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Lords of Temptation #4
A Bargain with a Beast
What’s a man to do when a tiny baby is dropped at his door?
Lord Griswold Smith isn’t exactly genteel, despite his title. Gris is a hard hitting, gin making, gaming hell running, cursing and spitting giant of a man. Who would even leave a baby in his care? He’ll find her mother, return her from whence she came, and go back to his derelict life. Until he can track down the fool of a woman who dropped tiny Rose off to begin with, he’ll need help. A temporary nanny should do the trick.
Her new employer is an absolute beast….
But she’s as desperate as a woman can be. Which is why Miss Violet Chase accepts the nanny position even though Lord Griswold is as large and imposing as a man comes. With her father’s imprisonment, she has no alternative. And besides, the first time she sees Gris’s massive arms wrapped around a tiny little baby, something deep inside her shifts.
And when the demons of her father’s past come knocking, suddenly a large and intimidating man is exactly what she needs. Is he strong enough to beat back the demons that chase her all while holding a tiny babe in his arms? And how might it feel to be held in that same way? She’d like to find out…
Lord Griswold Smith isn’t exactly genteel, despite his title. Gris is a hard hitting, gin making, gaming hell running, cursing and spitting giant of a man. Who would even leave a baby in his care? He’ll find her mother, return her from whence she came, and go back to his derelict life. Until he can track down the fool of a woman who dropped tiny Rose off to begin with, he’ll need help. A temporary nanny should do the trick.
Her new employer is an absolute beast….
But she’s as desperate as a woman can be. Which is why Miss Violet Chase accepts the nanny position even though Lord Griswold is as large and imposing as a man comes. With her father’s imprisonment, she has no alternative. And besides, the first time she sees Gris’s massive arms wrapped around a tiny little baby, something deep inside her shifts.
And when the demons of her father’s past come knocking, suddenly a large and intimidating man is exactly what she needs. Is he strong enough to beat back the demons that chase her all while holding a tiny babe in his arms? And how might it feel to be held in that same way? She’d like to find out…
151 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2023
190 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 4, 2023
A Bargain with a Beast, the fourth book in The Lords of Temptation series, is a unique and entertaining historical romance that begins when Gris finds a baby at his door with a note saying he is the father. Though he is intent on finding them other and returning the baby, his task proves difficult, and with no one in his employ skilled in caring for a baby, Gris sets out to find a temporary nanny to help.
With her father in debtor prison and his debtors harassing her for the owed money, Violet is in desperate need of a job, and though Gris seems a beast and she has no nanny experience, she takes his offer. Violet quickly learns Gris is not the beast he appears to be, and as they care for little Rose, the pair becomes closer.
Gris and Violet have a fantastic romance, and I enjoyed their personal journeys too. Each struggles with their own problems, but I think their budding relationship changes them and makes them think differently about themselves. Gris never feels good enough and often wonders about his worth and contributions to his family. Violet is dealing with the threats against her and her father. Each finds strength and confidence within themselves and with each other.
I feel like they’ve started to create a sanctuary of sorts in Gris’s home, not just for themselves, but for Rose and others who need it. Gris goes from being a bachelor who lives with his bachelor brother (love him!!! OMG his reactions to the crying baby are hysterical!) to a man with several females in his care. It’s like a little found family – my favorite trope!!
I really enjoyed A Bargain with a Beast! The protagonists are compelling, the chemistry between Gris and Violet is fantastic, and the secondary characters are wonderful too. I also thought the ending was lovely – very touching and emotional.
This is the fourth book in the series, but it’s the first in the series I’ve read, and I had no trouble following it. It can easily be read as a standalone. Of course, now I need to go back and read the first three books in the series! lol And I NEED Fulton’s story! He’s a great secondary character in this book, and I love his witty and acerbic personality.
Special thanks to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
With her father in debtor prison and his debtors harassing her for the owed money, Violet is in desperate need of a job, and though Gris seems a beast and she has no nanny experience, she takes his offer. Violet quickly learns Gris is not the beast he appears to be, and as they care for little Rose, the pair becomes closer.
Gris and Violet have a fantastic romance, and I enjoyed their personal journeys too. Each struggles with their own problems, but I think their budding relationship changes them and makes them think differently about themselves. Gris never feels good enough and often wonders about his worth and contributions to his family. Violet is dealing with the threats against her and her father. Each finds strength and confidence within themselves and with each other.
I feel like they’ve started to create a sanctuary of sorts in Gris’s home, not just for themselves, but for Rose and others who need it. Gris goes from being a bachelor who lives with his bachelor brother (love him!!! OMG his reactions to the crying baby are hysterical!) to a man with several females in his care. It’s like a little found family – my favorite trope!!
