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Drake's Rakes #3
Always a Temptress
His greatest battle is just beginning . . .Captain Harry Lidge has done his duty. After losing too many good men on the battlefield, he's ready to put his responsibilities behind him and live a life free of care. But first he has one last find out what the most outrageous woman in London, the same woman who betrayed him nearly a decade earlier, is concealing, before her secrets take down the crown.Her heart is the only thing she won't risk . . . Surrounded by ardent admirers and a few loyal friends, Lady Kate Seaton glides through the ton on a confection of couture gowns and bon mots. No one suspects that beneath her lighthearted façade Kate hides a sorrow so scandalous she'll do anything to keep it hidden. But only when she trusts Harry with the truth and only when he trusts her with his heart can they stop the villains all too willing to kill Kate to attain their ultimate destroy England
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2011
39 people are currently reading
1279 people want to read
About the author
Eileen Dreyer
74 books766 followersNew York Times bestselling, award-winning author Eileen Dreyer, known as Kathleen Korbel to her Silhouette readers, has published 28 romance novels, 8 medico-forensic suspenses, and 7 short stories.
2012 sees Eileen enjoying critical acclaim for her first foray into historical romance, the Drake's Rakes series, which follow the lives of a group of British aristocrats who are willing to sacrifice everything to keep their country safe. After publication of the first trilogy in the series, she has just signed for the next trilogy, following the graduates of the aptly named Last Chance Academy, who each finds herself crossing swords with Drake's Rakes. Eileen spent time not only in England and Italy, but India to research the series (it's a filthy job, but somebody has to do it).
A retired trauma nurse, Eileen lives in her native St. Louis with her husband, children, and large and noisy Irish family, of which she is the reluctant matriarch. She has animals but refuses to subject them to the limelight.
Dreyer won her first publishing award in 1987, being named the best new Contemporary Romance Author by RT Bookclub. Since that time she has also garnered not only five other writing awards from RT, but five RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, which secures her only the fourth place in the Romance Writers of America prestigious Hall of Fame. Since extending her reach to suspense, she has also garnered a coveted Anthony Award nomination.
A frequent speaker at conferences, she maintains membership in Romance Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and, just in case things go wrong, Emergency Nurses Association and International Association of Forensic Nurses.
Eileen is an addicted traveler, having sung in some of the best Irish pubs in the world, and admits she sees research as a handy way to salve her insatiable curiosity. She counts film producers, police detectives and Olympic athletes as some of her sources and friends. She's also trained in forensic nursing and death investigation, although she doesn't see herself actively working in the field, unless this writing thing doesn't pan out.
Get in touch: eileendreyer@eileendreyer.com
2012 sees Eileen enjoying critical acclaim for her first foray into historical romance, the Drake's Rakes series, which follow the lives of a group of British aristocrats who are willing to sacrifice everything to keep their country safe. After publication of the first trilogy in the series, she has just signed for the next trilogy, following the graduates of the aptly named Last Chance Academy, who each finds herself crossing swords with Drake's Rakes. Eileen spent time not only in England and Italy, but India to research the series (it's a filthy job, but somebody has to do it).
A retired trauma nurse, Eileen lives in her native St. Louis with her husband, children, and large and noisy Irish family, of which she is the reluctant matriarch. She has animals but refuses to subject them to the limelight.
Dreyer won her first publishing award in 1987, being named the best new Contemporary Romance Author by RT Bookclub. Since that time she has also garnered not only five other writing awards from RT, but five RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, which secures her only the fourth place in the Romance Writers of America prestigious Hall of Fame. Since extending her reach to suspense, she has also garnered a coveted Anthony Award nomination.
A frequent speaker at conferences, she maintains membership in Romance Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and, just in case things go wrong, Emergency Nurses Association and International Association of Forensic Nurses.
Eileen is an addicted traveler, having sung in some of the best Irish pubs in the world, and admits she sees research as a handy way to salve her insatiable curiosity. She counts film producers, police detectives and Olympic athletes as some of her sources and friends. She's also trained in forensic nursing and death investigation, although she doesn't see herself actively working in the field, unless this writing thing doesn't pan out.
Get in touch: eileendreyer@eileendreyer.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
June 6, 2020
HE NEVER SAYS SORRY!
The rest doesn't matter to me.
I love this author's premises but end up hating the books (like the previous two in the series) as she picks very tricky and intriguing tropes but then sadly, fails to bring things together.
So, I waited years before picking up book #3 in the series. But then, Kate and Harry always were a fascinating couple.
The rest doesn't matter to me.
I love this author's premises but end up hating the books (like the previous two in the series) as she picks very tricky and intriguing tropes but then sadly, fails to bring things together.
So, I waited years before picking up book #3 in the series. But then, Kate and Harry always were a fascinating couple.
October 9, 2011
The H Harry was much better than the first two book's H's so good on ED for that. I also think ED writes a fantastic tortured h. She puts her ladies in impossible circumstances with some horrible abuses and they manage, triumph and overcome all obstacles with grace and style. So why doesn't she give them an H worthy of their struggles? Harry at least has not slept with Minette, the Rake's bete noir for the H's of the first two books, (as far as we know anyhow)but he isn't really anything special either. He is arrogant, stupid and rude and IMO not good enough for Kate the h.
Kate has had a lifetime of abuse and she has managed to overcome it all to build a good life for herself and her causes, she is forced to marry Harry or be committed to an asylum by her so called family and we gradually learn more about her life and Harry. Harry believes Kate led him on when she was 16 and tried to force another man's baby on him. He went to the army instead and Kate was married off to a monster. Harry goes through too much of the book believing she betrayed him and never quite manages to redeem himself. Basically Kate's family hates her because her mother was raped and she was the result. Her mother's husband could never stand to look at her as her mother died at her birth and so he turned a blind eye to the abuse she received. Turns out dear old dad lied to Harry about Kate but Harry takes to long to see it IMO. They do have an HEA but I wish Kate had gotten someone more worthy of her.
I think that is my problem with the entire series. The writing is good, the plots are interesting but the H's consistently fall far short of the h's in character and strength. I want my romances to have equality between the partners or a good balance of personality strengths and weaknesses and ED just can't seem to write a hero that matches her heroine. If her hero's aren't total cheating degenerates, their usually boring and bland and too stupid to see the forest for the trees.
I like the writing and the plot held my interest, I liked Kate too, I just wished she would have gotten a man worthy of her.
Kate has had a lifetime of abuse and she has managed to overcome it all to build a good life for herself and her causes, she is forced to marry Harry or be committed to an asylum by her so called family and we gradually learn more about her life and Harry. Harry believes Kate led him on when she was 16 and tried to force another man's baby on him. He went to the army instead and Kate was married off to a monster. Harry goes through too much of the book believing she betrayed him and never quite manages to redeem himself. Basically Kate's family hates her because her mother was raped and she was the result. Her mother's husband could never stand to look at her as her mother died at her birth and so he turned a blind eye to the abuse she received. Turns out dear old dad lied to Harry about Kate but Harry takes to long to see it IMO. They do have an HEA but I wish Kate had gotten someone more worthy of her.
I think that is my problem with the entire series. The writing is good, the plots are interesting but the H's consistently fall far short of the h's in character and strength. I want my romances to have equality between the partners or a good balance of personality strengths and weaknesses and ED just can't seem to write a hero that matches her heroine. If her hero's aren't total cheating degenerates, their usually boring and bland and too stupid to see the forest for the trees.
I like the writing and the plot held my interest, I liked Kate too, I just wished she would have gotten a man worthy of her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2018
Huge sigh of relief over this book in the series as the hero may not be tops, but he is so far above and beyond the first two heroes in the series he looks like Lancelot. Of course, Lancelot had an adulterous affair with Guinevere, betrayed his his best friend and king, and married then ignored poor stupid grasping Elaine.
Feisty and charming Lady Kate's tragic backstory is explored along with the continuing saga of the spy story in Napoleonic England. Great writing, nice subplot although I still want to scream at how stupid Drake's Rakes are at times.
I had lots more to say that was just incredibly awesome, witty, heartfelt and... at least I hope it was, but I finished this a week ago and can't remember. ha
I liked the hero a little better than some other reviewers although he was quite gullible Lady Kate is a great character though and deserves her happiness as well as Aunt Bea. Yes, her name is Aunt Bea.
Feisty and charming Lady Kate's tragic backstory is explored along with the continuing saga of the spy story in Napoleonic England. Great writing, nice subplot although I still want to scream at how stupid Drake's Rakes are at times.
I had lots more to say that was just incredibly awesome, witty, heartfelt and... at least I hope it was, but I finished this a week ago and can't remember. ha
I liked the hero a little better than some other reviewers although he was quite gullible Lady Kate is a great character though and deserves her happiness as well as Aunt Bea. Yes, her name is Aunt Bea.
