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Secret Life of a Scandalous Debutante
Just another dull debutante?From boxing at Jackson's to dancing starry-eyed society belles around London's ballrooms, Beldon Stratten is the perfect English gentleman. And he's looking for a perfectly bland, respectable wife.Appearances can be deceiving…Exotic Lilya Stefanov is anything but bland. Beldon is intrigued to see that the ragamuffin girl he once knew has matured into an elegant lady, poised and polite!But beneath the mysterious beauty's evening gowns and polished etiquette lies a dangerous secret—and a scandalous sensuality…
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
7 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
Bronwyn Scott
350 books170 followersBronwyn Scott writes historical romances for Harlequin, Mills and Boon. She has 50 titles currently in print with them.
Bronwyn's 2018 release, Dancing with the Duke's Heir was RITA finalist.
Bronwyn's 2009 novel, The Viscount Claims His Bride was a RomCon finalist for best short historical, as was her 2011 release, A Thoroughly Compromised Lady.
Bronwyn's 2018 release, Dancing with the Duke's Heir was RITA finalist.
Bronwyn's 2009 novel, The Viscount Claims His Bride was a RomCon finalist for best short historical, as was her 2011 release, A Thoroughly Compromised Lady.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 17, 2011
Reviewed for Wickedly Bookish
http://wickedlybookish.blogspot.com/
Beldon Stratten is the epitome of the perfect English gentleman and he just so happens to be in the market for a bride. He knows exactly what he wants, a perfectly proper English rose, that is, until Lilya Stefanov waltzes into his life and takes him for a wild ride. Liliya is the bearer of a rare diamond that many dangerous men would kill to get their hands on. Now Lilya must choose between protecting her family's legacy or embracing a happily-ever-after with the man she loves.
I don't feel like the title does this book justice. It suggests that Lilya is scandalous and improper. Her character is actually quite the opposite. She is sweet, intelligent, and courageous as she secretly protects her family's legacy from those who would use it to gain power. Of all the Harlequin titles I have read, Secret Life's heroine has to be my favorite. She was such a strong willed, unselfish model that I couldn't help but like her. Beldon's character came across like a weak cup of tea for most of the book, until near the end when he faces losing Lilya. He really steps up at this point in the story and takes charge of things. Beldon isn't the alpha male I usually enjoy, however he does have his sweet English charm.
The story is really what sets this book apart from others within the Harlequin-Historical lineup. The romance feels like it was built to fit around the story, instead of the story facilitating the romance, which was really nice. Many other books like this have left me feeling like the author created the situations in this story just to give the couple an excuse to get steamy. Scott manages to make every encounter between Lilya and Beldon feel spontaneous and realistic; loving and sultry as their relationship grows through the dangers hey encounter.
Overall, this was an engaging quick read with a memorable couple and a very sweet romance. You can pick up a copy for your reading pleasure September 6th.
http://wickedlybookish.blogspot.com/
Beldon Stratten is the epitome of the perfect English gentleman and he just so happens to be in the market for a bride. He knows exactly what he wants, a perfectly proper English rose, that is, until Lilya Stefanov waltzes into his life and takes him for a wild ride. Liliya is the bearer of a rare diamond that many dangerous men would kill to get their hands on. Now Lilya must choose between protecting her family's legacy or embracing a happily-ever-after with the man she loves.
I don't feel like the title does this book justice. It suggests that Lilya is scandalous and improper. Her character is actually quite the opposite. She is sweet, intelligent, and courageous as she secretly protects her family's legacy from those who would use it to gain power. Of all the Harlequin titles I have read, Secret Life's heroine has to be my favorite. She was such a strong willed, unselfish model that I couldn't help but like her. Beldon's character came across like a weak cup of tea for most of the book, until near the end when he faces losing Lilya. He really steps up at this point in the story and takes charge of things. Beldon isn't the alpha male I usually enjoy, however he does have his sweet English charm.
The story is really what sets this book apart from others within the Harlequin-Historical lineup. The romance feels like it was built to fit around the story, instead of the story facilitating the romance, which was really nice. Many other books like this have left me feeling like the author created the situations in this story just to give the couple an excuse to get steamy. Scott manages to make every encounter between Lilya and Beldon feel spontaneous and realistic; loving and sultry as their relationship grows through the dangers hey encounter.
