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The Wagers of Sin #4
Fortune Favors the Viscount
There’s no such thing as luck…
Once a lady, reduced to a governess, Emilia Greene is desperate. The child in her care has been left orphaned and penniless, and Emilia will do anything to protect her—even track down the girl’s only relation. That man would be the next Viscount Sydenham, and surely he’ll be gentleman enough to take care of his cousin.
Or scruples…
Unfortunately, that man is Nicholas Dashwood, the dangerously attractive owner of the notorious Vega Club. He’s no gentleman, and he doesn’t want a title. What Nick needs… is a governess, for his younger sister.
When your heart is at stake
Their precarious bargain throws them together in unsettling proximity, until neither can deny their attraction to each other. But Nick has enemies, and Emilia has secrets, and taking a gamble on happily-ever-after could cost them everything.
Once a lady, reduced to a governess, Emilia Greene is desperate. The child in her care has been left orphaned and penniless, and Emilia will do anything to protect her—even track down the girl’s only relation. That man would be the next Viscount Sydenham, and surely he’ll be gentleman enough to take care of his cousin.
Or scruples…
Unfortunately, that man is Nicholas Dashwood, the dangerously attractive owner of the notorious Vega Club. He’s no gentleman, and he doesn’t want a title. What Nick needs… is a governess, for his younger sister.
When your heart is at stake
Their precarious bargain throws them together in unsettling proximity, until neither can deny their attraction to each other. But Nick has enemies, and Emilia has secrets, and taking a gamble on happily-ever-after could cost them everything.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2023
72 people are currently reading
2533 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Linden
53 books1,707 followersCaroline Linden was born a reader, not a writer. She earned a degree in mathematics from Harvard University and worked as a programmer in the financial services industry before realizing writing fiction is much more exciting than writing code. Her books have won the NEC-RWA Readers' Choice Award, the JNRW Golden Leaf, the Daphne du Maurier Award, and RWA's RITA Award, and have been translated into seventeen languages around the world. She lives in New England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
February 9, 2026
Read: 2/5/26
Setting: Regency England
Trope: governess, class differences
This was probably my least favorite book in the series, but the bar was high.
notes:
liked:
1. I think some of my problem was that Nicholas was such a good guy and it threw me for a loop. I was expecting a gaming hell owner to be more of a rogue, not this man who took care of everyone around him. Once the story got going, I fell in love with Nicholas. He was also had brilliant plan on how to deal with the villains.
2. Emilia is pretty incredible! She tracks Nicholas down with all her research to info him that he is the next Viscount. She does such a thorough job that even his lawyers are impressed. Brave Emilia gave up a life of privilege to be a governess and later fell in love with her last charge. Now, she will do anything to protect her from the girl's evil guardian. You can't help but admire the lengths she'll go to save the ones she loves.
3. The romance was sweet and very organic. That whole employee-employer situation can be tricky. So, Nicholas let's Emilia be the one to initiate anything sexual.
5. .The villains were interesting additions.
dislike:
1. I hate perfect kids in books and movies. Both Emilia's charge and Nicholas's sister are extremely well behaved. No complaining (or not long) and they go where they are told. Boring!
Conclusion: I really enjoyed this story.
Setting: Regency England
Trope: governess, class differences
This was probably my least favorite book in the series, but the bar was high.
notes:
liked:
1. I think some of my problem was that Nicholas was such a good guy and it threw me for a loop. I was expecting a gaming hell owner to be more of a rogue, not this man who took care of everyone around him. Once the story got going, I fell in love with Nicholas. He was also had brilliant plan on how to deal with the villains.
2. Emilia is pretty incredible! She tracks Nicholas down with all her research to info him that he is the next Viscount. She does such a thorough job that even his lawyers are impressed. Brave Emilia gave up a life of privilege to be a governess and later fell in love with her last charge. Now, she will do anything to protect her from the girl's evil guardian. You can't help but admire the lengths she'll go to save the ones she loves.
3. The romance was sweet and very organic. That whole employee-employer situation can be tricky. So, Nicholas let's Emilia be the one to initiate anything sexual.
5. .The villains were interesting additions.
dislike:
1. I hate perfect kids in books and movies. Both Emilia's charge and Nicholas's sister are extremely well behaved. No complaining (or not long) and they go where they are told. Boring!
Conclusion: I really enjoyed this story.
June 21, 2023
Barbara’s rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars
Series: Wagers of Sin #4
Publication Date: 6/27/23
Period: Regency London
Number of Pages: 390
Oh! My! Goodness!! When you have - A desperate, but smart, brave, and determined governess; a sweet, lovely, delightful, but abused orphan; a gaming-club owner who disdains society and certainly has no desire to ever be an aristocrat; and a sinfully rich and powerful villain who is reviled by all of society – you also have a wonderful story to tell. This excellently written, well-paced book is the result of that combination and I definitely recommend it.
Our desperate governess, Emilia (Millie) Green, is just that – desperate. Desperate to keep a roof over their heads and desperate to protect her young charge, Lucinda (Lucy) who was woefully abused and neglected by her father, Viscount Sydenham. Lucy’s father has even managed to abuse her from the grave by naming Baron Fitchley as her guardian. Emilia will do anything to protect Lucy and that is why she has spent the last several months desperately researching the lineage of Viscount Sydenham hoping – praying – to find an heir as there are currently no known descendants of the line. The title will go into abeyance and the properties to the crown if an heir isn’t found. Emilia has finally found the only heir and she intends to share her research with him. Surely, someone in his circumstances would leap at the chance to become a member of the peerage. Wouldn’t they?
Nicholas (Nick) Dashwood is a rich, handsome, self-made man who owns a gaming club and thoroughly disdains aristocrats. He’s seen them gamble away their fortunes and their homes as well as being involved in all sorts of debauchery. Why in the world would that little termagant who breached the protected walls of his club ever think she could convince him, of all people, that he was, or would want to be, an aristocrat? Never going to happen in his lifetime!
As I started to read, I immediately became invested in the characters, their lives, and the desperate circumstances of Lucy and Emilia. I have long been a fan of Nick who has been so instrumental in helping others in the series find their HEAs, so I was just tickled pink to have him find his own. With such awful families to overcome, it is hard to see how both Nick and Emilia became the caring individuals they are. The attraction was immediate, but the romance was a bit of a slow burn – which was perfect for the situation. The vile and nasty villain got his proper punishment and I was so happy to see that. Then, there were some lovely cameo appearances by characters from some of those previous books and it was nice to have a visit with them.
Yes, it was a lovely read and I can definitely recommend it. It is part of a wonderful series, and I highly recommend that as well, but this can be read as a total standalone should you wish to do so. I had thought this was the last book in the series, but with the way a certain character was shown, I have to wonder if maybe there will be more books in this series – or if that character will begin a new series. I guess we’ll just have to wait to find out.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Wagers of Sin #4
Publication Date: 6/27/23
Period: Regency London
Number of Pages: 390
Oh! My! Goodness!! When you have - A desperate, but smart, brave, and determined governess; a sweet, lovely, delightful, but abused orphan; a gaming-club owner who disdains society and certainly has no desire to ever be an aristocrat; and a sinfully rich and powerful villain who is reviled by all of society – you also have a wonderful story to tell. This excellently written, well-paced book is the result of that combination and I definitely recommend it.
Our desperate governess, Emilia (Millie) Green, is just that – desperate. Desperate to keep a roof over their heads and desperate to protect her young charge, Lucinda (Lucy) who was woefully abused and neglected by her father, Viscount Sydenham. Lucy’s father has even managed to abuse her from the grave by naming Baron Fitchley as her guardian. Emilia will do anything to protect Lucy and that is why she has spent the last several months desperately researching the lineage of Viscount Sydenham hoping – praying – to find an heir as there are currently no known descendants of the line. The title will go into abeyance and the properties to the crown if an heir isn’t found. Emilia has finally found the only heir and she intends to share her research with him. Surely, someone in his circumstances would leap at the chance to become a member of the peerage. Wouldn’t they?
