The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen

 

Set in Victorian London from the Queen of Mystery Romance

Amelie Hampton is a hopeless romantic, which makes her the perfect columnist to answer lonely heart letters in The Marriage Gazette. When Amelie plays matchmaker with two anonymous lonely hearts, she also decides to secretly observe the couple’s blind date. To her surprise, the man who appears for the rendezvous is Harold Radcliffe—a grieving widower and a member of Amelie’s book club.

Police detective Michael Baker has been struggling ever since his best friend and brother-in-law died in the line of fire. Because he knows the dangers of his job, he has vowed never to marry and subject a wife and family to the uncertainty of his profession. But when he meets Miss Hampton, he is captured by her innocence, beauty, and her quick mind.

When a woman’s body is pulled from the river, Michael suspects the woman’s husband—Harold Radcliffe—of foul play. Amelie refuses to believe that Harold is capable of such violence but agrees to help, imagining it will be like one of her favorite mystery novels. Her social connections and clever observations prove an asset to the case, and Amelie is determined to prove Mr. Radcliffe’s innocence. But the more time Amelie and Michael spend together, the more they trust each other, and the more they realize they are a good team, maybe the perfect match.

They also realize that Mr. Radcliffe is hiding more than one secret, and when his attention turns toward Amelie, Michael knows he must put an end to this case before the woman he loves comes to harm.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

It's a Victorian murder mystery!  After a few years of steampunk/paranormal regency style mashup books from this author, we are delving into a new genre and I'm liking it!  A lot!

From the first pages I was interested which is always nice as a reader but what is even better?  When that interest grows with every page and you become more and more invested as the story progresses.  Things really ramped up in the last half of the book and by the end I was reading so quickly, desperate to find out how it would all work out.  I really love when that happens.

Amelie (I love that name) and Michael grew on me as I got to know them better.  I'm glad that Amelie didn't stay in her delusional world too long but quickly caught on so Michael could become the star of her show (and mine too!).  I would say that this book is slightly more plot driven but the characters were good and I really enjoyed it from start to finish.

I'm really hoping that this is the beginning of a new series involving the cousins who all are a part of this book.

Content:  some violence (murders) described in some detail.  Peril, kissing.

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Author:

NANCY CAMPBELL ALLEN is the award-winning author of eighteen published novels and several novellas, which encompass a variety of genres, ranging from contemporary romantic suspense to historical fiction. Her most recent books, which include Regency, Victorian, and steampunk romance, are published under Shadow Mountain’s Proper Romance brand, and the What Happens in Venice novella series is part of the Timeless Romance Anthology collection published by Mirror Press. She has presented at numerous conferences and events since her initial publication in 1999.

Nancy loves to read, write, travel, and research, and enjoys spending time with family and friends. She nurtures a current obsession for true crime podcasts and is a news junkie. She and her husband have three children, and she lives in Ogden, Utah, with her family, one very large Siberian Husky named Thor, and an obnoxious but endearing YorkiePoo named Freya.

Brass Carriages and Glass Hearts (Steampunk Proper Romance #4) by Nancy Campbell Allen + Win This Book!

 

 

Emmeline O’Shea is determined to save the world—single-handedly, if necessary. A strong voice for societal reform, she is the natural choice to deliver a key speech at the end of the International Shifter Rights Organization’s week-long Summit in Scotland.

But when a death threat arrives at Emme’s home, she is immediately placed into protective custody, watched over by none other than her personal nemesis, Detective-Inspector Oliver Reed. The two have crossed paths many times, with disastrous results, but now they will have to work together in order to reach the Summit before midnight of the last day in order to ensure legislation is passed to protect the Shifter community.

As unseen enemies close in around Emme and Oliver, they struggle to reach Edinburgh by any means necessary, only to find Emme’s vindictive stepsister, Oliver’s vampire brother, and a dangerous political minefield awaiting them in Scotland.

Even more difficult is their own refusal to admit that the fiery animosity that once burned between them might be turning into the heat of romantic passion. Could a straitlaced policeman determined to uphold the law and an outspoken activist willing to break the rules ever find true love? Or will all their dreams shatter like glass when the clock strikes midnight?

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book * 

I've been reading this series from the beginning and it's been so fun.  Steampunk allows for elements that other book genres don't have so it feels unique and different.  This series also has some paranormal elements with people known as "shifters".  This book and this series always feel like a breath of fresh air and a good change up from the regular genres I read.

