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Seduction #3
To Please A Lady
Eleanor wanted a night of passion. James just wanted to survive. Instead, they found an unexpected and forbidden love that threatens all they hold dear.
With her stunning beauty and impeccable reputation, Lady Eleanor Beckett is a society darling to emulate, respected by everyone in the ton. But Eleanor’s seemingly perfect life is marred by a dark secret. Determined to know happiness and passion just once, she travels in disguise to a place she’s heard whispers about for years: the infamous Lavender Hills Estate, a brothel that caters to women. There, she meets the surprisingly kind, strikingly handsome, and completely inappropriate James McKinnon, a man who may be just what she needs to melt the ice surrounding her broken heart.
James McKinnon is content at Lavender Hills Estate. Affable and handsome, it’s not surprising that James is one of Lady Lavender’s most popular men. He found the path out of crippling poverty through Lavender Hills, and with the money he makes from his work, he is able to support his widowed mother and young sister. James is surprised to find he cares for Eleanor, the beauty with the sad eyes. After all, he’s never cared for a client before - caring interferes with business. Unfortunately, society would never accept a relationship between an escort and a lady.
Despite their stations, Eleanor and James can't extinguish the passion they've ignited. Will they be able to break through the confines of London society, or will their forbidden love and complicated pasts destroy everything they care about - including each other?
With her stunning beauty and impeccable reputation, Lady Eleanor Beckett is a society darling to emulate, respected by everyone in the ton. But Eleanor’s seemingly perfect life is marred by a dark secret. Determined to know happiness and passion just once, she travels in disguise to a place she’s heard whispers about for years: the infamous Lavender Hills Estate, a brothel that caters to women. There, she meets the surprisingly kind, strikingly handsome, and completely inappropriate James McKinnon, a man who may be just what she needs to melt the ice surrounding her broken heart.
James McKinnon is content at Lavender Hills Estate. Affable and handsome, it’s not surprising that James is one of Lady Lavender’s most popular men. He found the path out of crippling poverty through Lavender Hills, and with the money he makes from his work, he is able to support his widowed mother and young sister. James is surprised to find he cares for Eleanor, the beauty with the sad eyes. After all, he’s never cared for a client before - caring interferes with business. Unfortunately, society would never accept a relationship between an escort and a lady.
Despite their stations, Eleanor and James can't extinguish the passion they've ignited. Will they be able to break through the confines of London society, or will their forbidden love and complicated pasts destroy everything they care about - including each other?
312 pages, Paperback
First published November 5, 2013
25 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
About the author
Lori Brighton
26 books722 followersAs a child, thoughts of far-off places and adventure consistently kept Lori up late at night. After graduating high school, she came to the conclusion that there was no better way to seek adventure and nourish her love of history than to become an archaeologist. She went on to receive a degree in anthropology, but digging in the dirt during humid Midwestern summers wasn’t exactly as fun as she thought it would be.
Instead, she went to work in an air conditioned museum where she spent her days surrounded by creepy Victorian animal mounts. Still, she wasn’t satisfied.
Deciding the people in her imagination were slightly more exciting than the dead things in a museum basement, she set out to write her first romance novel. That book was soundly rejected. As was the next. Years went by and she began to wonder if she’d ever see her dream fulfilled. Until one day she came up with an idea for a book that brought together her love of history and adventure: a book now titled Wild Heart. Since Wild Heart's release, Lori has written Historical Romance, Contemporary Paranormal Romance and Young Adult.
Lori currently resides in the Southern U.S., where she juggles her time between a husband, a son, a golden retriever, a cat and the many, many people in her imagination.
Instead, she went to work in an air conditioned museum where she spent her days surrounded by creepy Victorian animal mounts. Still, she wasn’t satisfied.
Deciding the people in her imagination were slightly more exciting than the dead things in a museum basement, she set out to write her first romance novel. That book was soundly rejected. As was the next. Years went by and she began to wonder if she’d ever see her dream fulfilled. Until one day she came up with an idea for a book that brought together her love of history and adventure: a book now titled Wild Heart. Since Wild Heart's release, Lori has written Historical Romance, Contemporary Paranormal Romance and Young Adult.
Lori currently resides in the Southern U.S., where she juggles her time between a husband, a son, a golden retriever, a cat and the many, many people in her imagination.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 12, 2021
Mostly 1869. Had potential but ultimately a disappointment.
This had more gloom than love story + involved revenge,
also a cruel spouse. MCs James & Lady Ellie both masked
their feelings & exceeded a reasonable limit on final good-
byes. (They reminded me of Columbo on the old Mystery
Movies, re-entering the picture). The author allotted too
much time to antagonists. James should have asserted
himself sooner & been less of a lapdog way before he met
Ellie. I saw little evidence of a sexy couple: too many start/
stops. I lost interest in the MCs.
This had more gloom than love story + involved revenge,
also a cruel spouse. MCs James & Lady Ellie both masked
their feelings & exceeded a reasonable limit on final good-
byes. (They reminded me of Columbo on the old Mystery
Movies, re-entering the picture). The author allotted too
much time to antagonists. James should have asserted
himself sooner & been less of a lapdog way before he met
Ellie. I saw little evidence of a sexy couple: too many start/
stops. I lost interest in the MCs.
July 17, 2014
The best aspect of this story is not the budding love between Eleanor and James, but rather James's transformation - growth, really, from that of a young man content with his job as a gigolo, to an independent man seeking revenge for his kidnapping and to protect the woman he loves, instead of just being the one to soothe her wounds. He gets a dark transformation, and it happens gradually and believably, though still packs quite a punch in some aspect of sudden changes of his personality and behavior. However, it is precisely due to his transformation that he was able to keep and protect Eleanor, become her knight in shining armor, and emerge victoriously as a Romantic hero.
Overall, this was an okay story, just there. 3.5 stars
Overall, this was an okay story, just there. 3.5 stars
November 7, 2013
So, as much as I love the dark and brooding, as evident from this book, the sweet and gentle can also be sexy. The third and final book in Lori Brighton's Seduction series tells the story of James, the always loyal member of Lady Lavender's brothel for women, and Eleanor, the unfortunate wife looking for passion.
From the very first of these books I knew I loved all three of these men. They were all very different from another yet I was able to find at least one trait about each that enamored me to them. Alex was the rebellious gentleman who spoke to the romantic in me, Gideon was the silent dangerous one who spoke to the naughty in me, and finally James was the sweet caring one who spoke to the good girl in me. I think of all the three of them Gideon might still be my favorite for obvious reasons, but James and Alex also wormed their way up to that land of love of mine for fictional characters.
