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The Temptresses #1
Twice the Temptation
Gentlemen of the ton...prepare to be tempted
Temptation is as old as Adam and Eve. Unfortunately, succumbing to it is as natural as breathing to the gentlemen in the haut ton. For prospective brides bent on fidelity, three of the ton's most ravishing beauties will help determine the faithful from the philanderers. What they hadn't counted on was emotional entanglements...
A Temptress in Love
Catherine Rutherford has been smitten with the sinfully handsome American, Lucas Beaumont, since their introduction the year before. And he appears just as enamored of her, for following his return to London he launches a seductive campaign to ensnare her heart and capture her hand in marriage. Never has Catherine been so confident in the outcome of a courtship...that is until she discovers her would-be groom proposed marriage to her sister first.
Although she and her twin share the same face, Catherine refuses to share a man's affections much less be any woman's substitute. So with the aid of her twin and two friends, she challenges the man she loves to the ultimate test of fidelity. Posing as her heartbroken sister--who is truly anything but--Catherine seeks his solace from an "unhappy marriage" and begins a tempestuous game of seduction where the true proof of his love lies in his ability to resist her charms.
The Temptresses series is connected to the Elusive Lords series.
Temptation is as old as Adam and Eve. Unfortunately, succumbing to it is as natural as breathing to the gentlemen in the haut ton. For prospective brides bent on fidelity, three of the ton's most ravishing beauties will help determine the faithful from the philanderers. What they hadn't counted on was emotional entanglements...
A Temptress in Love
Catherine Rutherford has been smitten with the sinfully handsome American, Lucas Beaumont, since their introduction the year before. And he appears just as enamored of her, for following his return to London he launches a seductive campaign to ensnare her heart and capture her hand in marriage. Never has Catherine been so confident in the outcome of a courtship...that is until she discovers her would-be groom proposed marriage to her sister first.
Although she and her twin share the same face, Catherine refuses to share a man's affections much less be any woman's substitute. So with the aid of her twin and two friends, she challenges the man she loves to the ultimate test of fidelity. Posing as her heartbroken sister--who is truly anything but--Catherine seeks his solace from an "unhappy marriage" and begins a tempestuous game of seduction where the true proof of his love lies in his ability to resist her charms.
The Temptresses series is connected to the Elusive Lords series.
364 pages, Paperback
First published November 18, 2013
25 people are currently reading
860 people want to read
About the author
Beverley Kendall
38 books994 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 35 reviews
December 4, 2013
LOVED loved absolutely adored this one *sigh* Lucas is AmamzinGGG *drooling*
This may very well be the best HR of 2013!!!
All the elements are perfectly balanced, covers all aspects and provides a satisfying closure.
Really looking forward to "Granville & Meghan's" story next!
Highly recommend: to first read, "An heir to deception" then this one:)
This may very well be the best HR of 2013!!!
All the elements are perfectly balanced, covers all aspects and provides a satisfying closure.
Really looking forward to "Granville & Meghan's" story next!
Highly recommend: to first read, "An heir to deception" then this one:)
November 16, 2013
Originally Reviewed For:
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Twice the Temptation by Beverley Kendall offers us an interesting dilemma.. Is it ok to tempt men to cheat? Before you answer consider the reasons why.. and wonder what choices would you make if put in such a situation. Now me, I have a hard line about cheating, it's wrong.. I don't care if you are entrapped.. if you do it, you are wrong. Period end of story. But what happens if you are weak? If you would never have strayed had not temptation been put in your way? hmmm are those who tempt just as guilty?
Of course Twice the Temptation is about more than tempting men who cheat.. it's about believing in yourself.. and in some ways in others. It's about learning from your mistakes and trying to become a better person.
Set in Victorian England we find the story of a woman who has made mistakes and has suffered for them. A woman who isn't perfect and yet wants to be better, who has loyal friends and family and yet still feels she must atone for her mistakes. A woman who always feels like second best and seriously only wants to be loved for herself. Hard to do when you are an identical twin and your twin has the sparkling personality, the natural warmth that you lack. To Catherine Rutherford it seems she has always been second best. The flawed paler copy.. lacking everything her sister has naturally. For most of her life she only had her sister to love and when Catherine thought she was going to lose her, she took some rather drastic and selfish measures.. for which she suffered. Top that off with every man she thought she could love had loved her sister first. Now finally she had a man who loved her and wanted to marry her. Who made Catherine believe in love again.. only to find out that he had actually proposed to her sister first. How could Catherine ever be sure? She didn't believe enough in herself and consequently couldn't trust him. So she had to take drastic measures..
American, Lucas Beaumont had formed a deep and abiding friendship with Catherine's sister Charlotte, enough so that he crossed the ocean to make sure she had arrived and was safe. Causing all sorts of troubles in her marriage. But he cared enough that he had to make sure. While there he met Catherine and this twin made his heart soar.. only before he could be sure Charlotte asked him to leave. Let him know that he was causing too much stress on her fragile marriage. He left.. but could never really let go of Catherine and now a year later he is back. But Catherine doesn't believe in him.
Why the tempting and cheating comments in the beginning? Because Catherine and her friends run a "help" group for women of the ton. They tempt and tease a man who is courting a woman of means and try to get him to cheat. If he makes a move then he is no good (and said courtee.. is always on hand to find out). In a world where women are second class citizens it's an interesting way to make sure the man really cares. After all if he can't be faithful before the marriage, when things aren't sure, he certainly won't be faithful afterwards.. right?
Since Catherine and her friends work in such a shady way, they gathered together and decided to use a similar method on Lucas... Catherine will be "Charlotte" for a day and see if Lucas succumbs.. If he doesn't Catherine will know that he truly loves her and only her. A harsh deception but one that could put all of Catherine's doubts to rest. Only nothing ever goes like it's supposed to. Catherine and Lucas both need to learn to trust, to believe in each other and to accept that love, real love doesn't come easy but if embraced it can change worlds.
