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Kellington #6
Never Turn Away
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B00GH6X6WK, found here
When Bow Street Inspector Joseph Stapleton is sent to Oxfordshire to help the daughter of an earl, little does he know how the mission will affect him personally.
Lady Evelyn Williams must marry within weeks, but she has never met a gentleman of the ton whom she would even consider as a potential husband. Then she encounters the brave, handsome man from London.
NEVER TURN AWAY is the story of a love that defies society's expectations. It is the conclusion -- for now -- of the Kellington series of Regency romances.
ADVISORY: This book contains explicit language and adult situations. You won't like this book if you don't like either of those two things. It's a little bit of history and a lot of explicit language and adult situations.
When Bow Street Inspector Joseph Stapleton is sent to Oxfordshire to help the daughter of an earl, little does he know how the mission will affect him personally.
Lady Evelyn Williams must marry within weeks, but she has never met a gentleman of the ton whom she would even consider as a potential husband. Then she encounters the brave, handsome man from London.
NEVER TURN AWAY is the story of a love that defies society's expectations. It is the conclusion -- for now -- of the Kellington series of Regency romances.
ADVISORY: This book contains explicit language and adult situations. You won't like this book if you don't like either of those two things. It's a little bit of history and a lot of explicit language and adult situations.
283 pages, ebook
First published November 5, 2013
788 people are currently reading
725 people want to read
About the author
Maureen Driscoll
29 books192 followersMaureen Driscoll is an Emmy-nominated writer/producer in Hollywood, whose writing credits include "MADtv," "Jimmy Kimmel Live," and Nickelodeon's "BrainSurge."
Maureen's latest project is a serialized novel, Fracked, available on Amazon's Vella platform. The paranormal romance is about what happens when fracking opens up a portal to hell and the only people able to save the Earth are the residents of an over-55 community.
She has two Regency romance series about the Kellington and Emerson families, and a series set in the early Victoria era about the residents of Jasmine Cottage. She is also the author of the Remington Mansion time-travel/cozy mystery trilogy and a contemporary romance series about the wealthy Carmichael family in Los Angeles.
She loves hearing from her readers at Maureen Driscoll Author on Facebook, as well as on Twitter @MaureenDriscoll. Her blog, MaureenDriscollRomance.Wordpress.com, is top secret because she never ever updates it.
She is very grateful to Mayhem Cover Creations for the book covers.
Maureen's latest project is a serialized novel, Fracked, available on Amazon's Vella platform. The paranormal romance is about what happens when fracking opens up a portal to hell and the only people able to save the Earth are the residents of an over-55 community.
She has two Regency romance series about the Kellington and Emerson families, and a series set in the early Victoria era about the residents of Jasmine Cottage. She is also the author of the Remington Mansion time-travel/cozy mystery trilogy and a contemporary romance series about the wealthy Carmichael family in Los Angeles.
She loves hearing from her readers at Maureen Driscoll Author on Facebook, as well as on Twitter @MaureenDriscoll. Her blog, MaureenDriscollRomance.Wordpress.com, is top secret because she never ever updates it.
She is very grateful to Mayhem Cover Creations for the book covers.
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August 9, 2016
(Following the climactic rescue in Never Deny Your Heart , Liam offers Bow Street Inspector Joseph Stapleton to recuperate from his injuries at one of the family country estates. While there, Liam would be most appreciative if Joseph would assist a neighbor resolve a problem that would affect the adjoining Kellington property. The travel gives Joseph time to contemplate possible changes in his life and perhaps life in the country could be what he needs. Immediately enchanted upon meeting, Joseph is eager to assist Lady Evelyn Williams, no matter her problem. Though equally enchanted with Joseph, Evelyn relates that she is in danger of losing her lands and her fortune if she does not marry within the next few weeks. Evelyn requires Josph to assist her locating a suitable husband, preferably in the country but in London if necessary. Evelyn also tells Joseph that the male cousin her fortune would go to is unscrupulous and possibly forged the document stating he would inherit, she also tells him that her family would like her to marry one of her more lecherous and untrustworthy cousins, giving him control of the fortune. Though their growing attraction makes the task distasteful, Evelyn dutifully arranges outings with local suitors that include Joseph so he can provide input. When the local suitor are found lacking and life threatening accidents begin to occur with alarming frequency, Evelyn and Joseph make their way to London. As usual for the series, Evelyn's family is definitely not nice as they do their best to warn Joseph away, admonishing him against compromising her reputation as they push for their desired candidate.
