FROM THE HEART WITH GINI RIFKIN: IN REVIEW

My Books at Amazon

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Awards

Break Heart Canyon

Colorado Author’s League Best Historical Romance of the Year. Still Moments Magazine Best Secondary Character.

Undercover Outlaw

Winner Beverly Award

Finalist Oklahoma Heart Award

Readers’ Choice Award

Finalist Colorado Author’s League

Cowboys, Cattle, and Cutthroats

Finalist: Colorado Romance Writers Beverley Award and 5 stars from N.N. Light Magazine.

A Cowboy’s Fate

Winner of Maple Leaf award, best short story.

5 stars Net Galley.

Trapper's Moon

Winner Reader's Choice Award Still Moments Magazine, and Reader’s Favorite.

Fatal Recall

Best Romantic Thriller of the year from Colorado Author’s League. Finalist NEST Award-National Excellence in Story Telling.

Solace: Fae Warriors Book 1

Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewer's Choice Award and N.N. Light Finalist. 5+ NN Light reviews

Promise Me Christmas

Finalist Colorado Authors' League Excellence in Writing.

Praise for Gini’s books…

Westerns

Undercover Outlaw

Long and Short Reviews. Reviewed by Mistflower: Undercover Outlaw was a fast paced, plot twisting, emotional provoking story that pleased me greatly. I especially enjoyed the epilogue. I applaud Gini Rifkin for such a wonderful read.

N.N. Light: A book that read like a superb Clint Eastwood western from the good old days. Jesse is a hero everyone can cheer on. Trinity is a superb leading lady that proves again the human spirit can overcome every challenge. Brilliantly researched, well written, make, and absorbing. My Rating: 5 stars

Between The Pages: Once again, the author masterfully captured my attention within the opening pages. Get comfy in your chair because you won’t want to put this book down. Rating 5 Stars.

5 STARS Readers’ Favorite Reviewed on 11/01/2020

https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/undercover-outlaw

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

It's 1888 in Prairie Ridge, Colorado. Jesse, a tenacious young man disguised as an outlaw, infiltrates a gang of robbers led by a man named Billy Bart. Jesse is searching for the killers of his younger brother Jacob and is determined to bring them to justice. During one of the gang's robberies, Jesse unwittingly ends up kidnapping a young woman named Trinity. Trinity, who has a past of her own, soon finds herself attracted to Jesse. But Jesse must keep his feelings in check and continue to gather evidence against Briggs, the man who controls the town. Will Jesse succeed? Will Trinity find her happy ending? To find out, read Undercover Outlaw, a romance/western by author Gini Rifkin.

I had a blast reading Undercover Outlaw. It's an engaging story of two lovers brought together by unforeseen circumstances and doing their best to overcome their respective struggles. The characters are everyday people facing extraordinary challenges, making them feel relatable and heroic in equal measure. Gini Rifkin's setup of a small town in 1888 America seems really well done, and the western ambiance made the read an even more enjoyable experience. The action sequences happen in quick bursts and are vividly described. There are also some serious issues related to human trafficking that get duly explored, and Rifkin handles them with the necessary nuance and grace. I don't think there is a single thing that I didn't like about this book. I would recommend it to fans of both romance and western crime novels.

Available here.

5 STARS N.N. Light

N.N. Light review

A book that read like a superb Clint Eastwood western from the good old days. Jesse is a hero everyone can cheer on. Trinity is a superb leading lady that proves again the human spirit can overcome every challenge. The story is taut with an incredibly complex plot. My favorite characters are Trinity and her girls. The energy, spirit, and ability they show make one think they have some fae in them.

The action and adventure will keep a lover of that on edge for the whole book. The fan of good romance will simply love the story of Jesse and Trinity. Brilliantly researched, well written, make, and absorbing. This book will appeal to every reader of action/romance books. One that is hard to put down once you make the great decision to pick this story up.