I really enjoyed A Bargain with a Beast! The protagonists are compelling, the chemistry between Gris and Violet is fantastic, and the secondary characters are wonderful too. I also thought the ending was lovely – very touching and emotional.
This is the fourth book in the series, but it’s the first in the series I’ve read, and I had no trouble following it. It can easily be read as a standalone. Of course, now I need to go back and read the first three books in the series! lol And I NEED Fulton’s story! He’s a great secondary character in this book, and I love his witty and acerbic personality.
Special thanks to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
December 6, 2025
This book gave off very strong 'Wicked Winters' vibes
However, less steamy, less vibrant and less 'standalone-y'.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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However, less steamy, less vibrant and less 'standalone-y'.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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May 6, 2023
4.5 Stars
Lord Griswold Smith isn’t exactly genteel, despite his title. Gris is a hard hitting, gin making, giant of a man. Who would even leave a baby in his care? He’ll find her mother, return her from whence she came, and go back to his life. Until he can track down the fool of a woman who dropped tiny Rose off to begin with, he’ll need help. A temporary nanny should do the trick. Miss Violet Chase is desperate her father is in a debtors’ prison & she's being hounded to pay his debts. So the offer of a nannys position is more than welcome. And besides, the first time she sees Gris’s massive arms wrapped around a tiny little baby, something deep inside her shifts.
Gris is the fourth Smith sibling to find love & I loved the image of a beast of a man gently cuddling a tiny baby & my heart melted. A captivating read once again with wonderful characters, Gris & Violet are perfect for each other but they each think they’re not good enough. I thoroughly enjoyed their journey to a HEA & look forward to Lucy finding love & the brash Fulton being brought to his knees
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Lord Griswold Smith isn’t exactly genteel, despite his title. Gris is a hard hitting, gin making, giant of a man. Who would even leave a baby in his care? He’ll find her mother, return her from whence she came, and go back to his life. Until he can track down the fool of a woman who dropped tiny Rose off to begin with, he’ll need help. A temporary nanny should do the trick. Miss Violet Chase is desperate her father is in a debtors’ prison & she's being hounded to pay his debts. So the offer of a nannys position is more than welcome. And besides, the first time she sees Gris’s massive arms wrapped around a tiny little baby, something deep inside her shifts.
Gris is the fourth Smith sibling to find love & I loved the image of a beast of a man gently cuddling a tiny baby & my heart melted. A captivating read once again with wonderful characters, Gris & Violet are perfect for each other but they each think they’re not good enough. I thoroughly enjoyed their journey to a HEA & look forward to Lucy finding love & the brash Fulton being brought to his knees
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 9, 2023
This is the fourth book in Tammy Andresen’s Lords of Temptation series. It can be read as a standalone, but I think reading the series in order would provide for a better experience. Gris and Violet were a wonderful couple, and I loved the secondary characters in this book. I can’t wait for them to get their own HEA. This is a quick and easy read.
I received an ARC of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received an ARC of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 10, 2023
Was this a novella? It felt like a novella. Whatever it was, I didn't care for it. I liked the flower-themed names but otherwise this book was just not what I wanted. I really love baby and parenthood stories but everything moves way too fast for me to get attached to any character. I wish I had more to say but this was too short for me to truly analyze anything!
May 5, 2023
This book could’ve benefited from being longer. It takes place over a very short amount of time where I’m supposed to believe two people meet and fall in love. I don’t think it’s even a week since the two main characters meet to him proposing and doing it because he has feelings for her.
I think maybe if Violet had already been in Gris’s household somehow, maybe as an overlooked maid, and then stepped into the role of nanny, or anything that gave them a prior connection, their relationship wouldn’t have felt so rushed.
The story was sweet though, and the prologue made me teary eyed. You really feel for Reynalda.
I think maybe if Violet had already been in Gris’s household somehow, maybe as an overlooked maid, and then stepped into the role of nanny, or anything that gave them a prior connection, their relationship wouldn’t have felt so rushed.
The story was sweet though, and the prologue made me teary eyed. You really feel for Reynalda.
May 11, 2023
An adorable storyline!! I loved every aspect of the actual story. The heroine was genuine sunshine, the hero was at first presented as a beastly gruff fellow but you get to see his softer side, the cook was a hard lady with glimpses of a loving side, hero’s brother was a foul-mouthed ruffian troublemaker with a good side….