Emme is a strong voice for shifter rights and she definitely makes her voice heard which earns her some nasty enemies.  Oliver and Emme have known each other for a long time as Oliver almost always puts an end to Emme's protests and gatherings when things turn violent.  As a result, Oliver and Emme have a rough start when Oliver is assigned to protect Emme.  They both slowly realize they don't know all that much about each other and it was fun to watch them learn more and come to new realizations.  These characters are well developed and I loved that both Emme and Oliver were strong, intelligent, passionate and courageous.  They were evenly matched in almost every way.

There is a bit of mystery, a bit of adventure and a growing romance.  It all worked together so well.  I also loved seeing characters from previous books appear in this book.  I don't think you have to read this series in order but you will probably be happier if you do.  Each book can stand alone though.  If you haven't ever read a steampunk book, I would highly recommend you try one.  You might be surprised at how much you like them.

Content:  mild peril, mild violence, death, kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

I happen to have an extra copy of this book that I want to give away!  Yay!!  This giveaway is for US residents only as I have to ship the book. 

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The Lady in the Coppergate Tower (Steampunk Proper Romance #3) by Nancy Campbell Allen

Hazel Hughes has spent her life believing she is a Medium—someone who can talk to ghosts. But as of yet, that skill has remained frustratingly elusive. She is also suffering from a reoccurring childhood dream of someone who looks almost exactly like Hazel, but this dream version of herself is slowly going mad.

Sam MacInnes is a talented surgeon who runs in the highest social circles thanks to his family’s position and history. When Sam hires Hazel to assist him with his medical practice, he is immediately drawn to her intelligence, wit, and beauty.

Their potential relationship is derailed one evening when a mysterious count arrives in London and reveals to Hazel the truth about her past: she was abducted at birth and her twin sister has fallen dangerously ill.

Hazel agrees to travel to Romania with Count Petrescu in order to save her sister, and Sam insists on accompanying her. The count has secrets, though, and the journey grows more sinister with every mile that draws Hazel closer to her homeland. Even as her feelings for Sam become deeper and more complicated, she fears she might not survive the quest to save her sister with her heart intact, not to mention her life. She must learn to draw on gifts she doesn’t know she has if they are going to ever return home again.

Hazel and Sam must fight their way past dark magic, clockwork beasts, and their own insecurities as they try to reach her sister in the impenetrable Coppergate Tower before time runs out.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

I think the thing I like most about this book and the others in this series is that it feels different to me.  When I start reading, I know I will get a story that isn't like all the others.  The light steampunk feel is fun and I love the creativity it allows the author to build up a world unlike the one I know.  While this book is based on Rapunzel, it really doesn't feel that way at all, which also makes me happy. 

This book has mystery, danger and a growing intensity that I really felt.  The darkness sort of hovered around everywhere, waiting to jump at me. It gave the story a bit of edge that I really liked. 

 Sam and Hazel are two intelligent, even tempered people.  They suit each other very well in their professions and as people falling in love.  I loved being right there with them as they research, learn and put all the clues together.  I think what I most appreciated was that even though they were smart, it was their intuition that they followed.  Those gut feelings should never be ignored.  Oh!  And I cannot forget Eugene!  He was definitely the comedic relief in this story.  He kept things entertaining and light which was a much needed balance to the heavier feel to other parts of the story.

Overall, this was a fun story.  I always love reading books by this author and can't wait to see what comes next!

Content:  dark magic, death, mild violence, kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Kiss of the Spindle (Steampunk Proper Romance #2) by Nancy Campbell Allen

A steampunk Sleeping Beauty story from the author of Beauty and the Clockwork Beast.

Doctor Isla Cooper is cursed. Literally. Each night, at the stroke of midnight she falls into a death-like sleep from which she cannot be awakened for six hours. To make it worse, the curse has an expiration date—after a year, it becomes permanent. And the year is almost up.

In a desperate attempt to find Malette—the witch who cursed her—Isla blackmails her way onto Daniel Pickett's private airship bound for the Caribbean, only to discover she's traveling with three illegal shapeshifters and the despicable Nigel Crowe, a government official determined to hunt down and exterminate every shapeshifter in England. Isla and Daniel must work together to keep the identities of the shapeshifters hidden while coming to terms with their own hidden secrets, and their blossoming attraction to each other.

Filled with suspense, intrigue, and plenty of romance, Kiss of the Spindle is steampunk Sleeping Beauty story. It is a race against the clock as Isla and Daniel try to hunt down the elusive Malette before Isla's death-like sleep becomes permanent.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * Deseret Book *

It took me a quick minute or two to get into this book but once I did, I was hooked.  I couldn't put it down.  The story builds and builds until by the end I was feeling quite frantic and desperate.  It was so exciting!  I love when that happens.

