Review: The Rogue Hearts Series by Donna Hatch

The Stranger She Married by Donna Hatch

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blurb: 

When her parents and twin brother die within weeks of each other, Alicia and her younger sister are left in the hands of an uncle who has brought them to financial and social ruin. Desperate to save her family from debtor's prison, Alicia vows to marry the first wealthy man to propose. She meets the dashing Lord Amesbury, and her heart whispers this is the gentleman she is destined to love, but his tainted past may forever stand in their way. Her choices in potential husbands narrow to a scarred cripple with the heart of a poet, or a handsome rake with a deadly secret. 

Cole Amesbury is tormented by his own ghosts and believes he is beyond redemption, yet he cannot deny his attraction for the girl whose genuine goodness touches the heart he'd thought long dead. He fears the scars in his soul cut so deeply that he may never be able to offer Alicia a love that is true. When yet another bizarre mishap threatens her life, Alicia suspects the seemingly unrelated accidents that have plagued her loved ones are actually a killer's attempt to exterminate every member of her family. Despite the threat looming over her, learning to love the stranger she married may pose the greatest danger...to her heart. And Cole must protect Alicia from the killer who has been exterminating her family before she becomes the next target. 

My Review: 

The Stranger She Married is the start of Donna Hatch’s series, Rogue Hearts. I enjoyed this book. It has a lot I love to read in a story: romance, history, mystery, suspense and lessons on overcoming grief, how to forgive, and redeeming oneself. I admired Alicia‘s strength, bravery, and determination. I thought her and Cole had perfect chemistry together.

I give The Stranger She Married five stars. I look forward to continuing the Rogue Hearts series. 

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my honest opinion. 

The Guise of a Gentleman by Donna Hatch

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blurb: 

Though her heart longs for adventure, Elise strives to be a perfect English lady within the stifling confines of society for the sake of her impressionable young son. Her quiet world is shattered when she meets the impulsive and scandalous Jared Amesbury. His roguish charm awakens her yearning for adventure. But his irrepressible grin and sea-green eyes hide a secret. A gentleman by day, a pirate by night, Jared must complete one last assignment for the Secret Service before he can be truly free. Elise gives him hope that he, too, can find love and belonging. His hopes are crushed when his best laid plans go awry and Elise is dragged into his world of violence and deceit. She may not survive the revelation of Jared's past...or still love him when the truth is revealed. 

This romantic story of loss and betrayal, forgiveness and redemption, and strangers marrying, will leave you laughing, crying, and swooning. Sprinkled liberally with suspense, mystery, and heart-melting kisses, this is not your ordinary historical tale of an arranged marriage nor of redeeming the rakes. Fans of Victorian and Regency Eras as well as those seeking clean and wholesome romance with plenty of chemistry will love this story!

My Review: 

The second installment from Donna Hatch's Rogue Hearts series, The Guise of a Gentleman, is a great read. This clean romance includes, mystery and suspense, that will, also, toy with a reader’s emotions. I found myself giggling at times and being brought to tears at other times. I loved Jared and Elise’s story.

The Guise of a Gentleman gets five stars from me. I can not wait to read the third addition from the Rogue Hearts series.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion. 

A Perfect Secret by Donna Hatch

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blurb:

Desperate to protect her father from trial and death, Genevieve breaks off her engagement with Christian Amesbury and marries a blackmailer. After a year of marriage, she flees her husband's violent domination only to have fate bring her back to Christian. Just when she thinks she's started a new life of safety and solitude, her husband tracks her down, stalks her, and threatens everyone she loves.

Still brokenhearted over Genevieve's betrayal a year ago, Christian can't believe she's come back into his life--and worse, that she's done it on the anniversary of his brother's death, a death that haunts him. Though tempted to throw her back into the river where he found her, he can't leave her at the mercy of the terrifying man she married.

When her husband torments Genevieve and puts the Amesbury family in danger, Christian will do anything to protect those he loves...anything except give Genevieve another chance to break his heart. 

