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Seven Years to Sin
The New York Times and USA Today bestseller.
Seven years ago, on the eve of her wedding, Lady Jessica Sheffield witnessed a scene so scandalous she could not erase it from her memory. Shocked, yet strangely titillated, she nevertheless walked down the aisle into a life serene yet unremarkable. But what she kept hidden fueled wildly imaginative and very illicit dreams. . .
Alistair Caulfield ran far from the temptation of the prim debutante--all the way to the West Indies. As a successful merchant, he has little in common with the rakehell youth Jessica once knew. But when newly widowed Jessica steps aboard his ship for a transatlantic passage, seven years' worth of denied pleasures are held in check by nothing more than a few layers of silk--and the certainty that surrender will consume them both. . .
Seven years ago, on the eve of her wedding, Lady Jessica Sheffield witnessed a scene so scandalous she could not erase it from her memory. Shocked, yet strangely titillated, she nevertheless walked down the aisle into a life serene yet unremarkable. But what she kept hidden fueled wildly imaginative and very illicit dreams. . .
Alistair Caulfield ran far from the temptation of the prim debutante--all the way to the West Indies. As a successful merchant, he has little in common with the rakehell youth Jessica once knew. But when newly widowed Jessica steps aboard his ship for a transatlantic passage, seven years' worth of denied pleasures are held in check by nothing more than a few layers of silk--and the certainty that surrender will consume them both. . .
353 pages, Paperback
First published August 30, 2011
1423 people are currently reading
17925 people want to read
About the author
Sylvia Day
121 books122k followersAcclaimed for her signature emotionally charged storytelling and the psychological complexity of her characters, Sylvia Day is a number one bestselling author in twenty-nine countries, with translations in forty-one languages and over twenty million copies of her books in print. Day is the #1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, #1 Sunday Times, #1 Globe and Mail, #1 Der Spiegel, and #1 international bestselling author of over twenty award-winning novels, including six Sunday Times, ten New York Times and thirteen USA Today bestsellers. Visit the author at sylviaday.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,325 reviews
May 22, 2014
Warning Ladies: Alistar has a dirty mouth, and a body made for sin…
Lord Baybury, aka Alistair Lucius Caulfield
Every woman wether married or single, wants a piece of Alistar. He's fine as hell, and a demon unleased in bed! Alistar is the fourth son of a Duke, and therefor has no money, and little worth. Once reduced to whoring for money under the guise of "Lucius", Alistar is now a wealthy, accomplished man. He is also decidedly single because the one woman he wants, belongs to another.
Lady Tarley, aka Jess
Lady Tarley is a year into morning her late husband. She is content to remain single and manage the Jamaican sugarcane plantation her husband has left her. What she doesn't know is that the ship she will be traveling on, is owned by the very man that she has never been able to keep her eyes off of. Alistar.
Alistar's ship is setting sail from England to Jamaica and the woman he desires above all others is listed on the manifest. His plan is set. She will be his before they port in Jamaica!!
Lady Tarley and Lord Baybury sizzle and the passion between them is undeniable. Their passion even headlined the newspaper after a masquerade ball
Ahh, I just love Silvia Day's historical romances. The plots always have the perfect balance of angst. The secondary characters have depth, and the hero and heroine are perfectly flawed. Oh, and the eroticism will melt your panties!!
Lord Baybury, aka Alistair Lucius Caulfield
Every woman wether married or single, wants a piece of Alistar. He's fine as hell, and a demon unleased in bed! Alistar is the fourth son of a Duke, and therefor has no money, and little worth. Once reduced to whoring for money under the guise of "Lucius", Alistar is now a wealthy, accomplished man. He is also decidedly single because the one woman he wants, belongs to another.
Lady Tarley, aka Jess
Lady Tarley is a year into morning her late husband. She is content to remain single and manage the Jamaican sugarcane plantation her husband has left her. What she doesn't know is that the ship she will be traveling on, is owned by the very man that she has never been able to keep her eyes off of. Alistar.
Alistar's ship is setting sail from England to Jamaica and the woman he desires above all others is listed on the manifest. His plan is set. She will be his before they port in Jamaica!!
"If I could I would remain like this indefinitely-clasped by you, held inside you, a part of you-without moving at all. When we make love, I fight climax with everything I have. I don't want to come; I do not want it to end. No matter how long I make it last, it isn't nearly long enough.
Lady Tarley and Lord Baybury sizzle and the passion between them is undeniable. Their passion even headlined the newspaper after a masquerade ball
My sympathies to the debutantes hoping to snare the magnificent marquess. The previously icy Lady T, now widowed and ablaze in red, drew the mesmerized Lord B to her like a moth to a flame. Dear Readers, the heat was palpable.
So scandalous. Now infamous. Decidedly delicious…
Ahh, I just love Silvia Day's historical romances. The plots always have the perfect balance of angst. The secondary characters have depth, and the hero and heroine are perfectly flawed. Oh, and the eroticism will melt your panties!!
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October 26, 2012
I was just chatting with a friend today about when you read a book and it works out good enough for the moment. This is probably how I'm feeling about Seven Years to Sin. The book was a pleasant read - full of great sexual chemistry and a sweet love story about two people finding love after overcoming past loss.
The start of this tale had me grinning mischievously when a very naughty voyeuristic scene happened right off the bat. I knew the stage was being set for a future series of events that were bound to bring this moment back to light.
There were many things about Seven Years which worked out well for me. I liked the idea of two people getting to know one another again while trapped on a ship together (although now I just want to go read a pirate bodice ripper because I was hoping for more of a high seas vibe).
As a historical, the fare was pretty standard. I've read better, I've read worse. I'm no expert judge of how much detail is accurate or not for the time period, so I leave those aspects to the people who know more about these things. I have to say that I missed some of the more prominent banter and wit which I've experienced in other historical romances. Truly, the strength in this story leaned more on the broken pasts of our characters and the way they learned to express what they wanted from one another. Honestly, I found myself a little bored at times. The love story was nice...the sex was nice...but I wasn't wowed by the story. It was pretty basic. Although, I do give my stamp of approval to Alistair's dirty talking. I can never get enough of that stuff.
Overall, this was a fine little read to pass the time after a night of carving pumpkins and drinking cocoa...easy to slip into, yet just as easy to wrap up and move on to something else. If you're a fan of historical romance, chances are, you'll like Seven Years. Most people I know who've read this really enjoyed it and rated higher than I did. I think I just tend to prefer my HR with a little more flair than this book served up.
The start of this tale had me grinning mischievously when a very naughty voyeuristic scene happened right off the bat. I knew the stage was being set for a future series of events that were bound to bring this moment back to light.
There were many things about Seven Years which worked out well for me. I liked the idea of two people getting to know one another again while trapped on a ship together (although now I just want to go read a pirate bodice ripper because I was hoping for more of a high seas vibe).
As a historical, the fare was pretty standard. I've read better, I've read worse. I'm no expert judge of how much detail is accurate or not for the time period, so I leave those aspects to the people who know more about these things. I have to say that I missed some of the more prominent banter and wit which I've experienced in other historical romances. Truly, the strength in this story leaned more on the broken pasts of our characters and the way they learned to express what they wanted from one another. Honestly, I found myself a little bored at times. The love story was nice...the sex was nice...but I wasn't wowed by the story. It was pretty basic. Although, I do give my stamp of approval to Alistair's dirty talking. I can never get enough of that stuff.
Overall, this was a fine little read to pass the time after a night of carving pumpkins and drinking cocoa...easy to slip into, yet just as easy to wrap up and move on to something else. If you're a fan of historical romance, chances are, you'll like Seven Years. Most people I know who've read this really enjoyed it and rated higher than I did. I think I just tend to prefer my HR with a little more flair than this book served up.
September 22, 2012
“You and I have always been inevitable. And I am not a man to take pieces of a whole. I must have everything. The good as well as the bad.”
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I read this book because of how much I LOVED Bared to You (by the same author) and when I heard that this was the book that inspired her to write it, I really couldn’t resist reading it.
First off, you should know that, unlike Bared to You, this is a historical novel. As many of you know, that’s not exactly a genre I read much of and I’ll have to admit, it took me a while to get used to the language and writing style. It wasn’t over-the-top “historical” per say, but it definitely wasn’t modern language. But, the more I got into it and the more I got used it to, the more I was able to immerse myself in the story which, in and of itself, was really good.
