Flirty Rotten Scoundrels #1: Scandal of the Summer by Alexandra Vasti book review

A scandalous debutante, Lady Ruby Ballimore, flees London after a disastrous society incident and, with two friends, assumes roles as ladies-in-waiting at a supposedly vacant Cornish estate. Instead, they find a derelict house occupied by Captain Malcolm Archer and his ragtag crew—former sailors-turned-smugglers posing as staff. Misunderstandings, fake invitations, and clever cons escalate into madcap antics as both groups try to deceive the other while protecting their own secrets. Insect invasions, sham sea monsters, and inventive attempts to frighten the ladies create comic chaos, but sparks soon fly between the fiercely honest Ruby and the rakish, protective Archer. As danger and a larger mystery draw them together, the two must lower their walls, confront past hurts, and choose family over pretense. The story balances humor, heists, and warm, steamy romance, culminating in a satisfying HEA while leaving room for sequels focused on the supporting cast. 

Historical romance readers will enjoy the book’s blend of Regency charm and swashbuckling mischief: witty banter, found-family dynamics, atmospheric Cornish setting, and believable tension between class-different leads. The chemistry between Ruby and Malcolm is both tender and spicy, with heartfelt character growth that made me grin and sigh in equal measure. Vasti’s playful plotting, memorable side characters (and quirky animals), and the mix of adventure and emotional payoff make this a delightful, feel-good read I’d happily recommend to anyone who loves warm, character-driven historical romance.  Loved it!

This book is set to be released on June 23, 2026.  Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an ARC.

Mountain Men Matchmaker #4: Bad Boy Era by Amy Daws book review

The 4th and final book of this series!  Definitely recommend reading them in order. Everly Fletcher, the family’s self-styled matchmaking mastermind, returns home to Fletcher Mountain after four years at Trinity College in Dublin to help launch her aunt’s animal rescue. Quiet summer plans unravel when Conri “Wolf” Reilly—her college roommate’s brooding, tattooed twin and a scandal-tainted rugby bad boy—shows up needing a place to stay while he rebuilds his career with a U.S. rugby team. As a favor, Everly asks her aunt if she can hire Wolf to work and live at the animal rescue. This forces them into close, charged proximity. He treats her with grumpy dismissal, but his protective, slow-burning attraction becomes impossible to hide. Between rescued animals, a hilariously overprotective Fletcher clan, and sweet scenes with a precocious child and an alpaca, Everly and Wolf navigate secrets, pride, and growing desire. Dual points of view reveal Wolf’s softer side and Everly’s awkward vulnerability as both learn to accept who they are. What begins as a begrudging arrangement turns into a fierce, tender romance that brings Everly her own hard-won happy ending—and a satisfying close to the Mountain Men series. 

I loved this book because it is a classic grumpy × sunshine with small-town warmth, forced proximity, and slow-burn chemistry—the exact ingredients many romance readers crave. The dual POV lets you live inside both hearts: Everly’s bright, matchmaking mind and Wolf’s brooding, protective interior. His Irish charm and rugby-backstory add spice and texture, while the animal-rescue setting supplies cozy, feel-good moments and comic relief. Fans of found-family dynamics will adore the Fletcher clan’s overprotective uncles and their tender, hilarious reactions; recurring characters return with satisfying cameos that reward longtime readers. I liked how Everly’s growth from matchmaker-for-others to someone who accepts love for herself felt genuine and moving. Everly and Cliona's friendship really stood out as an example of women rooting for each other. Wolf’s rough exterior hiding deep affection—especially in his scenes with the animals and Stevie—made him impossible not to love. The sex was steamy with a bit of primal play thrown in. Definitely not a closed door book.  I think the author gave the ending a Happy For Now, considering they are younger than the other characters in the series.  They are both working on their careers and finding their way in a new relationship.  Loved it!  This book is scheduled to be released May 26, 2026.  Thanks to Harlequin and NetGalley for a ARC of this book.