I felt for James, angry at the way he'd been treated by Lady Lavender even though he seemed to be her favorite, and maybe that was the worst. I felt compassion for him because he was so loyal and unquestioning towards his captor, Lady Lavender, a true optimist if there ever was one in that place. He was childish somewhat in his view of the world he lived in, in the way he saw his employment at the brothel, and I could understand Alex and Gideon's frustration at his naiveté. It took a while for James to question why and how he was at Lady Lavender's, most likely thanks to a woman who was trying to escape her own demons. There are no words to explain just how protective I felt towards James because he was the most vulnerable among the three simply because he was the one who wanted to believe the good in Lady Lavender the most.
And poor Eleanor, or Ellie as James liked to refer to her. She was one the most unfortunate heroines I came across in a historical romance and I couldn't be happier for her to find her happiness, and to think she found it in the arms of sweet dear James who deserved love and caring just as much as she did, made it all the better. She was a truly strong woman, a wonderful match for James' kind heart.
As the books progressed, we got piece after piece about who Lady Lavender was, and how she came to be who she was and why, and the final pieces came in James' book to complete the picture. Up until now we've discovered certain things, but along with this book, the book of her favorite pet, we were able to see her point of view a little, for until now we've only read her through the eyes of others. There wasn't a huge revelation befitting a final book, or at least as much as I might've expected, but the things we learnt so far were more than enough. Besides, I think the biggest leap of all was James' loyalty crumbling, him finally starting to question the woman he felt compelled to respect for all these years.
I loved how all the characters, Alex and Gideon and their families, coming together once more to say goodbye to the reader, a wonderful family reunion hinting to many more to come off the pages. I loved each and every one of them, loved to see them finally finding the happiness they deserved, and although I could've certainly done with a more detailed epilogue, I liked the way things ended. There were a few side characters that I was hoping would make a more romantic reappearance but oh well, I have to be content with what I was given.
A sweet series that I'm very much glad to have discovered and that I recommend to all those who like historical romances as much as I do.
From the very first of these books I knew I loved all three of these men. They were all very different from another yet I was able to find at least one trait about each that enamored me to them. Alex was the rebellious gentleman who spoke to the romantic in me, Gideon was the silent dangerous one who spoke to the naughty in me, and finally James was the sweet caring one who spoke to the good girl in me. I think of all the three of them Gideon might still be my favorite for obvious reasons, but James and Alex also wormed their way up to that land of love of mine for fictional characters.
I felt for James, angry at the way he'd been treated by Lady Lavender even though he seemed to be her favorite, and maybe that was the worst. I felt compassion for him because he was so loyal and unquestioning towards his captor, Lady Lavender, a true optimist if there ever was one in that place. He was childish somewhat in his view of the world he lived in, in the way he saw his employment at the brothel, and I could understand Alex and Gideon's frustration at his naiveté. It took a while for James to question why and how he was at Lady Lavender's, most likely thanks to a woman who was trying to escape her own demons. There are no words to explain just how protective I felt towards James because he was the most vulnerable among the three simply because he was the one who wanted to believe the good in Lady Lavender the most.
And poor Eleanor, or Ellie as James liked to refer to her. She was one the most unfortunate heroines I came across in a historical romance and I couldn't be happier for her to find her happiness, and to think she found it in the arms of sweet dear James who deserved love and caring just as much as she did, made it all the better. She was a truly strong woman, a wonderful match for James' kind heart.
As the books progressed, we got piece after piece about who Lady Lavender was, and how she came to be who she was and why, and the final pieces came in James' book to complete the picture. Up until now we've discovered certain things, but along with this book, the book of her favorite pet, we were able to see her point of view a little, for until now we've only read her through the eyes of others. There wasn't a huge revelation befitting a final book, or at least as much as I might've expected, but the things we learnt so far were more than enough. Besides, I think the biggest leap of all was James' loyalty crumbling, him finally starting to question the woman he felt compelled to respect for all these years.
I loved how all the characters, Alex and Gideon and their families, coming together once more to say goodbye to the reader, a wonderful family reunion hinting to many more to come off the pages. I loved each and every one of them, loved to see them finally finding the happiness they deserved, and although I could've certainly done with a more detailed epilogue, I liked the way things ended. There were a few side characters that I was hoping would make a more romantic reappearance but oh well, I have to be content with what I was given.
A sweet series that I'm very much glad to have discovered and that I recommend to all those who like historical romances as much as I do.
October 31, 2013
My Rating: 4.5/5
Full of secrets, betrayals, and intense romance, To Please a Lady was a fantastic historical romance. It was a book that took me by surprise and I enjoyed every bit of it.
Eleanor was a strong heroine. Her marriage is a disaster. Her husband hits her and has the audacity to keep his mistress in the house next to theirs. She is miserable in her mistake of a marriage. But, that doesn't stop her from trying to gain what little happiness she can get. Even if it involves learning what passion really is from a prostitute in a male brothel. I really liked her. She was a tough lady, tougher than anyone gave her credit for. I thought she was great.
James was a sweetheart. He was very charming, kind, and completely devoted to caring for his loved ones. The only reason he agreed to be a male escort was because he wanted to save his mother and sister. And, don't let his affable exterior fool you into thinking he isn't a threat. He was a force to be reckoned with when he wanted to be. I really liked him. He was just wonderful.
The romance was intense. Maybe it was because of the forbidden factor, but their feelings for each other were very deep and strong. There was never any doubt of their feelings, even when they couldn't completely act on them. And, the chemistry between them was super hot, made even more so because they wouldn't let themselves be together. So, when they finally did get together, it was downright explosive. I thought they were a lovely couple.
Lady Lavender, James' pimp, for lack of a better word, was one piece of work. And not in a good way. This woman was crazy. Just, completely insane. The things she did, all for something that happened years ago and that none of the boys had any part in, were horrible. It was especially bad because James trusted her so much so, when he found out the truth, it was one hell of a betrayal. The secrets she was hiding were a huge surprise. She was a perfectly hateful character that made this book very interesting.
The plot was okay in regards to pacing. It was a little slow in some places. Not enough that a got bored or started skimming, but enough to be noticeable. Regardless, I was still kept interested the entire way through. I really enjoyed this unusual story and I thought the ending was perfect.
To Please a Lady was a wonderful historical romance. It definitely brought something knew into the world of romance. I haven't read the previous books in this series but, after reading this, I'm definitely going back to them. Lovers of romance, if you want something different and brilliant, then you have to read this book.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Full of secrets, betrayals, and intense romance, To Please a Lady was a fantastic historical romance. It was a book that took me by surprise and I enjoyed every bit of it.
Eleanor was a strong heroine. Her marriage is a disaster. Her husband hits her and has the audacity to keep his mistress in the house next to theirs. She is miserable in her mistake of a marriage. But, that doesn't stop her from trying to gain what little happiness she can get. Even if it involves learning what passion really is from a prostitute in a male brothel. I really liked her. She was a tough lady, tougher than anyone gave her credit for. I thought she was great.
James was a sweetheart. He was very charming, kind, and completely devoted to caring for his loved ones. The only reason he agreed to be a male escort was because he wanted to save his mother and sister. And, don't let his affable exterior fool you into thinking he isn't a threat. He was a force to be reckoned with when he wanted to be. I really liked him. He was just wonderful.
