Love’s Perilous Road Anthology with Cerise Deland et al-review
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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 31, 2025
Travel, houseparties, smugglers, spies–and a mysterious highwayman. Who is the infamous Captain Moonlight? And how many lives will he change–for good or for ill?
Sir Westcott Steals a Heart , by Alina K. Field
One Good Wager Leads to Another , by Barbara Monajem
Charred Hope , by Caroline Warfield
Stolen Kisses , by Cerise DeLand
Love by Moonlight , by Elizabeth Ellen Carter
A Bend in the Road , by Jude Knight
My Gift to You, by Mary Lancaster
A Duke In Peril , by Meara Platt
Forever and Always , by Rue Allyn
Falling Into You , by Sherry Ewing
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REVIEW:
10 short stories (one by a favourite author of mine)
So…. Let’s start with ….
One Good Wager Leads to Another by Barbara Monajem
Thisbe Rose moves into the haunted cottage she inherited. She’s not afraid of ghosts, smugglers, and highwaymen—but she’s not so sure about the oddest housekeeper she’s ever seen.
Gervaise Transom wagers a friend he can spend months disguised as a housekeeper without being caught. When Thisbe moves into the haunted cottage, he should leave, to protect her reputation—but he also must stay, to keep her safe.
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REVIEW: “One Good Wager Leads to Another” by Barbara Monajem is a delightful romp filled with whimsical charm and intrigue. The story follows Thisbe Rose, a brave and spirited woman who moves into a cottage with a mysterious past, not quite prepared for the quirky challenges that come her way. With supernatural elements and the threat of dubious characters lurking about, Thisbe’s fears are mostly focused on the peculiar housekeeper who seems to have more secrets than the cottage itself.
Gervaise Transom, the housekeeper, adds a unique twist with his bold wager to remain undetected in disguise for months. His true intentions, however, shift when he finds himself drawn to Thisbe, leading to an engaging push and pull between duty, safety, and burgeoning romance.
The author weaves humor and heart into the story, balancing high stakes with lighthearted moments. The chemistry between Thisbe and Gervaise is slow to start, and their dialogue sparkles with wit. We find themselves immersed in a world where love and adventure intertwine, all cloaked in an air of mystery.
Overall, “One Good Wager Leads to Another” is a fun and enchanting read that invites you to embrace the unexpected, whether it be in haunting cottages or matters of the heart. Perfect for fans of cozy mysteries and romantic escapades!
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My Gift to You by Mary Lancaster
The young Marchioness of Corey comes from a family of expensive rakehells. The world knows she married the marquis for his money—a conclusion Corey reached the day after their wedding.Only, it was never true…
Attending the Normanton House party, each hopes for happiness. Only her wretched family gets in the way again, as does the local highwayman, and it seems their secret love is perpetually doomed…
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REVIEW: In “My Gift to You,” Mary Lancaster weaves a captivating tale of love, family expectations, and societal judgments.
The young Marchioness of Corey, trapped in a life of scandal and rumors, becomes the center of a story that is both heartwarming and fraught with tension.
The premise revolves around the widely held belief that her marriage to the Marquis is a mere transaction driven by wealth, a notion that the Marquis (Leopold) himself seems to accept.
As the duo attends the lavish Normanton House party, the story deepens. The author explores their relationship, revealing layers of emotion and desire that challenge initial perceptions. The tension escalates with the introduction of a local highwayman and the relentless interference of the Marchioness’s dysfunctional family, adding both intrigue and conflict.
The author’s writing is both engaging and tender, drawing us into the struggles faced by the characters. The blend of romance and societal critique keeps the story flowing, while the pacing builds anticipation for a happy ending.
Overall, “My Gift to You” is a delightful read that examines the true nature of love in a world quick to judge. The characters are relatable, and their journey is both poignant and entertaining, promising a satisfying escape into a historical romance filled with unexpected twists.
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Falling Into You by Sherry Ewing
Sometimes a memory is hard to forget… Milton Sutton, Earl of Langley has one regret in life… he left behind a lady who owned his heart. After a year’s absence, is he too late to win Lady Josephine Cranfield back or is she resolved to move on without him?
Lady Josephine Cranfield is determined to move on after her heart was broken by the love of her life. However, her feelings for Milton awaken upon his return, but his eagerness to pick up where they left off only makes her resolved to forget him.
Can Milton and Josephine find a way back to one another, or will someone else find his way into Josephine’s heart?”
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REVIEW: “Falling Into You” by Sherry Ewing is a journey of love, regret, and second chances that will delight fans of historical romance.
The story revolves around Milton Sutton, the Earl of Langley, who returns after a year apart from Lady Josephine Cranfield, the woman he left behind. His return reignites old feelings in Josephine, but her pain from the past creates a barrier that Milton must work to overcome.