April 17, 2018
CW:
She ruined my favorite character. In the previous two books, Kate was amazing. But in this book, Eileen Dreyer turns around and is all, "Oh, Kate's awesomeness and kickassery was all just a front! She is really a frail, broken woman who hides behind a mask of awesome but deep down is in desperate need of a man to come fix her."
I would have thrown the book at a wall, but I checked it out from the library, and they tend to frown on that sort of thing.
She ruined my favorite character. In the previous two books, Kate was amazing. But in this book, Eileen Dreyer turns around and is all, "Oh, Kate's awesomeness and kickassery was all just a front! She is really a frail, broken woman who hides behind a mask of awesome but deep down is in desperate need of a man to come fix her."
I would have thrown the book at a wall, but I checked it out from the library, and they tend to frown on that sort of thing.
July 15, 2020
3.5 - 4 stars
This one is intense because of what Lady Kate (h) suffered from her father (neglect) and from her depraved deceased husband (a Duke - physical and emotional abuse). We do find out a little bit of Bea's backstory (Kate's companion and sister-in-law). The plot from book 1 regarding the Lions (Napoleon supporters & anarchists) continues and Kate plays a pivotal role, unbeknownst to her.
This is a 2nd chance for Kate and Harry. They were going to marry and travel when they met when Kate was 15 and Harry was 20. Harry was honorable and trusted Kate's father (a Duke) and told him about their relationship.
I have the 4th book. I will read it. Just a note: Harry was not a sparrow (see reviews of book 1 and 2). While he is one of Drake's Rakes, there was no Mata Hari he had to seduce to get secrets, etc.
This one is intense because of what Lady Kate (h) suffered from her father (neglect) and from her depraved deceased husband (a Duke - physical and emotional abuse). We do find out a little bit of Bea's backstory (Kate's companion and sister-in-law). The plot from book 1 regarding the Lions (Napoleon supporters & anarchists) continues and Kate plays a pivotal role, unbeknownst to her.
This is a 2nd chance for Kate and Harry. They were going to marry and travel when they met when Kate was 15 and Harry was 20. Harry was honorable and trusted Kate's father (a Duke) and told him about their relationship.
I have the 4th book. I will read it. Just a note: Harry was not a sparrow (see reviews of book 1 and 2). While he is one of Drake's Rakes, there was no Mata Hari he had to seduce to get secrets, etc.
November 23, 2016
Kate Seaton, the outrageous young Dowager Duchess of Murther, has her share of friends but more than her share of enemies, and numbered among the latter is her own family. Her father hit her if she came too close, and her brother Edwin wants to lock her up in a sanitarium. All he needs is one more scandal to convince a judge…
And there's a scandal looming—a nudie painting with Kate's face is currently gracing the wall of a well-known gentlemen's club. Kate's not too worried about it—push comes to shove she'll be able to prove she never posed for the thing (let's just say that thanks to her fortunately dead hubby, she sports a few "decorations" that don't appear on the painting).
But she has another enemy in Major Sir Harry Lidge, a member of Drake's Rakes. That's a group of self-appointed "intelligence" operatives (tho thus far I haven't seen much evidence for intelligence) that doesn't appear to be exactly sanctioned by the Home Office.
Harry and Kate have history.
And Harry isn't over it (or himself).
A dying assassin
…hints to Kate's cousin Diccan (another member of the Rakes) that Kate might have some info the Rakes want, and Diccan shares this with Harry. I had the impression Dicky was worried that Kate might be in danger and expected Harry to protect her, but Harry, having the IQ of a mushroom, instantly suspects that Kate is in cahoots with the Lions, a nefarious cabal out to assassinate Wellington and the king. Of course, asking her would be too obvious. He believed the worst of Kate before—without bothering to ask then, either. As a result he walked out on her and left her to an arranged marriage that….
….Let's just say the beatings were the good memories for Kate.
Anyhoo, Harry has Kate abducted and drags her to a run-down estate, where he locks her up in the dark, and when he goes to "question" her he threatens her sexually (all this is ten times worse when you learn the details of Kate's marriage). Adding to his crimes, he does know that his thugs left her friend, the verbally challenged Bea (who had a stroke and talks in word salad) alone, helpless and frightened in a stable yard. He knows that Kate's brother Edwin has been looking for excuses to drag Kate off to a sanitarium—and MUST know that a public abduction might be just enough of a scandal to play into Edwin's hands. So Harry knows he's hurting innocent people and probably wrecking Kate's life, but he's cool with it as long as he can crap on her for awhile.
The rest of the story involves marriage of convenience, a mystery that was astonishingly hard for the Rakes to solve, and some danger/adventure that was a lot of fun to read. Anyway, despite my discontent with certain elements, I found myself speed reading to find out what happened next. I cared. There was some fine adventure and danger (always adds a star for me), and I was totally invested in the ending. I'm going to give this 4 stars, by the skin of its teeth.
And there's a scandal looming—a nudie painting with Kate's face is currently gracing the wall of a well-known gentlemen's club. Kate's not too worried about it—push comes to shove she'll be able to prove she never posed for the thing (let's just say that thanks to her fortunately dead hubby, she sports a few "decorations" that don't appear on the painting).
But she has another enemy in Major Sir Harry Lidge, a member of Drake's Rakes. That's a group of self-appointed "intelligence" operatives (tho thus far I haven't seen much evidence for intelligence) that doesn't appear to be exactly sanctioned by the Home Office.
Harry and Kate have history.
And Harry isn't over it (or himself).
A dying assassin
…hints to Kate's cousin Diccan (another member of the Rakes) that Kate might have some info the Rakes want, and Diccan shares this with Harry. I had the impression Dicky was worried that Kate might be in danger and expected Harry to protect her, but Harry, having the IQ of a mushroom, instantly suspects that Kate is in cahoots with the Lions, a nefarious cabal out to assassinate Wellington and the king. Of course, asking her would be too obvious. He believed the worst of Kate before—without bothering to ask then, either. As a result he walked out on her and left her to an arranged marriage that….
….Let's just say the beatings were the good memories for Kate.
Anyhoo, Harry has Kate abducted and drags her to a run-down estate, where he locks her up in the dark, and when he goes to "question" her he threatens her sexually (all this is ten times worse when you learn the details of Kate's marriage). Adding to his crimes, he does know that his thugs left her friend, the verbally challenged Bea (who had a stroke and talks in word salad) alone, helpless and frightened in a stable yard. He knows that Kate's brother Edwin has been looking for excuses to drag Kate off to a sanitarium—and MUST know that a public abduction might be just enough of a scandal to play into Edwin's hands. So Harry knows he's hurting innocent people and probably wrecking Kate's life, but he's cool with it as long as he can crap on her for awhile.
The rest of the story involves marriage of convenience, a mystery that was astonishingly hard for the Rakes to solve, and some danger/adventure that was a lot of fun to read. Anyway, despite my discontent with certain elements, I found myself speed reading to find out what happened next. I cared. There was some fine adventure and danger (always adds a star for me), and I was totally invested in the ending. I'm going to give this 4 stars, by the skin of its teeth.
November 18, 2011
So looking forward to this one. After their brief interactions in Dreyer's first book in the series "Barely a Lady" I wanted immediately to read Harry and Kate's story.
September 2011, here I come!
Review
Eileen Dreyer knows how to break my heart and but it back together. Love this series to bits.
Dreyer has officially become an auto-buy author for me. Her characters are always real and emotional and their struggles worth the read. More than anything I've come to realize that Dreyer's stories are so much more than romance. At the heart of it all, they're about redemption.
Redemption from the mistakes of the past and acceptance of a bright future. Harry and Kate are the epitome of this theme. Both very scarred characters, although I would have to say that Kate has lived far worse than Harry, they find solace in each other and lean on one another as they try to reconcile the mistakes they each made in the past and hope to find a future with one another.
I loved the way that Dreyer stayed true to her characters as they were presented in the previous books - even if we only saw glimpses of them. Kate was first presented as a strong, carefree woman who liked to challenge society and shock her family. She was outspoken, true to herself and unapologetic. All this was true of her in Always a Temptress but beneath her society personality lurked a tender heart and broken soul. This may sound cliche, but read the book and you'll understand. My heart broke, seriously I had tears at one point when we slowly come to learn, like Harry, what Kate has suffered over the years. Her inner sorrow - shielded by her outer strength - is only compounded by the sad fact that because of lies and deceit, Harry and Kate were kept away from each other for 10 years! It was such a sad part of the book when you find out what happened in their shared past and why Kate and Harry hate each other now.
I though Dreyer did an excellent job of making the reconciliation between these two believable and I really liked that Harry and Kate started to heal their past wounds through the comfort of the other. Sometimes, no matter how much you think you hate someone, or dislike, no matter how much they've hurt you in the past, it's that very person, tied to you through your shared youth that has the power to help you through the pain of your present. This is the idea that drove this book. Harry and Kate knew each other as children and this is what allows them to build a future with one another, the trust and love that had always been there never died, it was merely buried under hurt and disappointment.