I love that Nancy Campbell Allen is writing these steampunk romances loosely based on classic fairy tales.  It gives everything such a fun twist.

The relationship and chemistry between Isla and Daniel was also one that kept building.  I loved the explosive first kiss (😍) but mostly I loved how devoted Daniel was to Isla once he learned how vulnerable she was because of her curse.  He was so sweet, so invested in her.  I just LOVED him.

Yup, this was a good one!  I'm so excited to see what's coming next!

Content:  some violence, kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

The Orient Express (Timeless Victorian Collection) by Elizabeth Johns, Annette Lyon, Nancy Campbell Allen

 

TO BREAK A BETROTHAL by Elizabeth Johns:
Recently orphaned heiress Kate Worthington must travel to England from her home in India to break an outdated betrothal contract. Surely the lure of money will tempt Lord Darlington to release her! A gentleman befriends her whilst she is aboard the luxurious Orient Express, and the attraction she feels firms her resolve to break the betrothal. What she does not count on is Lord Darlington’s hidden depths. She has so much to lose, least of which is her heart.

DETECTIVE GRACE MEETS HER MATCH by Annette Lyon:
Even private investigator Grace Thomas needs a vacation, yet she can’t exactly turn off her detective skills at a whim. Boarding the Orient Express might be a vacation for some, but Grace finds that her senses are on high alert. She prides herself in being one step ahead of any flirtatious gentlemen, and fellow passenger Marshall Bailey is no exception. When Grace discovers that Marshall is traveling under another name, she learns that her first impressions aren’t always correct, and that she’s mistakenly allowed him to play havoc on her heart. Marshall will just have to convince Grace to give him a second chance.

MARRIED ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS by Nancy Campbell Allen:
Detective Vincent Brady must recover a priceless statue before it falls into the wrong hands. The only problem is that the American woman who’s carrying it for her brother has no idea the value. Vincent catches up with Emily Grant, but convincing her that he’s not out to harm her or her brother is harder than Vincent expected. Finally, Emily agrees to travel with Vincent on the Orient Express, and they plot how to rescue her brother while keeping themselves out of harm’s way. Vincent soon discovers that out of all the hardships he’s overcome in his lifetime to rise to his current detective status, convincing Emily to take a chance on him even harder.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I love when a new book comes out in any of the Timeless Collections.  This one is set on the Orient Express and I loved the setting of a train and how each book felt the same in that way but different in the actual stories and writing styles.  I also love the variety of authors contributing to these books.  Each book has different authors making each one feel fresh and new.  

Overall I enjoyed these books!  The first book had such a sweet romantic progression.  I loved that as a reader, I knew things the characters didn't because watching them figure things out was so satisfying.  4 stars

The middle book got a little wordy for me, too much time in the characters heads, not enough dialogue and movement in the story.  I skimmed a bit and still understood everything so that one wasn't my favorite, but it was still good.  I loved that that Marshall was an author!  3 stars

The last book had some light intrigue, mystery and action which made the forward progression constant and I loved that.  It had me invested from the very beginning. 4 stars

Content:  clean, some mild peril and violence in the last book

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

 

Summer Holiday (Timeless Victorian Collection) by Nancy Campbell Allen, Annette Lyon, Sarah M. Eden

BREAKFAST AT SOMMERPOOL’S by Nancy Campbell Allen:
As Tessa Baker competes for the supervisor promotion at Sommerpool Department and Mercantile, she’s faced with a ridiculous list of tasks to complete in order to “win” the job. Tessa would love to be the first female supervisor ever to work at the Sommerpool, but her competitor is cheating at every turn. Discouraged, Tessa agrees to let David Bellini, a family friend and Italian Conte who is new in town, help her. When she discovers that he’s the new owner of Sommerpool’s, but wants to evaluate the employees unobserved, Tessa has mixed feelings. She soon realizes that she’s falling for David, but what chance does a working-class woman like her have with an Italian Conte?

HOWEVER LONG THE WAIT by Sarah M. Eden:
Carina Herrick says goodbye to the man she hopes to marry, knowing their separation will be temporary. Grant Ambrose is off to follow his dream and become established in business so that he can provide for Carina and a life together. He promises to write; she promises to return his letters. Yet, only a few months pass and already their letters become shorter and fewer. Finally, Carina is forced to give up on Grant if only to protect her breaking heart. Her parents are dead set against her becoming a spinster and insist she accept the proposal of the odious Mr. Baskon. With no hope of another marriage proposal, Carina is forced to make a difficult decision, one that can lead her either to happiness or misery.

