Review- Hello Stranger by Lisa Kleypas

Summary-

A woman who defies her time

Dr. Garrett Gibson, the only female physician in England, is as daring and independent as any man—why not take her pleasures like one? Yet she has never been tempted to embark on an affair, until now. Ethan Ransom, a former detective for Scotland Yard, is as gallant as he is secretive, a rumored assassin whose true loyalties are a mystery. For one exhilarating night, they give in to their potent attraction before becoming strangers again.

A man who breaks every rule

As a Ravenel by-blow spurned by his father, Ethan has little interest in polite society, yet he is captivated by the bold and beautiful Garrett. Despite their vow to resist each other after that sublime night, she is soon drawn into his most dangerous assignment yet. When the mission goes wrong, it will take all of Garrett's skill and courage to save him. As they face the menace of a treacherous government plot, Ethan is willing to take any risk for the love of the most extraordinary woman he's ever known.

Release date: February 27th, 2018

Published by: Avon

Page numbers: 400

Review-

I love Lisa Kleypas' books. Especially her historicals. They are just so well researched and well written and they manage to completely captivate me while reading. Hello Stranger is the fourth book in the Ravenels series. While this one also faintly reminds me of her Hathaways series that one will always have a special place in my heart.

So Hello Stranger is the story of Garrett and Ethan. Dr. Garrett Gibson is the only female doctor in the whole of England. She has worked hard to earn her degree and to practise medicine. Garrett had a kind soul but she was fierce and determined. She valued her independence above all and she genuinely wanted to help people through medicine. There were so many prejudices against Garrett for being a female doctor and we get to see clearly what women had to face in those times.

Ethan had a strong personality himself. He is technically a Ravenel who has been spurned by his father and so he doesn't take his name. Ethan is a spy who does the dirty work for officials, finds out information which could possibly save or harm the country. He knows his profession is dangerous and that is why he does not want to get involved with Garrett. But he cannot resist the intriguing female.

Ethan and Garrett shared great chemistry. They looked like total opposites from the outside but inherently they were the same kind of people. The circumstances they were facing would break anyone apart but they held on and fought through till the end. They were both extremely courageous and solid people who totally deserved a happy ending.

Another character who completely fascinated me and whose book I cannot wait to dive into was West Ravenel. He was charming and funny and witty. I am excited to read his story. Lisa Kleypas writes beautifully as usual and reels us into her world with ease. Hello Stranger was a great read and I would highly recommend any of Lisa Klepas' books if you are starting off with historical romances.

Blog Tour- Hello Stranger by Lisa Kleypas

Summary-

A woman who defies her time

Dr. Garrett Gibson, the only female physician in England, is as daring and independent as any man—why not take her pleasures like one? Yet she has never been tempted to embark on an affair, until now. Ethan Ransom, a former detective for Scotland Yard, is as gallant as he is secretive, a rumored assassin whose true loyalties are a mystery. For one exhilarating night, they give in to their potent attraction before becoming strangers again.

A man who breaks every rule

As a Ravenel by-blow spurned by his father, Ethan has little interest in polite society, yet he is captivated by the bold and beautiful Garrett. Despite their vow to resist each other after that sublime night, she is soon drawn into his most dangerous assignment yet. When the mission goes wrong, it will take all of Garrett's skill and courage to save him. As they face the menace of a treacherous government plot, Ethan is willing to take any risk for the love of the most extraordinary woman he's ever known. 

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EXCERPT-

He heard her muffled chuckle. She continued to lean against him while the trio of constables expressed sympathy for the unfortunate patient. Eventually the men departed with a chorus of hearty farewells. Ethan discovered that his other arm had stolen around Garrett. Making himself let go of her was like trying to uncoil a steel spring.

“You should go up to your father now,” he said with difficulty.

“Eliza will look after him while I take a few minutesto show you some slides. I have insect wings . . .pollen grains . . . flower petals . . . What would youlike to see?”

“The inside of a hansom cab,” he said softly. “I can’t be alone with you, darlin’.”

Garrett touched the edges of his vest, fingers clamping on the thin leather. “Ethan.” A blush rose in her face, like light glowing through pink frosted glass. “I don’t want to end this. We . . . we could meet in secret,now and then. No one would have to know. We would make no claims on each other. We’ll just . . . do as weplease.”

The way she fumbled with the words, so unlike her usual precise way of speaking, devastated Ethan. He could only guess what it cost her to lay open her pride like this. He wasn’t certain what she was offering, or even if she knew. Not that it mattered. He wanted,craved, needed anything she was willing to give. But he had to make her understand that it was impossible. And even if it were, the idea was beneath her.

“Have you had that kind of arrangement with a man before?” he brought himself to ask.

Her eyes were the green of deep summer and lush growing things. “I’m a woman who makes her own decisions and handles the consequences.”

“That means no,” Ethan said softly. At her silence, he continued, “You’d be risking your reputation. Your career.”

“Believe me, I understand that better than you.”

“Have you ever shared a bed with a man? Even once?”

