Unleashing Mr. Darcy by Teri Wilson
My Review | Buy Link

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Review: Scandal and the Duchess by Jennifer Ashley

Scandal and the Duchess by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Mackenzies & McBrides, Book 6.5
Publisher: InterMix
Genre: Historical Romance
ISBN: 9781101615935
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

Scandal follows Rose Barclay, young widow of the Duke of Southdown, wherever she goes. It's never her fault, but newspapers love to write about the young woman from Scotland, and the much older duke she married, who died on their honeymoon. The duke left her with a large widow's portion, now contested by his son, who kicks Rose out of the estate's dower house and uses it to kennel his dogs.

Rose does not need to be found with a large, handsome Scot passed out at her feet, fueling gossips and giving her son-in-law more ammunition. The Scot is Steven McBride--a decorated soldier who is notorious for heavy gambling and womanizing during his leave time. Steven is happy to open his eyes and find the beautiful woman standing over him, and happy to help spirit her away. He comes up with a ruse to foil the journalists, but Rose will have to go along with his very scandalous proposal.

Scandal and the Duchess is bright and bubbly like good champagne. Jennifer Ashley has delivered a fast-paced tale that is wonderfully entertaining, thanks to her two irresistibly charming protagonists, Rose and Steven.

Steven is a soldier with an easy smile that hides regret. Rose is a kind-hearted young widow who’s down on her luck thanks to a bitter, grasping stepson. Pursued by reporters and with no place to go, Rose is definitely in need of a hero. A chance meeting has Steven practically falling into her lap, and the handsome Scotsman is eager to jump into the role of knight in slightly tarnished armor. Their whirlwind love story requires a touch of suspending disbelief, but both of them are so genuinely good and exactly the kind of people you’d love to be friends with that there’s no way you could not root for their romance. Though the obstacles they face are overcome fairly easily thanks to Steven’s family (and beloved series scene-stealer Ian Mackenzie in particular), I was still glued to my seat as I read Scandal and the Duchess.

Ms. Ashley’s Mackenzies & McBrides stories never fail to entertain, and Scandal and the Duchess is no exception. Rose and Steven’s story is sure to sweep you away for a few hours and I dare you not to smile as these two endearing characters find happily ever after.


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Review: Rules for a Proper Governess by Jennifer Ashley

Rules for a Proper Governess by Jennifer Ashley
Series: Mackenzies & McBrides, Book 7
Publisher: Berkley
Genre: Historical Romance
ISBN: 9780425266038
Release Date: October 7, 2014
Source: Publisher
Buy it here: Amazon | B&N
Jennifer Ashley Reading Order

To Kiss a Thief…

Scottish barrister Sinclair McBride can face the most sinister criminals in London--but the widower's two unruly children are a different matter. Little Caitriona and Andrew go through a governess a week, sending the ladies fleeing in tears. There is, however, one woman in town who can hold her own.

Roberta "Bertie" Frasier enters Sinclair's life by stealing his watch--and then stealing a kiss. Intrigued by the handsome highlander, Bertie winds up saving his children from a dangerous situation and returning them to their father. Impressed with how they listen to her, Sinclair asks the lively beauty to be their governess, never guessing that the unconventional lady will teach him a lesson or two in love.

Rules for a Proper Governess is both touching and cheeky good fun. Jennifer Ashley’s seventh Mackenzies & McBrides novel is fast-moving, engrossing entertainment, thanks to the story’s utterly lovable characters.

Sinclair McBride has been a living ghost since the death of his wife. Though he fights passionately for what is right, the only reason he keeps going is his two children. It broke my heart that Sinclair had forgotten how to truly live. Of course, when Bertie enters his life his world is turned upside down in the most delightful way. Bertie Fraiser is one of my favorite Jennifer Ashley heroines. She grew up on the streets and has lived a hard life, but she hasn’t lost her sense of wonder. She’s got a huge heart and it opens almost instantaneously to Sinclair and his two children, Andrew and Cat. Bertie isn’t exactly governess material – on paper. She’s a woman from the streets with quick fingers and a charming smile. But she’s exactly what the McBride family needs. I loved watching her with Cat and Andrew; they need love as much as their father does. The four of them made the most wonderful family, even before they realized that is what they’d become. As for the romance between Sinclair and Bertie, it was easy to become invested in it as the two have crackling chemistry. It doesn’t hurt either that both of them are incredibly likeable. Quite simply, it was pure pleasure to watch their relationship develop.