Eileen Dreyer has such a knack for pulling readers into her books. The characters are always worth rooting for and I always desperately want to see them reach their happy ending. Harry and Kate were no exception. Their story is full of angst and heart ache. But you can always count on Dreyer to make the right decisions for her characters in order for them to be happy.
I am so glad she has decided to extend her series. I can see future heroes emerging and will read their stories as long as Dreyer writes them.
The only minor disappointment I had - which in no way ruins my enjoyment of the book - is that I would have liked to see more of Harry and Kate in the past. I wanted to know how they reacted to one another and how they came to feel about one another while they were young. I love flashbacks in a story about two people being reunited after years apart and that was the only thing I can say was missing. The ending was maybe just a little bit too rushed, the last 40 pages or so...and then got really sugary. But I really didn't mind this. I was happy to see Harry and Kate finally able to be sugary sweet with one another!
I honestly can't say which book out of the three in the series is my favourite...I loved Diccan and Grace's story very much, but they've all been so good. I think I'd have to re-read each one to really know.
If you love the series, love Dreyer or just love an angsty romance, pick up this series. It'll be well worth your time. Dreyer is a great writer.
September 2011, here I come!
Review
Eileen Dreyer knows how to break my heart and but it back together. Love this series to bits.
Dreyer has officially become an auto-buy author for me. Her characters are always real and emotional and their struggles worth the read. More than anything I've come to realize that Dreyer's stories are so much more than romance. At the heart of it all, they're about redemption.
Redemption from the mistakes of the past and acceptance of a bright future. Harry and Kate are the epitome of this theme. Both very scarred characters, although I would have to say that Kate has lived far worse than Harry, they find solace in each other and lean on one another as they try to reconcile the mistakes they each made in the past and hope to find a future with one another.
I loved the way that Dreyer stayed true to her characters as they were presented in the previous books - even if we only saw glimpses of them. Kate was first presented as a strong, carefree woman who liked to challenge society and shock her family. She was outspoken, true to herself and unapologetic. All this was true of her in Always a Temptress but beneath her society personality lurked a tender heart and broken soul. This may sound cliche, but read the book and you'll understand. My heart broke, seriously I had tears at one point when we slowly come to learn, like Harry, what Kate has suffered over the years. Her inner sorrow - shielded by her outer strength - is only compounded by the sad fact that because of lies and deceit, Harry and Kate were kept away from each other for 10 years! It was such a sad part of the book when you find out what happened in their shared past and why Kate and Harry hate each other now.
I though Dreyer did an excellent job of making the reconciliation between these two believable and I really liked that Harry and Kate started to heal their past wounds through the comfort of the other. Sometimes, no matter how much you think you hate someone, or dislike, no matter how much they've hurt you in the past, it's that very person, tied to you through your shared youth that has the power to help you through the pain of your present. This is the idea that drove this book. Harry and Kate knew each other as children and this is what allows them to build a future with one another, the trust and love that had always been there never died, it was merely buried under hurt and disappointment.
Eileen Dreyer has such a knack for pulling readers into her books. The characters are always worth rooting for and I always desperately want to see them reach their happy ending. Harry and Kate were no exception. Their story is full of angst and heart ache. But you can always count on Dreyer to make the right decisions for her characters in order for them to be happy.
I am so glad she has decided to extend her series. I can see future heroes emerging and will read their stories as long as Dreyer writes them.
The only minor disappointment I had - which in no way ruins my enjoyment of the book - is that I would have liked to see more of Harry and Kate in the past. I wanted to know how they reacted to one another and how they came to feel about one another while they were young. I love flashbacks in a story about two people being reunited after years apart and that was the only thing I can say was missing. The ending was maybe just a little bit too rushed, the last 40 pages or so...and then got really sugary. But I really didn't mind this. I was happy to see Harry and Kate finally able to be sugary sweet with one another!
I honestly can't say which book out of the three in the series is my favourite...I loved Diccan and Grace's story very much, but they've all been so good. I think I'd have to re-read each one to really know.
If you love the series, love Dreyer or just love an angsty romance, pick up this series. It'll be well worth your time. Dreyer is a great writer.
May 18, 2012
Wow! This book is going directly to my re-read/keepers shelf! I realize that there will probably be more books in this series, at least I HOPE so. There are still a few loose ends and I am quite sure Drake and hopefully Ian will have their own stories. I just hope we will still see all the other characters, especially Bea and the assortment of characters in Kate's employ.
I am not going to go into what the story was about as there are so many good reviews here that I couldn't do them justice. I will say that the one thing that sets these books apart from others in the genre, at least to me, these stories focus on the heroines. That is they deeply focus on them and while you learn much about the heroes, they are definitely the secondary characters. I just can not say enough how in depth and incredible these heroines are written. I feel like I have three new best friends.
I am not going to go into what the story was about as there are so many good reviews here that I couldn't do them justice. I will say that the one thing that sets these books apart from others in the genre, at least to me, these stories focus on the heroines. That is they deeply focus on them and while you learn much about the heroes, they are definitely the secondary characters. I just can not say enough how in depth and incredible these heroines are written. I feel like I have three new best friends.
July 23, 2023
Like the first two novels of this series, this one was compelling with complex characters, by turns heartbreaking and wonderfully funny and quirky. We learn at last the full backstory for the cutting antipathy between Kate Seaton, Dowager Duchess of Mourne and Major Harry Lidge, Drake’s Rake. It is a powerful story with the continuing themes of the cruelties we humans are capable of unleashing on each other, both intentional and not, as well as our potential for courage, honor and love. The mutual change from enmity to care and understanding is not rushed and rendered with vulnerability and understanding by Dreyer. As far as the novel’s central story between Kate and Harry, there is barely a false note. The supporting characters of the households are wonderful. The problem lies with Drake’s Rakes.
Like many Romance adventure series, each novel of this one is a chapter of an overall story about a group of ultra-conservative British aristocrats and their hench-people, who planned to use the Napoleonic War and its aftermath to rid themselves of George III and his heir Prinny to put Princess Charlotte on the throne as their puppet. Not for the first time but by far the most extreme example, Drake’s Rakes spy group proves by turns clueless, callous and inept, and the surprise villain while not entirely a surprise given various hints, was difficult to buy. Not because they had not displayed ample venom and capacity for cruelty, but because of their repeated volatility. Neither did they seem to have much imagination or intelligence in their unguarded fury. Also, unsatisfying is the frequent Regency trope that peerage characters never pay publicly so their innocent families are protected from ruinous scandal. Even a hundred years later, Lord Peter Wimsey acts with a similar sensibility. The problem is as the number of high-ranking figures involved in this treason becomes more evident and their ruthlessness in ruining or killing anyone and everyone in their lunge for power becomes more cruel and indiscriminate, the more repugnant it becomes that they will not reap the consequences of their actions.
Like many Romance adventure series, each novel of this one is a chapter of an overall story about a group of ultra-conservative British aristocrats and their hench-people, who planned to use the Napoleonic War and its aftermath to rid themselves of George III and his heir Prinny to put Princess Charlotte on the throne as their puppet. Not for the first time but by far the most extreme example, Drake’s Rakes spy group proves by turns clueless, callous and inept, and the surprise villain while not entirely a surprise given various hints, was difficult to buy. Not because they had not displayed ample venom and capacity for cruelty, but because of their repeated volatility. Neither did they seem to have much imagination or intelligence in their unguarded fury. Also, unsatisfying is the frequent Regency trope that peerage characters never pay publicly so their innocent families are protected from ruinous scandal. Even a hundred years later, Lord Peter Wimsey acts with a similar sensibility. The problem is as the number of high-ranking figures involved in this treason becomes more evident and their ruthlessness in ruining or killing anyone and everyone in their lunge for power becomes more cruel and indiscriminate, the more repugnant it becomes that they will not reap the consequences of their actions.
May 12, 2012
This book only got these two stars because Lady Kate is pretty damn tough and likable. Sir Harry is a sort-of-spy and a HUGE alphole who absolutely drove me insane from the start of the book. He broods with poorly suppressed lust and hate for Lady Kate at the beginning, but as soon as a total enemy says "the whore" has a poetry line (a sort of code England needs), he and even her closest ally decide it's totally her because several people call her a slut. TOTALLY REASONABLE. On this premise, Harry has her kidnapped and tossed into a carraige, then taken to be locked up. When she (here she is awesome) promptly rips apart the inside of the carriage looking for something to use as a weapon, he acts like she's a totally destructive, childish whore. The then spends the time he has her locked up sexually assaulting her and treating her like crap, then tearing himself away when she responds by kneeing him in the groin etc. (again, she's pretty tough). After he's away, he kicks himself for being a dick but DOESN'T STOP, and the narration describes his rapey ways as being a result of being so very attracted to her while he still feels she's a whore and a spy. Poor dude can't help it! She, of course, while being awesome, also feels attracted to him while he is treating her like dirt. I stopped reading at this point.
December 12, 2020
Forgot to add this in GoodReads after I finished it which is an indication of how memorable it was for me.