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Break Heart Canyon

N.N. Light: 5 stars Break Heart Canyon is a historical western romance I couldn’t put down. From the first page until the last, the story captured my imagination. Gini Rifkin creates a world any reader can sink their teeth into. Each scene is beautifully described with historical accuracy, vibrant setting, engaging dialogue, and characters that come to life. If you’re like me and like a spunky heroine, you’re going to love Break Heart Canyon. Gini Rifkin has penned another outstanding historical romance. Highly recommend!

Between the Pages: 5 Stars Love the cover and the story! Ms. Rifkin immediately draws you into the pages of this book. The storyline is so masterfully written, you’ll want to continue reading until the very end. Una and Ryker are captivating, as is the whole cast. Whiskey Jim and Una’s assortment of animals are stars as secondary characters. The legend of the tribes and Heart Break Canyon is fascinating. With a punch of drama, a hint of mystery, a little action, and a surprising twist, this book is a must read.

Readers’ Favorite: 5 stars Pikasho Deka An engaging story of two lovers brought together by unforeseen circumstances and doing their best to overcome their respective struggles. The characters are everyday people facing extraordinary challenges, making them feel relatable and heroic in equal measure. The action sequences happen in quick bursts and are vividly described. There are also some serious issues related to human trafficking that get duly explored, and Rifkin handles them with the necessary nuance and grace. I don't think there is a single thing that I didn't like about this book. I would recommend it to fans of both romance and western crime novels.

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Trapper’s Moon

NNLight Book Heaven Trapper's Moon is a riveting historical tale with danger, wilderness, turmoil, adventure, suspense and yes, romance. The historical time period may be familiar but I can guarantee you haven’t heard it told quite like this. Free trappers at war with the Hudson Bay Company, annihilation of Native American tribes, missionaries stripping Native American children of their heritage, this book has it all. The characters leap off the page and tell their story with no filter. It’s historical truth and not white-washed. I found it compelling and couldn’t put it down. This is my first Gini Rifkin book and it won’t be my last. She brings history to life while still bringing an emotional element to the plot. The romance between Blind Deer and Kade is slow burning yet honestly drawn. Highly recommend!

NetGalley Read full reviews here.
Heather b, Reviewer Netgalley
A very nice historical romance, with fascinating characters that you will love and a great story supporting them.
Pamela W, Educator/NetGalley
I loved this book. I love the writing style and the way the story flows. The characters are wonderfully detailed with their own uniqueness.
Between The Pages 5 Stars: First, I want to say how beautiful this cover is. Blue is my favourite colour, so this book won me over right away. If I saw this book on a store shelf, I would pick it up to learn more about the story. And the story is truly an enjoyable read. Kade and Blind Deer are the perfect match. Their chemistry is sweet and emotional. Blind Deer’s background is filled with sadness that will pull at your heartstrings. You’ll want her to find her happy-ever-after and Kade fits the role as the endearing rugged hero. The secondary cast is outstanding with Tucket, Maggie, Nikota, and the mischievous Kinnapa and Kintama. Blind Deer’s bother, Nikota could definitely lead a story of his own. The historical aspect is very interesting. The added romance, bits of humour, drama, and tension makes this story a page-turning hit.

Super Kam Review
Read review at SuperKamBoook

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Cowboys, Cattle, and Cutthroats

SuperKam’s review: Gun battles, outlaws, mystery, death, deception, romance, and love. No matter the era, women are strong, fierce, warriors who can hold their own in a fight. Would I recommend this book? Absolutely. read Review here

Between The Pages

Ochessa, the heroine is strong and independent and Nic, the hero, is charming and witty. The author does a good job combining wit with action and romance. The story moves along at a steady pace, adding suspense, villainous dark horsemen, and gun fights. With a few steamy scenes, this historical western was an entertaining read.
Read full review here
NetGalley Read full reviews here
Cathy S, Reviewer recommends
This book was my introduction to Gini Rifkin. I really enjoy the story. If you like historical western stories this book is for you.