Twice the Temptation is the first book in Ms Kendall's The Temptresses Series and was a strong lead in. It introduces the temptresses and brings back some characters from other books. Having never read anything by Ms Kendall before I was a bit lost at times. Since this was supposed to be the first book in the series, I was confused by references of past events. I had to do some research before I found out that while this was the first in the Temptresses series, there were other related books. I found the connection distracting and it often pulled me away from the story. But that's me.. I am curious that way. Other than that this was a good book with strong, like able characters.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Twice the Temptation, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on November 18, 2013
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Twice the Temptation by Beverley Kendall offers us an interesting dilemma.. Is it ok to tempt men to cheat? Before you answer consider the reasons why.. and wonder what choices would you make if put in such a situation. Now me, I have a hard line about cheating, it's wrong.. I don't care if you are entrapped.. if you do it, you are wrong. Period end of story. But what happens if you are weak? If you would never have strayed had not temptation been put in your way? hmmm are those who tempt just as guilty?
Of course Twice the Temptation is about more than tempting men who cheat.. it's about believing in yourself.. and in some ways in others. It's about learning from your mistakes and trying to become a better person.
Set in Victorian England we find the story of a woman who has made mistakes and has suffered for them. A woman who isn't perfect and yet wants to be better, who has loyal friends and family and yet still feels she must atone for her mistakes. A woman who always feels like second best and seriously only wants to be loved for herself. Hard to do when you are an identical twin and your twin has the sparkling personality, the natural warmth that you lack. To Catherine Rutherford it seems she has always been second best. The flawed paler copy.. lacking everything her sister has naturally. For most of her life she only had her sister to love and when Catherine thought she was going to lose her, she took some rather drastic and selfish measures.. for which she suffered. Top that off with every man she thought she could love had loved her sister first. Now finally she had a man who loved her and wanted to marry her. Who made Catherine believe in love again.. only to find out that he had actually proposed to her sister first. How could Catherine ever be sure? She didn't believe enough in herself and consequently couldn't trust him. So she had to take drastic measures..
American, Lucas Beaumont had formed a deep and abiding friendship with Catherine's sister Charlotte, enough so that he crossed the ocean to make sure she had arrived and was safe. Causing all sorts of troubles in her marriage. But he cared enough that he had to make sure. While there he met Catherine and this twin made his heart soar.. only before he could be sure Charlotte asked him to leave. Let him know that he was causing too much stress on her fragile marriage. He left.. but could never really let go of Catherine and now a year later he is back. But Catherine doesn't believe in him.
Why the tempting and cheating comments in the beginning? Because Catherine and her friends run a "help" group for women of the ton. They tempt and tease a man who is courting a woman of means and try to get him to cheat. If he makes a move then he is no good (and said courtee.. is always on hand to find out). In a world where women are second class citizens it's an interesting way to make sure the man really cares. After all if he can't be faithful before the marriage, when things aren't sure, he certainly won't be faithful afterwards.. right?
Since Catherine and her friends work in such a shady way, they gathered together and decided to use a similar method on Lucas... Catherine will be "Charlotte" for a day and see if Lucas succumbs.. If he doesn't Catherine will know that he truly loves her and only her. A harsh deception but one that could put all of Catherine's doubts to rest. Only nothing ever goes like it's supposed to. Catherine and Lucas both need to learn to trust, to believe in each other and to accept that love, real love doesn't come easy but if embraced it can change worlds.
Twice the Temptation is the first book in Ms Kendall's The Temptresses Series and was a strong lead in. It introduces the temptresses and brings back some characters from other books. Having never read anything by Ms Kendall before I was a bit lost at times. Since this was supposed to be the first book in the series, I was confused by references of past events. I had to do some research before I found out that while this was the first in the Temptresses series, there were other related books. I found the connection distracting and it often pulled me away from the story. But that's me.. I am curious that way. Other than that this was a good book with strong, like able characters.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Twice the Temptation, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on November 18, 2013
November 19, 2013
Catherine Rutherford thinks she's finally found the one in Lucas Beaumont. She's not only allowed him more liberties than she should but she thinks he's going to propose right up until he tells her he's leaving for home and doesn't think he'll be back. Catherine doesn't show it but she's devastated and when Lucas comes back a year later to claim her things aren't quite the way he left them...for both him and her. Revelations regarding his relationship with her sister and her actions in his absence put their new romantic relationship to the test.
I'm so glad this wildly anticipated novel is now available. With Beverley Kendall writing you know there is no way you will have a "typical" story. She's wonderful at having twists and aspects that are not only out of the usual but extremely hard to predict no matter how many historical romance novels you've read. I can't mention an example without giving away some of the story so I won't. Ruining a book is a horrible thing to do.
To be honest, the book flew by and as I neared the end I didn't think Lucas and Catherine were going to be able to work everything out in this book leaving me with mixed emotions; I was happy to get more Lucas, Catherine, Alex, Charlotte, and Nicholas but upset I was going to have to wait to get it. In order to find out which of the two it is you're going to have to read the book. It was easy to like Catherine and Lucas. I found Catherine to be a contradiction of sorts. She was brave and confident when "testing" the men of the Ton and stubborn once she made up her mind. She was also a but of a cry baby. Lucas was strong in his convictions which is always a trait I admire in both my book boyfriends as well as men in real life. I loved the way he treated Catherine although the revelation regarding him and Charlotte could've been handled better by him. Alex did himself no favors in this book for what he did.
The book is the first book in a new series related to her Elusive Lords series which also seriously fantastic. I can't tell you how excited I am to getting books about Catherine's best friends and possibly Lucas's siblings. I absolutely adored this book and can't wait for more of Beverley's genius. In the end the wait for this book was well worth it.
I'm so glad this wildly anticipated novel is now available. With Beverley Kendall writing you know there is no way you will have a "typical" story. She's wonderful at having twists and aspects that are not only out of the usual but extremely hard to predict no matter how many historical romance novels you've read. I can't mention an example without giving away some of the story so I won't. Ruining a book is a horrible thing to do.