Kate and Harry's story is teased in Never A Gentleman with their underlying tension and in Always A Temptress, we get their love story.
Annnd it ok.
Eileen Dreyer really likes to put her heroine through the wringer and that's what kept me going because it was the only part of the story that kept me guessing and had emotional weight behind it. Kate's past is dark and it has an impact on who she is and how she acts. Kate is the bad girl whose reputation is more salacious than the reality. Harry is a proper dude.
I generally like proper Darcy and salacious tart pairings but because Kate has such a dark past, it's not really fun double entendres and games here. Harry irritated me for slut-shaming her while also making pretty astute observations about Kate that suggest she is not as strong or confident as she shows herself to be. You'd think if he was smart enough to surmise her interior feelings simply by how she positions herself around mirrors he'd be a little less thick in the head about her confidence act! There was a big misunderstanding in the past between Kate and Harry and I wasn't blown over by it and it also didn't impact the rest of the story emotionally, for me.
Kate and Harry's story is teased in Never A Gentleman with their underlying tension and in Always A Temptress, we get their love story.
Annnd it ok.
Eileen Dreyer really likes to put her heroine through the wringer and that's what kept me going because it was the only part of the story that kept me guessing and had emotional weight behind it. Kate's past is dark and it has an impact on who she is and how she acts. Kate is the bad girl whose reputation is more salacious than the reality. Harry is a proper dude.
I generally like proper Darcy and salacious tart pairings but because Kate has such a dark past, it's not really fun double entendres and games here. Harry irritated me for slut-shaming her while also making pretty astute observations about Kate that suggest she is not as strong or confident as she shows herself to be. You'd think if he was smart enough to surmise her interior feelings simply by how she positions herself around mirrors he'd be a little less thick in the head about her confidence act! There was a big misunderstanding in the past between Kate and Harry and I wasn't blown over by it and it also didn't impact the rest of the story emotionally, for me.
October 4, 2011
This review is up on my blog at www.bookworm2bookworm.wordpress.comIn 2010 Eileen Dreyer introduced us to her Drake’s Rakes and to three of them, she gave a Grace for their very own.
In ‘Barely a Lady’, Jack found his Grace, Olivia Grace that is and in ‘Never a Gentleman’, Diccan couldn’t outrun his Grace, Grace Fairchild. And then Harry confronts Her Grace, the Dowager Duchess of Murther in ’Always a Temptress’ and their story, as the earlier two, had me spellbound and on the edge of my seat.
How can I do this novel justice AND keep the ‘spoilers’ out?! I want to shout it out loud and let you know all the why’s and what for’s…but I’ll contain my enthusiasm, and tell you why I loved Kate and Harry’s love story.
We met this flamboyant woman in the first book, and she was someone you couldn’t help but like from the start. She was a daughter, sister and a wife of a Duke; fearless, hated, envied and admired. She surrounded herself with friends from all walks of life; aristocrats, soldiers and a motley crew of misfits in her employ made up an eclectic ‘bouquet’ of friends that kept the darkness away and Kate’s life content.
Until the day that greed and secrets, kept by her and from her, shattered, battered and forced her to face all her fears she carefully and methodically hid, in the dark corners of her soul.
Major Sir Harry Lidge we met in the previous book and we knew from his interactions with Kate that the past they shared would one day come to haunt both, and once it did, both would have ‘some splainin’ to do’.
Harry’s life ten years ago was filled with dreams of travel and love for a girl of a Duke, and as a second son of a squire, that was a dream a bit too high, even for him. That however didn’t stop him and the love he felt for his ‘Katie’ came crashing down all around him, like the famous buildings he dreamed one day of building. Being brought up by loving parents, in a home that buzzed with activity and happiness, Harry’s decision to accept the Duke’s offer of a commission was the right thing to do. He knew that his dreams, if ever he survived the war, might be rebuilt and hopes for that dream kept him alive; kept him moving even when the nightmares of the battles fought tried to keep him down.
Upon finishing this novel, I truly couldn’t decide who was more the hero of this piece, Kate or Harry. Both had major hurdles to overcome, but the strength that Kate displayed was ferocious!
The story opens with Kate’s abduction for her protection and continues with her brother’s attempts to commit her to an asylum for her outrageous behavior. In the middle of it all, Drake’s Rakes are still in pursuit of the cursed verse and assassin’s attempts at killing our hero and heroine almost succeed. To some, this might be too much happening all at once, but trust me, none is, and all is important to the story that is fast paced, and every character we meet has depth, but none so like our Kate and Harry. Their road back to each other despite of all the hardships they lived through was destined to end with love and passion winning the day!
‘Always a Temptress’ had me smile, cry and sigh, but it never, EVER had me bored! Ms. Dreyer, I hear that you’ll be writing more of Drake’s Rakes, so BRING THEM ON! I refuse to think that Ian is dead!
Melanie
In ‘Barely a Lady’, Jack found his Grace, Olivia Grace that is and in ‘Never a Gentleman’, Diccan couldn’t outrun his Grace, Grace Fairchild. And then Harry confronts Her Grace, the Dowager Duchess of Murther in ’Always a Temptress’ and their story, as the earlier two, had me spellbound and on the edge of my seat.
How can I do this novel justice AND keep the ‘spoilers’ out?! I want to shout it out loud and let you know all the why’s and what for’s…but I’ll contain my enthusiasm, and tell you why I loved Kate and Harry’s love story.
We met this flamboyant woman in the first book, and she was someone you couldn’t help but like from the start. She was a daughter, sister and a wife of a Duke; fearless, hated, envied and admired. She surrounded herself with friends from all walks of life; aristocrats, soldiers and a motley crew of misfits in her employ made up an eclectic ‘bouquet’ of friends that kept the darkness away and Kate’s life content.
Until the day that greed and secrets, kept by her and from her, shattered, battered and forced her to face all her fears she carefully and methodically hid, in the dark corners of her soul.
Major Sir Harry Lidge we met in the previous book and we knew from his interactions with Kate that the past they shared would one day come to haunt both, and once it did, both would have ‘some splainin’ to do’.
Harry’s life ten years ago was filled with dreams of travel and love for a girl of a Duke, and as a second son of a squire, that was a dream a bit too high, even for him. That however didn’t stop him and the love he felt for his ‘Katie’ came crashing down all around him, like the famous buildings he dreamed one day of building. Being brought up by loving parents, in a home that buzzed with activity and happiness, Harry’s decision to accept the Duke’s offer of a commission was the right thing to do. He knew that his dreams, if ever he survived the war, might be rebuilt and hopes for that dream kept him alive; kept him moving even when the nightmares of the battles fought tried to keep him down.
Upon finishing this novel, I truly couldn’t decide who was more the hero of this piece, Kate or Harry. Both had major hurdles to overcome, but the strength that Kate displayed was ferocious!
The story opens with Kate’s abduction for her protection and continues with her brother’s attempts to commit her to an asylum for her outrageous behavior. In the middle of it all, Drake’s Rakes are still in pursuit of the cursed verse and assassin’s attempts at killing our hero and heroine almost succeed. To some, this might be too much happening all at once, but trust me, none is, and all is important to the story that is fast paced, and every character we meet has depth, but none so like our Kate and Harry. Their road back to each other despite of all the hardships they lived through was destined to end with love and passion winning the day!
‘Always a Temptress’ had me smile, cry and sigh, but it never, EVER had me bored! Ms. Dreyer, I hear that you’ll be writing more of Drake’s Rakes, so BRING THEM ON! I refuse to think that Ian is dead!
Melanie
April 21, 2014
Review from Backchatting Books
This court is now in session...
Henry Lidge hears that a foreign agent talked about 'the whore' before he died and automatically assumes it must be Lady Kate. Without further ado he kidnaps her and decides he's going to intimidate her into revealing a poem the baddies want to get their paws on. His technique involves deprivation of liberty, starvation and sexual harassment.
Case for the Prosecution
Henry comes across as a fairly brutish and vindictive thug even though Dreyer threw in nightmares as a way of humanising him. I honestly have no idea why Kate was remotely attracted to him but perhaps it is because she remembered the decent young man he used to be rather than what he became. If he had done the slightest bit of investigation before kidnapping Kate or taken slightly less joy in her suffering, I probably would have liked him better.
I have a bit of a problem with the way Kate was able to overcome her problems with intimacy (stemming from her late husband's abuse) by submitting to Henry's attentions. He seemed way too aggressive to help her.
The espionage plot continues to limp along and the snippets we get from our psychotic baddie don't really add to the story as a whole. I think that you really need to read the books in order to understand how the espionage is progressing as the events in the books dovetail quite neatly.
Case for the Defence
Lade Kate might be a lady but she is as tough as bootstraps. Throughout the novel she is forced to defend herself from a variety of men who are eager to gain control of her. Many women would be completely cowed by this but Kate decides to live her life in spite of them. She dons a fairly frivolous outer persona like a cloak and bit by bit we get to see snatches of the real woman.