The only drawback was that the story was only 125 pages long and takes place in under a weeks time. So there’s definitely an insta-love feeling that leans the story sharply into the unbelievable that these two can fall deeply in love and google-eyed that quickly. Maybe they can, but I love reading historical romances to watch the gruff hero struggle with his conflicting emotions while falling in love. In this story there’s not that much struggle (except him wondering if he was good enough for the heroine)
Other drawback, I started to think maybe this was a clean romance. But they did finally have one (not very steamy) scene at around page 100 (so end of the story). Which in a normal full-length novel, page 100 is about when the first sex scene takes place. But this was a super short story, and them finally consummating their relationship at the end of the story once they are married/in love already, it somehow lacks any sexual tension or chemistry.
So perfectly sweet cute story, but would have benefitted from being a lot longer and being able to install sexual chemistry, and prolong the hero’s beastly personality a bit more before becoming a big ol’ teddy bear.
I would say this could be a stand alone story. I didn’t not read the first few books in the series (I plan to) and I didn’t feel lost, but it would have been more enjoyable if I knew all of the siblings names that were mentioned.
The only drawback was that the story was only 125 pages long and takes place in under a weeks time. So there’s definitely an insta-love feeling that leans the story sharply into the unbelievable that these two can fall deeply in love and google-eyed that quickly. Maybe they can, but I love reading historical romances to watch the gruff hero struggle with his conflicting emotions while falling in love. In this story there’s not that much struggle (except him wondering if he was good enough for the heroine)
Other drawback, I started to think maybe this was a clean romance. But they did finally have one (not very steamy) scene at around page 100 (so end of the story). Which in a normal full-length novel, page 100 is about when the first sex scene takes place. But this was a super short story, and them finally consummating their relationship at the end of the story once they are married/in love already, it somehow lacks any sexual tension or chemistry.
So perfectly sweet cute story, but would have benefitted from being a lot longer and being able to install sexual chemistry, and prolong the hero’s beastly personality a bit more before becoming a big ol’ teddy bear.
I would say this could be a stand alone story. I didn’t not read the first few books in the series (I plan to) and I didn’t feel lost, but it would have been more enjoyable if I knew all of the siblings names that were mentioned.
May 4, 2023
A Bargain with a Beast. I loved the stories plot. I found it to be be current and relatable to most readers. I liked that Gris’s character was written to be adaptable to the plot. I mean Rose with her little fist reaching out him was so adorable.
So with that being said Gris is my favorite character next to Rose, next to Fulton. Ladies hold on to your hats, because Fulton is a maniac. I didn’t know whether to laugh or hope and pray that they kept Rose away from him. I did have a problem associating with Violets character. I felt that she did contribute as much decision making or abilities to the motivating factor of the story.
I thought she was very submissive and not in a powerful way. The story is very good and is a romantic page turner. The plot of the story held my attention and kept my focused on the entertainment that the story provides. I give this story two snaps and a, “Fulton stop trying to teach Rose how to will a sword. She’s only a month old.” Until next time my fellow readers… read on!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
So with that being said Gris is my favorite character next to Rose, next to Fulton. Ladies hold on to your hats, because Fulton is a maniac. I didn’t know whether to laugh or hope and pray that they kept Rose away from him. I did have a problem associating with Violets character. I felt that she did contribute as much decision making or abilities to the motivating factor of the story.
I thought she was very submissive and not in a powerful way. The story is very good and is a romantic page turner. The plot of the story held my attention and kept my focused on the entertainment that the story provides. I give this story two snaps and a, “Fulton stop trying to teach Rose how to will a sword. She’s only a month old.” Until next time my fellow readers… read on!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2023
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Gris owns a gaming hell with his brother and some other more wealthy investors.
Having a baby appear in your doorstep is not the kind of awakening you desire after a long night working, but that’s what he gets. When a note says the baby is his it’s complete panic.
After employing a very lovely lady to help him care for the child the search begins for the mother.
And maybe a little falling in love with the nanny along the way.
Great read
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Gris owns a gaming hell with his brother and some other more wealthy investors.
Having a baby appear in your doorstep is not the kind of awakening you desire after a long night working, but that’s what he gets. When a note says the baby is his it’s complete panic.
After employing a very lovely lady to help him care for the child the search begins for the mother.
And maybe a little falling in love with the nanny along the way.
Great read
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
May 12, 2023
This is my 89th book by Tammy Andresen and I have been reading her since 2017. Obviously, I consider her one of my favorites. 😊 I find a lot of her books are quick reads but still good reads.
This one seemed really short but I felt she got a good depth of characters especially considering how short it was. This and Violet were a good read.
This one seemed really short but I felt she got a good depth of characters especially considering how short it was. This and Violet were a good read.
