Because You're Mine - Lisa Kleypas

Publication
1997, Avon, Capitol Theater #2

In short
Lady Madeline Matthews would rather shame herself than sacrifice her freedom - which is why, to avoid a marriage to an aging, lecherous lord, she seeks out the company of Logan Scott. A torrid affair with the notorious womanizer would surely condemn her in the eyes of good society.
Though a legend in the bedchamber, Logan is in truth an intensely private man tormented by past betrayals. Now a forward little minx is disrupting his life with her vibrant charm and unspoiled beauty, a high-spirited enchantress completely at sea in London’s sophisticated whirl. But when what begins with a kiss threatens to blossom into something more rapturous and real, will Logan and Madeline have the courage to drop the masks they hide behind in the name of love?

In words
After reading the first one in this series, I hoped I would like this one better and fortunately I did, although it still wasn't up to LK's usual standard, IMO. I was intrigued by Logan in the 1st book, but he didn't entirely live up to it in this book. Nice read, but nothing special.

In numbers
Voice - 2 (max 3)
Characters - 2 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 8
B = 7.5/10 = 3.5 stars

Somewhere I'll Find You - Lisa Kleypas

Publication
1996, Avon, Capitol Theatre #1

In short
All London is at Julia Wentworth's feet. The beautiful, enchanting actress is the toast of the theatre world - and anything she desires is hers for the asking. But the incomparable leading lady guards a devastating secret: a mystery husband whom she does not know, dares not mention... and cannot love.
For years Damon Savage has been searching for the stranger his unscrupulous parents wed him to without his consent. Wanting no more than to be legally rid of the foolish chit, Damon is shocked to discover his ‘bride’ is the exquisite stage performer whom he intended to make his mistress! But though his wife by law, Julia will never truly be Damon's - until he conquers her fears, his formidable rivals... and the stellar lady's proud, independent heart.

In words
I'm in shock: I did not like it! That is to say, not as much as all the other LK books I've read. The plot was okay and the style was just as good as always. I think it's mainly because of Damon - I just couldn't like him and had no idea why he - suddenly it seems - decided he loved Julia. I don't believe in a HEA for them at all. I'm almost waiting for him to leave her or ask her to give up the theater after all..

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 1 (max 3)
Romance - 0 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 6
C = 6.5/10 = 3 stars

Tempt Me at Twilight - Lisa Kleypas

Publication
2009, Hathaways #3

In short
Poppy Hathaway loves her unconventional family, though she longs for normalcy. Then fate leads to a meeting with Harry Rutledge, an enigmatic hotel owner and inventor with wealth, power, and a dangerous hidden life. When their flirtation compromises her own reputation, Poppy shocks everyone by accepting his proposal - only to find that her new husband offers his passion, but not his trust. Harry was willing to do anything to win Poppy - except to open his heart. All his life, he has held the world at arm’s length... but the sharp, beguiling Poppy demands to be his wife in every way that matters. Still, as desire grows between them, an enemy lurks in the shadows. Now if Harry wants to keep Poppy by his side, he must forge a true union of body and soul, once and for all...

In words
Harry is now one of my favorite heroes, he is portrayed wonderfully. The one quibble I have with this book is Poppy, who somehow remained a bit flat. The book is full of humor, amongst others because of various animals. The other Hathaways are of course also present, but in a pleasant way.

In numbers
Voice - 3 (max 3)
Characters - 2 (max 3)
Romance - 2 (max 2)
Plot - 1 (max 2)
Conversations - 1
Humor - 1
Sensuality - 1
No minus points
Total - 11
A- = 9/10 = 4,5 stars