The Bachelor

I have read so many HR that I know what writers I enjoy. There are occasional disappointments but not many. I try to avoid new writers because I feel it’s like rolling the dice and I usually lose. I try not to be influenced by the book bloggers. I search the blogs so I can see what new books have been released. This is one time I took a chance on a bloggers positive review. The story sounded interesting. Big loser for me. Didn’t feel the romance. Too many characters. Maybe this isn’t a standalone? I describe these types of books as a slow train to nowhere. I was so bored I quit at 2/3. This writer will be a one and done for me.

The Bachelor is the second in the Duke Dynasty series but can be read as a stand alone. This is a story of overcoming the past and finding happiness in the present. Gwyn is thirty years old and finally having her debut to society but she holds a secret that will keep her from marrying. Major Joshua Wolfe is on half-pay from the Marines because he was severely injured during a battle. Gwyn's twin brother Thorn has hired Joshua to protect Gwyn from a former suitor who is trying to kidnap her. As they spend time together traveling to London and while in London, they start to develop feelings for each other but the secrets they keep and their own fears are threatening to destroy their budding relationship. This is a story filled with intrigue, blackmail, espionage and a fantastic love story. The characters are engaging and entertaining. This was a fun, enjoyable read.

After loving Project Duchess, I couldn't wait to read Gwyn and Joshua's story in The Bachelor. While I did enjoy it, it wasn't quite as good as Project Duchess. I think I loved the characters more in the first one. While I love where the overall story is going from book to book, Gwyn's backstory wasn't that interesting and I felt a little letdown because I loved these characters in the first book. Overall, it was quite good, but I was hoping for a bit more.

Joshua and Gwyn's story... and quite the ride it is. A bit less 'light' than the first book, as the characters continue to grow on us. I still found myself having to "push" myself to read in some places, but just as content with this finish as I was with the first book.The mystery thickens, and it doesn't seem like we're making much ground in answering any of the questions, but we HAVE questions and that's the start. Along the way the rest of the dynasty develops.

I have yet to read a story Sabrina has written that I haven't enjoyed. I love a story where the man thinks he's below the station of the woman he wants and is watching her from a distance. The mystery that is continuing through this series keeps you turning pages along with the attraction between Gwyn and Joshua. Another must read book and series.