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Southern Heat #2
To Desire a Scoundrel
The first rule when dealing with scoundrels? Never wager more than you are willing to lose.
Especially in matters of the heart.
Katherine Peters had loved Richmond's most notorious scoundrel -
and lost. She vowed to forget Tanner Barkley. And deny the ache in her heart.
Caught between the devil and desire.
Tanner Barkley rejected a banking fortune for the newspaper
business. He hadn't planned on falling in love with the one person who held the key to the most important story of his career.
Katherine's disdain is no match for Tanner's persuasive charm.
Or the love neither can deny.
Especially in matters of the heart.
Katherine Peters had loved Richmond's most notorious scoundrel -
and lost. She vowed to forget Tanner Barkley. And deny the ache in her heart.
Caught between the devil and desire.
Tanner Barkley rejected a banking fortune for the newspaper
business. He hadn't planned on falling in love with the one person who held the key to the most important story of his career.
Katherine's disdain is no match for Tanner's persuasive charm.
Or the love neither can deny.
136 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 12, 2011
252 people are currently reading
391 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Sumner
60 books1,637 followers"Witty dialogue and steamy sensuality.”
—Publisher’s Weekly
The USA Today bestselling author's storytelling career began when she picked up a historical romance on a college beach trip, and she fondly blames LaVyrle Spencer for her obsession with the genre. She’s a recipient of the National Reader’s Choice, HOLT Medallion, Golden Leaf and MAGGIE among others. She lived in New York, Paris and Taipei before returning to NYC.
When not writing sizzling love stories about feisty heroines and their temperamental-but-entirely-lovable heroes, Tracy enjoys reading, snowboarding, college football (Go Tigers!), yoga, and travel. She loves to hear from romance readers!
Find me everywhere on social here!
https://linktr.ee/tracysumner
—Publisher’s Weekly
The USA Today bestselling author's storytelling career began when she picked up a historical romance on a college beach trip, and she fondly blames LaVyrle Spencer for her obsession with the genre. She’s a recipient of the National Reader’s Choice, HOLT Medallion, Golden Leaf and MAGGIE among others. She lived in New York, Paris and Taipei before returning to NYC.
When not writing sizzling love stories about feisty heroines and their temperamental-but-entirely-lovable heroes, Tracy enjoys reading, snowboarding, college football (Go Tigers!), yoga, and travel. She loves to hear from romance readers!
Find me everywhere on social here!
https://linktr.ee/tracysumner
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
did-not-finish
December 3, 2023DNF chapter three.
This is just contemporary romance dressed up in historical curtains. I can’t read any more of this rich society woman, being a bookkeeper for fun and running around having nightly liaisons with men when her mother is a well respected and vigilant chaperone to other women.
This author is on my naughty list now. This book was not good.
This is just contemporary romance dressed up in historical curtains. I can’t read any more of this rich society woman, being a bookkeeper for fun and running around having nightly liaisons with men when her mother is a well respected and vigilant chaperone to other women.
This author is on my naughty list now. This book was not good.
December 31, 2011
I think this author needs to pick a genre she wants to write in. This is supposed to be historical romantic fiction. I personally felt there was more animosity than spark in it, but I could have been too distracted by trying to figure out the setting of the story. It is supposed to be antebellum South -- a 3 hour stage coach ride from Richmond (which might be 50 miles and that would be giving it something.) I spent my time trying to decide if it was 1852, 1952, or 2002 though. And the setting felt more Bonanza or Colorado than slave holding pre-war Virginia.
(MILD SPOILERS) The wealthiest family in town has no servants or slaves -- in 1852? The heroine appears to have worked as a bookkeeper in Richmond, but is wealthy enough to attend all sorts of balls and be expected to marry well, socially. It's one thing to take care of personal family accounts, but another thing entirely to work outside the family, as was inferred. And the heroine is apparently able to spend the night with the hero/lover 2 years ago in Richmond on what seems like numerous occasions and no one knew she was doing this -- in 1850? This woman's mother is supposedly very upright and chaperones another character in a different book, but where was she during the current and referred to past events of this novella? The characters were not even remotely acting to social norms of antebellum wealthy (or even middle class) Virginia, but more Jersey Shore (maybe not that bad, but close.)
There was potential with the plot and the interaction between the couple fairly believable, but there were too many questions and plot holes to make it as enjoyable as it should have been.