The author explores the second chance trope, showing us the struggles both Milton and Josephine face in reconciling their past with their hopes for the future. Josephine’s determination to move on makes her a great character, while Milton’s regret and desire for redemption makes him a likeable hero.
The tension between the two, fueled by longing and misunderstandings, kept me reading as they navigate their relationship Set against a lush historical backdrop, the writing is rich and vivid, drawing us into the world of the characters.
“Falling Into You” is a beautifully written tale of love’s endurance and the belief that true connections can weather even the harshest of trials. It’s a captivating read for anyone looking to lose themselves in a romance filled with emotion and hope.
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Sir Westcott Steals a Heart by Alina K. Field
Sir Westcott Twisden didn’t know he wanted to marry until the tallest lady he’d ever met crossed his path. Curious when a local smuggler shows up to visit her, Wes follows her into trouble.
Sybil Dunsford lives to protect her brothers and their home. And so, one night she disguises herself as a boy to help shift contraband. But when the night goes array, Sir Westcott appears, and they’re locked in together. Will romance follow?
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REVIEW: “Sir Westcott Steals a Heart” by Alina K. Field is a delightful and adventurous Regency romance that brings together humor, intrigue, and charming characters.
The story follows Sir Westcott Twisden, who unexpectedly discovers his desire for marriage when he meets the spirited Sybil Dunsford. Sybil’s fierce protectiveness over her family leads her into the dangerous world of smuggling, and her clever disguise adds an exciting twist to the story.
The author does an excellent job of writing a vibrant romance set against the backdrop of adventure. The chemistry between Wes and Sybil is fun to read, with their banter and shared misadventures highlighting their growing attraction. The plot is fast paced, filled with unexpected twists that keep us on our toes. Sybil’s determination and bravery make her a compelling heroine, while Wes’s charm and protectiveness create a balance to her adventurous spirit.
Overall, “Sir Westcott Steals a Heart” is a charming escapade that combines romance with thrilling elements, making it a delightful read for fans of historical fiction who enjoy a good dose of humor and excitement.
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A Duke in Peril by Meara Platt
Lady Florence Swann’s quiet life is upended when she finds a handsome soldier wounded on the side of the road near Swann Hall, the country estate where she and her grandfather reside.
Captain James Ryder claims to be the Duke of Wellbourne’s emissary and carries a letter concerning a Foreign Office matter.
Is he more than he appears, and perhaps the duke himself?
Can Florence trust her heart to him?
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REVIEW: “A Duke in Peril” by Meara Platt is an enchanting Regency romance filled with suspense, wit, and unexpected twists. The story follows Lady Florence Swann, whose serene life at Swann Hall is disrupted when she discovers a wounded soldier, Captain James Ryder, on the road.
What unfolds is a tale of intrigue, as Ryder claims to be an emissary from the Duke of Wellbourne, leaving Florence and me, questioning his true identity. 🤔
Weaving together the themes of trust and deception, as Florence grapples with her feelings for James amid the uncertainty surrounding him. The chemistry between the two is electric, making their interactions both tender and thrilling. Florence’s character shines as a strong and independent woman who isn’t afraid to follow her instincts, while James is portrayed as a charming and mysterious figure.
The pacing is well balanced, mixing romantic tension with moments of suspense.
Overall, “A Duke in Peril” is a delightful blend of romance and mystery, perfect for fans of historical fiction who enjoy a tale of love tested by secrets and adventure. It’s a captivating read that leaves you eagerly turning the pages until the satisfying conclusion.
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Stolen Kisses by Cerise DeLand
When Lance Winters kissed Emma Tomkins pretending to be a highwayman years ago, she was ruined. Now she has a fortune—and vows to remain a spinster.
But Lance, newly retired from the army, wants Emma to laugh again…and love again. So he’ll dress up like a highwayman again.
But can he kiss some sense into her?
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REVIEW: “Stolen Kisses” by Cerise DeLand is a delightful Regency romance that blends humor, second chances, and a touch of mischief.
The story revolves around Lance Winters, who years ago ruined Emma Tomkins with an ill fated kiss while masquerading as a highwayman. Now, with a fortune in her pocket and a firm resolution to remain a spinster, Emma seems determined to shut herself off from love.
The author’s characters are wonderfully written, Emma is a great heroine, grappling with her past and the emotional scars left by that fateful kiss, while Lance is a charming and determined hero who is ready to fight for Emma’s heart. His plan to dress up as a highwayman once again adds an element to the plot, blending nostalgia with fresh romance.
The pacing is quick, with witty dialogue and moments of lighthearted banter that keep the story engaging.
Overall, “Stolen Kisses” is a charming, feel good read that captures the essence of romance.
Fans of historical romance will find themselves drawn into this enchanting tale, eager to see if Lance can indeed kiss some sense into Emma. And as this is one of my favourite regency romance writers, i couldn’t wait to read it.
