Winter Fire

This book is a side-saga in the Malloren series. Do you have to know the Malloren's to read this? No, definitely not, since the main characters here are not actually "core" Malloren stories. Does it help to know who Rothgar and the Malloren gang are? Perhaps, but not essential, since the story itself allows for all the necessary details to come out.

The romance itself revolves around a couple of characters peripheral to the Malloren series, so I think this novel can stand alone. I liked our leading lady. She was fairly feisty and independent (well, as much as is possible for a Regency heroine). And I have to admit, I have a soft spot for those brooding not-really bad boys ;-)

The book had a little mystery, some witty repartee, some sexual tension, a laugh or two, and of course a happy ending. Overall I found this a very satisfying romance. Don't be afraid that is one of the "series" -- everything you need to enjoy this book is included here.

Terrific romance novel! Great story. Great characters. Loved the spirit and independence of Jennifer Smith. Love how the story wound around and came back in the end.

Narrator great for women's conversation but not so for the male characters - made everyone sound old. Story keeps moving and has wonderful imagery of what Christmas used to be.

This was the worst book I've ever listened to. The story might have been ok, but the narrator's voice was so irritating I could barely get through it. I can't believe I actally finished it.

Passable story made horrid by the irksome voice of the narrator. I know never to purchase an audiobook read by her again.

If you want a bit of history of politics, England, and customs in the Regency period of England to go with your romance, this is an excellent choice. All of these are a bit predictable (ie-the good guy wins) but there's nothing wrong with knowing the ending as long as what is in-between is interesting. Enjoy!