Christena K, Reviewer
I liked the story and there was plenty of adventure. If you like historical western stories this book is for you.

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A Cowboy's Fate

Still Moments Magazine. A must read...5 stars. Winner of Maple Leaf award, best short story.

Net Galley 5 stars, a fast-paced tale set in Colorado
Patricia n, Reviewer Net Galley 5 stars “A Cowboys Fate,” by Gini Rifkin is a fast-paced tale set in Colorado in the late 1880’s. Britania Rule had been deported from England after a misunderstanding of accusing the Queen’s nephew of being Jack the Ripper, and given the choices of her future destination, she accepts her fate and travels to Boston. Britania has full faith in her abilities to read her cards and accept her fate, so when the cards tell her that her success lies in the town of Leadville, Colorado she seeks out an experienced guide to take her to her destination. Cody James is a man who plays to win and due to circumstances in his past, he is a man on a mission to right the wrongs he experienced at the hands of his ex-partner. Cody agrees to get Britania to Leadville, but he had no idea how much this trip would change his life. Britania and Cody must fight for their burgeoning love affair against a force of evil that may be the death of them. I was given this book to read by the author in exchange for an honest review.

5 STARS from N.N. Light

They say love is in the cards but for this couple, the trail is treacherous. With the blending of historical western romance with a big of magic, A Cowboy’s Fate is an intoxicating read/listen. The characters are vibrant and full of life. The plot moves at an excellent pace. The world-building is excellent and so is the descriptive narration. I found myself caught up in the romance as well as the action. If you love historical western romance, you’ll want to give this a listen.

Narrator’s overall voice – Richard L. Walton’s voice is full-bodied with depth and character. Whether he’s narrating in Britannia voice or Cody’s voice, he brings the characters' thoughts and feelings to life. The tenor of Richard’s voice makes for an enjoyable listening experience. Does the narrator fit the characters? Yes, Richard L. Walton fits the characters. I closed my eyes while listening and imagined him in the old west with his cowboy hat slung low over his eyes.

Narrator’s reading style –

The reading style is nice and slow with a smooth baritone voice. He pauses when the story needs it and picks up speed during some intense scenes. He innately knows how to pull the listener into the story.

Narrator’s impact on reading experience –

It’s all about the partnership between Richard L. Walton and Gini Rifkin. Gini Rifkin is a brilliant writer who writes with passion and Richard brings that story to life through his performance. Narrator’s pacing – The pacing is perfect with just the right amount of dramatic flair. Audiobook flow – The flow of this audiobook is smooth.

What makes this audiobook unique – This audiobook reminds me of everything I love about old west movies but in listening format. The story and the narration will transport you. Would I recommend this audiobook – Yes!

My Rating: 5 stars

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SPECIAL DELIVERY----Audio & E-book

5 Stars/Publisher’s Pick: Still Moments Magazine
5 stars/from Fall Into Reading Reviews: I love cowboy stories no matter what time period they are set in. There’s just something about a cowboy…sexiness, handsome good looks or even his natural, go with the flow attitude maybe? Well whatever it is, Virgil Kincaid, the cowboy in Special Delivery was one of those.
In this story set in Colorado in 1888, we meet the hero Virgil Kincaid who after a few too many years brushing with the law and paying his dues, is now the town Marshall of Clover City Colorado. A quiet place where hardly anything ever happens unless it’s a brawl at the saloon over a game of cards.
Over an apparent murder on the outskirts of town, the Marshall is thrown into an investigation in which the heroine is right in the dead middle of. (No pun intended)
Here is where our heroine Miss Mariah McAllister enters. She is the daughter of Doc McAllister, the only doctor in town and she unnerves the Marshall at every turn.
She’s extremely independent, self-sufficient and don’t forget head strong. She’s very focused on her soon-to-be expecting patient but just can’t stay out of the murder investigation for the British man she found outside of town.
The chemistry between these two excellent characters is riveting and has the perfect makings for a romance. Trust me I could go on and on but what fun would that be for you? Believe me when I say you won’t want to miss finding out what happens to these two in this once sleepy little 1888 Colorado town. I’m sure glad I did !!