To be honest, the book flew by and as I neared the end I didn't think Lucas and Catherine were going to be able to work everything out in this book leaving me with mixed emotions; I was happy to get more Lucas, Catherine, Alex, Charlotte, and Nicholas but upset I was going to have to wait to get it. In order to find out which of the two it is you're going to have to read the book. It was easy to like Catherine and Lucas. I found Catherine to be a contradiction of sorts. She was brave and confident when "testing" the men of the Ton and stubborn once she made up her mind. She was also a but of a cry baby. Lucas was strong in his convictions which is always a trait I admire in both my book boyfriends as well as men in real life. I loved the way he treated Catherine although the revelation regarding him and Charlotte could've been handled better by him. Alex did himself no favors in this book for what he did.
The book is the first book in a new series related to her Elusive Lords series which also seriously fantastic. I can't tell you how excited I am to getting books about Catherine's best friends and possibly Lucas's siblings. I absolutely adored this book and can't wait for more of Beverley's genius. In the end the wait for this book was well worth it.
November 22, 2023
When I realized that the series from where these characters were first introduced has ended with just the story of Alex and Charlotte, I was appalled but when I discover that this is a Lucas and Catherine story I was really more than relieved ! I mean, you couldn't just pass their story like that, with Lucas going back to America.
I would say this deserves a title of deception than the story of Alex and Charlotte. This story is full of deception it gives me creeps.
But it's a nice thing that the author presented an argument which is seemingly unimportant to those who resort to those things but definitely needs a great deal of thinking.
Is it okay to resort to deception and lies to prove that men's intention is genuine? Or should I say, does end truly justify the means?
Some would say yes, some no. In this case, the heroine believes that it's the former. And the decision she chose brought a great deal of consequences to her life. Good for her, this ever charming, worth-drooling American, none other than Lucas, loves her too much to forgive her for everything.
Nevertheless, this is such a nice story.
Definitely recommended but READ FIRST, "AN HEIR OF DECEPTION" OR RATHER THE WHOLE SERIES.
I would say this deserves a title of deception than the story of Alex and Charlotte. This story is full of deception it gives me creeps.
But it's a nice thing that the author presented an argument which is seemingly unimportant to those who resort to those things but definitely needs a great deal of thinking.
Is it okay to resort to deception and lies to prove that men's intention is genuine? Or should I say, does end truly justify the means?
Some would say yes, some no. In this case, the heroine believes that it's the former. And the decision she chose brought a great deal of consequences to her life. Good for her, this ever charming, worth-drooling American, none other than Lucas, loves her too much to forgive her for everything.
Nevertheless, this is such a nice story.
Definitely recommended but READ FIRST, "AN HEIR OF DECEPTION" OR RATHER THE WHOLE SERIES.
November 18, 2013
this is one hell of a superb book!!! i've loved Ms.Kendall's books and this much awaited sequel to An Heir of Deception Is as much page-turner as its predecessor!!!!! swoon-worthy!!!
March 13, 2020
4 Stars
April 6, 2014
Catherine Rutherford thought she shared a special connection with Lucas Beaumont and had some expectations about their relationship. Imagine her disappointment and confusion when Lucas suddenly decides to return to America, leaving their blossoming relationship in limbo. Catherine is not alone in wondering about love and relationships and, while she cannot do anything about her own situation, she and her friends, Meghan and Olivia decide to "help out" other ladies by targeting their gentlemen suitors and putting their devotion and sincerity to the test. Their project has enjoyed some measure of success and they've saved many ladies from disastrous marriages. But, in so doing, Catherine has further deepened the doubts she has long harboured: love is elusive and she may never get a chance at making a happy marriage.
Beverley Kendall's Twice the Temptation tries to address the age-old question: Is it true love? It's an impossible question to answer and a difficult project to write about -- but Kendall's attempt does hit a few targets (but misses others):
1. The Temptresses -- the idea of deception never sits well with me but I also have to admire the cleverness and simplicity of Meghan, Olivia and Catherine's project. They subtly present gentlemen with an opportunity and it is the gentleman's decision to take it or walk away. Does it prove true love? I don't think so, but I think it showed the ladies which gentlemen were sincere in their courtship and it helped young, innocent debutantes and ladies choose wisely from their suitors.
I did worry, though, for the reputation and safety of the three ladies. As evidenced by Lord Landry in the latter part of this book (from loc 4492), it doesn't take a keen eye to observe that there is a pattern to their modus operandi -- and he was able to take advantage of it.
2. The problem of being identical twins -- the reason for Catherine's doubts is that Lucas met Charlotte first and proposed to Charlotte first. Despite the insistence of both parties that their relationship is platonic (add to that: Charlotte being happily married), Catherine cannot help but think that she is merely a replacement for Charlotte in Lucas's eyes. I would have thought that Alex and Charlotte's love story has proven that one is not a substitute for the other -- but Catherine insists on physical proof.
~Sigh~
I have to say I did not enjoy Catherine's many insecurities, but I understand where she is coming from. Catherine believes herself to be unlovable, having been born a bastard (and of mixed blood). Then there is her guilt about her role in ruining Charlotte and Alex's relationship. She's never really had a chance to forgive herself for that, despite being assured by both Alex and Charlotte that all has been forgiven. Now comes Lucas, who claims to love her, but she worries about what would happen if he knew all of her faults and secrets.
The sad thing is, instead of going directly to the heart of the problem, Catherine leads Lucas on a merry chase: testing him at every turn. This would be fine, but I hated that she also teased and succumbed to her attraction to him so easily. I really wished she had made up her mind and been more firm in her resolve -- instead, her own waffling/flip-flopping confused Lucas (and annoyed me).
3. The "true love" test -- would I wish such a thing to exist? Yes and no.
What I love about reading romances is how heroes and heroines overcome internal and external obstacles in order to be with the one they loved. I think it shows a strength of character and resolve to say, "This is it and I will make this work." Catherine hadn't even gotten to forming a relationship because she never gave herself the chance to see and work things out for herself while in the relationship -- she's always on the outside looking in, only planning to join when she knows everything is safe. She wanted to be certain and I saw this as a bit futile since nothing in life is ever immutable -- and I wish she had just seen that all the signs of Lucas's devotion were there. Instead, she gave herself and Lucas a difficult time and chose a really rough (and repetitious) road to true love.