Nicholas (Nick) Dashwood is a rich, handsome, self-made man who owns a gaming club and thoroughly disdains aristocrats. He’s seen them gamble away their fortunes and their homes as well as being involved in all sorts of debauchery. Why in the world would that little termagant who breached the protected walls of his club ever think she could convince him, of all people, that he was, or would want to be, an aristocrat? Never going to happen in his lifetime!
As I started to read, I immediately became invested in the characters, their lives, and the desperate circumstances of Lucy and Emilia. I have long been a fan of Nick who has been so instrumental in helping others in the series find their HEAs, so I was just tickled pink to have him find his own. With such awful families to overcome, it is hard to see how both Nick and Emilia became the caring individuals they are. The attraction was immediate, but the romance was a bit of a slow burn – which was perfect for the situation. The vile and nasty villain got his proper punishment and I was so happy to see that. Then, there were some lovely cameo appearances by characters from some of those previous books and it was nice to have a visit with them.
Yes, it was a lovely read and I can definitely recommend it. It is part of a wonderful series, and I highly recommend that as well, but this can be read as a total standalone should you wish to do so. I had thought this was the last book in the series, but with the way a certain character was shown, I have to wonder if maybe there will be more books in this series – or if that character will begin a new series. I guess we’ll just have to wait to find out.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 16, 2025
3 meh ⭐️⭐️⭐️
My least favorite of the series. It’s was cute but nothing stood out and tomorrow I will have forgotten all about it.
Should you read it? Probably not. It’s sweet but forgettable
My least favorite of the series. It’s was cute but nothing stood out and tomorrow I will have forgotten all about it.
Should you read it? Probably not. It’s sweet but forgettable
May 30, 2023
Emilia Greene is desperate to protect a child in her care that has been left orphaned and penniless. She has tracked down the girl’s only relation and is willing to help him claim his title if he’ll provide for his young cousin. Unfortunately, Nicholas Dashwood, a notorious club owner, is no gentleman and doesn’t want a title. What Nick needs is a favor…Can the two make a bargain without wagering their hearts?
This is the fourth book in the Wagers of Sin series. Nick is the owner of the Vega Club, which features in the other stories. This book works as a stand alone, but the other couples make a small appearance.
The storytelling was great and I read most of the book in one day. It jumps right into action, with Emilia approaching Nick with an offer she believes he cannot refuse. But refuse he does…at least initially. I found these characters immensely likable and believed in their chemistry. I thought there were some interesting secrets and I liked how their individual pasts were revealed. This book is definitely a keeper.
Tropes: Governess, Spinster, Anti-Hero, Unexpected Title, Forced Proximity, Protector-ish
Steam: 3 (four scenes, but on the shorter side)
* I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
This is the fourth book in the Wagers of Sin series. Nick is the owner of the Vega Club, which features in the other stories. This book works as a stand alone, but the other couples make a small appearance.
The storytelling was great and I read most of the book in one day. It jumps right into action, with Emilia approaching Nick with an offer she believes he cannot refuse. But refuse he does…at least initially. I found these characters immensely likable and believed in their chemistry. I thought there were some interesting secrets and I liked how their individual pasts were revealed. This book is definitely a keeper.
Tropes: Governess, Spinster, Anti-Hero, Unexpected Title, Forced Proximity, Protector-ish
Steam: 3 (four scenes, but on the shorter side)
* I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
August 21, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 stars.
➕ What I liked :
A tiny bit of a “older” heroine. (27)
Rather interesting main characters.
Kind of interesting side characters.
(Mostly the heroes sister and the heroines ward?.)
The bond between the hero and his sister and the heroine and the child she was unofficially a guardian to, so her ward?… but also the bond between the two young girls... and the hero and the young girls.)
Interesting plot.
Strong heroine.
Good and caring hero…. Even if he seems like he is a little tiny bit of a anti-hero in the beginning of the story… that soon changes.
Good romance/romantic build-up and chemistry.
Good steam.
The heroine is not a willfully ignorant or naive heroine.
None of the main characters obsess or objectify about each others looks.
They of course admired/appreciated each others looks…. But they also see and appreciative and value each others traits and worth etc. in other ways...… like liking that the other person is brave, clever, loving, strong etc. etc.
The villain got his comeuppance.
➖ What I disliked:
The character description/visual appearance for the heroine was a little bit on the vague side.
(The little info there is suggests she is built a little bit on the curvy side and there is some little info about her hair and eye color but not much more…. The hero is described much better or/and in more detail)
The character description/visual appearance/character choice about the hero was formulaic.
(The hero is tall... muscular… and very handsome.)
A little lacking in depth about both main characters.
(A little more depth to the main characters would have been great.)
Sensitive issues/topics are more or less glossed over....and so is the ramifications/after-effect from being a victim of them.
(Physical abuse, childhood trauma, emotional abuse, neglect,psychological abuse, ptsd from abuse, etc.)
July 2, 2023
It’s Caroline Linden so it’s almost guaranteed I’m going to love it. Linden’s Wagers series was a favorite of mine so I enjoyed getting to step back into that world again and revisit the enigmatic Dashwood and see what woman Linden had lined up for him. She did not disappoint! I thought Emilia was a courageous, fun, loving character who I’d want for a friend. She pulls Dashwood out of the shadows of the Vega Club and teaches him about family.
There weren’t crazy misunderstandings in this book. Rather it was a journey of self-discovery for both characters and the young girls in this tale added depth and tenderness. There was time spent in London and the country, some wagers and some family time, and some trademark Linden spice. It delivered for me on all levels and I thought it wrapped up the series quite nicely, especially with Georgiana, Eliza, and Sophie making an appearance—Emilia would fit right in!
Recommended! I did receive an ARC copy of this novel…but that’s because I love CL! :)
There weren’t crazy misunderstandings in this book. Rather it was a journey of self-discovery for both characters and the young girls in this tale added depth and tenderness. There was time spent in London and the country, some wagers and some family time, and some trademark Linden spice. It delivered for me on all levels and I thought it wrapped up the series quite nicely, especially with Georgiana, Eliza, and Sophie making an appearance—Emilia would fit right in!
Recommended! I did receive an ARC copy of this novel…but that’s because I love CL! :)
September 29, 2025
3 meh ⭐️⭐️⭐️
My least favorite of the series. It’s was cute but nothing stood out and tomorrow I will have forgotten all about it.
Should you read it? Probably not. It’s sweet but forgettable
My least favorite of the series. It’s was cute but nothing stood out and tomorrow I will have forgotten all about it.
Should you read it? Probably not. It’s sweet but forgettable
September 6, 2024
3 stars.
😴😴😴😴🥱🥱🥱🥱🥱 So mediocre, so boring. If I had time to find something else to listen to today, I would have DNFd this. I’m sad too because I actually did like the other books in this series and many by this author in the past. Hope this was a fluke.
Also, the narrator was just… not great. Although I’ve listened to other books narrated by her and never had these thoughts before now. Maybe it’s just this story that mostly sucked.
Safe
Virgin 27 y/o heroine who took absolutely no precautions to avoid pregnancy when she decides to sleep with her hero, it’s not even mentioned 🙄
Non manwhore hero with few mentions of his past
No drama or scenes with OM/OW
No cheating
😴😴😴😴🥱🥱🥱🥱🥱 So mediocre, so boring. If I had time to find something else to listen to today, I would have DNFd this. I’m sad too because I actually did like the other books in this series and many by this author in the past. Hope this was a fluke.
Also, the narrator was just… not great. Although I’ve listened to other books narrated by her and never had these thoughts before now. Maybe it’s just this story that mostly sucked.
Safe
Virgin 27 y/o heroine who took absolutely no precautions to avoid pregnancy when she decides to sleep with her hero, it’s not even mentioned 🙄
Non manwhore hero with few mentions of his past
No drama or scenes with OM/OW
No cheating
September 13, 2023
I've given this an A- for narration and a B for content at AudioGals.
In Fortune Favors the Viscount, the final book in Caroline Linden’s The Wagers of Sin series, Nicholas Dashwood, the owner of the Vega Club – featured in the other books in the series – finally meets his match in the form of a resourceful young woman who barges her way into the club one morning in order to present him with some life-changing information. I’m a big fan of both author and narrator, so I settled in to enjoy the listen, and I did, although I can’t say I found it quite as compelling as some of the author’s other books.
