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Treacherous Temptations
A reluctant heiress resigned to her fate…
Mary Elizabeth Edwardes possesses one of the largest fortune's in England, but has no desire to leave her quiet country existence… and even less to acquire a husband she cannot choose for herself.
A dissolute nobleman bent on retribution…
Trapped in a duplicitous existence since scandal destroyed his fortune and family name, Lord Hadley Blanchard has spent the better part of a decade posing as a disaffected exile while spying and seducing in the service of the English Crown.
A dangerous game of seduction, and intrigue…
By employing the full measure of his seductive charm, he woos the ward of the man who destroyed his life, little knowing that winning Mary's fortune will mean risking his own treacherous heart.
**Erotic content warning**
2014 RONE Winner Best Historical post Medieval Romance
Mary Elizabeth Edwardes possesses one of the largest fortune's in England, but has no desire to leave her quiet country existence… and even less to acquire a husband she cannot choose for herself.
A dissolute nobleman bent on retribution…
Trapped in a duplicitous existence since scandal destroyed his fortune and family name, Lord Hadley Blanchard has spent the better part of a decade posing as a disaffected exile while spying and seducing in the service of the English Crown.
A dangerous game of seduction, and intrigue…
By employing the full measure of his seductive charm, he woos the ward of the man who destroyed his life, little knowing that winning Mary's fortune will mean risking his own treacherous heart.
**Erotic content warning**
2014 RONE Winner Best Historical post Medieval Romance
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2012
About the author
Victoria Vane
54 books546 followersABOUT VICTORIA VANE
Victoria Vane is a bestselling award-winning author of smart and sexy romance. Her books have received many accolades to include the 2016 Red Carpet Award for Jewel of the East, 2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Temptations as well as Library Journal Best E-Book romance of 2012 for The Devil DeVere series. Victoria also writes romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee. Look for her new Highland saga coming summer of 2017.
Contact info:
Email: [email protected] Website: www.victoriavane.com
Blog: www.embracingromance.com
Blog:https://wildandwickedcowboys.wordpres...
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/YVeXrf
Twitter: @authorvictoriav Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1vONQZh
Amazon: http://amzn.to/10QMKT5 Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1sccsM4
YOU TUBE : http://bit.ly/1yNtEMP
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for ROUGH RIDER
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for JEWEL OF THE EAST
2015 Red Carpet Finals for SLOW HAND
2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Tempatations
2014 Rone Nomination for The Sheik Retold also LASR Best Book 2013 Nominee
THE DEVIL DEVERE SERIES
Library Journal Best E-Book Romance 2012, LR Cafe Best Series Nominee 2012
A Wild Night's Bride
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
•IRC Reader's Choice historical romance nominee
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Virgin Huntress
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil You Know
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Best Historical Romance Nominee
• LR Café Best Historical Romance nominee 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil's Match
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Top Pick
• LASR Reviews Book of the Month December 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Best Historical Romance of 2012
• LR Café Best Author Nominee 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Favorite Author 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
A Devil's Touch
Swept Away by Romance Best Novella 2013 nominee
A Breach of Promise , December 2011 Ellora's Cave
• Night Owl Reviews “Top Pick”
• Reading Romances 5 flames and “Pen Award”
• TBR Pile 5stars/Book of the month winner September 2012
• LASR Erotic Reviews 5 STAR/Book of the Month Nominee
• The Romance Studio 5 Sweetheart Nominee
• TRS CAPA Nominee 2012
Victoria Vane is a bestselling award-winning author of smart and sexy romance. Her books have received many accolades to include the 2016 Red Carpet Award for Jewel of the East, 2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Temptations as well as Library Journal Best E-Book romance of 2012 for The Devil DeVere series. Victoria also writes romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee. Look for her new Highland saga coming summer of 2017.
Contact info:
Email: [email protected] Website: www.victoriavane.com
Blog: www.embracingromance.com
Blog:https://wildandwickedcowboys.wordpres...
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/YVeXrf
Twitter: @authorvictoriav Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1vONQZh
Amazon: http://amzn.to/10QMKT5 Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1sccsM4
YOU TUBE : http://bit.ly/1yNtEMP
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for ROUGH RIDER
2016 Red Carpet Finalist for JEWEL OF THE EAST
2015 Red Carpet Finals for SLOW HAND
2014 RONE Award for Treacherous Tempatations
2014 Rone Nomination for The Sheik Retold also LASR Best Book 2013 Nominee
THE DEVIL DEVERE SERIES
Library Journal Best E-Book Romance 2012, LR Cafe Best Series Nominee 2012
A Wild Night's Bride
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
•IRC Reader's Choice historical romance nominee
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Virgin Huntress
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil You Know
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Best Historical Romance Nominee
• LR Café Best Historical Romance nominee 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
The Devil's Match
• Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
• The Romance Reviews Top Pick
• LASR Reviews Book of the Month December 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Best Historical Romance of 2012
• LR Café Best Author Nominee 2012
• Swept Away by Romance Favorite Author 2012
Ind'Tale Magazine Rone nominee
A Devil's Touch
Swept Away by Romance Best Novella 2013 nominee
A Breach of Promise , December 2011 Ellora's Cave
• Night Owl Reviews “Top Pick”
• Reading Romances 5 flames and “Pen Award”
• TBR Pile 5stars/Book of the month winner September 2012
• LASR Erotic Reviews 5 STAR/Book of the Month Nominee
• The Romance Studio 5 Sweetheart Nominee
• TRS CAPA Nominee 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
January 25, 2013
Mary Elizabeth Edwardes an heiress to a very large fortune must take on a husband. But unfortunately she must marry someone not of her choice. A young girl that adores the simple country life, she is resigned to her fate. Until the charming nobleman Lord Hadley crosses her path.
Lord Hadley Blanchard has lived a life of deceit. He lives the carefree life of a rogue, whilst serving the English Crown as a spy. His family name and fortune have been destroyed after a scandal and tragedy is exposed. Hadley is out for vengeance and he intends to woo the young heiress Mary, who happens to be the ward of the man that has destroyed his life.
My favourite quote:
”I only know that you are perhaps not the brute you pretended to be.” All men are brutes, my dear,” he answered with a cynical twist of his lips. “It just takes different circumstances for the beast to emerge.”
When it comes to setting the scene of the Georgian Era, no one does it better than Victoria Vane. This is a lush, engaging read with a plot that is totally wicked. The writing is flawless the setting superb. Treacherous Temptations is a must read. Enjoy!
Copy generously provided by Victoria Vane for an honest review. Thanks Victoria!
Lord Hadley Blanchard has lived a life of deceit. He lives the carefree life of a rogue, whilst serving the English Crown as a spy. His family name and fortune have been destroyed after a scandal and tragedy is exposed. Hadley is out for vengeance and he intends to woo the young heiress Mary, who happens to be the ward of the man that has destroyed his life.
My favourite quote:
”I only know that you are perhaps not the brute you pretended to be.” All men are brutes, my dear,” he answered with a cynical twist of his lips. “It just takes different circumstances for the beast to emerge.”
When it comes to setting the scene of the Georgian Era, no one does it better than Victoria Vane. This is a lush, engaging read with a plot that is totally wicked. The writing is flawless the setting superb. Treacherous Temptations is a must read. Enjoy!
Copy generously provided by Victoria Vane for an honest review. Thanks Victoria!
January 22, 2013
Now available from ENTANGLED Publishing
AUTHOR'S NOTE
TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS was very much inspired by the dark and romantic novels of the 18th century in which virtue vs. vice and plots to despoil virgins were very popular themes, books like Clarissa Harlowe by Samuel Richardson or Les Liaisons Dangereuses by LaClos. Similar to these classic tales, my story features an innocent country girl who, unlike the former heroines, is neither insipid nor naive, but still inadvertently becomes a pawn in a deadly game of revenge and intrigue.
EXCERPT
Blanchard House, Hanover Square- 1728
As the solo harpsichord began a Corelli air, Mary watched mesmerized. In flawless synchrony with the music, and bodies posed in perfect symmetry, the couple performed the intricate figures of the dance with fluid grace—ebbing and flowing in an elegant wave, moving in absolute harmony with one another. Rising and falling in gentle rhythm, arms gracefully rounded, reaching, touching, and turning, they seemingly floated across the floor.
It was lovely beyond description.
Monsieur Gaspar had rightly described the stately minuet as the perfection of dancing and Mary was entranced. But lost in her admiration of the dancers, she forgot she was supposed to be studying their intricate steps and patterns, until the couple executed the final two hand turn and then faced her with the final elegant dips to honor their audience of one.
The dancing master raised Lady Blanchard's hand to his lips. "Vous êtes toujours incomparable, Madame la Comtesse."
Lady Blanchard answered the compliment as if it were her due, with an elegant inclination of her head and only the merest hint of a smile.
"It is true, my lady," Mary gushed. "I've never beheld anything so lovely."
Lady Blanchard turned to Mary and smiled archly. "Dancing is the premier mark of gentility in any woman, my dear Mary, and the minuet is foremost amongst the dances. Thus, you must master it—along with the sarabande, gigue, bourée, and gavotte, before you may attend any of the balls."
Mary's stomach dropped. "All of them? But I have no experience of this kind of dancing."
Lady Blanchard regarded her with raised brows. "Do you mean to say you've never danced?"
"Only country dancing, my lady. Never like this. I fear it is well beyond my ability."
The countess waved her hand. "Nonsense, child. You have the benefit of a master's tutelage and must simply apply yourself." She glanced to the clock with a frown. "I am expecting someone. I leave you now in Monsieur Gaspar's capable hands."
In dismay, Mary watched the countess depart.
"Mademoiselle?" The dancing master flourished a bow and then offered his arm and an indulgent smile on painted lips. Yet an hour later found him tearing at his periwig and Mary near to tears.
"Non! Non! Et non!" cried the Frenchman. "You must rise on the toe and sweep the foot. Thusly." He demonstrated with exaggerated patience. "And the arms, they are too stiff!"
"Like this?" Mary rounded her arms and began the steps again.
"Par blue! Elle se deplacer comme une vache! You move like the cow and the figure, it is all wrong! It is zed."
"Zed?" Mary repeated blankly.
"Oui, zed!" he insisted.
"I don't comprehend you, monsieur," Mary cried in growing frustration. "I've told you already I have no French."
Throwing up his hands in Gallic fashion he shouted, "Zed! Zed!" as if bellowing would bring enlightenment. "Etres vous simple? It is the last letter of the English alphabet! Comprenez? Zed! S'il vous plait dancez la figure maintenant."
"I'm sorry, Monsieur Gaspar. Would you please show me once more?" Mary asked, flustered beyond despair and on the verge of tears.
"Perhaps, monsieur," a deep-timbered, cultured, and slightly accented voice arrested the dancing master's impending tantrum, "the difficulty lies not so much in the student's lack of aptitude, but in the instructor's method of tuition."
Mary turned to face her would-be rescuer, a vision that stole her breath. Tall and elegant, he was dressed in hues of richly embroidered satin, bedecked with yards of frothy lace, and jewels that would be the envy of any woman, yet paradoxically, there was nothing effeminate about him. He advanced into the room with a languid gait to halt before them, flicking over the Frenchman with inscrutably dark eyes and an expression of frigid hauteur.
It was his eyes that first entranced her, deep-set and piercing indigo-blue beneath straight, dark, brows, that seemed starkly incongruous compared to the fashionable white powdered wig. To Mary, his face was a fascinating study of contrasts, at once strong, proud, and distinctly aristocratic. Yet, the imposing vision he presented was somehow softened by a generous mouth and the most fascinating dimple in his chin. Mary was next riveted to that dimple, and then lastly to the softening curve of his mouth when the stranger inclined his head to her alone, as if the dancing master were completely beneath his notice.
It was an intentional snub that made the Frenchman tremble with indignation. "I will have you know, monsieur, that I am le maitre-de-dance to the very Princesses Royales!"
"I should never make such a confession, were I you," the stranger drawled.
The frenetic little Frenchman puffed his chest. "You think it an idle boast?"
The gentleman chuckled, a low, warm, rumbling sound. "No indeed, monsieur, for I have seen how execrably they dance!"
AUTHOR'S NOTE
TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS was very much inspired by the dark and romantic novels of the 18th century in which virtue vs. vice and plots to despoil virgins were very popular themes, books like Clarissa Harlowe by Samuel Richardson or Les Liaisons Dangereuses by LaClos. Similar to these classic tales, my story features an innocent country girl who, unlike the former heroines, is neither insipid nor naive, but still inadvertently becomes a pawn in a deadly game of revenge and intrigue.
EXCERPT
Blanchard House, Hanover Square- 1728
As the solo harpsichord began a Corelli air, Mary watched mesmerized. In flawless synchrony with the music, and bodies posed in perfect symmetry, the couple performed the intricate figures of the dance with fluid grace—ebbing and flowing in an elegant wave, moving in absolute harmony with one another. Rising and falling in gentle rhythm, arms gracefully rounded, reaching, touching, and turning, they seemingly floated across the floor.
