How The Scoundrel Seduces
The Duke's Men (3)
Sabrina Jeffries
Pocket Books
E Book
Published August 2014
Acquired: Edelweiss
416 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN: 9781451693492 Authors Website
Synopsis The third deliciously sexy novel in the New York Times bestselling
Duke's Men historical romance series, featuring an investigator who
sets out to find gypsies— and unexpectedly finds love.
Investigator
Tristan Bonnaud has one aim in life— to make sure that his half-brother
George can't ever ruin his life again. So when the pesky Lady Zoe
Keane, the daughter of the Earl of Olivier, shows up demanding that the
Duke's Men find a mysterious gypsy woman, he seizes the opportunity to
also hunt for a gypsy friend who knows secrets about George. Tristan
doesn't expect to uncover Lady Zoe's family secrets, as well... or end
up falling for the woman who will risk all to discover the truth.
Married At Midnight
Kathleen E. Woodiwiss
Jo Beverly
Tanya Anne Crosby
Samantha James
Anthology
Paperback
Avon Romance
Published September 1996
400 Pages
Georgian Historical Romance
FOUR BRIDES, FOUR
BEGINNINGS. . .FOUR STORIES OF ROMANCE FROM THE INCOMPARABLE KATHLEEN E.
WOODIWISS, and JO BEVERLEY, TANYA ANNE CROSBY, and SAMANTHA JAMES —
MARRIED AT MIDNIGHT by — KATHLEEN E. WOODIWISS — The wedding of Jeff
Birmingham of THE FLAME AND THE FLOWER and his new bride Raelynn
inflames the jealous ire of a determined rival. . . — MARR... more »IED
AT MIDNIGHT by
JO BEVERLEY
A women abandoned on the
battlefield discovers that dreams can cone true when an honorable
commanding officer gallantly offers his name. . .
MARRIED AT MIDNIGHT by
TANYA ANNE CROSBY
A
rebellious heiress who must wed by the stroke of midnight learns that a
twist of fate has fulfilled her heart_s deepest desire. . .
MARRIED AT MIDNIGHT by
SAMANTHA JAMES
A young woman_s reckless scheme to defy her father_s ultimatum leads to a hasty union and unexpected passion. . .
Celebrate
the glorious, magical moment of new beginnings with for uncertain
couples joined by a passionate promise--and surprised by unforeseen
love.FOUR BRIDES, FOUR BEGINNINGS. . .FOUR STORIES OF ROMANCE FROM THE
INCOMPARABLE KATHLEEN E. WOODIWISS, and JO BEVERLEY, TANYA ANNE CROSBY,
and SAMANTHA JAMES
MARRIED AT MIDNIGHT by
KATHLEEN E. WOODIWISS
The
wedding of Jeff Birmingham of THE FLAME AND THE FLOWER and his new
bride Raelynn inflames the jealous ire of a determined rival. . .
MARRIED AT MIDNIGHT by
JO BEVERLEY
A
women abandoned on the battlefield discovers that dreams can cone true
when an honorable commanding officer gallantly offers his name. . .
MARRIED AT MIDNIGHT by
TANYA ANNE CROSBY
A
rebellious heiress who must wed by the stroke of midnight learns that a
twist of fate has fulfilled her heart�s deepest desire. . .
MARRIED AT MIDNIGHT by
SAMANTHA JAMES
A young woman�s reckless scheme to defy her father�s ultimatum leads to a hasty union and unexpected passion. . .
Celebrate
the glorious, magical moment of new beginnings with for uncertain
couples joined by a passionate promise--and surprised by unforeseen
love.
My Review Married At Midnight is four short stories written by four amazingly talented authors. Each story was very unique and even though very short, were all very entertaining and witty. The Four stories were 1. Determined Bride-Jo Beverly 2. A Kiss After Midnight -Tanya Anne Crosby 3. Scandal's Bride-Samantha James 4. Beyond The Kiss-Kathleen E. Woodiwiss. All of each story were beautifully written and carried on the theme of getting married quick, and the falling in love came after they get hitched, which a bit refreshing. Even though they were all too short for my taste, and I felt like there were some things missing as far as plot and characterization....that's the way it usually goes though with anthology, you always feel as though there is something missing....its why I don't read them too often. This time I felt like I hadn't read one in a while and its always good to shake things up a bit. Overall one of the best anthology's I have ever read, especially when these stories were written by some of my favorite authors!!! A Wonderful compilation of four love stories that will leave you thirsting for more!!! Very Entertaining and Fun!!! My Grade On This Book 4 Blossoms
Thief Of Shadows
Maiden Lane (4)
Elizabeth Hoyt
Grand Central Publishing E Book
Published June 2012
384 Pages
Georgian Historical Romance
ISBN
1455508322
Synopsis A MASKED MAN . . . Winter
Makepeace lives a double life. By day he's the stoic headmaster of a
home for foundling children. But the night brings out a darker side of
Winter. As the moon rises, so does the Ghost of St. Giles-protector,
judge, fugitive. When the Ghost, beaten and wounded, is rescued by a
beautiful aristocrat, Winter has no idea that his two worlds are about
to collide.