The romance was intense. Maybe it was because of the forbidden factor, but their feelings for each other were very deep and strong. There was never any doubt of their feelings, even when they couldn't completely act on them. And, the chemistry between them was super hot, made even more so because they wouldn't let themselves be together. So, when they finally did get together, it was downright explosive. I thought they were a lovely couple.
Lady Lavender, James' pimp, for lack of a better word, was one piece of work. And not in a good way. This woman was crazy. Just, completely insane. The things she did, all for something that happened years ago and that none of the boys had any part in, were horrible. It was especially bad because James trusted her so much so, when he found out the truth, it was one hell of a betrayal. The secrets she was hiding were a huge surprise. She was a perfectly hateful character that made this book very interesting.
The plot was okay in regards to pacing. It was a little slow in some places. Not enough that a got bored or started skimming, but enough to be noticeable. Regardless, I was still kept interested the entire way through. I really enjoyed this unusual story and I thought the ending was perfect.
To Please a Lady was a wonderful historical romance. It definitely brought something knew into the world of romance. I haven't read the previous books in this series but, after reading this, I'm definitely going back to them. Lovers of romance, if you want something different and brilliant, then you have to read this book.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
June 25, 2019
This is the third book in Lori Brighton’s Seduction trilogy and reintroduces the reader to the world of Lavender Hills, a brothel that caterers the wealthy women of the Ton. Although our hero is a male prostitute this is not an erotic historical romance, but instead a beautiful love story about two damaged people. Neither have lived perfect lives and both are scarred by their pasts. Lori Brighton did a great job of making me care about Eleanor and James, both individually and as a couple. This is a story about escaping your past, about the healing power of love and being able to embrace your future.
“You should be cherished,” he said gruffly. She was silent for a moment. “At one time I thought I would be”.
Although I really liked Eleanor, as she was a pretty awesome heroine, for me this story was all about James. In the first two books in Lori Brighton’s Seduction series he was the odd one out in the trio of boys brought to Lavender Hills, he didn’t resent Lady Lavender or his job as a male prostitute. In fact he was grateful to her, even defended her against Alex and Gideon’s accusations, he was even content with his job. Yet when he meets Eleanor the whispers of doubts begin, he starts to question Lady Lavender’s motives and her supposed friendship. Watching his transformation from a person content with their lot in life, believing they are lucky to even have a job, to someone who can picture having a future outside the walls of Lavender Hills is what made this book so special.
“And Ellie... She was merely a fantastical dream that could never be fulfilled”.
I wouldn’t describe either James or To Please a Lady as angst ridden but this is a slightly darker historical romance. This isn’t a world of flowers and unicorns and...
To read the full review visit http://bit.ly/1zjC92x
“You should be cherished,” he said gruffly. She was silent for a moment. “At one time I thought I would be”.
Although I really liked Eleanor, as she was a pretty awesome heroine, for me this story was all about James. In the first two books in Lori Brighton’s Seduction series he was the odd one out in the trio of boys brought to Lavender Hills, he didn’t resent Lady Lavender or his job as a male prostitute. In fact he was grateful to her, even defended her against Alex and Gideon’s accusations, he was even content with his job. Yet when he meets Eleanor the whispers of doubts begin, he starts to question Lady Lavender’s motives and her supposed friendship. Watching his transformation from a person content with their lot in life, believing they are lucky to even have a job, to someone who can picture having a future outside the walls of Lavender Hills is what made this book so special.
“And Ellie... She was merely a fantastical dream that could never be fulfilled”.
I wouldn’t describe either James or To Please a Lady as angst ridden but this is a slightly darker historical romance. This isn’t a world of flowers and unicorns and...
To read the full review visit http://bit.ly/1zjC92x
March 13, 2015
Oh the FEELS….. I think that phrase can best sum up this book. The emotional content of this historical romance is off the charts. For most of this book, I was in tears, both happy and painful; the other half was spent fist pumping when our hero and heroine came out happily in the end over obstacles small and large. That right there is my favorite part of this novel: the ability to move me to tears and make finish this puppy in 24 hours.
The romance in this book is to die for. Two very damaged souls who find comfort in each other and heal at the same time. I ask you, what’s not to love?! Any romance lover worth their salt will love this book for that element alone. James and Eleanor are a beautiful couple and balance each other out so well. The added twist that it’s the guy and not the girl who’s the prostitute is a nice element. But Lori’s ability to pack this much emotion into the pages would make this book worth reading despite that unique twist.
I also liked that the author wasn't afraid to draw in some pretty heavy subject matter to off balance some of the gentle sweet romance, all the while giving that romance some more depth. Domestic violence, slavery, betrayal, and rape all play a very tragic part to the story and makes the reader think about what Victorian morality is really all about. The author draws in all these bleak circumstances to set her romance against, and I have to admit that she’s able to balance the horrific and the romantic very well.
What results is a beautifully historical romance that I enjoyed immensely. The emotions are beautiful, the characters are ones I can pull for, and the author isn’t afraid to write about the dark as well as the light. To me, folks, this is what a historical romance should be. Highly, highly recommended!
The romance in this book is to die for. Two very damaged souls who find comfort in each other and heal at the same time. I ask you, what’s not to love?! Any romance lover worth their salt will love this book for that element alone. James and Eleanor are a beautiful couple and balance each other out so well. The added twist that it’s the guy and not the girl who’s the prostitute is a nice element. But Lori’s ability to pack this much emotion into the pages would make this book worth reading despite that unique twist.
I also liked that the author wasn't afraid to draw in some pretty heavy subject matter to off balance some of the gentle sweet romance, all the while giving that romance some more depth. Domestic violence, slavery, betrayal, and rape all play a very tragic part to the story and makes the reader think about what Victorian morality is really all about. The author draws in all these bleak circumstances to set her romance against, and I have to admit that she’s able to balance the horrific and the romantic very well.
What results is a beautifully historical romance that I enjoyed immensely. The emotions are beautiful, the characters are ones I can pull for, and the author isn’t afraid to write about the dark as well as the light. To me, folks, this is what a historical romance should be. Highly, highly recommended!
February 16, 2014
What a great book! It's romantic, exciting, thrilling, heart wrenching and is a bit naughty. Lori Brighton is great at creating characters that pop right out of the story and get into your heart. All the little bits of plot come together at the end in an exciting way. I'd love it if there were sequels to this story and characters. She is also a great writer. I plan to read her other 5 or 6 books in the future. She's written historical fiction and also paranormal romance. I'm anxious to see how her paranormal romance story plays out.
I received this book in a Goodreads Giveaway and am so happy I won!
I received this book in a Goodreads Giveaway and am so happy I won!
March 17, 2014
I was hooked from one page 1 and read this book over the weekend . I love how Ms. Brighton completely took the characters from start to finish and did not leave you hanging. This was a classic love story which took me deep within the storyline and had me cheering James and Ellie on to the end . Bravo !