When we first meet governess Emilia Greene, she’s fortifying herself with a swig of brandy as she looks at the frontage of the notorious Vega club through the grimy window of a hired hackney. It’s early morning, so all the club’s patrons have departed and she knows that if her plan is to stand any chance of success, it’s now or never. One final mouthful of brandy and she exits the cab, and is surprised when she finds the front door open. When she enters, she’s challenged by an imposing man who tells her the club is closed; Emilia draws on her experience on the imperious ladies of the ton and pointedly asks to be taken to see Mr. Nicholas Dashwood at once. Despite repeated refusals Emilia stands her ground – she has very good reason to – and is eventually admitted into Mr. Dashwood’s presence.
Nick is not at all interested in what this audacious young woman might have to say – he’s heard it all, several times over – but when she does come to the point, he has to admit that she was telling the truth when she told him he’d never heard a proposition like hers. After a brief excursion through his family tree, she drops the bombshell at its conclusion – he is the new Viscount Sydenham.
Dashwood’s reaction takes Emilia by surprise. She’d expected some enthusiasm, perhaps, or at least some degree of interest, but he is dismissive and shocks her when he tells her he doesn’t want to claim the title. Emilia can sense things getting away from her and redoubles her efforts to persuade him, offering to help him pursue the claim, pointing out he has a duty to claim the title – but he is unmoved. Nicholas is also no fool, and can sense that Emilia has some other motive for bringing this matter to him and he wants to know what it is; with some reluctance, Emilia explains that the previous viscount left his nine-year-old daughter, Lucinda, completely unprovided for, and if Nicholas doesn’t assume the title and it goes into abeyance, she will be destitute. To her dismay, he repeats his refusal and tells her to go home.
Nick has no love for the aristocracy. He’s seen too many irresponsible gentlemen gambling away their homes and fortunes and indulging in all kinds of debauchery to become to want to become a member of it, and besides, he likes his life perfectly well the way it is. But he can’t deny that the very attractive Miss Greene is possessed of the qualities he’s always admired in a woman – determination, passion and intelligence – or that, had her request not been so very outrageous, he might have been charmed enough to give in. He decides to do some investigating of his own, and is even more intrigued when he discovers that Miss Greene is actually Miss Greenborough, the niece of the Earl of Harlow, and that, for reasons he doesn’t yet know, has eschewed a life of ease in favour of becoming a governess.
It’s not until a few days later that Nick starts to realise that perhaps there may be some advantages to becoming a peer of the realm that he hadn’t considered. His fifteen-year-old ward is growing up fast, and his position as a viscount would definitely ease her way into society – plus she is going to need someone to guide her as she prepares to enter it. Miss Greene would be the ideal person to do that, and both she and her nine-year-old charge would also provide Charlotte with regular company. He sends for Emilia and suggests they wager on a game of cards. If she wins, he will examine her evidence carefully and proceed with the claim – but she will owe him a favour (not that sort of favour!); if he wins, she will burn every scrap of evidence in her possession and he will settle five thousand pounds on Lucinda. Nervous, but determined, Emilia wagers. And wins.
What follows is a character-driven, slow-burn romance as Emilia and Lucy move into Nick’s household so that Emilia can act as governess to both girls, and the attraction that has been simmering between Nick and Emilia since they met starts to heat up. Nick learns more about Emilia’s background – that she’d left her family in order to avoid marriage to Lord Fitchley, a man widely reviled throughout society – and also that he’s the reason Emilia was so desperate to persuade Nick to claim the title, as the previous Lord Sydenham had named Fitchley as Lucy’s guardian. I liked Nick a great deal – he’s a thoroughly decent man who has cultivated a reputation for aloofness but who cares deeply for those closest to him, and Emilia is a great match for him; she’s brave, shrewd and clever and, like Nick, dedicated to doing the best she can for those she cares for. But the problem with both of them being so very nice is that the story depends entirely on external elements for conflict. There’s a little bit of ‘I can’t have her because she works for me’ on Nick’s part, and I was pleased at the way Emilia is so no-nonsense about removing any barriers to their relationship, but otherwise, it’s down to Fitchley to supply the drama. He makes a despicable villain and, thanks to Nick, meets more than his just desserts by the end, but while I’m no fan of the drama for drama’s sake, the lack of any real conflict in the romance made it difficult for me to completely invest in it.
Beverley A. Crick is someone I always enjoy listening to; her performances are always well-paced, expressive and strongly characterised, and she brings out the gentle humour in this story with a deft touch. Her portrayal of the two leads is excellent; her heroes always sound attractively masculine and I especially liked the way she conveys the desperation and vulnerability lying beneath Emilia’s no-nonsense exterior. Their deepening connection is nicely realised, with a real warmth in their exchanges and an undeniable affection coming through in Ms. Crick’s voice. The secondary cast is clearly differentiated and well portrayed, too – the nasal drawl she gives Fitchley makes him sound suitably villainous, and the two girls sound age-appropriate and are easy to tell apart. As always, Ms. Crick delivers on the emotional content of the story and crafts a beautifully nuanced performance overall.
Fortune Favors the Viscount is a charming, slow-burn love story that should be on the radar of any historical romance fan.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals .
In Fortune Favors the Viscount, the final book in Caroline Linden’s The Wagers of Sin series, Nicholas Dashwood, the owner of the Vega Club – featured in the other books in the series – finally meets his match in the form of a resourceful young woman who barges her way into the club one morning in order to present him with some life-changing information. I’m a big fan of both author and narrator, so I settled in to enjoy the listen, and I did, although I can’t say I found it quite as compelling as some of the author’s other books.
When we first meet governess Emilia Greene, she’s fortifying herself with a swig of brandy as she looks at the frontage of the notorious Vega club through the grimy window of a hired hackney. It’s early morning, so all the club’s patrons have departed and she knows that if her plan is to stand any chance of success, it’s now or never. One final mouthful of brandy and she exits the cab, and is surprised when she finds the front door open. When she enters, she’s challenged by an imposing man who tells her the club is closed; Emilia draws on her experience on the imperious ladies of the ton and pointedly asks to be taken to see Mr. Nicholas Dashwood at once. Despite repeated refusals Emilia stands her ground – she has very good reason to – and is eventually admitted into Mr. Dashwood’s presence.
Nick is not at all interested in what this audacious young woman might have to say – he’s heard it all, several times over – but when she does come to the point, he has to admit that she was telling the truth when she told him he’d never heard a proposition like hers. After a brief excursion through his family tree, she drops the bombshell at its conclusion – he is the new Viscount Sydenham.
Dashwood’s reaction takes Emilia by surprise. She’d expected some enthusiasm, perhaps, or at least some degree of interest, but he is dismissive and shocks her when he tells her he doesn’t want to claim the title. Emilia can sense things getting away from her and redoubles her efforts to persuade him, offering to help him pursue the claim, pointing out he has a duty to claim the title – but he is unmoved. Nicholas is also no fool, and can sense that Emilia has some other motive for bringing this matter to him and he wants to know what it is; with some reluctance, Emilia explains that the previous viscount left his nine-year-old daughter, Lucinda, completely unprovided for, and if Nicholas doesn’t assume the title and it goes into abeyance, she will be destitute. To her dismay, he repeats his refusal and tells her to go home.
Nick has no love for the aristocracy. He’s seen too many irresponsible gentlemen gambling away their homes and fortunes and indulging in all kinds of debauchery to become to want to become a member of it, and besides, he likes his life perfectly well the way it is. But he can’t deny that the very attractive Miss Greene is possessed of the qualities he’s always admired in a woman – determination, passion and intelligence – or that, had her request not been so very outrageous, he might have been charmed enough to give in. He decides to do some investigating of his own, and is even more intrigued when he discovers that Miss Greene is actually Miss Greenborough, the niece of the Earl of Harlow, and that, for reasons he doesn’t yet know, has eschewed a life of ease in favour of becoming a governess.