Suspense

Fatal Recall

Reader’s Favorite Reviewed by Lesley Jones: Gini Rifkin tells the tale of Private Investigator Hudson Kincaid as he tracks down an elusive serial killer in Denver, Colorado. So far, the killer has left no clue about his identity and always seems one step ahead of the police. Kincaid must use all his experience to find the killer before he strikes again. His one lead is Dr. Marilyn Monrose: a neuroscientist whose virtual reality headgear enables her to relive the final moments of each victim.

Although Marilyn is drawn to Kincaid, she is far from impressed when he descends into her laboratory and begins to intrude on her research. She is determined to keep any details of her experiments confidential and makes Kincaid aware of the danger she would face if any of her research was leaked. As Kincaid's investigation deepens, Marilyn's work is disclosed to the media, and Kincaid’s journalist ex-girlfriend appears. The betrayal leaves Marilyn as the new focus for the killer, and it's up to Kincaid to save her.

Fatal Recall by Gini Rifkin has a gripping plot that will keep your attention throughout. The descriptive narrative is of an excellent standard, portraying a really dark and sinister atmosphere suited to the best crime novels. I loved the characters of Kincaid and Marilyn; the chemistry between them was excellent and their relationship developed perfectly. The scenes where Marilyn used the virtual reality headset added a very interesting layer to the plot. I also thought the backstory for Kincaid was superb as it gave us a clear insight into his thought processes.

There were so many moments of tension and I thought the scenes where we gained an insight into the cold and detached emotions of the killer were absolutely gripping. His disturbed, psychotic mind and his love for his cat, Princess, gave me goosebumps. The introduction of Kincaid’s ex-girlfriend, (Jennifer)Julia, brought another layer of intrigue to the plot too. With its many twists and turns, I would highly recommend Fatal Recall.

N.N. Light review Neuroscientist Dr. Marilyn Monrose is on the brink of a breakthrough. Using VR (virtual reality), she can experience the final moments of a murdered victim’s life. She’s trying to keep her research secret for now but she’s having difficulty concentrating whenever sexy private investigator Hudson Kincaid is around. He’s investigating the murders, the same murders involved in her VR experiments. What’s a woman to do? No matter how hot their attraction is, it takes an immediate backseat when her research gets disclosed to the media who run the story. She’s now in the crosshairs of a murderer and she may soon live out her final moments, just like all the victims she watched in her VR research. Can Hudson track down the killer before Marilyn’s life is snuffed out for good?

Fatal Recall is a gripping romantic thriller from start to finish. The concept of VR experiments to track down a serial killer is an original idea and propelled the plot. The plot itself is equal parts serial killer thriller and hot romance. The pace of the story is fast and had me whipping through the pages. I stayed up late a few times because I just had to read more to find out what happened next. The romantic tension between Marilyn and Hudson was electrifying. I kept trying to figure out who the killer was and when it was revealed, I gasped. This is a new genre for Gini Rifkin and she nailed it. The descriptive narration, plot progression, suspense, characterization, all blend to make Fatal Recall a must-read. Fans of romantic thrillers will love Fatal Recall. I can’t wait to read more from Gini Rifkin. Highly recommend!

Between The Pages Hudson Kincaid prefers the wide-open spaces. But tracking down a serial killer means hanging out in Denver as he investigates neuroscientist Dr. Marilyn Monrose. So far, he can't figure out if she's a city kitty in high heels or a country kitten in cowgirl boots.

Marilyn's experiment in ramped-up virtual reality captures the final moments of each murder victim's life, a chilling discovery she's trying to keep secret. The last interruption she needs is a determined private detective barging into her lab—no matter how sexy he looks wearing his Stetson hat.

When word of her research gets leaked to the press, Marilyn becomes the killer's next target. Now the woman Hudson races to save is the one who has stolen his heart.