A DANGEROUS WOMAN . . . Lady
Isabel Beckinhall enjoys nothing more than a challenge. Yet when she's
asked to tutor the Home's dour manager in the ways of
society-flirtation, double-entendres, and scandalous liaisons-Isabel
can't help wondering why his eyes seem so familiar-and his lips so
tempting.
A PASSION NEITHER COULD DENY During
the day Isabel and Winter engage in a battle of wills. At night their
passions are revealed . . . But when little girls start disappearing
from St. Giles, Winter must avenge them. For that he might have to
sacrifice everything-the Home, Isabel . . . and his life.
My Review
Summary:
Winter Makespeace, lives a double life, one life during the daylight where he is the manager of Home for lost children of St. Giles, and the other life during the moonlit night, where he goes out looking for the innocent children, but his life becomes threatened when Lady Isabel shows up on the scene. Isabel, is charged by the committee to polish Winter Makepeace and if she is unable to he will be replaced. After seeing the way he cares about the children, she knows its his life's work, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to make him see reason. However Winter is more stubborn than she gave his credit for, and she knows it will take all her iron will to match his stubborness. But when a danger lurks to threaten their future, only their love for each other will see them through to the end....
The Hero (Winter Makepeace)
Winter, has dedicated his whole life to the children of St. Giles, now that they have built up a good and decent roof over their heads, its his job to make sure it stays that way. Even though he lives a life that is secret from everyone, even those who he loves...but he knows its the only way to keep them safe. Winter is a very strong willed, stubborn, but is very protective when it comes to the innocent and will do all he can to protect them.....and when Isabel appears in his life, at first he is very annoyed, but he soon finds she is too irresistable to resist.
The Heroine (Isabel Beckinhall)
Isabel, is charmed when she see's the way Winter is around the children at the home....and she soon see's the type of man he is. A man who is very passionate about everything in his life, including their affair. At first Isabel's desire for Winter is overwhelming and she gives in to the pleasure of his kiss, but when girls start disappearing in St. Giles, she becomes not only his partner in bed but in solving this mystery....
My Thoughts
Elizabeth Hoyt is one of my favorite authors, I recently discovered her last year, and ever since have just felt charmed by her love stories, and Thief of Shadows was no different. In previous books we have seen Winter and I was thrilled to have the chance to read his story....Winter is both complicated and simple at times. He is a charmer among the ladies, very stubborn and protective over his charges, and has dedicated his life to them even over love and marriage. Isabel is a perfect match for Winter, because she is the only woman that could ever bring him up to scratch. Thief Of Shadows was a beauitfully written story, which was a wonderful mix of romance, mystery, passion, and an exciting plot that will definitely keep the reader on their toes. I think what I loved the most about this book, was how wonderfully woven the characters were sewn into the story, one can't help but be endeared by them. A Charming Love Story!!!!
My Grade On This Book
4.5 Blossos
Other Books In The Series
Wicked Intentions
Notorious Pleasures
Scandalous Desires
Lord Of Darkness
Duke Of Midnight
Scandalous Desires
Maiden Lane (3)
Elizabeth Hoyt
Grand Central
Paperback
Published November 2011
370 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN 978-0-446-55893-8
Synopsis Can a pirate learn that the only true treasure lies within a woman’s heart?
“Charming” Mickey O’Connor is the most ruthless river pirate in London. Devastatingly handsome and fearsomely intelligent, he clawed his way up through London’s criminal underworld. Mickey has no use for tender emotions like compassion and love, and he sees people as pawns to be manipulated. Yet he’s never been able to forget the naive captain’s wife who came to him a year ago for help—and spent one memorable night in his bed...talking.
Widowed Silence Hollingbrook is impoverished, lovely, and kind--and a year ago she made a horrible mistake. She went to a river pirate for help in saving her husband and in the process made a bargain that cost her her marriage. That night wounded her so terribly that she hides in the foundling home she helps run with her brother. Except now that same river pirate is back...and he’s asking for her help
MY REVIEW Summary:
Silence, after losing her husband was at her wits end, until Mikey O'Connor left at her doorstep a little girl, who Silence considered her own, until Mickey enters her life again, and takes Mary from her, so when she goes to confront him, she finds out that Mary is in danger from Mickey's enemies, and the only way to make sure Mary is safe and protected is to stay with her father, Mickey O Connor, and even though he isn't to be trusted, she knows that she has no choice. However what Silence never anticipated was to fall in love with the king river pirate himself, and that theirs is a love and a passion that sneaks up on them.....