It’s not until a few days later that Nick starts to realise that perhaps there may be some advantages to becoming a peer of the realm that he hadn’t considered. His fifteen-year-old ward is growing up fast, and his position as a viscount would definitely ease her way into society – plus she is going to need someone to guide her as she prepares to enter it. Miss Greene would be the ideal person to do that, and both she and her nine-year-old charge would also provide Charlotte with regular company. He sends for Emilia and suggests they wager on a game of cards. If she wins, he will examine her evidence carefully and proceed with the claim – but she will owe him a favour (not that sort of favour!); if he wins, she will burn every scrap of evidence in her possession and he will settle five thousand pounds on Lucinda. Nervous, but determined, Emilia wagers. And wins.
What follows is a character-driven, slow-burn romance as Emilia and Lucy move into Nick’s household so that Emilia can act as governess to both girls, and the attraction that has been simmering between Nick and Emilia since they met starts to heat up. Nick learns more about Emilia’s background – that she’d left her family in order to avoid marriage to Lord Fitchley, a man widely reviled throughout society – and also that he’s the reason Emilia was so desperate to persuade Nick to claim the title, as the previous Lord Sydenham had named Fitchley as Lucy’s guardian. I liked Nick a great deal – he’s a thoroughly decent man who has cultivated a reputation for aloofness but who cares deeply for those closest to him, and Emilia is a great match for him; she’s brave, shrewd and clever and, like Nick, dedicated to doing the best she can for those she cares for. But the problem with both of them being so very nice is that the story depends entirely on external elements for conflict. There’s a little bit of ‘I can’t have her because she works for me’ on Nick’s part, and I was pleased at the way Emilia is so no-nonsense about removing any barriers to their relationship, but otherwise, it’s down to Fitchley to supply the drama. He makes a despicable villain and, thanks to Nick, meets more than his just desserts by the end, but while I’m no fan of the drama for drama’s sake, the lack of any real conflict in the romance made it difficult for me to completely invest in it.
Beverley A. Crick is someone I always enjoy listening to; her performances are always well-paced, expressive and strongly characterised, and she brings out the gentle humour in this story with a deft touch. Her portrayal of the two leads is excellent; her heroes always sound attractively masculine and I especially liked the way she conveys the desperation and vulnerability lying beneath Emilia’s no-nonsense exterior. Their deepening connection is nicely realised, with a real warmth in their exchanges and an undeniable affection coming through in Ms. Crick’s voice. The secondary cast is clearly differentiated and well portrayed, too – the nasal drawl she gives Fitchley makes him sound suitably villainous, and the two girls sound age-appropriate and are easy to tell apart. As always, Ms. Crick delivers on the emotional content of the story and crafts a beautifully nuanced performance overall.
Fortune Favors the Viscount is a charming, slow-burn love story that should be on the radar of any historical romance fan.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals .
December 6, 2024
Nicholas "Nick" Dashwood is busy running his sexy gambling club when Emilia Green, governess to the downtrodden, shows up with a "daring proposition": be the next Viscount of Sydenham. After some Intense Eye Contact and one (1) card wager, he accepts on the condition that she also govern his downtrodden little sister. In the course of governessing and Additional Intense Eye Contact, they fall into mad feelings for one another! CUE BONERS, and also FAMILY FEELINGS.
1. The whole "Nick is a DANGEROUS SCOUNDREL" thing was laughable icing when faced with the relatively emotionally mature hero actually at the center of thing. Like, he's still standoffish about a lot of shit, at least until there's a modicum of trust between him and Emilia, and then he communicates like an actual adult human. My extended metaphor for Nick is: an angel food cake that's a little crusty on the outside but all light sponge on the inside.
2. Emilia was slightly less well drawn in that her driving motivation is the orphaned, abused daughter of her dead previous employer. This isn't a bad motivating driver at all, necessarily, but it is kind of a floppy one. Especially because the book opens with her being basically destitute and therefore desperately appealing to Nick to take up his legacy as Viscount ... in order to protect Lucy. It starts of being a little bit financial, and then it's most about the Baron's alleged legal claim to her, but then it gets really messy when it's later revealed that Emilia.........is 6 months away from inheriting some undefined Shit Load of Money. So it's not exactly clear to me why Emilia did anything.
3. Other why she did Nick: I got that, and I must offer Linden some props for the absolute tight handling of that particular plot point. Emilia initiates one kiss that escalates quickly (perhaps a little too quickly), Nick says "Listen I'm DOWN TO CLOWN but will initiate nothing because of the power differential present in our employment situation" and Emilia's like "OK, I quit; let's away to POUNDTOWN" and that's how you do. I was pleasantly surprised that we didn't have just scads of pages of moping! Nice!
3.5 HOWEVER, there was some lagging in the 'I should not lust for MY EMPLOYER' narrative whinging that got pretty annoying before the kiss. (Honestly, I think think there were sections of this book that probably just ... wrote better than others? I.e., sections that came more naturally vs. some areas where the plot kind of churned. The bits between the wager and the baron showing up, and after their return to London were some of those messier, less poppy sections.)
3.6 Tied to the above: the whole thing about the Baron's evil deeds and how Nick exposed him was....not super intuitive to me? It felt like the strangest exposition dump ever just kind of crammed into the back half of this thing, and it didn't feel super necessary for me to get the details on a jockey and some other lord and a previously dramatic horse race from some months ago like that.
4. The children were fine!
5. Sir Chester is a star!
6. For all my monologing: I did enjoy this! I truly did like how much Nick and Emilia decided they were partners and then proved that they were partners. From coming forward with Important Backstory Shit promptly to what to share with Charlotte and Lucy to admitting Emotions, it was nice to have these two characters choose to be nice to one another! Because they like each other! And that was really quite delightful.
7. 3.5 stars, rounding up.
1. The whole "Nick is a DANGEROUS SCOUNDREL" thing was laughable icing when faced with the relatively emotionally mature hero actually at the center of thing. Like, he's still standoffish about a lot of shit, at least until there's a modicum of trust between him and Emilia, and then he communicates like an actual adult human. My extended metaphor for Nick is: an angel food cake that's a little crusty on the outside but all light sponge on the inside.
2. Emilia was slightly less well drawn in that her driving motivation is the orphaned, abused daughter of her dead previous employer. This isn't a bad motivating driver at all, necessarily, but it is kind of a floppy one. Especially because the book opens with her being basically destitute and therefore desperately appealing to Nick to take up his legacy as Viscount ... in order to protect Lucy. It starts of being a little bit financial, and then it's most about the Baron's alleged legal claim to her, but then it gets really messy when it's later revealed that Emilia.........is 6 months away from inheriting some undefined Shit Load of Money. So it's not exactly clear to me why Emilia did anything.
3. Other why she did Nick: I got that, and I must offer Linden some props for the absolute tight handling of that particular plot point. Emilia initiates one kiss that escalates quickly (perhaps a little too quickly), Nick says "Listen I'm DOWN TO CLOWN but will initiate nothing because of the power differential present in our employment situation" and Emilia's like "OK, I quit; let's away to POUNDTOWN" and that's how you do. I was pleasantly surprised that we didn't have just scads of pages of moping! Nice!
3.5 HOWEVER, there was some lagging in the 'I should not lust for MY EMPLOYER' narrative whinging that got pretty annoying before the kiss. (Honestly, I think think there were sections of this book that probably just ... wrote better than others? I.e., sections that came more naturally vs. some areas where the plot kind of churned. The bits between the wager and the baron showing up, and after their return to London were some of those messier, less poppy sections.)
3.6 Tied to the above: the whole thing about the Baron's evil deeds and how Nick exposed him was....not super intuitive to me? It felt like the strangest exposition dump ever just kind of crammed into the back half of this thing, and it didn't feel super necessary for me to get the details on a jockey and some other lord and a previously dramatic horse race from some months ago like that.
4. The children were fine!
5. Sir Chester is a star!
6. For all my monologing: I did enjoy this! I truly did like how much Nick and Emilia decided they were partners and then proved that they were partners. From coming forward with Important Backstory Shit promptly to what to share with Charlotte and Lucy to admitting Emotions, it was nice to have these two characters choose to be nice to one another! Because they like each other! And that was really quite delightful.
7. 3.5 stars, rounding up.
March 9, 2025
4/4.5
I’m making up ratings as I go along!