September 13, 2015
Another good romance by this author and a lovely way to end a series. I really enjoyed how all three men took part in each book, but at the same time, the author focus in their particular love story.
James and Ellie worked well together and their obstacles weren't as predictable. Overall, a good historical romance.
James and Ellie worked well together and their obstacles weren't as predictable. Overall, a good historical romance.
October 11, 2013
Each page was better than the last. Just when you thought the story was over, another element was added or another character was introduced. The prologue will make you cry, so be warned.
I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2013
You have done it again, Lori Brighton!!
I love reading your books!!
I love reading your books!!
December 21, 2013
Amazing series!!! I love it!! Can there be more if not well it was a good end to this incredible series!!
July 7, 2019
Another great book
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December 28, 2013
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...
The 3rd book in Lori Brighton’s Seduction series, To Please A Lady, wasn’t bad overall, however was a bit of a drag for the majority of it. James was quite an underdeveloped character in the first two books. He came and went on and off in those; I knew he was one of Lady Lavender’s most devoted boys but I never really felt I knew him that well. This story starts out in Lavender Hill, the famous brothel that caters to the sexual needs of women only, as James was still working there while Alex and Gideon have made their escapes.
As for an intro, Lavender Hill, run by a beautiful but cold, lavender-eyed French woman named Ophelia is famous for its beautiful and experienced male prostitutes. They cater the needs of all sorts of women, be it virgins or bored housewives and widows, all for those who can pay the hefty price. The story also tells us about three boys who were brought in together by Ophelia in their early teens; Alex, Gideon and James. They have been her priced possessions, the most sought after among the women. Gideon has been the one to put doubts in Alex and James’s minds. He’s the most rebellious of them all. Gideon always thought there was something fishy about the way they were brought here together. Thankfully, he was successful in helping Alex escape this place, who is now happily married to Grace (book 1, To Seduce an Earl). Two years after Alex’s escape, Gideon also had his chance, thanks to one stubborn little red haired heiress, Elizabeth. Because of her, he now knows more about his own past, and though the truth may not have been pretty, Gideon has finally found the love of his life and the peace of mind that had always eluded him, alongside a title and financial stability.
Yet none of Gideon’s attempts were that successful in convincing James to look for a way out. However, by the end of book 2, To Capture a Rake, the seed of suspicion were planted inside James’ mind regarding his presence at Lavender Hill. James has been hovering, indecisive ever since, not knowing what he can do to change anything about his life. He was brought here so that he can provide for his mother and sister and save them from dire poverty. Ophelia promised him as such in the very beginning. James has been the good little whore for her, doing anything she asked for without any objection. He has the gentle demeanor, with green eyes and light brown hair that put women always at ease. He’s also one of the crowd favorite, as was Alex and Gideon for their specialties. Alex was always given virgins for his youthful good looks and Gideon has had the more experienced women who preferred rough play rather than gentle wooing.
One day, James is assigned to this married woman who has just visited brothel for the first time. She seems fidgety when Ophelia calls him in to have a talk to make the woman comfortable. One look at her and James’s heart stops beating, literally! She’s like one of those golden goddesses, with statuesque figure, creamy skin and large blue eyes. She seems very regal in bearing as well, no doubt the wife of some old, titled gentleman who can’t please his young wife in bed. And her name’s Eleanor. But as he goes to kiss her, Eleanor breaks off and runs out as if she can’t bear to do it. James thought she looked terrified at the prospect of experiencing pleasure, as she originally told Ophelia.
And James would’ve been correct no doubt had he knew about Eleanor’s life... because Eleanor was terrified, of her suspicious monster of a husband. Initially, I wasn’t too thrilled to know that she has decided to cheat on her husband. But as I begin learning of the hell she has been living under that SOB’s roof, I could only pray that she could make her escape; someday, somehow.
Eleanor must’ve been the most tortured heroine of this series. She comes from a noble but impoverished family and was sort of sold to her husband, Lord Beckett, who seduced her with sweet words of fake love, married her and in about a week, showed his real face to her, clear that the only thing he wanted was to possess her. Come to think of it, Eleanor’s wedding night musing told me he showed his true face on that very night, being cruel to her on her first time. And that’s been his way throughout, making Eleanor despise sex. Beckett started blatantly cheating on her with multiple women; even the maids of his house weren’t spared. He’d flaunt his mistresses to her as if to humiliate her in every possible way. Not conceiving the ever expected heir only worsened her stature in the house that was nothing sort of a prison to Eleanor, with a butler and servants always spying on her. Of course, being the woman and the wife, she has to maintain the façade of virtue and a picture of loving couple in front of the society, so no talking to other men. Any niggling suspicion (however misguided) of cheating and Beckett would beat the living daylight out of her. It was horrible, disgusting...... I was SO MAD at that filthy SOB, can’t even explain.
It’s not that Eleanor didn’t speak out. After 10 plus years into this, she has become somewhat resigned to the beatings and humiliation, knowing there’s no other way for her. Her family has already abandoned her in lieu of the money Beckett gave them. The only good thing, from all these, was the fact that her husband doesn’t force his sexual need on her anymore. A profound relief for Eleanor as she hates him touching her. I remember one scene where she finds him with his mistress. Later the woman, a dumb widow, comes to her making excuses on Beckett’s behalf, citing he’s ‘in love’ with her and that, in a MOC, things like this are bound to happen. Eleanor could only laugh at the woman’s idiocy but she also says something to her that I loved. She, at first, states the fact that hers also was a ‘love match’ or so she was led to believe by Beckett and not a MOC. Then she thanks the woman for taking him away from her bed and wished her all the luck, because no doubt she’d need it at some point when she inevitably faces the reality of Beckett’s ‘love’.
But what I failed to see was just why this man was so cruel to Eleanor. Yes, he was somewhat mentally imbalanced, no doubt, yet a good actor to fool everyone into thinking he’s a doting husband. And he’s also very amenable with his mistress. It’s like all his hatred was centered only on Eleanor, on a campaign of breaking her in every way. He accuses her of being cold and distant in bed being a crappy f*ck, he accuses her of never conceiving children. There was a mention of an abusive childhood, but I didn’t care. That guy was plain sh!t, at the height of sheer hypocrisy but only got away because it was that time when a woman was her husband’s property and no one cared whatever the hell happened to a married couple in private.
So going to the Lady Lavender’s was quite the rebellious step for Eleanor. But she had to hide it, knowing if the words get to Beckett, he’d probably kill her this time for ‘sullying his noble blood and name’. Eleanor, finally, wanted to know for once how it feels truly feels like to be with a man. But of course, she begins stalling her engagements. She sees James a few more times, being attracted to his manly beauty and gentle ways, but in none of those she actually has sex with him. James, feeling something was definitely wrong from Eleanor’s looks and fidgetiness, couldn’t stay away. He kept feeling protective of her and an urge reach out... maybe even help. Yet, apart from the fact that James is younger than her, Eleanor can’t see anything good coming from this unexpected attraction. At the end of the day, James is a prostitute, her husband is still alive and well… he can’t know of her secret meetings with James. You gotta believe that the guy was sick enough to commit murder.