It was lovely beyond description.
Monsieur Gaspar had rightly described the stately minuet as the perfection of dancing and Mary was entranced. But lost in her admiration of the dancers, she forgot she was supposed to be studying their intricate steps and patterns, until the couple executed the final two hand turn and then faced her with the final elegant dips to honor their audience of one.
The dancing master raised Lady Blanchard's hand to his lips. "Vous êtes toujours incomparable, Madame la Comtesse."
Lady Blanchard answered the compliment as if it were her due, with an elegant inclination of her head and only the merest hint of a smile.
"It is true, my lady," Mary gushed. "I've never beheld anything so lovely."
Lady Blanchard turned to Mary and smiled archly. "Dancing is the premier mark of gentility in any woman, my dear Mary, and the minuet is foremost amongst the dances. Thus, you must master it—along with the sarabande, gigue, bourée, and gavotte, before you may attend any of the balls."
Mary's stomach dropped. "All of them? But I have no experience of this kind of dancing."
Lady Blanchard regarded her with raised brows. "Do you mean to say you've never danced?"
"Only country dancing, my lady. Never like this. I fear it is well beyond my ability."
The countess waved her hand. "Nonsense, child. You have the benefit of a master's tutelage and must simply apply yourself." She glanced to the clock with a frown. "I am expecting someone. I leave you now in Monsieur Gaspar's capable hands."
In dismay, Mary watched the countess depart.
"Mademoiselle?" The dancing master flourished a bow and then offered his arm and an indulgent smile on painted lips. Yet an hour later found him tearing at his periwig and Mary near to tears.
"Non! Non! Et non!" cried the Frenchman. "You must rise on the toe and sweep the foot. Thusly." He demonstrated with exaggerated patience. "And the arms, they are too stiff!"
"Like this?" Mary rounded her arms and began the steps again.
"Par blue! Elle se deplacer comme une vache! You move like the cow and the figure, it is all wrong! It is zed."
"Zed?" Mary repeated blankly.
"Oui, zed!" he insisted.
"I don't comprehend you, monsieur," Mary cried in growing frustration. "I've told you already I have no French."
Throwing up his hands in Gallic fashion he shouted, "Zed! Zed!" as if bellowing would bring enlightenment. "Etres vous simple? It is the last letter of the English alphabet! Comprenez? Zed! S'il vous plait dancez la figure maintenant."
"I'm sorry, Monsieur Gaspar. Would you please show me once more?" Mary asked, flustered beyond despair and on the verge of tears.
"Perhaps, monsieur," a deep-timbered, cultured, and slightly accented voice arrested the dancing master's impending tantrum, "the difficulty lies not so much in the student's lack of aptitude, but in the instructor's method of tuition."
Mary turned to face her would-be rescuer, a vision that stole her breath. Tall and elegant, he was dressed in hues of richly embroidered satin, bedecked with yards of frothy lace, and jewels that would be the envy of any woman, yet paradoxically, there was nothing effeminate about him. He advanced into the room with a languid gait to halt before them, flicking over the Frenchman with inscrutably dark eyes and an expression of frigid hauteur.
It was his eyes that first entranced her, deep-set and piercing indigo-blue beneath straight, dark, brows, that seemed starkly incongruous compared to the fashionable white powdered wig. To Mary, his face was a fascinating study of contrasts, at once strong, proud, and distinctly aristocratic. Yet, the imposing vision he presented was somehow softened by a generous mouth and the most fascinating dimple in his chin. Mary was next riveted to that dimple, and then lastly to the softening curve of his mouth when the stranger inclined his head to her alone, as if the dancing master were completely beneath his notice.
It was an intentional snub that made the Frenchman tremble with indignation. "I will have you know, monsieur, that I am le maitre-de-dance to the very Princesses Royales!"
"I should never make such a confession, were I you," the stranger drawled.
The frenetic little Frenchman puffed his chest. "You think it an idle boast?"
The gentleman chuckled, a low, warm, rumbling sound. "No indeed, monsieur, for I have seen how execrably they dance!"
February 17, 2013
Treacherous Temptations opens with a prologue that had me intrigued and kept me quickly turning the pages for more. Victoria Vane has given us a truly bad boy, Sir Hadley Blanchard. From an early age his nights are spent delving into all levels of debauchery while his days are spent in fraudulent dealings steeped in dishonesty and treachery.
He’s come a long way from his early days of despair and idleness. Now, his main goal is exacting revenge on the man whose betrayal robbed him of his title and fortune as well as obtaining the means of restoring all that he’d lost.
Penniless he seeks the innocent heiress, Miss Mary Elizabeth Edwardes, and plots with another to ensnare her in his plan of retribution. Nineteen year old Mary is a complete innocent and soon falls prey to Hadley’s charm. He’s a master in the art of seduction and poor Mary doesn’t stand a chance. But one thing Hadley didn’t count on was his reaction to Mary.
Mary’s simplistic lifestyle has not prepared her for the devious manipulation of those that are now major players in her life. Her honesty and trusting nature soon touches something deep inside the hardened Hadley. I found myself rooting hard for her on many occasions while at others I became frustrated at her lack of maturity. I enjoyed watching this young woman evolve and take a stand for herself.
With a trope that doesn’t normally appeal to me, I picked this up with misgivings. But loving Victoria Vane’s writing, I took the plunge and wasn’t disappointed. Hadley and Mary’s journey is filled with heartache, villains, and deception. There’s also that sultry, erotic heat factor that this author does so well!
The only minor quibble was the ending felt a little rushed and I wanted to know more of the villain's punishment. However, this in no way detracted from my overall enjoyment.
One of the things I enjoyed most was watching the healing and awakening of Hadley’s emotions as an innocent country girl brings this worldly rogue to his knees.
As always, Victoria Vane captures my attention with her rich prose, historical details, and her unique writing style. If you've not had the pleasure of reading her books, I recommend them all!
***Arc kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Ms. Vane. It was a pleasure!***
He’s come a long way from his early days of despair and idleness. Now, his main goal is exacting revenge on the man whose betrayal robbed him of his title and fortune as well as obtaining the means of restoring all that he’d lost.
Penniless he seeks the innocent heiress, Miss Mary Elizabeth Edwardes, and plots with another to ensnare her in his plan of retribution. Nineteen year old Mary is a complete innocent and soon falls prey to Hadley’s charm. He’s a master in the art of seduction and poor Mary doesn’t stand a chance. But one thing Hadley didn’t count on was his reaction to Mary.
Mary’s simplistic lifestyle has not prepared her for the devious manipulation of those that are now major players in her life. Her honesty and trusting nature soon touches something deep inside the hardened Hadley. I found myself rooting hard for her on many occasions while at others I became frustrated at her lack of maturity. I enjoyed watching this young woman evolve and take a stand for herself.
With a trope that doesn’t normally appeal to me, I picked this up with misgivings. But loving Victoria Vane’s writing, I took the plunge and wasn’t disappointed. Hadley and Mary’s journey is filled with heartache, villains, and deception. There’s also that sultry, erotic heat factor that this author does so well!
The only minor quibble was the ending felt a little rushed and I wanted to know more of the villain's punishment. However, this in no way detracted from my overall enjoyment.
One of the things I enjoyed most was watching the healing and awakening of Hadley’s emotions as an innocent country girl brings this worldly rogue to his knees.
As always, Victoria Vane captures my attention with her rich prose, historical details, and her unique writing style. If you've not had the pleasure of reading her books, I recommend them all!
***Arc kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Ms. Vane. It was a pleasure!***
May 24, 2016
3.75 Stars. I had to revise down my original stars and I will explain why. This is a tale of bad boy…very bad boy meets sweet innocent girl and begins to use his seduction powers for evil, as he has a plan to compromise Ms. Innocent so she will have to marry bad boy and thus bad boy controls rich innocent girls money and he therefore gains his title back. The End. Wel, not so fast. Hadley, whom as everybody knows I hated at the beginning, is at the lowest, debauched point of his life. This is where we enter the story and don’t know that he is ready for a change in his life. We know he has done bad thing, but we don’t yet have the entire back story, we just know at this point he is a dark character. Hadley is forced to become a spy, as the man that controls his fortune for the moment also controls his life. But 7 years have passed and he isn’t taking it anymore. He has learned through his vile and evil stepmother a way to get out from underneath all of it. All he has to do in seduce sweet innocent very rich Mary and he will have it made.
But for some reason he can’t take that final step when he looks into Mary’s pretty eyes, something keeps happening to his chest and he has trouble breathing. We follow as Hadley against all odds falls for Mary and in doing so can’t follow through with his nefarious plans. Barbara, Hadley’s evil stepmother has no problems following through with hers, and she has no qualms about calling out the dogs as the noose tightens around Mary. Pretty soon the decision is taken out of Mary and Hadley’s hands as they flee to keep Mary out of the hands of perversion personified.
Ms. Vane did a wonderful job of turning Hadley into a good guy for me, but why I had to revise my score was nobody really paid for their deeds, at least if they did, I didn’t know about it. I needed to read that Barbara and Lord Perverted and Mary’s guardian paid for their sins. I needed Barbara to realize truly what she had lost instead of her just leaving the room and laughing. As well as for me, the epilogue was too short. I needed a little more time with Hadley and Mary just being in love and no one trying to get them apart. Don’t get me wrong, this was a truly engaging read and I enjoyed it, just that the ending just didn’t quite work for me, as reflects in my rating.
But for some reason he can’t take that final step when he looks into Mary’s pretty eyes, something keeps happening to his chest and he has trouble breathing. We follow as Hadley against all odds falls for Mary and in doing so can’t follow through with his nefarious plans. Barbara, Hadley’s evil stepmother has no problems following through with hers, and she has no qualms about calling out the dogs as the noose tightens around Mary. Pretty soon the decision is taken out of Mary and Hadley’s hands as they flee to keep Mary out of the hands of perversion personified.
Ms. Vane did a wonderful job of turning Hadley into a good guy for me, but why I had to revise my score was nobody really paid for their deeds, at least if they did, I didn’t know about it. I needed to read that Barbara and Lord Perverted and Mary’s guardian paid for their sins. I needed Barbara to realize truly what she had lost instead of her just leaving the room and laughing. As well as for me, the epilogue was too short. I needed a little more time with Hadley and Mary just being in love and no one trying to get them apart. Don’t get me wrong, this was a truly engaging read and I enjoyed it, just that the ending just didn’t quite work for me, as reflects in my rating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2013
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
Story Rating-4 Stars
Character Rating-5 Stars
Romance Rating-4 Stars
Heat Level-3 Stars
Overall Rating-4 Stars
I REALLY enjoyed this book. Victoria has a wonderful way of writing, the flow, the words and descriptions are all VERY appealing to me.
This story line has been done before, but Victoria added her own twist to it and I was pulled into the story from beginning to end. This is a story set around a virgin heiress, which included a very sensual seduction, betrayal, secrets, jealousy, lies, greed and love. There were also some very dark situations as the story unfolded, keeping the story interesting all the way through.
The characters were well thought out. The heroine, Mary, was a very innocent and naïve character. She was also smart, kind and brave and I really liked her. The hero Hadley did NOT have good intentions towards Mary at first. He was not a good hero at the beginning of this story and had done MANY shady things throughout the past 7 years of his life. I loved how Mary's innocence during his seduction of her opened his eyes and made him a better person. Yes, he became the good hero, that I so want in my romances.
There were also 3 villains in this book that were very EVIL . The first one we meet is Sir Richard, and unfortunately he was Mary’s guardian and had control of her money. He wanted to marry her off to someone, where he would profit the most. The second villain was Barbara, Hadley's step-monster, I mean step-mother! That woman was pure evil, and did awful things over the course of the book. The third villain was Barnesley, what a wicked man. Sir Richard and Barbara had picked him to be Mary’s betrothed. He was a very dark character and added cruel element to the story!
So, I rated this book a 3 for heat level. Let me explain why. The fact that the heroine was a virgin had a lot to do with it. There were plenty of sensual interludes with Mary and Hadley, but the actual deed was not done until well into the story. We only got ONE real love scene and it was FANFRIGGINTASTIC!!! and well worth the wait!! Victoria sure can write a love scene that has me squirming in my seat, page after page and she doesn’t hold back!!
The ending was very exciting, with the hero saving the day *sigh*. Then I turned what I though was the last page and saw the word I most want to see at the end of my book…Epilogue! I was so HAPPY to see this and I was looking forward to reading about Mary and Hadley's future only to get one of the shortest and unsatisfactory epilogues that I have ever read. I don't understand why Victoria chose to end the book that way. A few more pages in the epilogue would have gone a LONG way. There was plenty she could have written about, and it might have added an extra 1/2 star to my overall rating. This is the only complaint I have for this book, everything else was very enjoyable. I hope that Victoria will take the time to elaborate a bit more when writing her epilogues in the future. I am a HUGE fan of Victoria Vane and I really hate mentioning any negative thoughts about her book, but it needed to be said. I think she is a VERY talented writer and I plan to read EVERYTHING she writes.