The Hero (Mickey O'Connor)
Mickey, was born and grew up in St. Giles, and in order to survive, became a river pirate, and eventually worked his way up to be the King of the slums, and now his nemesis is out to get him through anyone that is close to him. Mickey has never truly loved anyone, until Silence comes into his life, and changes his world, to the point he can't imagine living without her and her goodness in his life....
The Heroine( Silence Hollingbrook)
Once Silence was forced to save her husband, by sacrificing herself, not knowing that the love her husband had for her would never be enough, and now that he has died, and now a widow doesn't believe in much anymore, until Mary shows up in her life, and Silence finds joy in life again, but when she is forced to live with the one person that ruined her life, she knows she is in over her head, but is willing to sacrifice anything for Mary's sake, but she never though she would fall in love with the King of St. Giles, or that she would see beneath the mask
My Thoughts
Scandalous Desires is the third installment in this series, I did read the first book but I didn't read the second, so I was glad that when I read this one, that I wasn't totally lost or anything. It did help to read the first book though, and I was thrilled to get my hands on Silence's book...I just fell in love with this character in the previous book, but I never thought she would be paired with Mickey, who is the kind of hero you wonder how could this romance ever work out.....but luckily it did and in the most surprising way...with twists and turns in the plot that will leave you feeling pleased. I really loved getting to know these characters alot more....especially Mickey, and digging a little bit deeper into his past, and I also loved the romance in this story...it was a bit different but this story was full of mystery, adventure and witty interaction that will leave you wanting for more and more....just LOVED it!!!
My Grade On This Book
4.5 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
Wicked Intentions
Notorious Pleasures
Thief Of Shadows
Of Noble Birth
Brenda Novak
Harper Collins
Paperback
Published Nov 1999
402 Pages
Georgian Historical Romance
ISBN 0-06-109859-0
Synopsis
He Was a Man Who Took What He Wanted.
And He Wanted Her.
To escape her cruel stepfather, seamstress Alexandra Cogsworth envisioned sailing far from England . . . though not as a captive aboard a pirate's ship.
Pirate Captain Nathaniel Kent's strategy for exacting revenge on his cold-hearted father involved taking a valuable hostage . . . not a seamstress he mistakenly thinks is his half sister.
Yet fate has designs of its own, landing them both on board the Royal Vengeance. At sea, Nathaniel intercepts and plunders his father's ships, all the while tormented by his illicit hunger for the tempting prisoner he thinks is his blood relation. And although Alexandra wants no part in this terrifying voyage, to reveal her true identity to the handsome, blue-eyed Nathaniel would invite danger. Not only would she become worthless cargo, but the revelation would surely unleash what she and Nathaniel have been fiercely battling—a rising undercurrent of impossible desire that could sweep them away for good.
MY REVIEW Summary: Alexandra, is desperate to escape her cruel stepfather who beats her, she finds a way to escape with a disguise never expecting to be kidnapped and taken aboard a pirate's ship. Only they think she is a daughter of a lord so they can ransom her, but no matter how much she protests they don't believe her to be a seamstress. Nathaniel, is very bitter toward his father, but when one of his closest friends gets captured he goes out to capture his father daughter, and his step sister....only he never expected that he would be so attracted to a relation, but something nags at him, that she is not at all who she appears to be and that she is hiding something, and that this increasing desire that he has for her might just inflame them both...
The Hero (Nathaniel Kent)
When Nathaniel was born, one of his arms were deformed at birth and his father tried to have him killed, but his nurse saved his life that night and ever since then his father has rejected him and Nathaniel has seeked for revenge and justice. When his friend gets captured he decided to take his step sister and trade her only he never expected the tender feelings she brings out in him... The Heroine (Alexandra Cogsworth)
Alexandra, has been wanting to leave her step father for quite some time now, but never thought in her plan of leaving that she would be kidnapped and assumed for someone else. But as time goes on aboard the pirate's ship she stops trying to convince them of her true identity knowing they will eventually find out...but the one thing she can't ignore though is the desire she feels for Nathaniel despite the fact that he kidnapped her from her only chance at freedom, but wonders if her growing love for Nathaniel is her true freedom.... My Thoughts
This is the first book that I have read by Brenda Novak and I just fell in love with this book, and I want to read more by this author....the synopsis and the cover are what drew me to open the pages, but once I really got into the story I could barely put it down and found entranced by the amazingly written love story of two people that come from different situations in life however they share one thing... a common love and desire for each other. Of Noble Birth is of the Georgian Time period and is packed with excitement, adventure, passion, and a intense love story that will leave you with delight.
Ripe For Pleasure
League Of Second Sons (1)
Isobel Carr
Grand Central Publishing
Paperback
Published May 2011
298 Pages
Georgian Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-446-57275-0
Synopsis
THE LEAGUE of SECOND SONS
A secret society of younger sons, sworn to aid and abet each other, no matter the scandal or cost...Their fathers and brothers may rule the world, but they run it, and when it comes to passion they refuse to accept second best.