May 12, 2023
Sweet Baby Girl
Of all the Smith Brothers in this series, Gris has touched my heart the mist. This one made me cry. But Grid' heart and Violets sweet spirit make it worth it. Tammy Andersen has written BB a great one - as always
Of all the Smith Brothers in this series, Gris has touched my heart the mist. This one made me cry. But Grid' heart and Violets sweet spirit make it worth it. Tammy Andersen has written BB a great one - as always
May 17, 2023
A quick read. It didn't seem to be long enough. Anyhow, was an enjoyable story with Gris and Violet, and baby Rose. 4☆
May 25, 2023
The fourth book in the Lords of Temptation series. Lord Griswold Smith (Gris), his daughter Rose and Miss Violet Chase along with Mrs. Lily Grey the wet nurse and Mrs. Mable's story, of damaged people finding each and bringing luck into there lifes by doing so. There is suspense, drama, twists, turns, danger, villains and romance. I enjoyed reading this story. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2024
This was a good addition to the Lords of Temptation series (a spinoff of the Lords of Scandal series), my favorite of the series so far. It gets 3.5 stars from me, rounded up to 4 stars.
I read the Lords of Scandal series, but it was some time ago, so I had already forgotten a great deal about the plot and characters. It would help, I think, to read the Lords of Scandal series right before reading this spinoff series.
Violet was likable, and it was sad how her father had left her in a desperate situation when he was sent to debtor's prison. He apparently didn't care that she would be expected to pay his debts, and that she would suffer greatly in attempting to pay them.
Gris was likable, and I loved that he automatically accepted little Rose as his daughter, even though he wasn't sure she was his biological child. He found Violet to be her nanny, since he knew very little about babies. I also liked that he tried to find Rose's mother, initially thinking he should give Rose back to her -- but when he realized her mother was dying, he kept Rose as his daughter. Gris and Violet were already in love by then, and had decided to marry. Gris wanted to protect both Rose and Violet, and Violet had helped him realize that he had much to offer (and wasn't useless, as his father said). I loved that Violet helped him to see he was a good man, and that his father was wrong.
Other reviewers have mentioned that this series has lots of historical errors, and that the couples' behavior and language often doesn't fit the rigid cultural requirements of that time period. That is true, but I don't really mind in this case -- since I am reading the series merely for entertainment. If I were looking for historical accuracy, I would read a classic author like Jane Austen.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
I read the Lords of Scandal series, but it was some time ago, so I had already forgotten a great deal about the plot and characters. It would help, I think, to read the Lords of Scandal series right before reading this spinoff series.
Violet was likable, and it was sad how her father had left her in a desperate situation when he was sent to debtor's prison. He apparently didn't care that she would be expected to pay his debts, and that she would suffer greatly in attempting to pay them.
Gris was likable, and I loved that he automatically accepted little Rose as his daughter, even though he wasn't sure she was his biological child. He found Violet to be her nanny, since he knew very little about babies. I also liked that he tried to find Rose's mother, initially thinking he should give Rose back to her -- but when he realized her mother was dying, he kept Rose as his daughter. Gris and Violet were already in love by then, and had decided to marry. Gris wanted to protect both Rose and Violet, and Violet had helped him realize that he had much to offer (and wasn't useless, as his father said). I loved that Violet helped him to see he was a good man, and that his father was wrong.
Other reviewers have mentioned that this series has lots of historical errors, and that the couples' behavior and language often doesn't fit the rigid cultural requirements of that time period. That is true, but I don't really mind in this case -- since I am reading the series merely for entertainment. If I were looking for historical accuracy, I would read a classic author like Jane Austen.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
April 20, 2023
A Bargain with a Beast
(Lords of Temptation Book 4)
By Tammy Andresen
If you remember (and I did) the last we saw of Gris was at the end of Emma and Triston’s story there was a tiny little person left on the Smith Brother’s doorstep with a note to Lord Griswald Smith…is Gris really a father? Has a mistake been made?
Well, no Fulton did find a baby and if the note is true, then yes Gris is baby Rose’s father. It seems however that no one (even the cook) is really a “baby’ person. Now Gris is looking for someone preferably a nanny to watch over little Rose.
She’s not a nanny but Miss Violet Chase is in dire need of a job and since her friend Emma (who just happens to be Lord Triston’s Smith’s wife) has promised Gris she has just the person for the job. If the first few days show us anything Violet indeed is very capable of taking care of Rose. Gris is busy searching London to try to find the woman who left little Rose on their doorstep. The search however is not going well…but there is also something else afoot ….it seems that a man (not a gentleman to be sure) very much wants Violet in payment for her father’s debts. Violet of course wants no part of him and Gris and Fulton are also busy keeping her safe!
A bit of suspense, the men trying to buy the gaming hell have returned and Gris and Violet are bonding over time spent with baby Rose….what could go wrong!