Destined to marry an Earl and brought up in a world designed for men, Jessica is resigned to her place in the world. However, she cannot help but be drawn to the dashing (oh god, I used the word dashing lol, the historical stuff is getting to me!) and devilishly charming young Alistair Caulfield. On the night before her wedding, she happens upon him in the woods and sees something that shocks her to her core – him selling his body to a woman of high standing. Despite being taken off guard, seeing him in such a shocking display awakens desires she didn’t even know she had.
Seven years later, her husband has died and Jessica decides to go on a sea voyage to tend to their plantations that are now in her possession. Alistair manages to have her aboard his ship. Over the years, he has become quite the successful tradesman. He’s driven, successful, and yet a rebel and a bit of a historical bad boy. He has been enamored with Jessica since he first met her when he was a teen and now, with her husband out of the picture and her away from the shackles of London society, he sees this as the perfect setting for a seduction
“We are being very naughty,” she pronounced.
“Not nearly naughty enough, but I intend to address that. Hold tight.”
K, don’t judge me, but honestly I wasn’t sure I’d find a historical romance terribly hot. I just kind of assumed that the love scenes would be all “raging cockstands and delicate petals” but boy was I certainly proven wrong! This one sizzled!! In the first scene, he binds her to the bed with tie (in a concentual, really hot way) and proceeds to have his wicked not-so-stuffy way so after that, I was pretty much on board with the book lol.
“If I could… I would remain like this indefinitely – clasped by you, held inside you, a part of you – without moving at all. When we make love, I fight climax with everything I have. I don’t want to come; I do not want it to end. No matter how long I make it last, it isn’t nearly long enough…. Tell me you understand,” he demanded, his lips moving beneath hers. “Tell me you feel it, too.”
“I feel you,” She breathed… “You have become everything to me.”
Clasping her tightly, he pivoted towards the bed.
I loved Alistair and all his sensual, “breathtakingly male” gorgeousness. “Jess thought him the handsomest man she’d ever seen. Exotically so. Blantantly seductive. More than slightly dangerous. Delicious.” But his character went much deeper than that. He was a flawed individual but who loved Jessica with absolutely all of his heart. His devotion to her was beautiful. I also really liked Jessica. Both of them had pasts they needed to heal from and I loved watching them fall in love, help each other heal, and realize how desperately they truly needed each other.
“Don’t pity me,” he said… “I will take any emotion from you but that one.”
“I adore you.”
The harsh line of his mouth smoothed. “That one will do nicely.”
There is also a secondary storyline going on surrounding Jessica’s sister and her brother-in-law. I did like their story but wasn’t quite as into it as I was with Jess and Alistair but I liked how everything ended up tying in together. There was a little ‘something’ I was hoping for at the end that didn’t happen, but still, I was happy with the HEA ending.
As for how it compares to Bared to You… it was not like the historical version of it or anything, but I could definitely see how this was where the inspiration for BTY came from. The characters were similar, but not identical. I saw more of Gideon in Alistair though than I saw of Eva in Jessica. And the plot itself had small hints of similarity, but not really enough to draw comparisons.
I’ll admit, the “historical” dialogue and some of the writing style kind of kept me from fully immersing myself into the story as much as with a more modernly written book (there were even some phrases I was entirely unfamiliar with that took me a moment to figure out) but the heart of the story and the relationships, I did really like.
I think the bottom line is, historicals really aren’t my thing, but, regardless of that, Sylvia Day did a fantastic job of making me care for the story so I was mostly to over look that in order to enjoy the characters and their journey. There were some really sweet moments, the characters had great chemistry so there were lots of sexy times, so if you are at all a fan of historical romance or want to try one out, you should consider giving this one a shot :)
How I see Alistair and Jess:
For more of my reviews, visit Aestas Book Blog
And come join the Aestas Book Blog Facebook Page
[image error]
I read this book because of how much I LOVED Bared to You (by the same author) and when I heard that this was the book that inspired her to write it, I really couldn’t resist reading it.
First off, you should know that, unlike Bared to You, this is a historical novel. As many of you know, that’s not exactly a genre I read much of and I’ll have to admit, it took me a while to get used to the language and writing style. It wasn’t over-the-top “historical” per say, but it definitely wasn’t modern language. But, the more I got into it and the more I got used it to, the more I was able to immerse myself in the story which, in and of itself, was really good.
Destined to marry an Earl and brought up in a world designed for men, Jessica is resigned to her place in the world. However, she cannot help but be drawn to the dashing (oh god, I used the word dashing lol, the historical stuff is getting to me!) and devilishly charming young Alistair Caulfield. On the night before her wedding, she happens upon him in the woods and sees something that shocks her to her core – him selling his body to a woman of high standing. Despite being taken off guard, seeing him in such a shocking display awakens desires she didn’t even know she had.
Seven years later, her husband has died and Jessica decides to go on a sea voyage to tend to their plantations that are now in her possession. Alistair manages to have her aboard his ship. Over the years, he has become quite the successful tradesman. He’s driven, successful, and yet a rebel and a bit of a historical bad boy. He has been enamored with Jessica since he first met her when he was a teen and now, with her husband out of the picture and her away from the shackles of London society, he sees this as the perfect setting for a seduction
“We are being very naughty,” she pronounced.
“Not nearly naughty enough, but I intend to address that. Hold tight.”
K, don’t judge me, but honestly I wasn’t sure I’d find a historical romance terribly hot. I just kind of assumed that the love scenes would be all “raging cockstands and delicate petals” but boy was I certainly proven wrong! This one sizzled!! In the first scene, he binds her to the bed with tie (in a concentual, really hot way) and proceeds to have his wicked not-so-stuffy way so after that, I was pretty much on board with the book lol.
“If I could… I would remain like this indefinitely – clasped by you, held inside you, a part of you – without moving at all. When we make love, I fight climax with everything I have. I don’t want to come; I do not want it to end. No matter how long I make it last, it isn’t nearly long enough…. Tell me you understand,” he demanded, his lips moving beneath hers. “Tell me you feel it, too.”
“I feel you,” She breathed… “You have become everything to me.”
Clasping her tightly, he pivoted towards the bed.
I loved Alistair and all his sensual, “breathtakingly male” gorgeousness. “Jess thought him the handsomest man she’d ever seen. Exotically so. Blantantly seductive. More than slightly dangerous. Delicious.” But his character went much deeper than that. He was a flawed individual but who loved Jessica with absolutely all of his heart. His devotion to her was beautiful. I also really liked Jessica. Both of them had pasts they needed to heal from and I loved watching them fall in love, help each other heal, and realize how desperately they truly needed each other.
“Don’t pity me,” he said… “I will take any emotion from you but that one.”
“I adore you.”
The harsh line of his mouth smoothed. “That one will do nicely.”
There is also a secondary storyline going on surrounding Jessica’s sister and her brother-in-law. I did like their story but wasn’t quite as into it as I was with Jess and Alistair but I liked how everything ended up tying in together. There was a little ‘something’ I was hoping for at the end that didn’t happen, but still, I was happy with the HEA ending.
As for how it compares to Bared to You… it was not like the historical version of it or anything, but I could definitely see how this was where the inspiration for BTY came from. The characters were similar, but not identical. I saw more of Gideon in Alistair though than I saw of Eva in Jessica. And the plot itself had small hints of similarity, but not really enough to draw comparisons.
I’ll admit, the “historical” dialogue and some of the writing style kind of kept me from fully immersing myself into the story as much as with a more modernly written book (there were even some phrases I was entirely unfamiliar with that took me a moment to figure out) but the heart of the story and the relationships, I did really like.
I think the bottom line is, historicals really aren’t my thing, but, regardless of that, Sylvia Day did a fantastic job of making me care for the story so I was mostly to over look that in order to enjoy the characters and their journey. There were some really sweet moments, the characters had great chemistry so there were lots of sexy times, so if you are at all a fan of historical romance or want to try one out, you should consider giving this one a shot :)
How I see Alistair and Jess:
For more of my reviews, visit Aestas Book Blog
And come join the Aestas Book Blog Facebook Page
August 6, 2012
I was asked by a friend, if i wanted to join in on reading this book because apparently the main couple, Alistair and Jessica were the author's inspiration for Bared to You (a contemporary romance), which i had recently read and enjoyed. This is what is considered a Regency romance, which is typically not a genre that has ever "called to me"..simply because i'm not really a fan of historicals, of any kind..but i was curious so i gave it a shot!