London's most sensual former courtesan, Viola Whedon, is incapable of being seduced-she does the seducing. Until she meets Leonidas Vaughn. Her salacious memoirs have made her the target of half the lords in England, and Vaughn is the only man she can turn to. When he promises to protect her-and to make her beg for his touch-the alluring beauty finds both offers impossible to refuse.
Leonidas Vaughn secretly believes Viola possesses a fortune given to his family by the King of France. So the strong and sexy Vaughn charms his way into Viola's life . . . and her bed. But when their arrangement is consummated, he'll experience pleasure far beyond his wildest fantasies-and realize his heart may need the most protection of all.
MY REVIEW
So This is the first time in a very long time since I had such a hard time reading a book, especially with such a gorgeous cover and great blurb that just caught my attention. However this review will be shorter than most because I was unable to finish it. At the first few pages it caught me but after that it just went downhill after that...I got halfway through which took me a whole week to do since it just didn't get to me....I was unable to get into the story no matter how hard I tried. I always try to finish a book if I can, however with this one it was a chore to read it....and when it becomes hard to read a book and if I give it a chance (100 pages or more) than I will just put it down...since there are always more books I want to get to as well. I feel bad that I was unable to finish this one...maybe one day I will try reading it again...who knows. But for me I just was unable to get involved into the story (which is a rare occasion its true) and I really though I would love this story after reading the synopsis...but unfortunately that was untrue...maybe one day in the future.................. My Grade On This Book
DNF Other Books In The Series
Ripe For Scandal
The Serpent Prince
Princes Trilogy (3)
Elizabeth Hoyt
Grand Central Publishing
Paperback
Published September 2007
362 Pages
Georgian Historical Romance
ISBN978-0-446-40053-4
Synopsis WHEN THE DEVIL MEETS AN ANGEL
Country bred Lucy Craddock-Hayes is content with her quiet life. Until the day she trips over an unconscious man -- a naked unconscious man - and loses her innocence forever.
HE CAN TAKE HER TO HEAVEN
Viscount Simon Iddesleigh was nearly beaten to death by his enemies. Now he's hell-bent on vengeance. But as Lucy nurses him back to health, her honesty startles his jaded sensibilities - even as it ignites a desire that threatens to consume them both.
OR TO HELL
Charmed by Simon's sly wit, urbane manners, and even his red-heeled shoes, Lucy falls hard and fast for him. Yet as his honor keeps him from ravishing her, his revenge sends his attackers to her door. As Simon wages war on his foes, Lucy wages her own war for his soul using the only weapon she has -- her love.
MY REVIEW Summary
Lucy, while taking a peaceful walk stumbles across a man she assumes is dead, but upon futher investigation finds that he is injured, and takes him back to her home to help heal him back to health. Simon, is bent on revenge, however Lucy startles his sensibilities to the point where he craves her very touch, and aches to hear the sound of her voice. He knows that his life is not what he would have for her, since everything in him vows to take revenge for his brothers death on those that killed him, but Lucy's love will be the one to save him as nothing else could... The Hero (Simon Iddesleigh)
Simon when he was younger, was a rake and scoundrel, with drinking, gambling and many women, but once his brother was murdered and he was now the heir to the title, who has many responsibilities he vowed that he would get justice on those that killed his brother. However, after surviving a severe beating that almost killed him he is put in the care of a innocent young lady who has no clue on the dark side of things of the world as he knows it. But the more they are in each others company, the more he senses that she could be his greatest weakness... The Heroine (Lucy Craddock-Hayes) Lucy, country bred, and still unmarried has yet to find someone that she loves and would want to spend the rest of her life with. But when she finds a injured and very naked adonis like man at her feet, she can do nothing but help him. However as she helps in his healing and taking care of him, she starts to develop very genuine feelings for him, that she has not felt for another. Feelings that she has been searching for all of her life...and when she discovers what is really tormenting this man who holds her heart she will do everything that she can to help heal his injured soul...
My Thoughts
The Serpent Prince is the third installment in the series. After reading the first book in the series, I loved it so much that I desperately couldn't wait to read the rest of the books in the series, and I just loved reading The Serpent Prince. From the very first page, I found myself captivated until the very last page, and even though I wasn't totally into the story, there was still a sense of mystery and romance that pulled me in. The characters were engaging, and their interaction with each other scrumptious. I also enjoyed how their was a sense of purpose in the characters and their interaction with each other was fascinating...although there were parts that I couldn't bring myself to like....the other much captivating parts made up for it. The sensuality between Lucy and Simon were intense and can at times leave a reader breathless in anticipation for more to come....Overall a Succulent and juice read that will warm you from head to toe.... My Grade On This Book
4 Blossoms Other Books In The Series
The Raven Prince
The Leopard Prince
The Ice Princess
To Beguile A Beast
Four Soldiers (3)
Elizabeth Hoyt
Grand Central
Paperback
Published May 2009
331 Pages
Georgian Romance
ISBN: 978-0-446-40693-2
Synopsis
CAN A WOUNDED BEAST . . .