Overall, this was an engaging quick read with a memorable couple and a very sweet romance. You can pick up a copy for your reading pleasure September 6th.
March 9, 2025
this book was ok but not as good as the last two i read. its a shame. it had the makings to be a really good book. but i just don't feel the love between the hero and heroine. there is passion and lust yes but otherwise.
June 19, 2019
I didn't like much the unconventional HAE and the vengeance against the animals, but it was a rather enjoyable reading.
April 26, 2018
A fairly original story while sticking to a traditional romance. I don't really get where the 'scandalous' part comes in. But it was quite good.
January 2, 2012
Originally posted at: http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...
A secret life with a scandalous destiny. A strong-minded, courageous woman, sworn to uphold her family’s lifelong mission. And the man who can give her the one thing she never believed she could have. Bronwyn Scott’s Secret Life of a Scandalous Debutante takes these delicious ingredients and creates a mouth-watering romance to savor on a cool autumn night.
At the heart of the novel is the chemistry between Belton Stratten and Lilya Stefanov. Neither seeks romance with the other, yet they are inevitably drawn to one another despite circumstances that suggest disaster will be the outcome of such a liaison. The two are very much alike—decisive, honorable, passionate—filled with a sense of duty to family. These shared traits become apparent early on, giving the reader impetus to root for the couple who are obviously “made for each other.” Lilya’s character is particularly well drawn as womanly in a strength yet not easily swayed from her duty. She is both of her time period yet with a modern sensibility of purpose beyond the personal.
I also especially liked the way Ms. Scott handled the political elements of her story. The external conflict, the Greek bid for independence during the early 19th century, creates Lilya’s major motivation and ensuing internal conflict, leading to her rejection of romance. Yet the politics and intrigue in no way overshadowed the romantic elements of the story. The novel seemed nicely positioned in the time period and I applaud the use of this seemingly little known historical event as the catalyst for her story.
Unfortunately, a major drawback in the novel for me was the lack of judicious editing. Even if I did not have knowledge of the elements editors seek to correct, I would wonder at some of the errors I found in the book. Words and names are repeated excessively within paragraphs, the worst offender being a character’s name repeated three times in one paragraph. And several inconsistencies were apparent: a character addressed as “Lady” on one page was called “Miss” on another, the anachronistic use of the word “milquetoast,” and the lack of mention of a corset as Lilya is undressed in a time period in which women would have worn one. These were little things that kept pulling me out of a novel I enjoyed being immersed in. A firm editorial pen could have made my experience even more pleasurable.
Secret Life of a Scandalous Debutante is a wonderful love story, set against the backdrop of political intrigue and treachery. The hero and heroine steadfastly battle for what is right, not just for them, but for the world and its larger canvas. Their selfless devotion shines throughout the novel, bringing all the savory ingredients from a slow simmer to a passionate boil. My hope is that you take the time enjoy the feast.
A secret life with a scandalous destiny. A strong-minded, courageous woman, sworn to uphold her family’s lifelong mission. And the man who can give her the one thing she never believed she could have. Bronwyn Scott’s Secret Life of a Scandalous Debutante takes these delicious ingredients and creates a mouth-watering romance to savor on a cool autumn night.
At the heart of the novel is the chemistry between Belton Stratten and Lilya Stefanov. Neither seeks romance with the other, yet they are inevitably drawn to one another despite circumstances that suggest disaster will be the outcome of such a liaison. The two are very much alike—decisive, honorable, passionate—filled with a sense of duty to family. These shared traits become apparent early on, giving the reader impetus to root for the couple who are obviously “made for each other.” Lilya’s character is particularly well drawn as womanly in a strength yet not easily swayed from her duty. She is both of her time period yet with a modern sensibility of purpose beyond the personal.
I also especially liked the way Ms. Scott handled the political elements of her story. The external conflict, the Greek bid for independence during the early 19th century, creates Lilya’s major motivation and ensuing internal conflict, leading to her rejection of romance. Yet the politics and intrigue in no way overshadowed the romantic elements of the story. The novel seemed nicely positioned in the time period and I applaud the use of this seemingly little known historical event as the catalyst for her story.