I can't say that i'm any more sold on Regency romances now that i've actually read one...i think it's the way they speak to each other and the vocabulary used..it's just very odd!! lol!..and the titles! Jessica's husband was Benedict Reginald Sinclair, Viscount Tarley and future Earl of Pennington...whatever that means!...that's his title i guess...but what had me confused was how Jessica and others just called him Tarley, like that was his name..and she went by Lady Tarley, but then when he passes, his brother has to step in to take over and HE is now the Tarley...i guess my question is...what the heck is a Tarley!!!??
Having said that, of course, i DID actually really enjoy this book! I loved Alistair!! He's the "player" who's been in love with and pining for Jessica, the prim and proper girl, for years. He was sexy as all get out, and he was soooo romantic in how he treated and spoke to Jessica! The sex scenes were also "smokin hot!!" The side story of Jessica's sister, Hester, was also very intriguing and at times heart breaking...although she def. could have gotten her own book...i would like to have gotten more of her and Michael. If you are someone who enjoys Regency romances i would not hesitate to recommend this book...read it, you will love it! Sylvia Day may not have won me over on Regency romance, but she certainly has on reading more of her books because she definitely knows how to write romance period!
I can't say that i'm any more sold on Regency romances now that i've actually read one...i think it's the way they speak to each other and the vocabulary used..it's just very odd!! lol!..and the titles! Jessica's husband was Benedict Reginald Sinclair, Viscount Tarley and future Earl of Pennington...whatever that means!...that's his title i guess...but what had me confused was how Jessica and others just called him Tarley, like that was his name..and she went by Lady Tarley, but then when he passes, his brother has to step in to take over and HE is now the Tarley...i guess my question is...what the heck is a Tarley!!!??
Having said that, of course, i DID actually really enjoy this book! I loved Alistair!! He's the "player" who's been in love with and pining for Jessica, the prim and proper girl, for years. He was sexy as all get out, and he was soooo romantic in how he treated and spoke to Jessica! The sex scenes were also "smokin hot!!" The side story of Jessica's sister, Hester, was also very intriguing and at times heart breaking...although she def. could have gotten her own book...i would like to have gotten more of her and Michael. If you are someone who enjoys Regency romances i would not hesitate to recommend this book...read it, you will love it! Sylvia Day may not have won me over on Regency romance, but she certainly has on reading more of her books because she definitely knows how to write romance period!
October 22, 2012
Love, love, LOVED it! Alistair ... holy hotness! All I can say is, I want a carriage ride with him! ;)
March 25, 2021
note to self don't touch books you've enjoyed in the past
February 13, 2022
God, what a sweet, sexy, fiery, honest, passionate, intimate, erotic, enchanting, soul-stirring, life-changing love! Beautifully drawn, complex characters, once in a lifetime passion, minimal angst. This book is why I read HR. Highly recommended!
September 11, 2011
Story Rating 5 stars
Character Rating 5 stars
Romance Rating 5 stars
Heat Level 4.5 out of 5
Overall Rating 5+
Sylvia Day IS BACK! I was worried going into this book that it was not going to be a good one because her last book disappointed me so much. Well I must say for me that worry was a total waste of time. This book was absolutely FANTASTIC. I loved it so well that my overall rating was a 5+.
ALL of the characters in this book were very well done.
The story line was very good and had a secondary story that was equally as good. I was really drawn into this book and wished it could have just kept on going. This is the type of book that I just can't get enough of.
OH MY, the love scenes were the type out of every woman's fantasy's. This book does not just dump these two into bed and by the time they are tangled in the sheets, you could feel the passion they had for each other radiating off of the pages. This book also had the perfect steam level for me, SCORCHING but nothing too out of hand.
Those of you who love lots of dialoged in your book's can check that box off too. The H&h were very open with each other when it came to their pasts. I just loved some of the things these two said to each other, it was sigh worthy.
If you are thinking you'd like to read this book, I highly recommend it. I just hope if you do buy it on my recommendation that you enjoy it as much as I.
Sylvia Day, if your out there and reading this, WELL DONE!!! I can hardly wait for your next book :)
Character Rating 5 stars
Romance Rating 5 stars
Heat Level 4.5 out of 5
Overall Rating 5+
Sylvia Day IS BACK! I was worried going into this book that it was not going to be a good one because her last book disappointed me so much. Well I must say for me that worry was a total waste of time. This book was absolutely FANTASTIC. I loved it so well that my overall rating was a 5+.
ALL of the characters in this book were very well done.
The story line was very good and had a secondary story that was equally as good. I was really drawn into this book and wished it could have just kept on going. This is the type of book that I just can't get enough of.
OH MY, the love scenes were the type out of every woman's fantasy's. This book does not just dump these two into bed and by the time they are tangled in the sheets, you could feel the passion they had for each other radiating off of the pages. This book also had the perfect steam level for me, SCORCHING but nothing too out of hand.
Those of you who love lots of dialoged in your book's can check that box off too. The H&h were very open with each other when it came to their pasts. I just loved some of the things these two said to each other, it was sigh worthy.
If you are thinking you'd like to read this book, I highly recommend it. I just hope if you do buy it on my recommendation that you enjoy it as much as I.
Sylvia Day, if your out there and reading this, WELL DONE!!! I can hardly wait for your next book :)
November 18, 2025
I couldn't get into this at all, I just couldn't get into the storyline or relate to the characters which is a shame as on paper Sylvia Day is writing a genre I love and should be an author for me.
Two stars.
Two stars.
May 7, 2012
I've been searching for a word to describe this book and I think I'm going to settle on delicious!.
This is my first foray into Historical Novels and who best to guide me through my first time than Sylvia Day, and guide me she did!.
I was consumed by this book and couldn't put it down and for two days it felt like I was in the moment, the Era and the story itself.
Everything was described so well from the clothing to the setting that in my minds eye I could picture the whole story and it was breathtaking.
Alistair in his breeches, boots and billowy shirts together with his animal magnetism aplenty....oh dear, I defy anyone not to fall in love with this man! I adored the heroine Jessica, and watching these two flawed, sensual characters come together was just wonderful.
They both have something from their pasts to deal with and watching them evolve and trust was very special.
Jessica and Alistair positively sizzle. If you're looking for a hot read this book has it in spades
I also loved following the story of Hester, Jessica's sister. Her story tugged at my heart strings that's for sure.
There were a few outstanding quotes I shared with my girls along the way (which no doubt had them downloading the book in seconds haha) which I'd love to share here but don't want to give anything away.
This is my first foray into Historical Novels and who best to guide me through my first time than Sylvia Day, and guide me she did!.
I was consumed by this book and couldn't put it down and for two days it felt like I was in the moment, the Era and the story itself.
Everything was described so well from the clothing to the setting that in my minds eye I could picture the whole story and it was breathtaking.
Alistair in his breeches, boots and billowy shirts together with his animal magnetism aplenty....oh dear, I defy anyone not to fall in love with this man! I adored the heroine Jessica, and watching these two flawed, sensual characters come together was just wonderful.
They both have something from their pasts to deal with and watching them evolve and trust was very special.
Jessica and Alistair positively sizzle. If you're looking for a hot read this book has it in spades
I also loved following the story of Hester, Jessica's sister. Her story tugged at my heart strings that's for sure.
There were a few outstanding quotes I shared with my girls along the way (which no doubt had them downloading the book in seconds haha) which I'd love to share here but don't want to give anything away.
September 19, 2020
5 Incredible, Well Done Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
I joined GR in 2013 and listed all the books I had read before joining. Didn't have any concept about reviewing or thinking I ever would. What I did know was Sylvia Day was a revelation to me. Of course, I found her during the Bare to You rage. Being a bit of a Sherlock Holmes, I found out about her prior books, ran to the store, and scooped up this one and The Stranger I Married.
Well, OMG... I was taken, captured, and swooned multiple times. These Historical Romances were so smexy, so lusty, and crafted so well, I felt they were more compelling than the newer contemporary ones. There was a depth of character for everyone presented. The mental pictures Day gave us would stay with you for long after you finished reading.
So, I mention all of this due to a lovely person liking my 5 stars for this book. I felt I should at least share a bit of my love for the book.
-The Stranger I Married
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * * Spoiler Free
I joined GR in 2013 and listed all the books I had read before joining. Didn't have any concept about reviewing or thinking I ever would. What I did know was Sylvia Day was a revelation to me. Of course, I found her during the Bare to You rage. Being a bit of a Sherlock Holmes, I found out about her prior books, ran to the store, and scooped up this one and The Stranger I Married.