I enjoyed this, not as much as some people, but I did enjoy it. It didn’t quite feel “deep enough” for a gambling hell/running from her past heroine- story. I feel like those stories need to dig a bit deeper. This felt pretty light all the way through. Which can be a good thing! This review is nonsensical- in any case, I recommend it as an entertaining, mostly light gambling hell romance.
I’m making up ratings as I go along!
I enjoyed this, not as much as some people, but I did enjoy it. It didn’t quite feel “deep enough” for a gambling hell/running from her past heroine- story. I feel like those stories need to dig a bit deeper. This felt pretty light all the way through. Which can be a good thing! This review is nonsensical- in any case, I recommend it as an entertaining, mostly light gambling hell romance.
January 12, 2024
The time it took me to read this isn't indicative of my enjoyment because I really liked this! I thought Nick and Emilia were a perfect pairing and I was rooting for them from the beginning.
The found family aspect was also lovely, and I am always a sucker for that kind of thing.
Overall, this was a fun series and I like Linden's writing.
The found family aspect was also lovely, and I am always a sucker for that kind of thing.
Overall, this was a fun series and I like Linden's writing.
February 2, 2025
4.5 stars to round out a really enjoyable series.
Nick Dashwood is the owner of the Vega Club gaming hell, an establishment he keeps entirely above board and has a reputation for every member paying their debts. When Emilia Greene walks into his club one day, he isn't prepared for either her or the news she delivers: he's the last in line to claim a Viscountancy, and she's got all the lineage and paperwork to prove it. All Emilia wants is for Nick to offer protection to his cousin, her charge as a governess, whose father the late Viscount treated abominably. Nick agrees, but only because his half-sister deserves a better life than what he can provide her without the title. A lot of money tied up in trust makes Emilia a target for dangerous men, and it's Nick's first instinct to protect his new family.
Nick Dashwood has been a staple in the previous three books, so I was delighted that his was book 4. There's a little danger and a bit of plotting, but the conflict is primarily external to the relationship, which makes it feel almost cozy! I really enjoyed this series, and this is the perfect nightcap for it, featuring Linden's signature well-developed characters and plots with enough historical references to politics of the time to make this reader happy.
Nick Dashwood is the owner of the Vega Club gaming hell, an establishment he keeps entirely above board and has a reputation for every member paying their debts. When Emilia Greene walks into his club one day, he isn't prepared for either her or the news she delivers: he's the last in line to claim a Viscountancy, and she's got all the lineage and paperwork to prove it. All Emilia wants is for Nick to offer protection to his cousin, her charge as a governess, whose father the late Viscount treated abominably. Nick agrees, but only because his half-sister deserves a better life than what he can provide her without the title. A lot of money tied up in trust makes Emilia a target for dangerous men, and it's Nick's first instinct to protect his new family.
Nick Dashwood has been a staple in the previous three books, so I was delighted that his was book 4. There's a little danger and a bit of plotting, but the conflict is primarily external to the relationship, which makes it feel almost cozy! I really enjoyed this series, and this is the perfect nightcap for it, featuring Linden's signature well-developed characters and plots with enough historical references to politics of the time to make this reader happy.
January 23, 2024
Wow! What can I say......such a great read. Great characters and storyline. Loved it! 5☆
December 1, 2024
Lecture fluide sans temps mort, mais il m'aura manqué un petit quelque chose, peut-être moins de contrôle de la part du héros, même si ses hésitations sont touchantes.
July 11, 2023
This is the fourth book in the Wagers of Sin series, but stands alone well. As it turned out, I had forgotten most of the previous three books (they came out a few years ago) but that did not take away from the story. You’ll find yourself wanting to read the first three books, though.
The main characters, Emilia and Nick, are both likable people concerned with doing the right thing. Emilia finds herself responsible for a young charge, and applies to Nicholas for help, etc. They both have some secrets they’re reluctant to share, but I liked how the plot didn’t hinge on “if you’d just TALK to each other this wouldn’t be an issue!” The side characters really add to the story without distraction here, they’re vital to both the plot and to Emilia and Nick in a way that really builds the story and the character development. There is a realistic amount of steam, and the characters have a consenting, healthy relationship.
I was provided an ARC of the audiobook of this book, but my opinions are my own. The audiobook was enjoyable, the narrator has a pleasant voice and does a good job of differentiating the main characters.
The main characters, Emilia and Nick, are both likable people concerned with doing the right thing. Emilia finds herself responsible for a young charge, and applies to Nicholas for help, etc. They both have some secrets they’re reluctant to share, but I liked how the plot didn’t hinge on “if you’d just TALK to each other this wouldn’t be an issue!” The side characters really add to the story without distraction here, they’re vital to both the plot and to Emilia and Nick in a way that really builds the story and the character development. There is a realistic amount of steam, and the characters have a consenting, healthy relationship.
I was provided an ARC of the audiobook of this book, but my opinions are my own. The audiobook was enjoyable, the narrator has a pleasant voice and does a good job of differentiating the main characters.
June 29, 2023
I had always wanted to read Caroline Linden but found her books to be too expensive. When you read at least 350 or more books a year, $8 is expensive. Anyway, I ended buying the first 3 books in this Wagers of Sin series with credits I had. I liked the stories and I thought the writing was good. I LOVED book 3. I happen to run across this book and definitely wanted to finish out the series.
My reviews are very different from most you will see. I don't give reviews that repeat everything in the authors book description. I actually don’t even read those anymore so I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. No hint of spoilers of any kind. I am also reluctant to say too much in my reviews as to give any hint of what happens. I think I’m a pretty good judge of a good or bad book and those who see my reviews know what authors I read and can see how many books by that author that I’ve read. So without saying too much, I do like to inform you if it’s a good read or not but not give anything away. A good book to me is one that you don’t want to put down. One that makes you feel like you’re watching a movie while reading it and actually standing in the room with them watching/reading the story take place. One that you read in one sitting and only stop for bathroom breaks. One when you finally look up from reading, it takes you a minute to realize where you are.
With all that being said, I loved this book. I loved Emelia and Nick. I loved their story and their personalities. I loved the sex. I loved the intrigue and adventure. Just a great read!!!
My reviews are very different from most you will see. I don't give reviews that repeat everything in the authors book description. I actually don’t even read those anymore so I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. No hint of spoilers of any kind. I am also reluctant to say too much in my reviews as to give any hint of what happens. I think I’m a pretty good judge of a good or bad book and those who see my reviews know what authors I read and can see how many books by that author that I’ve read. So without saying too much, I do like to inform you if it’s a good read or not but not give anything away. A good book to me is one that you don’t want to put down. One that makes you feel like you’re watching a movie while reading it and actually standing in the room with them watching/reading the story take place. One that you read in one sitting and only stop for bathroom breaks. One when you finally look up from reading, it takes you a minute to realize where you are.
With all that being said, I loved this book. I loved Emelia and Nick. I loved their story and their personalities. I loved the sex. I loved the intrigue and adventure. Just a great read!!!
June 25, 2023
Review originally posted on Overflowing Shelf
Rating: 4.5 Stars
CW: Child abuse; physical abuse; fire; references to slavery
It’s been a while since I read Caroline Linden’s Wagers of Sin series, but I was excited to dive back into the fourth and final book! I enjoyed the first three books in the series, but this one may be my favorite!
Once a lady, now reduced to a governess, Emilia Greene is desperate to help her latest charge after the child has been left orphaned and penniless. Emilia will do anything to protect her, even if that means tracking down the girl’s only relation and the next Viscount Sydenham. Unfortunately, that man is Nicholas Dashwood, the owner of the notorious Vega Club. He’s no gentleman and doesn’t want a title. But what he does want is a governess for his younger sister. Together, Nicholas and Emilia work out a precarious bargain that forces them into close proximity. But Nick has enemies, Emilia has secrets, and taking a gamble on a happily ever after could cost them everything.
I adored the romance in this one! It was so sweet, yet still delivered on the emotions and heat. The chemistry between Nick and Emilia felt like a slow simmer, which worked for this story. Also, who doesn’t love a good dancing scene where they both realize they have feelings? I know I sure do! While there is a bit of a weird dynamic with him being her employer, Linden handled it perfectly, and it ended up being a really cute bit. The romance in this one is relatively low angst, with no significant conflict between the main couple. I’ve been reading a lot of high-angst romances recently, and it was a nice change of pace to have relatively low drama between the main couple.
