Millstone of Doubt (Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries #2) by Erica Vetsch from Kregel Publications

My thoughts: This story is set during an explosive time in mankind's progressive history. The poor and working class are furious and given to festering outrage, destruction, and protest over the encroaching industrial revolution that will rob them of their ability to earn a living. Machines replacing people. Hence the poor get poorer while the wealthy get richer.

It is a time when gentlemen and gentle ladies, the dukes and earls, set the social mores and rules of social engagement. It is also the story of a poor boy, now grown, who has been the recipient of an unknown benefactor providing him with a life of ease, education, acceptance, good clothes, a good life.

The story also is about solving the mystery of a suspected mill's destruction and coincidental murders that take place in the environs.

The source of all this mystery, mayhem, and murder was hidden until it was reveal near the end of the book. Good job of keeping this reader wondering. The Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries are quite enjoyable reading and Erica Vetsch always has a way with Regency stories that capture our hearts.

About the book: Regency London's detective duo is back on a new case--and this one is going to be a killer Caught in the explosion of the Hammersmith Mill in London, Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann rushes to help any survivors only to find the mill's owner dead of an apparent gunshot.

Even though the owner's daughter, Agatha Montgomery, mourns his death, it seems there are more than a few people with motive for murder. But Daniel can't take this investigation slow and steady. Instead, he must dig through all the suspects as quickly as he can, because the clock is ticking until his mysterious patronage--and his job as a runner--comes to an abrupt and painful end. It seems to Daniel that, like his earthly father, his heavenly Father has abandoned him to the fates.

Lady Juliette Thorndike is Agatha's bosom friend and has the inside knowledge of the wealthy London ton to be invaluable to Daniel. She should be in a perfect position to help with the case. Still, her instructor in the art of spy craft orders her to stay out of the investigation. But circumstances intervene, dropping her into the middle of the deadly pursuit.

When a dreadful accident ends in another death on the mill floor, Daniel discovers a connection to his murder case--and to his own secret past. Now he and Juliette are in a race to find the killer before his time runs out.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publications on behalf of the author to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Lost in Darkness by Michelle Griep (Barbour Publishing)

My thoughts:  Set in 1815 London, the story is that of a naval surgeon who seeks a medical practice and so joins with experienced Mr. Peckwood. (Note: doctors of this era are referred to as Mr. and not Dr.). Soon after he has invested his entire fortune in the practice, he discovers that Mr. Peckwood is not the sort of doctor with which he wishes to be involved. 

 And then there is the "spinster," Amelia, who is a writer about travels and destinations. Her brother is a recluse because of a major physical impairment. Their lives change direction when Amelia receives news her father has died.

The connection between surgeon Graham Lambert and Amelia is made when Amelia's brother, Colin, becomes a patient of Mr. Peckwood.

Peckwood is an unsavory man with misguided intentions and unearthly scruples. We must remember this was 1815 and the practice of medicine was often quite barbaric. 

A couple of other delightful characters..... the little boy, "Nemo," the bossy maid, and the sickly "Ms. Bog." They all add  delight to this story.

I really enjoy the writing style of Michelle Griep and she did not disappoint in Lost in Darkeness. I do not consider this a "Gothic" tale as much as I do a story of misguided intentions and unscrupulous character. The darkness is there in the story, but it is not horrific such as a true Frankenstein story. It is interesting that the author has placed a neighbor to Amelia as the namesake of the author of the famous Frankenstien stories.

About the Book: Enchanting Regency-Era Gothic Romance Intertwined with Inspiration from Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. 

Travel writer Amelia Balfour’s dream of touring Egypt is halted when she receives news of a revolutionary new surgery for her grotesquely disfigured brother. This could change everything, and it does. . .in the worst possible way.

Surgeon Graham Lambert has suspicions about the doctor he’s gone into practice with, but he can’t stop him from operating on Amelia’s brother. Will he be too late to prevent the man’s death? Or to reveal his true feelings for Amelia before she sails to Cairo?

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

The Noble Guardian by Michelle Griep [Giveaway - 3 Winners USA]

My thoughts:  This fast paced Regency story guides the reader through the peril of travel along the heaths of the English countryside in the early 1800s. The usual was danger of highwaymen (thieves, murderers, meaness of the worst sort); but as this story unfolds, it is revealed that the most notorious of highwaymen is roaming the heaths.

So for two young ladies, a young lady of station and her maid, to embark in only a simply unguarded coach was the worst type of risk. And sure enough, trouble found them. They were miraculously rescued by Captain Thatcher; and after much persuasion, he became their travel "guardian."