(MILD SPOILERS) The wealthiest family in town has no servants or slaves -- in 1852? The heroine appears to have worked as a bookkeeper in Richmond, but is wealthy enough to attend all sorts of balls and be expected to marry well, socially. It's one thing to take care of personal family accounts, but another thing entirely to work outside the family, as was inferred. And the heroine is apparently able to spend the night with the hero/lover 2 years ago in Richmond on what seems like numerous occasions and no one knew she was doing this -- in 1850? This woman's mother is supposedly very upright and chaperones another character in a different book, but where was she during the current and referred to past events of this novella? The characters were not even remotely acting to social norms of antebellum wealthy (or even middle class) Virginia, but more Jersey Shore (maybe not that bad, but close.)
There was potential with the plot and the interaction between the couple fairly believable, but there were too many questions and plot holes to make it as enjoyable as it should have been.
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October 15, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/15/2019)! 🎁
May 15, 2021
A quick and entertaining novella, the story focuses on Kate and Tanner, ex-lovers who still have feelings for each other. Secrets, lies, and betrayal tore the couple apart almost two years ago, but their feelings for each other still remain. Tanner is desperate to prove his love for Kate, but he knows this is near impossible, especially since she thinks he is a liar and a rake. Can Tanner win Kate’s heart once again, or is it too late for this couple?
Tanner, a newspaperman who worked with Adam (from To Seduce a Rogue) needs a place to rest and recuperate during the holidays. Imagine his surprise when his old flame “Kate is on the same carriage and headed to the same small town as Tanner. Kate is horrified to be traveling with her first and only love. He is a known womanizer, and he betrayed her badly, and Kate has resolutely cut him from her life. Of course, with mutual and meddling friends, as well as many unresolved issues, Kate and Tanner’s love story is far from over.
Kate and Tanner have a lot of issues to work through, but Kate’s stubborn pride prevents this from happening. Tanner does not help the situation with his volatility and mismanagement of secrets. There are major trust issues and miscommunications that the couple has to work through, and both have to decide if their feelings are strong enough to get through the obstacles that stand in their way.
As we learn more about their relationship and what forced their break-up, we also learn how deeply Kate and Tanner loved each other. Tanner is much more aware of feelings, but Kate has buried hers. What I like is that they both acknowledge and take accountability for the mistakes they made in the past. Tanner wasn’t as honest as he should have been, and Kate didn’t give him the benefit of the doubt. They didn’t fight for each other as hard as they should have, which is what led to their estrangement. They are well-developed characters, both with good qualities and flaws, and their chemistry is fantastic!! Their relationship is filled with angst, anger, and passion, and their emotions are super intense.
I also love that Charlie and Adam, the main characters in To Seduce a Rogue have important roles in this story. I love Charlie and Adam, and it’s wonderful to see how their love story has progressed. Other characters introduced in the first book make appearances in this one, including Charlie’s best friend, her cousin, and other members of the small town in which they live. It’s interesting to see how Kate and Tanner fit in and interact with these familiar faces.
This is a great second-chance romance with wonderful characters, small-town charm, a bit of intrigue, and a fabulous enemies-to-lovers love story. I think readers who enjoy historical romance and are looking for a captivating story that can be read in one sitting will adore this book! Thanks so much to Tracy Sumner for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Tanner, a newspaperman who worked with Adam (from To Seduce a Rogue) needs a place to rest and recuperate during the holidays. Imagine his surprise when his old flame “Kate is on the same carriage and headed to the same small town as Tanner. Kate is horrified to be traveling with her first and only love. He is a known womanizer, and he betrayed her badly, and Kate has resolutely cut him from her life. Of course, with mutual and meddling friends, as well as many unresolved issues, Kate and Tanner’s love story is far from over.
Kate and Tanner have a lot of issues to work through, but Kate’s stubborn pride prevents this from happening. Tanner does not help the situation with his volatility and mismanagement of secrets. There are major trust issues and miscommunications that the couple has to work through, and both have to decide if their feelings are strong enough to get through the obstacles that stand in their way.
As we learn more about their relationship and what forced their break-up, we also learn how deeply Kate and Tanner loved each other. Tanner is much more aware of feelings, but Kate has buried hers. What I like is that they both acknowledge and take accountability for the mistakes they made in the past. Tanner wasn’t as honest as he should have been, and Kate didn’t give him the benefit of the doubt. They didn’t fight for each other as hard as they should have, which is what led to their estrangement. They are well-developed characters, both with good qualities and flaws, and their chemistry is fantastic!! Their relationship is filled with angst, anger, and passion, and their emotions are super intense.
I also love that Charlie and Adam, the main characters in To Seduce a Rogue have important roles in this story. I love Charlie and Adam, and it’s wonderful to see how their love story has progressed. Other characters introduced in the first book make appearances in this one, including Charlie’s best friend, her cousin, and other members of the small town in which they live. It’s interesting to see how Kate and Tanner fit in and interact with these familiar faces.
