First up is "The Prodigal Hero" by Nancy Butler (Signet). Though wronged years ago by her father, MacHeath cannot ignore the warning when he overhears two roughs plotting to kidnap Alexa Prescott. MacHeath remembers her as a willful child, but, though the young woman he kidnaps to protect her from the ruffians is still stubborn, she's definitely a woman. This pair has more than their share of stubbornness and pride, and they have their work cut out for them to outsmart the criminals and admit their feelings. This one gets three of Cupid's five arrows.
Next is Notorious Widow by Allison Lane (Signet). Blake, Earl of Rockhurst is a bit confused. First he believes Catherine Parrish to be a sweet, maternal sort, but then after witnessing a scene between her and a young scoundrel, he's not sure what to think. His efforts to clear her name from the rumors being spread about her only bring the pair closer. But is it duty or something deeper? I'm giving this one three arrows as well.
In "A Grand Design" by Emma Jensen (Signet), Cate Buchanan must act the part of doting niece rather than talented architect in front of the Marquess of Tregaron. Her uncles pose as the real architects while she does the work society would frown on from a mere woman. But Tregaron is intrigued by this woman who seems to be hiding something. This wasn't as lively as the last two and has earned only two and a half arrows.
Finally, I also read "Whispers Through Time" by Sherry Lewis (Jove Time Passages). Kurt Richards isn't having a good day. After his live-in walks out, he takes refuge in his work, going to guard the ancient ruins he loves more than anything. But fate has a twist in store for him when it sends him back to 1889 and Olivia Hamilton, who needs him even more than his precious ruins in the present. Someone's stealing artifacts from her ruins, and if she can't find a way to buy back her mortgage, she'll lose her home. Kurt has suffered through enough bad relationships to want to stay uninvolved, but something about Olivia draws him to her. They must unravel the mystery to find a way to stay together. There's a wonderful subplot here with a friend that I hope will lead to its own book. I'm giving this one four arrows.
Until next week, happy Thanksgiving, but find some time for a good book!