I have to admire Lucas for his patience and devotion. I honestly would have given up about halfway through because Catherine was really so, so stubborn.
4. Relationships -- I thought this was the strongest point in Beverley Kendall's novel. She was able to highlight different kinds of relationships throughout the story: Alex and Charlotte have been married for more than a year now and Alex, especially, still shows some signs of doubt when it comes to Lucas -- having shared Charlotte and Nicholas's life in America. I did like seeing Alex and Charlotte argue/discuss the Catherine/Lucas issue and was a nice glimpse of what happens after the "happily-ever-after" -- they're a couple who are working on their relationship on a daily basis and have learned to compromise with one another.
There's also mention of James and Missy (and the reference to their childhood affection) and then there is Lucas's mother, who has had three husbands and has tried to get married to "the one" several more times. Lucas describes his mother as the epitome of selfish insecurity and how she drove her husbands to the brink with her constant demands. She was an unhappy woman who made everyone around her unhappy as well.
Finally, you have Catherine and Lucas -- ironically, they are the luckiest (and ought to be happiest) of the three: from the first moment they met, there was instant chemistry, and they didn't have to suffer what Alex and Charlotte went through and they don't have the same emotional dependency that Lucas's mother has.
The point is that no two relationships are the same and each one takes a different path to love and we all have to make a decision on how we will travel there.
I consider Twice the Temptation as a "bridge" novel: it "ends" Kendall's The Elusive Lords series and begins her The Temptresses series. I had a different expectation about Catherine and Lucas's story when I read about them in An Heir of Deception and had looked forward to the same emotional focus and gut/heart-wrenching scenes that I loved in the previous instalment. This novel does succeed in introducing us to a very interesting group of women: Catherine, Meghan and Olivia and I loved the tension between Rhys and Meghan and look forward to reading their story.
...The reality of the failures did not amuse her.
Her whole chest heaved with the next sigh. "But for the last four to fail?" She searched her friends' faces for traces of the same hopeless despair that now consumed her. When she found none, she wondered if it was peevish of her to be a little resentful of the fact.
"I've given up on every marrying, but you both shall marry one day. Does it not concern you that, on the most part, men cannot be trusted? This experience has led me to believe a faithful husband is a grand illusion. A dream."
- loc 375
Beverley Kendall's Twice the Temptation tries to address the age-old question: Is it true love? It's an impossible question to answer and a difficult project to write about -- but Kendall's attempt does hit a few targets (but misses others):
1. The Temptresses -- the idea of deception never sits well with me but I also have to admire the cleverness and simplicity of Meghan, Olivia and Catherine's project. They subtly present gentlemen with an opportunity and it is the gentleman's decision to take it or walk away. Does it prove true love? I don't think so, but I think it showed the ladies which gentlemen were sincere in their courtship and it helped young, innocent debutantes and ladies choose wisely from their suitors.
I did worry, though, for the reputation and safety of the three ladies. As evidenced by Lord Landry in the latter part of this book (from loc 4492), it doesn't take a keen eye to observe that there is a pattern to their modus operandi -- and he was able to take advantage of it.
2. The problem of being identical twins -- the reason for Catherine's doubts is that Lucas met Charlotte first and proposed to Charlotte first. Despite the insistence of both parties that their relationship is platonic (add to that: Charlotte being happily married), Catherine cannot help but think that she is merely a replacement for Charlotte in Lucas's eyes. I would have thought that Alex and Charlotte's love story has proven that one is not a substitute for the other -- but Catherine insists on physical proof.
"He must care for you very much." And that was the rub. Not that he cared for Charlotte but the extent of how much.
"Yes, the same way I care for him. He wants me to be happy. He wanted to give my marriage a chance to work. That is the only reason he left you. And he's back because he realised how very much you do mean to him. Enough to return whether I approved of it or not."
- (conversation between Catherine and Charlotte) loc 3124
~Sigh~
I have to say I did not enjoy Catherine's many insecurities, but I understand where she is coming from. Catherine believes herself to be unlovable, having been born a bastard (and of mixed blood). Then there is her guilt about her role in ruining Charlotte and Alex's relationship. She's never really had a chance to forgive herself for that, despite being assured by both Alex and Charlotte that all has been forgiven. Now comes Lucas, who claims to love her, but she worries about what would happen if he knew all of her faults and secrets.
The sad thing is, instead of going directly to the heart of the problem, Catherine leads Lucas on a merry chase: testing him at every turn. This would be fine, but I hated that she also teased and succumbed to her attraction to him so easily. I really wished she had made up her mind and been more firm in her resolve -- instead, her own waffling/flip-flopping confused Lucas (and annoyed me).
3. The "true love" test -- would I wish such a thing to exist? Yes and no.
What I love about reading romances is how heroes and heroines overcome internal and external obstacles in order to be with the one they loved. I think it shows a strength of character and resolve to say, "This is it and I will make this work." Catherine hadn't even gotten to forming a relationship because she never gave herself the chance to see and work things out for herself while in the relationship -- she's always on the outside looking in, only planning to join when she knows everything is safe. She wanted to be certain and I saw this as a bit futile since nothing in life is ever immutable -- and I wish she had just seen that all the signs of Lucas's devotion were there. Instead, she gave herself and Lucas a difficult time and chose a really rough (and repetitious) road to true love.
I have to admire Lucas for his patience and devotion. I honestly would have given up about halfway through because Catherine was really so, so stubborn.