Well, it’s Regency London and so much can go wrong. Thank goodness that their business partners are there to help as well as Triston and Emma. Even the King gets involved….
A quick read with lots of action, a cute baby and this is all leading up to our next book! As always, Author Tammy Andresen gives us a visit to Regency England where anything can happen (and often it does).
(Lords of Temptation Book 4)
By Tammy Andresen
If you remember (and I did) the last we saw of Gris was at the end of Emma and Triston’s story there was a tiny little person left on the Smith Brother’s doorstep with a note to Lord Griswald Smith…is Gris really a father? Has a mistake been made?
Well, no Fulton did find a baby and if the note is true, then yes Gris is baby Rose’s father. It seems however that no one (even the cook) is really a “baby’ person. Now Gris is looking for someone preferably a nanny to watch over little Rose.
She’s not a nanny but Miss Violet Chase is in dire need of a job and since her friend Emma (who just happens to be Lord Triston’s Smith’s wife) has promised Gris she has just the person for the job. If the first few days show us anything Violet indeed is very capable of taking care of Rose. Gris is busy searching London to try to find the woman who left little Rose on their doorstep. The search however is not going well…but there is also something else afoot ….it seems that a man (not a gentleman to be sure) very much wants Violet in payment for her father’s debts. Violet of course wants no part of him and Gris and Fulton are also busy keeping her safe!
A bit of suspense, the men trying to buy the gaming hell have returned and Gris and Violet are bonding over time spent with baby Rose….what could go wrong!
Well, it’s Regency London and so much can go wrong. Thank goodness that their business partners are there to help as well as Triston and Emma. Even the King gets involved….
A quick read with lots of action, a cute baby and this is all leading up to our next book! As always, Author Tammy Andresen gives us a visit to Regency England where anything can happen (and often it does).
May 8, 2023
We were recently given the opportunity to read this one, and y'all. It is a wild freaking ride. First of all, look at that cover. When we saw it, we thought, "OK, this is probably a single mother romance and this 'Beast' dude is going to offer her protection." Well, we were 100% WRONG, because what happens is that a sex worker that Gris spent a few nights with just about, ohhhh, 10 months ago, drops their baby off on his doorstep and then leaves.
Gris knows he's the dad, and he spends the rest of the book trying to track down the mom, but y'all. This book is not about him marrying her. Nah, he falls in love with Vilolet: the nanny he hires, instead! There's some more stuff that happens in the book, too - an unscrupulous foreign count is buying up businesses in the neighborhood, meaning that Gris's livelihood is under attack - but the most important part of the love story is about how Gris has found the perfect caregiver for the daughter he never knew he had... while ALSO searching for the mother. (Yes, yes, we just talked about this, but it bears repeating because WTF holy moly!!)
You may be wondering: what is the HEA like when the book is focused on the search for the biological mother of this baby that both Gris and Violet are falling in love with? Well it is a DOOZY. It's also a major spoiler, so we won't be putting it in the caption, but trust me, it's something we've never seen in another HR. (DM if you want the deets.)
3.5 stars rounded to 4. While we personally didn't love the plot, the writing is nice and the love between Gris and Violet is heartfelt and clearly conveyed. Pick this one up if you're in the mood for a short, unconventional HR.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy.
Gris knows he's the dad, and he spends the rest of the book trying to track down the mom, but y'all. This book is not about him marrying her. Nah, he falls in love with Vilolet: the nanny he hires, instead! There's some more stuff that happens in the book, too - an unscrupulous foreign count is buying up businesses in the neighborhood, meaning that Gris's livelihood is under attack - but the most important part of the love story is about how Gris has found the perfect caregiver for the daughter he never knew he had... while ALSO searching for the mother. (Yes, yes, we just talked about this, but it bears repeating because WTF holy moly!!)
You may be wondering: what is the HEA like when the book is focused on the search for the biological mother of this baby that both Gris and Violet are falling in love with? Well it is a DOOZY. It's also a major spoiler, so we won't be putting it in the caption, but trust me, it's something we've never seen in another HR. (DM if you want the deets.)
3.5 stars rounded to 4. While we personally didn't love the plot, the writing is nice and the love between Gris and Violet is heartfelt and clearly conveyed. Pick this one up if you're in the mood for a short, unconventional HR.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy.
August 7, 2024
Wow, what a story! I have read three of the books in this series and plan to go back and read the rest. Their is so much to this story, it has such emotion and caring that I'm not sure how much to say with out giving away parts of the story. We have Griswold, Gris to family and friends. He is a Hugh bear of a man who loves his life as it is, he is part owner of a gaming hell and makes gin. He and his brothers and sisters are the illegitimate children of an Earl.