The well-developed plot had me engrossed in this story immediately. I’ve read other genres from this author, but not a suspense, so I was eager to read this one, and I was not disappointed. The author pulls you into the intriguing story. The characters are captivating. Hudson is charming with his farm animals and Stetson hat, and Marilyn has a unique name and an interesting profession. The story line is very visual, especially the scenes inside Marilyn’s head. There is a totally creepy and sinister villain, edge-of-your seat suspense, and a good cast of secondary character. I would definitely read a sequel to this gripping crime novel.

Review from Sandy at The Reading Café

Told from third person perspectives FATAL RECALL follows Dr. Marilyn Monrose in the aftermath of a number of murders in the Denver area, all attributed to a possible serial killer. Dr. Marilyn Monrose is a neuroscientist, and her latest high tech, experiments involve wiring the brains of the recently deceased in an effort to ‘see’ their final few moments of life but former Denver police detective turned PI Hudson Kincaid suspects there is more to our heroine than anyone expected, and finds himself walking into a futuristic forensic pathology lab, a lab that government may lay claim to its’ use.

Marilyn’s experiments begin to reveal a pattern, a cause, and a possible identity but leave our heroine struggling in the aftermath with blinding headaches, nausea and pain. As the serial killer continues on their spree of murders, Marilyn and Hudson find themselves the victims of numerous crimes, crimes that may or may not be as a direct result of their current investigation. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Marilyn and Hudson, as our couple’s lives begin to spiral out of control when a killer targets our story line heroine.

Dr. Marilyn Monrose must keep her experiments a tightly guarded secret, experiments that center on the final moments of life but when PI Hudson Kincaid begins to suspect Dr. Monrose knows more than she is willing or able to reveal, our heroine finds herself confiding in a man with whom she will fall in love.

We are introduced to Hudson’s friend and police officer Marco Moretti; as well as Hudson’s ex girlfriend and reporter Jennifer, and Marilyn’s onetime romantic involvement Warren Jameson. Here’s hoping the author has plans to write a series involving Hudson and Marilyn, and a story for Marco Moretti, as well.

FATAL RECALL is a story of madness, obsession, murder and revenge. The fast paced premise is intriguing, and thought provoking; the characters are intelligent and energetic; the romance is captivating but mostly implied.

Sci/Fi Fantasy

Solace Fae Warriors Book 1

Between The Pages The beautiful cover will have you anticipating this read, and the story-line doesn’t disappoint. The characters are well-written and the plot is seamless. I look forward to reading book two which highlights Bliss’ story…Darlene Fredette.

Kam’s Place 4.5 stars Science fiction lovers, I’d like to proudly introduce you to your next favorite book.

Net Galley Charlie B, Reviewer recommends this book.

I finished the book in one day. Luckily it was my day off. It was a good story line…not only is it paranormal but there is an alpha male and warrior women trying to solve a case.

I am not a fan of snakes so the fact that the villains in this series are Reps (reptiles) is fine with me. I have no show of pity for them and do not like the villains so I am fine when they die.

I finished the book in one day. Luckily it was my day off when I started reading it.

My one complaint is now I have to wait for the next in the series.

Recommends This Book--Yes

N.N. Light: 5 stars. You walk into a (book) bar and order a fantasy romance and when you taste the shot you go WOW! That is what happens to the reader who takes a chance with Solace. The fantasy world created is very approachable for every reader. This author has the gift to make a fantasy very readable and the reader is never bogged down trying to figure out terms.