THE LAST SUMMER AT IVY HOUSE by Annette Lyon:
Every summer Sarah travels to Ivy House in London as one of the household servants to the Millington family. This summer, she’s particularly looking forward to seeing Jacob, a servant who lives at Ivy House year-round. They’ve been exchanging letters since the previous summer when their friendship deepened. But when Sarah arrives at Ivy House, Jacob seems more reserved around her and less forthcoming. Has she put greater meaning in their budding relationship than she should? When Sarah discovers that Jacob has a dark secret and wants her to give up her dreams in exchange for helping him, she’s not sure if she’s willing to make the sacrifice.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

Three fantastic authors have come together in this book to provide three sweet, romantic stories.  I love these collections because you get a taste of different authors and their different writing styles.  If you haven't read anything by one or more of these authors, this is a great introduction but if you are like me and have read books by all of these authors, then it is simply an awesome treat and one I devoured from beginning to end.  

This was an awesome era where women were courageously stepping out of some of the confines of society and learning to go after their own dreams.  Tessa really exemplifies this in Breakfast at Sommerpool's.  I loved Tessa's pluck and determination.  She was a fantastic character.  This was probably my favorite story of the three but they were, all three, so great.  It's such a treat to pick up one of these Timeless series books (and there are a lot to choose from if you haven't read any yet!) and be swept away into the sweet romance of it all.  What a fantastic diversion!

Content:  Clean, mild romance

- I received a copy of this book for free.  All opinions expressed are my own.

The Secret of the India Orchid (Proper Romance) by Nancy Campbell Allen + Win This Book!!

Anthony Blake is in love with his best friend's sister, Sophia Elliot. But his plans to court her are put on hold when he is forced to resume his role as an undercover spy for the Crown. A secret document listing the names of the entire network of British spies-including his own-has been stolen. To protect Sophia, Anthony cuts off all ties to her and exchanges his life as an honorable earl for the façade of a flirtatious playboy.

Heartbroken and confused, Sophia travels to India, hoping to find healing in one of the most exotic regions of the British Empire. But the exotic land isn't as restful as she had hoped. Instead, she finds herself embroiled in a mystery of a missing sea captain, a possible murder, and a plot that could involve the prince of India. And when Anthony appears at the British Residency, asking questions and keeping his distance from her, she is stunned.

She still loves him, and, in her heart, she knows he loves her too. But how can she rebuild her relationship with him if he won't confide in her? Does she dare offer her heart to him a second time, or will their love be lost under the India sun?

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

I really do love the Proper Romance line from Shadow Mountain.  This book is an excellent addition to this collection and I just love Nancy Campbell Allen's writing.

This book is set in India during the regency era.  Yes, this is a romance but it's got some swirling intrigue as well.  There are secrets everywhere and Sophia is caught in the middle of them all and she doesn't even know it!  Well, eventually she does.  And then she is in trouble!

Poor Anthony.  His heart beats and yearns for Sophia but hello?  Spy?  Yeah, that puts a damper on the whole I love Sophia thing.  It was rather fun watching him squirm and clench his jaw and fist his hands in frustration as he watched and interacted with Sophia.  There was some good tension and build up between the two of them.

AND because today is my lucky day, AND because it's Romance Awareness Month, AND because Shadow Mountain is completely awesome. . . I get to give away a paperback copy of this book!  YAY!!!!!!  (I'm just a little bit excited about this)

Shadow Mountain is have a  Proper Romance Anniversary Facebook party on Friday, August 4th!  Chat with the authors and win prizes!  You can find the details here:  https://www.facebook.com/events/256852658164791/

You must be 13 or older to enter.  This giveaway is for US residents only due to postage.  

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From Cairo, With Love (Timeless Romance Single Book 1) by Nancy Campbell Allen

FROM CAIRO, WITH LOVE: A brand new historical romance novella from bestselling author Nancy Campbell Allen.

Valentine Baker longs for adventure, so when the opportunity comes to travel to Venice and be a companion for the unconventional Contessa, she takes it--but they don’t stay in Venice long. Valentine finds herself on a ship bound for Cairo so the Contessa can hunt down a thief at one of her archaeological digs there. Before they ever get close to the coast of Egypt, however, the ship is threatened by a violent storm and someone has an ulterior motive for sticking close to the Contessa and her traveling companions.