*A copy of this book was Kindly provided by Victoria Vane in exchange for an honest review *
Story Rating-4 Stars
Character Rating-5 Stars
Romance Rating-4 Stars
Heat Level-3 Stars
Overall Rating-4 Stars
I REALLY enjoyed this book. Victoria has a wonderful way of writing, the flow, the words and descriptions are all VERY appealing to me.
This story line has been done before, but Victoria added her own twist to it and I was pulled into the story from beginning to end. This is a story set around a virgin heiress, which included a very sensual seduction, betrayal, secrets, jealousy, lies, greed and love. There were also some very dark situations as the story unfolded, keeping the story interesting all the way through.
The characters were well thought out. The heroine, Mary, was a very innocent and naïve character. She was also smart, kind and brave and I really liked her. The hero Hadley did NOT have good intentions towards Mary at first. He was not a good hero at the beginning of this story and had done MANY shady things throughout the past 7 years of his life. I loved how Mary's innocence during his seduction of her opened his eyes and made him a better person. Yes, he became the good hero, that I so want in my romances.
There were also 3 villains in this book that were very EVIL . The first one we meet is Sir Richard, and unfortunately he was Mary’s guardian and had control of her money. He wanted to marry her off to someone, where he would profit the most. The second villain was Barbara, Hadley's step-monster, I mean step-mother! That woman was pure evil, and did awful things over the course of the book. The third villain was Barnesley, what a wicked man. Sir Richard and Barbara had picked him to be Mary’s betrothed. He was a very dark character and added cruel element to the story!
So, I rated this book a 3 for heat level. Let me explain why. The fact that the heroine was a virgin had a lot to do with it. There were plenty of sensual interludes with Mary and Hadley, but the actual deed was not done until well into the story. We only got ONE real love scene and it was FANFRIGGINTASTIC!!! and well worth the wait!! Victoria sure can write a love scene that has me squirming in my seat, page after page and she doesn’t hold back!!
The ending was very exciting, with the hero saving the day *sigh*. Then I turned what I though was the last page and saw the word I most want to see at the end of my book…Epilogue! I was so HAPPY to see this and I was looking forward to reading about Mary and Hadley's future only to get one of the shortest and unsatisfactory epilogues that I have ever read. I don't understand why Victoria chose to end the book that way. A few more pages in the epilogue would have gone a LONG way. There was plenty she could have written about, and it might have added an extra 1/2 star to my overall rating. This is the only complaint I have for this book, everything else was very enjoyable. I hope that Victoria will take the time to elaborate a bit more when writing her epilogues in the future. I am a HUGE fan of Victoria Vane and I really hate mentioning any negative thoughts about her book, but it needed to be said. I think she is a VERY talented writer and I plan to read EVERYTHING she writes.
*A copy of this book was Kindly provided by Victoria Vane in exchange for an honest review *
January 31, 2013
Mary is one of the richest women in England. Since neither of her parents are alive, her guardian is responsible for finding her a husband and has no qualms using her wealth as a way to buy his way into the good graces of men in high places. Mary's wants don't even factor in the equation. She is content living her simple country life but resigned to her fate of marriage to the highest bidder.
Lord Hadley Blanchard has been living a self imposed exile since the suicide and ruination of his father. Stripped of title, lands, and wealth, he has reveled in debauchery and vice for the last eight years, traveling throughout Europe. Now there is a chance to reclaim what was stolen by the very person that is now in control of Mary's life and fortune. The ultimate revenge for Hadley would be to have Mary as his wife, and in turn have her money and lands as well.
But Hadley has met his match in the shy, innocent country miss. Mary is a charming character. While she's not worldly like Hadley, she's not a doormat either. Despite the often used rake and virgin trope, Mary and Hadley's relationship didn't seem forced. From their first meeting, they seemed not only wildly attracted to each other, but comfortable enough with one another for their relationship to unfold naturally. Hadley is brought to his knees by a woman with no experience in the ways of the world and Mary is luckily matched with a man who is fascinated by her. Once again, Victoria Vane's love of the Georgian era shines through. She weaves a story filled with random historical facts, accurate social and material descriptions, and a romance that - while overused in Historical Romance, still has a magical fairy tale feeling.
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Lord Hadley Blanchard has been living a self imposed exile since the suicide and ruination of his father. Stripped of title, lands, and wealth, he has reveled in debauchery and vice for the last eight years, traveling throughout Europe. Now there is a chance to reclaim what was stolen by the very person that is now in control of Mary's life and fortune. The ultimate revenge for Hadley would be to have Mary as his wife, and in turn have her money and lands as well.
But Hadley has met his match in the shy, innocent country miss. Mary is a charming character. While she's not worldly like Hadley, she's not a doormat either. Despite the often used rake and virgin trope, Mary and Hadley's relationship didn't seem forced. From their first meeting, they seemed not only wildly attracted to each other, but comfortable enough with one another for their relationship to unfold naturally. Hadley is brought to his knees by a woman with no experience in the ways of the world and Mary is luckily matched with a man who is fascinated by her. Once again, Victoria Vane's love of the Georgian era shines through. She weaves a story filled with random historical facts, accurate social and material descriptions, and a romance that - while overused in Historical Romance, still has a magical fairy tale feeling.
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2013
Lord Hadley Blanchard should be an earl and have all the trappings and wealth that affords him but due to his fathers shocking death, he has been stripped of that right and it is his goal to get it back. He knows his father had nothing to do with the South Sea scandal that resulted in the loss of so much money and believes he was used a cover for the real villain behind the loss. Now, with years of spy work under his belt, he is finally ready to confront the man he knows is the real culprit and is met with a bargain...pay up for the title. Having no money, Hadley sets about to find some and the wealthy Miss Mary Elizabeth Edwardes happens into his life. Drawn to her before he knows her true identity, he sees it as the answer to his dilemma but finds resistance in his step mother, the woman who has taken Mary under her wing and has her own plans for Mary. As the feelings grow between Hadley and Mary, Hadley must decide if he tells her the whole truth about his past and future plans or if he just tells her bits and pieces and hopes Mary does not find out the rest. . .
Victoria Vane has such a way with words that she just immerses you in the Georgian time period and makes you feel like you are right there. The attention to detail, both large and small, is wonderful and exactly what I have come to expect from her writing. I will admit, I had a hard time warming up to the scoundrel Hadley, but in the end I did feel like his feelings for Mary were genuine and will last. His journey to redemption is slow and just a bit wicked but that fit with his character. Mary also grew as the story unfolded from a country girl to a strong, smart woman. The way she deals with Hadley was well done and I am glad that she did not just bend to his every wish. The side characters, from Hadley's step mother to Mary's guardian, add a nice layer of wickedness and evilness but their ending seemed a little easy for me. Overall, another strong writing effort from the talents of Victoria Vane filled with rich, lush detail, wickedness, action, love and trust. 4 stars
Review copy provided by publisher
Victoria Vane has such a way with words that she just immerses you in the Georgian time period and makes you feel like you are right there. The attention to detail, both large and small, is wonderful and exactly what I have come to expect from her writing. I will admit, I had a hard time warming up to the scoundrel Hadley, but in the end I did feel like his feelings for Mary were genuine and will last. His journey to redemption is slow and just a bit wicked but that fit with his character. Mary also grew as the story unfolded from a country girl to a strong, smart woman. The way she deals with Hadley was well done and I am glad that she did not just bend to his every wish. The side characters, from Hadley's step mother to Mary's guardian, add a nice layer of wickedness and evilness but their ending seemed a little easy for me. Overall, another strong writing effort from the talents of Victoria Vane filled with rich, lush detail, wickedness, action, love and trust. 4 stars
Review copy provided by publisher
March 21, 2016
This enjoyable, well-written, wickedly sexy Georgian romance has a sweetly innocent heroine and a charming, dissolute rogue at its centre and - to add some extra intrigue - a malevolent, conniving stepmother.
Miss Mary Elizabeth Edwards finds herself an unwitting pawn in a dangerous game. She is a country girl, and though gently raised and very rich, she is no sophisticate and therefore ripe for manipulation. Lord Hadley Blanchard, the son of a disgraced earl, has been living a hand-to-mouth existence on the continent since his father's suicide seven years previously. Whoring his way through life and also spying for the crown, he is decadent, charming and dependent on his step-mother, Barbara, Countess of Blanchard, for pin money in order to be able to continue his dissipated life style. She summons him back to England with a proposal that will make them both rich; he is to seduce and marry the unworldly Mary, the idea being that he and Barbara will carry on their torrid and incestuous affair while they live off Mary's money. Hadley has grown tired of his uncertain, Tom-cat lifestyle, and wishes to cut his ties with Barbara and see his father's name cleared, the Blanchard estates returned and his title re-instated.
Hadley's puppet master, Sir Richard, was also the instrument of his father's downfall and now a spymaster with his finger in many pies, he holds Hadley's life in the palm of his hand and constantly tweaks the reins. He is also Mary's guardian and in control of both her fortune and marriage prospects, with no intention whatsoever of allowing the disgraced earl's son access to his ward. As well as controlling both Mary and Hadley he is also lover to the devious and depraved Barbara, Countess of Blanchard.
In this way, Victoria Vane has cleverly intertwined the main characters into a clever and plausible plot in this rather witty and risqué romp.
To begin with, Hadley's charming exterior is artfully manufactured for the sole purpose of catching and ensnaring the innocent Mary, but soon he becomes enchanted with her innocence. His ennui and cynical attitude begin to drop away and the kind and generous young man who existed before his father's disgrace and his own exile starts to re-emerge. Mary, although no fool, is nonetheless dazzled by the handsome and debonair nobleman.
The story takes a dark twist and suddenly Mary's very life is in danger. Always having an eye to the main chance, her guardian has a list of influential men drawn up as possible candidates for her hand with no care for how sexually deviant or elderly they may be. All he cares about is that they will further his own political career, so Mary will go to the highest bidder.
With the developing - but secret - romance between Mary and Hadley kept under wraps, they tread a dangerous path while Hadley attempts to keep Mary safe. Certain revelations about Hadley's past throw her into a dilemma, and she has nowhere to turn; no one to trust. Hadley has been hoist by his own petard. Now that he has found and recognised his love, and realises he wants nothing from her other than herself... ..she does not believe him.
The narration by Stevie Zimmerman is really quite well done. She handles the large cast with confidence, portraying the devious and dastardly Barbara and the oily, corrupt Sir Richard particularly well. While Hadley is masquerading as a primped, powdered and pomaded Italian nobleman, she effects drawling, bored aristocratic tones, but as Hadley returns to his more honourable self, she effects a subtle change and adopts a pleasant, manly voice with just the right amount of inflection to render him more likeable. I didn't really connect with her portrayal of Mary, however, who at times comes over as whinny and a bit pathetic, although Ms. Vane has written her as a strong, sensible character. My main complaint though, is with the production quality. There is a tinny, slightly echoey background, as if Ms. Zimmerman was recording in a tunnel and I found it quite disconcerting. I listen to a lot of audiobooks and I rarely come across this problem.
On the whole, I enjoyed this audio version of Treacherous Temptations. it has a well thought out, plausible plot line and expertly captures the outrageously decadent and opulence of the Georgian era to a tee with sumptuous descriptions of the fashions, wigs, powders and patches of the times.
February 16, 2013
Author: Victoria Vane
Published By: Entangled Publishing
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Treacherous Temptations" by Victoria Vane was another one her wonderful historical erotic romances. I have read all of this author novels and again this was a home run....definitely this one was a hit out of the ball park. Ms. Vane is well known for her writing that only flows so smoothly with such description that willl appeal to all of her readers.
There were two main characters in this novel: Mary Elizabeth Edwardes and Lord Hadley Blanchard. Mary was a heiress(riches woman in England) with a large fortune that had to take a husband as Sir Richard, her ruthless guardian was forcing her leave her country home in Welham Grove and go to London, but why was this? Lord Hadley's father the Earl had died with a scandal that only changed his life and definitely his entitlements...only leaving him to 'live the life of a footloose rogue...being a spy secretly for the crown'....and just who had been responsible for all of this?
Ms. Vane will take the readers on a real roller coaster ride in how she brings all of this out ....with Hadley trying to return his family's name and even trying to win Mary's heart..what will come of all of this?
The characters were are very interesting and very well developed that they captured you with such interest keeping this story moving from Mary, Hadley, Sir Richard, Lady Barbara Blanchard, Jenny, James, Nanette, Lord Barnesley only presenting a well rounded read.
Be ready for a story that is filled with 'financial scandal, sex, secrets, danger, treachery, lies, debauchery, betrayal and even love with historical facts that only added such a believable well written read. Now, I will say to fully understand all of the what, where, when and how you must pick up "Treacherous Temptations" to see what all this author has in store for us ...the reader. In the end we all get to see just how this wonderful love story will end...and oh, what a ending!