My Review:

A Perfect Match, the third book from Donna Hatch’s Rogue Hearts series, is an exciting addition to the series. I enjoyed Genevieve and Christian’s story. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat and I had to keep reading on until I finished the whole book.

I am giving A Perfect Match five stars. I am looking forward to the fourth installment from the Rogue Hearts series. Readers who enjoy clean historical romance will love this one.

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion. 

The Suspect's Daughter by Donna Hatch

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blurb:

Determined to help her father with his political career, Jocelyn sets aside dreams of love. When she meets the handsome and mysterious Grant Amesbury, her dreams of true love reawaken. But his secrets put her family in peril. 

Grant goes undercover to capture conspirators avowed to murder the prime minister, but his only suspect is the father of a courageous lady who is growing increasingly hard to ignore. He can’t allow Jocelyn to distract him from the case, nor will he taint her with his war-darkened soul. She seems to see past the barriers surrounding his heart, which makes her all the more dangerous to his vow of remaining forever alone. 

Jocelyn will do anything to clear her father’s name, even if that means working with Grant. Time is running out. The future of England hangs in the balance...and so does their love. 

My Review:

The Suspect’s Daughter is the fourth installment from Donna Hatch’s series, Rogue Hearts. This is my favorite of the series to date. I felt a connection to Jocelyn right the start. I loved it when she was Grant. The action, adventure, mystery, suspense and romance were a perfect combination to the story.

I give The Suspect’s Daughter five plus stars. I am excited to find out that there is a fifth book in the Rogue Hearts series. I can not wait to find out what happens next.

Great read!

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my honest opinion.

View all my reviews

Romance Is In The Air and Giveaway: Donna Hatch

 

The Stranger She Married by Donna Hatch

 When her parents and only brother die within weeks of each other, Alicia and her younger sister are left in the hands of an uncle who has brought them all to financial and social ruin. Desperate to save her family from debtor’s prison, Alicia vows to marry the first wealthy man to propose. She meets the dashing Lord Amesbury, and her heart whispers that this is the man she is destined to love, but his tainted past may forever stand in their way. Her choices in potential husbands narrow to either a scarred cripple with the heart of a poet, or a handsome rake with a deadly secret. Cole Amesbury is tormented by his own ghosts, and believes he is beyond redemption, yet he cannot deny his attraction for the girl whose genuine goodness touches the heart he’d thought long dead. He fears the scars in his soul cut so deeply that he may never be able to offer Alicia a love that is true. When yet another bizarre mishap threatens her life, Alicia suspects the seemingly unrelated accidents that have plagued her loved ones are actually a killer’s attempt to exterminate every member of her family. Despite the threat looming over her, learning to love the stranger she married may pose the greatest danger of all, a danger to her heart. 

 

 “…. The intrigue held me spellbound until the very end and it was an unexpected ending. I will definitely be looking for more…”– Excerpt from Night Owl Romance “I don’t think I have ever read dialog that is quite so fresh, varied and robust to the point that it is not only woven seamlessly into the plot, but it almost becomes a living, breathing thing in itself.” -excerpt from Hope Chest Reviews ” No one creates chemistry between Regency Historical characters better than Donna Hatch. If you want a “sweet” read, but with lots of sizzle, you have to read one of her books.” ~ Carol A. Spradling   