Reclusive Sir Alistair Munroe has hidden in his castle ever since returning from the Colonies, scarred inside and out. But when a mysterious beauty arrives at his door, the passions he's kept suppressed for years begin to awaken.
TRUST A BEAUTY WITH A PAST . . .
Running from past mistakes has taken legendary beauty Helen Fitzwilliam from the luxury of the ton to a crumbling Scottish castle . . . and a job as a housekeeper. Yet Helen is determined to start a new life and she won't let dust-or a beast of a man-scare her away.
TO TAME HIS MOST SECRET DESIRES?
Beneath Helen's beautiful facade, Alistair finds a courageous and sensual woman. A woman who doesn't back away from his surliness-or his scars. But just as he begins to believe in true love, Helen's secret past threatens to tear them apart. Now both Beast and Beauty must fight for the one thing neither believed they could ever find-a happy ever after.
MY REVIEW Summary
Helen, running from past mistakes with her two children, she heads up to Scotland, to be the housekeeper for a beast of a man. Although Helen has no idea what she is really doing, she wants to have a new start for both herself and her children. Alistair, is a recluse because of the scars on his face, where even both children and adults run in fear from him. However Helen is not afraid in the least by Alistair, she is very intrigued by him and despite the scars on his face, finds him mesmerizing. A passion starts to form between these two both in need of companionship, tenderness and love....and right when they think that they might have a future together, the past comes to bite them and only their love for each other, to fight will get them through to help them find a future for each other... The Hero (Alistair Munroe)
Alistair, is a naturalist and has a affinity for nature and animals, and despite the scars both outside and inside from the colonies, he still has a deep passion for it. When a woman with two children come barging into his castle, claiming to be his new housekeeper, he is enraged at first, for the woman is tenacious to say the least. However he starts to crave her company and that of her two children, and finds he can't resist her.... The Heroine (Helen Fitzwilliam)
Helen, decided to flee from a man she knew only considered her a possession, that didn't truly love her like she did him, and decided to run to a place she thought he would never look for her or her children. Where Helen could once find happiness once again, and despite the hard work ahead of her with Alistair and is crumbling castle, she finds that she can be herself here without revealing her past secrets, and find a tender passion with a man who could be her future. My Thoughts
To Beguile A Beast is the third installment in this series. I have just loved this series, and this was the last one of this great series for me to read, and even though I read this one last (when its not the last in the series) it ended great!!! Ever since seeing Helen in the previous book...I was excited to read her story, and I wasn't disappointed with To Beguile A Beast. I found a hard timeputting this one down from the very first page. I found the story to be enticing, the characters full of depth and endearing, and the romance riveting!!! Definitely a high rating on my scale!!! I loved it!!!
My Grade On This Book
5 Blossoms Other Books In The Series
To Taste Temptation
To Seduce A Sinner
To Desire A Devil
To Desire A Devil
Legend Of Four Soldiers (4)
Elizabeth Hoyt
Grand Central
Paperback
Pub Nov 2009
338 Pages
Georgian Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-446-40694-9
Synopsis NOTHING IS MORE INTOXICATING
Reynaud St. Aubyn has spent the last seven years in hellish captivity. Now half mad with fever he bursts into his ancestral home and demands his due. Can this wild-looking man truly be the last earl's heir, thought murdered by Indians years ago?
OR DANGEROUS
Beatrice Corning, the niece of the present earl, is a proper English miss. But she has a secret: No real man has ever excited her more than the handsome youth in the portrait in her uncle's home. Suddenly, that very man is here, in the flesh-and luring her into his bed.
THAN SURRENDERING TO A DEVIL.
Only Beatrice can see past Reynaud's savagery to the noble man inside. For his part, Reynaud is drawn to this lovely lady, even as he is suspicious of her loyalty to her uncle. But can Beatrice's love tame a man who will stop at nothing to regain his title-even if it means sacrificing her innocence?
MY REVIEW Summary:
Beatrice, is shocked when Reynaud drops in, confused and in a rage, expecting to come back and find his title and home ready for him. Beatrice, is the niece of the present Earl, and is amazed that he is alive. Having viewed his portrait many times, she finds him around even hurt, exciting and filling her with such need...Reynaud, only knows of his past and doesn't believe he has any family or friends left that he can trust. The only one he seems to be able to believe in is Beatrice, who is lovely inside as she is out and knows that despite her loyalty to her uncle, she can help him regain his title and lands again and a future...