This is a great second-chance romance with wonderful characters, small-town charm, a bit of intrigue, and a fabulous enemies-to-lovers love story. I think readers who enjoy historical romance and are looking for a captivating story that can be read in one sitting will adore this book! Thanks so much to Tracy Sumner for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Read
November 20, 2021Christmas & Love!
*Second chance
*Small-town
*STEAMY holiday romance
Katherine Peters had loved Richmond's most notorious scoundrel—and lost. She vowed to forget Tanner Barkley. And deny the ache in her heart. Caught between the devil and desire. Tanner Barkley rejected a banking fortune for the newspaper business. He hadn't planned on falling in love with the one person who held the key to the most important story of his career.
Katherine's disdain is no match for Tanner's persuasive charm.
Or the love neither can deny.
"A sexy tale filled with great verbal repartee."--Romantic Times
*Second chance
*Small-town
*STEAMY holiday romance
Katherine Peters had loved Richmond's most notorious scoundrel—and lost. She vowed to forget Tanner Barkley. And deny the ache in her heart. Caught between the devil and desire. Tanner Barkley rejected a banking fortune for the newspaper business. He hadn't planned on falling in love with the one person who held the key to the most important story of his career.
Katherine's disdain is no match for Tanner's persuasive charm.
Or the love neither can deny.
"A sexy tale filled with great verbal repartee."--Romantic Times
August 12, 2020
Lovely Story!
A quick, interesting and passionate second chances story fill with lots of regrets and a beautiful make-ups.
Loved these two characters on their journey to allowing themselves to eventually admit their love for each other.
I'm happy to recommend it.
A quick, interesting and passionate second chances story fill with lots of regrets and a beautiful make-ups.
Loved these two characters on their journey to allowing themselves to eventually admit their love for each other.
I'm happy to recommend it.
October 22, 2020
Ooooh what a delicious story this is! I really enjoyed Kat and Tanner's characters and the interactions between them were so volatile and yet sizzling with passion. Having been lovers two years earlier, misunderstandings have kept them apart since then but now they have a second chance.
Kat feels that Tanner used her and lied to her and wants nothing to do with him. It's up to Tanner to make her listen to his explanations but she makes it very difficult! While they fight their true feelings, they also cannot resist each other which makes for some steamy scenes....fans self:)
I thought this was well written and I spent a lovely afternoon reading it. Trace Sumner has become an author whose books I really enjoy reading.
Kat feels that Tanner used her and lied to her and wants nothing to do with him. It's up to Tanner to make her listen to his explanations but she makes it very difficult! While they fight their true feelings, they also cannot resist each other which makes for some steamy scenes....fans self:)
I thought this was well written and I spent a lovely afternoon reading it. Trace Sumner has become an author whose books I really enjoy reading.
June 5, 2024
A nice novella, slightly Christmassy. It did feel a shade modern… story and dialogue between the MCs. Plus it was overwhelmingly them arguing the whole time until the very end. I liked the hero, Tanner… he was real, personable… groveled lots, and he made the story.
April 13, 2019
i liked the story but the H/h was annoying sometimes, but overall it was a very good book
June 21, 2021
This was a freebie! A good story, but just not my cup of tea. I didn't very much like the characters.
A quick read. 3☆
A quick read. 3☆
December 28, 2011
This is a novella that was part of an anthology that was available for free from Kindle for the holidays. Good story, wished it was longer.
Two years ago Tanner had left Kate hurt and destroyed from all his lies. Now she's moved on even though she still loves him and he's followed her home. Tanner can not accept that it is truly over even after all this time, and he will do anything possible to make Kate realize she can't live without him.
Two years ago Tanner had left Kate hurt and destroyed from all his lies. Now she's moved on even though she still loves him and he's followed her home. Tanner can not accept that it is truly over even after all this time, and he will do anything possible to make Kate realize she can't live without him.
December 28, 2020
This book has one of the best opening sentences I have ever read: “They burst from the still-settling stagecoach like two cats from a burlap sack.” I cannot imagine not reading more after a hook like that. Wow. Kate is described thusly: “Her amber eyes held his; eyes brimming so sharply with intelligence that they almost diminished the beauty of her face.” I was determined to read more.
I had already read To Seduce a Rogue so I was thrilled to see Charlie and Adam again, and loved that Kate was the daughter of Mrs. Peters, Charlie's stuffy chaperone. I didn’t remember Tanner from the previous book, but that didn’t affect my enjoyment of this one.
The characters of Kate Peters and Tanner Sloane Barkley are well-developed and well-matched. There is reference to a past relationship, bits and pieces remembered, that creates the basis for their current state of estrangement. While Tanner recognizes he still loves Kate, Kate has buried her love for Tanner and has convinced herself that she no longer cares for him. There are some very sweet and sentimental touches, like the hair clip that Tanner has been carrying for almost two years and when he angrily tells Kate in Chapter 2 that she broke his heart (something she doesn’t believe is true).