Mrs. Hancock beamed as Alicia reached her side, put an arm around Alicia, and brought her into their circle. “Miss Alicia Palmer, allow me to introduce Lord Amesbury.” Even more devastating up close, Lord Amesbury turned to her. His piercing blue eyes threatened the strength in her knees. Though taller than most ladies, Alicia still had to look up to meet his gaze. No other color existed in those eyes; no green or gray, only deep, dark blue, like the fathomless depths of the ocean. All the other men she had met lately, namely those her uncle insisted she consider for a husband, had taken careful note of her figure. But this gentleman only looked into her eyes. Very deeply. Lord Amesbury inclined his head. “Miss Palmer.” His resonant, bass voice touched her very soul. Alicia met his frank gaze and a sensation she did not quite understand stirred within her until breathing became a conscious effort. Mrs. Hancock discreetly coughed, and Alicia realized she’d been locked in eye contact with the Viscount much longer than appropriate. Unable to pull her eyes away, Alicia sank into a curtsey. “My lord.” No longer merely polite, his smile broadened, warmed, transforming an already handsome face into a perfectly stunning visage. Sensuality radiated off him, not in a manner that left her feeling threatened, but in a way that left her breathless for more. More of what, she did not know. But she wanted to find out. “Miss Palmer,” Lord Amesbury said, “May I have the next dance?” Alicia blinked. She looked back at Elizabeth who smiled encouragingly. Mrs. Hancock also smiled and nodded, but a touch of disappointment tainted her approval, reminding Alicia the dear lady had hoped her own daughter would attract the attention of the very eligible Lord Amesbury. That he’d singled out Alicia seemed a dream. She squelched all hope that she might hold his interest. Surely only politeness motivated him to dance with the plainest girl first. He’d soon turn his attention to the beautiful ladies. Finding her voice, Alicia replied, “I would be delighted, my lord.” As the final notes of the current dance ended and the next began, Lord Amesbury offered his arm. She took it, an unfamiliar quiver beginning in her stomach. The art of dancing, she found as the set began, had not abandoned her as completely as her wits. The handsome viscount danced with athletic grace, his attention focused upon her. The warmth of his hand seeped through their kidskin gloves. He held her gently, firmly. A playful glint touched his sapphire eyes. “I must warn you. Now that we’ve danced, my aunt will take it upon herself to ask you your opinion of me. She will most certainly interrogate me regarding you.” She met those probing eyes and her mouth curved. “Oh? Has your aunt become your self-proclaimed matchmaker?” A wry smile touched his lips. “Of course. I’m thirty and not yet married. She feels it her duty to ensure I produce an heir before I’m too old. Despite my efforts to delay that obligation, she persists.” Alicia nodded, her smile deepening at his indelicate statement. “That is a dilemma.” “Since you and I have only just met, it will be difficult to offer a fair assessment of your character. And if I say anything positive about you, she’ll plan the wedding.” His smile brightened, lighting up his stunning face. Alicia missed her step. Even while dancing with the very handsome Duke of Suttenberg two Seasons ago, such a keen attraction for a man had never overcome her as it did tonight. Yet she was nearly twenty, for heaven’s sake, not a missish schoolgirl! “Your aunt is a strong woman and a kind lady, my lord. I am sure you can reason with her.” “I suppose she possesses a good heart deep, deep down inside, but be truthful; she’s sharp-tongued and outspoken.” She laughed and then clapped her hand over her mouth. “My lord! She might hear you.” He chuckled. “Fear not. We needle each other as frequently as possible. I say worse things to her face. I enjoy watching her squirm and plot a counter- attack.” That reminded her of the playful banter she shared with her cousin Robert. “I don’t recall her ever mentioning you, my lord.” His smile turned self-deprecating. “I’m one of those relations no one mentions.”

 

Author Donna HatchBest-selling author of Regency Historical Romances, Donna Hatch is a hopeful romantic and adventurer at heart. Donna sings and plays the harp, and loves to ballroom dance. Her family, including six children, recently left their native Arizona for the west coast of the US. No matter where they live, she and her husband of over twenty years are living proof that there truly is a happily ever after.  