The plot is well crafted, and the action is intense. The romance? Muy Caliente! This book could be described as a sort of Charmed meets Andromeda meets Basic Instinct - The three sisters are incredible. To quote Tanner, 'The Warrior woman I always dreamed of,”' is an apt description.
The romance of Solace and Tanner was touching and enjoyable to read. Two totally different beings, drawn together and able to overcome A LOT. The book was very well written and crafted and leaves the reader wanting to know what happens next. A recommended book to any action or romance fan, especially those who worship girl power.
Read Super Kam Review here

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Bliss: Fae Warriors Book 2

4.5 Stars I had a feeling Bliss was going to be as memorable as Solace (book 1) and I was correct. I thoroughly enjoyed Bliss and I know you will too .Read Super Kam review here

Still Moments Magazine Filled with action, drama, Fae warriors, and evil Reps. Bliss’ devoted alien ‘dog’ Noodge is an adorable and fun scene stealer. Still Moments Magazine

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Portence: Fae Warriors Book 3

NNLIght Book Heaven

The plot of this epic had been building since Solace first laid eyes on a Rep-toad way back in the opening pages of Solace. The loyal reader has come all the way along thru Solace and Tanner to Bliss and Nate to make it to this point. Finally it was time for the sisters of Anu to unite to face the big bad we all knew was going to be exposed.

Portence is, by far, the most complex of all the sisters. Her past weighs so heavily upon her, she doesn't have the trace of lightness of Solace or the great lightness of Bliss. Port is all Fae but all weighed down. That much of her angst might be because of Mother...issues doesn't make it any easier for her. The author did a masterful job of having this partnership be more of a fatherly one then a lover, like her sisters.

People who enjoy the titanic clashes in Lord of The Rings III or even Harry Potter 7 parts 1 and 2 will be totally caught up in this book. The action keeps the reader guessing and the suspense is palpable.

This incredible three-book series is a must-own for nearly every action/sci-fi fan. Portence will leave the reader with a smile on their face. A brilliantly constructed and portrayed series that ticks every box.

Superkambrook.com Great ending to a spectacular trilogy!

With humor, romance, action, and reptilian aliens running amuck, this book is a must buy. I expected loads of action and Gini delivered….Portence and Malachi’s love scene: It has fun, sex, creative….. magical. Most importantly, it was memorable and that says a lot because, as an avid reader, I have read A LOT of love scenes Read Super Kam Review here

Medievals

Promise Me Christmas

Mistress of Book Reviews: “With little at hand, but faith that is strong, the Blackthorns' of Darkenwald fight to leave a legacy for their children.”

Still Moments Magazine: “The plot and characters were well-developed, giving the story a smooth reading flow. The author has a great descriptive voice that places you in the scenes.”

Reader’s Café: “The relationship between Vespa and Guy is subtle yet passionate-the characters are determined and dynamic. A fast paced, yet sweet storyline of love and determination, betrayal and vengeance.”

Anthionette Ejimofor In a nutshell, this book is an embodiment of every ingredient required for a good book; love, friendship, pain, and a spice of romance.

N.N. Light Promise Me Christmas is a heartwarming story of love and honor and keeping one’s promise, all wrapped in a medieval adventure sprinkled with humor and sweet romantic moments.

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Iron Heart

“Iron Heart gives the classic epic adventures a run for their money.” Sizzling Hot Books
“Rifkin weaves a tale of romance and adventure that could easily be shared around a blazing campfire.” The Romance Reviews
“A wonderfully captivating blend of medieval history and fantasy.” The Medieval Chronicle

Romance Reviews: Gini Rifkin weaves a tale of romance and adventure that could easily be shared around a blazing campfire.

The Romance Studios: Along the journey, they find love and redemption in each other's arms. He heals her and she brings him honor.

Lisa @ Once upon a Chapter: Iron Heart is a fabulous tale for historical romance fans. With a great plot, well developed story and a breathtaking romance it is easy to see why this novel stands out amongst the rest. Iron Heart is a mythical adventure that’s a lot of fun, very exciting and certainly a journey you won’t want to miss.

Sizzling Hot Books: Iron Heart gives the classic epic adventure a run for their money.

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The Dragon and the Rose

Between the Lines: Martha E. If you enjoy lyrical writing, a bit of magic and medieval romance I recommend this wonderful read! I especially liked the magic of the dragon near the end of the book.