4. Relationships -- I thought this was the strongest point in Beverley Kendall's novel. She was able to highlight different kinds of relationships throughout the story: Alex and Charlotte have been married for more than a year now and Alex, especially, still shows some signs of doubt when it comes to Lucas -- having shared Charlotte and Nicholas's life in America. I did like seeing Alex and Charlotte argue/discuss the Catherine/Lucas issue and was a nice glimpse of what happens after the "happily-ever-after" -- they're a couple who are working on their relationship on a daily basis and have learned to compromise with one another.
There's also mention of James and Missy (and the reference to their childhood affection) and then there is Lucas's mother, who has had three husbands and has tried to get married to "the one" several more times. Lucas describes his mother as the epitome of selfish insecurity and how she drove her husbands to the brink with her constant demands. She was an unhappy woman who made everyone around her unhappy as well.
Finally, you have Catherine and Lucas -- ironically, they are the luckiest (and ought to be happiest) of the three: from the first moment they met, there was instant chemistry, and they didn't have to suffer what Alex and Charlotte went through and they don't have the same emotional dependency that Lucas's mother has.
The point is that no two relationships are the same and each one takes a different path to love and we all have to make a decision on how we will travel there.
I consider Twice the Temptation as a "bridge" novel: it "ends" Kendall's The Elusive Lords series and begins her The Temptresses series. I had a different expectation about Catherine and Lucas's story when I read about them in An Heir of Deception and had looked forward to the same emotional focus and gut/heart-wrenching scenes that I loved in the previous instalment. This novel does succeed in introducing us to a very interesting group of women: Catherine, Meghan and Olivia and I loved the tension between Rhys and Meghan and look forward to reading their story.
January 25, 2021
I absolutely loved the heroine! She is not your usual female MC, because she is so full of flaws and makes so many mistakes, not a perfect lady at all!!! What a refreshing difference to the usual way these romance novels tend to be.
Although she comes away as manipulative and unscrupulous, in my opinion she is perfectly human. The things she went through make her real. And I liked her two best friends, Meghan and Olivia, whose stories I definitely want to read.
The hero is certainly likable- he is generous, magnanimous, forgiving and understanding. A typical Beta-hero.
Although she comes away as manipulative and unscrupulous, in my opinion she is perfectly human. The things she went through make her real. And I liked her two best friends, Meghan and Olivia, whose stories I definitely want to read.
The hero is certainly likable- he is generous, magnanimous, forgiving and understanding. A typical Beta-hero.
September 12, 2021
Another great book from Beverley Kendall.
So good to be reading about the characters that appeared in An Heir Of Deception again.
Looking forward to reading the next instalment too in the new spin of series The Temptresses and discovering Meghan and Rhys’ story.
Also love the fact that these books are set in my part of the world too!
So good to be reading about the characters that appeared in An Heir Of Deception again.
Looking forward to reading the next instalment too in the new spin of series The Temptresses and discovering Meghan and Rhys’ story.
Also love the fact that these books are set in my part of the world too!
March 8, 2025
Good steam as usual but the constant on again off again, questioning of motives, forgiving of deceptions got to be too much for me to give this anything but a 2 star. FMC’s friends and sister acted insane. MMC was brutal at times but I’d be at my wits end too if I was dealing with this level of idiocy and drama. If the author gets around to finishing this series I hope it improves.
February 25, 2019
Loved it!
People can be so stupid but when it comes together it's beautiful. Can't wait for more books in this series.
People can be so stupid but when it comes together it's beautiful. Can't wait for more books in this series.
August 25, 2022
It took me awhile to get through this one, I kept putting it down. Not a favorite, but good enough to be a slightly enjoyable read.
March 31, 2014
I received this book from Goodreads through a first-reads giveaway and the following is my honest review:
This was a pretty enjoyable read with just a few things that ended up not working for me. This book centers around Catherine and Lucas, who had recently reunited after a year apart. When Lucas returned to America without much explanation, Catherine was brokenhearted. When her friends suggested that they band together to test the fidelity of the eligible men of the ton, she could at least see some kind of purpose for herself. But then Lucas returned and every wall of defense Catherine thought she had built around herself came crumbling down. Things seemed to be turning up for Catherine, as Lucas clearly stated his intentions toward her and when she went about fulfilling her obligation in testing a gentleman at a ball, Lucas showed the proper amount of jealousy.
Just when everything seemed all mapped out for a happily ever after, Catherine discovered that Lucas had, six years previously, proposed marriage to her twin sister. I sympathized with Catherine's distress here. I would not immediately be able to wrap my brain around this circumstance, either. Catherine then begins to doubt the sincerity of Lucas' love and gives him the boot. Lucas, determined to make Catherine his wife, told her he would not leave her alone until her actions backed up her voiced desire for his exit from her life. Finally, Catherine convinces him that she meant what she said, thus exit Lucas. And thus begins where I start having an issue with the story. There is way too much making up and breaking up going on between Lucas and Catherine. In this book they break up and reunite a total of four times (if you include Lucas' original break from Catherine's life with his return to America at the flowering of their romance...) The last time this happened really felt like one time too many. Other than that, Lucas and Catherine's relationship is quite entertaining, both in public and behind closed doors.
The other thing that caused an issue for me was that there were a lot of grammar issues that caused me to kind of stutter while I was reading. At times it was a misplaced comma or a place that lacked a comma, other times when a name should have been put in place of the pronoun "her". But in spite of these issues, I still had a good time reading this book. I might look into the series that preceded this one, since it contains characters I got to know somewhat in this book.
This was a pretty enjoyable read with just a few things that ended up not working for me. This book centers around Catherine and Lucas, who had recently reunited after a year apart. When Lucas returned to America without much explanation, Catherine was brokenhearted. When her friends suggested that they band together to test the fidelity of the eligible men of the ton, she could at least see some kind of purpose for herself. But then Lucas returned and every wall of defense Catherine thought she had built around herself came crumbling down. Things seemed to be turning up for Catherine, as Lucas clearly stated his intentions toward her and when she went about fulfilling her obligation in testing a gentleman at a ball, Lucas showed the proper amount of jealousy.