Well, OMG... I was taken, captured, and swooned multiple times. These Historical Romances were so smexy, so lusty, and crafted so well, I felt they were more compelling than the newer contemporary ones. There was a depth of character for everyone presented. The mental pictures Day gave us would stay with you for long after you finished reading.
So, I mention all of this due to a lovely person liking my 5 stars for this book. I felt I should at least share a bit of my love for the book.
-The Stranger I MarriedFor more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
September 9, 2014
Feminist agenda in a Regency woman written in such an artificially stilted language it squeaked. With porn-level and porn-style sex. Pretty yucky.
May 11, 2012
5 stars.
As I had stated in my Bared To You review, Sylvia Day was an author whose work I had sampled last year and I have no idea what stopped me from continuing on with her books. I think at that stage I hadn't yet joined GR and couldn't keep track of things.
Sylvia Day's writing is exquisite. Direct, straight to the point, there never seems to be any unnecessary drama in her stories. Her men are masculine and can be possessive without being excessively demanding or alpha. Her women are smart (thank you god!) and decent and the sort you would love to have as a friend.
SD's writing talent is so brilliant that she is able to "crossover" between historical and contemporary genres and does so successfully. This seems so remarkable to me. I love that she is able to do this because I covet both genres of romance and feel very lucky to enjoy both sides of Day.
Now that I've waffled on over my girlcrush, I have no steam left for an actual review. Hopefully I'll pull this up again in a few days and add in some of my favourite quotes. I will just say though that this read includes all of the above plus perfect amounts of steamy hotness. Enjoy.
As I had stated in my Bared To You review, Sylvia Day was an author whose work I had sampled last year and I have no idea what stopped me from continuing on with her books. I think at that stage I hadn't yet joined GR and couldn't keep track of things.
Sylvia Day's writing is exquisite. Direct, straight to the point, there never seems to be any unnecessary drama in her stories. Her men are masculine and can be possessive without being excessively demanding or alpha. Her women are smart (thank you god!) and decent and the sort you would love to have as a friend.
SD's writing talent is so brilliant that she is able to "crossover" between historical and contemporary genres and does so successfully. This seems so remarkable to me. I love that she is able to do this because I covet both genres of romance and feel very lucky to enjoy both sides of Day.
Now that I've waffled on over my girlcrush, I have no steam left for an actual review. Hopefully I'll pull this up again in a few days and add in some of my favourite quotes. I will just say though that this read includes all of the above plus perfect amounts of steamy hotness. Enjoy.
November 26, 2011
I adore Sylvia Day, and this is, by far, her best book in some time!! So much emotion! So much passion! This woman can write couples like no one else!! Alistair and Jessica are sublime together, and equally as interesting individually.
Alistair is sex on a stick, ladies! Love, love, love this story! 5 stars!!!
Alistair is sex on a stick, ladies! Love, love, love this story! 5 stars!!!
April 22, 2012
Seven Years to Sin by Sylvia Day
Alistair Caulfield has harbored a love for Lady Jessica Sheffield for many years, but many factors made that love unattainable. He being younger, and the 4th son of a duke and duchess, there was no role for him. Alistair is quite a free spirit, making his own way in the world at a young age and building his own fortune by whatever means necessary.
On the eve of Jessica’s wedding, she is walking her dog for the evening and comes across Alistair engaged in a lecherous act with a married woman.
“The horror she should have felt at finding a man engaged in sexual congress was markedly absent. Because it was Caulfield, and he fascinated her. It was a terrible sort of captivation with which she viewed him-a mixture of envy for his freedom and horror at the ease with which he disregarded public opinion.”
Being free wasn’t afforded to Jessica as her father had her already paired with Benedict Sinclair, Viscount and future Earl immediately upon her presentation as a debutante. Having spent her life under her fathers thumb and having propriety beaten into her, Jessica was just happy to be away from that situation. Happens that her marriage was a good one, but fate had other plans for Jessica.
“Other men coveted the mystery of her, but Alistair had seen behind the veil, and that was the woman he lusted for. Forever beyond his reach in reality, but a fixture in his mind. She was burned into his memory by the raging hungers and impressions of youth, and the years hadn’t lessened the vivid recollection one wit.”
After six years of marriage to Benedict, she is widowed. Benedict left her everything including the property in Jamaica. Almost a year into her bereavement of her husband, Jessica decides she needs to get away from society for a while and decides to travel to Jamaica to tend to the property there. Just so happens that Alistair has now made his return to London, and has arranged with Jessica’s brother in law to escort and assist Jessica on her trip. Jessica doesn’t know of Alistair’s return or of his plans to accompany her on the ship for the next six weeks, alone with only the two of them and the crewmen.
“He wanted her to see him as the man he was now-cultured and learned. Polished. His presentation was meant to be the first salvo in what was intended to be a slow careful seduction.”
The unattainable becomes attainable as the courtship of Jessica Tarley begins. These two alone on a ship together have no distractions from each other, and Alistair couldn’t have planned this better. I loved watching these two turn their lust into love, and tear down each others protective walls. Each sharing the most emotional parts of their past with one another. Not only knowing each other carnally, but getting a good look into the true make up of each other.
“She’d started this journey as a widow, certain she would be alone for the rest of her life. She ended with a lover, a man to whom she’d bared her body and soul, revealing memories of a past she had previously shared only with Hester.”
There is also a heartbreaking secondary story going on that involves Jessica’s sister, Hester. Growing up, Jessica tried to protect Hester from their fathers’ rages, only for her to end up married to a man with those same rages. Michael who has loved her since their youth wants desperately to protect her, is in difficult position. He would love nothing more than to save her but all he can do is extend his friendship and try to be there for Hester as best he can. I certainly wouldn’t mind a continuation of her story. I loved Michael and Hester, and hated Regmont!
I loved this story so much!
Sylvia Day is versatile in her writing, and once again I have experienced her beautiful writing and characterization. This is story of two people falling in love, and I truly fell in love with this cast of characters and their story. Alistair is that strong, dominant, and sexy man that I love so, but yet he’s not afraid to show his love for all the world to see. I really liked Jessica, she is stronger than she believes, smart and very perceptive. In the face of propriety she embraces herself, and the hellrake she has fallen in love with.
“Seven years. It felt as if her attraction to him had been simmering the whole of that time, waiting for his touch to free it.”
*All quotes are taken from the novel Seven Years to Sin by Sylvia Day
Alistair Caulfield has harbored a love for Lady Jessica Sheffield for many years, but many factors made that love unattainable. He being younger, and the 4th son of a duke and duchess, there was no role for him. Alistair is quite a free spirit, making his own way in the world at a young age and building his own fortune by whatever means necessary.
On the eve of Jessica’s wedding, she is walking her dog for the evening and comes across Alistair engaged in a lecherous act with a married woman.
“The horror she should have felt at finding a man engaged in sexual congress was markedly absent. Because it was Caulfield, and he fascinated her. It was a terrible sort of captivation with which she viewed him-a mixture of envy for his freedom and horror at the ease with which he disregarded public opinion.”
Being free wasn’t afforded to Jessica as her father had her already paired with Benedict Sinclair, Viscount and future Earl immediately upon her presentation as a debutante. Having spent her life under her fathers thumb and having propriety beaten into her, Jessica was just happy to be away from that situation. Happens that her marriage was a good one, but fate had other plans for Jessica.
“Other men coveted the mystery of her, but Alistair had seen behind the veil, and that was the woman he lusted for. Forever beyond his reach in reality, but a fixture in his mind. She was burned into his memory by the raging hungers and impressions of youth, and the years hadn’t lessened the vivid recollection one wit.”
After six years of marriage to Benedict, she is widowed. Benedict left her everything including the property in Jamaica. Almost a year into her bereavement of her husband, Jessica decides she needs to get away from society for a while and decides to travel to Jamaica to tend to the property there. Just so happens that Alistair has now made his return to London, and has arranged with Jessica’s brother in law to escort and assist Jessica on her trip. Jessica doesn’t know of Alistair’s return or of his plans to accompany her on the ship for the next six weeks, alone with only the two of them and the crewmen.
“He wanted her to see him as the man he was now-cultured and learned. Polished. His presentation was meant to be the first salvo in what was intended to be a slow careful seduction.”
The unattainable becomes attainable as the courtship of Jessica Tarley begins. These two alone on a ship together have no distractions from each other, and Alistair couldn’t have planned this better. I loved watching these two turn their lust into love, and tear down each others protective walls. Each sharing the most emotional parts of their past with one another. Not only knowing each other carnally, but getting a good look into the true make up of each other.
