The Duke's Proposal (St. Martin's) by Leslie LaFoy is up first. Lady Fiona Turnbridge has a murky background, but a father who eventually acknowledged her as his own, which makes up some for her not-quite-proper behavior, though not nearly all. Lord Ian Cabott, Duke of Dunsford, has some heavy responsibilities, including a young orphan ward who's giving him a very difficult time. Fiona knows just how to handle her, and Ian is grateful. And intrigued the more time he spends in her company. But the dowager duchess has higher hopes for her future daughter-in-law. I think, of the sisters in this series, I had higher hopes for Fiona's story. Not that it isn't pleasant, but it didn't really reel me in the way I'd expected. But you do get to revisit her sisters in this one, which is fun. This one gets three of Cupid's five arrows, but it's not a keeper for me.
If You Deceive (Pocket) by Kresley Cole is next, with Ethan MacCarrick's turn. He's got revenge in mind, with Madeleine van Rowen, daughter of his enemy, the pawn. Love her and leave her, that's the plan. But the best-laid plans never do work out, do they? And this is no exception, with Ethan falling for Maddy and falling hard. But when she knows his secret, can she ever forgive him? I liked this one well enough, but something about it kept me from loving it. I'm not sure what, though. It's getting three arrows as well.
The Wedding Dress (HQN) by Kimberly Cates is next. Emma McDaniel is about to star in a movie unlike anything she's ever done, and to prepare, she's heading for Scotland, to study up on the woman she'll portray. Jared Butler is none too happy to have her there, disturbing his life. Emma and the brooding Jared shouldn't be a match made in heaven, but the more time they spend together, the more attached they are. But Emma can't stay, and Jared can't leave. This one is absolutely delightful! The characters are well-done and quite believable, and the secondary cast is equally well-drawn. I quite enjoyed this one and hated to reach the end. I'm giving this one four arrows, and tracking down the previous books in the series.
Until next time, happy reading!