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Charred Hope by Carolyn Warfield
Major Titus Brannock believes the charred painting that fell into his hands must be valuable to its owner.
When he finds her, he finds a true treasure. Tessa Fleming’s first instinct was to burn the miniature her late husband scorned, but the admiration she sees in Titus’s eyes gives her different ideas.
Perhaps the little gem will give them both a pearl beyond price.
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REVIEW: “Charred Hope” by Carolyn Warfield is a Regency romance that balances art, healing, and the discovery of a newfound love.
The story introduces Major Titus Brannock, who stumbles upon a charred painting that he believes holds hidden value. His journey to return the painting to its rightful owner leads him to Tessa Fleming, a widow grappling with her own grief and insecurities.
Themes of loss and redemption take a center stage, as Tessa contemplates destroying the miniature her late husband scorned, only to find hope and admiration in Titus’s eyes. (Maybe it’s not as bad as her husband made out?) and their blossoming romance is rooted in mutual respect and a shared journey toward acceptance and healing.
The writing is rich and vivid, painting a picture of the Regency era’s society whilst watching the characters’ emotional struggles. The pacing is well balanced, allowing for moments of reflection and tender romance, creating an engaging novella that kept me interested in their journey.
Overall, “Charred Hope” is a delightful blend of emotional depth and romantic charm, making it a heartwarming read for fans of historical romance.
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Love by Moonlight by Elizabeth Ellen Carter
Captain Robin Somerville lives a double life—naval officer by day, highwayman by night.
When Rachel Pendleton begins to suspect his secret, their shared sense of justice draws them closer.
Amid moonlit schemes and whispered truths, love blooms quietly between the shadows of propriety and the risk of ruin.
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REVIEW: “Love by Moonlight” by Elizabeth Ellen Carter is a romance that intertwines themes of adventure, secrecy, and moral dilemmas.
The story follows Captain Robin Somerville, a naval officer whose double life as a highwayman adds an intriguing layer of tension to the story. The dynamic between Robin and Rachel is electric, their shared sense of justice serves as a sturdy foundation for their growing bond.
The author explores the contrast between societies expectations and personal desires. I felt poor Robin’s internal feelings and all the conflict that came with it! The pacing is well thought out, balancing action and romance, leading to a satisfying conclusion that left me with a smile and a warm feeling. 😊
Overall, “Love by Moonlight” is a delightful read for those who enjoy historical romance with a dash of adventure. The writing was engaging, and the descriptions were vivid and detailed.
Highly recommended for fans of the genre!
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Forever and Always by Rue Allyn
She loved him then left him. Now he’s desperate to find her before secrets and deceptions can destroy them both.
They must unite and defeat their enemies in order to share love forever and always.
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REVIEW: “Forever and Always” by Rue Allyn is a tale of love, loss, and redemption.
The story revolves around a second chance romance, where Deoiridh and Fontus grapple with their past choices and the secrets that threaten their future together.
The author writes this story that’s filled with emotion. We watch as Fontus desperately searches for the woman he once loved, who left him under mysterious circumstances! The tension builds as their shared history comes to light, revealing layers of deception that could tear them apart once more.
The characters are well developed, each facing internal struggles that mirror the external conflicts they must confront together. The writing is vivid and engaging, making it easy to become involved in their journey toward healing and reunion.
With a blend of suspense, heartfelt moments, and rich historical detail, “Forever and Always” is a gripping read.
Highly recommended!
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A Bend in the Road by Jude Knight
Justin is not worthy of Lady Felicity Belvoir. He hadn’t needed her brother to point it out. Felicity is determined to marry Justin Weatherall, her brother be damned.
Now that she has found where he is living, she needs only to convince him.
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REVIEW: “A Bend in the Road” by Jude Knight is a delightful historical romance that captures the essence of determination and love against societies expectations.
The story centers around Lady Felicity Belvoir, who is resolute in her desire to marry Justin Weatherall, despite the disapproval of her brother and Justin’s own feelings of unworthiness.
The storytelling is rich and engaging, weaving together themes of self doubt, loyalty, and the power of love. Felicity emerges as a strong and independent heroine, willing to defy convention to follow her heart. Justin’s journey of self-discovery as he grapples with his sense of worthiness and the obstacles standing between them, made me like him immensely.
The chemistry between Felicity and Justin is electric, making their interactions both charming and conflict laden. The attention to detail and historical accuracy I felt was spot on.
Overall, “A Bend in the Road” is an enchanting read that shows us the lengths one will go for love and the importance of believing in oneself. With its well-developed characters and heartfelt story, it’s sure to captivate fans of historical romance.
Highly recommended for those who enjoy spirited heroines and sweeping tales of love!
I liked how we got to meet the gentleman conducting the search for the highwayman after each short story. I almost wanted a novella on his search 😂
Copy supplied for review
Reviews by Julie B 🦋