He has four brothers and two sisters! He has always felt like he was less then his sibling. Now the most have married he is missing them more. When his brother finds a baby on the stairs with his name on it he is shocked! Who would every leave a infant with a man like him! Till he can find her mother, baby Rose must stay but he needs help lots of help and quickly. Violet was raised in not the top of social but part of it. She had lesson, and anything she wanted til her mother died and and her dad stated to gamble and lost everything. Now he is in prison and she is in big trouble. Taking a job as a nanny is something she has never done but much better then what she has been offered. She knows little to nothing about babies and her new boss is a monster of a man, she has never seen anyone so big. As these two share care of Rose much will be learned by both. This is a fast paced story with a lot happening in a short time frame. It doesn't take away from all the emotion, caring, learning and understanding our couple find along the way. I have read a ton of Tammy's books and I think this might be my favorite. If only all women could have a Gris for themselves. He is one of a kind for sure. Be sure and not miss this one it is very special.
He has four brothers and two sisters! He has always felt like he was less then his sibling. Now the most have married he is missing them more. When his brother finds a baby on the stairs with his name on it he is shocked! Who would every leave a infant with a man like him! Till he can find her mother, baby Rose must stay but he needs help lots of help and quickly. Violet was raised in not the top of social but part of it. She had lesson, and anything she wanted til her mother died and and her dad stated to gamble and lost everything. Now he is in prison and she is in big trouble. Taking a job as a nanny is something she has never done but much better then what she has been offered. She knows little to nothing about babies and her new boss is a monster of a man, she has never seen anyone so big. As these two share care of Rose much will be learned by both. This is a fast paced story with a lot happening in a short time frame. It doesn't take away from all the emotion, caring, learning and understanding our couple find along the way. I have read a ton of Tammy's books and I think this might be my favorite. If only all women could have a Gris for themselves. He is one of a kind for sure. Be sure and not miss this one it is very special.
April 26, 2023
This book packed an emotional punch I was not expecting!
This is a shorter read, but Tammy Andresen manages to fit a lot of story into it.
The basic premise is that our hero, Gris, finds a baby on his doorstep with a note saying he's the father. Gris initially plans to find the mother and give the baby back but in the meantime he will need help taking care of little Rose which is how our lovely heroine, Violet, finds her way into his life.
I have to say I quite liked Violet. I've been reading so many books with Miss Independent female leads, and while I do enjoy them, it was nice that Violet was a bit more practical. She just wanted to be safe and not constantly worry how she would survive.
Gris struggled with feelings of unworthiness despite the fact that he's a very good man. I was drawn to this book because Gris is a criminal, and we ALL know how much I love a criminal hero!
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It is part of a series involving siblings, but I did fine reading it as a stand-alone. I do want to check out some of the other books in the series now, and Fulton may actually be my favorite, so I'll want to read his book.
Content warnings: death, discussion of miscarriage but none actually take place in the book
This is a shorter read, but Tammy Andresen manages to fit a lot of story into it.
The basic premise is that our hero, Gris, finds a baby on his doorstep with a note saying he's the father. Gris initially plans to find the mother and give the baby back but in the meantime he will need help taking care of little Rose which is how our lovely heroine, Violet, finds her way into his life.
I have to say I quite liked Violet. I've been reading so many books with Miss Independent female leads, and while I do enjoy them, it was nice that Violet was a bit more practical. She just wanted to be safe and not constantly worry how she would survive.
Gris struggled with feelings of unworthiness despite the fact that he's a very good man. I was drawn to this book because Gris is a criminal, and we ALL know how much I love a criminal hero!
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It is part of a series involving siblings, but I did fine reading it as a stand-alone. I do want to check out some of the other books in the series now, and Fulton may actually be my favorite, so I'll want to read his book.
