The problem with anthologies: how do you rate the book when one story is absolutely terrific and the rest aren't worth the paper they are printed on?

I recommend Royal Bridesmaids ONLY for Loretta Chase's story Lord Lovedon's Duel, a charming romp that matches any of her full-length novels. In fact, I'd say that Chloe's drunken escapade at her sister's wedding party TRUMPS the entire Noirot series. The premise—a middle-class woman challenges a haughty lord to a duel for slighting her sister—is ludicrous, but so funny in its execution, and the resolution is sweet but not saccharine.

As for Stephanie Laurens and Gaelen Foeley's offerings, DNF. Purple prose, irritating use of ellipsis ("He felt... frightened", "How... strange.", "We were... lost." EURGH), and anachronistic language? TSTL heroines and fantasy worlds with no logical political framework (seriously, in RL heads would have come off)? No thanks! I actually felt embarrassed for Loretta Chase. I wouldn't want to be lumped in with two hacks.

5 stars for "Lord Lovedon's Duel"
1 star for "A Return Engagement" and "The Imposter Bride"