As they traveled encountering numerous dangers, being wounded, and sorely tested, they also found God. Rather, Captain Thatcher found his faith in God through the sweet faith of the lady, Abigail Gilbert. And in doing so, this guardian who has been so strong and noble in protecting Abigail, finds that the truest and best guardian is God.

Abigail Gilbert is journeying to meet her soon-to-be husband who is a noble man, a baronet. She finds, though, that he is not what she desires nor what she believes God wants for her.

This is a delightful story and a joy to read.

About the Book: A Cross-Country Trip through Regency England Brings Intrigue, Rogues, and High Adventure

The must-read conclusion to Michelle Griep’s Bow Street Runners Trilogy: Life couldn’t be better for Abigail Gilbert—but it’s been a long time coming. Having lived with a family who hated her, love is finally within reach. Abby sets off on a journey across England to marry one of the most prestigious gentleman bachelors in the land—until highwaymen upset her plans and threaten her life.

Horse patrol captain Samuel Thatcher arrives just in time to save Abby. But to him she’s simply another victim in a job he’s come to despise. Tired of the dark side of humanity, he intends to buy land and retire.

Abby pleads with him to escort her on the rest of her journey. He refuses until she offers him the thing he desperately needs to achieve his goal: money. Delivering her safely will earn him more than enough to settle into a quiet life.

So begins an impossible trek for the cynical lawman and the proper lady. Each will be indelibly changed by the time they reach her betrothed, if they don’t kill one another first—or fall in love.

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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winners' copies will be provided and mailed directly to the winner by the publisher.

Dangerous to Know by Megan Whitson Lee [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts: Few readers of classic romantic era poetry such as that of Lord Byron know much at all about the lives of the poets and what shaped the poets to become the gifted individuals that brought enduring poetry forth. Such is the case of Lord Byron who wrote such classics as "She Walks in Beauty."

Megan Whitson Lee pursued writing this novel for a couple of decades finally bring forth a work of fiction based on Lord Byron. Her protagonist is Lord Gregory Bromby and he is undoubtedly the most villainous man I have ever "met" though surely there are others. His mind and spirit are dark, mean, uncaring, violent and yet he pursues the lovely Isabella for two main reasons.

He needs to redeem himself in the eyes of society and he needs to marry someone who has money so he can settle his debts. 

This is a book with a strong Christian message warning against marriage to someone who doesn't share your faith or who doesn't believe in God. There is danger in that union. It is also a story of darkness, devious living, and desperation. One can conclude that Lord Bromby was mentally unstable and his behavior certainly attests to that. The author has painted a word picture of an ill conceived marriage, and violent relationship, and a turbulent clashing of personalities. 

This is a well written book and I found myself researching Lord Byron to see how much might be fiction and how much was the reality of the man. Interesting. Frightening. Revealing. A good read.

About the book: (author's version of Lord Byron's story)

“Don’t look at him, dear. He’s dangerous.”

Isabella Bankmill seeks a husband whose character matches her list of requirements. The man must share her faith, but he must also possess a certain je ne sais quoi. The enigmatical Lord Gregory Gordon Bromby—London’s newest literary sensation—certainly possesses the latter. Despite a deformed foot and alarming views on politics and religion, he attracts the ladies in droves.

Haunted by his past and overwhelmed by his newfound celebrity status, Lord Bromby’s obsession with his own doom leads to reckless behavior. When he is stalked by an obsessive aristocrat seeking an elopement, Bromby’s friends urge him to marry a suitable lady as soon as possible. Intrigued by Isabella’s convictions, and hoping to avoid further scandal, Bromby proposes to Isabella.

Isabella also receives an offer of marriage from kind-hearted philanthropist, David Beringer—a man equally devoted to his faith—but she only has eyes for Lord Bromby. Blinded by his talent and good looks, Isabella convinces herself that he’s not as dangerous as everyone claims. But when Bromby’s world violently collides with hers, Isabella must decide once and for all who is lord of her life. God or Bromby?

About the author: Megan Whitson Lee is an anglophile and a recovering runaway. Over the years, she escaped to England and Australia before finally settling down in the US. These days, she lives a relatively quiet life as a wife, a mom of two greyhounds, an editor for Pelican Book Group, and a high school English teacher. She now escapes by writing novels instead of jumping on planes to foreign countries. Her novel, Captives, won the 2016 Director's Choice Award and was a finalist for a Selah Award in the women's contemporary fiction category at Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference.

Megan writes women's contemporary thrillers and historical fiction featuring characters standing at the crossroads of major life decisions. Author's Website: www.meganwhitsonlee.com

Watch for Chat With Vera's review on July 15!

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Publicist "I Read with Audra," the author, and publisher have graciously provided a copy for this giveaway. One of Chat With Vera's readers will be selected via the Rafflecopter Entry System.