The Hero (Reynaud St. Aubyn)
Reynaud, has been held captive and a prisoner for many years, and has only recently been able to return to his home, to find his father dead, his sister married and living in Boston, and his only home and land no longer his, and will do whatever it takes to regain them. When a lovely woman, Beatrice, helps nurse him back to health, despite his inability to stay sane, he finds her intoxicating to his senses and wants to keep her for himself as well...
The Heroine ( Beatrice Corning)
Beatrice, although she deeply loves her uncle, the one person who took her in and loved her like a daughter, she still feels a undeniable attraction toward Reynaud. An attraction that she can't deny, even to herself. After admiring him from afar, she now can reach to him, and touch him, and desires him above anyone else.
My Thoughts
To Desire A Devil is the last installment in the Four Soldier Series. I really enjoyed the earlier books in the series, and even though I found this one a entertaining and sizzling read...it was far from my favorite. I found Reynaud too selfish at times, but I admired Beatrice and for standing up to him and not being afraid of his certain savageness. I did enjoy the plot, and I loved the side story of Beatrice's friend...Overall I found To Desire A Devil to be a heated story filled with heated scenes, intriguing plot full of mystery and suspense, and a tender love story
My Grade On This Book
3.5 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
To Taste Temptation
To Seduce A Sinner
To Beguile A Beast
To Seduce A Sinner
Legend Of The Four Soldiers (2)
Elizabeth Hoyt
Grand Central
Paperback
November 2008
359 Pages
Georgian Historical Romance
ISBN 978-0-446-40692-5
Synopsis THE ONE THING HE CANNOT REVEAL ...
For years, Melisande Fleming has loved Lord Vale from afar ... watching him seduce a succession of lovers, and once catching a glimpse of heartbreaking depths beneath his roguish veneer. When he's jilted on his wedding day, she boldly offers to be his.
TO THE ONE WOMAN HE MOST DESIRES ...
Vale gladly weds Melisande, if only to produce an heir. But he's pleasantly surprised: A shy and proper Lady by day, she's a wanton at night, giving him her body --- though not her heart.
IS HIS DEEPEST NEED ...
Determined to learn her secrets, this sinner starts to woo his seductive new wife --- while hiding the nightmares from his soldiering days in the Colonies that still haunt him. Yet when a deadly betrayal from the past threatens to tear them apart, Lord Vale must bare his soul to the woman he married ... or risk losing her forever
MY REVIEW Summary:
Melisande, has always had a fascination for Jasper, Lord Vale. She has been watching him from afar for years, knowing that he doesn't even remember who she is or even her name, despite the fact that she was the closest friend to his former fiancee and childhood friend. However, when she hears that he has been jilted from another engagement, she knows that now is the time for her to act upon her feelings, before its too late. Jasper, when Melisande comes to him with a marriage proposal is somewhat shocked, but accepts, hoping that he won't have a fourth jilted engagement. Jasper, desires to know Melisande, for who she really is, and goes about in a effort to woo her, even though they have already married. Although there is danger lurking around the corner, Jasper knows giving himself up to this woman he has married will be his only hope to heal his battered soul...
The Hero (Jasper, Lord Vale)
Jasper, although his outer appearance communicates that he loves life and has forgotten the past, inside he is tormented. Jasper is determined to find the traitor, no matter what. After all the suffering he has gone through, he wonders if he will ever be able to heal back together again. When Melisande boldly offers him marriage, he accepts, knowing it couldn't get much worse. Even though she doesn't have gorgeous looks, he see's a inner beauty that shines and is desperate to only know more...
The Heroine ( Melisande Fleming)
Melisande, has always been the one to be in the background when things happen, but not on the day she asks Jasper to marry her. She decides to be the center of things for once, and is amazed that he doesn't laugh at her, but agrees. For six years, she has loved him, even knowing he didn't know her like she knew him. But he continually surprises her once they get married, and awakens a desire in her that longs for his touch, and knows that she will never be truly happy until she receives his love in return...
My Thoughts
To Seduce A Sinner is the second in the Legend of Four Soldiers series. In the previous book we were able to see Jasper, and I was excited to read his story... I loved all of the elements that were portrayed in this story. I think I just fell in love with the hero, although he has suffered much inner pain, he still manages to find a bit of joy in life. And even though we see his focus on trying to locate the identity of the traitor, we all see how attentive he is toward Melisande. There were some aspects I liked about Melisande, but throughout the book I felt like there was something missing about her, but one aspect I loved about her was that when she believed in something she didn't back down. I enjoyed the little side story involving the heroine in the next books as well. Overall a very beautifully crafted story with a touch of mystery and mix of romance, wit, and deep characters, to keep you enchanted....
My Grade On This Book
4 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
To Taste Temptation
To Beguile A Beast
To Desire A Devil
To Taste Temptation
Legend Of The Four Soldies (1)
Elizabeth Hoyt
Grand Central Publishing
Paperback
Published May 2008
362 Pages
Georgian Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-446-40691-8
Synopsis
EVEN THE MOST REFINED LADY
Lady Emeline Gordon is the model of sophistication in London's elite social circles, always fashionable and flawlessly appropriate. As such, she is the perfect chaperone for Rebecca, the young sister of a successful Boston businessman and former
Colonial soldier.