But the first 70% or so of the book was pretty dragging, the reason why my attention was also wondering. It was, I believe, because Eleanor’s story was revealing slowing and there weren’t much of anything happening, except for those meetings, planned or otherwise and she running away from James scared of her husband. But when they finally have sex is when the story begins picking up its pace. This is also when James becomes aware of the bruises on Eleanor’s body, understanding dawning on him. Just what has been happening to her and why she has been so scared. It wasn’t her association with him, or scares of ruining her pristine reputation after all. James already knew that every touch of Eleanor’s showed that she craved it as much as James liked giving it to her. He is furious on her behalf but at the same time, helpless, not knowing how to save her. To make matters worse, he also kept finding clues that Ophelia might not have seen through her promises.
I could feel the despair of the situation, and the helplessness in both James and Eleanor. But still, I wasn’t sure if he was the right person to be Eleanor’s knight-in-shining-armor, or so to speak. I didn’t know if he was strong enough to take care of her. But he wanted to, that much was sure.
At one point, Eleanor becomes suspicious of Ophelia too, as James tells her of his own suspicion. She makes discreet queries, and hits the goldmine. She finds that indeed, Ophelia never send a penny to James’s family and they led a terrible time since his supposed disappearance from their life. It was only too sadly ironical that his mother was forced to sell her body until one day she was murdered. His father was already deceased, killing himself for reason; something James thought was caused by his own rudeness... which wasn’t entirely true as we learn later in the story. James’s sister ended up in a convent, still alive but barely living a life. Eleanor visits her in the excuses of donating money. The girl, it seemed, harbored misguided idea of the whispers she’d heard about James abandoning them for a luxurious life and selling his body. Which was only half truth as Eleanor defends James vehemently. But no matter, she’s unable to make the girl come away from the convent. And then, as she was leaving, Eleanor finds her nightmare waiting for her on the doorstep; Beckett with his chilling smile that screams retribution. It seems he’d found out about her and James.
I don’t think I have to spell it out that the SOB beats Eleanor, but this time she replies back, even knowing what’s coming for her. Eleanor was tired of this and she had come to realize that her feelings were not simple lust. She’s in love with James. James, who seemed to have an understanding of her inside and out in these couple of weeks that her husband of 10 plus years never did, nor even bothered. At the same time, James also gets the confirmation of Ophelia’s treachery. When he confronts her, Ophelia with that mad laugh confesses with glee that she had already told the viscount of his wife’s little trysts. James is shocked by the implications. He was already being kept in captivity but he manages to break free and run from Lavender Hills, in hopes of saving Eleanor, knowing she might not live to see him again.
Even though James beats the a$$hole and saves Eleanor, beaten but still alive, James had no idea what to do at that moment. Then he remembers Patience, Grace’s (h of book 1) sister. Patience has been pretty determined of helping Eleanor and James to be together since the moment she saw the hint of something special between them. Seeing no other viable options, its Patience James finally seeks out. In the inn where she was staying, Patience is appalled seeing the bruises on Eleanor’s body but ever the industrial girl does everything she can to take care of her. Then Mr. Smith happens by. Not surprising, considering we’ve already seen something between him and Patience in the first two books. At that point, a desperate James decides he’d take this chance and kill the bastard so that Eleanor doesn’t have to suffer ever in her life. Yah, he’d hang but at the least, Eleanor will live. Oh that was some stupid yet heart-wrenching decision from James, as the climax of the story begins unfolding.
Ophelia plays her dirty tricks again, because of course, she couldn’t let the last of her popular (and profitable) boys go so easily. I was fuming at this loco, reading just how she relished seeing James and Eleanor suffer when she comes there outside of the inn to taunt Eleanor. At the same time, James was being taken away by the police, based on the complaint filed by Beckett something in the lines of ‘kidnapping his wife and assaulting him’. It’s with Alex and Gideon’s help that James is finally able to escape the gallows just in time. I can’t explain how happy I was at the moment as they proved to James that the bond they formed so many years ago, as unwanted and surprising as it may have been, has not been broken. It has only strengthened, now that Alex and Gideon have known the love of a family, having their own. All they wanted James to have the same chance with Eleanor... But how? Would they run away together, in some other counties, living incognito? What can they do?
But the solution comes rather sooner than later...
If you read book 1 and 2, you’ll know that Ophelia was a victim of rape many years ago, instigated by Gideon’s nasty father. Alex’s father helped him in keeping this hidden. Here, it was revealed at last that James’s father was the coachman of Gideon’s father and knew of this incident, yet did nothing to save her. Hence Ophelia’s plotting of taking the boys and making prostitutes out of them. It was also seen many a times in the other books that Ophelia is not a sane individual anymore, too embroiled in her need for revenge. There was a scene at the end, a couple of pages told from her POV, the very first time in the series. It was probably done to garner some sympathy for her, but I really had none... and when she’s killed by another lunatic, Beckett, I felt nothing for any of them. The a$$hole finally gets his comeuppance but I say, way too easily- by hanging. I’m not really sure what happens to Lavender Hill after this ‘tragedy’ because there weren’t anything significant to wrap things up.
The epilogue was beautiful. It takes place a year or so after this story. We see a bit of it in book 2. Now it’s clear that in that gathering of families, Alex and Gideon were waiting for James to arrive with Eleanor... Watching Alex, Gideon and James having fun together with their own families was a treat for me and a satisfying ending to the series. However, I hope someday, Patience and Mr. Smith get to have their own book. Their chemistry is just too good to ignore. 3.5 stars.
This ARC was provided to me by Montlake Romance via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
The 3rd book in Lori Brighton’s Seduction series, To Please A Lady, wasn’t bad overall, however was a bit of a drag for the majority of it. James was quite an underdeveloped character in the first two books. He came and went on and off in those; I knew he was one of Lady Lavender’s most devoted boys but I never really felt I knew him that well. This story starts out in Lavender Hill, the famous brothel that caters to the sexual needs of women only, as James was still working there while Alex and Gideon have made their escapes.
As for an intro, Lavender Hill, run by a beautiful but cold, lavender-eyed French woman named Ophelia is famous for its beautiful and experienced male prostitutes. They cater the needs of all sorts of women, be it virgins or bored housewives and widows, all for those who can pay the hefty price. The story also tells us about three boys who were brought in together by Ophelia in their early teens; Alex, Gideon and James. They have been her priced possessions, the most sought after among the women. Gideon has been the one to put doubts in Alex and James’s minds. He’s the most rebellious of them all. Gideon always thought there was something fishy about the way they were brought here together. Thankfully, he was successful in helping Alex escape this place, who is now happily married to Grace (book 1, To Seduce an Earl). Two years after Alex’s escape, Gideon also had his chance, thanks to one stubborn little red haired heiress, Elizabeth. Because of her, he now knows more about his own past, and though the truth may not have been pretty, Gideon has finally found the love of his life and the peace of mind that had always eluded him, alongside a title and financial stability.