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace book #3 by Carolyn Miller

ISBN: 9780825444524|
$14.99 | Paperback
Kregel Publishing

My thoughts: Delving into the pages of Austin style prose of a Carolyn Miller Regency period novel is like journeying back in time where social mores were rigid and social position steeped in tradition and expectations. Miss Clara DeLacey is a young lady born of well placed social standing whose conduct in a previous book in the Legacy of Grace series was dubious and placed her in a position of dishonor. Hence..... The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey.

True that by today's standards her behavior was quite acceptable. In the year 1815 it certainly was not and placed her character in question and her hopes for a grand marriage quite dim.

The story's male lead is quite the honorable and trustworthy hero of military fame. His faith and trust in God is strong just as is his personal strength and character. It is quite interesting to read the exchanges and interactions of Clara and Ben.

The thread of faith was woven beautifully throughout the story as those of strong faith encourage others to exercise faith in God and to be willing to follow God's leading for their lives.

Mention of previous characters in the Legacy of Grace Regency Series - some involved with the story's action in The dishonorable Miss DeLancey and some back story mentions - connects this concluding book in the series nicely to the previous two. It is nice to read the books in correct sequence, but not necessary for the story to be enjoyed.

About the book: Will a damaged reputation and desire for society's approval thwart the legacy of grace?

Tainted by scandal and forced to leave London for the quieter Brighton countryside, the Honorable Miss Clara DeLancey is a shadow of her former society self. She's lost the man she loved to another and, in a culture that has no patience for self-pity, is struggling with depression. A chance encounter brings her a healing friendship with the sisters of an injured naval captain. But Clara's society mama is appalled at the new company she's keeping.

Captain Benjamin Kemsley is not looking for a wife. But his gallant spirit won't let him ignore the penniless viscount's daughter--not when she so obviously needs assistance to keep moving forward from day to day. Can he protect his heart and still keep her safe?

When they're pushed into the highest echelons of society at the Prince Regent's Brighton Pavilion, this mismatched couple must decide if family honor is more important than their hopes. Can they right the wrongs of the past and find future happiness together--without finances, family support, or royal favor?

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey is full of the captivating, flawed characters, fascinating historical details, and masterful writing that Carolyn Miller's fans have come to know in The Elusive Miss Ellison and The Captivating Lady Charlotte. If you love Lori Wick, Georgette Heyer, and other clean, wholesome Regency romance, you'll love this third book in the Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace series.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

The Captivating Lady Charlotte (Regency Brides, A Legacy of Grace) By Carolyn Miller from Kregel Publications

My thoughts: It was a delight to crack the spin of this second book in the Regency Brides, A Legacy of Grace series by Carolyn Miller. The book is relatively short but certainly not short on enjoyment. Sometimes a story is seemingly endless as it nears or surpasses 400 pages. This delightful read is right at 300 pages and is just right.

The pace is gentle but does not drag. The story is gentle and yet lively. The characters perfect for the time and social standing. It is quite enjoyable to read how gentlemen and ladies conducted themselves in early 1800s English society. And it was very nice to read a bit about the lead characters in the first book of the series and their interaction with the Lady Charlotte family.

This is Christian fiction and a book that I could easily hand to a teen or a grandmother to read and feel comfortable. While romantic interludes occur, they are within the bounds of propriety both to the social era and to Christian morals. Simply stated, this is a good book and I am most certainly looking forward to the next in the series.

Carolyn Miller is an author to watch and await new works.

About the book: Her heart is her own—but her hand in marriage is another matter

Lady Charlotte Featherington is destined for great things on the marriage market. After all, as the beautiful daughter of a marquess, she should have her pick of the eligible nobility hen she debuts. She, however, has love at the top of her list of marriageable attributes. And her romantic heart falls hard for one particularly dashing, attentive suitor. Sadly for Charlotte, her noble father intends her betrothed to be someone far more dull.

William Hartwell may be a duke, but he knows he was Charlotte's father's pick, not the young lady's own choice. And the captivating Lady Charlotte does not strike him as a woman who will be wooed by his wealth or title. While she has captured his heart, he has no idea how to win hers in return--and the betrayal and scandal his first wife put him through makes it difficult for him to believe that love can ever be trusted. His only hope is that Charlotte's sense of responsibility will win out over her romantic notions.

Can a widowed duke and a romantically inclined lady negotiate a future and discover love beyond duty? Will they be able to find healing and hope from the legacy of grace? Poignant and charming, this is another beautifully written, clean, and wholesome Regency romance from Carolyn Miller.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishing to facilitate a reviewed which is freely given. Opinions expressed are solely my own.