Unfortunately, a major drawback in the novel for me was the lack of judicious editing. Even if I did not have knowledge of the elements editors seek to correct, I would wonder at some of the errors I found in the book. Words and names are repeated excessively within paragraphs, the worst offender being a character’s name repeated three times in one paragraph. And several inconsistencies were apparent: a character addressed as “Lady” on one page was called “Miss” on another, the anachronistic use of the word “milquetoast,” and the lack of mention of a corset as Lilya is undressed in a time period in which women would have worn one. These were little things that kept pulling me out of a novel I enjoyed being immersed in. A firm editorial pen could have made my experience even more pleasurable.
Secret Life of a Scandalous Debutante is a wonderful love story, set against the backdrop of political intrigue and treachery. The hero and heroine steadfastly battle for what is right, not just for them, but for the world and its larger canvas. Their selfless devotion shines throughout the novel, bringing all the savory ingredients from a slow simmer to a passionate boil. My hope is that you take the time enjoy the feast.
October 22, 2011
I always enjoy reading Bronwyn Scott. Her characters are intriguing and fun, her storylines sizzle and are action packed. This time we take a dangerous journey with Beldon and Lilya, two opposites who try their best to resist the attraction between them, only to find the love of a lifetime, ending with an adventure to keep those they love safe and an exciting place to begin their new life together.
Beldon Stratten, Barron Pendennys, is an English girl’s dream, the perfect gentleman, and he’s in need of a wife. She must be respectable and polite, one bred to be the perfect partner of someone of his station. She must also bring financial security to their union, especially after all the years it’s taken him to rebuild his holdings. So here he is at the beginning of the season, trying to pick and choose among the available misses. Until he spies a sexy, bare back.
In London visiting with her guardian, Valerian Inglemoore, Viscount St. Just, Lilya is biding her time until she’s forced on the run again because of her duty to family and country - she’s the protector of a precious stone that can change the fate of nations. Taking her responsibility seriously, Lilya has learned to be diligent and self-sufficient in keeping the gem out of the wrong hands. Coming face to face with Beldon again, she’s intrigued by the changes that have resulted in the confident and handsome man he’s become. As intrigued as she is by him, he’s not for her. Too dangerous to become involved with.
She’s not for him. Too beautiful, too exotic, to exciting. Beldon has to keep his focus to make the right decision. But when one of her countrymen shows interest in Lilya, suspicions begin to flow, and the only way to keep her truly safe is for her to never leave his side. The logical thing is marriage, despite Lilya’s protestations. She’s better at running. But Beldon won’t be swayed and they are immediately wed. Thus begins their life journey of exploration, danger, excitement, and an all-consuming love that grows so beautifully between them.
I like how Beldon adds dangerous protector to his perfect gentleman facade. He takes every precaution to keep his wife safe, and still the evil comes after them. In the midst of all this, they enjoy exploring each other, finding out about one another both in bed and out. They began as two people who knew they would never mesh, but they now are a team with charm and wit, who outwit a league of villains to grow old together, starting life anew away from anyone and everything that means the world to them. What’s not to love about that kind of romance?
This is a fun, quick read, one that will leave you quite happy when you reach the last page.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
Beldon Stratten, Barron Pendennys, is an English girl’s dream, the perfect gentleman, and he’s in need of a wife. She must be respectable and polite, one bred to be the perfect partner of someone of his station. She must also bring financial security to their union, especially after all the years it’s taken him to rebuild his holdings. So here he is at the beginning of the season, trying to pick and choose among the available misses. Until he spies a sexy, bare back.
In London visiting with her guardian, Valerian Inglemoore, Viscount St. Just, Lilya is biding her time until she’s forced on the run again because of her duty to family and country - she’s the protector of a precious stone that can change the fate of nations. Taking her responsibility seriously, Lilya has learned to be diligent and self-sufficient in keeping the gem out of the wrong hands. Coming face to face with Beldon again, she’s intrigued by the changes that have resulted in the confident and handsome man he’s become. As intrigued as she is by him, he’s not for her. Too dangerous to become involved with.