Yet none of Gideon’s attempts were that successful in convincing James to look for a way out. However, by the end of book 2, To Capture a Rake, the seed of suspicion were planted inside James’ mind regarding his presence at Lavender Hill. James has been hovering, indecisive ever since, not knowing what he can do to change anything about his life. He was brought here so that he can provide for his mother and sister and save them from dire poverty. Ophelia promised him as such in the very beginning. James has been the good little whore for her, doing anything she asked for without any objection. He has the gentle demeanor, with green eyes and light brown hair that put women always at ease. He’s also one of the crowd favorite, as was Alex and Gideon for their specialties. Alex was always given virgins for his youthful good looks and Gideon has had the more experienced women who preferred rough play rather than gentle wooing.
One day, James is assigned to this married woman who has just visited brothel for the first time. She seems fidgety when Ophelia calls him in to have a talk to make the woman comfortable. One look at her and James’s heart stops beating, literally! She’s like one of those golden goddesses, with statuesque figure, creamy skin and large blue eyes. She seems very regal in bearing as well, no doubt the wife of some old, titled gentleman who can’t please his young wife in bed. And her name’s Eleanor. But as he goes to kiss her, Eleanor breaks off and runs out as if she can’t bear to do it. James thought she looked terrified at the prospect of experiencing pleasure, as she originally told Ophelia.
And James would’ve been correct no doubt had he knew about Eleanor’s life... because Eleanor was terrified, of her suspicious monster of a husband. Initially, I wasn’t too thrilled to know that she has decided to cheat on her husband. But as I begin learning of the hell she has been living under that SOB’s roof, I could only pray that she could make her escape; someday, somehow.
Eleanor must’ve been the most tortured heroine of this series. She comes from a noble but impoverished family and was sort of sold to her husband, Lord Beckett, who seduced her with sweet words of fake love, married her and in about a week, showed his real face to her, clear that the only thing he wanted was to possess her. Come to think of it, Eleanor’s wedding night musing told me he showed his true face on that very night, being cruel to her on her first time. And that’s been his way throughout, making Eleanor despise sex. Beckett started blatantly cheating on her with multiple women; even the maids of his house weren’t spared. He’d flaunt his mistresses to her as if to humiliate her in every possible way. Not conceiving the ever expected heir only worsened her stature in the house that was nothing sort of a prison to Eleanor, with a butler and servants always spying on her. Of course, being the woman and the wife, she has to maintain the façade of virtue and a picture of loving couple in front of the society, so no talking to other men. Any niggling suspicion (however misguided) of cheating and Beckett would beat the living daylight out of her. It was horrible, disgusting...... I was SO MAD at that filthy SOB, can’t even explain.
It’s not that Eleanor didn’t speak out. After 10 plus years into this, she has become somewhat resigned to the beatings and humiliation, knowing there’s no other way for her. Her family has already abandoned her in lieu of the money Beckett gave them. The only good thing, from all these, was the fact that her husband doesn’t force his sexual need on her anymore. A profound relief for Eleanor as she hates him touching her. I remember one scene where she finds him with his mistress. Later the woman, a dumb widow, comes to her making excuses on Beckett’s behalf, citing he’s ‘in love’ with her and that, in a MOC, things like this are bound to happen. Eleanor could only laugh at the woman’s idiocy but she also says something to her that I loved. She, at first, states the fact that hers also was a ‘love match’ or so she was led to believe by Beckett and not a MOC. Then she thanks the woman for taking him away from her bed and wished her all the luck, because no doubt she’d need it at some point when she inevitably faces the reality of Beckett’s ‘love’.
But what I failed to see was just why this man was so cruel to Eleanor. Yes, he was somewhat mentally imbalanced, no doubt, yet a good actor to fool everyone into thinking he’s a doting husband. And he’s also very amenable with his mistress. It’s like all his hatred was centered only on Eleanor, on a campaign of breaking her in every way. He accuses her of being cold and distant in bed being a crappy f*ck, he accuses her of never conceiving children. There was a mention of an abusive childhood, but I didn’t care. That guy was plain sh!t, at the height of sheer hypocrisy but only got away because it was that time when a woman was her husband’s property and no one cared whatever the hell happened to a married couple in private.
So going to the Lady Lavender’s was quite the rebellious step for Eleanor. But she had to hide it, knowing if the words get to Beckett, he’d probably kill her this time for ‘sullying his noble blood and name’. Eleanor, finally, wanted to know for once how it feels truly feels like to be with a man. But of course, she begins stalling her engagements. She sees James a few more times, being attracted to his manly beauty and gentle ways, but in none of those she actually has sex with him. James, feeling something was definitely wrong from Eleanor’s looks and fidgetiness, couldn’t stay away. He kept feeling protective of her and an urge reach out... maybe even help. Yet, apart from the fact that James is younger than her, Eleanor can’t see anything good coming from this unexpected attraction. At the end of the day, James is a prostitute, her husband is still alive and well… he can’t know of her secret meetings with James. You gotta believe that the guy was sick enough to commit murder.
But the first 70% or so of the book was pretty dragging, the reason why my attention was also wondering. It was, I believe, because Eleanor’s story was revealing slowing and there weren’t much of anything happening, except for those meetings, planned or otherwise and she running away from James scared of her husband. But when they finally have sex is when the story begins picking up its pace. This is also when James becomes aware of the bruises on Eleanor’s body, understanding dawning on him. Just what has been happening to her and why she has been so scared. It wasn’t her association with him, or scares of ruining her pristine reputation after all. James already knew that every touch of Eleanor’s showed that she craved it as much as James liked giving it to her. He is furious on her behalf but at the same time, helpless, not knowing how to save her. To make matters worse, he also kept finding clues that Ophelia might not have seen through her promises.
I could feel the despair of the situation, and the helplessness in both James and Eleanor. But still, I wasn’t sure if he was the right person to be Eleanor’s knight-in-shining-armor, or so to speak. I didn’t know if he was strong enough to take care of her. But he wanted to, that much was sure.
At one point, Eleanor becomes suspicious of Ophelia too, as James tells her of his own suspicion. She makes discreet queries, and hits the goldmine. She finds that indeed, Ophelia never send a penny to James’s family and they led a terrible time since his supposed disappearance from their life. It was only too sadly ironical that his mother was forced to sell her body until one day she was murdered. His father was already deceased, killing himself for reason; something James thought was caused by his own rudeness... which wasn’t entirely true as we learn later in the story. James’s sister ended up in a convent, still alive but barely living a life. Eleanor visits her in the excuses of donating money. The girl, it seemed, harbored misguided idea of the whispers she’d heard about James abandoning them for a luxurious life and selling his body. Which was only half truth as Eleanor defends James vehemently. But no matter, she’s unable to make the girl come away from the convent. And then, as she was leaving, Eleanor finds her nightmare waiting for her on the doorstep; Beckett with his chilling smile that screams retribution. It seems he’d found out about her and James.
