The Hesitant Heiress by Dawn Crandall

I have been wanting to read this author's books for quite awhile. Finally got to do just that. This book was the first in the Everstone Chronicles. I really loved reading it. It is full of depth. Not just a fluff piece, but something you really have to take time to think about. I love those kinds of books. This is a story of Amaryllis who, I will tell you, will frustrate you a time or two throughout the book. She has lived a rather sheltered life and does not believe that she will ever be good enough. So, she has talked herself into spinsterhood and a life without love. She also lives with a ton of guilt about her mother's death that weighs her down on a daily basis. Although the man of her dreams continues to try to convince her that he really does care about her, she just cannot believe him. I wanted to just sit her down and have a talk with her!! Then I wanted to scream at her, but then hug her because she is so damaged and adorable. You will love her and that will take over the fact that at some points you want to choke her! There is a fair amount of mystery in this story also, which I adore. You are never really sure who the bad guy is until he reveals himself. It is a well written, intriguing, frustrating, wonderful story that I encourage you to read. While you are doing that, Amaryllis and I are scheduled to have tea. :)

The Reluctant Duchess by Roseanna M. White

So, I got this book free from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. Well, honestly... I LOVED it! It is the second book in a series and the frustrating thing for me was that I HAD the first book, but did not realize it was a series. I was like... Should I go back and read the first one? I decided not to and I must say that Roseanna White did such a good job of incorporating enough of the first story that I was not at all lost. I was so impressed with her writing. This story really gets to your heart. The entire time I was reading it I kept thinking of poor Rowena. What will she do? Will she make the right choice? Even while not reading, she was always on my mind. This book does have a sensitive subject of abuse. The author says that she has never suffered abuse and I am so glad, but I was captivated by how she understood the feelings and emotions that go along with it so vividly. This is a great story and keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat throughout. I know you will enjoy it as much as I did. Thank you, Bethany House and Roseanna White for a great read!