She’s not for him. Too beautiful, too exotic, to exciting. Beldon has to keep his focus to make the right decision. But when one of her countrymen shows interest in Lilya, suspicions begin to flow, and the only way to keep her truly safe is for her to never leave his side. The logical thing is marriage, despite Lilya’s protestations. She’s better at running. But Beldon won’t be swayed and they are immediately wed. Thus begins their life journey of exploration, danger, excitement, and an all-consuming love that grows so beautifully between them.
I like how Beldon adds dangerous protector to his perfect gentleman facade. He takes every precaution to keep his wife safe, and still the evil comes after them. In the midst of all this, they enjoy exploring each other, finding out about one another both in bed and out. They began as two people who knew they would never mesh, but they now are a team with charm and wit, who outwit a league of villains to grow old together, starting life anew away from anyone and everything that means the world to them. What’s not to love about that kind of romance?
This is a fun, quick read, one that will leave you quite happy when you reach the last page.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
September 24, 2011
This historical romance, provided by netgalley, was a pleasant read, with some aspects which I really appreciated, but, on the whole, failed to satisfy.
I have a feeling that it may have been part of a series, and this may have affected how I perceived it, although I couldn't find any reference to a predecessor book.
Things I liked about this one:
- The setting - I loved the use of Cornwall as a setting. I have spent vacations in St. Just-in-Roseland, and it is a beautiful place. I wished that the author had made more of it, to be honest, and spent a bit more time describing it, rather than assuming that the average reader would know what it was like (Cornwall is very different than most of the UK).
- The period and history - I really liked how the author chose a very specific incident in history (Greek Independence) and centered the story around the events of one part of that incident. It was a novelty to have a story set when Europe was essentially a patchwork of revolution, and to feel that England and London was a more cosmopolitan place than most HRs imply, and that Europe consisted of more than just England and dastardly France.
What I didn't like so much:
- The romance - they fell in love far, far too quickly. The romance just came too easily for both of them, and in such a way that it felt, sadly, rather boring. She's gorgeous and exotic, he's an Adonis... yawn, yawn.. I mean, the hero has known her since she was little more than a 10 year-old, and he doesn't find that slightly concerning, or creepy? Hmmm.
- The heroine - She is supposed to be a protector, well-trained and not afraid to show fighting skill when needed. In fact, she spends a considerable amount of time telling herself and the hero that she doesn't need help, and can look after herself. She's supposed to be this super-smart, spy-like cautious guardian of her country's fortune, but one touch from the hero through her glove and she's putty. I just really struggled to go with that, since she really wasn't the strong person that the hero spent a large part of his internal dialogue telling us and himself that she was.
- The hero - He is supposed to be this ultra-honorable, straight-up good gentleman, but he comes across as rather selfish, to be honest. He twists his honorable intentions to justify playing hunt-the-sausage with the heroine as soon as possible.
- The cover - now I know I don't like really commenting on the cover over-much, but really, this was a pretty poor effort.
So, an OK read, 2 stars, but the plot, the setting and the characters didn't quite make it for me.
I have a feeling that it may have been part of a series, and this may have affected how I perceived it, although I couldn't find any reference to a predecessor book.
Things I liked about this one:
- The setting - I loved the use of Cornwall as a setting. I have spent vacations in St. Just-in-Roseland, and it is a beautiful place. I wished that the author had made more of it, to be honest, and spent a bit more time describing it, rather than assuming that the average reader would know what it was like (Cornwall is very different than most of the UK).
- The period and history - I really liked how the author chose a very specific incident in history (Greek Independence) and centered the story around the events of one part of that incident. It was a novelty to have a story set when Europe was essentially a patchwork of revolution, and to feel that England and London was a more cosmopolitan place than most HRs imply, and that Europe consisted of more than just England and dastardly France.
What I didn't like so much:
- The romance - they fell in love far, far too quickly. The romance just came too easily for both of them, and in such a way that it felt, sadly, rather boring. She's gorgeous and exotic, he's an Adonis... yawn, yawn.. I mean, the hero has known her since she was little more than a 10 year-old, and he doesn't find that slightly concerning, or creepy? Hmmm.