   

Giveaway Details

 $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway Ends 3/15/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from Clean Wholesome Romance and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway

12 Days of Clean Romance: Donna Hatch

Christmas Secrets by Donna Hatch 

 A stolen Christmas kiss leaves them bewildered and breathless. A charming rogue-turned-vicar, Will wants to prove that he left his rakish days behind him, but an accidental kiss changes all his plans. His secret could bring them together...or divide them forever. Holly has two Christmas wishes this year; finally earn her mother's approval by gaining the notice of a handsome earl, and learn the identity of the stranger who gave her a heart-shattering kiss...even if that stranger is the resident Christmas ghost. 

  

This scene takes place when everyone on Christmas Day takes a turn kissing their spouse or sweetheart underneath the mistletoe ball. Now the group turn to Will and Holly, who have only known each other a few days, and start goading them into sharing a mistletoe kiss...

“Come now, don’t be shy,” her sister called. “It’s tradition.”

The others called out encouragements.

Apology edged into Will’s uncertain expression. “Do you mind?”

Holly’s palms grew sweaty inside her gloves, and her smile probably came out wobbly. “Who are we to go against tradition?” Did she sound desperate in her desire to kiss him?

Will held out a hand. She placed hers in it and walked at his side to the kissing ball. They stood, hand in hand, facing each other. His neck cloth shifted as he swallowed. He leaned in. Her heart stumbled and her knees shook. She closed her eyes. Aching, she lifted her face. His cinnamon-spiced breath warmed her mouth.

He kissed her cheek.

Stunned, she opened her eyes. The watching guests groaned and some chuckled.

“No, no, that won’t do at all,” Joseph’s voice rang out. “Give her a proper kiss.”

Will froze. That intensity she occasionally saw in him returned. “Holly.” He swallowed again but instead of nervousness, a hunger that sent a flurry of shivers through her overtook his expression. “May I?”

She nodded. It didn’t matter if he saw how much she wanted this, wanted him. Let him know. Let the whole world know.

He touched her chin, lifted it, and leaned in. Again, she closed her eyes. This time his lips touched hers, pliant and unbelievably gentle. Heat exploded at the contact and shot through her all the way down to her tingling toes. Different from her mystery kiss, this one sang of affection and respect and a deep longing to be accepted. Sweeter, more chaste, more filled with caring, Will’s kiss brought her a level of joy she’d never known. All the world faded away leaving Will and the power of his affection, his touch, his kiss. Every moment of her life seemed to have been designed to bring her to this single, perfect moment of bliss and wholeness.

“Ahem.” Father cleared his throat conspicuously.

Will pulled away all too quickly. A tiny sound of distress caught in Holly’s throat. It was over too soon. But oh, what a glorious kiss!

"I can always count on Donna Hatch to weave a delightful tale with vivid characters and swoony kisses. Christmas Secrets does not disappoint." ~Reading is my Super Power "Filled with delightful holiday traditions, growing attraction between Holly and one of the guests, a mother set on a desirable match for her daughter, and a few heart-melting kisses, this novella is the perfect book to cuddle up with this holiday season." ~Remembrancy Book Reviews "It's been some time since an author made me believe their characters like this, but Donna Hatch writes it so beautifully I was quickly drawn into the idyllic past." Silver Wood Sketches Book Reviews  

 

GRAB A COPY ON 

SATURDAY DECEMBER 15 

FOR JUST 99 CENTS!

 

Author Donna Hatch 

 Donna Hatch is the award-winning author of the best-selling “Rogue Hearts Series” and is published in sweet Regency romance and fantasy. Her professional memberships include Romance Writers of America (RWA)and American Night Writers Association (ANWA). A sought-after workshop presenter, she juggles freelance editing, multiple volunteer positions, not to mention her six children (seven, counting her husband), and still manages to make time to write. A native of Arizona who recently relocated to the Pacific Northwest, she and her husband of over twenty years are living proof that there really is a happily ever after.    

     

      

  Giveaway Details 

 $25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in PayPal Cash Ends 1/6/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner may be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, BookBub, Instagram, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning.

 This giveaway was organized by Kathy from 

I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance 

and is sponsored by the author. 

VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.  

  a Rafflecopter giveaway