I thought this was another one of Victoria Vane's well written "Treacherous Temptations" that I would recommend and just say to this author ...very well done.
Published By: Entangled Publishing
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Treacherous Temptations" by Victoria Vane was another one her wonderful historical erotic romances. I have read all of this author novels and again this was a home run....definitely this one was a hit out of the ball park. Ms. Vane is well known for her writing that only flows so smoothly with such description that willl appeal to all of her readers.
There were two main characters in this novel: Mary Elizabeth Edwardes and Lord Hadley Blanchard. Mary was a heiress(riches woman in England) with a large fortune that had to take a husband as Sir Richard, her ruthless guardian was forcing her leave her country home in Welham Grove and go to London, but why was this? Lord Hadley's father the Earl had died with a scandal that only changed his life and definitely his entitlements...only leaving him to 'live the life of a footloose rogue...being a spy secretly for the crown'....and just who had been responsible for all of this?
Ms. Vane will take the readers on a real roller coaster ride in how she brings all of this out ....with Hadley trying to return his family's name and even trying to win Mary's heart..what will come of all of this?
The characters were are very interesting and very well developed that they captured you with such interest keeping this story moving from Mary, Hadley, Sir Richard, Lady Barbara Blanchard, Jenny, James, Nanette, Lord Barnesley only presenting a well rounded read.
Be ready for a story that is filled with 'financial scandal, sex, secrets, danger, treachery, lies, debauchery, betrayal and even love with historical facts that only added such a believable well written read. Now, I will say to fully understand all of the what, where, when and how you must pick up "Treacherous Temptations" to see what all this author has in store for us ...the reader. In the end we all get to see just how this wonderful love story will end...and oh, what a ending!
I thought this was another one of Victoria Vane's well written "Treacherous Temptations" that I would recommend and just say to this author ...very well done.
March 28, 2016
Well-written story of a rake falling for innocent wisdom. The plot is clearly laid out, and there's a satisfying focus on H & H, bracketed by a suitably conniving Villain & Villainess. I liked the way Hadley is slowly captivated by Mary's straightforward reactions, in spite of his worse self.
“Nevertheless, you cannot convince me that the mere joining of two bodies is love.”
“No? Is not worship a display of adoration, Mary? Even the holy mother church would agree with that. And is not adoration one of the many facets of love? Sexual congress is the highest possible form of worship between a man and a woman, and is therefore indisputably an act of love.”
“I’ll allow that you display an impressive talent in the manipulation of words.”
“What else would you have me call it, Mary? Fornication is such an ugly term.”
“But a spade is a spade after all,” she retorted. “I would rather have honesty. If it is purely physical pleasure, call it thus. I would rather you spoke truth with candor than your perfidy with pretty lies.”
He laughed outright. “You would have honesty, sweet Mary? Most women prefer nothing better than wicked whispers and pretty lies. Playing along with a seduction is a widely accepted pretext for forfeiting virtue.”
Less engaging is the see-saw of Mary's progression to trusting Hadley - each step forward is countered by her discovery of yet another of his secrets, leading to her progressively predictable rejection of him. It's not that each scene is badly written, just that there are too many "betrayals". The emotional effect is dissipated as a result.
There's also a weakness in the resolution of the story: Mary is confronted by the unholy triumvirate of Villainous Guardian, Even More Villainous Spurned Mistress of the Hero, and Sadistic Wannabe Husband. Yet everything needs to be resolved into a HEA. I've written in other reviews of the difficulty of getting the balance right between the heroes and the villains, and making the villains credible without tipping the scales so far their way that the HEA feels contrived. I don't think Victoria Vane has succeeded in that here, but it's a relatively minor point in what is, overall, a decent HR.
“Nevertheless, you cannot convince me that the mere joining of two bodies is love.”
“No? Is not worship a display of adoration, Mary? Even the holy mother church would agree with that. And is not adoration one of the many facets of love? Sexual congress is the highest possible form of worship between a man and a woman, and is therefore indisputably an act of love.”
“I’ll allow that you display an impressive talent in the manipulation of words.”
“What else would you have me call it, Mary? Fornication is such an ugly term.”
“But a spade is a spade after all,” she retorted. “I would rather have honesty. If it is purely physical pleasure, call it thus. I would rather you spoke truth with candor than your perfidy with pretty lies.”
He laughed outright. “You would have honesty, sweet Mary? Most women prefer nothing better than wicked whispers and pretty lies. Playing along with a seduction is a widely accepted pretext for forfeiting virtue.”
Less engaging is the see-saw of Mary's progression to trusting Hadley - each step forward is countered by her discovery of yet another of his secrets, leading to her progressively predictable rejection of him. It's not that each scene is badly written, just that there are too many "betrayals". The emotional effect is dissipated as a result.
There's also a weakness in the resolution of the story: Mary is confronted by the unholy triumvirate of Villainous Guardian, Even More Villainous Spurned Mistress of the Hero, and Sadistic Wannabe Husband. Yet everything needs to be resolved into a HEA. I've written in other reviews of the difficulty of getting the balance right between the heroes and the villains, and making the villains credible without tipping the scales so far their way that the HEA feels contrived. I don't think Victoria Vane has succeeded in that here, but it's a relatively minor point in what is, overall, a decent HR.
June 11, 2013
Treacherous Temptations is Victoria Vane’s first full-length historical erotic romance. Having read and rhapsodised over her The Devil DeVere series, I couldn’t wait to read this 'Dangerous Liaisons' inspired book. Ms Vane never disappoints and this book was no exception. She weaves a sensual tale of scandal, treachery, intrigue, love and redemption.
Once again, I was swept back into the Georgian era with all its elegance, opulence and decadence which she captures so perfectly. Her writing is always evocative, emotive, sensual and delightfully wicked. I chose this excerpt because, for me, it perfectly illustrates her descriptive flair.
With the arrival of dusk, however, the true Venice awakened. Donning her gilded and be-jeweled bauta, she revealed her soul beneath a thousand torches lighting the canals with sputtering brilliance over shimmering waters. With countless covered gondolas affording floating places of refuge for sinful delights, she reveled in all of her concupiscent glory.
Ms Vane did an excellent job of showing Hadley’s gradual journey from a man whose life had degenerated into an endless pursuit of every excess and dissipation to someone who regains his honour, his ideals and his self-respect. I think I saw redemptive qualities in Hadley from the moment he interrupted Mary’s dancing lesson with the obnoxious French dancing teacher, Monsieur Gaspar, and sent him off with the proverbial flea in his ear. He was unaware of Mary’s true identity and simply championed a young lady being bullied.
When he discovers who Mary is, he initially sees her not only as the means to a large fortune but also a instrument of revenge against her guardian, Sir Richard, the man he holds responsible for stealing his inheritance. I loved watching his confusion when he finds himself developing feelings for her. Lust he can understand, but love is something that is completely beyond his comprehension.
She brought his hand to her mouth, kissing his palm, an artless act that had a startling affect.
Feeling unbalanced and terrorized, Hadley closed his eyes in an effort to shut her out, but the insidious and unwanted flare of feeling would not be ignored.
Hadley is the perfect hero (maybe not quite up there with DeVere, but then who is!). He’s charming, thoughtful, charismatic, seductive and protective.
Mary’s warm, engaging, headstrong and witty; a country girl at heart who prefers reading a book or long walks rather than the superficiality of London. I love her astute observation of society.
“I will never comprehend the fashionable people. They resemble nothing more than a muster of peacocks—preening, strutting, and gawking at one another. They smile and croon but few of them ever have a kind or sincere word.”
A complex mix of wisdom and innocence, she understands estate matters but is completely inexperienced when it comes to men. So it’s no wonder she can’t resist Hadley’s seductive ways.
The warmth of his hands seemed to permeate the many layers of silk and linen that separated them as if the barriers didn’t exist. His voice, his touch, his subtle masculine scent combined to fill her senses, making her almost giddy. It was lovely. It was also terrifying.
I loved the villainous secondary characters; the conniving, vindictive and depraved Barbara, Countess of Blanchard, Sir Richard, the fat, flatulent fool and Lord Barnesley, the libertine with his little idiosyncrasies. Their machinations certainly provided some interesting twists and turns.
Treacherous Temptations is definitely a worthy addition to my keeper shelf from one of my favourite authors.
RATING: ★★★★★
SENSUALITY RATING: SIZZLING
This ebook was kindly provided by the publisher Entangled in return for an honest review.
This review has also been posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
Once again, I was swept back into the Georgian era with all its elegance, opulence and decadence which she captures so perfectly. Her writing is always evocative, emotive, sensual and delightfully wicked. I chose this excerpt because, for me, it perfectly illustrates her descriptive flair.
With the arrival of dusk, however, the true Venice awakened. Donning her gilded and be-jeweled bauta, she revealed her soul beneath a thousand torches lighting the canals with sputtering brilliance over shimmering waters. With countless covered gondolas affording floating places of refuge for sinful delights, she reveled in all of her concupiscent glory.
Ms Vane did an excellent job of showing Hadley’s gradual journey from a man whose life had degenerated into an endless pursuit of every excess and dissipation to someone who regains his honour, his ideals and his self-respect. I think I saw redemptive qualities in Hadley from the moment he interrupted Mary’s dancing lesson with the obnoxious French dancing teacher, Monsieur Gaspar, and sent him off with the proverbial flea in his ear. He was unaware of Mary’s true identity and simply championed a young lady being bullied.
When he discovers who Mary is, he initially sees her not only as the means to a large fortune but also a instrument of revenge against her guardian, Sir Richard, the man he holds responsible for stealing his inheritance. I loved watching his confusion when he finds himself developing feelings for her. Lust he can understand, but love is something that is completely beyond his comprehension.
She brought his hand to her mouth, kissing his palm, an artless act that had a startling affect.
Feeling unbalanced and terrorized, Hadley closed his eyes in an effort to shut her out, but the insidious and unwanted flare of feeling would not be ignored.
Hadley is the perfect hero (maybe not quite up there with DeVere, but then who is!). He’s charming, thoughtful, charismatic, seductive and protective.
Mary’s warm, engaging, headstrong and witty; a country girl at heart who prefers reading a book or long walks rather than the superficiality of London. I love her astute observation of society.
“I will never comprehend the fashionable people. They resemble nothing more than a muster of peacocks—preening, strutting, and gawking at one another. They smile and croon but few of them ever have a kind or sincere word.”
A complex mix of wisdom and innocence, she understands estate matters but is completely inexperienced when it comes to men. So it’s no wonder she can’t resist Hadley’s seductive ways.
The warmth of his hands seemed to permeate the many layers of silk and linen that separated them as if the barriers didn’t exist. His voice, his touch, his subtle masculine scent combined to fill her senses, making her almost giddy. It was lovely. It was also terrifying.
I loved the villainous secondary characters; the conniving, vindictive and depraved Barbara, Countess of Blanchard, Sir Richard, the fat, flatulent fool and Lord Barnesley, the libertine with his little idiosyncrasies. Their machinations certainly provided some interesting twists and turns.
Treacherous Temptations is definitely a worthy addition to my keeper shelf from one of my favourite authors.
RATING: ★★★★★
SENSUALITY RATING: SIZZLING
This ebook was kindly provided by the publisher Entangled in return for an honest review.
This review has also been posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
March 23, 2013
This was my first Victoria Vane novel and though I didn't care for it as much as I would have liked I would still try another one of her books.
My whole problem with this book was the Hero and his vial ways. I know that it is all about him redeeming himself but sometimes the author can make a character to vial for the reader to want to believe in him.
Lord Hadley was seduced from a young age by his stepmother who was not much older than him. The thought of Hadley and Barbara together was just gross and the thought that even though he found it vial he still kept going back. Not only does he have this on his conscience but he has a lot of other things. I won't say what, but it's enough to just make him not real likable to me. I do understand the fact that he feels a bit trapped between his stepmother Barbara and the man who holds the power to give him back his title.
Mary has a fortune that she can not do anything with unless she get's married or turns thirty. She is content with not being married but her guardian wants her money and what it can get him, so he is going to make her marry. She wants to marry for love not because someone wishes to have her fortune. She is taken right away with Lord Hadley. Mary is a bit naive as she seems to try and see the best in everyone. She to me is not a real strong character though in the end she does show a little spunk.
This book should be a quick read but for me it didn't read fast because I couldn't get into the main characters very well. I just thought the H was horrible, though by the end I found him moderately likable, it just didn't sit well with me.
This is my opinion though so give it a try and see what you think. I have seen a few reviews who loved it.
My whole problem with this book was the Hero and his vial ways. I know that it is all about him redeeming himself but sometimes the author can make a character to vial for the reader to want to believe in him.
Lord Hadley was seduced from a young age by his stepmother who was not much older than him. The thought of Hadley and Barbara together was just gross and the thought that even though he found it vial he still kept going back. Not only does he have this on his conscience but he has a lot of other things. I won't say what, but it's enough to just make him not real likable to me. I do understand the fact that he feels a bit trapped between his stepmother Barbara and the man who holds the power to give him back his title.