- The heroine - She is supposed to be a protector, well-trained and not afraid to show fighting skill when needed. In fact, she spends a considerable amount of time telling herself and the hero that she doesn't need help, and can look after herself. She's supposed to be this super-smart, spy-like cautious guardian of her country's fortune, but one touch from the hero through her glove and she's putty. I just really struggled to go with that, since she really wasn't the strong person that the hero spent a large part of his internal dialogue telling us and himself that she was.
- The hero - He is supposed to be this ultra-honorable, straight-up good gentleman, but he comes across as rather selfish, to be honest. He twists his honorable intentions to justify playing hunt-the-sausage with the heroine as soon as possible.
- The cover - now I know I don't like really commenting on the cover over-much, but really, this was a pretty poor effort.
So, an OK read, 2 stars, but the plot, the setting and the characters didn't quite make it for me.
September 26, 2011
An interesting adventure historical romance from Bronwyn Scott. The hero and heroine were extremely appealing with vast layers to their characters.
Beldon Stratten Baron Penedennys, at first blush is the epitome of the very proper English gentleman. He is attending balls to find himself a very staid and proper English young lady to take as a bride. Being extremely handsome in both face and form, he shouldn't have any difficulty attaining this goal. However, his attention is drawn to the complete opposite of staid, Lilya Stefanov. He is drawn to her by seeing her back, which was exposed in a rather daring gown. I love how Beldon seduced her in his mind. Imagine his shock in finding out the woman with the glorious back is none other than Lilya, his friend Valerian's ward. She had grown up into a stunning creature. Unfortunately, Lilya does not meet his criteria, she would not integrate into English society. Also he had to marry for money, of which Lilya had none, except from Valerian's dowry and Beldon could not take money from his friend.
Lilya is not immune to Beldon's rapt attention, she also is intrigued. Beldon emanates an aura of power, but also controlled reserve. Lilya senses passions lurk behind the impenetrable fortress he has up. From a simple touch and a sizzling dance, Lilya is attracted, but decides Beldon is not for her. He is too dangerous. Dangerous to her plans. Lilya is not your normal debutante. She is the keeper of a secret. In her possession is a diamond, which could turn the fate of nations.
A stunningly executed set up to a rousing adventure read. Even though Beldon and Lilya dismiss each other as potential marital material, it seems fate has other designs. Another suitor appears on the scene, Christoph Agyros. Is he interested in Lilya's beauty or what she may have in her possession?
There is an intriguing back story of Lilya's tragic past in Negush, Greece. All involving the secret diamond. When Beldon discovers Agyros intentions are not honorable and entirely mercenary, Beldon offers for Lilya's hand in marriage. He feels it is the only way he can protect her. Lilya soon gets past her annoyance, as the cool and reserved Beldon is a smoldering cauldron of desire underneath. Agyros was a fine villain.
Both the hero and heroine were interesting with many fascinating layers. Beldon especially was well done. His calm reserve masks a passionate, capable hero. The love scenes snapped and crackled. The plot richly dense and well plotted. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A sizzling romance wrapped in a rousing adventure.
3.75 out of 4 stars for the book
Posted at The Romanorum and The Season
Beldon Stratten Baron Penedennys, at first blush is the epitome of the very proper English gentleman. He is attending balls to find himself a very staid and proper English young lady to take as a bride. Being extremely handsome in both face and form, he shouldn't have any difficulty attaining this goal. However, his attention is drawn to the complete opposite of staid, Lilya Stefanov. He is drawn to her by seeing her back, which was exposed in a rather daring gown. I love how Beldon seduced her in his mind. Imagine his shock in finding out the woman with the glorious back is none other than Lilya, his friend Valerian's ward. She had grown up into a stunning creature. Unfortunately, Lilya does not meet his criteria, she would not integrate into English society. Also he had to marry for money, of which Lilya had none, except from Valerian's dowry and Beldon could not take money from his friend.
Lilya is not immune to Beldon's rapt attention, she also is intrigued. Beldon emanates an aura of power, but also controlled reserve. Lilya senses passions lurk behind the impenetrable fortress he has up. From a simple touch and a sizzling dance, Lilya is attracted, but decides Beldon is not for her. He is too dangerous. Dangerous to her plans. Lilya is not your normal debutante. She is the keeper of a secret. In her possession is a diamond, which could turn the fate of nations.