After being adopted by the Kellington siblings, Joseph had to know his bachelor days were numbered, it wouldn't take long to ensnare Joseph in the throes of wedded bliss. I liked the cleverness of getting Joseph and Evelyn together, but found little mention of the actual problem affecting both estates. Some of the new secondary characters were interesting and amusing, unfortunately wouldn't be seen again, like the owner of the local store trying to sell Joseph a tonic for his vitality. It was also amusing as the country suitors each challenged Joseph to an outrageous show of masculinity. I liked that the Kellingtons were each around for the final good-bye but missed their meddling throughout the story. Also, it was a tad puzzling that with Evelyn's looks and fortune drew few suitors as they were in the height of the winter season.
As a series whole, the writing style is reminiscent of a time gone by. Flirtatious glances that say so much more, a single gloved touch or glimpse of a throat set your chosen's body aflame make this an easy and comfortable read for curling up or laying out on the beach. While the writing was a major draw, I also loved the vividly drawn characters that felt like old friends and quick pace of the read. I despised the covers, which were not my taste. Unfortunately no other installments have been announced for this series, so this is either goodbye to Kellingtons, or see you much later. I hope it's the latter. As a parting gift, a few interesting deleted scenes were tucked in behind the epiloge.
Original Read: March 12, 2014
Rating: 4.5 Stars Actually
More reviews can be found at: http://www.ireadthatbook.com
After being adopted by the Kellington siblings, Joseph had to know his bachelor days were numbered, it wouldn't take long to ensnare Joseph in the throes of wedded bliss. I liked the cleverness of getting Joseph and Evelyn together, but found little mention of the actual problem affecting both estates. Some of the new secondary characters were interesting and amusing, unfortunately wouldn't be seen again, like the owner of the local store trying to sell Joseph a tonic for his vitality. It was also amusing as the country suitors each challenged Joseph to an outrageous show of masculinity. I liked that the Kellingtons were each around for the final good-bye but missed their meddling throughout the story. Also, it was a tad puzzling that with Evelyn's looks and fortune drew few suitors as they were in the height of the winter season.
As a series whole, the writing style is reminiscent of a time gone by. Flirtatious glances that say so much more, a single gloved touch or glimpse of a throat set your chosen's body aflame make this an easy and comfortable read for curling up or laying out on the beach. While the writing was a major draw, I also loved the vividly drawn characters that felt like old friends and quick pace of the read. I despised the covers, which were not my taste. Unfortunately no other installments have been announced for this series, so this is either goodbye to Kellingtons, or see you much later. I hope it's the latter. As a parting gift, a few interesting deleted scenes were tucked in behind the epiloge.
Original Read: March 12, 2014
Rating: 4.5 Stars Actually
More reviews can be found at: http://www.ireadthatbook.com
November 28, 2013
I looked forward to this story as much as I dreaded it; it was finally time for our Stapleton, the infamous Bow Street Runner to have his HEA, but it is also to be a last Kellington book; not what I was looking forward to.
I can tell you I loved each story that has been written so far, and even though our Joseph is only an ‘honorary’ brother to the Kellington brood, his story is as well told as all the others.
The plot was well-developed and executed with clues to the villain well hidden; every character that has been introduced to us, helped the main characters come more to life; pace of the story had a steady flow and never lagged; the intimate scenes were spontaneous and sensual and bringing all the Kellington’s in to help this romantic couple out, was a stroke of genius.
But what I loved most of all was the dialogue; no matter if it was spoken or thought by our couple, Kellington’s, Evelyn’s suitors or secondary characters, I merrily chuckled from page to page.
Here is Evelyn’s thought about one of her suitors:
“One well-meaning gentleman had even told her she would be better served if she appeared to be less smart and more agreeable. She had responded by telling him he would be better served with more time spent in a library and less time dispensing asinine advice.”
In a Mrs. Trowbridge’s store [who has two daughters she’d gladly throw into Joseph’s direction], while perusing the merchandise, she spots the coin purse.
“Evelyn wagged the hideous thing about as if it were the crown jewels. “This is a fine piece of artistry. Did Anna or Marida paint the cow?”
“That, Lady Evelyn, is not a cow. It is my mother.”