CRAVES AN UNTAMED MAN
Samuel Hartley may be wealthy, but his manners are as uncivilized as the American wilderness he was raised in. Who wears moccasins to a grand ball? His arrogant disregard for propriety infuriates Emeline, even as his boldness excites her.
TO RELEASE HER PASSION...
But beneath Samuel's rakish manner, he is haunted by tragedy. He has come to London to settle a score, not to fall in love. And as desperately as Emeline longs to feel this shameless man's hands upon her, to taste those same lips he uses to tease her, she must restrain herself. She is not free. But some things are beyond a lady's control...
MY REVIEW Summary
Lady Emeline, a widow and a single mother, lives among the Elite among the Ton. Emeline then meets Samuel, who has a wildness that draws her in a way she would have never expected. Against her aunt's wishes, she finds Samuel irresistable, even with his wild ways, a man who isn't afraid of anything, and could care less what others think about him or what he wears. Samuel is here in England for one thing, and it isn't to make sure his sister has a fun time. Samuel is out to find the traitor that betrayed them in the Colonies, and where he lost many of his friends, and those that survived have all suffered scars of their own. However, although once he is put in the same room as Emeline, he decides that despite his true reason for being here, he can't resist Emeline, and knows he will never be content until he has claimed her as his...
The Hero (Samuel Hartley)
Samuel, has made himself financially prosperous through his own intellect in Boston, but has come to London for a purpose. Samuel reluctantly decided to bring his beloved sister, Rebecca. Even though Samuel loves her, his real reason for coming to England is hidden from her, for he must find the one who betrayed both himself and every innocent man that was tortured and/or killed violently. Samuel has suffered his own scars and inner turmoil, however has a strong will and will not rest until the true traitor is found.
The Heroine (Emeline Gordon)
Emeline, although things in her life seem to be going pretty well for her, she hides it well. After losing her beloved brother in the colonies, and then her husband, she is now conflicted. As a mother, her son is everything to her, however Samuel stirs up a passion in her that is more intense that she could have ever realized. And knowing that there can be no future for them...she still aches for his touch and to hold a piece of his heart...
My Thoughts
To Taste Temptation is the first in the 'Legend of the Four Soldies' series. I was way excited to get most of this series from the library, and I started with To Taste Temptation. I have heard many good things about this author, and I wasn't disappointed with this one. I found it to be a stunning start, and I just found I fell in love with the characters the more I got more into the book. Who can resist a man who wears mocassins to a ball just because they are comfortable LOL I found his certain disregard for everything proper entertaining to say the least. Emeline, is the kind of heroine who can relate with on some level. She has such a tender heart, even though it sometimes is hidden beneath her proper facade, when you can see she just can't wait for a opportunity to shed all of it to bare the true woman within. Such a delicious read, I had such a grand time reading this!!!!
My Grade On This Book
4 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
To Seduce A Sinner
To Beguile A Beast
To Desire A Devil
The Raven Prince
Princes Trilogy (1)
Elizabeth Hoyt
Warner Books
Paperback
Published 2006
356 Pages
Georgian Historical Romance
Synopsis
THERE COMES A TIME IN A LADY'S LIFE
Widowed Anna Wren is having a wretched day. After an arrogant male on horseback nearly squashes her, she arrives home to learn that she is in dire financial straits.
WHEN SHE MUST DO THE UNTHINKABLE...
The Earl of Swartingham is in a quandary. Having frightened off two secretaries, Edward de Raaf needs someone who can withstand his bad temper and boorish behavior.
AND FIND EMPLOYMENT.
When Anna becomes the earl's secretary, it would seem that both their problems are solved. Then she discovers he plans to visit the most notorious brothel in London for his "manly" needs. Well! Anna sees red-and decides to assuage her "womanly" desires...with the earl as her unknowing lover.
MY REVIEW Summary:
Anna Wren, a widow, is in search for a job that could help with their financial needs, and miraculously finds a job as a secretary to the Earl of Swartingham. At first Anna is overjoyed but knows that it won't be a easy task to be a secretary to a man who hold a temper. Edward, is shocked when he comes home to see that a woman is his secretary, a woman that stands up to him and isn't afraid of his temper. Edward is physically drawn to Anna but knows that she is a lady and knows that he can never make an advance toward her, but the more time they spend with each other, he starts to realize she is the first woman he is comfortable with, someone to talk with, to walk with and one that see him beneath the scars on his face. But then the unexpected happens, and they will both realize that they will be able to find their ever after if they would fight for it...