Emilia Greene was such a great female main character. Man, does she has some balls on her, and I loved her first interaction with Dashwood! I enjoyed how protective and loving she is of Lucy and Charlotte – she goes above and beyond her job description to care for these girls. As Nick says, “Miss Greene is a marvel,” and I agree with him. She’s clever, driven, and fiercely loyal. I admired how she forged her own path in life that allowed her the freedom and independence to do what she wished, especially despite her terrible family. She’s got backbone.
Nicholas Dashwood has been lurking in the background of the previous books as the owner of the Vega Club. I knew I would love him as soon as I met him, as I’m a sucker for a gaming hell owner. He’s a self-made man who worked his way up to own one of London’s most powerful gaming hells, only to find out he’s the long-lost heir to a viscounty. He does not desire the title but sees the advantages it could bring his family, so he sucks it up for them. He’s fiercely protective of those he cares about, and I loved seeing the softer side of this tough gaming hell boss. And he’s great with Lucy and Charlotte – it melted my heart.
The relationship between Lucy and Charlotte was also lovely. These two girls have been through a lot in their young lives, but they have a sisterly bond rather quickly, and I liked how protective they were of each other.
It may be weird to say this, but I loved the villains in this! Baron Fitchley and his friends are truly the worst. They gave off serious ~bad vibes~ and I loved how Linden made them feel like the slimiest of slimes. Since the romance is low angst, they helped inject some drama into the story that I really enjoyed. I couldn’t wait to see what sort of villainy they would get up to and how Nicholas and Emilia would get out of it.
If you’re looking for a delightful, engrossing, sweet romance, I definitely would recommend Fortune Favors the Viscount! I was immediately hooked on the story and found myself having a hard time putting the book down.
Thank you to Caroline Linden for the ARC. All thoughts, ideas, and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Rating: 4.5 Stars
CW: Child abuse; physical abuse; fire; references to slavery
It’s been a while since I read Caroline Linden’s Wagers of Sin series, but I was excited to dive back into the fourth and final book! I enjoyed the first three books in the series, but this one may be my favorite!
Once a lady, now reduced to a governess, Emilia Greene is desperate to help her latest charge after the child has been left orphaned and penniless. Emilia will do anything to protect her, even if that means tracking down the girl’s only relation and the next Viscount Sydenham. Unfortunately, that man is Nicholas Dashwood, the owner of the notorious Vega Club. He’s no gentleman and doesn’t want a title. But what he does want is a governess for his younger sister. Together, Nicholas and Emilia work out a precarious bargain that forces them into close proximity. But Nick has enemies, Emilia has secrets, and taking a gamble on a happily ever after could cost them everything.
I adored the romance in this one! It was so sweet, yet still delivered on the emotions and heat. The chemistry between Nick and Emilia felt like a slow simmer, which worked for this story. Also, who doesn’t love a good dancing scene where they both realize they have feelings? I know I sure do! While there is a bit of a weird dynamic with him being her employer, Linden handled it perfectly, and it ended up being a really cute bit. The romance in this one is relatively low angst, with no significant conflict between the main couple. I’ve been reading a lot of high-angst romances recently, and it was a nice change of pace to have relatively low drama between the main couple.
Emilia Greene was such a great female main character. Man, does she has some balls on her, and I loved her first interaction with Dashwood! I enjoyed how protective and loving she is of Lucy and Charlotte – she goes above and beyond her job description to care for these girls. As Nick says, “Miss Greene is a marvel,” and I agree with him. She’s clever, driven, and fiercely loyal. I admired how she forged her own path in life that allowed her the freedom and independence to do what she wished, especially despite her terrible family. She’s got backbone.
Nicholas Dashwood has been lurking in the background of the previous books as the owner of the Vega Club. I knew I would love him as soon as I met him, as I’m a sucker for a gaming hell owner. He’s a self-made man who worked his way up to own one of London’s most powerful gaming hells, only to find out he’s the long-lost heir to a viscounty. He does not desire the title but sees the advantages it could bring his family, so he sucks it up for them. He’s fiercely protective of those he cares about, and I loved seeing the softer side of this tough gaming hell boss. And he’s great with Lucy and Charlotte – it melted my heart.
The relationship between Lucy and Charlotte was also lovely. These two girls have been through a lot in their young lives, but they have a sisterly bond rather quickly, and I liked how protective they were of each other.
It may be weird to say this, but I loved the villains in this! Baron Fitchley and his friends are truly the worst. They gave off serious ~bad vibes~ and I loved how Linden made them feel like the slimiest of slimes. Since the romance is low angst, they helped inject some drama into the story that I really enjoyed. I couldn’t wait to see what sort of villainy they would get up to and how Nicholas and Emilia would get out of it.
If you’re looking for a delightful, engrossing, sweet romance, I definitely would recommend Fortune Favors the Viscount! I was immediately hooked on the story and found myself having a hard time putting the book down.
Thank you to Caroline Linden for the ARC. All thoughts, ideas, and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 1, 2023
Emilia Greene has one mission - ensure the well-being of the young girl put in her care. Emilia is Lucy’s governess, and now that Lucy’s father, a viscount, is dead, and the new guardian is an odious man who, luckily, has no desire to have anything to do with his new ward, Emilia knows she must act. She takes it upon herself to find the next relative that can take over the viscountcy and hopefully save them all.
Nick Dashwood is a self-made man and has built his own gambling empire in the form of the Vega Club, an exclusive gaming hell where the fashionable go to lose their money. When he meets Miss Emilia Greene, who weasels her way past his bouncers to see him, he is intrigued. However, when she tells him he is the next Viscount Sydenham, he scoffs at her ridiculous tale. But could it be true? And does he even want to become part of the aristocracy after everything he has been through?
I just loved both Emilia and Nick. Emilia is super clever and wily and cares deeply. Nick pretends to be aloof but he secretly cares deeply for those in his care as well. It was great seeing these two form a partnership that turned into something more. There’s also a pretty great villain who is very distasteful and awful.
This is the last book in the Vega Club series and can definitely be read as a standalone. I had read the others in the series but it has been awhile and I never felt like I didn’t know what was going on. The other couples from those books are brought into the epilogue though.
Nick Dashwood is a self-made man and has built his own gambling empire in the form of the Vega Club, an exclusive gaming hell where the fashionable go to lose their money. When he meets Miss Emilia Greene, who weasels her way past his bouncers to see him, he is intrigued. However, when she tells him he is the next Viscount Sydenham, he scoffs at her ridiculous tale. But could it be true? And does he even want to become part of the aristocracy after everything he has been through?
I just loved both Emilia and Nick. Emilia is super clever and wily and cares deeply. Nick pretends to be aloof but he secretly cares deeply for those in his care as well. It was great seeing these two form a partnership that turned into something more. There’s also a pretty great villain who is very distasteful and awful.
This is the last book in the Vega Club series and can definitely be read as a standalone. I had read the others in the series but it has been awhile and I never felt like I didn’t know what was going on. The other couples from those books are brought into the epilogue though.
July 5, 2023
A delight! Very nice to visit this series again, I loved Nick & Emilia together. Linden gets her couples quickly and has them solve issues together, very well done!
June 10, 2024
Grade=C+
September 8, 2025
The actual writing was fine and the plot/set-up good, but the chemistry between the two leads was really lacking. And the characters pretty two dimensional in general.
December 30, 2023
e-book, Hoopla
Emilia, Nicholas Dashwood
I can usually depend upon a solid, romantic story from Linden, as was the case with this one.
Emilia, Nicholas Dashwood
I can usually depend upon a solid, romantic story from Linden, as was the case with this one.
June 30, 2023
Fortune Favors the Viscount
The Wagers of Sin book 4
by Caroline Linden
It was a while for this last book to get to us but I honestly have to say this, this was the best one of the series….in my opinion.
Emilia Greene has hit on some hard times, once she was a lady but now she’s a governess to a young girl that she’s totally loves as her own. Emilia is feisty and will do everything in her power to get her ward the safe home she deserves. Even if she has to proposition the only man that holds the secrets to every noble in London. Who’s notorious for his ruthlessness at the Vegas Club, Emilia didn’t hesitate to take the bull by the horns and look him straight in the eye and propose her scheme.