All the women in this series are stronger than their male counterparts. I really liked Bea, Kate's sidekick, who suffered a serious injury some years ago. She tends to make very random statements but always manages to get to the heart of the issue. Bea's loyalty to Kate and slightly impish ways was just the tonic the book needed.
The Verdict
I struggled a little bit with this one because of dichotomy between the leads. Kate was an interesting and multi-faceted lead but Henry operated at a much lower 'me no like', 'me want', 'me take' and 'me sorry' level. I realise that Dreyer needed some way of throwing the two together for a length of time but she made it really hard to like Henry on any level.
This court is now in session...
Henry Lidge hears that a foreign agent talked about 'the whore' before he died and automatically assumes it must be Lady Kate. Without further ado he kidnaps her and decides he's going to intimidate her into revealing a poem the baddies want to get their paws on. His technique involves deprivation of liberty, starvation and sexual harassment.
Case for the Prosecution
Henry comes across as a fairly brutish and vindictive thug even though Dreyer threw in nightmares as a way of humanising him. I honestly have no idea why Kate was remotely attracted to him but perhaps it is because she remembered the decent young man he used to be rather than what he became. If he had done the slightest bit of investigation before kidnapping Kate or taken slightly less joy in her suffering, I probably would have liked him better.
I have a bit of a problem with the way Kate was able to overcome her problems with intimacy (stemming from her late husband's abuse) by submitting to Henry's attentions. He seemed way too aggressive to help her.
The espionage plot continues to limp along and the snippets we get from our psychotic baddie don't really add to the story as a whole. I think that you really need to read the books in order to understand how the espionage is progressing as the events in the books dovetail quite neatly.
Case for the Defence
Lade Kate might be a lady but she is as tough as bootstraps. Throughout the novel she is forced to defend herself from a variety of men who are eager to gain control of her. Many women would be completely cowed by this but Kate decides to live her life in spite of them. She dons a fairly frivolous outer persona like a cloak and bit by bit we get to see snatches of the real woman.
All the women in this series are stronger than their male counterparts. I really liked Bea, Kate's sidekick, who suffered a serious injury some years ago. She tends to make very random statements but always manages to get to the heart of the issue. Bea's loyalty to Kate and slightly impish ways was just the tonic the book needed.
The Verdict
I struggled a little bit with this one because of dichotomy between the leads. Kate was an interesting and multi-faceted lead but Henry operated at a much lower 'me no like', 'me want', 'me take' and 'me sorry' level. I realise that Dreyer needed some way of throwing the two together for a length of time but she made it really hard to like Henry on any level.
October 7, 2011
Lady Kate Seaton has put on a happy face for years. She is the daughter of a duke, the sister of a duke and the wife of a late duke which has made her bold, admired and envied by all...all that is except her brother and his wife, who are trying to commit her into an asylum to gain control of a home Kate owns. When her brothers latest attempt happens in the presence of Major Sir Harry Lidge, Harry steps in and says they are married so Kates brother has no control of her anymore. Harry is shocked by what he says as he and Kate have a past in which they were happily in love and Harry was lead to believe that Kate tricked him and it sent Harry into the army for ten years. Upon his return, he learns that Kate holds a vital clue needed for the Drakes Rakes and he knows he can not let her go into an asylum, hence the announcement of marriage. Even though neither one of them want to marry, especially to each other, they agree that it must happen to protect Kate and Harry temporarily puts his dreams of travel on hold to help solve the mystery of who is after Kate, if Kate has this mysterious verse and if he can ever trust Kate again.
There is so much depth and emotion in this story that it will just keep you so engrossed you won't even notice the time! Kate. Wow, her secrets and her past are just truly heartbreaking and the more we learn, the more you feel for Kate. And Harry. Wow again. His understanding and caring for Kate, whom he thinks betrayed him, is just so wonderful. It is really hard to say much without spoiling anything but you will fall in love with these two as a couple! They are just perfect for each other. They need each other to be complete and you can just feel that. Truly, they need each other and the road to that is filled with bumps but when they find each other finally, you will be sighing with happiness! And yes, I did sort of guess some of the reason as to why Kate was treated the was she was, I was still a bit surprised in the end so that is always a plus for me. Also, the culprit behind Kates attacks was not quite who I thought either. Overall, a truly heartbreaking, sigh-worthy, happy 5 stars
There is so much depth and emotion in this story that it will just keep you so engrossed you won't even notice the time! Kate. Wow, her secrets and her past are just truly heartbreaking and the more we learn, the more you feel for Kate. And Harry. Wow again. His understanding and caring for Kate, whom he thinks betrayed him, is just so wonderful. It is really hard to say much without spoiling anything but you will fall in love with these two as a couple! They are just perfect for each other. They need each other to be complete and you can just feel that. Truly, they need each other and the road to that is filled with bumps but when they find each other finally, you will be sighing with happiness! And yes, I did sort of guess some of the reason as to why Kate was treated the was she was, I was still a bit surprised in the end so that is always a plus for me. Also, the culprit behind Kates attacks was not quite who I thought either. Overall, a truly heartbreaking, sigh-worthy, happy 5 stars
July 29, 2011
Eileen Dreyer’s writing is exquisitely visceral. With a pitch-perfect historical voice, gloriously human characters, and dialogue so smart it sizzles, Dreyer leads the reader on a emotional adventure that finishes with a satisfying happy ending. Always a Temptress made me laugh, cry, and finally sigh with happiness when I came to the very last page. Most definitely a keeper!
April 29, 2019
Thoughts
Hot and Steamy
Bad Family
Jealousy
Strong friendships
Loyalty
Evil Deeds
10 years of lies and deception
Should’ve read sooner
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher.
Hot and Steamy
Bad Family
Jealousy
Strong friendships
Loyalty
Evil Deeds
10 years of lies and deception
Should’ve read sooner
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher.
October 14, 2011
I've thoroughly enjoyed Eileen Dreyer's earlier novels with the Drake's Rakes (Barely a Lady and Never a Gentleman). In Always a Temptress, Dreyer tells us the story behind the beautiful, double Duchess Kate Seaton. Kate's the daughter of a duke and the widow of a duke. She's beautiful, high spirited, independent, outspoken, always on the edge of danger.
Harry'd met her when she was fifteen. She'd been his closest friend and he'd fallen for her deeply. His life had been turned upside down when he learned of her betrayal -- he escaped to the army and the ten years of fighting had taught him a great deal, made him careful. Seeing Kate now she stood out "her attire was just shy of being too bright, too bold, too revealing" and it was generally agreed that her behavior bordered on scandalous. More lovers than anyone could count and a painting of her naked body hung in one of London's private clubs. A woman who thinks only of herself and while Harry hadn't expected her to betray her country, he can believe it of her.
Harry's assigned the distasteful task of kidnapping and interrogating Kate and in the process discovers that she's not as tough as she seemed. He uncovers proof in Kate's favor and before he begins to wonder how much of what he's believed about her is true, he finds himself rescuing her. The rescue binds Kate and Harry together. Although much has happened in their ten years apart, they both discover the person that they'd left behind.
Always a Temptress is a fun escape. Double duchess Kate is a standout character -- brilliant, beautiful and brave. Sir Harry Lidge is admirable, loyal and tenacious. Dreyer gives us two likable characters who deserve to be together and enough of the intrigues, plot twists and bad luck that we savor the ups and downs of their romance. If you enjoy historical romance, I highly recommend Always a Temptress.
ISBN-10: 0446542059 - Paperback $7.99
Publisher: Forever (October 1, 2011), 432 pages.
Review copy provided by the publisher.
Harry'd met her when she was fifteen. She'd been his closest friend and he'd fallen for her deeply. His life had been turned upside down when he learned of her betrayal -- he escaped to the army and the ten years of fighting had taught him a great deal, made him careful. Seeing Kate now she stood out "her attire was just shy of being too bright, too bold, too revealing" and it was generally agreed that her behavior bordered on scandalous. More lovers than anyone could count and a painting of her naked body hung in one of London's private clubs. A woman who thinks only of herself and while Harry hadn't expected her to betray her country, he can believe it of her.
Harry's assigned the distasteful task of kidnapping and interrogating Kate and in the process discovers that she's not as tough as she seemed. He uncovers proof in Kate's favor and before he begins to wonder how much of what he's believed about her is true, he finds himself rescuing her. The rescue binds Kate and Harry together. Although much has happened in their ten years apart, they both discover the person that they'd left behind.
Always a Temptress is a fun escape. Double duchess Kate is a standout character -- brilliant, beautiful and brave. Sir Harry Lidge is admirable, loyal and tenacious. Dreyer gives us two likable characters who deserve to be together and enough of the intrigues, plot twists and bad luck that we savor the ups and downs of their romance. If you enjoy historical romance, I highly recommend Always a Temptress.
ISBN-10: 0446542059 - Paperback $7.99
Publisher: Forever (October 1, 2011), 432 pages.