“She’d started this journey as a widow, certain she would be alone for the rest of her life. She ended with a lover, a man to whom she’d bared her body and soul, revealing memories of a past she had previously shared only with Hester.”
There is also a heartbreaking secondary story going on that involves Jessica’s sister, Hester. Growing up, Jessica tried to protect Hester from their fathers’ rages, only for her to end up married to a man with those same rages. Michael who has loved her since their youth wants desperately to protect her, is in difficult position. He would love nothing more than to save her but all he can do is extend his friendship and try to be there for Hester as best he can. I certainly wouldn’t mind a continuation of her story. I loved Michael and Hester, and hated Regmont!
I loved this story so much!
Sylvia Day is versatile in her writing, and once again I have experienced her beautiful writing and characterization. This is story of two people falling in love, and I truly fell in love with this cast of characters and their story. Alistair is that strong, dominant, and sexy man that I love so, but yet he’s not afraid to show his love for all the world to see. I really liked Jessica, she is stronger than she believes, smart and very perceptive. In the face of propriety she embraces herself, and the hellrake she has fallen in love with.
“Seven years. It felt as if her attraction to him had been simmering the whole of that time, waiting for his touch to free it.”
*All quotes are taken from the novel Seven Years to Sin by Sylvia Day
August 30, 2012
3 - 3.5 Stars
I loved the characters especially the passionate and heart baring Alistair. He never wavered, never strayed, he gave his heart to Jess and no matter the obstacles he faced he was too in love to ever give her up. Sylvia Day writes some of the hottest historicals I have ever read and it is very true with this story too. I felt the first half was a little slow, but still good. Once they returned to England it just took off for me. Also the secondary love story between Hester and Michael was an extra bonus.
I loved the characters especially the passionate and heart baring Alistair. He never wavered, never strayed, he gave his heart to Jess and no matter the obstacles he faced he was too in love to ever give her up. Sylvia Day writes some of the hottest historicals I have ever read and it is very true with this story too. I felt the first half was a little slow, but still good. Once they returned to England it just took off for me. Also the secondary love story between Hester and Michael was an extra bonus.
May 8, 2018
Puro placer erótico son las escenas que crea esta autora en torno a nuestros dos protagonistas, ella una viuda dolida y él un vividor que, a pesar de esos siete años que han pasado, han seguido manteniendo una especie de conexión sin ni siquiera saberlo. No esperéis más que disfrutar de la unión de sus cuerpos y sus almas, aderezado todo con una pequeña trama secundaria que aporta solidez a la historia y atractivo lector, porque no todo es leer cómo ellos se descubren y se encuentran, sino también qué ocurre con la gente que les rodea.
Alistair es un personaje muy sensual y muy sexual y ella es tan receptiva a él que la unión de ambos crea momentos muy interesantes. Además, hay mucho más romanticismo de lo que cabría esperar, algo que creo que es común a otras de sus novelas de este tipo.
Un acierto para quitarme el gusanillo que tenía. Me apetecía una lectura así, justo de este tipo. Para mí estas novelas de Sylvia Day son muchísimo mejores que la saga Crossfire (opinión personal).
Opinión completa en el blog
Alistair es un personaje muy sensual y muy sexual y ella es tan receptiva a él que la unión de ambos crea momentos muy interesantes. Además, hay mucho más romanticismo de lo que cabría esperar, algo que creo que es común a otras de sus novelas de este tipo.
Un acierto para quitarme el gusanillo que tenía. Me apetecía una lectura así, justo de este tipo. Para mí estas novelas de Sylvia Day son muchísimo mejores que la saga Crossfire (opinión personal).
Opinión completa en el blog
January 3, 2022
5 Stars
Quick Review
- What a deliciously complex this story was. It was an amazing example of the emotional crest and crash only an unrequited love can bring.
- As I said before, Sylvia Day's writing is awe-inspiring. She is able to show you the rawness of characters which is quite unlike the other authors of this genre.
- I personally enjoy reading in detail the backstories and the development of characters when they try to rise above their hurts, and I have ended up not liking the stories where this does not happen. But Ms Day's writing is proving to be an exception to this rule. She coveys, and I believe such is the power of her storytelling.
- Alistair and Jess's story was wonderful. There was an innate intensity to them. They showed that when it comes to love, time does not matter, and the past is consequential until it isn't.
- Their romance was an emotional rollercoaster of longing, desire, all-consuming passion, support, understanding, healing, overcoming, and finding strength in each other.
- I was equally invested in the secondary love story as well. I had hoped for a little more detail on that front, but no complaints.
- The best part of this story was an unusual HEA. Not everything works out hunky-dory, and that element of reality made this book exceptional.
My Recommendation
I cannot explain the complexity of this brilliant piece of writing, nor can I say anything different than the 1000+ other reviewers have written. All I shall say is this, you have to read it to understand it.
Quick Review
- What a deliciously complex this story was. It was an amazing example of the emotional crest and crash only an unrequited love can bring.
- As I said before, Sylvia Day's writing is awe-inspiring. She is able to show you the rawness of characters which is quite unlike the other authors of this genre.
- I personally enjoy reading in detail the backstories and the development of characters when they try to rise above their hurts, and I have ended up not liking the stories where this does not happen. But Ms Day's writing is proving to be an exception to this rule. She coveys, and I believe such is the power of her storytelling.
- Alistair and Jess's story was wonderful. There was an innate intensity to them. They showed that when it comes to love, time does not matter, and the past is consequential until it isn't.
- Their romance was an emotional rollercoaster of longing, desire, all-consuming passion, support, understanding, healing, overcoming, and finding strength in each other.
- I was equally invested in the secondary love story as well. I had hoped for a little more detail on that front, but no complaints.
- The best part of this story was an unusual HEA. Not everything works out hunky-dory, and that element of reality made this book exceptional.
My Recommendation
I cannot explain the complexity of this brilliant piece of writing, nor can I say anything different than the 1000+ other reviewers have written. All I shall say is this, you have to read it to understand it.
August 7, 2012
Rating: A ... Heat: Sizzling
The night before Jessica Sheffield is to be married, her pug Temperance leads her on a merry journey through the woods to find the perfect spot to piddle. Said spot happens to be near a gazebo—one that is… quite occupied. When the moon reveals to her who exactly is fornicating in said gazebo, her startled gasp catches Alistair Caulfield’s attention.
From the moment that their eyes lock, something within both of them changes. Jessica is awakened to desires and urges she never knew existed. Alistair is captivated and consumed by a woman he cannot have. And the memory of that moment will haunt them both for seven years.
Jessica Sheffield has been hidden away behind a mask of propriety and manners and expectations. The whole of her life has been dedicated to being a proper daughter and a dutiful wife. When she boards Alistair’s ship to Jamaica, Jess is free to become the woman she has long hidden. And that woman is delightful. Fiery and strong. Wanton. Jessica really comes into her own after a lifetime of being who others expect her to be.
Alistair Caulfield stole my heart. And my panties. He pretty much oozes sex from his pores—the man is all things virile. I think he may even have carnality in his very bones. But even though his machismo is very potent stuff indeed, that is definitely not all there is to him. Alistair is compassionate and stoic and… patient. Jessica manages to stir up longings and desires in him that really squeezed at my heart. I loved watching a man who puts most of his self-worth on his prowess between the sheets simply… unravel… under the force of her love for him.
One of my favorite things about this couple is how there was never any indecisiveness on either Jessica or Alistair's sides. It was never a matter of if they want each other or if they'll give in to their passions. The lack of angst was refreshing and very, very welcome. I like that Jessica was no simpering miss, fretting over her attraction to Alistair. She wants him, he wants her, they just have to figure out how to make it work.
Which is not to say that their journey is easy. They both have obstacles, internally and externally, to overcome. Jessica and Alistair have both suffered at the hands of their parents. Jessica, physically. Alistair, emotionally. It was deeply gratifying to see them come together, to voice their demons, and to find acceptance for them in one another. It felt very honest and true. And added dimension and layers and meaning to their relationship.
Seven Years to Sin is as sensual as it is sexual. It manages to stir your heart as it heats your blood. Miz Day has written Jessica and Alistair’s story so beautifully. It was filled with such deep emotion that you can’t help but become invested in all the characters. I loved this book. Plain and simple. And I’m already eagerly anticipating a reread—I simply didn’t want to leave these characters and their world.
