Carla Kelly - Leslie Kelly - Janet Kendall
Kelly, Carla - LIBBY'S LONDON MERCHANT (Signet - 1991) (5)
A book that boldly breaks the mold—and is probably a lot truer to Regency sensibilities than any other Regencies I've read (except for some by Georgette Heyer, of course). Kudos to Kelly for being one romance writer who never underestimates her readers' intelligence. ~Elena P.
Kelly, Carla - REFORMING LORD RAGSDALE (Signet - 1995) (5)
Magnificent, wry writing from a wonderful, remarkably consistent author—probably the only writer of Regencies who continues to interest me. For an example of Kelly at her best, read aloud the paragraph that ends with Lord Ragsdale closing his (one good) eye. ~Elena P.
Kelly, Carla - REFORMING LORD RAGSDALE (Signet - 1995) (5)
Lord Ragsdale is happy in his slothful ways, but Emma is determined to reform him in order to win her indenture papers. A moving book that is difficult to read at times, but intensely rewarding. At first neither the hero or heroine is altogether likable, but the emotions between them build and build until the reader can't help rooting for them. ~Karen W. (kwheless@rockland.net)
Kelly, Carla - WITH THIS RING (Signet - 1997) (5)
One of the best Regencies I've read. No fluff here. A gritty story of a survivor of the Peninsular War who meets a young, downtrodden woman. She gradually comes into her own and grows and matures into one of the strongest heroines I've come across. Am I ever glad I have all of Kelly's books. A resounding 5 stars! ~Gail (bookbabe@javanet.com)
Kelly, Leslie - NIGHT WHISPERS (Harl. Tempt. 747 - 9/99) (4+)
When Mitch Wymore walks into his brownstone after a six-month research trip to China, he is fit to be tied! The yard is full of flowers, trees, and shrubs, and the kitchen has frilly curtains and matching towels. What has Kelsey Logan, the bane of his childhood, done to his home? He tromps out to the garden to confront her and receives a big surprise. Kelsey, who was always a little pest, isn't a scrawny kid anymore!
When he was young and alone, the Logans made Mitch a part of their family; and for as long as Kelsey can remember, she has had a big crush on him. But Mitch has never considered her to be anything more than a pesky sister. Little does he know she is "Lady Love," a very popular disc jockey. Her late-night radio show, NIGHT WHISPERS, makes listeners laugh and cry, and it raises temperatures when she discusses fantasies, passion, and love. When Mitch discovers her occupation, he is flabbergasted and begins to look at her in a different way; but he always promised himself he'd watch out for Kelsey and honor her and her family. Can she persuade him to put aside his noble intentions so the two of them can have NIGHT WHISPERS of their own?
New author Leslie Kelly has written a funny, sensual, and totally enchanting romance starring two very likable characters. Mitch and Kelsey are honorable and determined, but they have some issues from their pasts to deal with before their relationship can move forward. Ms. Kelly's skillful writing brings forth the thoughts and emotions of these two people quite clearly; and the colorful secondary characters, along with a mystery element, further enhance the tale. Although the main plot is tried and true, Kelsey's profession as a sexy disc jockey is a fresh idea. I highly recommend NIGHT WHISPERS to readers who like stories that closely revolve around the hero and heroine's relationship. A very good read! ~Sharon Laird for Bookbug on the Web
Kendall, Janet - HUNTER OF MY HEART (Harlequin Hist. - 5/99) (4+)
In the prologue, which takes place in 1825 London, we are introduced to Hunter Sinclair and his roguish father, the Baron of Wick. In order to protect his mother's reputation, Hunter has paid a large allowance to his father, who married for wealth and title and frivolously spent his money on mistresses and extravagant living. After the death of his mother, he catches his father seducing a young lady in the family home and tricks him into boarding a ship, where the Baron is locked up and later transported to Australia. Hunter vows never to be blackmailed again.
Five years later in Scotland, Hunter is confronted by Sabrina Beaumont, who produces a signed document that states he owes a large sum of money for dressmaking services. Thinking she may be in league with his father for the purpose of extorting money, he threatens to have her imprisoned. Out of desperation, Sabrina agrees to remain at his castle while he investigates her story. Meanwhile, she is being pursued by her grandfather, the wealthy and powerful Duke of Sadlerfield, who disinherited her father after he married a commoner. At her mother's deathbed, Sabrina vowed to protect her baby brother and sister and keep their identity hidden from the Duke. Her aunt claimed the children as her own, but they needed to be constantly on the move to guard against discovery.
Sabrina's grandfather catches up with her at the castle, and after appraising the situation, he demands that Hunter marry his granddaughter at once in order to salvage her reputation—a ploy to provide him with a needed heir. Sabrina is terrified that consummation of the marriage could result in a male child, which her grandfather would take away from her; and to pacify Hunter, she makes a pact with him—one she never intends to keep.
The author sets into motion an intriguing tale, filled with secrets and subtle humor that will capture your interest and have you smiling. The relationship between the hero and heroine moves from friendship and flirtation to a love so sensual it sizzles. There are some surprises along the way as the author deftly develops the plot and the characters, then leads the story to a satisfying conclusion. Janet Kendall is a new voice in romantic fiction, and if her impressive debut is an indication of what we can expect from her in the future, she is an author on the road to success. ~Carol Carter for Bookbug on the Web
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