A stunningly executed set up to a rousing adventure read. Even though Beldon and Lilya dismiss each other as potential marital material, it seems fate has other designs. Another suitor appears on the scene, Christoph Agyros. Is he interested in Lilya's beauty or what she may have in her possession?
There is an intriguing back story of Lilya's tragic past in Negush, Greece. All involving the secret diamond. When Beldon discovers Agyros intentions are not honorable and entirely mercenary, Beldon offers for Lilya's hand in marriage. He feels it is the only way he can protect her. Lilya soon gets past her annoyance, as the cool and reserved Beldon is a smoldering cauldron of desire underneath. Agyros was a fine villain.
Both the hero and heroine were interesting with many fascinating layers. Beldon especially was well done. His calm reserve masks a passionate, capable hero. The love scenes snapped and crackled. The plot richly dense and well plotted. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A sizzling romance wrapped in a rousing adventure.
3.75 out of 4 stars for the book
Posted at The Romanorum and The Season
August 22, 2011
Secret Life of a Scandalous Debutante by Bronwyn Scott. ISBN- 978-0-373-29658-3
The Viscount Claims His Bride precedes this book. They are stand alone but it may help to read this one first to understand more about Valerian & Philippa. As this story is about Beldon Stratten who is Valerian's best friend and Philippa's brother.
Beldon Stratten, the fourth Baron Pendennys, his life is all mapped out. He had worked the last ten years to restore the estates and get his affairs in order. Now he was wife hunting. He had a list of the type of wife he needed and he was at the beginning of the London season to find her. He would not be distracted by the alluring luscious back he was looking at. Such perfect shoulder curves and her raven black hair along with that beautiful neck. What a fantasy his mind went to. Then she turned and he recognized her as his brother-in-laws ward, Lilya Stefanov. She was not on his list and could not be. He could not take a dowry from Valerian and he did need a wife with wealth to help keep the estates in order. Yet he needed to go and see her.
Lilya saw Beldon coming towards her. His kiss to her hand sent feelings through her that none of these other men did. And when they waltzed together it was wonderful. She had a secret to keep though and she would not risk love or marriage. She seen all her family murdered for the secret, all but her baby brother Constantine and herself survived in the escape from Negush. Too many lives depended on her as the keeper, she would not fail it was her duty. She could still enjoy Beldon for awhile though.
Beldon set his eyes on an Earl's daughter. She would be trained to be a good mistress for his home and she had the dowry. Even if she did not boil his blood as one exotic young woman did. Beldon tried to stay away from Lilya but it seemed that was not so easy.
Christoph Agyro, a member of a secret society, had a plan. He was sure Lilya had what he was sent for. He would woo her, marry her and take the prize for himself rather then return it to the Filiki Adamao. Women did not refuse his dark good looks and he established with her they were fellow countryman who both lost families in the war back home. Only she seemed to have eyes for the Baron more than she did him. That would not do.
A story of dangerous secrets, plans gone awry, greed turning into madness, unexpected love and what one would give up for such love.
Contains sexual situations
Received from NetGalley for review
The Viscount Claims His Bride precedes this book. They are stand alone but it may help to read this one first to understand more about Valerian & Philippa. As this story is about Beldon Stratten who is Valerian's best friend and Philippa's brother.
Beldon Stratten, the fourth Baron Pendennys, his life is all mapped out. He had worked the last ten years to restore the estates and get his affairs in order. Now he was wife hunting. He had a list of the type of wife he needed and he was at the beginning of the London season to find her. He would not be distracted by the alluring luscious back he was looking at. Such perfect shoulder curves and her raven black hair along with that beautiful neck. What a fantasy his mind went to. Then she turned and he recognized her as his brother-in-laws ward, Lilya Stefanov. She was not on his list and could not be. He could not take a dowry from Valerian and he did need a wife with wealth to help keep the estates in order. Yet he needed to go and see her.
Lilya saw Beldon coming towards her. His kiss to her hand sent feelings through her that none of these other men did. And when they waltzed together it was wonderful. She had a secret to keep though and she would not risk love or marriage. She seen all her family murdered for the secret, all but her baby brother Constantine and herself survived in the escape from Negush. Too many lives depended on her as the keeper, she would not fail it was her duty. She could still enjoy Beldon for awhile though.