Favorite Quote:
“If I could,” he went on, “I would remain like this indefinitely—clasped by you, held inside you, a part of you—without moving at all. When we make love, I fight climax with everything I have. I don’t want to come; I do not want it to end. No matter how long I make it last, it isn’t nearly long enough. I am furious when I cannot hold back any longer. Why, Jess? If all I seek is the physical relief of natural lust, just as I would seek sleep or food, why would I deny myself?”
She turned her head and caught his mouth with hers, kissing him desperately.
“Tell me you understand,” he demanded, his lips moving beneath hers. “Tell me you feel it, too.”
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review
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The night before Jessica Sheffield is to be married, her pug Temperance leads her on a merry journey through the woods to find the perfect spot to piddle. Said spot happens to be near a gazebo—one that is… quite occupied. When the moon reveals to her who exactly is fornicating in said gazebo, her startled gasp catches Alistair Caulfield’s attention.
From the moment that their eyes lock, something within both of them changes. Jessica is awakened to desires and urges she never knew existed. Alistair is captivated and consumed by a woman he cannot have. And the memory of that moment will haunt them both for seven years.
Jessica Sheffield has been hidden away behind a mask of propriety and manners and expectations. The whole of her life has been dedicated to being a proper daughter and a dutiful wife. When she boards Alistair’s ship to Jamaica, Jess is free to become the woman she has long hidden. And that woman is delightful. Fiery and strong. Wanton. Jessica really comes into her own after a lifetime of being who others expect her to be.
Alistair Caulfield stole my heart. And my panties. He pretty much oozes sex from his pores—the man is all things virile. I think he may even have carnality in his very bones. But even though his machismo is very potent stuff indeed, that is definitely not all there is to him. Alistair is compassionate and stoic and… patient. Jessica manages to stir up longings and desires in him that really squeezed at my heart. I loved watching a man who puts most of his self-worth on his prowess between the sheets simply… unravel… under the force of her love for him.
One of my favorite things about this couple is how there was never any indecisiveness on either Jessica or Alistair's sides. It was never a matter of if they want each other or if they'll give in to their passions. The lack of angst was refreshing and very, very welcome. I like that Jessica was no simpering miss, fretting over her attraction to Alistair. She wants him, he wants her, they just have to figure out how to make it work.
Which is not to say that their journey is easy. They both have obstacles, internally and externally, to overcome. Jessica and Alistair have both suffered at the hands of their parents. Jessica, physically. Alistair, emotionally. It was deeply gratifying to see them come together, to voice their demons, and to find acceptance for them in one another. It felt very honest and true. And added dimension and layers and meaning to their relationship.
Seven Years to Sin is as sensual as it is sexual. It manages to stir your heart as it heats your blood. Miz Day has written Jessica and Alistair’s story so beautifully. It was filled with such deep emotion that you can’t help but become invested in all the characters. I loved this book. Plain and simple. And I’m already eagerly anticipating a reread—I simply didn’t want to leave these characters and their world.
Favorite Quote:
“If I could,” he went on, “I would remain like this indefinitely—clasped by you, held inside you, a part of you—without moving at all. When we make love, I fight climax with everything I have. I don’t want to come; I do not want it to end. No matter how long I make it last, it isn’t nearly long enough. I am furious when I cannot hold back any longer. Why, Jess? If all I seek is the physical relief of natural lust, just as I would seek sleep or food, why would I deny myself?”
She turned her head and caught his mouth with hers, kissing him desperately.
“Tell me you understand,” he demanded, his lips moving beneath hers. “Tell me you feel it, too.”
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review
Find us on Twitter and Facebook too!
March 31, 2015
5 BLAZING STARS!!!
I cannot express adequately how much I loved this book. I was concerned in the beginning because it didn't immediately grab me, but oh my god did it more than make up for that about 35% into it.
Jessica always conforming to society norms of the time, she is the controlled and distant lady that is expected of her. On the eve of her marriage, she takes a walk in the some gardens and stumbles upon Alistair having sex with someone who paid him for his services. She can't leave, she has to watch, the moment seared in her mind. What she doesn't know is Alistair's mind is also seared with this memory. He cannot forget Jessica. Seven years later Jessica's husband dies and she is starting her life over as a widow.
An opportunity presents itself and Alistair takes full advantage to get near Jessica. I loved Alistair and Jessica, I loved the chemistry and heat between them, I loved the dialogue and the sex was smokin' hot! What I loved about these two were the obstacles they both overcame to be truly fall in love. Jessica fighting to find her voice and be the person she only dreamt she could be. Alistair fighting his self loathing and shame of his past, not feeling good enough for Jessica.
And I loved the secondary story, Jessica's sister Hester, her husband beats her and Michael the man who has admired her for years. This story was sad and broke my heart.
I sometimes didn't understand what was happening because of the historical dialogue (a few words and phrases that confused me), but i simply looked up the words I didn't understand...problem solved. I actually love the historical dialogue, it take my mind to another place, another world and it helps me to get lost in the story. The romance in this book made me gush with girly satisfaction, the dialogue was wonderful, the heat....heated me up! And again I found a book what did exactly what I wanted and expected, it took my mind and heart to a wonderful place....YAY!
I cannot express adequately how much I loved this book. I was concerned in the beginning because it didn't immediately grab me, but oh my god did it more than make up for that about 35% into it.
Jessica always conforming to society norms of the time, she is the controlled and distant lady that is expected of her. On the eve of her marriage, she takes a walk in the some gardens and stumbles upon Alistair having sex with someone who paid him for his services. She can't leave, she has to watch, the moment seared in her mind. What she doesn't know is Alistair's mind is also seared with this memory. He cannot forget Jessica. Seven years later Jessica's husband dies and she is starting her life over as a widow.
An opportunity presents itself and Alistair takes full advantage to get near Jessica. I loved Alistair and Jessica, I loved the chemistry and heat between them, I loved the dialogue and the sex was smokin' hot! What I loved about these two were the obstacles they both overcame to be truly fall in love. Jessica fighting to find her voice and be the person she only dreamt she could be. Alistair fighting his self loathing and shame of his past, not feeling good enough for Jessica.
And I loved the secondary story, Jessica's sister Hester, her husband beats her and Michael the man who has admired her for years. This story was sad and broke my heart.
I sometimes didn't understand what was happening because of the historical dialogue (a few words and phrases that confused me), but i simply looked up the words I didn't understand...problem solved. I actually love the historical dialogue, it take my mind to another place, another world and it helps me to get lost in the story. The romance in this book made me gush with girly satisfaction, the dialogue was wonderful, the heat....heated me up! And again I found a book what did exactly what I wanted and expected, it took my mind and heart to a wonderful place....YAY!
![Profile Image for Michelle [Helen Geek].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1448463806i%2F5557851._CR0%2C13%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
April 26, 2012
5 Stars!
Absolute perfection. The characters, the talented phrasing, the story; just perfection. I'm not a writer, but I think there is something to be said for the talents of a writer who can write a historical romance really well. Just like a paranormal book, there is so much needed to "set the stage". Contemporary books rely so much on a readers "current point of reference". Not needed is to draw the picture of the clothing, the transportation, the hairstyles, etc. This writer can write a "kick ass" historical romance with such sensuality that is almost breathtaking. I want to know how I've only just found Sylvia Day?
So, in one paragraph I've told you all that I appreciated about this book. The backstory for each character revealed to us very flawed characters. I think this must be a talent of S. Day. She creates for us truly flawed characters of very deep emotions. Those who saying the words "I love you" just does not seem to be able to convey the depth of feeling they have for each other. She pulls you into their story from the very first page and keeps you until the very end. An end you really don't want to see. This was one of those books you watched the little gauge at the bottom of the Kindle tell you, 14%, 41%, 74%... and you thought "oh, good grief, not yet". You just do not want it to end.
So, to answer the question I posed to myself, is this author really that good. After reading "Bared to You", I wanted to know, just a fluke or is she just that brilliant? Yes, she is just that brilliant.
So, I'm on to devour all this author has to offer. I can imagine even her less stellar works will be light-years ahead of most, so am clapping my hands in glee!
Even if you are not overly enamored of historical works [you know who you are *hint*], please do yourself a favor and check this one out. You will not be sorry.
Happy Reading!
Absolute perfection. The characters, the talented phrasing, the story; just perfection. I'm not a writer, but I think there is something to be said for the talents of a writer who can write a historical romance really well. Just like a paranormal book, there is so much needed to "set the stage". Contemporary books rely so much on a readers "current point of reference". Not needed is to draw the picture of the clothing, the transportation, the hairstyles, etc. This writer can write a "kick ass" historical romance with such sensuality that is almost breathtaking. I want to know how I've only just found Sylvia Day?