Mary has a fortune that she can not do anything with unless she get's married or turns thirty. She is content with not being married but her guardian wants her money and what it can get him, so he is going to make her marry. She wants to marry for love not because someone wishes to have her fortune. She is taken right away with Lord Hadley. Mary is a bit naive as she seems to try and see the best in everyone. She to me is not a real strong character though in the end she does show a little spunk.
This book should be a quick read but for me it didn't read fast because I couldn't get into the main characters very well. I just thought the H was horrible, though by the end I found him moderately likable, it just didn't sit well with me.
This is my opinion though so give it a try and see what you think. I have seen a few reviews who loved it.
January 27, 2013
TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS by Victoria Vane is an exciting erotic Georgian historical romance. Another side to this author and another hit. Filled with treachery,danger,passion,betrayal,secrets,debauchery, lies,and love. Fast paced and a thrill ride you don't want to miss. Mary Elizabeth Edwardes,a heiress who has no desire to marry but her ruthless guardian has other ideas.Lord Hadley Blanchard,who has been spying for nearly a decade is looking for vengeance against his family. Follow Mary and Hadley as they navigate the waters of intrigue,and love. If you enjoy historical romance,the Georgian era,passion,intrigue,forbidden sex, the darker side of a financial scandal,and redemption you will enjoy "Treacherous Temptations". The characters are not only engaging,but will capture your heart and hold you there. The plot is well written with vivid details,Ms. Vane's love of Georgian era shines through, as well as her knowledge of the era. I loved this story,it will captivate you as well as have you holding your breath,with the twists and turns of this story. A must read! Received for an honest review from the publisher. For more details,please visit the author's website,Entangled Publishing,Scandalous,an Entangled imprint, and My Book Addiction and More.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING:Wild Ride
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING:Wild Ride
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews
September 18, 2014
Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics
To see review at Confessions
Let me just say that Victoria Vane has done it again and provided us with another rogue who can equal the Devil. I can’t remember when I first started reading Vane’s books but I have become a fan and was excited to read her latest book, Treacherous Temptation. This book follows another wild rake who honestly takes the cake of all the characters that Vane has ever written because of his actions as a young man and his antics to get back his title.
Lord Hadley Blanchard is known for seducing and you could say that he was responsible for his father’s death, which led to a series of events wherein he lost his estate and title. Forced into exile as the family name is now in ruins, he roams the Continent as a rake, but he is actually an agent for the Crown, a position he took to fund his fun at first. He has, though, grown up since taking the job and he’s not the young man he used to be. He realises that he needs to make something of his life instead of wasting it away and he has to because he has no plans to get married.
It’s been seven years since he has been in England but news comes that he can potentially gain back his estate and title so he hurries back, as he has been trying for years but with no success, because honestly the family was a scapegoat for the South Sea Scandal. He has to get Sir Richard, the man responsible for his ruin and now his employer, to help him, but Richard has more pressing issues dealing with his guardian.
Mary Edwards is the heiress to a vast fortune, and at nineteen she is a perfect marriage candidate for some impoverished gentleman, except she is not worldly like her guardian wants her to be. Therefore, she is taken to London and handed over to Lady Barbara, Hadley’s stepmother, to prepare her for the season. Now Barbara is little better off than Hadley as she is the lover of Sir Richard and was able to keep her house but she is lacking capital and she needs money. Therefore, Barbara forms her own plan to control Mary and her fortune by bringing Hadley into the picture. Needless to say that Richard plans to take advantage as well because she is rich and he wouldn’t be a politician for nothing. He leaves Hadley to try and regain his title and maintains his disguise as Italian nobility while pursuing Mary because Barbara wants her money and her plan is to marry her to Hadley. Should I say more? It’s shaping up to an eclectic cast of characters who all have plans for Mary including Mary herself.
This is the first novel from Vane, and I have enjoyed this new book loaded with characters that you will fall in love with are not drama free and will keep you entertained until the very end as the pages are filled with mysteries and trouble. Hadley and Mary, I love this couple; two people who are total opposites who fall in love despite the deceptions and villains in their way. Mary was the perfect foil for Hadley, she just wants to run the estates, she’s not interested in marriage so when she makes the move after finding out the truth I was surprised at first but then he reasons that the girl has a good head on her shoulders. Poor Lady Barbara! She was so determined to be the instigator for Mary meeting Hadley and setting them up.
Hadley, his past few years have been dictated by others because of his father actions and he’s not interested in marriage because of what happened. It seems Lady Barbara is going about it all wrong trying to get him interested. But never doubt a scheming woman as she will be thinking of something to make up for her disappointment in order to succeed. I thought Sir Richard was going to be the villain to watch out for as he already invested so much but I was surprised as I read on that it is Lady Barbara. It’s a nice turn of events with villain against villain to sort who will succeed at controlling the girl and Hadley too.
Vane knows how to write a book and once again made sure that all characters have meaty roles and solid places in the story. She knows how to develop a character and a story to the point that leaves a reader satisfied and not wanting more. 5 couples. You don’t want to miss this story. Vane knows how to write a historical that is naughty as well as a delight.
To see review at Confessions
Let me just say that Victoria Vane has done it again and provided us with another rogue who can equal the Devil. I can’t remember when I first started reading Vane’s books but I have become a fan and was excited to read her latest book, Treacherous Temptation. This book follows another wild rake who honestly takes the cake of all the characters that Vane has ever written because of his actions as a young man and his antics to get back his title.
Lord Hadley Blanchard is known for seducing and you could say that he was responsible for his father’s death, which led to a series of events wherein he lost his estate and title. Forced into exile as the family name is now in ruins, he roams the Continent as a rake, but he is actually an agent for the Crown, a position he took to fund his fun at first. He has, though, grown up since taking the job and he’s not the young man he used to be. He realises that he needs to make something of his life instead of wasting it away and he has to because he has no plans to get married.
It’s been seven years since he has been in England but news comes that he can potentially gain back his estate and title so he hurries back, as he has been trying for years but with no success, because honestly the family was a scapegoat for the South Sea Scandal. He has to get Sir Richard, the man responsible for his ruin and now his employer, to help him, but Richard has more pressing issues dealing with his guardian.
Mary Edwards is the heiress to a vast fortune, and at nineteen she is a perfect marriage candidate for some impoverished gentleman, except she is not worldly like her guardian wants her to be. Therefore, she is taken to London and handed over to Lady Barbara, Hadley’s stepmother, to prepare her for the season. Now Barbara is little better off than Hadley as she is the lover of Sir Richard and was able to keep her house but she is lacking capital and she needs money. Therefore, Barbara forms her own plan to control Mary and her fortune by bringing Hadley into the picture. Needless to say that Richard plans to take advantage as well because she is rich and he wouldn’t be a politician for nothing. He leaves Hadley to try and regain his title and maintains his disguise as Italian nobility while pursuing Mary because Barbara wants her money and her plan is to marry her to Hadley. Should I say more? It’s shaping up to an eclectic cast of characters who all have plans for Mary including Mary herself.
This is the first novel from Vane, and I have enjoyed this new book loaded with characters that you will fall in love with are not drama free and will keep you entertained until the very end as the pages are filled with mysteries and trouble. Hadley and Mary, I love this couple; two people who are total opposites who fall in love despite the deceptions and villains in their way. Mary was the perfect foil for Hadley, she just wants to run the estates, she’s not interested in marriage so when she makes the move after finding out the truth I was surprised at first but then he reasons that the girl has a good head on her shoulders. Poor Lady Barbara! She was so determined to be the instigator for Mary meeting Hadley and setting them up.
Hadley, his past few years have been dictated by others because of his father actions and he’s not interested in marriage because of what happened. It seems Lady Barbara is going about it all wrong trying to get him interested. But never doubt a scheming woman as she will be thinking of something to make up for her disappointment in order to succeed. I thought Sir Richard was going to be the villain to watch out for as he already invested so much but I was surprised as I read on that it is Lady Barbara. It’s a nice turn of events with villain against villain to sort who will succeed at controlling the girl and Hadley too.
Vane knows how to write a book and once again made sure that all characters have meaty roles and solid places in the story. She knows how to develop a character and a story to the point that leaves a reader satisfied and not wanting more. 5 couples. You don’t want to miss this story. Vane knows how to write a historical that is naughty as well as a delight.
February 23, 2013
This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...
I had high hopes for Treacherous Temptations. Unfortunately, this book didn't quite meet them.
Before I discuss what I didn't like about the book, let me first enumerate what I did like.
I really liked Mary's character. She was a very sensible character. Despite all the craziness going on around her, she stayed calm and steady. She was strong, clever, and an all-around likable heroine.
I liked the plot of the book. It was interesting and kept my attention. There were a lot of secrets that kept me on my toes as I was reading. And the ending was sweet.
However, there was one glaring problem: the love-interest.
I did not like Hadley at all. On a scale of 1 to debauched rake, Hadley broke the scale. At the beginning of the book, we see him when he hits rock bottom. And I don't mean sleeping with a different woman every night. I mean shocking, scandalous, make a porn star blush kind of rock bottom. In the first scene of the book, we see the night that Hadley's father finds his young wife in bed with another man and, when he sees the man's face, kills himself. It doesn't take much guesswork to figure out who that man was and, sure enough, when Hadley is first introduced, our first impression is of him effing his step-mother.
Is it just me or does not seem not okay to everyone else?
Throughout the book, I didn't feel like Hadley even felt guilty for his part in his father's death. At the end, he says that he feels guilty, but it seemed to me that, throughout most of the book, he was all good and totally unburdened by guilt. I just wasn't a fan of his character. I didn't like how he acted. I can deal with a rogue, in fact I like rakish heroes, but Hadley was just off the charts and I didn't really appreciate that.
The one thing that I can say about his character is that I liked that, as soon as he realized that he wanted to marry Mary (that sounds a little odd)-which was right after he met her-he did try to clean up his act. Not to very much avail, but there is something to be said about effort.
BTW, one of the reasons that I really liked Mary was that, once she found out about Hadley's part in his father's death, she didn't just say "oh, that's totally fine, now come here handsome." She was actually intelligent about it and asked for some space and time to think it all over. Once again, a refreshingly sensible character.
So, I could have easily loved this book. If Hadley hadn't been a ridiculous man-whore. Everything else about this book was lovely. But, I can't exactly like a book if I spend so much time disliking the hero. So, Treacherous Temptations didn't do it for me, unfortunately.
*Thanks to Netgalley and Entangled for a copy
I had high hopes for Treacherous Temptations. Unfortunately, this book didn't quite meet them.
Before I discuss what I didn't like about the book, let me first enumerate what I did like.
I really liked Mary's character. She was a very sensible character. Despite all the craziness going on around her, she stayed calm and steady. She was strong, clever, and an all-around likable heroine.
I liked the plot of the book. It was interesting and kept my attention. There were a lot of secrets that kept me on my toes as I was reading. And the ending was sweet.
However, there was one glaring problem: the love-interest.
I did not like Hadley at all. On a scale of 1 to debauched rake, Hadley broke the scale. At the beginning of the book, we see him when he hits rock bottom. And I don't mean sleeping with a different woman every night. I mean shocking, scandalous, make a porn star blush kind of rock bottom. In the first scene of the book, we see the night that Hadley's father finds his young wife in bed with another man and, when he sees the man's face, kills himself. It doesn't take much guesswork to figure out who that man was and, sure enough, when Hadley is first introduced, our first impression is of him effing his step-mother.
Is it just me or does not seem not okay to everyone else?
Throughout the book, I didn't feel like Hadley even felt guilty for his part in his father's death. At the end, he says that he feels guilty, but it seemed to me that, throughout most of the book, he was all good and totally unburdened by guilt. I just wasn't a fan of his character. I didn't like how he acted. I can deal with a rogue, in fact I like rakish heroes, but Hadley was just off the charts and I didn't really appreciate that.
The one thing that I can say about his character is that I liked that, as soon as he realized that he wanted to marry Mary (that sounds a little odd)-which was right after he met her-he did try to clean up his act. Not to very much avail, but there is something to be said about effort.
BTW, one of the reasons that I really liked Mary was that, once she found out about Hadley's part in his father's death, she didn't just say "oh, that's totally fine, now come here handsome." She was actually intelligent about it and asked for some space and time to think it all over. Once again, a refreshingly sensible character.
So, I could have easily loved this book. If Hadley hadn't been a ridiculous man-whore. Everything else about this book was lovely. But, I can't exactly like a book if I spend so much time disliking the hero. So, Treacherous Temptations didn't do it for me, unfortunately.
*Thanks to Netgalley and Entangled for a copy
February 4, 2013
A very big thank you to Victoria Vane and Entangled Publishing for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*SQUEALSSSSS!! Another Victoria Vane book......WEEE!!*
My Review:
As all of you know well by now, I am a big fan of Victoria Vane and her impressive Devil DeVere series. So, when I heard that Treacherous Temptations will be her first full-length novel, I was equally excited about it.