I don’t think I have to spell it out that the SOB beats Eleanor, but this time she replies back, even knowing what’s coming for her. Eleanor was tired of this and she had come to realize that her feelings were not simple lust. She’s in love with James. James, who seemed to have an understanding of her inside and out in these couple of weeks that her husband of 10 plus years never did, nor even bothered. At the same time, James also gets the confirmation of Ophelia’s treachery. When he confronts her, Ophelia with that mad laugh confesses with glee that she had already told the viscount of his wife’s little trysts. James is shocked by the implications. He was already being kept in captivity but he manages to break free and run from Lavender Hills, in hopes of saving Eleanor, knowing she might not live to see him again.
Even though James beats the a$$hole and saves Eleanor, beaten but still alive, James had no idea what to do at that moment. Then he remembers Patience, Grace’s (h of book 1) sister. Patience has been pretty determined of helping Eleanor and James to be together since the moment she saw the hint of something special between them. Seeing no other viable options, its Patience James finally seeks out. In the inn where she was staying, Patience is appalled seeing the bruises on Eleanor’s body but ever the industrial girl does everything she can to take care of her. Then Mr. Smith happens by. Not surprising, considering we’ve already seen something between him and Patience in the first two books. At that point, a desperate James decides he’d take this chance and kill the bastard so that Eleanor doesn’t have to suffer ever in her life. Yah, he’d hang but at the least, Eleanor will live. Oh that was some stupid yet heart-wrenching decision from James, as the climax of the story begins unfolding.
Ophelia plays her dirty tricks again, because of course, she couldn’t let the last of her popular (and profitable) boys go so easily. I was fuming at this loco, reading just how she relished seeing James and Eleanor suffer when she comes there outside of the inn to taunt Eleanor. At the same time, James was being taken away by the police, based on the complaint filed by Beckett something in the lines of ‘kidnapping his wife and assaulting him’. It’s with Alex and Gideon’s help that James is finally able to escape the gallows just in time. I can’t explain how happy I was at the moment as they proved to James that the bond they formed so many years ago, as unwanted and surprising as it may have been, has not been broken. It has only strengthened, now that Alex and Gideon have known the love of a family, having their own. All they wanted James to have the same chance with Eleanor... But how? Would they run away together, in some other counties, living incognito? What can they do?
But the solution comes rather sooner than later...
If you read book 1 and 2, you’ll know that Ophelia was a victim of rape many years ago, instigated by Gideon’s nasty father. Alex’s father helped him in keeping this hidden. Here, it was revealed at last that James’s father was the coachman of Gideon’s father and knew of this incident, yet did nothing to save her. Hence Ophelia’s plotting of taking the boys and making prostitutes out of them. It was also seen many a times in the other books that Ophelia is not a sane individual anymore, too embroiled in her need for revenge. There was a scene at the end, a couple of pages told from her POV, the very first time in the series. It was probably done to garner some sympathy for her, but I really had none... and when she’s killed by another lunatic, Beckett, I felt nothing for any of them. The a$$hole finally gets his comeuppance but I say, way too easily- by hanging. I’m not really sure what happens to Lavender Hill after this ‘tragedy’ because there weren’t anything significant to wrap things up.
The epilogue was beautiful. It takes place a year or so after this story. We see a bit of it in book 2. Now it’s clear that in that gathering of families, Alex and Gideon were waiting for James to arrive with Eleanor... Watching Alex, Gideon and James having fun together with their own families was a treat for me and a satisfying ending to the series. However, I hope someday, Patience and Mr. Smith get to have their own book. Their chemistry is just too good to ignore. 3.5 stars.
This ARC was provided to me by Montlake Romance via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2017
I'm not into books that promote adultery, no matter how disgusting the spouse or reasons behind it. Other than that, the book wasn't bad.
March 19, 2015
4.5 stars
The third in a series about three men working at a brothel. I recommend reading this series in order although I guess it can be read as a standalone.
But the story about how three young lads ended up together with a madam called Lady Lavender plays out over all three novels and I think its worth it to read them in order.
I was really looking forward to the story of James as I was a bit baffled on why he was the happy one out of the three with being in the brothel. I just knew there was much more to this and I was not disappointing. I also found his story to be the most heartbreaking out of the three because of the trust he had in the madam and how he even thought of her as some kind of savior and friend. That is what made the betrayal so devastating.
The heroine is suffering from horrible spousal abuse and in a way they are both in their own prisons. Because of the struggles and the suffering, their love just felt so deep and believable. They really had to dig deep to be together. Like the first two in the series, this one is a page turner. I just had to keep reading. The characters are not always just black and white and there is a deep thread of revenge woven through it all.
This is the kind of historical romance I love. Every emotion is played out and because of the writing, I felt everything.
We are all a result of our experiences and some are able to rise above them and others cannot. I absolutely love the layers in the characters. They are flawed, deep and feel like real people.
Love this series. It has some darker themes at times, but sometimes I like a bit more meat with my romance reading like I got here. It makes the payoff all the sweeter.
** thanks to Netgalley, Montlake Romance and Lori Brighton for providing the eARC
The third in a series about three men working at a brothel. I recommend reading this series in order although I guess it can be read as a standalone.
But the story about how three young lads ended up together with a madam called Lady Lavender plays out over all three novels and I think its worth it to read them in order.
I was really looking forward to the story of James as I was a bit baffled on why he was the happy one out of the three with being in the brothel. I just knew there was much more to this and I was not disappointing. I also found his story to be the most heartbreaking out of the three because of the trust he had in the madam and how he even thought of her as some kind of savior and friend. That is what made the betrayal so devastating.
The heroine is suffering from horrible spousal abuse and in a way they are both in their own prisons. Because of the struggles and the suffering, their love just felt so deep and believable. They really had to dig deep to be together. Like the first two in the series, this one is a page turner. I just had to keep reading. The characters are not always just black and white and there is a deep thread of revenge woven through it all.
This is the kind of historical romance I love. Every emotion is played out and because of the writing, I felt everything.
We are all a result of our experiences and some are able to rise above them and others cannot. I absolutely love the layers in the characters. They are flawed, deep and feel like real people.
Love this series. It has some darker themes at times, but sometimes I like a bit more meat with my romance reading like I got here. It makes the payoff all the sweeter.