So, in one paragraph I've told you all that I appreciated about this book. The backstory for each character revealed to us very flawed characters. I think this must be a talent of S. Day. She creates for us truly flawed characters of very deep emotions. Those who saying the words "I love you" just does not seem to be able to convey the depth of feeling they have for each other. She pulls you into their story from the very first page and keeps you until the very end. An end you really don't want to see. This was one of those books you watched the little gauge at the bottom of the Kindle tell you, 14%, 41%, 74%... and you thought "oh, good grief, not yet". You just do not want it to end.
So, to answer the question I posed to myself, is this author really that good. After reading "Bared to You", I wanted to know, just a fluke or is she just that brilliant? Yes, she is just that brilliant.
So, I'm on to devour all this author has to offer. I can imagine even her less stellar works will be light-years ahead of most, so am clapping my hands in glee!
Even if you are not overly enamored of historical works [you know who you are *hint*], please do yourself a favor and check this one out. You will not be sorry.
Happy Reading!
July 13, 2023
I am an avid devourer of spicy books, but in this one I just wanted the MCs to simply let Hester and Michael shine. Almost the whole book, I was like "Yeah, yeah, you two have good chemistry and have been attracted to each other for 7 years, but let's read how Hester is going to sort out her life with Michael, who has been crazy about her for 7 years".
Anyway, this is the story of two sisters who were unlucky in their marriages (for different reasons) but managed to have a happy ending! An erotic saga, but also with a lot of drama.
I really liked the fact that the male characters were totally in love with the sisters; however, I didn't like that the sisters chose to marry other people, ignoring all the lust. But there you go, that's the plot: second chances! The epilogue didn't add anything new either. I wasn't expecting a miracle, but still, why not?
Anyway, this is the story of two sisters who were unlucky in their marriages (for different reasons) but managed to have a happy ending! An erotic saga, but also with a lot of drama.
I really liked the fact that the male characters were totally in love with the sisters; however, I didn't like that the sisters chose to marry other people, ignoring all the lust. But there you go, that's the plot: second chances! The epilogue didn't add anything new either. I wasn't expecting a miracle, but still, why not?
May 8, 2012
I loved EVERYTHING about this book, the way it was written, the story and I LOVED Alistair & Jessica! This book consumed me and I devoured it knowing it will stay with me forever!
The journey of Alistair and Jessica begins with chaste looks and comes to a head one evening when Jessica stumbles upon a "scene" in a gazebo involving Alistair, where what she witnesses, proceeds to spark a change in her and stays with her until 7 years later when this night becomes pivotal to her future.
Jessica thought Alistair "the handsomest man she'd ever seen. Exotically so. Blatantly seductive. More than slightly dangerous. Delicious." "He exuded raw sensuality that was nothing less than addictive. When she wasn't with him, she wished to be." - Yeah me too!
Seven years later Jessica who is now a grieving widow looks to overcome her grief and move on with her life. To do so she decides to travel to Jamaica to deal with property belonging to her late husband. Alistair, who has had strong feelings for Jessica since the night by the gazebo decides to travel with her and begins his "wooing" (lol)of her.
"Jessica - a woman he'd known was meant to be his from the moment he first saw her".."She'd snared him completely that long-ago night, bewitched him beyond redemption. There was no other choice for him. Somehow, he had to make himself the only choice for her."
"I have wanted you for so long now he said roughly, I've no memory of how it feels to be devoid of the craving. But you must know what you do. I need you to think of who you are and where you are and who I am. Think of how things will be once we've crossed this threshold..."
Neither Alistair nor Jessica could anticipate the depth of their emotion, their attraction or connection which began seven years earlier.
Both Alistair and Jessica have tragic pasts and are in need of fixing. They have to learn to open up and deal with the pasts that have marked them and learn to love and trust. They need to find their future, the key to their individual happiness and the happiness they can find together.
"You and I have always been inevitable. And I am not a man to take pieces of a whole. I must have everything. The good as well as the bad". - Alistair
"What there is between you and me has never been safe, nor will it ever be. You have to accept our attraction for what it is, with all it's faults and detriments, trusting that it will be worth whatever the costs may be" - Alistair.
"Do you truly want to delve into the unsavory aspects of my past? I confess, I would rather you think of me as a romantic figure than one who is flawed and damaged". - Alistair
Their journey is one amazing heart wrenching and SIZZLING HOT ride made more so by the language and the romance of the time in which it is set.
"There, he said, drawing her attention to a gazebo set in a clearing to the left of where they ascended. The structure was immediately recognizable - it was a miniature replica of the one on the Pennington estate..." - *SIGH*!!!!
This book has so many twists and turns and the drama, and other characters such as Michael and Hester, running alongside the beautiful story of Alistair and Jessica adds to the edge of your seat reading!!
I am in awe of Sylvia Day right now; the way in which she hooked me and taught me the appreciation of historical romance. This is a must read!
Sylvia Day is FAB-U-LUSH!!
The journey of Alistair and Jessica begins with chaste looks and comes to a head one evening when Jessica stumbles upon a "scene" in a gazebo involving Alistair, where what she witnesses, proceeds to spark a change in her and stays with her until 7 years later when this night becomes pivotal to her future.
Jessica thought Alistair "the handsomest man she'd ever seen. Exotically so. Blatantly seductive. More than slightly dangerous. Delicious." "He exuded raw sensuality that was nothing less than addictive. When she wasn't with him, she wished to be." - Yeah me too!
Seven years later Jessica who is now a grieving widow looks to overcome her grief and move on with her life. To do so she decides to travel to Jamaica to deal with property belonging to her late husband. Alistair, who has had strong feelings for Jessica since the night by the gazebo decides to travel with her and begins his "wooing" (lol)of her.
"Jessica - a woman he'd known was meant to be his from the moment he first saw her".."She'd snared him completely that long-ago night, bewitched him beyond redemption. There was no other choice for him. Somehow, he had to make himself the only choice for her."
"I have wanted you for so long now he said roughly, I've no memory of how it feels to be devoid of the craving. But you must know what you do. I need you to think of who you are and where you are and who I am. Think of how things will be once we've crossed this threshold..."
Neither Alistair nor Jessica could anticipate the depth of their emotion, their attraction or connection which began seven years earlier.
Both Alistair and Jessica have tragic pasts and are in need of fixing. They have to learn to open up and deal with the pasts that have marked them and learn to love and trust. They need to find their future, the key to their individual happiness and the happiness they can find together.
"You and I have always been inevitable. And I am not a man to take pieces of a whole. I must have everything. The good as well as the bad". - Alistair
"What there is between you and me has never been safe, nor will it ever be. You have to accept our attraction for what it is, with all it's faults and detriments, trusting that it will be worth whatever the costs may be" - Alistair.
"Do you truly want to delve into the unsavory aspects of my past? I confess, I would rather you think of me as a romantic figure than one who is flawed and damaged". - Alistair
Their journey is one amazing heart wrenching and SIZZLING HOT ride made more so by the language and the romance of the time in which it is set.
"There, he said, drawing her attention to a gazebo set in a clearing to the left of where they ascended. The structure was immediately recognizable - it was a miniature replica of the one on the Pennington estate..." - *SIGH*!!!!
This book has so many twists and turns and the drama, and other characters such as Michael and Hester, running alongside the beautiful story of Alistair and Jessica adds to the edge of your seat reading!!
I am in awe of Sylvia Day right now; the way in which she hooked me and taught me the appreciation of historical romance. This is a must read!
Sylvia Day is FAB-U-LUSH!!
May 3, 2012
There has always been something between Jessica and Alistair and it has never been more intense than the moment that Jess catches Alistair in a compromising position and they can't take their eyes off each other. Unfortunately, that is the on the eve of Jessica's marriage to another man. Fast forward seven years...
This story is the inspiration for Bared to You and if you loved that, you will want to read this even though it is a regency romance. You can really see Gideon in Alistair and although I didn't see Eva in Jessica that much, there are many similarities.
I loved Alistair and just everything about him. He really puts himself out for Jessica. There were sooo many great moments...on the ship, in the gazebo and in the carriage!! I loved his drawings and giving Jessica Acheron was adorable. I really liked seeing his vulnerable side.
I felt the same with Jessica but it was great seeing her true self come out. I loved when she showed up in the red gown! And I really enjoyed when she was always doing things first and surprising Alistair.
