This is a collection of very different stories based in a smuggling town. They range in steam from warm to hot, and include some same sex relationships. The excisemen make good villians, and the way the townspeople work together for the common good is inspiring. There are moments when I forgot that this was a ficticious tale, hoping to visit Swain Cove. The characters are diverse, and some show up in more than one story. Though all different, the writing styles mesh. This is a wonderfully diverting collection, a must-have for your romance library.
The Spy’s Second Chance - Renee Dahlia
Tobias and Hiram
Rejected by the man he loved, Tobias, the second son of a viscount had been gone from Swain Cove for eight years. Upon the death of his father, which was preceded by the death of Tobias’ older brother, and he returned to assume his role as viscount. An assignment from Captain Smith led him toset sail with Hiram, the man who had been his best friend, and his sister. This story has intrigue, a bit of history and the resolution of a romance hovering on the precipice for over eight years. It is well written, straightforward, interesting and entertaining.
The Catan of a Captain - LindaRae Sande
Edward and Catherine
Such a sweet story. Edward, a retired naval captain, has just purchased his ship at auction when he is met with a business proposition. Doing some research necessary to perform his new job, Edward ends up in Swain Cove at their candy shop where he meets Catherine. He is the man of her dreams….literally. This story gives us a lesson regarding the making of brandy as it takes us on a quick journey towards Catherine and .edward’s happily ever after. The characters are fun and they are a delightfully well suited couple.
A Scandalous Woman - Sonia Bellhouse
Kerensa and Jack
A healer, a spy and an exciseman all walked into the market…..This is a wonderful full of drama, danger, secrets and steam. Kerensa is a young healer in Swain Cove where she meets Jack, a mysterious newcomer who is helping the resident nobleman’s gardener. He is injured in an attack; she is pursued and bullied by an exciseman; her reputation has been ruined; he’s been called away on a mission, and everything is up in the air. This story has an exciting escape scene, a cagey grandmother and an oh so hot ending.
The Princess’s Smuggler - Celeste Barclay
Jemima (Jemma) and Benjamin (Ben)
This is a story with love at first sight; a major misunderstanding; multicultural marriages; a grudge holding earl; danger; twists, turns and surprises. It moves quickly, has lots of action and steamy moments. The characters range from rags to royalty, each having their own complexities and many having hidden agendas. This is quite an exciting tale!
The Exciseman and the Foundling - Maryanne Ross
Avar and Jowan
Jowan is an exciseman who is in Swain Cove trying to bring the smugglers to justice. He is desperate to get a promotion so that he will have enough money to take care of his physically challenged younger sister. What he finds is a tight lipped community and a woodland sprite named Avar, who captures his heart. This adventure is an awakening for Jowan. He reconnects with his Cornish roots, thwarts some unsavory characters, discovers the woman of his dreams, and finds the acceptance that he didn’t realize that he sorely needed. It is a story with impish moments, frightening incidents, heroic maneuvers, lovely kisses and some good old fashioned justice. Loved it!
The Spinster’s Secret Scoundrel - Carrie Lomax
Arabella (Bella) and Thierry
Poor Bella, anticipating her wedding night cost her her fiance and her family. Her uncle, an exciseman, set the exiled girl up in a cottage in Swain Cove, hoping that she would pass information along to him. Thierry Le Fantome, famous for his smuggling elusiveness, met Bella under unusual circumstances, and changed her life. He’s charming, playful and oh so alluring…and the perfect man to bring vitality back to Bella’s life. She fascinates him. This is a fun story with danger, conflict and steam. Sometimes, the bad guys make the best good guys!
Tabitha on the Road to Somewhere Else - Heidi Wessman Kneale
Tabitha and John
Tabitha met John when he scooped her up and helped her escape attacking geese. Both were smitten. Too bad she was a debutante and he was an estate manager. But the heart wants what the heart wants. This is a cute story with a very determined young lady and an eager and astute young man.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.