Beldon set his eyes on an Earl's daughter. She would be trained to be a good mistress for his home and she had the dowry. Even if she did not boil his blood as one exotic young woman did. Beldon tried to stay away from Lilya but it seemed that was not so easy.
Christoph Agyro, a member of a secret society, had a plan. He was sure Lilya had what he was sent for. He would woo her, marry her and take the prize for himself rather then return it to the Filiki Adamao. Women did not refuse his dark good looks and he established with her they were fellow countryman who both lost families in the war back home. Only she seemed to have eyes for the Baron more than she did him. That would not do.
A story of dangerous secrets, plans gone awry, greed turning into madness, unexpected love and what one would give up for such love.
Contains sexual situations
Received from NetGalley for review
March 3, 2012
Lilya has a secret, one that could very well end her life if she's not careful. Strong willed, elegant and exotic - she is nothing like the typical young ladies out for the season. While she puts of a front to fend of those who could find out who she really is; she finds herself attracted to Beldon. Someone who could throw her plans into complete chaos.
Beldon Stratten is looking for a wife. What he wants and what he needs are two completely different things. The one woman who catches his eye, and could be everything he needs is totally unsuitable. She has no money, she in his opinion will never integrate into society fully - she was too different.
There are so many twists and turns in the story, hidden identities, dangerous plots, secrets that could kill - the characters have to overcome a great deal before they get their happy ending. I don't want to give anything about about what happens to Lilya and Beldon... so you'll have to pick up the story to find out!
I really enjoyed reading the story of Beldon and Lilya; how they both had plans and ended up somewhere completely different. This was a first for me by this author, and I was really impressed with her writing style, how it flowed and the characters. I will definitely be looking for more by this author.
Beldon Stratten is looking for a wife. What he wants and what he needs are two completely different things. The one woman who catches his eye, and could be everything he needs is totally unsuitable. She has no money, she in his opinion will never integrate into society fully - she was too different.
There are so many twists and turns in the story, hidden identities, dangerous plots, secrets that could kill - the characters have to overcome a great deal before they get their happy ending. I don't want to give anything about about what happens to Lilya and Beldon... so you'll have to pick up the story to find out!
I really enjoyed reading the story of Beldon and Lilya; how they both had plans and ended up somewhere completely different. This was a first for me by this author, and I was really impressed with her writing style, how it flowed and the characters. I will definitely be looking for more by this author.
October 21, 2011
I am reviewing this book for Net Galley.
Secret Life of a Scandalous Debutante by Bronwyn Scott tells the story of Lilya Stefanov , an exoitic beautiful debutante and Beldon Stratten, a handsome English gentleman. Having known Lilya when she was a young ragamuffin, Beldon is mesmerized by the beauty Lilya has become. Lilya has no desire to marry and has spent the last few years fulfilling an oath to her dead father by safekeeping a valuable family jewel, a diamond that others are trying to find. Beldon has come to London because he wants to procure a bride who is meek and submissive and will not pull at his heartstrings as he has no desire to fall in love.
Christoph Agyros is part of a group known as the Brotherhood of the Diamond which has been has been trying to find this diamond. Their search has led them to the conclusion that Lilya Stefanov has possession of the diamond and Christoph is determined to obtain it. Overcome with greed, Christoph has decided to court Lilya and find the diamond for himself. He will stop at nothing to get the diamond.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story as the relationship of Lilya and Beldon developed into love and the race to outsmart the devious Christoph. I highly recommend this book.
Secret Life of a Scandalous Debutante by Bronwyn Scott tells the story of Lilya Stefanov , an exoitic beautiful debutante and Beldon Stratten, a handsome English gentleman. Having known Lilya when she was a young ragamuffin, Beldon is mesmerized by the beauty Lilya has become. Lilya has no desire to marry and has spent the last few years fulfilling an oath to her dead father by safekeeping a valuable family jewel, a diamond that others are trying to find. Beldon has come to London because he wants to procure a bride who is meek and submissive and will not pull at his heartstrings as he has no desire to fall in love.