There is a secondary story with Jessica's sister, Hester, and her brother in law, Michael, that is really sweet. You can see where it is headed but I was still surprised at the final outcome. It definitely would be great to read a story about them.
I was hoping to hear some "news" at the end but I'm good with how it ended.
Favorite quotes:
♥ “As if I could ever forget any moment when you’d been in my arms,” he said softly.
♥ “I will see to this; you see to your sister. Be quick about it. It won’t be long before I come for you, and you’d best be ready, Jess, with my ring still gracing your hand. You won’t stay me then. I’ll drag you to Scotland in irons if I have to.”
He left her in a rush. As always, taking her heart with him.
This story is the inspiration for Bared to You and if you loved that, you will want to read this even though it is a regency romance. You can really see Gideon in Alistair and although I didn't see Eva in Jessica that much, there are many similarities.
I loved Alistair and just everything about him. He really puts himself out for Jessica. There were sooo many great moments...on the ship, in the gazebo and in the carriage!! I loved his drawings and giving Jessica Acheron was adorable. I really liked seeing his vulnerable side.
I felt the same with Jessica but it was great seeing her true self come out. I loved when she showed up in the red gown! And I really enjoyed when she was always doing things first and surprising Alistair.
There is a secondary story with Jessica's sister, Hester, and her brother in law, Michael, that is really sweet. You can see where it is headed but I was still surprised at the final outcome. It definitely would be great to read a story about them.
I was hoping to hear some "news" at the end but I'm good with how it ended.
Favorite quotes:
♥ “As if I could ever forget any moment when you’d been in my arms,” he said softly.
♥ “I will see to this; you see to your sister. Be quick about it. It won’t be long before I come for you, and you’d best be ready, Jess, with my ring still gracing your hand. You won’t stay me then. I’ll drag you to Scotland in irons if I have to.”
He left her in a rush. As always, taking her heart with him.
October 19, 2014
Made it as far as the scene where the man who gets drunk and beats his wife is portrayed as sympathetic, and they proceed to have hot, hot sex while he apologizes for beating her and confesses how much he loves her.
Also, why the hell was an Alistair a prostitute for, like, a hot two seconds in the beginning? This book is awful for so many reasons.
Also, why the hell was an Alistair a prostitute for, like, a hot two seconds in the beginning? This book is awful for so many reasons.
July 23, 2023
4 stars!
"What a pair we shall make. The wicked widow and the reformed rake."
Chasing her pug after dark - Jessica Sheffield stumbles upon Allistair Caulfield in relations with another woman. Not mortified but enthralled, h/H locked eyes; not knowing this is just the beginning...
I really enjoyed this book, Jessica and Allistair's chemistry was amazing. The steam is out of this world - if you like a man taking dirty, this one is for you! There is another couple in this book - Hester and Michael.
I was really hoping Hester and Michael had more of a deeper storyline! I wanted more than what we got. I hope the author writes a book for them!
I also like the fact that the author included pugs in this book - my favorite breed. I could also relate to the fact that Jessica was deaf in her left ear - so am I!
If you like an erotica, historical romance, and a dirty-talking Hero - this book should be your next read!
"What a pair we shall make. The wicked widow and the reformed rake."
Chasing her pug after dark - Jessica Sheffield stumbles upon Allistair Caulfield in relations with another woman. Not mortified but enthralled, h/H locked eyes; not knowing this is just the beginning...
I really enjoyed this book, Jessica and Allistair's chemistry was amazing. The steam is out of this world - if you like a man taking dirty, this one is for you! There is another couple in this book - Hester and Michael.
I was really hoping Hester and Michael had more of a deeper storyline! I wanted more than what we got. I hope the author writes a book for them!
I also like the fact that the author included pugs in this book - my favorite breed. I could also relate to the fact that Jessica was deaf in her left ear - so am I!
If you like an erotica, historical romance, and a dirty-talking Hero - this book should be your next read!
May 21, 2012
What I liked the most about this book was that it didn't have the typical traits of historical romances. A ship instead of society setting for H/h relationship, no misunderstandings, a widow with a happy past marriage, characters with realistic social pressures, secondary romance with also realistic progress, an alternate solution for hero's predicament to become a Duke which showed his true commitment to the heroine. I didn't like the flourished writing style the author used but by the first chapters I grew used to it. Characters development was very good -I loved both H/h- as were the love scenes, which may seem too many but they were used by author to reveal H/h's feelings. Excellent story.
HERO is a Rogue, stubborn, passionate and fearless, a fourth son ignored and despised by his father but he has made it on his own using anything available to him. He's been very strongly attracted for years to a lady he feels he doesn't deserve, and now that she's available he's determined to have her.
SCENES/CONTENT: many/steamy
GENRE/TONE: historical/drama
LENGHT: 350 pages
HERO is a Rogue, stubborn, passionate and fearless, a fourth son ignored and despised by his father but he has made it on his own using anything available to him. He's been very strongly attracted for years to a lady he feels he doesn't deserve, and now that she's available he's determined to have her.
SCENES/CONTENT: many/steamy
GENRE/TONE: historical/drama
LENGHT: 350 pages
February 18, 2022
2.85 rounded up 3.
This is my first book by Sylvia Day and, man, do I enjoy reading those love scenes. They are hot and steamy! 🔥
I don't know if Sylvia Day writes a side story in all of her books, but this book had one with the heroine's sister Hester, her unhappy marriage, her abusive husband, and Michael's unrequited love for her. I would prefer that the book focuses solely on the main couple, Alistair and Jessica.
This is my first book by Sylvia Day and, man, do I enjoy reading those love scenes. They are hot and steamy! 🔥
I don't know if Sylvia Day writes a side story in all of her books, but this book had one with the heroine's sister Hester, her unhappy marriage, her abusive husband, and Michael's unrequited love for her. I would prefer that the book focuses solely on the main couple, Alistair and Jessica.
October 2, 2015
Да започнеш нова книга от автор, чиито романи си чел и харесваш много, е донякъде стресиращо занимание, защото има два варианта - да харесаш новата много, или да я намразиш. Някак си след като прочетох "Седем години копнеж" от Силвия Дей, автор, чиито преведени в България книги вече съм прочела и харесвам, не бях нито очарована, нито разочарована.
Останалата част от ревюто: http://stormy-garden.blogspot.bg/2015...
Останалата част от ревюто: http://stormy-garden.blogspot.bg/2015...
May 12, 2012
Love love love! Alistair and Jess are a very passionate, sensual and incorrigible couple. I loved that Alistair loved Jess for seven years even when she was wed to someone else and that she secretly harbored feelings for him as well. The second story with her sister Hester was good as well and of course there was Michael who was in love with her while she was wed as well.
Favorite lines:
"I've wanted you from the moment I first saw you," she confessed, licking her dry lips. "Every hour I want you more."
His blue eyes were dark with need. Have me every hour." She stroked him through his breeches and smalls, her body softening and moistening in heated expectation. "Sex is innate to you; you exude it like a heady and addicting fragrance. But how can I distinguish myself from the other women who've desired you, unless I show you that I want more than your body?"
"What other women?"
"The very first time I had you," Alistair whispred, leaning his forehead against hers, "I understood the difference between what I thought I knew about sex and what I had yet to grasp. Now, I annot remember how I ever managed the act before you or how I could ever possibly attempt it without you."
"Do you see, Mother?" he asked softly, riveted. "Amid all of these lies, there is no finer truth than what is bared before you now."
"You do seem different," Michael mused, studying him. "Less agitated. Calmer. Tamed perhaps?"
"Bloody hell, lower your voice when you say such things."
Favorite lines:
"I've wanted you from the moment I first saw you," she confessed, licking her dry lips. "Every hour I want you more."
His blue eyes were dark with need. Have me every hour." She stroked him through his breeches and smalls, her body softening and moistening in heated expectation. "Sex is innate to you; you exude it like a heady and addicting fragrance. But how can I distinguish myself from the other women who've desired you, unless I show you that I want more than your body?"
"What other women?"
"The very first time I had you," Alistair whispred, leaning his forehead against hers, "I understood the difference between what I thought I knew about sex and what I had yet to grasp. Now, I annot remember how I ever managed the act before you or how I could ever possibly attempt it without you."
"Do you see, Mother?" he asked softly, riveted. "Amid all of these lies, there is no finer truth than what is bared before you now."
"You do seem different," Michael mused, studying him. "Less agitated. Calmer. Tamed perhaps?"
"Bloody hell, lower your voice when you say such things."
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