The Hero (Edward, Earl of Swartingham)
Edward, has lost every person he has every loved to a disease, and he is the sole survivor. Widowed and without a heir he knows he must marry and soon, just in case something were to ever happen to him. Edward has much unresolved hurt and bitterness in his heart but the moment Anna enters into his life, he starts to soften just a bit at a time and he starts to come to the realization how much she means to him...
The Heroine( Anna Wren)
Anna, has always blamed herself for being unable to bear children after being married for four years, and now that she is a widow, she has found someone that she could find herself loving and spending a life with. But then she finds out that he desires children and knowing that it would be unlikely she could be with....she still aches to be with him any way that she can....even knowing that it could end in heartbreak.
My Thoughts
The Raven Prince is the first in the Princes Trilogy, and as the first book I have read from this author, I just fell in love....I found myself not wanting this one to ever end. I loved Anna and Edward and even the mutt 'jock' was a hoot throughout the book. I immensely enjoyed the interaction between the characters, especially Anna and Edward. Anna is not afraid of Edward, despite the fact that pretty much everyone else is....and she stands up to him like a spitfire not afraid of a thing, which only increases the heat and passion that builds between them. At first it took me a little bit to get into the books, but once I did I couldn't put it down, I was totally immersed into a unforgettable romance, that had my full attention!!! A Keeper for sure! Looking forward to reading more from Elizabeth Hoyt.
My Favorite Quote "All this time I've been restraining myself because I thought you were a respectable lady. All this time when you only this," He swooped in then and devoured her mouth, ravishing her softness, making no allowance for her smaller size, her femininity. " This is what you crave. What you traveled all the way to London for," he whispered against her mouth.
My Grade On This Book
4.5 Blossoms
Other Books In The Series
The Leopard Prince
The Serpent Prince
The Ice Prince
A Whisper of Roses
Teresa Medeiros
Bantam,
402 Pages,
Published October 1993
Georgian Historical Romance
ISBN: 0-553-29408-3
Synopsis: A DARING WARRIOR...
As she peered over the edge of the gallery, Sabrina Cameron trembled at the sight of the sun-bronzed giant striding into view. But she never recognized the stranger ... not until the moment she found herself surrounded by arms of warm steel--and drowning in smoldering green eyes that had once held cool disdain but now shimmered with passion. Morgan MacDonnell, the boy, had been her tormentor. Now it looked as if Morgan, the man, would prove infinitely more dangerous....
A DEFIANT BEAUTY...
Though hatred divided their clans, Morgan MacDonnell had come to Cameron Glen hoping for a truce... only to find that by evening's end the only way to avert bloodshed between the two families was for him to marry his enemy's daughter. But even as Morgan spirited Sabrina away to his rugged fortress, his battle would not be won. For this delicate rose of a girl would put up a bold fight ... and the spoils of victory would be nothing less than a heathen MacDonnell's heart.
My Review:
The Cameron and the MacDonnell Clan have been enemies for generations. Sabrina Cameron was tormented when she was young by none other than the Morgan MacDonnell. She hasn't seen him in years, when she comes to face him once more when his father came to make truce between the two clans. To Sabrina, Morgan has changed much, apart from him still calling her "brat" he is a strong, handsome and virile man that stirs up a hidden sensuality she didn't even know she really had. When his father is killed by someone unknown, all truce is called off. Events occur in which Morgan ends up in the dungeon and is released when he agree's to marry Sabrina as a truce between the two clans. Sabrina is horrified when her father announces her future marriage to Morgan. Sabrina feels betrayed by her father, since she is his only daughter and has dreamed of a love that her parents share. But she agree's because she knows that she honestly has no choice in the matter. At first their relationship is withdrawn and cold, since they see each other as enemies of a sort. Morgan believes someone from the Cameron clan murdered his father, yet it is very hard for him to hate Sabrina. She stirs a fire within his body and heart that he can't deny.
I truly enjoyed reading this one, albeit a bit different than other books that I have read from her. I fell in love with both characters, it was a enjoyable read. You have Morgan who after his father's death has become chief of his clan, responsible for however few there are. When he spent time as a young lad with the Cameron's he wanted Sabrina to hate him so she wouldn't see how much he truly liked her. Now that they are both grown up, Morgan can no longer deny his true feelings for her. Sabrina, although tormented by Morgan as a young girl, could never hate him no matter how hard she tried. She just was able to sense something about it, and her heart softened toward him. Now as she see's him a handsome man that takes her breath away with his kisses, she utterly wants him despite the fact that she was forced into the marriage. Even though they fight are argue constantly, so do they kiss and carress and she finds a way into his guarded heart. There were certain parts about this book that I didn't like toward the end, the story just didn't flow as well, at least for me, but at the very end is started to turn around as it was for the rest of the book. It had deep strong characters that were well portrayed, I wish that the surrounding scenes were better described, but other than a couple of things, I truly enjoyed reading it. It had a deep emotion to it, and a plot that just thickens the more you get into it.
How The Scoundrel Seduces