The atmosphere of Treacherous Temptations was more grim, darker and sober compared to her DD series. Although it wasn't as hilarious and witty, it still was very captivating. The story is richly painted with historical facts, engaging characters and a crisp plotline.
I am amazed at the elaborations and details that went into building the Treacherous Temptations world. I can't imagine the hard work of research that went into giving birth to this story. I salute you Miss Vane!
My only quibble was that the epilogue wasn't long enough. I'm truly looking forward to her next novel. Bring it on!
*SQUEALSSSSS!! Another Victoria Vane book......WEEE!!*
My Review:
As all of you know well by now, I am a big fan of Victoria Vane and her impressive Devil DeVere series. So, when I heard that Treacherous Temptations will be her first full-length novel, I was equally excited about it.
The atmosphere of Treacherous Temptations was more grim, darker and sober compared to her DD series. Although it wasn't as hilarious and witty, it still was very captivating. The story is richly painted with historical facts, engaging characters and a crisp plotline.
I am amazed at the elaborations and details that went into building the Treacherous Temptations world. I can't imagine the hard work of research that went into giving birth to this story. I salute you Miss Vane!
My only quibble was that the epilogue wasn't long enough. I'm truly looking forward to her next novel. Bring it on!
December 20, 2015
I'm truly debating my rating on this one. The author shapes Hadley's (H) character in the same mold of Valmont (more Firth than Malkovich IMHO) with the requisite evil OW (Barbara - stepmother) who preys on Hadley and so begins his downward spiral into a life of debauchery, guilt and self-hatred. Enter Mary (h) - the awkward, unfashionable and innocent heiress who is the target of Barbara's, and thus Hadley's, machinations.
I liked the story overall (I'm a fan of all things Les Liaisons Dangereuses by Christopher Hampton). What didn't work for me was the short timeline for the change of character and redemption of Hadley. I do believe in Hadley's change at the end, however, it would have been nice to see it evolve more slowly with more depth and insight. Some pretty good evil and corrupt characters. It would have been nice to know what happened to them at the end as well. 3.5 stars.
I liked the story overall (I'm a fan of all things Les Liaisons Dangereuses by Christopher Hampton). What didn't work for me was the short timeline for the change of character and redemption of Hadley. I do believe in Hadley's change at the end, however, it would have been nice to see it evolve more slowly with more depth and insight. Some pretty good evil and corrupt characters. It would have been nice to know what happened to them at the end as well. 3.5 stars.
February 15, 2013
Vane does it again with a great eye for weaving fiction with history with a light hand. While I prefer the characters of her other novels (Lyddie & Vesta--headstrong women), I enjoyed this story more because the plot and storyline were allowed to simmer rather than boil quickly.
Thanks for the great recommendations of Vane's novels, Jill!
Thanks for the great recommendations of Vane's novels, Jill!
February 11, 2013
Originally published at Reading Reality
Treason, rebellion, espionage, government-backed Ponzi schemes. Dead scapegoats. Live corrupt officials. Incest.
Some of it even happened.
Victoria Vane is an expert at weaving the soiled threads of actual Georgian-era events into a tapestry that proves yet again that foul deeds can wear a fair face. Behind the glittering masks of the aristocracy lurked the corruption that the later Victorian era's compulsive prudishness was a reaction against.
The Georgian era was a revel.
Two of the events that lay behind the story of Treacherous Temptations were real, historic events. After the Hanoverian kings, in the person of George I, took the throne of Britain, there were a series of rebellions in favor of James Stuart, and later his son Charles. History calls his son "Bonnie Prince Charlie". The rebellions are known as the "Jacobite Rebellions" and they cost Scotland dearly. The breaking of the clan system in the Highlands was one of the results. (If you want to read more about the Jacobite Risings, invest some time in Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series. The first three books cover it in glorious detail.)
The Scots did not want "German Georgie" on the throne. They paid in blood. Spying on them paid in cash.
The government-backed Ponzi scheme was also historic fact. Bernie Madoff was small time compared to the South Sea Bubble, because the South Sea Bubble started off as a government investment. It was supposed to reduce the cost of the national debt by investing in trade with South America. There was just one problem--at that point in history, all South American Trade was controlled by Spain, and Britain was at war with Spain. There was also a pesky problem with insider trading. (Some things never change)
As our story begins, Hadley Blanchard is summoned home after nearly ten years spying on the Jacobite court in exile. This was a dangerous game for him. If he was caught by the Jacobites, they would have killed him. If he was caught in England delivering messages to either his paymaster or to any of the exiled court's contacts, he had his choice of being executed for treason or killed on sight.
His paymaster would not have protected him, and he knew it. He was living by his wits, and time was probably running out.
About that summons home, it comes from his stepmother. Funny thing about that, she's also his lover. Or she was. That both is and isn't as bad as it sounds. They are about the same age. But, it was the sight of the two of them together that caused his father to kill himself instead of her.
The old man definitely shot the wrong person.
And his father's death was terribly, terribly convenient for the other officers of the South Sea Company. Dead men make very handy scapegoats. Hadley was all of nineteen at the time. He lost his home, his estate, his title, and his income. The government gave him a small stipend and sent him on his way. Disgraced by proxy.
He wants it back. He wants his home back. He wants his self-respect back. He knows that his father was not the engineer behind the South Sea Company collapse. Hadley knows that the man currently paying him to spy on the Jacobites is responsible. He just can't prove it.
Until fate throws Mary Edwardes in his lap. Literally. The woman whose father purchased his former estates. quite legally. The woman whose is now the ward of his enemy, along with her fortune.
All he has to do is seduce her and marry her. He doesn't even have to like her. It would be so much easier for him if he didn't like her. If he didn't care.
But Mary Edwardes seems to actually like him, not just want him. He's practiced at making women want him. Having someone like him, that's different. It's more than novel. It makes him feel like there might be a future, and not just revenge.
Except that he's not remotely worthy of a woman like Mary. And he still has to make her see that he's better than any of the alternatives that her guardian will sell her to, even after she finds out the awful truth about him.
Escape Rating B+: Treacherous Temptations has a number of elements of the "perils of Pauline" type of story. Mary Edwardes does seem beyond innocent, even naive. She is nineteen, not sixteen. It's not that she doesn't know about sex, it's that she doesn't know about people. Sir Richard, her guardian, is selling her to the highest bidder. Lady Barbara is not her friend. Human nature is the same all over. Even in her village there would have been people who were rotten, and nineteen is well out of the schoolroom.
But it's Hadley's journey that fascinates. He grows from being a besotted boy in the prologue to a man who has had enough and needs to find a way out. His redemption is the story that we're following. He needs to throw off his last tie to Barbara, his dependence on Sir Richard's money, and finally stand up for himself by saving Mary. Hadley pulling himself out of the gutter is the story.
And it's a damned good one.
Treason, rebellion, espionage, government-backed Ponzi schemes. Dead scapegoats. Live corrupt officials. Incest.
Some of it even happened.
Victoria Vane is an expert at weaving the soiled threads of actual Georgian-era events into a tapestry that proves yet again that foul deeds can wear a fair face. Behind the glittering masks of the aristocracy lurked the corruption that the later Victorian era's compulsive prudishness was a reaction against.
The Georgian era was a revel.
Two of the events that lay behind the story of Treacherous Temptations were real, historic events. After the Hanoverian kings, in the person of George I, took the throne of Britain, there were a series of rebellions in favor of James Stuart, and later his son Charles. History calls his son "Bonnie Prince Charlie". The rebellions are known as the "Jacobite Rebellions" and they cost Scotland dearly. The breaking of the clan system in the Highlands was one of the results. (If you want to read more about the Jacobite Risings, invest some time in Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series. The first three books cover it in glorious detail.)
The Scots did not want "German Georgie" on the throne. They paid in blood. Spying on them paid in cash.
The government-backed Ponzi scheme was also historic fact. Bernie Madoff was small time compared to the South Sea Bubble, because the South Sea Bubble started off as a government investment. It was supposed to reduce the cost of the national debt by investing in trade with South America. There was just one problem--at that point in history, all South American Trade was controlled by Spain, and Britain was at war with Spain. There was also a pesky problem with insider trading. (Some things never change)
As our story begins, Hadley Blanchard is summoned home after nearly ten years spying on the Jacobite court in exile. This was a dangerous game for him. If he was caught by the Jacobites, they would have killed him. If he was caught in England delivering messages to either his paymaster or to any of the exiled court's contacts, he had his choice of being executed for treason or killed on sight.
His paymaster would not have protected him, and he knew it. He was living by his wits, and time was probably running out.
About that summons home, it comes from his stepmother. Funny thing about that, she's also his lover. Or she was. That both is and isn't as bad as it sounds. They are about the same age. But, it was the sight of the two of them together that caused his father to kill himself instead of her.
The old man definitely shot the wrong person.
And his father's death was terribly, terribly convenient for the other officers of the South Sea Company. Dead men make very handy scapegoats. Hadley was all of nineteen at the time. He lost his home, his estate, his title, and his income. The government gave him a small stipend and sent him on his way. Disgraced by proxy.
He wants it back. He wants his home back. He wants his self-respect back. He knows that his father was not the engineer behind the South Sea Company collapse. Hadley knows that the man currently paying him to spy on the Jacobites is responsible. He just can't prove it.
Until fate throws Mary Edwardes in his lap. Literally. The woman whose father purchased his former estates. quite legally. The woman whose is now the ward of his enemy, along with her fortune.
All he has to do is seduce her and marry her. He doesn't even have to like her. It would be so much easier for him if he didn't like her. If he didn't care.
But Mary Edwardes seems to actually like him, not just want him. He's practiced at making women want him. Having someone like him, that's different. It's more than novel. It makes him feel like there might be a future, and not just revenge.
Except that he's not remotely worthy of a woman like Mary. And he still has to make her see that he's better than any of the alternatives that her guardian will sell her to, even after she finds out the awful truth about him.
Escape Rating B+: Treacherous Temptations has a number of elements of the "perils of Pauline" type of story. Mary Edwardes does seem beyond innocent, even naive. She is nineteen, not sixteen. It's not that she doesn't know about sex, it's that she doesn't know about people. Sir Richard, her guardian, is selling her to the highest bidder. Lady Barbara is not her friend. Human nature is the same all over. Even in her village there would have been people who were rotten, and nineteen is well out of the schoolroom.
But it's Hadley's journey that fascinates. He grows from being a besotted boy in the prologue to a man who has had enough and needs to find a way out. His redemption is the story that we're following. He needs to throw off his last tie to Barbara, his dependence on Sir Richard's money, and finally stand up for himself by saving Mary. Hadley pulling himself out of the gutter is the story.
And it's a damned good one.
February 1, 2013
As I settled into this book properly and got the feel of the writing and the plot, I was delighted to discover that I had landed into a story that rivaled some of the truly dark Gothic classical tales of old where evil plotted against the virgin heroine, where schemes for power and wealth were de rigeur, where the hero was a man in need of redemption and where a madcap and slightly over the top plot is acceptable. The only variance was the setting. Instead of a dark moldering castle, our heroine's tale is set against the backdrop of the glittering wealth of Georgian London during the beginning of George II's reign (okay well there was that scene near the end, but we'll keep that on the hush-hush so as not to spoil it).
The story opens with a Prologue which begins with a dark tragedy and then continues on telling of the life a dissipated young nobleman, Lord Hadley Blanchard. His life is empty and he has plunged the depths of sin and reached rock bottom. His fall is complete when he makes a devil's bargain to stay in funds.
Next, the heart of the story begins when a young innocent Mary Edwardes is forced by Sir Richard, the guardian her father appointed, to leave her country estate and go to London for the purpose of being married off as an heiress. She is alone and frightened so must do as she is told. Helping her in shedding her countrified ways is Sir Richard's mistress, the unscrupulous widowed Countess Barbara Blanchard.
The Countess constantly schemes for money and for fulfillment to her lusty desires and then in the end she acts out of vicious jealousy. She is tired of Sir Richard so concocts a scheme to bring the prodigal step-son, Hadley Blanchard, home to help her steal the wealth of the young girl in her care by debauching her and marrying her. What she could not have foreseen was the effect such a pure innocent girl would have on a man who thought he was beyond redemption and thought he lost his conscience long ago.
Hadley agrees to Barbara's plans, but has his own schemes afoot to restore his family title and lands, revenge himself against Sir Richard and yes, to gain a wealthy heiress as his wife. Between Hadley, the Countess, and Sir Richard, Mary is not completely unaware of the danger surrounding her, but knows she needs an ally. Hadley, plotter that he is, seems like her best bet, but she fears he will break her heart in the process because she is drawn to him almost from the first because he is the only one to treat her with kindness.
This book has a very twisty plot with that feel that made me see poor Marry as the tethered goat sacrifice to the wild beasts. Knowing who the villains were and being privy to their plotting didn't make the story any less exciting because there was the tension of wondering how Mary and Hadley would navigate through the snares and dangers or get caught. That Countess could have given Machiavelli a good run for his money. It's scary when evil is that determined and capable.