Long and Short Reviews: Camillia: Gini Rifkin does a masterful job of plot, character development and building an environment that is fierce at times, magical at other times and always a mysteriously nurturing setting for the enduring love of Branoc and Mantazia to put down deep roots, allowing both of them to realize their destiny. This is an ENCHANTING story!

Romantic Times Book Reviews. “Rifkin is immensely knowledgeable about the story’s time period.”

Victorians

Lady Gallant

Still Moments Magazine Set during the Crimean War, Lady Gallant provides an interesting look into history during the time of Florence Nightingale and the war itself. The setting is gripping as each scene shows the sadness and horrific side of battle and loss. The characters are sweet, compelling and caring. Their relationship shines through the story. If you want to get lost in history with a good romance, this is the book for you!

Long and Short Reviews: Garrick Allen is sickened by the Crimean War, but Nurse Josie might be the perfect medicine for his ailing soul.

Josie is one of the many nurses bravely setting out for the Crimean Peninsula in order to aid the British soldiers fighting there. That alone is testament to the strength of her character. There she finds the wounded soldiers living in conditions worse than she ever could have imagined. However, Josie is not only strong, but resourceful. With even the most basic necessities in short supply, Josie manages to procure food, firewood, and even medical supplies in order to care for her patients.

Josie was prepared for many things when she decided to go to the Crimean Peninsula, but she was not prepared for Garrick Allen. Josie’s first meeting with Garrick is less then cordial. His manners and appearance are more than a little rough, but something about him intrigues Josie. After the death of her fiancé, she never expected her heart to be stirred by another man. Is Garrick her second chance for love?

Garrick Allen doesn’t want anything to do with women and romance. He lives his life as a loner, free from attachments of any kind, and that’s the way he likes it. He was completely unprepared for a woman like Josie. She’s beautiful, smart, strong, and more than a match for him. Garrick soon finds himself thinking about her more then he’d care to admit. Will Garrick open his heart to Josie or close it off forever?

As if life on the Crimean Peninsula wasn’t complicated enough for Josie, Danford Smythe enters the picture. Danford is wealthy and makes it clear that he is interested in Josie. While Danford seems like a perfect gentleman, something about him makes Josie uncomfortable. Is Danford more then he seems, or is just Josie’s imagination?

I truly enjoyed getting to know Josie as a character. Her devotion to her soldiers and all human beings is admirable. She manages to thrive in an environment that has defeated many others. Garrick is the perfect hero for Josie. He is the classic tough guy with a soft heart. I loved watching his tough exterior slowly melt away to reveal the caring man underneath.

Danford Smythe also proved to be an interesting villain. Throughout the story, I thought I had his character figured out. However, at the end of the story, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Danford still had a few tricks up his sleeve.

When I first picked up Lady Gallant, I have to admit that I was only vaguely familiar with the Crimean War. I have read many stories set against the back drop of various wars throughout history. I was intrigued at the possibility that this story might offer something fresh. I was not disappointed. It is clear throughout the text and the notes at the end of the story that Ms. Rifkin researched her setting in order to make it as clear to the reader as possible.

I must also add that I enjoyed reading the quotes from various historical figures at the beginning of each chapter. I found them interesting and thought-provoking and they all seemed to fit the tone of the story well.

Reading Lady Gallant was a pleasure. The characters are relatable and the romance is touching. I highly recommend it to any fan of historical romance.

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Victorian Dream

Romantic Times Book Reviews: Rifkin’s novel is epic in scope, meticulously researched and finely detailed.”

Long and Short Reviews: “I highly recommend it to any fan of historical romance.”
Garrick: He started off gruff but it didn’t take long before he showed us his romantic side. He could easily be described as a knight in shining armor because he literally rescued Josie on more than one occasion. Read review at Kam's Place

Night Owl Reviews “Written with a rich depth of detail. Nicely spiced with an underlying sense of mystery and danger.”

Still Moments Magazine “Beautifully written, this emotionally packed story is a must read.” Read review here