I believe that’s when Nicholas fell in love with her.
Nicholas Dashwood is a complex, self made and hard man,but with a soft side he doesn’t let people see except very few people.
I loved him he was cruel but fair in his dealings with his much beloved club and patrons. He wasn’t looking for love but it knocked his universe of its axle. He really has hard time believing what Emilia is telling him, he’s not part of the nobility no matter what the beauty with green eyes has been trying to convince him.
This last book was absolutely amazing, the characters were believable and the chemistry between Nickolas and Emilia was a slow burn that sizzled of the pages!
Caroline Linden has a way with words that grab the reader in the story and world of the characters. I seriously recommend this to anyone who loves historical romance.
I received a complimentary copy from the author this is my unbiased opinion.
The Wagers of Sin book 4
by Caroline Linden
It was a while for this last book to get to us but I honestly have to say this, this was the best one of the series….in my opinion.
Emilia Greene has hit on some hard times, once she was a lady but now she’s a governess to a young girl that she’s totally loves as her own. Emilia is feisty and will do everything in her power to get her ward the safe home she deserves. Even if she has to proposition the only man that holds the secrets to every noble in London. Who’s notorious for his ruthlessness at the Vegas Club, Emilia didn’t hesitate to take the bull by the horns and look him straight in the eye and propose her scheme.
I believe that’s when Nicholas fell in love with her.
Nicholas Dashwood is a complex, self made and hard man,but with a soft side he doesn’t let people see except very few people.
I loved him he was cruel but fair in his dealings with his much beloved club and patrons. He wasn’t looking for love but it knocked his universe of its axle. He really has hard time believing what Emilia is telling him, he’s not part of the nobility no matter what the beauty with green eyes has been trying to convince him.
This last book was absolutely amazing, the characters were believable and the chemistry between Nickolas and Emilia was a slow burn that sizzled of the pages!
Caroline Linden has a way with words that grab the reader in the story and world of the characters. I seriously recommend this to anyone who loves historical romance.
I received a complimentary copy from the author this is my unbiased opinion.
July 5, 2023
Wonderful. I loved it.
December 3, 2023
Heroine: Emilia Greene, about 27. A governess and the niece of the Earl of Harlow.
Hero: Nicholas Dashwood, under 34? Nickname: Nick. Gaming club owner.
Date: about 1820
How they meet: Emilia shows up at Nick’s club to inform him that he is the presumptive heir to Viscount Sydenham. She offers to help him petition the crown, but he isn’t interested in becoming a peer.
What happens: As Emilia pleads with Nick to change his mind, he learns that she is the governess to the last Viscount’s daughter, who will be left destitute if no heir is located. He still isn’t swayed, but secretly admires her determination. He routinely has potential club members investigated, so he does the same with Emilia, concerned she is setting up some sort of a trap for him.
Verdict: While this is the last in the series, and the hero has been a small side character in previous books, this one really does read ok as a standalone. The non-romance aspects of the story were fairly complex and interesting. The romance itself was less compelling. The two were attracted to each other, opened up to each other, and shared a common enemy, but I was never convinced that they had much, if anything, in common. On the plus side, I appreciated that the two worked well as a team and both were selfless in their quest to look after the young women in their care.
Steam-level: steamy and explicit
Rating: 3 stars
Hero: Nicholas Dashwood, under 34? Nickname: Nick. Gaming club owner.
Date: about 1820
How they meet: Emilia shows up at Nick’s club to inform him that he is the presumptive heir to Viscount Sydenham. She offers to help him petition the crown, but he isn’t interested in becoming a peer.
What happens: As Emilia pleads with Nick to change his mind, he learns that she is the governess to the last Viscount’s daughter, who will be left destitute if no heir is located. He still isn’t swayed, but secretly admires her determination. He routinely has potential club members investigated, so he does the same with Emilia, concerned she is setting up some sort of a trap for him.
Verdict: While this is the last in the series, and the hero has been a small side character in previous books, this one really does read ok as a standalone. The non-romance aspects of the story were fairly complex and interesting. The romance itself was less compelling. The two were attracted to each other, opened up to each other, and shared a common enemy, but I was never convinced that they had much, if anything, in common. On the plus side, I appreciated that the two worked well as a team and both were selfless in their quest to look after the young women in their care.
Steam-level: steamy and explicit
Rating: 3 stars
September 19, 2023
This one was cute. It's a slow burn and the development felt organic. I liked that the intimacy was initiated by the heroine.
I thought the children were well written. They weren't annoying at all.
I really liked that the hero used his money, power, and connections to deal with the villain rather than just going off to punch him.
I thought the children were well written. They weren't annoying at all.
I really liked that the hero used his money, power, and connections to deal with the villain rather than just going off to punch him.
March 6, 2024
2.5*. Well written, good overall story, decent characters. Unfortunately, it couldn’t hold my interest past the first third of the book. I’m not sure why but I skipped about 15 chapters to get to the end.
November 13, 2023
4⭐️
Awww this one started off so strong and then it just kinda fizzled out. I would say I enjoyed most of it, but it was somewhat anticlimactic.
Governess Emilia Greene arrives early one morning to the notorious Vega Club to meet with the owner, Nicolas Dashwood. Though he doesn’t know this. After struggling to even get in passed the security, Emilia finally comes face to face with Dashwood and drops a life changing bomb on him. He’s the new Viscount Sydenham. After much time researching the Sydenham family tree, Emilia was positive everything pointed to Dashwood. Well, he is not interested in the title nor does he want to know more. Emilia tries her best to persuade him to take what is rightfully his but Nicolas is unmoved. He also can sense that there has to be an ulterior motive as to why Emilia is insistent on him taking the title. Emilia explains to him that the previous Viscount left a nine year old daughter, Lucinda in her care, without any money and zero protection. If Nicolas does not take the title it goes into abeyance. But he refuses her again and tells her to be on her way.
Nicholas does not care for the aristocracy nor has he any interest in becoming apart of it. Just being at his club and witnessing the self entitled, over indulgent crowds nightly gives him enough pause as is. But his mind cannot stop wondering to the passionate and determined, Emilia. He decides to do some digging himself. He finds that she was once part of the aristocracy and now has become a governess. Odd.
But on thinking of her proposition, Nicolas decides it may be beneficial to have a title. He has a 15 year old sister, Charlotte who he cares desperately for and having a title would be a great way to ease her into society. And a governess like Emilia Greene would be perfect for her.
When he reaches back out to Emilia, it’s his time to proposition her—- with a wager on a game of cards. If she wins, he will look over her evidence she’s found pointing to him as the new Viscount and if he wins, she must owe him a favor, burn all the information that she has on him and he will settle with giving her 5,000 pounds. Emilia wins and the investigation begins.
Finding out that all this information is indeed true, Nicolas accepts on the condition that Emilia govern Charlotte as well as Lucinda. She agrees and moves into Nicolas’ home to be a proper governess to the girls. As they both spend more time in each others company, Emilia and Nicolas start falling for each other. Who knew? Nicolas learns more and more about who Emilia is and how she became a governess. She stepped away from society to avoid marriage between her and Lord Fitchley, a lecherous man who is twice her age. Fitchley has also been causing major problems for Nick at his club. He also finds out that if he did not take the title, Lord Fitchley would become Lucinda’s new guardian. Eeek. But when Lord Fitchley sees Emilia for the first time in almost 8 years, he’s determined to have her back as his bride. Gross.
Nick must do whatever he can to secure the title, not only for his sister, but for both Emilia and Lucinda as he’s growing to love them. But when Fitchley threatens to take the title over, Nick will do anything to protect his new family.
It really did enjoy the beginning to maybe around 65%— hearing all the names and lineages of both Emilia and Nicolas got confusing to be honest lol. There was just… so many names. And then as everything started wrapping up, I just got so bored. Fitchley’s revenge was anticlimactic — I mean, this guy was evil and his threats were vile.. and then, nothing? I love the drama and there was a set up FOR drama and then we got nada… I just left feeling unsatisfied. I thought this would go in so many directions but it just… didn’t. There was so much that could’ve been done!