Christoph Agyros is part of a group known as the Brotherhood of the Diamond which has been has been trying to find this diamond. Their search has led them to the conclusion that Lilya Stefanov has possession of the diamond and Christoph is determined to obtain it. Overcome with greed, Christoph has decided to court Lilya and find the diamond for himself. He will stop at nothing to get the diamond.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story as the relationship of Lilya and Beldon developed into love and the race to outsmart the devious Christoph. I highly recommend this book.
March 16, 2014
I would describe this novel as traditional Scott, a fairly predictable plot with likeable characters and a 'menacing' subplot.
The reasons for this novel being a two star rather than their usual three are as follows:
I really disliked Lilya as a lead. She was whiney and over stubborn and selfish. I was half hoping Beldon would chuck her over the side of a boat.
Second, I really hated the ending. In these types of novels the author really has a creative license to do I whatever they want.
Not one of my favorites by Scott.
The reasons for this novel being a two star rather than their usual three are as follows:
I really disliked Lilya as a lead. She was whiney and over stubborn and selfish. I was half hoping Beldon would chuck her over the side of a boat.
Second, I really hated the ending. In these types of novels the author really has a creative license to do I whatever they want.
Not one of my favorites by Scott.
July 21, 2015
What bothers readers about this story is its ending. Most readers enjoy the satisfying sense of family, home and belonging. While Scott does her usual sterling job at developing believable, round and dynamic characters, the resolution is disappointing. All we need is each other! This is what the characters assert at the end. However, most of us are pleased when an ending suggests the couple will be surrounded by family and friends. That message of safety and security of membership within a group, would have made more sense at the ending. Also, a solution to our heroine's dilemma might have been to sell the diamond or give it to the British government for safekeeping until the Greek political circumstances were resolved. At no time do our protagonists call on BK spies, or other dangerous and well-equipped warriors or strategists. That might have helped our poor struggling duo. However, given the difficulty and complexity of the historical circumstances, one can understand the author's choice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2011
SECRET LIFE OF A SCANDALOUS DEBUTANTE by Bronwyn Scott is an exciting historical romance set in Regency England. It has everything a reader could want in a historical romance. It has secets,romance,passion,danger,political intrigue,danerous secrets,greed,betrayal,unexpected love,treachery,destiny,sexuality, sensual tension,and the keeper of an ancient relic. It is the story of Beldon Stratten,the fourth Baron of Pendenny's,best friend of Valerian,brother of Phillippa,and Lilya Stefanov's Valerian's ward,who holds an ancient secret that could get them all killed. This is a fast paced story of love,life,and how life does not always turn out as it has been mapped out for you. A must read for any historical romance readers who enjoy a bit of usual in their romances. Received for review from Net Galley and the publisher. Details can be found at HQN and My Book Addiction Reviews.
July 10, 2012
I actually really enjoyed the buildup in this book. Once I got through the first 4 chapters in a few nights and then last night I read Ch. 5- the end in one go because I could not put it down. The story was always building to the point where you could suspect where things were going to go but you weren't exactly sure. One thing I loved about this book is how you got to see the characters grow and develop.
July 27, 2016
2.5 stars/
Non so good, not so bad. I needed a book to kill some time while traveling and it did it.
I didn't really have much expectations about it so I was not disappointed.
A few moments were actually quite funny and entertaining.
Non so good, not so bad. I needed a book to kill some time while traveling and it did it.
I didn't really have much expectations about it so I was not disappointed.
A few moments were actually quite funny and entertaining.
August 16, 2011
Well developed and likable characters. A complex plot of the mystical lure of a famed gem and the intrigue in protecting it.
September 4, 2011
I knew I shouldn't have when I saw it was to do with a minor Balkan country.
August 20, 2016
Good sequal; loved Beldon and how he gave up EVERYTHING for Lilya. She was a bit strange but still a good story.
April 16, 2012
lost interest half way through the book ... horribly predictable.
March 21, 2013
Coulda been better
July 13, 2014
It may be just me ot what?
So you think safekeeping a big chunk of rock can be tagged as 'scandalous'? Eerr, I beg to disagree.
So you think safekeeping a big chunk of rock can be tagged as 'scandalous'? Eerr, I beg to disagree.
April 4, 2015
The story had potential, but lost me because of the horses.
December 12, 2015
peculiar ending, but i liked it :)
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