As to back drop, I have to say that I was impressed with the authentic feel of the historic backdrop that wove unobtrusively throughout the story. I think it a strong suit for this writer as I've noticed this is true in her other writings as well.
I enjoyed how Mary's character was parts innocent and parts sass, but never naive. She was honest to the core even with her feelings of attraction and her desires when it came to Hadley. I wanted to shout 'Bravo Mary' when she looked Hadley in the eye and stated with honesty that she would take responsibility for her own actions- that Hadley wasn't seducing her so much as she was allowing his advances because she wanted them. I also wanted to swoon when Hadley called her his angel and that she had saved him. Hadley excited sympathy even more so than Mary once his past was opened up to me. Then I wanted to cry when Mary heard his tale, didn't believe in him and he was faced with the fact that his past had destroyed his future chance of happiness.
The other plot line which I will entitle 'Mary's Education By Hadley' ran through most of the book. Hadley's tantalizing lessons in passion escalated with each new meeting between the two. These scenes were refreshingly written even as they went from warm increasing in heat to scorching hot by the time all was said and done.
After the big scene near the end, I felt like the story did rush into its conclusion. I was happy with what came about in the end for some and wished that there had been explicit mention of some dispensary of justice for others.
The book offered an exceptionally good reading experience that engaged me from the start, touched many emotions in me and kept my interested to the very last page was turned.
Those who like their historical romances loaded with hot spicy passion and devilish intrigue would probably enjoy this story.
Thank you to the author who provided a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
The story opens with a Prologue which begins with a dark tragedy and then continues on telling of the life a dissipated young nobleman, Lord Hadley Blanchard. His life is empty and he has plunged the depths of sin and reached rock bottom. His fall is complete when he makes a devil's bargain to stay in funds.
Next, the heart of the story begins when a young innocent Mary Edwardes is forced by Sir Richard, the guardian her father appointed, to leave her country estate and go to London for the purpose of being married off as an heiress. She is alone and frightened so must do as she is told. Helping her in shedding her countrified ways is Sir Richard's mistress, the unscrupulous widowed Countess Barbara Blanchard.
The Countess constantly schemes for money and for fulfillment to her lusty desires and then in the end she acts out of vicious jealousy. She is tired of Sir Richard so concocts a scheme to bring the prodigal step-son, Hadley Blanchard, home to help her steal the wealth of the young girl in her care by debauching her and marrying her. What she could not have foreseen was the effect such a pure innocent girl would have on a man who thought he was beyond redemption and thought he lost his conscience long ago.
Hadley agrees to Barbara's plans, but has his own schemes afoot to restore his family title and lands, revenge himself against Sir Richard and yes, to gain a wealthy heiress as his wife. Between Hadley, the Countess, and Sir Richard, Mary is not completely unaware of the danger surrounding her, but knows she needs an ally. Hadley, plotter that he is, seems like her best bet, but she fears he will break her heart in the process because she is drawn to him almost from the first because he is the only one to treat her with kindness.
This book has a very twisty plot with that feel that made me see poor Marry as the tethered goat sacrifice to the wild beasts. Knowing who the villains were and being privy to their plotting didn't make the story any less exciting because there was the tension of wondering how Mary and Hadley would navigate through the snares and dangers or get caught. That Countess could have given Machiavelli a good run for his money. It's scary when evil is that determined and capable.
As to back drop, I have to say that I was impressed with the authentic feel of the historic backdrop that wove unobtrusively throughout the story. I think it a strong suit for this writer as I've noticed this is true in her other writings as well.
I enjoyed how Mary's character was parts innocent and parts sass, but never naive. She was honest to the core even with her feelings of attraction and her desires when it came to Hadley. I wanted to shout 'Bravo Mary' when she looked Hadley in the eye and stated with honesty that she would take responsibility for her own actions- that Hadley wasn't seducing her so much as she was allowing his advances because she wanted them. I also wanted to swoon when Hadley called her his angel and that she had saved him. Hadley excited sympathy even more so than Mary once his past was opened up to me. Then I wanted to cry when Mary heard his tale, didn't believe in him and he was faced with the fact that his past had destroyed his future chance of happiness.
The other plot line which I will entitle 'Mary's Education By Hadley' ran through most of the book. Hadley's tantalizing lessons in passion escalated with each new meeting between the two. These scenes were refreshingly written even as they went from warm increasing in heat to scorching hot by the time all was said and done.
After the big scene near the end, I felt like the story did rush into its conclusion. I was happy with what came about in the end for some and wished that there had been explicit mention of some dispensary of justice for others.
The book offered an exceptionally good reading experience that engaged me from the start, touched many emotions in me and kept my interested to the very last page was turned.
Those who like their historical romances loaded with hot spicy passion and devilish intrigue would probably enjoy this story.
Thank you to the author who provided a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2014
I’m in a Georgian state of mind and it is a thank you to Georgian romance author Victoria Vane. She is setting the bar and tempting readers at every turn in her latest Entangled Publishing sizzling erotic release TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS
Raise your glass readers to a phenomenal new name in the world of Georgian historical romance,. Ms. Victoria Vane has jumped into readers hearts with her very own splend-tastic spin of the classic 1987 movie DANGEROUS LIAISON. Button down the hatches, because Vane delivers one horrifically evil, villainous viper in the shape of Lady Barbra Blanchard who doesn’t have a good bone in her voluptuous body and will destroy any one who gets in her way.
But, wait, I’m getting a head of myself. TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS is an all out romp of erotic intrigues, the debauchery of innocence and a love that will triumph over evil in the end.
Don’t you just love a reluctant heiress plopped from the countryside of England and brought into the viperous world of the Georgian ton? Then welcome to Miss Mary Elizabeth Edwardes world. Fate has deemed it time for one of England’s heiress with one of the larges fortunes in the kingdom to find a husband—which she desperately does not one. Give her the country, the fresh air and the familiar people around her and she will be quite happy to live out her quite little existence. Plots are afoot and her guardian has political plans of his own that involve for Mary marrying. Enlisting the help of his mistress, Lady Barbara Blanchard—who has diabolical designs on the girl herself—to help shape the country bumpkin into the reigning bell of the ball, but at what price will Mary transition from duckling to swan cost he in the end?
Called back from his escaped abroad, Lord Hadley Blanchard has lived the life of debauchery and has had is hands in every vice known to man and then some. Hadley cannot help but be intrigued by the proposition of seducing the very young and naive country-miss before him. A master of seduction, taking Mary Elizabeth Edwardes innocence and enacting his revenge should be child’s play. That is until; Hadely begins to feel a spark that had long been extinguished at his father’s untimely passing. Hadley doesn’t believe in redemption. Heck, he himself, sees himself as irredeemable and to far gone into the depths of depravity to every find his way out. He knows that to despoil Mary is like taking away the only good and pure part in his life. As Hadley comes to terms with his feeling about Mary he is also venturing to thwart the man who took away his title and lands and to double cross the woman who brought him into the world of deprivation and stole his innocence all those years ago.
Keeping Mary out of their clutches and near to his heart Hadley will ply and try all the skills of seduction he knows to win the one woman who makes him complete.
After reading a Victoria Vane novel I am always in awe of how she transforms this almost mythical Georgian world by the creatively imaginative dialogue. One of my favorite things about a Victoria Vane book is that her dialogue is so genuine, witty and unique to the time. She capitulates her readers into an opulent world that leaves a readers imagination running wild.
Her characters are in a word—sublime. They are intricately crafted and left this reader genuinely awestruck at how real hey felt. Mary and Hadley are the perfect combination of good and evil. Raised by her loving father Mary is very innocent in the way of the ‘ton’, but she isn’t clueless. She is strong and highly intelligent with a heart of gold. In the Georgian age giving a person the benefit of the doubt would cost you your life; and it almost cost Mary hers. Hadley is all the way at the other spectrum and for the last seven or so years has wallowed in his self-pity over his father death and his innocent roll he played in it. Hadley dived into the vice, drink and whoring and reveled in it. Until he sees Mary. His first instinct is t enacts his revenge, but as the lot thickens and Hadley grows he knows there is more than petty revenge. One of the worst, but have to say I enjoyed her was the viperous vixen and Hadley’s wicked—very wicked and evil step-mother. From the moment she appears on the scene I despised her. Good job, Victoria. This character by far is the most despised and terrifically written villain I have read in a very long time. Victoria Vane makes it so a reader can do nothing but cheer ad root for Barbara’s demise all the while having a love-hate relationship with her.
I simply could not help but fall in-love with the world and characters of TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS. This story is seduction on a stick. Victoria Vane is wonderful at leaving her fans wanting more. And for the first time readers will be clamoring to read more of Victoria Vane’s work.
Raise your glass readers to a phenomenal new name in the world of Georgian historical romance,. Ms. Victoria Vane has jumped into readers hearts with her very own splend-tastic spin of the classic 1987 movie DANGEROUS LIAISON. Button down the hatches, because Vane delivers one horrifically evil, villainous viper in the shape of Lady Barbra Blanchard who doesn’t have a good bone in her voluptuous body and will destroy any one who gets in her way.
But, wait, I’m getting a head of myself. TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS is an all out romp of erotic intrigues, the debauchery of innocence and a love that will triumph over evil in the end.
Don’t you just love a reluctant heiress plopped from the countryside of England and brought into the viperous world of the Georgian ton? Then welcome to Miss Mary Elizabeth Edwardes world. Fate has deemed it time for one of England’s heiress with one of the larges fortunes in the kingdom to find a husband—which she desperately does not one. Give her the country, the fresh air and the familiar people around her and she will be quite happy to live out her quite little existence. Plots are afoot and her guardian has political plans of his own that involve for Mary marrying. Enlisting the help of his mistress, Lady Barbara Blanchard—who has diabolical designs on the girl herself—to help shape the country bumpkin into the reigning bell of the ball, but at what price will Mary transition from duckling to swan cost he in the end?
Called back from his escaped abroad, Lord Hadley Blanchard has lived the life of debauchery and has had is hands in every vice known to man and then some. Hadley cannot help but be intrigued by the proposition of seducing the very young and naive country-miss before him. A master of seduction, taking Mary Elizabeth Edwardes innocence and enacting his revenge should be child’s play. That is until; Hadely begins to feel a spark that had long been extinguished at his father’s untimely passing. Hadley doesn’t believe in redemption. Heck, he himself, sees himself as irredeemable and to far gone into the depths of depravity to every find his way out. He knows that to despoil Mary is like taking away the only good and pure part in his life. As Hadley comes to terms with his feeling about Mary he is also venturing to thwart the man who took away his title and lands and to double cross the woman who brought him into the world of deprivation and stole his innocence all those years ago.
Keeping Mary out of their clutches and near to his heart Hadley will ply and try all the skills of seduction he knows to win the one woman who makes him complete.
After reading a Victoria Vane novel I am always in awe of how she transforms this almost mythical Georgian world by the creatively imaginative dialogue. One of my favorite things about a Victoria Vane book is that her dialogue is so genuine, witty and unique to the time. She capitulates her readers into an opulent world that leaves a readers imagination running wild.
Her characters are in a word—sublime. They are intricately crafted and left this reader genuinely awestruck at how real hey felt. Mary and Hadley are the perfect combination of good and evil. Raised by her loving father Mary is very innocent in the way of the ‘ton’, but she isn’t clueless. She is strong and highly intelligent with a heart of gold. In the Georgian age giving a person the benefit of the doubt would cost you your life; and it almost cost Mary hers. Hadley is all the way at the other spectrum and for the last seven or so years has wallowed in his self-pity over his father death and his innocent roll he played in it. Hadley dived into the vice, drink and whoring and reveled in it. Until he sees Mary. His first instinct is t enacts his revenge, but as the lot thickens and Hadley grows he knows there is more than petty revenge. One of the worst, but have to say I enjoyed her was the viperous vixen and Hadley’s wicked—very wicked and evil step-mother. From the moment she appears on the scene I despised her. Good job, Victoria. This character by far is the most despised and terrifically written villain I have read in a very long time. Victoria Vane makes it so a reader can do nothing but cheer ad root for Barbara’s demise all the while having a love-hate relationship with her.
I simply could not help but fall in-love with the world and characters of TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS. This story is seduction on a stick. Victoria Vane is wonderful at leaving her fans wanting more. And for the first time readers will be clamoring to read more of Victoria Vane’s work.
March 23, 2013
Victoria Vane has penned a very unique and interesting historical erotic romance novel. She adeptly combines elements of incest, BDSM, gay/lesbian sex, and vanilla sex to produce a scintillating read. I was a little timid about reading this novel, but I just couldn't resist the urge to see how the author was going to turn an affair between a stepmother and stepson into a romance. Once I began reading the novel I became hooked and I could not go to sleep without finding out how it ended which is why I am up at 2:00 am writing this review. I wanted to write while it was still fresh on my mind.