Review copy provided by the publisher.
October 7, 2015
Wish I would have picked this gem up a while back. Not that I need another series to read. Just lately I have been reading mediocre romances. But this book certainly busted that streak. I loved Kate and knew her story was going to be heartbreaking and boy was it! I loved hard-headed Harry as well. My only niggle was the ending wasn't long enough. Yes we got an EPI, but I wanted to see Kate and Harry in the country trying with their various cast of household characters. Also what happened to the woman that took the lady's place in the asylum? Did I miss where she went? Also are we going to get Drake's story, is this series going to continue? I must get all of the books now. I wished I would have read the first book in the series, not because I couldn't follow what was going on, but I did feel like I had coming in during the 2nd act of a play and it took me awhile to come up to speed.
October 15, 2011
My Synopsis:
When Kate Seaton was fifteen she fell in love with Harry Lidge and him with her. Harry's father was the squire and a good friend to Kate's father the Duke. Harry had spent lots of time with the Duke and Duchess and worshiped the Duke. The Duke had taken care of his family after his father had passed away. He didn't meet Kate until later and instantly they developed a friendship that turn into something special. Harry thought he would have a chance with the Duke's daughter until all his illusions of ever after were dashed when the Duke informed him of some things about Kate that shattered all his hopes. The Duke seeing the pain Harry was going through paid for his commission to join the army. Harry took the word of the Duke since he figured the Duke would never lie to him. He had only known Kate for 2 mos and the Duke longer. After ten years serving his country in life threatening situation Harry is ready to sell his commission and travel and see the world without battle. His plan is put on hold when he is asked by Diccan his friend and fellow Drake's Rake to look after Kate. When the notorious Surgeon dies he implicate that Kate has knowledge of where the "Verse" is. The "Verse" is an intricate part of the devious traitorous plans of "Lions". The "Lions" is a group who is working to overthrow the current Government.
Kate and Harry can't be around one another without verbally sparring. After Harry broke her heart and left her years ago Kate was married off and barely survived her horrific marriage. After her husband died she rebuilt her life fortifying and snubbing society with her outrageous antics. She has surrounded herself with the riff-raffs of society and built a sanctuary for herself in her home. On her way home after her good friends wedding Kate is kidnapped. Thinking that her own brother had her kidnapped she is surprised to find out that it's Harry instead. Kate realizes that Harry intends to keep her until he gets the information that he thinks Kate has about the "Lions". Kate is furious that he would even believe she is part of the group.
Things quickly spiral out of control for both of them. Harry is still attracted to her and her to him but so much hurt and misunderstanding stand in their way. Harry realizes Kate is a big contradiction. Nothing like how society or he has painted her. When her life is in danger will Harry risk his dreams and heart again to protect her.
My Thoughts:
Well Mrs. Deyer let me just say that I'm so glad that I read this book. After my love/hate emotions for Never a Gentleman I wasn't sure how I would feel about this book. I was hesitant to pick it up but even with my love/hate of Never a Gentleman I knew that you are an amazing storyteller and had to give this book a chance. Always a Temptress is the third book in the Drake's Rake's series. We met both the hero and heroine of this book in the previous two books and their story had been building. Readers know that these two have no love for one another and that there is some history. We find out in this book what caused all the hostility that each feel for the other. This book was packed full of heartache, hope, intrigue, sweetness and great supporting cast of secondary characters.
In this book Kate's life is in danger from her family and the "Lions" group. Harry's objections and loathing for Kate is put to rest in this book. When he discovers the truth he is left devastated. The emotions conveyed in Dreyers writing of all Harry is feeling breaks your heart. Kate is also left floundering since her reason to be angry at Harry is dashed with his confession. These two deserve so much happiness. The trials and heartbreak they've both gone through is immense. Harry is tired and ready to start the next part in his life. He's lived this whole time thinking that Kate wasn't the girl he fell for and it was lies. When he finds out all the pain she has suffered he goes about making amends. His patience, understanding and tenderness awaken passion in Kate. I absolutely adore Harry. When the book first starts I wasn't too sure about him. His dislike of Kate blinded him and he treated her pretty shabby at the beginning. But once he realizes his error boy did he try. Some of my favorite and very poignant scenes are his lessons in kissing Kate. Harry's kisses are erotic and sweet...talk about swoon moment, ladies! Harry is gallant, strong, a beautiful soul, resourceful and just damn sexy as hell.
As for Kate...wow talk about a strong heroine. From her sarcastic retorts to her moments of vulnerability I was drawn to her character. She is loyal to those she loves and puts them above all things. I couldn't imagine the nightmare of marriage she suffered. My heart broke for her and I shed a bit of tears when I the reader and Harry realized the full magnitude of her suffering. She hides her pain behind her outlandish antics and smart mouth.
Scenes between the two were always explosive whether in passion or hate. The best scenes were Harry's lessons in kisses. One of my favorite quotes that I think summarize very well what a long road these two have to go before they can trust and possibly love again is below....
"His body all but seized in excitement. His own heart was matching and outdistancing hers. For God's sake, it was just a kiss. He couldn't remember when last he'd spent so much time simply exploring a mouth. But this mouth was special. Breaching these defenses was a triumph."
Sigh...it says so much. The connection and awareness for each other jumps off the pages and just smacks you. I held my breathe when Kate held hers, I cried along with Harry when he cried and laughed when they found a little happiness. The secondary characters which included the previous Drake's Rake motley crew, Kate's household staff and Bea added to the storyline. They provided nice mix to the sadness and gave the book some of the laughing moments. Kate's brother the current Duke, his wife and the "Lions" added the intrigue to the book with they're sinister agendas. I really want to know more about Drake himself, Chuffy and Ian. I really hope we will get a story for Ian...the giant Scotsman.
All and all I enjoyed this book and completely fell in love with the leading couple. I cried, I laughed, and I rooted and sat on the edge rooting Harry on when he was desperate towards the end of the book. Always a Temptress was a 180 degree change from Never Love a Gentleman. I highly recommend this book for fans of stories where the leading couple go from love to hate, sinister plot, great supporting cast and a satisfying ending that will leave you sighing and smiling. Be sure to have tissue handy.
When Kate Seaton was fifteen she fell in love with Harry Lidge and him with her. Harry's father was the squire and a good friend to Kate's father the Duke. Harry had spent lots of time with the Duke and Duchess and worshiped the Duke. The Duke had taken care of his family after his father had passed away. He didn't meet Kate until later and instantly they developed a friendship that turn into something special. Harry thought he would have a chance with the Duke's daughter until all his illusions of ever after were dashed when the Duke informed him of some things about Kate that shattered all his hopes. The Duke seeing the pain Harry was going through paid for his commission to join the army. Harry took the word of the Duke since he figured the Duke would never lie to him. He had only known Kate for 2 mos and the Duke longer. After ten years serving his country in life threatening situation Harry is ready to sell his commission and travel and see the world without battle. His plan is put on hold when he is asked by Diccan his friend and fellow Drake's Rake to look after Kate. When the notorious Surgeon dies he implicate that Kate has knowledge of where the "Verse" is. The "Verse" is an intricate part of the devious traitorous plans of "Lions". The "Lions" is a group who is working to overthrow the current Government.
Kate and Harry can't be around one another without verbally sparring. After Harry broke her heart and left her years ago Kate was married off and barely survived her horrific marriage. After her husband died she rebuilt her life fortifying and snubbing society with her outrageous antics. She has surrounded herself with the riff-raffs of society and built a sanctuary for herself in her home. On her way home after her good friends wedding Kate is kidnapped. Thinking that her own brother had her kidnapped she is surprised to find out that it's Harry instead. Kate realizes that Harry intends to keep her until he gets the information that he thinks Kate has about the "Lions". Kate is furious that he would even believe she is part of the group.
Things quickly spiral out of control for both of them. Harry is still attracted to her and her to him but so much hurt and misunderstanding stand in their way. Harry realizes Kate is a big contradiction. Nothing like how society or he has painted her. When her life is in danger will Harry risk his dreams and heart again to protect her.
My Thoughts:
Well Mrs. Deyer let me just say that I'm so glad that I read this book. After my love/hate emotions for Never a Gentleman I wasn't sure how I would feel about this book. I was hesitant to pick it up but even with my love/hate of Never a Gentleman I knew that you are an amazing storyteller and had to give this book a chance. Always a Temptress is the third book in the Drake's Rake's series. We met both the hero and heroine of this book in the previous two books and their story had been building. Readers know that these two have no love for one another and that there is some history. We find out in this book what caused all the hostility that each feel for the other. This book was packed full of heartache, hope, intrigue, sweetness and great supporting cast of secondary characters.