Just when everything seemed all mapped out for a happily ever after, Catherine discovered that Lucas had, six years previously, proposed marriage to her twin sister. I sympathized with Catherine's distress here. I would not immediately be able to wrap my brain around this circumstance, either. Catherine then begins to doubt the sincerity of Lucas' love and gives him the boot. Lucas, determined to make Catherine his wife, told her he would not leave her alone until her actions backed up her voiced desire for his exit from her life. Finally, Catherine convinces him that she meant what she said, thus exit Lucas. And thus begins where I start having an issue with the story. There is way too much making up and breaking up going on between Lucas and Catherine. In this book they break up and reunite a total of four times (if you include Lucas' original break from Catherine's life with his return to America at the flowering of their romance...) The last time this happened really felt like one time too many. Other than that, Lucas and Catherine's relationship is quite entertaining, both in public and behind closed doors.
The other thing that caused an issue for me was that there were a lot of grammar issues that caused me to kind of stutter while I was reading. At times it was a misplaced comma or a place that lacked a comma, other times when a name should have been put in place of the pronoun "her". But in spite of these issues, I still had a good time reading this book. I might look into the series that preceded this one, since it contains characters I got to know somewhat in this book.
November 21, 2013
We first encounter Catherine Rutherford and Lucas Beaumont in An Heir of Deception ( Charlotte & Alex's story) and it was easy to see that the connection between these two was extremely powerful. Unfortunately, by the end of An Heir Lucas returns to America, per the request of Charlotte. Catherine is devastated by his goodbye because she felt this growing attachment between them and thought that he was going to purpose, and so this is how their story begins.
One year later Catherine is still upset over the loss of Lucas, which she now realizes is the only man she will love. Turning this pain into something useful she and her two friends, Megan and Olivia, create their own club where they will go test the fidelity of women's finances in society by simply tempting them with the offer that most gentlemen of the ton may not refuse. This is all with the permission of the gentleman's fiances take in mind, and if they pass the test then all is well, but if they fail then all will be revealed.
While Catherine and her friends have been busy with their "tempt club", Lucas has been hard at work in America and he soon realizes that the budding connection that he felt for Catherine is love. So a year later he returns to England with every intention that he will woo Catherine and make her his bride in a matter of weeks. Everything goes perfectly well until.... Catherine discovers that Lucas purposed to her sister first! Distraught by this new Catherine informs Lucas that they cannot be together, but he doesn't give up that easily.
I think what i loved most about this story is the challenges that both of these characters went through together. Beverley Kendall has the uncanny ability to give her characters so much life that they simply jump off the page at you. There were times when i was mad at Lucas for the decisions he made, and Catherine as well. They could both be so stubborn at times and i simply wanted to reach through the book and shake them at some points! But because the characters were so well written it was easy to interpret why they were the way they were. I completely recommend this book to anyone who loves a good sappy, angst filled romance novel. This delivers both and so much more!
One year later Catherine is still upset over the loss of Lucas, which she now realizes is the only man she will love. Turning this pain into something useful she and her two friends, Megan and Olivia, create their own club where they will go test the fidelity of women's finances in society by simply tempting them with the offer that most gentlemen of the ton may not refuse. This is all with the permission of the gentleman's fiances take in mind, and if they pass the test then all is well, but if they fail then all will be revealed.
While Catherine and her friends have been busy with their "tempt club", Lucas has been hard at work in America and he soon realizes that the budding connection that he felt for Catherine is love. So a year later he returns to England with every intention that he will woo Catherine and make her his bride in a matter of weeks. Everything goes perfectly well until.... Catherine discovers that Lucas purposed to her sister first! Distraught by this new Catherine informs Lucas that they cannot be together, but he doesn't give up that easily.
I think what i loved most about this story is the challenges that both of these characters went through together. Beverley Kendall has the uncanny ability to give her characters so much life that they simply jump off the page at you. There were times when i was mad at Lucas for the decisions he made, and Catherine as well. They could both be so stubborn at times and i simply wanted to reach through the book and shake them at some points! But because the characters were so well written it was easy to interpret why they were the way they were. I completely recommend this book to anyone who loves a good sappy, angst filled romance novel. This delivers both and so much more!
December 4, 2013
Catherine is an English woman with questionable breeding lines. Her half brother is an entitled man so she and her twin sister were somewhat welcomed by the Ton. She tries to be a proper woman, kind of. She's in love with Lucas Beaumont, an American who is a friend of her sister's.At the beginning of the story, Lucas has to go home to America to handle some family issues. She's dejected and heart broken because she thinks that means Lucas doesn't feel about her the same way she does him.
She and her two friends devise a scheme to help other young women who are about to enter marriage to test the fidelity of their betrotheds. They are actually very good at it with good results, depending on how you view it. All three woman are beautifully and elegant, so the men of the Ton fall for them time after time. Lucas unexpectedly returns to England to claim Catherine as his own. She then finds out that he proposed to her sister years earlier. Being an identical twin and people viewing them as interchangeable has made Catherine weary.
This was a cute premise and a good story. It dragged on because of the stupidity of both leads. I understood both of their hang ups. My big problem was Lucas. He was a royal ass to her one time. The made love and then he simply walked away. He knew he was walking away even though he made love to her. He even said afterwards that he made love to her knowing it was over and then told her to let him know if there were any consequences to their actions! This made my blood boil! He loved her and treated her this way!
I love Beverley Kendall's historicals and will continue to read her but this hero was an asshat!
She and her two friends devise a scheme to help other young women who are about to enter marriage to test the fidelity of their betrotheds. They are actually very good at it with good results, depending on how you view it. All three woman are beautifully and elegant, so the men of the Ton fall for them time after time. Lucas unexpectedly returns to England to claim Catherine as his own. She then finds out that he proposed to her sister years earlier. Being an identical twin and people viewing them as interchangeable has made Catherine weary.
This was a cute premise and a good story. It dragged on because of the stupidity of both leads. I understood both of their hang ups. My big problem was Lucas. He was a royal ass to her one time. The made love and then he simply walked away. He knew he was walking away even though he made love to her. He even said afterwards that he made love to her knowing it was over and then told her to let him know if there were any consequences to their actions! This made my blood boil! He loved her and treated her this way!