Mr. Maxwell is assigned to protect the Contessa and the charming Valentine. He tries to keep his distance, but her warm nature and easy laugh draw him in. He soon comes to cherish their time together, until someone attempts to drug him, and the aftermath reveals serious consequences for Valentine. He’ll do anything to keep her safe and her reputation intact, yet with treachery on board and his heart at stake, Mr. Maxwell must make a choice that will change his life forever. Can he win the woman of his dreams or will whoever wants to hurt them get close enough to take away his one chance for love?

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I really loved this new novella by Nancy Campbell Allen!  It was so well developed for only 90 or so pages.  The characters were vibrant and full of life and I could so easily visualize each one.  Sometimes when I reach the end of a novella, I long for more but with this story I was completely content at the end.  It was so good!

I love this new idea of novella singles from the Timeless Romance series.  This novella releases on November 1st, which is only a few days away!  I can't wait to see what book and which author is up next!

Content:  Clean!

-I received a copy of this book for free.  A favorable review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.

Beauty and the Clockwork Beast by Nancy Campbell Allen

Jane Eyre meets Beauty and the Beast.

When Lucy Pickett arrives at Blackwell Manor to tend to her ailing cousin, Kate, she finds more than she bargained for. A restless ghost roams the hallways, werewolves have been reported in the area, and vampires lurk across the Scottish border. Lord Miles himself is clearly hiding a secret. He is brash and inhospitable, and does not take kindly to visitors—even one as smart and attractive as Miss Pickett. He is unsettled by the mysterious deaths of his new wife, Clara, and his sister, Marie. Working together, Miles and Lucy attempt to restore peace to Blackwell Manor. But can Lucy solve the mystery of Miles? Can she love the man—beast and all?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

I have been anxiously waiting to read this book.  It's been sitting on my shelf for awhile now, staring at me, begging to be read.  :)  I was so happy to finally settle in and get to read it.  I've been so curious about it.  This book is a combination of so many genres- steampunk, paranormal, mystery, romance.  It really does have a Jane Eyre slash Beauty and the Beast feel to it.  There is something dark and edgy about it while also being romantic and sweet.  It's so hard to explain but I can honestly say I've never read anything quite like it!

This book is thick!  Good and long.  All the details are meaty and full of depth.  I think I would have loved this book simply as a paranormal romance but the steampunk aspect brought in a whole new dimension.  It was worked in seamlessly and made the whole story feel like something new and exciting.  What a clever idea!

I enjoyed this book from beginning to end.  The pacing was good- especially in the second half of the book where things really pick up.  I was compelled to continue reading and reluctant to put it down.  What a fun adventure this book is!  I hope I get more books like this- there are a few other characters in this book that definitely need their stories told.

Content:  Some mild gore/violence.  Clean!

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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My Fair Gentleman by Nancy Campbell Allen

In this Regency twist of My Fair Lady, Jack would rather be at sea than fixing the mistakes of his grandfather, the late Earl of Stansworth. Instead, he finds that inheriting his grandfather's wealth and title—and securing the welfare of his sister and mother—means joining the ranks of high society and living with the aristocracy. Luckily, Ivy Carlisle, the granddaughter of a dear friend of Jack's late grandmother, is willing to teach him etiquette and properly introduce him into society. Jack soon learns that his challenge isn't surviving his new lifestyle but surviving the conspiracies against him—as well as keeping himself from falling madly in love with his new tutor.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I'm so, so happy to be a part of reading and reviewing the Proper Romance line from Shadow Mountain this year!  There are some fantastic books coming and well, it just makes me happy.  Nancy Campbell Allen starts this year off perfectly with her regency twist on My Fair Lady.  

In this story, the roles are reversed and Lady Ivy has embarked on a daring quest to help the new Earl of Stansworth adjust to his title and responsibilities.  It is a daunting task because the new Earl (Jack) doesn't want any part of what lies ahead.

Ivy is a lively, kind and intelligent lady but suppressed by the ridiculous rules of society.    Her new task in helping the Earl and his family gives her life and purpose.  I love how kind Ivy is, how gently she deals with people.  Her own experiences give her compassion.

Jack is angry and defiant to begin the story.  He lashes out frequently but his storm cannot withstand Ivy's calm.  His transformation is quite satisfying.  

This book is romance but it has a bit of intrigue as well.  Someone is out to kill Jack and so it lends another layer to the story.  I am so hoping that Jack's sister has the next story.  I sense some fun things happening for her!

I loved this book.  It was all things happy to me.  

Content:  Clean!