In this book Kate's life is in danger from her family and the "Lions" group. Harry's objections and loathing for Kate is put to rest in this book. When he discovers the truth he is left devastated. The emotions conveyed in Dreyers writing of all Harry is feeling breaks your heart. Kate is also left floundering since her reason to be angry at Harry is dashed with his confession. These two deserve so much happiness. The trials and heartbreak they've both gone through is immense. Harry is tired and ready to start the next part in his life. He's lived this whole time thinking that Kate wasn't the girl he fell for and it was lies. When he finds out all the pain she has suffered he goes about making amends. His patience, understanding and tenderness awaken passion in Kate. I absolutely adore Harry. When the book first starts I wasn't too sure about him. His dislike of Kate blinded him and he treated her pretty shabby at the beginning. But once he realizes his error boy did he try. Some of my favorite and very poignant scenes are his lessons in kissing Kate. Harry's kisses are erotic and sweet...talk about swoon moment, ladies! Harry is gallant, strong, a beautiful soul, resourceful and just damn sexy as hell.
As for Kate...wow talk about a strong heroine. From her sarcastic retorts to her moments of vulnerability I was drawn to her character. She is loyal to those she loves and puts them above all things. I couldn't imagine the nightmare of marriage she suffered. My heart broke for her and I shed a bit of tears when I the reader and Harry realized the full magnitude of her suffering. She hides her pain behind her outlandish antics and smart mouth.
Scenes between the two were always explosive whether in passion or hate. The best scenes were Harry's lessons in kisses. One of my favorite quotes that I think summarize very well what a long road these two have to go before they can trust and possibly love again is below....
"His body all but seized in excitement. His own heart was matching and outdistancing hers. For God's sake, it was just a kiss. He couldn't remember when last he'd spent so much time simply exploring a mouth. But this mouth was special. Breaching these defenses was a triumph."
Sigh...it says so much. The connection and awareness for each other jumps off the pages and just smacks you. I held my breathe when Kate held hers, I cried along with Harry when he cried and laughed when they found a little happiness. The secondary characters which included the previous Drake's Rake motley crew, Kate's household staff and Bea added to the storyline. They provided nice mix to the sadness and gave the book some of the laughing moments. Kate's brother the current Duke, his wife and the "Lions" added the intrigue to the book with they're sinister agendas. I really want to know more about Drake himself, Chuffy and Ian. I really hope we will get a story for Ian...the giant Scotsman.
All and all I enjoyed this book and completely fell in love with the leading couple. I cried, I laughed, and I rooted and sat on the edge rooting Harry on when he was desperate towards the end of the book. Always a Temptress was a 180 degree change from Never Love a Gentleman. I highly recommend this book for fans of stories where the leading couple go from love to hate, sinister plot, great supporting cast and a satisfying ending that will leave you sighing and smiling. Be sure to have tissue handy.
November 17, 2019
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed the first half of this book. It had all the elements of second chance that I adore. But the last half sort of switched in tone, and I found it a struggle to finish. It seems a perfect time to take a break before coming back to the series.
I really enjoyed the first half of this book. It had all the elements of second chance that I adore. But the last half sort of switched in tone, and I found it a struggle to finish. It seems a perfect time to take a break before coming back to the series.
October 2, 2011
In 2010 Eileen Dreyer introduced us to her Drake's Rakes, and to three of them she gave a Grace for their very own.
In `Barely a Lady', Jack found his Grace, Olivia Grace that is and in `Never a Gentleman', Diccan couldn't outrun his Grace, Grace Fairchild. And then Harry confronts Her Grace, the Dowager Duchess of Murther in 'Always a Temptress' and their story, as the earlier two, had me spellbound and on the edge of my seat.
How can I do this novel justice AND keep the `spoilers' out?! I want to shout it out loud and let you know all the why's and what for's...but I'll contain my enthusiasm, and tell you why I loved Kate and Harry's love story.
We met this flamboyant woman in the first book, and she was someone you couldn't help but like from the start. She was a daughter, sister and a wife of a Duke; fearless, hated, envied and admired. She surrounded herself with friends from all walks of life; aristocrats, soldiers and a motley crew of misfits in her employ made up an eclectic `bouquet' of friends that kept the darkness away and Kate's life content.
Until the day that greed and secrets, kept by her and from her, shattered, bettered and forced her to face all her fears she carefully and methodically hid, in the dark corners of her soul.
Major Sir Harry Lidge we met in the previous book and we knew from his interactions with Kate that the past they shared would one day come to haunt both, and once it did, both would have `some splainin' to do'.
Harry's life ten years ago was filled with dreams of travel and love for a girl of a Duke, and as a second son of a squire, that was a dream a bit too high, even for him. That however didn't stop him and the love he felt for his `Katie' came crashing down all around him, like the famous buildings he dreamed one day of building. Being brought up by loving parents, in a home that buzzed with activity and happiness, Harry's decision to accept the Duke's offer of a commission was the right thing to do. He knew that his dreams, if ever he survived the war, might be rebuilt and hopes for that dream kept him alive; kept him moving even when the nightmares of the battles fought tried to keep him down.
Upon finishing this novel, I truly couldn't decide who was more the hero of this piece, Kate or Harry. Both had major hurdles to overcome, but the strength that Kate displayed was ferocious!
The story opens with Kate's abduction for her protection and continues with her brother's attempts to commit her to an asylum for her outrageous behavior. In the middle of it all, Drake's Rakes are still in pursuit of the cursed verse and assassin's attempts at killing our hero and heroine almost succeed. To some, this might be too much happening all at once, but trust me, none is, and all is important to the story that is fast paced, and every character we meet has depth, but none so like our Kate and Harry. Their road back to each other despite of all the hardships they lived through was destined to end with love and passion winning the day!
`Always a Temptress' had me smile, cry and sigh, but it never, EVER had me bored! Ms. Dreyer, I hear that you'll be writing more of Drake's Rakes, so BRING THEM ON! I refuse to think that Ian is dead!
In `Barely a Lady', Jack found his Grace, Olivia Grace that is and in `Never a Gentleman', Diccan couldn't outrun his Grace, Grace Fairchild. And then Harry confronts Her Grace, the Dowager Duchess of Murther in 'Always a Temptress' and their story, as the earlier two, had me spellbound and on the edge of my seat.
How can I do this novel justice AND keep the `spoilers' out?! I want to shout it out loud and let you know all the why's and what for's...but I'll contain my enthusiasm, and tell you why I loved Kate and Harry's love story.
We met this flamboyant woman in the first book, and she was someone you couldn't help but like from the start. She was a daughter, sister and a wife of a Duke; fearless, hated, envied and admired. She surrounded herself with friends from all walks of life; aristocrats, soldiers and a motley crew of misfits in her employ made up an eclectic `bouquet' of friends that kept the darkness away and Kate's life content.
Until the day that greed and secrets, kept by her and from her, shattered, bettered and forced her to face all her fears she carefully and methodically hid, in the dark corners of her soul.
Major Sir Harry Lidge we met in the previous book and we knew from his interactions with Kate that the past they shared would one day come to haunt both, and once it did, both would have `some splainin' to do'.
Harry's life ten years ago was filled with dreams of travel and love for a girl of a Duke, and as a second son of a squire, that was a dream a bit too high, even for him. That however didn't stop him and the love he felt for his `Katie' came crashing down all around him, like the famous buildings he dreamed one day of building. Being brought up by loving parents, in a home that buzzed with activity and happiness, Harry's decision to accept the Duke's offer of a commission was the right thing to do. He knew that his dreams, if ever he survived the war, might be rebuilt and hopes for that dream kept him alive; kept him moving even when the nightmares of the battles fought tried to keep him down.
Upon finishing this novel, I truly couldn't decide who was more the hero of this piece, Kate or Harry. Both had major hurdles to overcome, but the strength that Kate displayed was ferocious!
The story opens with Kate's abduction for her protection and continues with her brother's attempts to commit her to an asylum for her outrageous behavior. In the middle of it all, Drake's Rakes are still in pursuit of the cursed verse and assassin's attempts at killing our hero and heroine almost succeed. To some, this might be too much happening all at once, but trust me, none is, and all is important to the story that is fast paced, and every character we meet has depth, but none so like our Kate and Harry. Their road back to each other despite of all the hardships they lived through was destined to end with love and passion winning the day!
`Always a Temptress' had me smile, cry and sigh, but it never, EVER had me bored! Ms. Dreyer, I hear that you'll be writing more of Drake's Rakes, so BRING THEM ON! I refuse to think that Ian is dead!
January 2, 2015
Fantastic book full of scandal, intrigue and redemption. Harry is back in England after ten years of being at war. He's ready to follow his dream of traveling the world, but has one last thing to do for his friend Drake. He has to kidnap Lady Kate and find out what she has to do with the group who is trying to bring down the monarchy. He will believe anything of her since she betrayed him when they were younger. Kate is a widow who spends her days courting scandal. She avoids Harry whenever possible because of the way he betrayed her when they were younger. She is stunned to find her suspects her of treason.