Content warnings: death, discussion of miscarriage but none actually take place in the book
May 9, 2023
This series is unusual when it comes to Regency novels, in that although the Smith brothers have been made legitimate by their lordly brother and received titles, they are still rough diamonds who are more comfortable in the underbelly of London than the ballrooms. Even so, they give new meaning to the definition of worthy gentlemen, as they solve problems and come to the rescue of those who are unable to do so for themselves. Thus, when a baby is left in a basket on Lord Griswold's front doorstep, despite his apprehension and lack of experience, he and his brothers step into the breach. As it turns out the perfect solution to their immediate problem is solved by employing the destitute Miss Violet Chase as a nanny, and even though she has little experience with babies, she is quick to learn, and very soon the whole household comes under her gentling influence. There is some suspense and drama in this fast-paced romance and I found that I was unable to put the book down. I received a copy of this well-written and intriguing romance as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
April 9, 2023
This book is about the next Smith brother, you do not have to read the other books in this series to read this book, but if you do, you will enjoy all of them. Lord Griswold Smith finds a baby left to him, he cannot understand why, he thinks he would make the worst kind of father. He will find the mother and give the baby Rose back to her. In the meantime, he needs someone to help take care of her. His new sister-in-law recommends Violet as a nanny, Violet comes from a baron’s family, but her father has been imprisoned because of debt and she has run out of options how to take care of herself and pay her father’s debt. Gris and Violet get closer and fall in love while taking care of Rose. I loved how at one point Gris brother said something about Girs’s garden (Violet and Rose). I loved Gris’s brother Fulton and cannot wait to read his story. I have enjoyed all the books in this series and cannot wait for more.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
May 10, 2023
WONDERFUL!!! A Bargain with a Beast by Tammy Andresen is book 4 in the Lords of Temptation series and I am so enjoying this series. Though this book is in a series it can be read as a standalone. Tammy is one of the best authors of today and A Bargain With A Beast did not disappoint. I found this book easy to read, had wonderful characters, had the real feel of the regency era, vivid descriptions, very well written and just a true delight to read. Tammy is defiantly a favorite author of mine. This story has a Lady who’s father is in debtor’s prison and has left her penniless, a Lord who is single yet finds himself with a baby, a sick mother, trying to find the mother, hiring a penniless lady as a nanny, needing to keep her job, knowing he is the father, a brother with a foul mouth, being grumpy all the time, owning a gambling hell, making gin, helping to pay off debts, kindness and falling in love. I am so recommending you read this book. You will just fall in love with Gris, Violet and baby Rose.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
May 9, 2023
Lord Griswold Smith aka Gris is a rough and rugged man who runs a gaming hell and a gin distillery, and Miss Violet Chase, a gentle and kind lady who becomes his temporary nanny when a baby girl is left at his doorstep with a note say he is the father. Gris and Violet are complete opposites, but they soon develop a mutual attraction and respect for each other. However, their budding romance is threatened by the secrets of their pasts and the dangers of their present. Will they be able to overcome the obstacles and find their happily ever after?
This book is the fourth installment in the Lords of Temptation series by Tammy Andresen, but it can be read as a standalone. It is a sweet and steamy read that features a strong hero, a brave heroine, a cute baby, and some suspenseful twists. Fans of historical romance will enjoy this engaging and emotional story. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
This book is the fourth installment in the Lords of Temptation series by Tammy Andresen, but it can be read as a standalone. It is a sweet and steamy read that features a strong hero, a brave heroine, a cute baby, and some suspenseful twists. Fans of historical romance will enjoy this engaging and emotional story. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
April 22, 2023
I loved it! What could be better than two male bachelors faced with a baby found on their doorstep! Lord Griswold finds himself a father and his brother Fulton is not happy at all with new addition to the house. The two bumble along until they can find a nanny. Violet is in a desperate situation and being a nanny to baby Rose is an answer to her prayers. But as Gris and Violet's journey to a happy ever after treading a bumpy path full of twist and turns, trials and tribulations, angst Tammy Andreson stories are always interesting with flawed characters who manage to grow and yet retain their personalities which captivates you from the beginning until the very end. A Bargain with a Beast is a well-written story that has remarkable emotions, witty dialogue and with one enjoyable plot that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next in the Lord of Temptation series.
April 25, 2023
A Bargain With A Beast is a fantastic historical romance by Tammy Andresen. Ms. Andresen has crafted a well-written book populated with an outstanding cast of characters. Lord Griswold Smith doesn't know what to do with a baby, or if it's his. Violet accepts the nanny position and calm and quiet return, much to Gris and his brother's delight. Gris and Violet's story is loaded with drama, humor, heat and a dash of action and suspense. I enjoyed this book from cover to cover. A Bargain With A Beast is book 4 of the Lords of Temptation Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliffhanger.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 11, 2023
Lord Griswold Smith helps run the brothers’ gambling den and distills a fine gin. He’s good at these things. He is not good at taking care of babies, but may have to learn. According to the note on the basket Baby Rose is Gris’s. Volet Chase is desperate for employment since her father, who is in debtors’ prison, has left her to take care of the debt. She takes the job and restores calm to the home. It isn’t long before Gris and Violet a strong attraction for each other. Both have secrets that bring danger close. Will they be able to get past the dangers and have a happy future as a family? This is a quick read with lots happening. There is a bit of a mystery, a couple of rather vile villains, suspense and danger, an adorable baby, a strong, brave, and determined hero and heroine, and a wonderful romance. While on the surface, Gris and Fulton might be beasts, but they are not, and they both prove it.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
May 10, 2023
A Bargain With a Beast by Tammy Andresen was a quick and enjoyable read. It is part of a series, but this is the first book I read in it. I have to say I think she did a great job of making it easy to pick up mid-series. I’m sure there were some Easter eggs I probably missed, but I really liked Gris and Violet’s story.