I love Beverley Kendall's historicals and will continue to read her but this hero was an asshat!
August 11, 2016
Originally reviewed for: Historical Romance Lover blog
This is book 1 in the Temptresses series (which branched off of the Elusive Lords series).
Catherine Rutherford has been attracted to Lucas Beaumont since they met. Just when she thinks things might be progressing, he goes back to his home in America.
After only hearing from him once in the year Lucas was gone, Catherine is surprised to learn that he has marriage on his mind upon his return to England.
Lucas couldn't get Catherine out of his mind while he was at home and returned as soon as he could to convince her to marry him. All was going well until Catherine learns that Lucas once proposed to her sister, her twin sister.
Catherine believes that Lucas only wants her because he couldn't have her sister. Can he convience her that it she that he wants?
We are introduced to Catherine and Lucas during the Elusive Lards series and I was eagerly awaiting their story. I was not disappointed. I fell in love with Lucas in the earlier stories and grew to love him even more in this one. I love that Catherine and her friends were actively trying to help out other women to make sure that they would not be marrying a cheater. The banter between the girls was hysterical. My hope is that the next book in the series is one of Catherine's friends so we can continue to enjoy their friendship.
Thanks go to NetGalley and Season Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
This is book 1 in the Temptresses series (which branched off of the Elusive Lords series).
Catherine Rutherford has been attracted to Lucas Beaumont since they met. Just when she thinks things might be progressing, he goes back to his home in America.
After only hearing from him once in the year Lucas was gone, Catherine is surprised to learn that he has marriage on his mind upon his return to England.
Lucas couldn't get Catherine out of his mind while he was at home and returned as soon as he could to convince her to marry him. All was going well until Catherine learns that Lucas once proposed to her sister, her twin sister.
Catherine believes that Lucas only wants her because he couldn't have her sister. Can he convience her that it she that he wants?
We are introduced to Catherine and Lucas during the Elusive Lards series and I was eagerly awaiting their story. I was not disappointed. I fell in love with Lucas in the earlier stories and grew to love him even more in this one. I love that Catherine and her friends were actively trying to help out other women to make sure that they would not be marrying a cheater. The banter between the girls was hysterical. My hope is that the next book in the series is one of Catherine's friends so we can continue to enjoy their friendship.
Thanks go to NetGalley and Season Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
December 15, 2013
Catherine and Lucas are attracted to each other and have been for over a year. Catherine is crushed when Lucas leaves London to return to America with no reason or conversation. She pines for him for a year. He returns to London with only one aim in mind- to marry Catherine. They both still have very strong feelings of for each other, which leads to some very interesting and steamy encounters. The one problem that they have is that they do not talk to each other honestly and from the heart. This leads to misunderstandings and hurt feelings for both. Catherine has an identical twin, Charlotte, which was very dear friends with Lucas in America (a whole different story-An Heir of Deception) and is afraid that Lucas is “settling” for Catherine since Charlotte is now married.
I enjoyed the characters and the interaction between them. They are strong, independent and well meaning, but tend toward some questionable methods of getting what they want, both with each other and others in their lives. Their conversations were quick and spirited. Occasionally I was frustrated that they had been down the road to their “happily ever after” and they would derail themselves. It was wonderful when they finally got there.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed the characters and the interaction between them. They are strong, independent and well meaning, but tend toward some questionable methods of getting what they want, both with each other and others in their lives. Their conversations were quick and spirited. Occasionally I was frustrated that they had been down the road to their “happily ever after” and they would derail themselves. It was wonderful when they finally got there.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 7, 2013
A sweet historical romance, Twice the Temptation was a lovely read.
Catherine was a good heroine, but I didn't like her that much. She was much to prone to manipulation for my tastes. She didn't see anything wrong with messing with people to get what she wanted, but I definitely did. And, she tended to me needlessly overdramatic. It wasn't a huge problem, but I can't say that I liked her.
Lucas, on the other hand, was wonderful. He was so sweet and determined to win over the woman he loved. He was so sweet and adorable and I totally loved him.
The romance was good. Catherine and Lucas were sweet together, even though I didn't appreciate Catherine playing games with Lucas. The chemistry was definitely there and it led to some steamy moments. I thought these two were lovely together.
The plot was well paced. I was kept interested the entire way through. Unfortunately, there were some slow moments due to Catherine's stubbornness, but it wasn't a huge problem. I enjoyed the story and the ending was lovely.
Twice the Temptation was a lovely historical romance. I really enjoyed reading it. Romance lovers, this book is worth checking out.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Catherine was a good heroine, but I didn't like her that much. She was much to prone to manipulation for my tastes. She didn't see anything wrong with messing with people to get what she wanted, but I definitely did. And, she tended to me needlessly overdramatic. It wasn't a huge problem, but I can't say that I liked her.
Lucas, on the other hand, was wonderful. He was so sweet and determined to win over the woman he loved. He was so sweet and adorable and I totally loved him.
The romance was good. Catherine and Lucas were sweet together, even though I didn't appreciate Catherine playing games with Lucas. The chemistry was definitely there and it led to some steamy moments. I thought these two were lovely together.
The plot was well paced. I was kept interested the entire way through. Unfortunately, there were some slow moments due to Catherine's stubbornness, but it wasn't a huge problem. I enjoyed the story and the ending was lovely.
Twice the Temptation was a lovely historical romance. I really enjoyed reading it. Romance lovers, this book is worth checking out.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
December 23, 2013
I love all Beverley Kendall's books. Have been waiting impatiently for Twice the Temptation to come out since reading An Heir of Deception. Twice the Temptation finally gave Catherine Rutherford (who had played such a big role in her sister, Charlotte's story in An Heir of Deception) her happy ending, although it was not a smooth journey. This story had my emotions engaged, I was happy, then sad, I cried, I wanted to smack Catherine sometimes and was not even sure Catherine and Lucas would ever develop the trust they needed. I cannot wait to read Meghan and Rhys's story next.