There are also details that are highlighted that reflect the silly things we notice during times of stress and also serve as metaphors for something more significant. There’s a scene in which Tanner tries to get through to Kate in Charlie’s kitchen, to make her understand how he feels. “She shook her head, focusing on the sliver of apple touching his boot.” Charlie intervenes because she can see Kate is close to tears. “Bulky, black boots appeared beside Tanner’s and squashed the apple sliver to bits.” And he leaves. “He slapped the door wide, his footfalls echoing down the hallway. The door rocked with disintegrating creaks, finally expiring like a serpent breath.” The imagery was so strong here. First, Kate focuses on the insignificant piece of apple on the floor to avoid focusing on the feelings that are tearing her apart. After Tanner leaves, I can clearly hear the swishing sound of the swinging door, slowing down, then softly expiring.
Kate is insistent in her refusal to hear what Tanner has to say, convinced she could never recover from another heartbreak and unwilling to chance it. He begs her to listen. “Jesus, he hated her for making him grovel—respected her for making him grovel.” Although the story is told in third-person past-tense, it is mostly Tanner’s feelings that carry the story, since Kate is so cut off from her own. She doesn't deny the attraction between them, but attributes it to lust. Tanner knows better. “He felt her passionate cry, in his chest, in his soul, as if she’d plunged it in with a sharp blade.” He tries to tell her that what they have is special, but she is steadfast in her denial.
The emotions conveyed through the story are convincing, and the characters are authentic. The plot, at times, is disjointed. It’s not that it’s difficult to follow. Rather, there are some jumps in time that do not have the transitions that would make them smoother. Although it’s not surprising what happens, there is little explanation for the sequence of events. For example, as Tanner briefly awakens, he tells Kate he will always come for her. Next, Kate is in her sister’s house in Richmond, wondering if Tanner will come for her. Again, it’s logical that she is back there, and it was expected that the story would go that way. It’s just that she goes from one place to another outside of the story. Similarly, the transition from refusal to accept Tanner’s love and acknowledge the love she feels for him is lacking in the steps needed to get from one point to the next.
I still loved the story and I still recommend it. In the afterward, the author says this was her “very first historical romance.” Reading this helped me to understand why this wasn’t her best book. It’s still better than a lot of stuff out there, but her skill as an author has grown so much that it makes this seem inferior (but only to her own writing). If I were to rate this book on a Tracy Sumner 5-point scale, I would give it 4 stars. Since the scale includes all writers, I’m giving it 5.
I had already read To Seduce a Rogue so I was thrilled to see Charlie and Adam again, and loved that Kate was the daughter of Mrs. Peters, Charlie's stuffy chaperone. I didn’t remember Tanner from the previous book, but that didn’t affect my enjoyment of this one.
The characters of Kate Peters and Tanner Sloane Barkley are well-developed and well-matched. There is reference to a past relationship, bits and pieces remembered, that creates the basis for their current state of estrangement. While Tanner recognizes he still loves Kate, Kate has buried her love for Tanner and has convinced herself that she no longer cares for him. There are some very sweet and sentimental touches, like the hair clip that Tanner has been carrying for almost two years and when he angrily tells Kate in Chapter 2 that she broke his heart (something she doesn’t believe is true).
There are also details that are highlighted that reflect the silly things we notice during times of stress and also serve as metaphors for something more significant. There’s a scene in which Tanner tries to get through to Kate in Charlie’s kitchen, to make her understand how he feels. “She shook her head, focusing on the sliver of apple touching his boot.” Charlie intervenes because she can see Kate is close to tears. “Bulky, black boots appeared beside Tanner’s and squashed the apple sliver to bits.” And he leaves. “He slapped the door wide, his footfalls echoing down the hallway. The door rocked with disintegrating creaks, finally expiring like a serpent breath.” The imagery was so strong here. First, Kate focuses on the insignificant piece of apple on the floor to avoid focusing on the feelings that are tearing her apart. After Tanner leaves, I can clearly hear the swishing sound of the swinging door, slowing down, then softly expiring.
Kate is insistent in her refusal to hear what Tanner has to say, convinced she could never recover from another heartbreak and unwilling to chance it. He begs her to listen. “Jesus, he hated her for making him grovel—respected her for making him grovel.” Although the story is told in third-person past-tense, it is mostly Tanner’s feelings that carry the story, since Kate is so cut off from her own. She doesn't deny the attraction between them, but attributes it to lust. Tanner knows better. “He felt her passionate cry, in his chest, in his soul, as if she’d plunged it in with a sharp blade.” He tries to tell her that what they have is special, but she is steadfast in her denial.
The emotions conveyed through the story are convincing, and the characters are authentic. The plot, at times, is disjointed. It’s not that it’s difficult to follow. Rather, there are some jumps in time that do not have the transitions that would make them smoother. Although it’s not surprising what happens, there is little explanation for the sequence of events. For example, as Tanner briefly awakens, he tells Kate he will always come for her. Next, Kate is in her sister’s house in Richmond, wondering if Tanner will come for her. Again, it’s logical that she is back there, and it was expected that the story would go that way. It’s just that she goes from one place to another outside of the story. Similarly, the transition from refusal to accept Tanner’s love and acknowledge the love she feels for him is lacking in the steps needed to get from one point to the next.
I still loved the story and I still recommend it. In the afterward, the author says this was her “very first historical romance.” Reading this helped me to understand why this wasn’t her best book. It’s still better than a lot of stuff out there, but her skill as an author has grown so much that it makes this seem inferior (but only to her own writing). If I were to rate this book on a Tracy Sumner 5-point scale, I would give it 4 stars. Since the scale includes all writers, I’m giving it 5.
December 23, 2023
To Desire a Scoundrel is book two in the Southern Heat series and also part of the anthology of Christmas novellas. This could be read as a standalone. I’d read this one six months ago and decided to read it again as part of the anthology.
Katherine Peters and Tanner Barkley had a budding romance two years prior but when a news article by Tanner comes out, Kat believes she’d been used by Tanner for the article. A year and a half later they both find themselves on a stagecoach destined to the same town at Christmas. While Kat is trying to tell herself she’s moved on, Tanner can’t lie to himself that he hasn’t and needs to explain what happened 18 months ago. If only Kat will give him the chance.
I enjoyed this one even though a lot won’t. The MMC does refer to and call the FMC a b*tch- there’s a lot of strong emotions and hurt that the MC were feeling. While I didn’t care for it, it also didn’t keep me from liking the rest of the story, if you can’t then this is not for you. Even reading it a second time I was a little confused in the beginning but as the story played out everything came together in the end. This could’ve been a full novel but still got a little bit of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days vibes. Like I said, there’s a lot of hurt from both parties but they do a good job of finally listening, apologizing, and groveling.
There’s one encounter and occurs before they’ve fully made up so there’s plenty of tension that makes it steamy.
Overall, this may not be everyone’s cup of tea but I enjoyed this novella.
Katherine Peters and Tanner Barkley had a budding romance two years prior but when a news article by Tanner comes out, Kat believes she’d been used by Tanner for the article. A year and a half later they both find themselves on a stagecoach destined to the same town at Christmas. While Kat is trying to tell herself she’s moved on, Tanner can’t lie to himself that he hasn’t and needs to explain what happened 18 months ago. If only Kat will give him the chance.
I enjoyed this one even though a lot won’t. The MMC does refer to and call the FMC a b*tch- there’s a lot of strong emotions and hurt that the MC were feeling. While I didn’t care for it, it also didn’t keep me from liking the rest of the story, if you can’t then this is not for you. Even reading it a second time I was a little confused in the beginning but as the story played out everything came together in the end. This could’ve been a full novel but still got a little bit of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days vibes. Like I said, there’s a lot of hurt from both parties but they do a good job of finally listening, apologizing, and groveling.
There’s one encounter and occurs before they’ve fully made up so there’s plenty of tension that makes it steamy.
Overall, this may not be everyone’s cup of tea but I enjoyed this novella.
March 18, 2020
True Love Prevails
Oh Tanner sweet sweet Tanner do you kiss your mother with that mouth.
This is Adam’s friend Tanner’s story from To Seduce A Rogue. His love interest just happens to be Kate the daughter of Charlie’s chaperone in book one. Evidently Tanner and Kate had special relationship before Tanner thinking he had more time waited a little too late to come clean about who he was and exactly what he was doing. But to be fair Kate didn’t act much better by running off and not giving him a chance to explain. The irony of them both having to ride the stage coach all the way from Richmond to Edgemont was just too much. We have Tanner dressed like a ragamuffin and I’m sure Kate wasn’t none too friendly. Things still conspired against them once they arrived in Edgemont. Once they arrived there was an issue in Kates past and then the string of ladies in Tanner’s past didn’t help much either. It took so long for them to come clean with each other. But in the end they finally made it back to each other. The only thing that bothered me was Tanner’s mouth. I guess I had a different picture of him from the first book. I’m no prude by a long shot. But he definitely deserved to have his mouth washed out a few times. A few foul words in a story doesn’t necessarily define the story. Which is the case here. It is a great read one I will definitely read again.
Oh Tanner sweet sweet Tanner do you kiss your mother with that mouth.