“Why is that relevant?”

Her evasive response sent a pleasure-pang down to the pit of his stomach. “That means no,” he said again, his voice even softer than before. He took a slow breath, trying to steady himself, while his blood sang with the knowledge that she’d been waiting for him. She was meant to be his. God, he wanted her beyond any reckoning of earth or heaven. But her well-being mattered a thousand times more than his own desires.

“Garrett . . . I’m a man full o’ trouble. When I vowed to let nothing harm you, I included myself onthat list.”

A frown crimped her forehead. She closed her grip on his vest until her fists were tight as pine knots. “I’m not afraid of you, or your trouble.” Her green eyes were narrowed and intent as she tugged him closer.“Kiss me,” she urged in a whisper.

“I have to go,” he said shortly, and pulled backwhile he was still able.

But Garrett moved with him, her hands reaching up to grip his head on either side, the way he’d taught her at Baujart’s. The strength of her fingers electrified him.

“Kiss me,” she commanded, “or I’ll break your nose.”

The threat startled a ragged laugh from him. He shook his head as he looked at her, this fearsomely capable woman who loved geese and was afraid of spaghetti, and could either wield a scalpel in a complex surgical procedure or use it as a throwing-knife.

There had always been a cold streak in him, but he couldn’t seem to find it now, when he needed it most. He was breaking apart inside. He would never be the same after this.

“Christ, you’ve ruined me,” he whispered.

His arms went around her, one hand gripping the heavy silken mass of her braided chignon. She guided his head down, and he lost the battle, all his will vanquished as he began to kiss her as if the world were about to end.

For him, it was.

ABOUT LISA KLEYPAS

New York Times bestselling author Lisa Kleypas graduated from Wellesley College with a political science degree. She is a RITA award winning author of both historical romance and contemporary women’s fiction. Her novels are published in fourteen different languages and are bestsellers all over the world. She lives in Washington State with her husband Gregory and their two children.

Connect with Lisa Kleypas

Facebook: @LisaKleypas

Twitter: @LisaKleypas

Instagram: @lisakleypas

Review- Sugar Daddy by Lisa Kleypas

Summary-

SHE'S FROM THE WRONG SIDE OF THE TRACKS

Liberty Jones has dreams and determination that will take her far away from Welcome, Texas---if she can keep her wild heart from ruling her mind. Hardy Cates sees Liberty as completely off-limits. His own ambitions are bigger than Welcome, and Liberty Jones is a complication he doesn't need. But something magical and potent draws them to each other, in a dangerous attraction that is stronger than both of them. 

HE'S THE ONE MAN SHE CAN'T HAVE

When Hardy leaves town to pursue his plans, Liberty finds herself alone with a young sister to raise. Soon Liberty finds herself under the spell of a billionaire tycoon---a Sugar Daddy, one might say. But the relationship goes deeper than people think, and Liberty begins to discover secrets about her own family's past. 

WILL THEY FIND THEIR HEARTS' DESIRES OR WILL HEARTBREAK TEAR THEM APART?

Two men. One woman. A choice that can make her or break her. A woman you'll root for every step of the way. A love story you'll never forget.

Release date: March 6th, 2007

Published by: St.Martin's Press

Page numbers: 371

Review-

It is no secret that I absolutely love Lisa Kleypas books. She writes amazing historical romances and I have fairly enjoyed reading some of her contemporary romances as well. I've read the third book in the Travises series called Smooth Talking Stranger and really loved it so I decided to finally get to Sugar Daddy, which is the first book in the series. Though all these books can be read as standalones.

Firstly, I have to say that Sugar Daddy was a very different read as compared to all of Lisa Kleypas' other books. This is the story of Liberty which starts off from her child hood and then goes on till she finally settles down with the one she loves. Sugar Daddy does have a love triangle but I wouldn't exactly call it a traditional one. The situations are very complicated.

I really liked Liberty. She was a sweet and determined woman who loved her younger sister, Carrington to pieces. Liberty was hard working and was willing to do whatever it took to have a better life for her and her sister. Her thoughts and feelings were very realistic and genuine. The way she falls for Hardy, her first love with innocence and hope was easy to understand. Then years later we see her feelings come alive again for Gage Travis.

What I really liked about Sugar Daddy was the way the love triangle was handled. Hardy and Gage were both really strong characters and they made their presence felt. I loved the way Gage took over for the last 30% or so. Gage and Liberty shared great chemistry and there was this intense connection between them.

The only complaint I have is that I felt Liberty's childhood in Sugar Daddy was very dragged. I would have liked more time in the present but I can see how it was important to show how solid her connection was to Hardy as well. Lisa Kleypas is an amazing author and though Sugar Daddy may not be my favorite, it was still a very good read.