There’s a bit of danger and intrigue in Rules for a Proper Governess, mostly tied to vile letters Sinclair receives regarding his late wife. But truly, what makes this book stand out is the focus on family. Sinclair may only be related to the infamous Mackenzies through his sister, but that doesn’t make him any less one of them. Fans of the Mackenzies & McBrides series are surely going to delight in the roles their favorite past heroes and heroines play in Rules for a Proper Governess. The Mackenzies are as entertaining as ever, and I had to smile every time my personal favorite Mackenzie, Ian, showed up on page. That being said, Ms. Ashley did a fantastic job of not letting the boisterous Mackenzies overpower Sinclair and Bertie. The two of them not only held their own, but shined even among the crowd, which is as it should be in their book.

Rules for a Proper Governess was a joy to read from beginning to end. The Mackenzies & McBrides is one of my favorite series, and Sinclair and Bertie’s book shows just why. Ms. Ashley has once again delivered a wonderfully engaging romance filled with unique characters who capture your heart and stay with you long after you’ve finished their tale.


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Best Books of 2012

2012 was a pretty good year in Reading Land and it’s fun to once again look back at what I read and single out my favorite books and authors of the year.

Number of books I read:216
Number of new-to-me authors whose books I read: 59
Other challenges I participated in: A to Z Reading Challenge
Favorite authors of 2012: C.C. Galloway, Larissa Ione, J.D. Robb, Nora Roberts, Riley Shane, and Dee Tenorio
Favorite new-to-me authors of 2012: Louisa Edwards and Abigail Roux

Now comes the fun part - taking stock and picking the best of the best. I read a lot of great books this year that it was hard to categorize this part:

My Top Twenty Books of 2012 (new-to-me-books)
My Top Re-Reads of 2012
Honorable Mentions

My Top Twenty Books of 2012

Note: Not necessarily all published in 2012 but all were new-to-me reads
Also note: The books are alphabetized by title as I love them all equally

1. 10 Ways to Steal Your Lover (Love By Numbers, Book 1) by Dee Tenorio
My Review | Buy Link





2. Bed, Breakfast and Bondage (Emerald Valley, Book 1) by Riley Shane
Buy Link






3. Boris and Bella by Carolyn Crimi (illustrations by Gris Grimly)
Buy Link






4. Bound Hearts (Portland Tide, Book 2) by C.C. Galloway
My Review | Buy Link






5. The Card by George Seaton
Buy Link







6. Family by Lynley Wayne
Buy Link






7. Family Is Forever by Anna Lee
Buy Link






8. Forever and a Day (Lucky Harbor, Book 6) by Jill Shalvis
My Review | Buy Link






9. The Good Life by Diana DeRicci
Buy Link






10. The Gravedigger’s Brawl by Abigail Roux
My Review | Buy Link






11. In the Penalty Box (Seattle Marauders, Book 2) by Riley Shane
Buy Link






12. Lord of Darkness (Maiden Lane, Book 5) by Elizabeth Hoyt
My Review | Buy Link






13. Mackenzie Family Christmas: The Perfect Gift (Highland Pleasures, Book 4.5) by Jennifer Ashley
My Review | Buy Link






14. The Prince of Galerir (The Galerir Saga, Book 1) by Anna Lee
Buy Link






15. Rogue Rider (Lords of Deliverance, Book 4) by Lairssa Ione
My Review | Buy Link






16. Rules Are Made to Be Broken (Lines of Marsden, Book 1) by N.J. Nielsen
Buy Link






17. Soulless: The Manga, Vol. 1 by Gail Carriger
Buy Link






18. Three Schemes and a Scandal (Writing Girls, Book 3.5) by Maya Rodale
My Review | Buy Link






19. Victorian Valentine by Riley Shane
Buy Link






20. The Virgin’s Revenge (Rancho del Cielo, Book 4) by Dee Tenorio
My Review | Buy Link

My Top Re-Reads of 2012

1. Conspiracy in Death (In Death, Book 8) by J.D. Robb
Buy Link






2. Glory in Death (In Death, Book 2) by J.D. Robb
Buy Link






3. The Lady Most Likely… by Julia Quinn, Connie Brockway, and Eloisa James
My Review | Buy Link






4. Naked in Death (In Death, Book 1) by J.D. Robb
Buy Link






5. The Next Always (Inn Boonsboro, Book 1) by Nora Roberts
Buy Link






6. Purity in Death (In Death, Book 15) by J.D. Robb
Buy Link

Honorable Mentions

These books barely missed making the top twenty list but they’re excellent.

1. Born to Be Wild (Welcome to Paradise, Book 3) by Elle Kennedy
My Review | Buy Link






2. Christmas Hopes by Anna Lee
Buy Link






3. Loving Him
Buy Link






4. Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin
Buy Link







5. Too Hot to Touch (Rising Star Chef, Book 1) by Louisa Edwards
My Review | Buy Link






6. Wicked Appetite (Lizzy & Diesel, Book 1) by Janet Evanovich
Buy Link

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