This is Adam’s friend Tanner’s story from To Seduce A Rogue. His love interest just happens to be Kate the daughter of Charlie’s chaperone in book one. Evidently Tanner and Kate had special relationship before Tanner thinking he had more time waited a little too late to come clean about who he was and exactly what he was doing. But to be fair Kate didn’t act much better by running off and not giving him a chance to explain. The irony of them both having to ride the stage coach all the way from Richmond to Edgemont was just too much. We have Tanner dressed like a ragamuffin and I’m sure Kate wasn’t none too friendly. Things still conspired against them once they arrived in Edgemont. Once they arrived there was an issue in Kates past and then the string of ladies in Tanner’s past didn’t help much either. It took so long for them to come clean with each other. But in the end they finally made it back to each other. The only thing that bothered me was Tanner’s mouth. I guess I had a different picture of him from the first book. I’m no prude by a long shot. But he definitely deserved to have his mouth washed out a few times. A few foul words in a story doesn’t necessarily define the story. Which is the case here. It is a great read one I will definitely read again.
December 26, 2019
Here Comes Love💘
1852- Pre Civil War Southern United States
ADULT Historical Romance💕
Tanner🐺🍆⛲, a womanizing son of a wealthy banker, insists on ignoring the family business and being a newspaper man. He drinks🍷 too much, too. Maybe to drown his sorrows...
He meets Kate💃💋 in the middle of his investigation of a corrupt businessman. The crook he's investigating is an associate of Kate's father. He and Kate💃💋 were getting along great until the story broke in the paper. Now she feels like he used her to get info! She hates him now!
Tanner🐺🍆⛲ got attacked by the businessman's thugs and had to leave town. Now he learns Kate💃💋 is betrothed to another man. Tanner🐺🍆⛲ was ready to ask her to marry him when everything went bad between them. Two years have passed. He still loves💘 her, could she still be in 💘love with him?
Now they both have come to the same small town at Christmas time, to spend time with the same family.
ARC Received from Hidden 💎 Gems.
I also got this ebook with KU.
I had read this book a year or so ago and really enjoyed reading it again. Tanner is quite a character! The events in the book seem much too modern for The supposed time period, but it is fun 📚reading!
1852- Pre Civil War Southern United States
ADULT Historical Romance💕
Tanner🐺🍆⛲, a womanizing son of a wealthy banker, insists on ignoring the family business and being a newspaper man. He drinks🍷 too much, too. Maybe to drown his sorrows...
He meets Kate💃💋 in the middle of his investigation of a corrupt businessman. The crook he's investigating is an associate of Kate's father. He and Kate💃💋 were getting along great until the story broke in the paper. Now she feels like he used her to get info! She hates him now!
Tanner🐺🍆⛲ got attacked by the businessman's thugs and had to leave town. Now he learns Kate💃💋 is betrothed to another man. Tanner🐺🍆⛲ was ready to ask her to marry him when everything went bad between them. Two years have passed. He still loves💘 her, could she still be in 💘love with him?
Now they both have come to the same small town at Christmas time, to spend time with the same family.
ARC Received from Hidden 💎 Gems.
I also got this ebook with KU.
I had read this book a year or so ago and really enjoyed reading it again. Tanner is quite a character! The events in the book seem much too modern for The supposed time period, but it is fun 📚reading!
February 10, 2020
" 'You weren't something I planned on Princess. Things would have been much simpler had I never met you' "
Tanner Barkley, a newspaper man who worked with Adam Chase in Richmond had high-tailed it out of town headed toward Adam's new home, a place to lay low and heal- literally. Who would have guessed he'd end up in the same coach as his old love: Katherine Peters. The energy was still there... but could she stand him anymore? Could they hide their banked attraction behind barbed comments? The sparks still flew; did they hold any hope?
Tanner and Kat are both trying too hard. But when an emergency hits, will their walls burn down? Tracy Sumner wrote this originally for a Christmas anthology, and now published on its own, it burns as bright as the love that Kat and Tanner deny. Highly Recommended. 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book as a gift from the author and voluntarily read and reviewed it]
Tanner Barkley, a newspaper man who worked with Adam Chase in Richmond had high-tailed it out of town headed toward Adam's new home, a place to lay low and heal- literally. Who would have guessed he'd end up in the same coach as his old love: Katherine Peters. The energy was still there... but could she stand him anymore? Could they hide their banked attraction behind barbed comments? The sparks still flew; did they hold any hope?
Tanner and Kat are both trying too hard. But when an emergency hits, will their walls burn down? Tracy Sumner wrote this originally for a Christmas anthology, and now published on its own, it burns as bright as the love that Kat and Tanner deny. Highly Recommended. 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book as a gift from the author and voluntarily read and reviewed it]
May 1, 2020
The first rule when dealing with scoundrels? Never wager more than you are willing to lose. Especially in matters of the heart.
