Well, since I posted the original February challenge on the first Saturday of February, it seems fitting that I post the challenge result on the last Saturday too. 😉
As a reminder, Nat posted the February challenge on her Reading Romances website, and the choices were to read a book with a predominantly red cover, read a book by an author you’ve given up, read a novella or anthology, read one of the oldest books on your TBR shelf, or read an historical fiction (not limited to historical romance).
In case you missed my post on February 4th, I chose to read A Lady Never Surrenders by Sabrina Jeffries (for the red cover and historical setting) as well as Your Magic Touch by Kathy Carmichael for the novella challenge.
First up, A Lady Never Surrenders. This was perfect timing (and with a perfect cover to meet the challenge). The final book in the Hellions of Halstead Hall series features a heroine with a distinct and unusual talent for shooting and the hero who feels as a Bow Street Runner their social stations are too far apart for any hope of a match.
I’ve loved getting to know the Sharpe family throughout this series and Lady Celia’s story is a solid wrap up. The final pieces of the puzzle were brought to light, amid a deep love story as the hero and heroine learned to trust themselves – and more importantly – each other.
Jeffries revealed a depth of character and emotion for the motivation of Celia and Jackson that had me smiling and teary by turns. It was a delightful way to feed my historical romance addiction.
Next, Kathy Carmichael’s Your Magic Touch. This novella is quick and quirky and the premise of magical matchmakers striving to pair up Frannie and Sinclair so they can stay out of the Old Magicks Home is one I chucked over.
It’s a sweet romance and a cute “spoof on the traditional gothic” as the author phrased it. With ghosts real and faked and problematic doorknobs, this novella is sure to leave you smiling.
Feel free to comment and let me know if you’ve read either of these titles and if you’ve joined the Reading Romances 2012 Challenge. You don’t want us to have all the fun without you!
Live the adventure!