** thanks to Netgalley, Montlake Romance and Lori Brighton for providing the eARC
November 4, 2013
*ARC from NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
James McKinnon was “saved” from the streets by Lady Lavender and raised to be a “pleasurer” of women. He is part of the demi-monde where their services are highly coveted but completely condemned. He is fully content to be Lady Lavenders “pet” unlike his friends Alex and Gideon who have escaped and are trying to take his blinders off. Enter Eleanor, a battered society wife wanting, just once, to find real pleasure…a couple of attempts later and they do succeed to do the deed. James starts to feel discontent and starts questioning Lady Lavender and Eleanor is slowly or maybe finally at that stage where she wants out, period. Both in what you would call a dysfunctional relationship, they find and draw strength from each other, striving to escape their similar forms of bondage. Alex and Gideon prove to be true friends and in helping our star-crossed lovers. I thoroughly enjoyed both James and Eleanor and their journey to independence and love. I would have loved to know Alex and Gideon’s story and I hope that I get to read about Patience.
James McKinnon was “saved” from the streets by Lady Lavender and raised to be a “pleasurer” of women. He is part of the demi-monde where their services are highly coveted but completely condemned. He is fully content to be Lady Lavenders “pet” unlike his friends Alex and Gideon who have escaped and are trying to take his blinders off. Enter Eleanor, a battered society wife wanting, just once, to find real pleasure…a couple of attempts later and they do succeed to do the deed. James starts to feel discontent and starts questioning Lady Lavender and Eleanor is slowly or maybe finally at that stage where she wants out, period. Both in what you would call a dysfunctional relationship, they find and draw strength from each other, striving to escape their similar forms of bondage. Alex and Gideon prove to be true friends and in helping our star-crossed lovers. I thoroughly enjoyed both James and Eleanor and their journey to independence and love. I would have loved to know Alex and Gideon’s story and I hope that I get to read about Patience.
January 21, 2014
To Please a Lady is a complex, intriguing, and sometimes heartbreaking story of two people dealing with issues of abuse, self-image, love and forgiveness.
To Please a Lady is actually the last in a series about three men who were blackmailed into prostitution by Lady Lavender and if you have an interest in reading the others, I’d recommend waiting on this one. The whys of their situation come out in this finale and it could possibly affect the way you read the series, but I don’t know that for sure. I haven’t read To Seduce an Earl or To Capture a Rake so I don’t know how much of the details that are shared in this book have already played out in the others. So, with that warning, let me tell you that I did enjoy this book although I think I might have liked it more if it hadn’t been the only one I’d read. There are a lot of statements made about the other men and I think I might have missed out on some of the nuances since I didn’t know their story. Apart from that though, James and Ellie’s story was very entertaining.
Full review available at http://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress...
To Please a Lady is actually the last in a series about three men who were blackmailed into prostitution by Lady Lavender and if you have an interest in reading the others, I’d recommend waiting on this one. The whys of their situation come out in this finale and it could possibly affect the way you read the series, but I don’t know that for sure. I haven’t read To Seduce an Earl or To Capture a Rake so I don’t know how much of the details that are shared in this book have already played out in the others. So, with that warning, let me tell you that I did enjoy this book although I think I might have liked it more if it hadn’t been the only one I’d read. There are a lot of statements made about the other men and I think I might have missed out on some of the nuances since I didn’t know their story. Apart from that though, James and Ellie’s story was very entertaining.
Full review available at http://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress...
November 28, 2013
Lori Brighton’s trilogy about Lady Lavender, owner of brothel that provides “entertainment” for women, ends with this novel. Primarily it is a story about revenge and the ways that nurturing hatred can ruin a person’s life. In a way, Lady Lavender reminds me of the old adage that hatred is like taking poison and waiting to see if your enemy dies. In this novel, the last of the trilogy, James McKinnon, Lady Lavender’s most loyal supporter, comes to see that she is only using him as she has used and abused so many. But to Brighton’s credit, even Lady Lavender in her despicable behavior arouses our sympathy, giving us a complex villain. The strengths of the novel are its insights into domestic abuse, self-image, women’s sexuality, and forgiveness. The action is good and the characters well developed. Although the premise is a little far fetched, Brighton has done some interesting things with this trilogy and I recommend them.
September 24, 2014
h: Lady Eleanor Beckett
H: James McKinnon
This book starts when lady Eleanor goes to Lavender Hills Estate to try to see what "passion and pleasure" is like, Being in a loveless marriage she has never experienced it. She is held high in the ton as a respectable married women so she must hide it and go under wrap.
James Mckinnon was "saved" by Lady Lavender as a young man and brought to here estate to become one of her most popular lover for hirer.
In this Book you learn a lot about both James and Eleanor backgrounds and past which have brought them both to this point. I really enjoyed this book it had some steamy scenes but not to many that it took away from the book. I really liked it!!! I will be reading and rereading this book for years to come. Great Job
H: James McKinnon
This book starts when lady Eleanor goes to Lavender Hills Estate to try to see what "passion and pleasure" is like, Being in a loveless marriage she has never experienced it. She is held high in the ton as a respectable married women so she must hide it and go under wrap.
James Mckinnon was "saved" by Lady Lavender as a young man and brought to here estate to become one of her most popular lover for hirer.
In this Book you learn a lot about both James and Eleanor backgrounds and past which have brought them both to this point. I really enjoyed this book it had some steamy scenes but not to many that it took away from the book. I really liked it!!! I will be reading and rereading this book for years to come. Great Job
December 1, 2013
This will be a tricky review to post. It will be hard as there are so many ways that can't be explained without a spoiler. I'll start by saying that I see this book as a reverse romance story. You will see how just after the beginning of the story. There is the abused wife. Then comes a hidden romance that goes to blazes when it is uncovered. This was a difficult book for me to read. This story sucked me in and would not let me go. When I wasn't able to read I would be rethinking what I had already read. It is a dark romance and I have to say it is an Adult book and not necessarily because of sex. I would recommend this book to you but just remember it will pull you in.
January 23, 2014
Audiobook Narrated by Fiona Underwood.
I liked this book but didn't love it as I loved the two previous books. The story line was good but wasn't great. I never really connected with the characters and always felt like something was missing.
In the previous books, Ms. Underwood performed the narration but in this one it seemed like she was simply reading the word on page.
It could simply be that my expectations were very high. I may give this book another chance and revise my review.
I liked this book but didn't love it as I loved the two previous books. The story line was good but wasn't great. I never really connected with the characters and always felt like something was missing.
In the previous books, Ms. Underwood performed the narration but in this one it seemed like she was simply reading the word on page.
It could simply be that my expectations were very high. I may give this book another chance and revise my review.
January 9, 2014
Kind of a disappointing end to this trilogy. The story lagged the whole time and the resolution happened way too quickly and cleanly.
September 22, 2025
This book was pretty good, it kept me intrested the whole way through.
June 16, 2015
Love
I enjoy the whole series. The three books are great.
I enjoy the whole series. The three books are great.
I enjoy the whole series. The three books are great.
I enjoy the whole series. The three books are great.
June 17, 2014
2.5 stars.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews