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The Elusive Lords #3
An Heir of Deception
A man devastated by loveAfter three years of carousing and debauchery, Alex Cartwright, heir to the Duke of Hastings, has put his life back in order. Having embraced sobriety for two years, he has no intention of revisiting the past or risking his heart again. But the return of the very woman who introduced him to the darkest side of hell brings not only the painful, haunting memories of bittersweet love and abandonment, but the son he never knew he had...A woman silenced by secretsThreatened by the revelation of a secret that could destroy her family’s place in society and forever tarnish a dukedom, Charlotte fled England on her wedding day five years ago. Now, although it appears that secret is safe, when Alex discovers her other secret—their son—Charlotte has an altogether different battle ahead. She must now fight one love to hold onto the other—the man whose touch still makes her burn, for the child who is her very The Elusive Lords (Book 3)
352 pages, Paperback
First published April 22, 2012
819 people are currently reading
3925 people want to read
About the author
Beverley Kendall
38 books990 followers
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Beverley Kendall has lived on two continents, in three countries, two provinces, and four states. She stopped her nomadic existence and settled in the southeast with her young son. All things artistic feed her creative passion, but none more than writing.
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Communicate with me via beverley@beverleykendall.com
Beverley Kendall has lived on two continents, in three countries, two provinces, and four states. She stopped her nomadic existence and settled in the southeast with her young son. All things artistic feed her creative passion, but none more than writing.
Connect with me on Facebook
Communicate with me via beverley@beverleykendall.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
March 27, 2019
I don’t know what happened! This book had so much potential to be adored and flaunted by me. I love HR, second chance romances, and secret baby tropes/genres. Unfortunately, we just didn’t “mesh.”
I didn’t fall in love with the H or h. There was just too much repetitive internal dialogue, and not enough content and world building. I think I’ve just been reading so many fantastic HRs, that this one unfortunately really missed the mark.
Overall Rating → 2.75 stars (I don’t follow GR rating system)
Price is Right? →
Love Triangle? →
Cheating? →
Angst Level: High, Medium, Low →
Heat/Language Level: Rated G, PG, PG-13, R, NC-17 →
HEA →
Page Turner? → yes and no. I finished the book, but skimmed a lot. I just could not bring myself to dnf even though I wanted to. Basically, I skimmed for the parts that answered my questions. Was not invested in any of the characters.
Would I recommend? → maybe. If you really want a secret-baby second-chance historical romance read, then go on ahead. Maybe you will enjoy it. You know what they say, “different strokes for different folks.”
Would I re-read? → no
My feels with this one :/ Glad it's over.
Would I read more from this author? → Maybe
I didn’t fall in love with the H or h. There was just too much repetitive internal dialogue, and not enough content and world building. I think I’ve just been reading so many fantastic HRs, that this one unfortunately really missed the mark.
Overall Rating → 2.75 stars (I don’t follow GR rating system)
Price is Right? →
Love Triangle? →
Cheating? →
Angst Level: High, Medium, Low →
Heat/Language Level: Rated G, PG, PG-13, R, NC-17 →
HEA →
Page Turner? → yes and no. I finished the book, but skimmed a lot. I just could not bring myself to dnf even though I wanted to. Basically, I skimmed for the parts that answered my questions. Was not invested in any of the characters.
Would I recommend? → maybe. If you really want a secret-baby second-chance historical romance read, then go on ahead. Maybe you will enjoy it. You know what they say, “different strokes for different folks.”
Would I re-read? → no
My feels with this one :/ Glad it's over. Would I read more from this author? → Maybe
June 20, 2013
This is going to be a short review, but I cannot begin to say how disappointed I am with this book.
I picked up Beverley Kendall's "When in Paris..." looking for a refreshing read and I think the moment I hit about page 16 or 17, I realized what the problem with the narrative was - the style of the writing. It did not work for the story at all - it was mostly telling, not showing, and none of the characters were identifiable. Their voices didn't feel authentic, the only thing that really defined them were their pining feelings for each other, lust over each other's bodies, and jealousy factors for each other's competing love interests. Seriously, it was the only thing I really got out of this story in the read and getting through the story was a chore. People do not think or act like this in real life and it was incredibly shallow and a struggle to read.
It tries to evoke a college atmosphere, but that was threadbare; it tries to define some of the other characters and their relationships, but there's a lot of naming and shaming, girl on girl confrontations and drama that felt manufactured for the sake of conflict. It seemed like the only reason Zach hated Olivia initially was because she seemed like she was fake, down to her boobs. To which she grabs his hands and let's her handle her boobs to show they are real. Not long after that, they fall in love. I didn't feel a bit of it, sadly. The conflicts to that love felt just as static as the development of their relationship, and the trip to Paris? Not evocative. I actually became angry as a revelation about one of the characters came to pass near the end of the book, and it felt like that was thrown in just to supposedly drive the characters further together.
I think from the style of the writing and feeling like the experience was a waste of time, I'll be skipping the rest of the series.
Overall score: 0.5/5
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher Season Publishing.
I picked up Beverley Kendall's "When in Paris..." looking for a refreshing read and I think the moment I hit about page 16 or 17, I realized what the problem with the narrative was - the style of the writing. It did not work for the story at all - it was mostly telling, not showing, and none of the characters were identifiable. Their voices didn't feel authentic, the only thing that really defined them were their pining feelings for each other, lust over each other's bodies, and jealousy factors for each other's competing love interests. Seriously, it was the only thing I really got out of this story in the read and getting through the story was a chore. People do not think or act like this in real life and it was incredibly shallow and a struggle to read.
It tries to evoke a college atmosphere, but that was threadbare; it tries to define some of the other characters and their relationships, but there's a lot of naming and shaming, girl on girl confrontations and drama that felt manufactured for the sake of conflict. It seemed like the only reason Zach hated Olivia initially was because she seemed like she was fake, down to her boobs. To which she grabs his hands and let's her handle her boobs to show they are real. Not long after that, they fall in love. I didn't feel a bit of it, sadly. The conflicts to that love felt just as static as the development of their relationship, and the trip to Paris? Not evocative. I actually became angry as a revelation about one of the characters came to pass near the end of the book, and it felt like that was thrown in just to supposedly drive the characters further together.
I think from the style of the writing and feeling like the experience was a waste of time, I'll be skipping the rest of the series.
Overall score: 0.5/5
Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, from the publisher Season Publishing.
July 6, 2018
There are two strands to this story.
One the h/H dynamic and relationship - how it will pick up from her flight and now return with a secret child after 5 years. Can he forgive her? Do they have a future? How to ensure the son's legitimacy and inheritance issues.
Then the mystery of who wanted to hurt her, separate them?
It's an average book that could have been much better.
One the h/H dynamic and relationship - how it will pick up from her flight and now return with a secret child after 5 years. Can he forgive her? Do they have a future? How to ensure the son's legitimacy and inheritance issues.
Then the mystery of who wanted to hurt her, separate them?
It's an average book that could have been much better.
April 25, 2012
If you love historical romance, you'll love Beverley Kendall. An Heir of Deception was such an emotional read that I just couldn't put it down. I felt so emotionally connected to the characters that I just had to get to their HEA. This was a highly anticipated read for me and it did not disappoint.
This is not a lighthearted read. The emotions are strong, the conflict intense, and the love scenes steamy. I recommend this book to anyone who loves stories where the angst is heavy, but the payoff and passion totally worth it. I can say for the first time, that I actually felt stronger and more sympathetic for Alex (our hero) in the story. But all in all, I loved both Alex and Charlotte and felt their passion and love for each other leaping off the pages.
I've been a fan of Beverley Kendall's writing, and have enjoyed all the other books in this series. I love all her characters, have rooted for all the couples, and I'm already excited for more in the future. It's a great sign when people are already chomping at the bit for a story and HEA for secondary characters (Catherine and Lucas).
This is not a lighthearted read. The emotions are strong, the conflict intense, and the love scenes steamy. I recommend this book to anyone who loves stories where the angst is heavy, but the payoff and passion totally worth it. I can say for the first time, that I actually felt stronger and more sympathetic for Alex (our hero) in the story. But all in all, I loved both Alex and Charlotte and felt their passion and love for each other leaping off the pages.
I've been a fan of Beverley Kendall's writing, and have enjoyed all the other books in this series. I love all her characters, have rooted for all the couples, and I'm already excited for more in the future. It's a great sign when people are already chomping at the bit for a story and HEA for secondary characters (Catherine and Lucas).
January 21, 2013
This review was originally published at Dear Author.
Dear Ms.Kendall:
For the past week, I've had seven New Adults staying in our house--my four, my eldest's girlfriend, a good friend of his from college, and a visiting Australian. The New Adult world you write about in When in Paris not only has nothing to do with how New Adults actually behave, it's also a whole lot duller than New Adult reality. (Although there does appear to be less arguing over whose turn it is to unload the dishwasher.)
The heroine and hero of When in Paris, Olivia Montgomery and Zach Pearson, went to high school together where they never spoke mostly because Zach ignored her with the single-mindedness of a Red Sox fan at a home game. Olivia has craved Zach forever.
Olivia was baffled why Zach constantly gave her the Big Chill. After all, as she points out,
So gorgeous Olivia has always longed for but been ignored by gorgeous Zach. Yeah, he's phenomenally hot too.
At the start of When in Paris, Olivia is shocked, freaked, and--oh God look at his wickedly beautiful eyes--to realize that Zach is also a freshman at the small college she's attending. The school is 300 miles away and in a different state than where they went to high school. She can't understand what he's doing there. He was the star of their high school football team, his older brother is the quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, and Zach had been heavily recruited by many of college football's most storied programs. The college Olivia--and apparently Zach--attends is Warwick University, a decent Division I school but nothing like the Big Ten schools where Olivia had thought he'd go. Poor Olivia, all she wanted to do was go to college and let boys admire her gorgeousness, do well in her classes, hang out with her supremely beautiful best friend April, and go to Paris over fall break with her French class. Now Zach and all his not-for-Olivia yumminess is here and it's just awful. (Cue a heavy on the base song by Massive Attack.)
That's Olivia's view on her relationship with Zach. Zach's is utterly different. We know this because each chapter changes point of view.
Zach has always jonesed for Olivia but he's not allowed to like her because--and there's a BIG mystery going on here kids--his family hates her mother. As Zach explains,
So, Olivia of the supermodel face and stunning boobs and Zach of the gorgeous face and rock hard abs must now face the horrible truth. Their high school peers and Zach's inexplicably closed-minded parents aren't here. Zach's totally off her rocker high school girl friend Ashley isn't here. Zach and Olivia have, gasp, a French class together. They have no choice but to end up in bed as soon as the plot can be forced to allow them to do so. (But only after Olivia has a "They're real and they're spectacular" show and tell moment with Zach.)
Zach, in order to escape fall break at home where his bullying dad will harangue him to switch to a better football program, decides to go to Paris with the French class. Olivia arranges to sit next to Zach on the flight and, by the time they've landed in the City of Love, Zach decides to seduce Olivia.
Olivia does indeed let Zach teach her zee ways of love in Paris--which, as portrayed by Ms. Kendall, might as well have been anywhere. And before you know it, Olivia's in love and Zach's loving getting laid and getting his hands regularly on her (real) bountiful boobs. But, apparently what happens in Paris, has a different meaning out of Paris and all it takes, when Olivia and Zach return home, is for Olivia to use the B word (boyfriend) to make Zach abandon tail and run. (Poor baby, he's still scarred by his crazy constantly texting him ex-girlfriend--her irresponsible parents have begged him not to set possibly suicidal Ashley off and Zach feels responsible for her sanity.)
There are tears, jealous fights, painful discovered truths about family, and more description than I ever want to read again about how hot, gorgeous, sexy, firm, built, and lickable these New Adults are. The angst in the book has the heft of a poorly written term paper and is equally as interesting. The plot is on the silly side and is in large part propelled by parents who really should know better.
The world faced by the 17 to 25 cohort is fascinating, challenging, and in constant flux. I usually enjoy talking to the New Adults I know. Their efforts to define their lives and their realm is interesting. Gorgeous New Adults who don't struggle with money, don't worry about the future, and have the self-awareness of Gwyneth Paltrow aren't interesting. I didn't like either "don't hate me because I'm beautiful" Olivia or "all these chicks want me, what's a stud to do" Zach. Yes, both have redemptive moments, but, overall, neither character is believable or engaging. The world Ms. Kendall places them in--whether in Paris or in the USA--is presented with the depth of Matt Lauer interview.
Dear Author has reviewed several New Adult books positively in the past year. I had hoped my first venture in doing so would be enjoyable. No such luck for poor Old Adult me. If you are looking to read a great New Adult book, look away from When in Paris. I give it a C-.
I'm off to find a New Adult to unload the dishwasher,
Dabney
Dear Ms.Kendall:
For the past week, I've had seven New Adults staying in our house--my four, my eldest's girlfriend, a good friend of his from college, and a visiting Australian. The New Adult world you write about in When in Paris not only has nothing to do with how New Adults actually behave, it's also a whole lot duller than New Adult reality. (Although there does appear to be less arguing over whose turn it is to unload the dishwasher.)
The heroine and hero of When in Paris, Olivia Montgomery and Zach Pearson, went to high school together where they never spoke mostly because Zach ignored her with the single-mindedness of a Red Sox fan at a home game. Olivia has craved Zach forever.
It had all started on the first day of high school. I’d been fourteen—you know, the age when our bodies are a flux of surging hormones. The instant I laid eyes on him, I felt a physical attraction so powerful I swear it left me dazed. I think my heart had been in the smile I sent him, to which he’d responded by giving me the colder-than-arctic shoulder.
Olivia was baffled why Zach constantly gave her the Big Chill. After all, as she points out,
Beyond crushed is the only way to explain how I felt when he’d completely ignored me. At that point, disliking him had been a simple matter of self-preservation. Of course that’s not how I looked at it back then. No, back then I was just plain hurt, not to mention nursing a bruised pride. You see, by then I’d become accustomed not only to male attention, but their admiration. It hadn’t been anything I’d actively sought or was particularly proud of, it just was.
So gorgeous Olivia has always longed for but been ignored by gorgeous Zach. Yeah, he's phenomenally hot too.
In high school, he’d been considered the ultimate catch with girls falling for and after him like a line of dominoes. And I swear from the way the eyes of every girl in class are currently fixed on him, he’s all set to retain that status.
At six-two, Zach’s the quintessential quarterback—all broad shoulders, narrow hips and lean, well-defined muscles. His hair is the closest shade to black without actually being black, close-cropped at the sides and back, and long enough on the top to give a hint of natural wave. He has a habit of running his hand through it and considering its slightly mussed appearance, he’d been recently doing just that.
At the start of When in Paris, Olivia is shocked, freaked, and--oh God look at his wickedly beautiful eyes--to realize that Zach is also a freshman at the small college she's attending. The school is 300 miles away and in a different state than where they went to high school. She can't understand what he's doing there. He was the star of their high school football team, his older brother is the quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, and Zach had been heavily recruited by many of college football's most storied programs. The college Olivia--and apparently Zach--attends is Warwick University, a decent Division I school but nothing like the Big Ten schools where Olivia had thought he'd go. Poor Olivia, all she wanted to do was go to college and let boys admire her gorgeousness, do well in her classes, hang out with her supremely beautiful best friend April, and go to Paris over fall break with her French class. Now Zach and all his not-for-Olivia yumminess is here and it's just awful. (Cue a heavy on the base song by Massive Attack.)
That's Olivia's view on her relationship with Zach. Zach's is utterly different. We know this because each chapter changes point of view.
Zach has always jonesed for Olivia but he's not allowed to like her because--and there's a BIG mystery going on here kids--his family hates her mother. As Zach explains,
I don’t know Olivia that well and she may be hot as all hell, but she’s always come across as pretty reserved. Some of the kids at school accused her of being stuck up; the girls for obvious reasons—jealousy—and the guys’ probably bad-mouthed her because she shot them down.
In our junior year, things got worse when Olivia returned from summer break looking noticeably bigger. Rumor had it she’d gotten implants, so she’d been stuck-up and fake and shallow.
Publically, I chose to reserve judgment, but inside I’d latched on to the idea like a burr on a horse’s tail. Just as I’d thought, the apple really didn’t fall far from the tree. I decided she must be just like her mother, which supported the reasons I didn’t like her—couldn’t like her. There’d just been one problem, not only was she gorgeous but, real or bought and paid for, she’d had a first-class rack to boot. Truly a winning combination.
So, Olivia of the supermodel face and stunning boobs and Zach of the gorgeous face and rock hard abs must now face the horrible truth. Their high school peers and Zach's inexplicably closed-minded parents aren't here. Zach's totally off her rocker high school girl friend Ashley isn't here. Zach and Olivia have, gasp, a French class together. They have no choice but to end up in bed as soon as the plot can be forced to allow them to do so. (But only after Olivia has a "They're real and they're spectacular" show and tell moment with Zach.)
Zach, in order to escape fall break at home where his bullying dad will harangue him to switch to a better football program, decides to go to Paris with the French class. Olivia arranges to sit next to Zach on the flight and, by the time they've landed in the City of Love, Zach decides to seduce Olivia.
But now that we’re talking, I can’t help thinking more and more that we can do something more like a friends-with-benefits thing. I mean, I can’t see her as a one-night-stand. I like her. I can talk to her and she wants to learn more about my two favorite sports. But I’m not looking to get serious with anyone. Not now. Not so soon after Ashley.
“No problem,” I assure her. “I’ll teach you everything you need to know in Paris.”
Her eyes flit to mine and then she glances away. Only when a blush washes over her face do I realize what I just said and how it could be taken. But she’s right, I won’t mind teaching her a thing or two about that too.
Olivia does indeed let Zach teach her zee ways of love in Paris--which, as portrayed by Ms. Kendall, might as well have been anywhere. And before you know it, Olivia's in love and Zach's loving getting laid and getting his hands regularly on her (real) bountiful boobs. But, apparently what happens in Paris, has a different meaning out of Paris and all it takes, when Olivia and Zach return home, is for Olivia to use the B word (boyfriend) to make Zach abandon tail and run. (Poor baby, he's still scarred by his crazy constantly texting him ex-girlfriend--her irresponsible parents have begged him not to set possibly suicidal Ashley off and Zach feels responsible for her sanity.)
There are tears, jealous fights, painful discovered truths about family, and more description than I ever want to read again about how hot, gorgeous, sexy, firm, built, and lickable these New Adults are. The angst in the book has the heft of a poorly written term paper and is equally as interesting. The plot is on the silly side and is in large part propelled by parents who really should know better.
The world faced by the 17 to 25 cohort is fascinating, challenging, and in constant flux. I usually enjoy talking to the New Adults I know. Their efforts to define their lives and their realm is interesting. Gorgeous New Adults who don't struggle with money, don't worry about the future, and have the self-awareness of Gwyneth Paltrow aren't interesting. I didn't like either "don't hate me because I'm beautiful" Olivia or "all these chicks want me, what's a stud to do" Zach. Yes, both have redemptive moments, but, overall, neither character is believable or engaging. The world Ms. Kendall places them in--whether in Paris or in the USA--is presented with the depth of Matt Lauer interview.
Dear Author has reviewed several New Adult books positively in the past year. I had hoped my first venture in doing so would be enjoyable. No such luck for poor Old Adult me. If you are looking to read a great New Adult book, look away from When in Paris. I give it a C-.
I'm off to find a New Adult to unload the dishwasher,
Dabney
January 1, 2019
My first book by Beverley Kendall. The third book in the series with many believable cameo characters. Reading as a stand-alone felt seamless.
The story is a page-turner! It's been a while since I've read an emotionally charged romance. I suggest have a handkerchief available.
Alex is an unforgettable character. He reminds me that life does not always give us a reason to smile. I grieved for him.
Charlotte constricted by historical social mores. A brokenhearted runaway bride! She had good reasons for disappearing. She never feels safe regarding her ethnicity. She knows her socie standing is at risk, her family will be ostracize and the man she love might reject her.
I felt a few mechanical modern undertones. Fortunately, the story overshadowed the errors
The bedroom door is wide open. Steamy but not erotica.
4.5
The story is a page-turner! It's been a while since I've read an emotionally charged romance. I suggest have a handkerchief available.
Alex is an unforgettable character. He reminds me that life does not always give us a reason to smile. I grieved for him.
Charlotte constricted by historical social mores. A brokenhearted runaway bride! She had good reasons for disappearing. She never feels safe regarding her ethnicity. She knows her socie standing is at risk, her family will be ostracize and the man she love might reject her.
I felt a few mechanical modern undertones. Fortunately, the story overshadowed the errors
The bedroom door is wide open. Steamy but not erotica.
4.5
January 22, 2013
This was an unusual bk for me. I’m glad I persevered because I almost chucked it. It was S-L-O-W to start, the first half was a struggle and although this is considered a NA read (H/h college freshmen, sexual detail) it read a bit young and more like YA. A lot of juvenile game playing – The H/h looking/not looking at each other, misunderstandings on who did/didn’t like each other. When the bk finally picked up I had a hard time keeping the older age in mind. I did like the alternating POV’s, and when Zach finally got his act together he’s one sexy sweetheart. I’d say I enjoyed their story well enough. Some of Zach’s fellow football players were immature with crude T & A comments about some of the female characters/the h and that “gonna get me some” mentality. UGH! I’d have to give Zach/Olivia’s story a 3.0-3.5 stars. Novella to be released about Olivia’s friend Rebecca and her ex, with bk 2 featuring Olivia’s roomie April, a part time model, and Zach’s roommate Troy, a football player. The April/Troy story in this bk was one of long time friends that both very much want each other but think the other doesn’t. Verdict’s still out on whether I give these a peak.
December 5, 2013
This book has you riveted from beginning to end. The story of the broken hero who fights his way back from a broken heart to find that his love is as strong as ever plus some and a heroine who makes a bad choice for the right reasons. You live every heart and gut wrenching moment and find yourself cheering for both sides even against one another lol. It was so good I had to read it twice and even knowing what was coming the second time I was still surprised. A good author writes a memorable book, a GREAT author writes an unforgettable book that lives in your memories for days, months and even years to come. Beverly Kendall is a GREAT author!An Heir of Deception
February 19, 2019
In a word, ANNOYING.
And a great reminder why I don't buy this author's books.
I don't understand how Alex could ever forget or forgive what Charlotte made him miss of his child's life, while her "friend" Lucas was the father figure. Her having the baby and dashing off to another continent without saying anything to him despite her DEEP LOVE for him is ridiculous.
Dislike the h intensely. Don't recall Books 1-2 but read in other reviews that Alex is a disappointment too. Glad I didn't read them then. Maybe this would get a 1 star if I had.
And a great reminder why I don't buy this author's books.
I don't understand how Alex could ever forget or forgive what Charlotte made him miss of his child's life, while her "friend" Lucas was the father figure. Her having the baby and dashing off to another continent without saying anything to him despite her DEEP LOVE for him is ridiculous.
Dislike the h intensely. Don't recall Books 1-2 but read in other reviews that Alex is a disappointment too. Glad I didn't read them then. Maybe this would get a 1 star if I had.
February 19, 2014
This book was "okay"... I didn't "hate" it, so I won't write a scathing review. There were a few parts of the novel that I DID like, but there were even more parts that left me feeling indifferent. At times, the writing was choppy & lacked fluidity.... Furthermore, the novel ended somewhat abruptly, & in my opinion, the story seemed "unfinished." *2.5/5 stars (at most)*
Want to read
February 21, 2012This is one of the most anticipated books, I really looking forward to this release.
January 2, 2024
angsty, super sensual and a little crazy at times. so satisfying not have to read into character’s feelings. The H is torn up with love for the h. Passion is over the top in a
great emotional way.
great emotional way.
July 23, 2016
I've given this a B- at AAR, so that's 3.5 stars here.
An Heir of Deception is the third book in Beverley Kendall’s Elusive Lords series. While I don’t think it’s absolutely necessary to have read the previous books in the series, several of the characters from those books appear in this one and it might be useful to have a rough idea of who is who in advance of reading.
This entry in the series centers around Alex Cartwright, Marquis of Avondale, who, at the beginning of the story, has just arrived at St. Paul’s Cathedral for his wedding to Miss Charlotte Rutherford, the illegitimate sister of James, the hero of the first novel in this set, A Sinful Surrender. The problem, however, is that while the groom has arrived, the bride has not. Alex has been abandoned at the altar without explanation, and his life falls apart.
We then jump forward five years, and Charlotte reappears completely unexpectedly at her brother’s country house. We discover that she had fled to America on her wedding day and that she has returned to England only because she has received (false) news that her twin sister Catherine is seriously ill.
We also learn that Alex spent three years attempting to drown his sorrows in copious amounts of drink and tried to forget about Charlotte by screwing his way through loads of women; but no amount of debauchery could cure his bitterness or heartache. After a traumatic experience, he claws his way back onto the straight and narrow, and has been on the wagon for the two years immediately preceding Charlotte’s return.
But when Charlotte arrives, she is not alone. She has brought her four-year-old son with her, and although she tries to keep the truth from Alex, it is not long before he realizes that the boy is his son. He is devastated all over again. Not only did Charlotte abandon him, she kept the existence of his son from him and deprived him of the first four years of the boy’s life.
He is determined never to let Charlotte near him emotionally again. She ripped out his heart and stomped on it once, and he isn’t prepared to risk that kind of pain and humiliation at her hands once more. When she finally tries to explain her reasons to him (she was being blackmailed), he doesn’t want to know. While I can’t blame him – he went through hell after she left – I do hate a story that relies too heavily on artificial drama. While Alex’s view is that it’s too late for explanations and that whatever Charlotte tells him won’t make a difference, I do find it hard to believe that he could have had no interest in hearing what she had to say, given the effect her desertion had on him.
The one person who can get through Alex’s barriers at this point in the story is his son, and I thought their relationship was very nicely developed. Alex is determined that Nicholas be recognized as his heir, but he is illegitimate, and even if Alex and Charlotte were to marry, it would not legitimize their son.
So Alex hits upon another idea, which, for me, was a big problem in terms of the plot. Alex decides to let it be known that he and Charlotte had actually been married a week or so before they were due to have their big society wedding, and that she’d run off as the result of some disagreement or other, already pregnant with their child. Alex brings several other people in on this deception as he needs to falsify a marriage license and parish records saying that a marriage took place when it did not.
That strikes me as a dangerous ploy –exposure could mean ruin – and for his cousin (a vicar) and his two closest friends to put their signatures to it involves them in the forgery, and would surely mean a similar penalty for them as well.
Muddying the waters even further, Alex’s mother later suggests that he and Charlotte really should get married, as despite the acceptance of the false documents, they have never actually stood before God and this congregation to make their vows. That makes sense, but what doesn’t is that Alex went to all the trouble of falsifying a marriage licence in order to make Nicholas legitimate –but he agrees to marry Charlotte very publicly at St. George’s, Hanover Square (the favored location for Regency society weddings). They could have easily have had a private ceremony and otherwise maintained the fiction that they had been married at the time of Nicholas’ birth. But surely a public ceremony as good as announces the fact that they weren’t married before and brands Nicholas a bastard. It seems odd to me that one of Alex’s overriding concerns was to present his son as his legitimate issue and heir, that he perpetuated a risky deception to ensure that he was acknowledged as such, and then he blows it completely by having a public wedding.
I thought that Alex was by far the most strongly drawn and most relatable character in the book. He spent a lot of it being cold and unpleasant towards Charlotte, it’s true, but in my opinion, that seemed quite realistic. She ran off without explanation, didn’t tell him he was a father, and deprived him of his son’s formative years. (I freely admit that I may be sympathizing more with Alex on this issue because I’m a parent myself and I know how much he would have missed.) And when Charlotte is finally able to get Alex to listen to her reasons for leaving, he is shattered yet again at the thought that she didn’t trust in his love enough to believe that he was prepared to weather whatever scandal may have ensued as a result.
While she continues to make revelations that cause Alex more pain and upset, Charlotte makes it very clear that she still desires him physically and wants them to try to have a real marriage. It’s no wonder the man tries to keep his distance!
Although he is determined not to let her in again, Alex finds himself fairly climbing the walls with sexual frustration and eventually decides he might as well give in to his desires and takes Charlotte to bed. Repeatedly. But even then, Alex is adamant that the sex all they can have. However, their physical intimacy encourages an emotional intimacy and it’s not long before the atmosphere between them begins to thaw and both of them start to believe that things can work out between them.
Running alongside the story of Alex and Charlotte and their rekindling relationship is a secondary romance between Charlotte’s sister, Catherine, and the American businessman, Lucas Beaumont, and the search for the mysterious blackmailer who had sent Charlotte the letter which caused her to run away to America. I felt that this part of the plot was the least successful element of the book. Even though it is mentioned often, and I was genuinely surprised when the identity of the letter-writer was revealed, I don’t think it was adequately supported and it felt a little too out of the blue.
There are another couple of road-bumps along the way to the HEA, however, one of which is the fact that Charlotte, realizing she is pregnant and remembering Alex’s insistence that he didn’t want more children with her, begins to withdraw from him, which makes him instantly suspicious and afraid that she is going to leave again. I thought that her fears over telling Alex about the pregnancy seemed rather out of character for her, as for most of the book she has been quite strong-willed and determined. It just felt like a late attempt to introduce another “will-they, won’t-they” element into a story that really didn’t need it.
The writing, despite a somewhat anachronistic feel at times, was fairly good – although I was mystified by the author’s persistent use of “a’ tall” when she meant “at all” – and the characterization was, for the most part, consistent. Alex was the character who changed most of all, from a cold, almost unreachable man overwhelmed with his fear of betrayal, to someone who learns to trust and to love again. Charlotte was more problematic for me, because although she freely admits that everything she’s done was wrong – running away, not telling Alex he was a father, staying away for so long – she doesn’t seem to understand how deeply she hurt the man she purports to still love, and frequently manages to hurt him afresh.
I would, however, still give An Heir of Deception a qualified recommendation, as despite the inconsistencies I’ve pointed out, I found it to be an entertaining read. Alex was a wonderful hero who had to work hard to get his HEA; and even if I felt the heroine didn’t really deserve him, I was glad to see him get the girl and get the life he’d longed for.
An Heir of Deception is the third book in Beverley Kendall’s Elusive Lords series. While I don’t think it’s absolutely necessary to have read the previous books in the series, several of the characters from those books appear in this one and it might be useful to have a rough idea of who is who in advance of reading.
This entry in the series centers around Alex Cartwright, Marquis of Avondale, who, at the beginning of the story, has just arrived at St. Paul’s Cathedral for his wedding to Miss Charlotte Rutherford, the illegitimate sister of James, the hero of the first novel in this set, A Sinful Surrender. The problem, however, is that while the groom has arrived, the bride has not. Alex has been abandoned at the altar without explanation, and his life falls apart.
We then jump forward five years, and Charlotte reappears completely unexpectedly at her brother’s country house. We discover that she had fled to America on her wedding day and that she has returned to England only because she has received (false) news that her twin sister Catherine is seriously ill.
We also learn that Alex spent three years attempting to drown his sorrows in copious amounts of drink and tried to forget about Charlotte by screwing his way through loads of women; but no amount of debauchery could cure his bitterness or heartache. After a traumatic experience, he claws his way back onto the straight and narrow, and has been on the wagon for the two years immediately preceding Charlotte’s return.
But when Charlotte arrives, she is not alone. She has brought her four-year-old son with her, and although she tries to keep the truth from Alex, it is not long before he realizes that the boy is his son. He is devastated all over again. Not only did Charlotte abandon him, she kept the existence of his son from him and deprived him of the first four years of the boy’s life.
He is determined never to let Charlotte near him emotionally again. She ripped out his heart and stomped on it once, and he isn’t prepared to risk that kind of pain and humiliation at her hands once more. When she finally tries to explain her reasons to him (she was being blackmailed), he doesn’t want to know. While I can’t blame him – he went through hell after she left – I do hate a story that relies too heavily on artificial drama. While Alex’s view is that it’s too late for explanations and that whatever Charlotte tells him won’t make a difference, I do find it hard to believe that he could have had no interest in hearing what she had to say, given the effect her desertion had on him.
The one person who can get through Alex’s barriers at this point in the story is his son, and I thought their relationship was very nicely developed. Alex is determined that Nicholas be recognized as his heir, but he is illegitimate, and even if Alex and Charlotte were to marry, it would not legitimize their son.
So Alex hits upon another idea, which, for me, was a big problem in terms of the plot. Alex decides to let it be known that he and Charlotte had actually been married a week or so before they were due to have their big society wedding, and that she’d run off as the result of some disagreement or other, already pregnant with their child. Alex brings several other people in on this deception as he needs to falsify a marriage license and parish records saying that a marriage took place when it did not.
That strikes me as a dangerous ploy –exposure could mean ruin – and for his cousin (a vicar) and his two closest friends to put their signatures to it involves them in the forgery, and would surely mean a similar penalty for them as well.
Muddying the waters even further, Alex’s mother later suggests that he and Charlotte really should get married, as despite the acceptance of the false documents, they have never actually stood before God and this congregation to make their vows. That makes sense, but what doesn’t is that Alex went to all the trouble of falsifying a marriage licence in order to make Nicholas legitimate –but he agrees to marry Charlotte very publicly at St. George’s, Hanover Square (the favored location for Regency society weddings). They could have easily have had a private ceremony and otherwise maintained the fiction that they had been married at the time of Nicholas’ birth. But surely a public ceremony as good as announces the fact that they weren’t married before and brands Nicholas a bastard. It seems odd to me that one of Alex’s overriding concerns was to present his son as his legitimate issue and heir, that he perpetuated a risky deception to ensure that he was acknowledged as such, and then he blows it completely by having a public wedding.
I thought that Alex was by far the most strongly drawn and most relatable character in the book. He spent a lot of it being cold and unpleasant towards Charlotte, it’s true, but in my opinion, that seemed quite realistic. She ran off without explanation, didn’t tell him he was a father, and deprived him of his son’s formative years. (I freely admit that I may be sympathizing more with Alex on this issue because I’m a parent myself and I know how much he would have missed.) And when Charlotte is finally able to get Alex to listen to her reasons for leaving, he is shattered yet again at the thought that she didn’t trust in his love enough to believe that he was prepared to weather whatever scandal may have ensued as a result.
While she continues to make revelations that cause Alex more pain and upset, Charlotte makes it very clear that she still desires him physically and wants them to try to have a real marriage. It’s no wonder the man tries to keep his distance!
Although he is determined not to let her in again, Alex finds himself fairly climbing the walls with sexual frustration and eventually decides he might as well give in to his desires and takes Charlotte to bed. Repeatedly. But even then, Alex is adamant that the sex all they can have. However, their physical intimacy encourages an emotional intimacy and it’s not long before the atmosphere between them begins to thaw and both of them start to believe that things can work out between them.
Running alongside the story of Alex and Charlotte and their rekindling relationship is a secondary romance between Charlotte’s sister, Catherine, and the American businessman, Lucas Beaumont, and the search for the mysterious blackmailer who had sent Charlotte the letter which caused her to run away to America. I felt that this part of the plot was the least successful element of the book. Even though it is mentioned often, and I was genuinely surprised when the identity of the letter-writer was revealed, I don’t think it was adequately supported and it felt a little too out of the blue.
There are another couple of road-bumps along the way to the HEA, however, one of which is the fact that Charlotte, realizing she is pregnant and remembering Alex’s insistence that he didn’t want more children with her, begins to withdraw from him, which makes him instantly suspicious and afraid that she is going to leave again. I thought that her fears over telling Alex about the pregnancy seemed rather out of character for her, as for most of the book she has been quite strong-willed and determined. It just felt like a late attempt to introduce another “will-they, won’t-they” element into a story that really didn’t need it.
The writing, despite a somewhat anachronistic feel at times, was fairly good – although I was mystified by the author’s persistent use of “a’ tall” when she meant “at all” – and the characterization was, for the most part, consistent. Alex was the character who changed most of all, from a cold, almost unreachable man overwhelmed with his fear of betrayal, to someone who learns to trust and to love again. Charlotte was more problematic for me, because although she freely admits that everything she’s done was wrong – running away, not telling Alex he was a father, staying away for so long – she doesn’t seem to understand how deeply she hurt the man she purports to still love, and frequently manages to hurt him afresh.
I would, however, still give An Heir of Deception a qualified recommendation, as despite the inconsistencies I’ve pointed out, I found it to be an entertaining read. Alex was a wonderful hero who had to work hard to get his HEA; and even if I felt the heroine didn’t really deserve him, I was glad to see him get the girl and get the life he’d longed for.
April 29, 2012
I've been eagerly awaiting the release of this book for over a year and I was really nervous that it wouldn't live up to my expectations. I needn't have worried because this book was so good, easily my favorite from this author. There was just so much angst and emotion that I just couldn't put the book down.
Alex Cartwright is a man scorned. After being left at the altar five years ago by the woman he loved, he has been living in a self made hell. He was distraught and in pain and the only way he knew how to deal with everything was by drinking it all away. After living in debauchery and drinking himself into a stupor for days on end he decided to turns his life around and has been living in sobriety for the past two years.
Charlotte has been living in painful regret for the past five years. Days before her wedding to Alex, Charlotte received a letter threatening to expose a family secret that could ruin not only her family and her, but could potentially tarnish the dukedom Alex is set to inherit. She leaves thinking that it will save everyone from the painful truth.
Now five years later, Charlotte has returned home thinking that her beloved sister has fallen ill and taken a turn for the worse. When she sees her sister alive and healthy she decides to explain her hasty actions and the secret that she's been keeping from everyone. When she left she was pregnant with Alex's child and she has kept it a secret from everyone. Now that she is home she plans to tell everyone the truth, including the reason why she fled in the first place. Though while explaining, While in the process of explaining Alex inadvertently walks in and spots Charlotte. All of the pain both have been suffering with for the past five years rushes up to the surface. Alex, not wanting to show he's affected in the least decides to not even acknowledge Charlotte and leaves. On his way out he spots a child crying in a carriage and goes to investigate. When he see the boy he can hardly believe his eyes. The child looks just like his brother did as a boy. Immediately he knows he is the father and takes the boy in to confront Charlotte.
Alex thought he was hurt before when Charlotte left, but the pain and betrayal he feels now about not knowing he had a son and being kept from him is indescribable. Not only is he angry that she left but he just can't believe she denied him his son, and rightful heir. Alex decides the only thing he can do to fix everything, is to forge a marriage license between Charlotte and himself and just make it seem as if they were estranged for the last five years. That way his son can inherit and he can be with him.
Charlotte feels horrible for deceiving Alex but she thought she was doing the right thing. She is willing to do anything to make things right with Alex. She still loves him greatly and wants nothing more than to be his wife in the truest sense of the word. If that means she has to bide her time until he is ready to accept the truth, then so be it. She loves him and she will do anything she can to earn back his trust.
I found this book to be filled with so much raw emotion. Your heart just breaks for Alex and you can't help but feel hurt and betrayed with him. It's rare to see a man so in love with a woman and when you hear some of the things he went through in his despair you weep for him and what he lost. I found that even when he was being cruel to Charlotte that I couldn't be mad with him. He's just so raw.
With Charlotte I found her at times to be slightly aggravating. I understand why she left, it just annoyed me that she is so distrustful of Alex's feeling towards her. I just wanted her to trust him and the love he felt for her.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved all of the emotion and grittyness of it. Charlotte might have annoyed me but I still loved her and Alex together and I'm so happy that finally got their HEA. I definitely can't wait to read Beverley's next book.
Alex Cartwright is a man scorned. After being left at the altar five years ago by the woman he loved, he has been living in a self made hell. He was distraught and in pain and the only way he knew how to deal with everything was by drinking it all away. After living in debauchery and drinking himself into a stupor for days on end he decided to turns his life around and has been living in sobriety for the past two years.
Charlotte has been living in painful regret for the past five years. Days before her wedding to Alex, Charlotte received a letter threatening to expose a family secret that could ruin not only her family and her, but could potentially tarnish the dukedom Alex is set to inherit. She leaves thinking that it will save everyone from the painful truth.
Now five years later, Charlotte has returned home thinking that her beloved sister has fallen ill and taken a turn for the worse. When she sees her sister alive and healthy she decides to explain her hasty actions and the secret that she's been keeping from everyone. When she left she was pregnant with Alex's child and she has kept it a secret from everyone. Now that she is home she plans to tell everyone the truth, including the reason why she fled in the first place. Though while explaining, While in the process of explaining Alex inadvertently walks in and spots Charlotte. All of the pain both have been suffering with for the past five years rushes up to the surface. Alex, not wanting to show he's affected in the least decides to not even acknowledge Charlotte and leaves. On his way out he spots a child crying in a carriage and goes to investigate. When he see the boy he can hardly believe his eyes. The child looks just like his brother did as a boy. Immediately he knows he is the father and takes the boy in to confront Charlotte.
Alex thought he was hurt before when Charlotte left, but the pain and betrayal he feels now about not knowing he had a son and being kept from him is indescribable. Not only is he angry that she left but he just can't believe she denied him his son, and rightful heir. Alex decides the only thing he can do to fix everything, is to forge a marriage license between Charlotte and himself and just make it seem as if they were estranged for the last five years. That way his son can inherit and he can be with him.
Charlotte feels horrible for deceiving Alex but she thought she was doing the right thing. She is willing to do anything to make things right with Alex. She still loves him greatly and wants nothing more than to be his wife in the truest sense of the word. If that means she has to bide her time until he is ready to accept the truth, then so be it. She loves him and she will do anything she can to earn back his trust.
I found this book to be filled with so much raw emotion. Your heart just breaks for Alex and you can't help but feel hurt and betrayed with him. It's rare to see a man so in love with a woman and when you hear some of the things he went through in his despair you weep for him and what he lost. I found that even when he was being cruel to Charlotte that I couldn't be mad with him. He's just so raw.
With Charlotte I found her at times to be slightly aggravating. I understand why she left, it just annoyed me that she is so distrustful of Alex's feeling towards her. I just wanted her to trust him and the love he felt for her.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved all of the emotion and grittyness of it. Charlotte might have annoyed me but I still loved her and Alex together and I'm so happy that finally got their HEA. I definitely can't wait to read Beverley's next book.
Read
April 21, 2013Kindle cheapie
This book wasn't my thing. It's mostly pages upon pages of the lusty bodily reactions and thoughts between the two main characters to and about each other. Their relationship felt pretty shallow so I never got a sense of very much besides lust between the two of them. I also get bored by page after page of the beauty and perfectness of both of the two's looks (and all of their friends are exceptional looking as well apparently). In real life- everyone one in the world doesn't go completely mental and gaga over all the same people. Every single girl wanted to throw themselves at the guy and every guy had lusty thoughts for the girl in this book. That's just really silly and doesn't happen like that in real life. We all have different tastes and preferences and there isn't one person who gets everyone's all encompassing lust and desire the way these two did. I notice this as a trend in a lot of books lately but it just reads as completely unreal and silly to me. I don't think it bothers other people like it does me so decide for yourself.
But if you like a book filled with perfect looking people and pages of lusty thoughts that eventually turn into a sort of relationship then go for it. There isn't much of a plot so go in forewarned. The book didn't hold my interest and I had to put it down often. I am not sure why I finished it except that I have a hard time putting books down.
This book wasn't my thing. It's mostly pages upon pages of the lusty bodily reactions and thoughts between the two main characters to and about each other. Their relationship felt pretty shallow so I never got a sense of very much besides lust between the two of them. I also get bored by page after page of the beauty and perfectness of both of the two's looks (and all of their friends are exceptional looking as well apparently). In real life- everyone one in the world doesn't go completely mental and gaga over all the same people. Every single girl wanted to throw themselves at the guy and every guy had lusty thoughts for the girl in this book. That's just really silly and doesn't happen like that in real life. We all have different tastes and preferences and there isn't one person who gets everyone's all encompassing lust and desire the way these two did. I notice this as a trend in a lot of books lately but it just reads as completely unreal and silly to me. I don't think it bothers other people like it does me so decide for yourself.
But if you like a book filled with perfect looking people and pages of lusty thoughts that eventually turn into a sort of relationship then go for it. There isn't much of a plot so go in forewarned. The book didn't hold my interest and I had to put it down often. I am not sure why I finished it except that I have a hard time putting books down.
October 18, 2016
Olivia Montgomery is looking forward to her freshman year in college, getting away from the bullying she incurred in high school. Her first class she cannot believe it when she sees Zach Pearson, football star and hottie. For a reason she could never explain, Zach hated her, she is not sure why but it always bugged her. Looks like college will be the same though as Zach sees right through her with a grim look on his face.
Zach has his reasons for keeping Olivia at a distance. When they are thrown together though because of common friends, Zach agrees to be friends. When Olivia calls him on his harsh friendship, Zach lets his feelings for her family and when he does he finds himself falling for Olivia. Can he have a relationship with her despite what her family did, and will she ever find out the secret he has been holding?
This was an exceptional read. I thought that this was a complicated story and like that you had counter views of what was happening. I felt for Olivia because she doesn't deserve the treatment she received from Jake and others. Definitely will pick up more from this talented author.
Zach has his reasons for keeping Olivia at a distance. When they are thrown together though because of common friends, Zach agrees to be friends. When Olivia calls him on his harsh friendship, Zach lets his feelings for her family and when he does he finds himself falling for Olivia. Can he have a relationship with her despite what her family did, and will she ever find out the secret he has been holding?
This was an exceptional read. I thought that this was a complicated story and like that you had counter views of what was happening. I felt for Olivia because she doesn't deserve the treatment she received from Jake and others. Definitely will pick up more from this talented author.
December 20, 2023
I was drawn in by the premise, but the latter half was disappointing when it came to the lack of detail about how race affected multiple characters, as well as the reason for the conflict in the first place.
March 5, 2013
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 Stars
Over the last few months, I’ve enjoyed a few young adult and new adult books which to be honest surprises me. I hardly fit the demographic for these stories and I didn’t even enjoy them when I was the demographic, but perhaps the story lines are better now or perhaps my age has given me perspective, whatever the case I find myself intrigued by this genre. When In Paris is the first book in the Language of Love series and it is a stellar offering from author, Beverley Kendall.
This is an adversary to lovers’ story that begins 4 years prior to the start of this book. Olivia Montgomery is ready to begin a new chapter of her life and get away from the lies and pettiness of high school. She’s ready to move on and forget about everything and everyone including her high school crush, Zachary Pearson. When Zach walks into her French class she tries to convince herself it’s a dream, but it soon becomes a reality of epic proportions.
It was hard not to enjoy this story as both characters are extremely likeable. Despite that, they both have some family issues and life issues. Olivia can’t decide on a major and harbors some resentment in regards to her mother. Although she had a fairly steady boyfriend in high school, she’s been somewhat sheltered and she has definite ideas in regards to intimacy. Zach is attending college on a football scholarship; he chose this school against his overbearing father’s wishes. He’s dealing with his ex-girlfriend who can’t seem to understand she’s an ex and a roommate who is friends with Olivia’s best friend. He has always wanted Olivia but due to some family complications he’s steered clear of her all through high school, now that they are thrust together so often he’s finding it harder and harder to stay away.
This story is written from both Olivia and Zach’s point of view. I absolutely loved the journey these two take to be together. It’s a long and winding road filled with ups, downs, bumps and quite a few pot holes. The emotions and feelings these two share are well thought out and very believable. I like that we got to see this story from both sides, it brought realism to the story you don’t always get. It also proves that no matter the age, men and women view sex and love differently. That’s not to say one is right and the other is wrong but it’s definitely a point of contention. I won’t lie there were several moments throughout this book I wondered if they’d make it because they deal with some pretty big issues especially since they have the past that they do.
When In Paris is a great story of first real love and it serves as a reminder that getting there isn’t always easy. It takes time, communication, trust, and understanding something both of these characters learn along the way. This book will take you back to that rush of new love, of simply wanting to be with each other, of new intimacy, and everything that comes with it. While this is the first story in this series, it won’t be my last…it looks like I have another new adult author to follow.
4.5 Stars
Over the last few months, I’ve enjoyed a few young adult and new adult books which to be honest surprises me. I hardly fit the demographic for these stories and I didn’t even enjoy them when I was the demographic, but perhaps the story lines are better now or perhaps my age has given me perspective, whatever the case I find myself intrigued by this genre. When In Paris is the first book in the Language of Love series and it is a stellar offering from author, Beverley Kendall.
This is an adversary to lovers’ story that begins 4 years prior to the start of this book. Olivia Montgomery is ready to begin a new chapter of her life and get away from the lies and pettiness of high school. She’s ready to move on and forget about everything and everyone including her high school crush, Zachary Pearson. When Zach walks into her French class she tries to convince herself it’s a dream, but it soon becomes a reality of epic proportions.
It was hard not to enjoy this story as both characters are extremely likeable. Despite that, they both have some family issues and life issues. Olivia can’t decide on a major and harbors some resentment in regards to her mother. Although she had a fairly steady boyfriend in high school, she’s been somewhat sheltered and she has definite ideas in regards to intimacy. Zach is attending college on a football scholarship; he chose this school against his overbearing father’s wishes. He’s dealing with his ex-girlfriend who can’t seem to understand she’s an ex and a roommate who is friends with Olivia’s best friend. He has always wanted Olivia but due to some family complications he’s steered clear of her all through high school, now that they are thrust together so often he’s finding it harder and harder to stay away.
This story is written from both Olivia and Zach’s point of view. I absolutely loved the journey these two take to be together. It’s a long and winding road filled with ups, downs, bumps and quite a few pot holes. The emotions and feelings these two share are well thought out and very believable. I like that we got to see this story from both sides, it brought realism to the story you don’t always get. It also proves that no matter the age, men and women view sex and love differently. That’s not to say one is right and the other is wrong but it’s definitely a point of contention. I won’t lie there were several moments throughout this book I wondered if they’d make it because they deal with some pretty big issues especially since they have the past that they do.
When In Paris is a great story of first real love and it serves as a reminder that getting there isn’t always easy. It takes time, communication, trust, and understanding something both of these characters learn along the way. This book will take you back to that rush of new love, of simply wanting to be with each other, of new intimacy, and everything that comes with it. While this is the first story in this series, it won’t be my last…it looks like I have another new adult author to follow.
November 17, 2023
Missy smiled and when her gaze swung to Charlotte, she noticed she was unusually quiet, her blue eyes glued to where Alex stood cooing over the baby. The girls were now sixteen-hardly girls any longer-making them the same age as she had been when she'd fallen deep in love with James. Lord, her husband would kill Alex, she thought with a smile, but it would be such a fitting retribution.
Since I've read that part of the epilogue of Sinful Surrender which is the Book 1 of this series, questions were running through my mind.
Is there a Charlotte and Alex in these series? Isn't she too young for him?
And then, my questions were answered by this book with a big, capital, smashing YES! Well, I just hadn't expected a fast forward for this one. The book does not cover their courting or how their feelings developed but them, after five years since their supposed-to-be-wedding. Love could truly indeed destroy someone's life. It saddened me how Alex transformed. From being a carefree, warm and charming man into a cold, aloof and very controlled man. That gives me so much heartache!
This is truly a beautiful heartbreaking yet fulfilling story. There is also an element of suspense! I really couldn't guess what could be reason of her departure five years ago when I started reading. Honestly, I expected worse from the true reason. And then, after it was revealed, there then, the mystery of who sent letter. Again, I didn't expect it would her. (Oh I wouldn't spoil you for those who haven't read this book!)And the scene where they both told Nicholas that Alex is his father had me crying like crazy even if I tried my hardest not to cry.
I've grown to love all the characters in these series and it's so sad that it now ended! The author is able to arouse too many emotions from the audience with her books and for that, I salute her! Superb Series.
Since I've read that part of the epilogue of Sinful Surrender which is the Book 1 of this series, questions were running through my mind.
Is there a Charlotte and Alex in these series? Isn't she too young for him?
And then, my questions were answered by this book with a big, capital, smashing YES! Well, I just hadn't expected a fast forward for this one. The book does not cover their courting or how their feelings developed but them, after five years since their supposed-to-be-wedding. Love could truly indeed destroy someone's life. It saddened me how Alex transformed. From being a carefree, warm and charming man into a cold, aloof and very controlled man. That gives me so much heartache!
This is truly a beautiful heartbreaking yet fulfilling story. There is also an element of suspense! I really couldn't guess what could be reason of her departure five years ago when I started reading. Honestly, I expected worse from the true reason. And then, after it was revealed, there then, the mystery of who sent letter. Again, I didn't expect it would her. (Oh I wouldn't spoil you for those who haven't read this book!)And the scene where they both told Nicholas that Alex is his father had me crying like crazy even if I tried my hardest not to cry.
I've grown to love all the characters in these series and it's so sad that it now ended! The author is able to arouse too many emotions from the audience with her books and for that, I salute her! Superb Series.
June 13, 2012
I enjoyed this book very much. I won it for free through Goodreads. The story is about Alex Cartwright, heir to the Duke of Hastings, and the love of his life, Charlotte. On their wedding day, without any explanation, Charlotte disappeared. Alex nearly destroyed himself in his grief, but five years later he has turned a new leaf and is ready to move on. Then, Charlotte reappears with the son he never knew about. Charlotte fled because she feared that a dark family secret would be exposed, but will Alex forgive her for leaving and taking the first years of his son's life from him?
The story was very moving. Two people who loved each other learning to forgive and trust each other again. That is one of the biggest points this book has to make. Trust is important. Trust in the person you love and trust in yourself. While I did not think the secret that Charlotte fled because of was something she should have kept to herself, I could see why she did. Charlotte did not think she was good enough for Alex and did not think he could love her if he found out about her. I was very suprised by who had blackmailed Charlotte into not marrying Alex. There was a lot of grief and pain, but I enjoyed watching these characters overcome it and love again.
The story was very moving. Two people who loved each other learning to forgive and trust each other again. That is one of the biggest points this book has to make. Trust is important. Trust in the person you love and trust in yourself. While I did not think the secret that Charlotte fled because of was something she should have kept to herself, I could see why she did. Charlotte did not think she was good enough for Alex and did not think he could love her if he found out about her. I was very suprised by who had blackmailed Charlotte into not marrying Alex. There was a lot of grief and pain, but I enjoyed watching these characters overcome it and love again.
July 26, 2014
Oh Alex, I have loved you from the first moment I met you in Sinful Surrender and A Taste of Desire.
This was a heart touching story about love lost, second chances, and most of all forgiveness and understanding.
I didn't know that I would feel for Alex so much and even be mad at him till this story. I would say that I wasn't happy at Charlotte for doing what she did and that it wasn't a good reason for her to do what she did too.
But I really loved how their story came to a closing and that hopefully everything is going to go well for them.
I can not tell you how much I love this series and can not wait for the next book by Beverley for Catherine and Lucas' Story~
This was a heart touching story about love lost, second chances, and most of all forgiveness and understanding.
I didn't know that I would feel for Alex so much and even be mad at him till this story. I would say that I wasn't happy at Charlotte for doing what she did and that it wasn't a good reason for her to do what she did too.
But I really loved how their story came to a closing and that hopefully everything is going to go well for them.
I can not tell you how much I love this series and can not wait for the next book by Beverley for Catherine and Lucas' Story~
September 20, 2013
*I received a free ARC of When In Paris... from Season Publishing via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review*
This and other reviews can also be found on my blog (un)Conventional Boookviews all my reviews are originally posted on my blog.
Only For You is a typical romance, with complications that don't really have anything to do with the main characters. Olivia is a beautiful young woman, used to having boys chasing after her - all the boys apart from the one she wants. Zach has something against Olivia, but what, she has no idea, as they have never really spoken to each other.
This and other reviews can also be found on my blog (un)Conventional Boookviews all my reviews are originally posted on my blog.
Only For You is a typical romance, with complications that don't really have anything to do with the main characters. Olivia is a beautiful young woman, used to having boys chasing after her - all the boys apart from the one she wants. Zach has something against Olivia, but what, she has no idea, as they have never really spoken to each other.
March 22, 2013
Fan of college age New Adult will enjoy this one. For the most part it was okay but I felt the only reason the hero and heroine connected is because of their lust for one another. They constantly had internal monologues about how much they wanted one another. There was no real emotional connection even when they do get together.
There's some drama thrown into the mix just to shake up the story that I felt wasn't really needed and made me lower my grade, especially a secret the hero knows about regarding a family member of the heroine's that just didn't work for me.
There's some drama thrown into the mix just to shake up the story that I felt wasn't really needed and made me lower my grade, especially a secret the hero knows about regarding a family member of the heroine's that just didn't work for me.
August 29, 2014
Pretty typical of the NA genre's college football player and the sweet little virgin trope. Both, of course, are carrying backpacks full of angst, secrets and hormones! There's a side trip to Paris that upped the thrill of romance. Definitely not a love or hate category. It's just run-of-the-mill and nothing I could not have lived without reading.
This book is the first in the series that continues with secondary cast members moving into the starring roles. I'm undecided as to whether or not I'll continue on with this series.
This book is the first in the series that continues with secondary cast members moving into the starring roles. I'm undecided as to whether or not I'll continue on with this series.
February 2, 2020
Don’t know why this one didn’t show up as already been read. It was one of my first books that I read when I came back to the world of reading. The only thing I remember is how I wished that the series would have extended to her twin as well. There was potential in the twin and the friend she befriended while her sister was in America. I haven’t looked the series so it is possible that Kendall already wrote one.
Anyway, it was a good read for myself. I suggest sampling the pages before deciding.
Anyway, it was a good read for myself. I suggest sampling the pages before deciding.
April 15, 2013
Beverley Kendall, has wowed me once again with this romantic and oh so sensual tale of two college kids who fight against the sexual inuendos they have towards each other.
It's like an emotional tug of war that keeps you engaged until the end.
The sexual tension and loves scenes certainly got my pulse pounding over and over again. All those delicious flutters and this story reminded me a lot of what it felt a teenager...ah, teen love *sigh*
It's like an emotional tug of war that keeps you engaged until the end.
The sexual tension and loves scenes certainly got my pulse pounding over and over again. All those delicious flutters and this story reminded me a lot of what it felt a teenager...ah, teen love *sigh*
March 3, 2013
When I wrote Love Unexpected, I thought of a sweet guy who loved a girl no matter what. Well this book is reminiscent of that. I love sweet stories! I believe that love is supposed to be that way. Beverley Kendall has been one of my favorite authors since forever. So yes,I loved anything she writes. But this one, I had read and re-read MANY times!
no-way-jose
January 21, 2024Note to self: I did not even attempt this book. The trope of second chance, especially with a large amount of separation time is one of my least fav tropes.
End of series review: Book 1 = my favorite, brothers bff trope, Book 2 = grumpy heroine, Book 2.5 = cute short novella, Book 3 = second chance romance with secret baby.
End of series review: Book 1 = my favorite, brothers bff trope, Book 2 = grumpy heroine, Book 2.5 = cute short novella, Book 3 = second chance romance with secret baby.
May 9, 2013
C'est vraiment magnifique!!!
April 27, 2022
Not bad.
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