Review- Marrying Winterborne by Lisa Kleypas

Summary-

A ruthless tycoon

Savage ambition has brought common-born Rhys Winterborne vast wealth and success. In business and beyond, Rhys gets exactly what he wants. And from the moment he meets the shy, aristocratic Lady Helen Ravenel, he is determined to possess her. If he must take her virtue to ensure she marries him, so much the better…

A sheltered beauty

Helen has had little contact with the glittering, cynical world of London society. Yet Rhys’s determined seduction awakens an intense mutual passion. Helen’s gentle upbringing belies a stubborn conviction that only she can tame her unruly husband. As Rhys’s enemies conspire against them, Helen must trust him with her darkest secret. The risks are unthinkable…the reward, a lifetime of incomparable bliss. And it all begins with…

Marrying Mr. Winterborne 

Release date: May 31st, 2016

Published by: Avon

Page numbers: 416

Review-

Lisa Kleypas is the queen of historical romance. I will read whatever she writes, there is no doubt about that. Marrying Winterborne is the second book in her Ravenels series. I adored all the new characters we were introduced to in Cold Hearted Rake, the first book in the series but I was even more excited for Rhys and Helen's story. Its safe to say I was not disappointed in the least. I really enjoyed Marrying Winterborne.

Let's start with the hero as the title of the book suggests, Marrying Winterborne. Rhys Winterborne is Welsh who is now the owner of the largest departmental stores across the country. He has definitely come a long way from being a commoner. Now the only thing he wants is to be included in the upper circle of English society and marrying Helen will do that. It doesn't help that he's helplessly falling for her. I really liked Rhys. He was ruthless where needed but his feelings for Helen were true.

Helen has always been the most shy in all of her sisters. She comes off as timid to others and that is one of the reasons many think her match with the brash Rhys Winterborne is not right. But Helen is a strong person underneath her shyness. She is thoughtful and loving and kind and she finds adventure with just being with Rhys. I loved how open Helen was with her feelings towards Rhys. She balanced him out perfectly.

Rhys and Helen may not seem perfect on paper but they balanced each other out. Helen understood Rhys' need to be included in English society and Rhys only wanted to give Helen every thing she's ever dreamed of. Everything was going so perfectly well that I wondered what exactly was going to be the conflict in the book. But never doubt Lisa Kleypas. There were interesting turn of events which keeps you engaged throughout the book. Lisa Kleypas heroes are something of a beauty, that's for sure.

I also loved seeing Devon and Kathleen doing so well. They were adorable together and they deserved all the happiness in the world. I also loved seeing the twins, Pandora and Cassandra. I can't wait to see how these girls get their happy endings. I'm already beyond excited for Devil in Spring which is the next book and it is about Pandora and the son of one of my favourite couples EVER! Marrying Winterborne was a great read.

Review- Cold-Hearted Rake by Lisa Kleypas

Summary-

A twist of fate...

Devon Ravenel, London's most wickedly charming rake, has just inherited an earldom. But his powerful new rank in society comes with unwanted responsibilities . . . and more than a few surprises. His estate is saddled with debt, and the late earl's three innocent sisters are still occupying the house . . . along with Kathleen, Lady Trenear, a beautiful young widow whose sharp wit and determination are a match for Devon's own.

A clash of wills...

Kathleen knows better than to trust a ruthless scoundrel like Devon. But the fiery attraction between them is impossible to deny—and from the first moment Devon holds her in his arms, he vows to do whatever it takes to possess her. As Kathleen finds herself yielding to his skillfully erotic seduction, only one question remains:

Can she keep from surrendering her heart to the most dangerous man she's ever known?

Release Date: October 27th, 2015

Published by: Avon

Page numbers: 416

Review-

After reading the recent contemporary romances by Lisa Kleypas I was feeling a little let down by her so I was really excited to see that she had a new historical romance. Cold-Hearted Rake is the first book in The Ravenels series by Lisa Klepas. I thoroughly enjoyed myself while reading Cold-Hearted Rake.

Devon Ravenel is a wicked rake who ends up inheriting an earldom. What he doesn't expect is to inherit three cousins with it. Nor does he expect to be so fascinated with his cousin's widow. I really liked Devon. He was a rake and he could be cruel and harsh when he wanted to be but his heart was always in the right place. I also found it charming that he was so smitten by Kathleen.

Kathleen is our heroine. She's just lost her husband but she can't bring herself to mourn about a person whom she didn't love. Kathleen had a history of her own but all she wanted to do was take care of her sisters-in-law. I really liked Kathleen. I liked how she stood up to Devon and wasn't afraid to speak her mind. She wanted to be loved for who she was.

Kathleen and Devon's romance was a slow burn. It was definitely one of those love-hate relationships in the beginning but they soon start understanding each other. I just love the way Lisa Kleypas writes romance. There is so much depth and complexity and intimacy in every scene. We also get to see the start of Helen and Rhys' story.

We get to see many characters in Cold-Hearted Rake. Lisa Klepas has set up the foundation for a great series. That is the reason that the love story some times took a bit of a back seat. But I enjoyed it none the less. I loved the twins and I'm so excited for Marring Mr.Winterborne which is the next book. I highly recommend Cold-Hearted Rake.