Hello, and welcome back! It is absolutely gorgeous here right now, and I’m working outside today for a change. There are still a couple of caterpillars in the dill plant, but I expect they’re the last of this season. The roses are blooming again, however, and the bees are humming all around the herb garden, getting ready for the colder seasons. But for now, my yard is a lovely place to sit with a book. Or a laptop, to write a bit.

This time out, I have the debut historical romance from Caroline Richards, The Deadliest Sin (Brava, received from publisher). Julia Woolcott has gone to a house party with her camera and equipment, only to find herself held prisoner by a most infuriatingly tight-lipped, and very attractive man. Alexander Strathmore has his own plans at the house party, and they definitely include the very innocent Julia. But they are both on the hunt for a dangerous and elusive man, which means that his original plans make take a turn. Their adventures start at the licentious house party and continue with them faking her death to avoid having to actually participate in intimate acts with the others there and escape from the location, yet only increasing the attraction they share, despite her reluctance to assist him with his plans. Then her sister is abducted, and Julia is even more determined to stop the villain they seek, no matter that she’ll put herself in more danger. The hardened and world-weary Strathmore falls quickly in love with the woman he was supposed to destroy, making it much more challenging for him to keep her safe from their enemies. Julia and Strathmore are a truly enjoyable way to spend a fall afternoon, whether sparring over their next move and her participation, or engaged in far more pleasurable activities. Strathmore is a yummy hero, dangerous and compelling, while still able to admit to his fear for her as well as his growing love. And Julia is more than a match for the adventurer, with her need to keep her family safe and her stubborn determination to see their plan through to the end, no matter the dangers. This is an author I believe historical readers are going to enjoy very much, and I hope her next book is as fantastic as this one. I’m borrowing four of Cupid’s five arrows for this one.

Until next time, happy reading!