Hadley, our hero, leaves London in shame and disgrace after his father commits suicide after finding his son in bed next to his wife. He remains abroad serving as a spy, receiving monetary gifts from his stepmother/lover, and indulging himself in sex and strong drink to dull the hurt and emptiness he feels. Fortuitously the stepmother learns through another man with whom she is having an affair that a common girl has a vast amount of wealth and needs a husband. Immediately she realizes this is just the thing to get Hadley back into her bed and a way to recoup their financial losses.
Hadley arrives fully intent on ravishing Molly, the heroine, but finds that her innocence, purity, and goodness will not allow him to defile her as he has planned. Instead he marries her and spirits her off to protect her from those that would harm her. The author tastefully handles all elements of gay/lesbian romance with no actual gay/lesbian scenes but there rather hints of it throughout the book in keeping with much of what was happening at that period of history. Hadley's sexual relations with his stepmother were handled just as sensitively. I didn't feel grossed out or put upon while reading this. I definitely felt sympathetic toward Hadley because of the many things he suffered after succumbing to seduction by his stepmother. He had a number of redeemable moments in the book, and I found myself wanting to cry for all that he went through. I wanted Molly to be able to get over his past and move on to accept and love him. This book sucked me in, and I refused to put my kindle down until Hadley and Molly found their hopefully happy ending.
The storyline was very original, and I was even more intrigued and appreciative that the author took the time to share actual history that was the genesis of this fictional story. I could easily see that Victoria Vane took her interest in history and married it to her passion for writing romance. She painstakingly lays out the historical elements and events that were blended or modified to form the foundation for the novel. This gave a sense of authenticity to the novel. Don't miss this story Hadley and Molly's love story for it is one that you will never forget. This one puts Victoria Vane at the top of my favorite authors list.
Reviewed by Michelle for Cocktails and Books
Hadley, our hero, leaves London in shame and disgrace after his father commits suicide after finding his son in bed next to his wife. He remains abroad serving as a spy, receiving monetary gifts from his stepmother/lover, and indulging himself in sex and strong drink to dull the hurt and emptiness he feels. Fortuitously the stepmother learns through another man with whom she is having an affair that a common girl has a vast amount of wealth and needs a husband. Immediately she realizes this is just the thing to get Hadley back into her bed and a way to recoup their financial losses.
Hadley arrives fully intent on ravishing Molly, the heroine, but finds that her innocence, purity, and goodness will not allow him to defile her as he has planned. Instead he marries her and spirits her off to protect her from those that would harm her. The author tastefully handles all elements of gay/lesbian romance with no actual gay/lesbian scenes but there rather hints of it throughout the book in keeping with much of what was happening at that period of history. Hadley's sexual relations with his stepmother were handled just as sensitively. I didn't feel grossed out or put upon while reading this. I definitely felt sympathetic toward Hadley because of the many things he suffered after succumbing to seduction by his stepmother. He had a number of redeemable moments in the book, and I found myself wanting to cry for all that he went through. I wanted Molly to be able to get over his past and move on to accept and love him. This book sucked me in, and I refused to put my kindle down until Hadley and Molly found their hopefully happy ending.
The storyline was very original, and I was even more intrigued and appreciative that the author took the time to share actual history that was the genesis of this fictional story. I could easily see that Victoria Vane took her interest in history and married it to her passion for writing romance. She painstakingly lays out the historical elements and events that were blended or modified to form the foundation for the novel. This gave a sense of authenticity to the novel. Don't miss this story Hadley and Molly's love story for it is one that you will never forget. This one puts Victoria Vane at the top of my favorite authors list.
Reviewed by Michelle for Cocktails and Books
February 6, 2013
Victoria Vane writes some of the most intriguing stories! Mary Edwardes has been living in the country, enjoying her life. Her guardian, Sir Richard, informs her it’s time for her to marry and must come to London to find a husband. Little does she know, her guardian plans to use her to further his own interests. He doesn’t care anything about her happiness, only his own.
Hadley has been out of England for the last seven years. Living a life he didn’t really want. When he returns to England he finds himself the pawn of others once again. How will he ever break free.
Barbara is Mary Edwardes companion and Hadley’s step-mother. She has her own plans. She wants to be free of Sir Richard and keep Hadley for herself.
Mary Edwardes and Hadley are put upon a course that will alter their lives forever. Along the way they find themselves falling for each other. But when Mary finds out the truth about Hadley will she continue to trust him?
I love Victoria Vane’s stories. They seldom follow the traditional formula for historical romances and I find that very refreshing and often intriguing.
Treacherous Temptations continues the tradition of Victoria Vane novels by being unexpected! This story has a darker edge to it than most of Victoria Vane’s novels. It’s more sinister and it did not appear we would get an HEA out of it.
Sir Richard and Barbara were absolutely despicable. I couldn’t stand either one of them. They are vile people and it definitely came through!
Hadley was interesting. I wanted to like him and at times I did while at others I detested him. It was quite a quandary for me. I did finally end up liking him in the end but it was touch and go for a while.
Mary Edwardes started out completely likable but I quickly found myself frustrated with her. She was so naïve and trusting. Even after Barbara was so mean to her, Mary continued to trust her. I just wanted to shake her!
The intrigue of the story kept me glued to the pages, as I wanted to discover if Hadley and Mary would get their HEA. I had to know if they discovered the plot between Sir Richard and Mary.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2013
I have been a fan of Ms. Vane’s ever since she contacted me and asked me if I’d like to read A Wild Night’s Bride. Her books are well researched and full of rich history of a time I wish I’d been born into.
Treacherous Temptations was no different.
Hadley is a despicable scoundrel and has wasted the majority of his life drinking and sleeping with as many women as possible, including his stepmother. Despite his penchant for debauchery, I actually really liked Hadley from the beginning and felt that with the right person, he could truly redeem himself and become a better person.
I disliked Barbara and Sir Richard and feel that they deserved each other. She’s a revolting whore who doesn’t feel anything for anyone else unless they can do something for her…and even then she still doesn’t feel anything besides them owing her favors while she spreads her legs for whomever. Sir Richard is just the worst type of scoundrel who gave me the creeps every time I came across his name.
I LOVED Mary! Though she’s naive and far too innocent, I found her absolutely refreshing. She stays pretty much the same throughout the book, but does grow as she learns to stand for what she wants. Her maid, Jenny, amused me so and I would love to see a sweet spinoff where her and James, Hadley’s man, get together.
This is labeled as a dark romance and it truly is, with a touch of smoldering erotica. I wish I could elaborate, but I’d give away far too much and that would just be wrong. This is definitely a book that you want to read on a cold winter’s night…it’ll heat you up in no time.
I eagerly await her next novel with fervent anticipation.
Reviewed By: Angieleigh
Book Provided By: Author
Review originally posted at Romancing The Book.
Treacherous Temptations was no different.
Hadley is a despicable scoundrel and has wasted the majority of his life drinking and sleeping with as many women as possible, including his stepmother. Despite his penchant for debauchery, I actually really liked Hadley from the beginning and felt that with the right person, he could truly redeem himself and become a better person.
I disliked Barbara and Sir Richard and feel that they deserved each other. She’s a revolting whore who doesn’t feel anything for anyone else unless they can do something for her…and even then she still doesn’t feel anything besides them owing her favors while she spreads her legs for whomever. Sir Richard is just the worst type of scoundrel who gave me the creeps every time I came across his name.
I LOVED Mary! Though she’s naive and far too innocent, I found her absolutely refreshing. She stays pretty much the same throughout the book, but does grow as she learns to stand for what she wants. Her maid, Jenny, amused me so and I would love to see a sweet spinoff where her and James, Hadley’s man, get together.
This is labeled as a dark romance and it truly is, with a touch of smoldering erotica. I wish I could elaborate, but I’d give away far too much and that would just be wrong. This is definitely a book that you want to read on a cold winter’s night…it’ll heat you up in no time.
I eagerly await her next novel with fervent anticipation.
Reviewed By: Angieleigh
Book Provided By: Author
Review originally posted at Romancing The Book.
February 13, 2013
Lord Hadley Blanchard is the son of an Earl who has died while under the shadow of a scandal that rocked his world and left him without his entitlements. While living the life of a footloose rogue, he is secretly a spy for the crown. Now Hadley is out for vengeance against the man responsible.
Mary Elizabeth Edwardes an heiress to a very large fortune who must take a husband, whether she wants him or not. Innocent and naive, Mary is forced by Sir Richard, the guardian her father appointed, to leave her country estate and go to London to find said husband.
Meanwhile, Hadley conspires to win her heart and return his family's name to good standing. Having no one to turn to, Mary trusts in Hadley, knowing he could break her heart, not knowing of his own plans.
Through several twists and turns they find how evil and determined their enemies can be.
With great attention to detail, the author has drawn a beautiful picture of the era and settings without overpowering the story.
The romantic tension between Mary and Hadley increases as they get to know each other better, with Mary playing a good student to Hadley's teachings! Hadley gained my sympathy when Mary refused to believe his story of his past and it looked like his heart and his future would now be ruined. A wonderful escape from this century!
This copy was provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC in exchange for an honest review.
Mary Elizabeth Edwardes an heiress to a very large fortune who must take a husband, whether she wants him or not. Innocent and naive, Mary is forced by Sir Richard, the guardian her father appointed, to leave her country estate and go to London to find said husband.
Meanwhile, Hadley conspires to win her heart and return his family's name to good standing. Having no one to turn to, Mary trusts in Hadley, knowing he could break her heart, not knowing of his own plans.
Through several twists and turns they find how evil and determined their enemies can be.
With great attention to detail, the author has drawn a beautiful picture of the era and settings without overpowering the story.
The romantic tension between Mary and Hadley increases as they get to know each other better, with Mary playing a good student to Hadley's teachings! Hadley gained my sympathy when Mary refused to believe his story of his past and it looked like his heart and his future would now be ruined. A wonderful escape from this century!
This copy was provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2013
To read the complete review, visit: Love Saves the World
Disclosure: I received a copy for review as part of the book tour. (Thank you to Entangled Publishing for the opportunity.) Yes, this is an honest review.
Added to the romance between Hadley and Mary, the author also portrays vividly the political machination and maneuverings during this period. The tone of Treacherous Temptations is very different from Vane's very popular Devil DeVere series -- while the DeVere series is light and fun, Treacherous Temptations explores the darker aspect of society. There is a theatrical/cinematic/very dramatic quality to Vane's writing and it is evident in this novel: the way she eloquently creates the hostile atmosphere that Mary finds herself in, as well as the dark tangled web of Barbara and Sir Richard's treacherous plotting and scheming showcases the author's range, expertise and knowledge of the period.
This was an engrossing read, what propels you forward is the need to know whether good (and goodness) will triumph over evil -- I couldn't put the book down until I finished it. ^_^
Disclosure: I received a copy for review as part of the book tour. (Thank you to Entangled Publishing for the opportunity.) Yes, this is an honest review.
Added to the romance between Hadley and Mary, the author also portrays vividly the political machination and maneuverings during this period. The tone of Treacherous Temptations is very different from Vane's very popular Devil DeVere series -- while the DeVere series is light and fun, Treacherous Temptations explores the darker aspect of society. There is a theatrical/cinematic/very dramatic quality to Vane's writing and it is evident in this novel: the way she eloquently creates the hostile atmosphere that Mary finds herself in, as well as the dark tangled web of Barbara and Sir Richard's treacherous plotting and scheming showcases the author's range, expertise and knowledge of the period.
This was an engrossing read, what propels you forward is the need to know whether good (and goodness) will triumph over evil -- I couldn't put the book down until I finished it. ^_^
February 2, 2013
Once again, Victoria Vane has hit the ball out of the park for me. Her latest Georgian gem, TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS lays her usual beautiful historical detail over a wonderful story which brings the reader inexorably back into the past. Traveling from Venice to London to the English countryside, the reader embarks on an adventure of lust, true love, and redemption. The evils of the world are overcome, after more than one arduous leap of faith from both young lovers. As Molly fights to keep her life her own, avoiding the nasty political marriage her guardian has in store for her, she discovers that she has the strength to take her destiny into her own hands. True love triumphs in the end, but only after Molly stands up for herself. I truly recommend this book.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
February 3, 2013Just not for me -- I'm not in the mood to see a "hero" have explicit sex with someone other than the heroine, no matter that he and the heroine have just met. Not my thing.
The writing is good though, and the plot seems interesting, but with the mood I'm in at the moment, I don't think I could be objective enough to rate this as it deserves.
Perhaps I'll revisit it in the future.
DNF, 20% in.
The writing is good though, and the plot seems interesting, but with the mood I'm in at the moment, I don't think I could be objective enough to rate this as it deserves.
Perhaps I'll revisit it in the future.
DNF, 20% in.
August 19, 2014
Immediately engrossing yet horrifically heart-wrenching, this tale of greed and debauchery set against innocence and trust will have the reader aching for Mary as she learns the terrible lessons in life while falling in love.
Full review in April 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Full review in April 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 9, 2013
Review will be posted shortly at Romancing the Book's blog.
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