I’m not always a fan of the beauty and the beast trope, but I appreciated Tammy’s take on it. I also like that Violet was her own woman. Yes, she found herself in a difficult situation, but there was no “woe is me” feeling about her. I adored Gris’s protective nature, and I enjoyed his character progression. I’m leaning toward going back and reading the previous books in the series.
I received an ARC. The opinions expressed above are my own.
I’m not always a fan of the beauty and the beast trope, but I appreciated Tammy’s take on it. I also like that Violet was her own woman. Yes, she found herself in a difficult situation, but there was no “woe is me” feeling about her. I adored Gris’s protective nature, and I enjoyed his character progression. I’m leaning toward going back and reading the previous books in the series.
I received an ARC. The opinions expressed above are my own.
May 15, 2023
complex problems rational hero and heroine
Tammy Andresen writes concise stories with series wide arcs but also individual stories in each well crafted book. They are easy to read, very enjoyable romances, with emotionally complex heroes and heroines. Gris has daddy issues like the rest of his brothers and self worth concerns. Violet’s father left her penniless and at the mercy of corrupt men who she’s attempted to hide from. And then there’s the illegitimate baby girl that Gris is responsible for. This story ties up all their loose ends neatly and kindly. It’s a happy ending. And oh those Smith brothers! I have a question is the Duke of Upton and Anna destined for each other?
Tammy Andresen writes concise stories with series wide arcs but also individual stories in each well crafted book. They are easy to read, very enjoyable romances, with emotionally complex heroes and heroines. Gris has daddy issues like the rest of his brothers and self worth concerns. Violet’s father left her penniless and at the mercy of corrupt men who she’s attempted to hide from. And then there’s the illegitimate baby girl that Gris is responsible for. This story ties up all their loose ends neatly and kindly. It’s a happy ending. And oh those Smith brothers! I have a question is the Duke of Upton and Anna destined for each other?
May 18, 2025
Gris gets the surprise of his life when his brother wakes him to a crying baby. Oh and this little baby girl Rose is his said the note pinned to her blanket. He has to find a nanny and the baby’s mother fast. He isn’t a father figure. He’s a b@sterd by birth along with his siblings.
Hiring Violet for the job helps her and him at the same time. I loved how he is a big grumpy looking man but has a wounded heart of gold. Having his father’s words stuck in his head which make him doubt his intentions towards Violet. She is the best woman for him since she goes after what she wants after she’s committed. The addition of baby Rose and the unfolding of how Gris is truly amazing to his own eyes is brought about is heartwarming.
Hiring Violet for the job helps her and him at the same time. I loved how he is a big grumpy looking man but has a wounded heart of gold. Having his father’s words stuck in his head which make him doubt his intentions towards Violet. She is the best woman for him since she goes after what she wants after she’s committed. The addition of baby Rose and the unfolding of how Gris is truly amazing to his own eyes is brought about is heartwarming.
April 10, 2023
A Bargain with a Beast
Another favourite from Author Tammy Andresen who has written such a great series with all these Smith men. Each character is believable, supporting characters blend in, while the reader is patiently waiting for the next book.
Lord Griswold Smith paired with so many women all at once most importantly little Rose, while finding his nanny Violet who had been badly done by her father, to be the lady he wants in his life.
Heartwarming pages when Gris finally finds the mother of Rose, with Violet making the ultimate sacrifice.
Huge page turner.
Highly recommend all in this series
More to come ☺️
Another favourite from Author Tammy Andresen who has written such a great series with all these Smith men. Each character is believable, supporting characters blend in, while the reader is patiently waiting for the next book.
Lord Griswold Smith paired with so many women all at once most importantly little Rose, while finding his nanny Violet who had been badly done by her father, to be the lady he wants in his life.
Heartwarming pages when Gris finally finds the mother of Rose, with Violet making the ultimate sacrifice.
Huge page turner.
Highly recommend all in this series
More to come ☺️
June 18, 2023
This is my first book from the author and I find this short and fast-paced, but it did not fail to be heartwarming and bittersweet at the same time. The first part gave a Three Men and a Baby vibe—sans one man (& if set in the 19th century). But as the story progressed it was slowly turning into a fluffy kind of love story. I’m not complaining, really, but I just can’t help but think that this particular development seems too good to be true. And since it’s what I am here for I am thankful it’s what I got from this. Nonetheless this makes a perfect read to add another book in your reading challenge at a quick.
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