For those of you who have not read Beverley Kendall's Elusive Lords series, my advise is read it. Especially if you are going to read Twice the Temptation. Although you can read it as a standalone book, your experience would be better enhanced if you knew the back stories to all the characters you will meet in this book. Definitely read All's Fair in Love & Seduction, where you will get to meet Charlotte & Alex and Catherine. Then read Charlotte's & Alex's story in An Heir in Deception (you will meet Lucas) - It will grab you in the first chapter. You will go on an emotional roller coaster ride - as with all Beverley Kendall's books.
For those of you who have not read Beverley Kendall's Elusive Lords series, my advise is read it. Especially if you are going to read Twice the Temptation. Although you can read it as a standalone book, your experience would be better enhanced if you knew the back stories to all the characters you will meet in this book. Definitely read All's Fair in Love & Seduction, where you will get to meet Charlotte & Alex and Catherine. Then read Charlotte's & Alex's story in An Heir in Deception (you will meet Lucas) - It will grab you in the first chapter. You will go on an emotional roller coaster ride - as with all Beverley Kendall's books.
November 22, 2013
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lucas and Catherine had a powerful connection a year ago, before he returned to America to his family. But he's back now and he knows what he wants - to make Catherine his bride.
I really enjoyed reading this story because from the very beginning, they clearly wanted to be together. It made me more positive about the couple, more upbeat about their fate together rather than frustrated by the mishaps keeping them apart. Through a series of misunderstandings and a lack of open communication, Lucas and Catherine stand squarely in their own paths to each other.
There's some interesting bits around Catherine feeling she's the 'lesser' twin, and I wasn't entirely satisfied with how this was resolved, though Lucas does address it.
Otherwise, there's nothing overly memorable about the story, but it's still a delightful read. Definitely recommend!
For my complete review, see: To Each Their Own Reviews
Lucas and Catherine had a powerful connection a year ago, before he returned to America to his family. But he's back now and he knows what he wants - to make Catherine his bride.
I really enjoyed reading this story because from the very beginning, they clearly wanted to be together. It made me more positive about the couple, more upbeat about their fate together rather than frustrated by the mishaps keeping them apart. Through a series of misunderstandings and a lack of open communication, Lucas and Catherine stand squarely in their own paths to each other.
There's some interesting bits around Catherine feeling she's the 'lesser' twin, and I wasn't entirely satisfied with how this was resolved, though Lucas does address it.
Otherwise, there's nothing overly memorable about the story, but it's still a delightful read. Definitely recommend!
For my complete review, see: To Each Their Own Reviews
November 21, 2013
Beverley Kendall did it again! It is authors like her that makes me love historical romance. This book was emotional, but had a very satisfying HEA. I loved both the female and male character. What I loved most about the hero of this book was how deeply he loved the heroine, even though she was far from perfect. I loved the heroine, because of how imperfect she was. She wasn't bad, she just made bad choices. Beverley Kendall takes you deep into the characters, so that you understand why they made certain choices and how those choices were made with good intention, even if those choices ended badly. I am very excited to read the next book in this series!
November 19, 2013
Not as good as her other books. Also what just didn't click was the heroine not being a virgin, especially in a historical and how she was portrayed. Her character at the beginning of the book seemed to change half way through and become another heroine. Didn't really like her that much. The heroine was also hot and cold for the hero, kind of felt sorry for him. The hero was great.
Had a hard time finishing it. Love Beverley Kendall's books but sorry to say this is the first one I didn't love.
Had a hard time finishing it. Love Beverley Kendall's books but sorry to say this is the first one I didn't love.
March 8, 2014
This is the love story between Lucas Beauchamp and Catherine Rutherford, the twin sister of the heroine that was in Heir of Deception
.
Overall rating: 4 stars
Hero rating: 5 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Erotic tension/buildup rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes descriptiveness : 5 stars
Sex frequency: 4 stars
Writing flow/ grammar/: 5 stars
Denouement: 4 stars
The sexiness of the hero is sizzling!
.Overall rating: 4 stars
Hero rating: 5 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Erotic tension/buildup rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes descriptiveness : 5 stars
Sex frequency: 4 stars
Writing flow/ grammar/: 5 stars
Denouement: 4 stars
The sexiness of the hero is sizzling!
March 21, 2015
As much I loved a Heir of Deception, on the other hand, I did not like this book. I felt, I was reading a story about a trifling, willful twin sister. I have much respect for the Hero, based upon what I know now about love, I think I would have walked away from this female.
I don't think, I am interested in the remainder of the series because of the way these characters were presented.
There is nothing wrong with the story. I just cannot relate to these characters.
I don't think, I am interested in the remainder of the series because of the way these characters were presented.
There is nothing wrong with the story. I just cannot relate to these characters.
June 8, 2014
I can relate to Catherine's need to know that she's not just a substitute for her sister. The premise of the 3 ladies, trying to trap fortune-hunters into betraying themselves is far-fetched, given that the Ton is gossipy and few; the three ladies would be unmasked in their scheme. Still, the love story of Catherine and Lucas is intriguing.
August 9, 2016
This was on ok read. I really wanted to know how it would end. Not as good as the other books/stories/characters in this series but still good. Was a little too wordy/repetitive for my taste. Great Author.
January 1, 2016
Long and bad plot. I liked the previous Lords series ok, but this was terrible. This back and forth between the H/h was annoying. I can't forgive you, but I can't stop thinking of you, so the next time we meet, I succumb to your charms.... Repeat 10 times over diffident circumstances. Bleh.
February 18, 2016
Enjoyable read. Loved the plot, lots of ups and downs. Wow, Lucas is delish and American - what more would you want!
November 18, 2013
Was very good story line, it left you wanting more and wondering what was going on between Rhys and Meghan. It kept me captivated, did not put my book down once I started reading.
May 26, 2014
Great read.... Check out the rest of Beverley Kendall's books.... Awesome!!!
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