Kate appears to be a strong woman who doesn't care what society thinks of her. She lives her life the way she wants to. Years ago she and Harry had been friends, then had fallen in love. Her father was going to marry her to an old man and Harry promised to save her, but then he deserted her and left her to her sadistic husband. She has never forgiven him. When he kidnaps her he accuses her of treason and threatens her if she doesn't tell him what he needs to know. Meanwhile Harry had been told lies about her and offered a chance to join the army and get away from her. Once they actually start to listen to what each has to say things start to change between them. Both must learn to trust the other one again. While Harry made me really angry at the beginning with his attitude toward her, once he learned the truth his actions completely changed. I really loved the caring and patience he used to help her heal from her traumas. It was obvious that he still loved her but he was very good at denying it to himself and others. I got a bit frustrated with his tunnel vision regarding his future, as I waited for him to realize what was important. Kate's life during her marriage was so horrific it was amazing that she was as happy as she seemed to be. When Harry made the accusations he did she couldn't understand how he could think that of her. When he confronted her with the things her father had told him she was stunned and furious. I loved the way that she disproved his beliefs. Even so, she was extremely wary of trusting him in any way because of her experiences. I enjoyed seeing her confound him with the truth of her life as it really was. I also liked seeing how she ended up being just as sensitive to his traumas as he was to hers. Their reconciliation wasn't easy and it wasn't fast, but it was believable.
The mystery of the missing information is very well done. Someone is trying to kill Kate because of something she has or knows but she is unaware of what it is. Harry is determined to protect her and it isn't an easy task. He has the help of the other Rakes, plus an interesting assortment of her friends and employees. I loved Bea and her unique way of communicating. Kate and Harry end up in some very interesting situations as the search comes to a head. Some are funny, some are scary and some are heartbreaking.
Kate appears to be a strong woman who doesn't care what society thinks of her. She lives her life the way she wants to. Years ago she and Harry had been friends, then had fallen in love. Her father was going to marry her to an old man and Harry promised to save her, but then he deserted her and left her to her sadistic husband. She has never forgiven him. When he kidnaps her he accuses her of treason and threatens her if she doesn't tell him what he needs to know. Meanwhile Harry had been told lies about her and offered a chance to join the army and get away from her. Once they actually start to listen to what each has to say things start to change between them. Both must learn to trust the other one again. While Harry made me really angry at the beginning with his attitude toward her, once he learned the truth his actions completely changed. I really loved the caring and patience he used to help her heal from her traumas. It was obvious that he still loved her but he was very good at denying it to himself and others. I got a bit frustrated with his tunnel vision regarding his future, as I waited for him to realize what was important. Kate's life during her marriage was so horrific it was amazing that she was as happy as she seemed to be. When Harry made the accusations he did she couldn't understand how he could think that of her. When he confronted her with the things her father had told him she was stunned and furious. I loved the way that she disproved his beliefs. Even so, she was extremely wary of trusting him in any way because of her experiences. I enjoyed seeing her confound him with the truth of her life as it really was. I also liked seeing how she ended up being just as sensitive to his traumas as he was to hers. Their reconciliation wasn't easy and it wasn't fast, but it was believable.
The mystery of the missing information is very well done. Someone is trying to kill Kate because of something she has or knows but she is unaware of what it is. Harry is determined to protect her and it isn't an easy task. He has the help of the other Rakes, plus an interesting assortment of her friends and employees. I loved Bea and her unique way of communicating. Kate and Harry end up in some very interesting situations as the search comes to a head. Some are funny, some are scary and some are heartbreaking.
November 16, 2013
Over all, this is my favorite book of the series so far. We met Harry in book 2 and Kate in books 1 and 2. I love how the the plot continues on in to this story and certain clues in books 1-2 carry over to this book.
Harry and Lady Kate go a long ways back. They have a 10 year standing feud. They actually met when he was 20 and she was 15. They fell in love with each other, unfortunately, certain people had other plans for this couple and they are torn apart.
As the years go on, when they see each other, they can't help but lash out at one another with their hurt and pain. Unfortunately, or fortunately, others who set out to betray Kate, and have made it to where Harry has to marry Kate to protect her. This however is AFTER the fact that she gets kidnapped first and Harry plays a role in that.
We were able to see the brave, loving, caring, witty Lady Kate in the first two books. What we don't see is that this is all a facade and what lies underneath the exterior of this woman. She really is a great lady and has a good sense of humor but she has years have hurt in all forms laying at her feet and feeds her nightmares.
Harry also is a great guy, a great artist with many dreams of traveling the world after he sells his commission. Unfortunately, he too has many demons that fuel his nights and give him many nightmares.
These two were perfect for each other in the long run. They both put up fronts and suffer silently in the night, and often alone. They are both afraid to give over their hearts to each other again or to let the other one know. Only one of them is brave enough to share their true feelings....then things go terribly wrong. Will the other be able to save the other and then let this person know of their feelings as well?
Harry and Lady Kate go a long ways back. They have a 10 year standing feud. They actually met when he was 20 and she was 15. They fell in love with each other, unfortunately, certain people had other plans for this couple and they are torn apart.
As the years go on, when they see each other, they can't help but lash out at one another with their hurt and pain. Unfortunately, or fortunately, others who set out to betray Kate, and have made it to where Harry has to marry Kate to protect her. This however is AFTER the fact that she gets kidnapped first and Harry plays a role in that.
We were able to see the brave, loving, caring, witty Lady Kate in the first two books. What we don't see is that this is all a facade and what lies underneath the exterior of this woman. She really is a great lady and has a good sense of humor but she has years have hurt in all forms laying at her feet and feeds her nightmares.
Harry also is a great guy, a great artist with many dreams of traveling the world after he sells his commission. Unfortunately, he too has many demons that fuel his nights and give him many nightmares.
These two were perfect for each other in the long run. They both put up fronts and suffer silently in the night, and often alone. They are both afraid to give over their hearts to each other again or to let the other one know. Only one of them is brave enough to share their true feelings....then things go terribly wrong. Will the other be able to save the other and then let this person know of their feelings as well?
September 15, 2016
Rocky start (sheesh! hear one thing but jump to completely different/wrong assumption) but ultimately, another smartly-written & relatively fast read (for me, more character-driven than plot). My few minor quibbles aren’t worth mentioning, given the wonderful combo of endearing characters (ah, Lady Bea!), witty dialogue, and heart-tugging angst. Have loved Kate’s character since book #1 so whilst not very surprised by her backstory, loved reading how she & Harry work their way back together.
As an aside, interesting to note several similar themes/devices as in book #2. (But thank you, Ms. Dreyer, for ditching the ‘treat as mushroom for your protection’ shtick!)
Overall series arc to be continued...
Some tropes/themes:
As an aside, interesting to note several similar themes/devices as in book #2. (But thank you, Ms. Dreyer, for ditching the ‘treat as mushroom for your protection’ shtick!)
Overall series arc to be continued...
Some tropes/themes:
October 1, 2011
I really like this author's themes and while some of her previous plot twists have had readers wall banging, I think Ms. Dreyer is fearless. I was definitely waiting for Kate and Harry's story and it did not disappoint. There were a few times were I didn't feel much empathy for Harry -in fact wanted to kick his a** on more than one occasion. However, he redeemed himself nicely. Themes like abandonment, sexual and physical abuse are difficult to write with depth and not make the read harrowing.
October 25, 2011
Dreyer's books include a lot of violence against women (see BARELY A LADY). Physical violence, yes, and emotional violence by the men that they love. Although the emotional violence in this book was done inadvertently by the hero, it still had major consequences for the heroine, and I had a hard time believing that she wouldn't hold him at all responsible, even after hearing about the circumstances that led to his betrayal.
August 29, 2015
Another great book in Eileen Dreyer's Drake's Rakes series.
Dreyer's characterisations are brilliant. I loved seeing beneath Kate's confident, carefree facade to the vulnerable woman beneath. Even more, I loved watching Harry and Kate finding each other again.
Always a Temptress is written with great depth and sensitivity. I'm really enjoying this author, and how wonderful to know that she plans nine books for this series.
Dreyer's characterisations are brilliant. I loved seeing beneath Kate's confident, carefree facade to the vulnerable woman beneath. Even more, I loved watching Harry and Kate finding each other again.
Always a Temptress is written with great depth and sensitivity. I'm really enjoying this author, and how wonderful to know that she plans nine books for this series.
December 28, 2014
This book was a bit of a let done. Lady Kate and Lady Bea were my favorite characters in the series so I was hoping for more background and a bit fleshing out of their characters. Sadly, nothing was fleshed out to my satisfaction. That confrontation at the start was a bit unbelievable to me too and it doesn't seem to jive with what happens at the end.
September 21, 2015
I am really, really enjoying this series. I poached it off of one of y'all's shelves and now I'm just blowing through it. It's not as good as Bourne's Spymaster series, but it's also very different in tone. It's more melodrama and the intrigue is less coherent.
That said, up late again finishing this one. Damn it, Dreyer.
That said, up late again finishing this one. Damn it, Dreyer.
May 12, 2012
This is the one where the hero thinks the heroine is a slut and tries to treat her like one...
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