For example:
1) Lucy & Charlotte get kidnapped by Fitchley and Nick and Emilia must get them back
2) Emilia gets kidnapped by Fitchley and tries to force a marriage again
3) Fitchley threatens to expose everything he knows to society in order to get the title
4) Nick, bein the sneak that he his, challenges Fitchley to a card game for the title and cheats and wins.
There was SO much that could’ve been done!
This is my first book by Caroline, but it definitely won’t be my last!
Awww this one started off so strong and then it just kinda fizzled out. I would say I enjoyed most of it, but it was somewhat anticlimactic.
Governess Emilia Greene arrives early one morning to the notorious Vega Club to meet with the owner, Nicolas Dashwood. Though he doesn’t know this. After struggling to even get in passed the security, Emilia finally comes face to face with Dashwood and drops a life changing bomb on him. He’s the new Viscount Sydenham. After much time researching the Sydenham family tree, Emilia was positive everything pointed to Dashwood. Well, he is not interested in the title nor does he want to know more. Emilia tries her best to persuade him to take what is rightfully his but Nicolas is unmoved. He also can sense that there has to be an ulterior motive as to why Emilia is insistent on him taking the title. Emilia explains to him that the previous Viscount left a nine year old daughter, Lucinda in her care, without any money and zero protection. If Nicolas does not take the title it goes into abeyance. But he refuses her again and tells her to be on her way.
Nicholas does not care for the aristocracy nor has he any interest in becoming apart of it. Just being at his club and witnessing the self entitled, over indulgent crowds nightly gives him enough pause as is. But his mind cannot stop wondering to the passionate and determined, Emilia. He decides to do some digging himself. He finds that she was once part of the aristocracy and now has become a governess. Odd.
But on thinking of her proposition, Nicolas decides it may be beneficial to have a title. He has a 15 year old sister, Charlotte who he cares desperately for and having a title would be a great way to ease her into society. And a governess like Emilia Greene would be perfect for her.
When he reaches back out to Emilia, it’s his time to proposition her—- with a wager on a game of cards. If she wins, he will look over her evidence she’s found pointing to him as the new Viscount and if he wins, she must owe him a favor, burn all the information that she has on him and he will settle with giving her 5,000 pounds. Emilia wins and the investigation begins.
Finding out that all this information is indeed true, Nicolas accepts on the condition that Emilia govern Charlotte as well as Lucinda. She agrees and moves into Nicolas’ home to be a proper governess to the girls. As they both spend more time in each others company, Emilia and Nicolas start falling for each other. Who knew? Nicolas learns more and more about who Emilia is and how she became a governess. She stepped away from society to avoid marriage between her and Lord Fitchley, a lecherous man who is twice her age. Fitchley has also been causing major problems for Nick at his club. He also finds out that if he did not take the title, Lord Fitchley would become Lucinda’s new guardian. Eeek. But when Lord Fitchley sees Emilia for the first time in almost 8 years, he’s determined to have her back as his bride. Gross.
Nick must do whatever he can to secure the title, not only for his sister, but for both Emilia and Lucinda as he’s growing to love them. But when Fitchley threatens to take the title over, Nick will do anything to protect his new family.
It really did enjoy the beginning to maybe around 65%— hearing all the names and lineages of both Emilia and Nicolas got confusing to be honest lol. There was just… so many names. And then as everything started wrapping up, I just got so bored. Fitchley’s revenge was anticlimactic — I mean, this guy was evil and his threats were vile.. and then, nothing? I love the drama and there was a set up FOR drama and then we got nada… I just left feeling unsatisfied. I thought this would go in so many directions but it just… didn’t. There was so much that could’ve been done!
For example:
1) Lucy & Charlotte get kidnapped by Fitchley and Nick and Emilia must get them back
2) Emilia gets kidnapped by Fitchley and tries to force a marriage again
3) Fitchley threatens to expose everything he knows to society in order to get the title
4) Nick, bein the sneak that he his, challenges Fitchley to a card game for the title and cheats and wins.
There was SO much that could’ve been done!
This is my first book by Caroline, but it definitely won’t be my last!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2023
4.5 stars, rounded up.
Miss Emilia Greene is desperate, her former employer has passed away with no heir, leaving a penniless estate and his young daughter. Emilia is concerned for Lucinda, but it isn’t until she learns that the man the Viscount left guardianship to is none other than her former betrothed, that she knows there is no way she can leave Lucy in his care and decides to find an heir. She begins to search and finds Nicholas Dashwood – now she just has to go to London and convince him to claim the title and take Lucinda as his ward. It should be easy – because really, what man wouldn’t want a title?
Nicholas “Nick” Dashwood is the owner of the popular gaming hell Vega Club. He is a self-made man, who is rich, mysterious, and perfectly content with his life. But that was before he met Miss Emilia Greene, a governess who is sure that Nick is actually the only heir of the late Viscount Sydenham and therefore the next of kin to her young charge, Lucinda Sidney. Nick has no desire to claim the title, but Emilia is relentless and refuses to let Nick dismiss her out of hand. Against his better judgment, Nick agrees to hear her claims and grudgingly agrees that being elevated to the peerage would benefit his sister. He agrees to look at the evidence she has gathered and will consider filing a claim to the title if she will become his sister’s governess. He even agrees to support Lucy and house them, especially when he learns whom Lucy’s father named as her guardian. He is almost sure that he is not the heir, but has his solicitor look into it. Now he just has to make sure none of this changes anything in his life and ignore the growing attraction he is feeling for Emilia.
What a great addition to the series! This book is well-written, nicely paced, and features a slow-burn romance between relatable and likable characters. The story is filled with secrets, past betrayals, awful families, longing, danger, steamyish love scenes, trust, more danger, a nasty villain, wonderful secondary characters, as well as cameos with former characters, and finally, a HEA that warms your heart. I loved this book, but I did feel like I was left with some unanswered questions, nothing really major or anything that would change the story, but unanswered questions nonetheless. This is the fourth book in the series and I thought it was the last book, but now I’m not really sure if that is the case or not. Either way, this book could be read as a standalone title with no problem, but do yourself a favor and read the series in order.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Miss Emilia Greene is desperate, her former employer has passed away with no heir, leaving a penniless estate and his young daughter. Emilia is concerned for Lucinda, but it isn’t until she learns that the man the Viscount left guardianship to is none other than her former betrothed, that she knows there is no way she can leave Lucy in his care and decides to find an heir. She begins to search and finds Nicholas Dashwood – now she just has to go to London and convince him to claim the title and take Lucinda as his ward. It should be easy – because really, what man wouldn’t want a title?
Nicholas “Nick” Dashwood is the owner of the popular gaming hell Vega Club. He is a self-made man, who is rich, mysterious, and perfectly content with his life. But that was before he met Miss Emilia Greene, a governess who is sure that Nick is actually the only heir of the late Viscount Sydenham and therefore the next of kin to her young charge, Lucinda Sidney. Nick has no desire to claim the title, but Emilia is relentless and refuses to let Nick dismiss her out of hand. Against his better judgment, Nick agrees to hear her claims and grudgingly agrees that being elevated to the peerage would benefit his sister. He agrees to look at the evidence she has gathered and will consider filing a claim to the title if she will become his sister’s governess. He even agrees to support Lucy and house them, especially when he learns whom Lucy’s father named as her guardian. He is almost sure that he is not the heir, but has his solicitor look into it. Now he just has to make sure none of this changes anything in his life and ignore the growing attraction he is feeling for Emilia.
What a great addition to the series! This book is well-written, nicely paced, and features a slow-burn romance between relatable and likable characters. The story is filled with secrets, past betrayals, awful families, longing, danger, steamyish love scenes, trust, more danger, a nasty villain, wonderful secondary characters, as well as cameos with former characters, and finally, a HEA that warms your heart. I loved this book, but I did feel like I was left with some unanswered questions, nothing really major or anything that would change the story, but unanswered questions nonetheless. This is the fourth book in the series and I thought it was the last book, but now I’m not really sure if that is the case or not. Either way, this book could be read as a standalone title with no problem, but do yourself a favor and read the series in order.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
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