Katherine Peters had loved Richmond's most notorious scoundrel — and lost. She vowed to forget Tanner Barkley. And deny the ache in her heart.
Caught between the devil and desire.
Tanner Barkley rejected a banking fortune for the newspaper business. He hadn't planned on falling in love with the one person who held the key to the most important story of his career.
Katherine's disdain is no match for Tanner's persuasive charm.
Or the love neither can deny.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great passion and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Katherine Peters had loved Richmond's most notorious scoundrel — and lost. She vowed to forget Tanner Barkley. And deny the ache in her heart.
Caught between the devil and desire.
Tanner Barkley rejected a banking fortune for the newspaper business. He hadn't planned on falling in love with the one person who held the key to the most important story of his career.
Katherine's disdain is no match for Tanner's persuasive charm.
Or the love neither can deny.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great passion and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 9, 2021
I enjoyed this historical romance with the two main characters that were Lady Camille Bellington and Tristan Tierney, the Duke of Mercer. And also the rest of the characters to.
Lady Camille Bellington has like the Tristan Tierney, the Duke of Mercer for years now and has also chased after him. But now she has finally decided to not chase after him anymore since he is back from the war. She decided to take the marriage proposal from the Viscount.
Tristan Tierney, the Duke of Mercer has been gone from London for a while because he want off to the war. He has returned to his family ancestral homes for the holidays. He is surprised to see that his friend's sister again.And is also surprised to hear that she is engaged to be married.
This story was short and very steamy but was fun to read. There were quite a bit of laughable moments.
I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
Lady Camille Bellington has like the Tristan Tierney, the Duke of Mercer for years now and has also chased after him. But now she has finally decided to not chase after him anymore since he is back from the war. She decided to take the marriage proposal from the Viscount.
Tristan Tierney, the Duke of Mercer has been gone from London for a while because he want off to the war. He has returned to his family ancestral homes for the holidays. He is surprised to see that his friend's sister again.And is also surprised to hear that she is engaged to be married.
This story was short and very steamy but was fun to read. There were quite a bit of laughable moments.
I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
December 22, 2019
Possibly the best book I have read by this Author
The first rule when dealing with scoundrels? Never wager more than you are willing to lose.
Especially in matters of the heart.
This is possibly the best book I have read by this Author.
Since the first ones I read were situated closer to the twentieth century they didn't appeal to me as much as this one did.
I gave this book 4.25 of 5.0 star for plot, story line and characterization.
I would be interested in reading this whole series based on the content of this one.
Although I read an ARC of this book provided by Hidden Gems I already had it in my Kindle Library.
This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed.
The first rule when dealing with scoundrels? Never wager more than you are willing to lose.
Especially in matters of the heart.
This is possibly the best book I have read by this Author.
Since the first ones I read were situated closer to the twentieth century they didn't appeal to me as much as this one did.
I gave this book 4.25 of 5.0 star for plot, story line and characterization.
I would be interested in reading this whole series based on the content of this one.
Although I read an ARC of this book provided by Hidden Gems I already had it in my Kindle Library.
This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed.
December 26, 2019
Hot, feisty, stubborn
To Desire A Scoundrel: A Christmas Seduction by Tracy Sumner is a well written historical romance. I really enjoyed these characters, Tanner and Kate, as they are quite well matched. It’s never a dull moment as these two exchange verbal barbs rather than communicate and accept what they insist on denying. Both of them are quiet stubborn, but Tanner is the persistent one. I really loved how he handles Kate at the end.
Overall, a well written historical romance with plenty of steam, some holiday cheer and an alpha HEA.
I read an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and voluntarily share my review.
To Desire A Scoundrel: A Christmas Seduction by Tracy Sumner is a well written historical romance. I really enjoyed these characters, Tanner and Kate, as they are quite well matched. It’s never a dull moment as these two exchange verbal barbs rather than communicate and accept what they insist on denying. Both of them are quiet stubborn, but Tanner is the persistent one. I really loved how he handles Kate at the end.
Overall, a well written historical romance with plenty of steam, some holiday cheer and an alpha HEA.
I read an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and voluntarily share my review.
February 9, 2021
When Tanner Barkley and Kate Peters see each other, sparks fly. Once they were deeply in love, but Kate believed Tanner betrayed her, so she ran and tried not to care, refusing to listen to Tanner’s excuses. Then they find themselves both guests of mutual friends at a Christmas tree decorating party. There is a hilarious scene with the over-served guests wobbling and toppling the tree a time or two. Their magnetic chemistry keeps drawing them back together despite Kate’s determination not to rekindle their simmering love. To Desire a Scoundrel is a fun read that fans of steamy romances will enjoy.
May 29, 2022
This is a book that I read because it was late at night and I didn't want to start something heavy so I scrolled through the random stuff I had on my Kindle and have no idea where it came from - old ARCs? free Kindle downloads of yore? library requests that never got taken back for some reason? Unclear.
Anyways, this is a novella and it is predicated on a misunderstanding/fight that is easily resolved. The hero is slightly too mean to be believable, or maybe that's my 10-years-after-this-was-written sensibility. But eh, I liked the setting and it's been awhile since I read a new western romance, so sure.
Anyways, this is a novella and it is predicated on a misunderstanding/fight that is easily resolved. The hero is slightly too mean to be believable, or maybe that's my 10-years-after-this-was-written sensibility. But eh, I liked the setting and it's been awhile since I read a new western romance, so sure.
July 7, 2022
When Tanner Barkley and Kate Peters see each other, sparks fly. Once they were deeply in love, but Kate believed Tanner betrayed her, so she ran and tried not to care, refusing to listen to Tanner’s excuses. Then they find themselves both guests of mutual friends at a Christmas tree decorating party. There is a hilarious scene with the over-served guests wobbling and toppling the tree a time or two. Their magnetic chemistry keeps drawing them back together despite Kate’s determination not to rekindle their simmering love. To Desire a Scoundrel is a fun read that fans of steamy romances will enjoy.
December 26, 2019
We meet Tanker in the previous episode "To Seduce a Rogue", now we are seeing this scoundrel in a new light. One of the forlorn lover, trying to reclaim his lost love, who had slipped from his fingers, due to mismanaging the timing of publication of an article, and telling her the truth about himself, as an undercover journalist.
Finally, they are in a situation that he may be able to finally explain, only, she just doesn't want anything to do with him.
It's a wonderful tale of how the two sort out their problems.
Finally, they are in a situation that he may be able to finally explain, only, she just doesn't want anything to do with him.
It's a wonderful tale of how the two sort out their problems.
November 17, 2020
There was obviously a backstory to this which left some information wanting. This theme was less about Christmas and more about one long seduction. Still have trouble mixing the two to this extent. However, as always, the author's novella is well-written with excellent character development. Despite not being my cup of tea, it held possibilities to anyone who doesn't share this bias on subject matter...
July 20, 2021
Kat and Tanner our heroine and Hero... are in for a bumpy ride. They meet during an undercover job that Tanner is working on. Once Kat finds out she feels used and both end up hurt. However they meet a few years later... can the hurt & the assumptions be resolved? The storyline grips you from the start to finish. The characters are stubborn but wonderful!!! i enjoyed this read.
I was gifted this book as an ARC and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I was gifted this book as an ARC and this is my voluntary and honest review.
January 3, 2025
3.5*’s. It took me a while to figure out the setting and time period for this story. While I liked the premise of conflict between Tanner and Kate, the story just didn’t flow for me. Misunderstandings, hot temperatures tempers and what seems like a love-hate relationship was the driving force this plot. While the story sort of makes sense, the extremes of the emotion that the characters went through felt forced.
December 19, 2020
This story was shorter but better than the first book in this series. Kat and Tanner have history and love/Lust and hate each other.
The start of the book was a bit hard to get into, but then I couldn’t put it down!
I’ve read all of Tracy Sumner’s books now and have to say that usually the second or third books or a shorter novella type books are my favorite by her.
The start of the book was a bit hard to get into, but then I couldn’t put it down!
I’ve read all of Tracy Sumner’s books now and have to say that usually the second or third books or a shorter novella type books are my favorite by her.
April 5, 2021
Oh, I just couldn’t put this one down! Absolutely sizzling and with such great characters.
I just WISH we hadn’t been left right on the brink - this story definitely deserves at least a short novella to wrap up what happened after that dressing room scene!
Though I received a free ARC of this from the author, all opinions are my own.
I just WISH we hadn’t been left right on the brink - this story definitely deserves at least a short novella to wrap up what happened after that dressing room scene!
Though I received a free ARC of this from the author, all opinions are my own.
November 20, 2022
A second chance romance with some punch to it .
Kat and Tanner phew ! They are feisty, and passionate one minute hating each other the next but still with passion .
A great follow on story from Adams and Charlie’s .
Love Tracey’s work stories are told with such a descriptive and passionate hand .
More please I have ran out of your books 👍🙂
Kat and Tanner phew ! They are feisty, and passionate one minute hating each other the next but still with passion .
A great follow on story from Adams and Charlie’s .
Love Tracey’s work stories are told with such a descriptive and passionate hand .
More please I have ran out of your books 👍🙂
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