Evelyn telling Joseph about the men she ....Thanks for coming over to finish reading this review....
http://bookworm2bookworm.wordpress.co...
Melanie for b2b
*Book provided by the author.
I can tell you I loved each story that has been written so far, and even though our Joseph is only an ‘honorary’ brother to the Kellington brood, his story is as well told as all the others.
The plot was well-developed and executed with clues to the villain well hidden; every character that has been introduced to us, helped the main characters come more to life; pace of the story had a steady flow and never lagged; the intimate scenes were spontaneous and sensual and bringing all the Kellington’s in to help this romantic couple out, was a stroke of genius.
But what I loved most of all was the dialogue; no matter if it was spoken or thought by our couple, Kellington’s, Evelyn’s suitors or secondary characters, I merrily chuckled from page to page.
Here is Evelyn’s thought about one of her suitors:
“One well-meaning gentleman had even told her she would be better served if she appeared to be less smart and more agreeable. She had responded by telling him he would be better served with more time spent in a library and less time dispensing asinine advice.”
In a Mrs. Trowbridge’s store [who has two daughters she’d gladly throw into Joseph’s direction], while perusing the merchandise, she spots the coin purse.
“Evelyn wagged the hideous thing about as if it were the crown jewels. “This is a fine piece of artistry. Did Anna or Marida paint the cow?”
“That, Lady Evelyn, is not a cow. It is my mother.”
Evelyn telling Joseph about the men she ....Thanks for coming over to finish reading this review....
http://bookworm2bookworm.wordpress.co...
Melanie for b2b
*Book provided by the author.
August 21, 2022
I am definitely in the minority here. This author’s writing style is very “tell” and not “show”, and I ended up skimming it because the characters are not brought to life at ALL. Everything is stiff and descriptive. It’s hard to explain
February 9, 2019
Never Turn Away is the last of The Fabulous and Amazing Kellington series.
Joseph Stapleton A Bow Street Runner and Lady Evelyn Williams, the daughter of a deceased Earl and wealthy Heiress made a delightful couple. The story is so engaging with well developed characters an well developed storyline. Joseph and Evelyn have a very romantic loving and sensual relationship. It took a bit to get to the hot sexual relationship that Ms. Driscoll can write extremely well and tasteful, but it was still a very sensual story. Very fast paced. You want to see this couple get together so much. They so deserve each other.
We also, get a good appearance of the Kellington family. The only problems I had with the story was Jane & Lizzie still haven't had there babies an this is the last book in the series. That was disappointing. Maybe Ms. Driscoll will give a reunion book to completely end the Kellington series. Even a novella would do to finish it out properly. The other problem I had was Joseph's horse Rocinante, the name is very distracting becasue their is no pronunciation for it. I kept stopping just to figure out how to pronounce it!! Maybe its just me! Doing that breaks up a story. I just wish if authors are going to use unusual names they would give the pronunciation for it. Even with that it was still a 5 star book. I Highly Recommend the Kellington series to all the lovers of Historical Romance or any Romance book.
Joseph Stapleton A Bow Street Runner and Lady Evelyn Williams, the daughter of a deceased Earl and wealthy Heiress made a delightful couple. The story is so engaging with well developed characters an well developed storyline. Joseph and Evelyn have a very romantic loving and sensual relationship. It took a bit to get to the hot sexual relationship that Ms. Driscoll can write extremely well and tasteful, but it was still a very sensual story. Very fast paced. You want to see this couple get together so much. They so deserve each other.
We also, get a good appearance of the Kellington family. The only problems I had with the story was Jane & Lizzie still haven't had there babies an this is the last book in the series. That was disappointing. Maybe Ms. Driscoll will give a reunion book to completely end the Kellington series. Even a novella would do to finish it out properly. The other problem I had was Joseph's horse Rocinante, the name is very distracting becasue their is no pronunciation for it. I kept stopping just to figure out how to pronounce it!! Maybe its just me! Doing that breaks up a story. I just wish if authors are going to use unusual names they would give the pronunciation for it. Even with that it was still a 5 star book. I Highly Recommend the Kellington series to all the lovers of Historical Romance or any Romance book.
November 20, 2013
The best was certainly saved for last and as much as I enjoyed the first five books in this series - I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book!
The writing was wonderful, the plot believable, and the love scenes were hot - what more could you want??
I loved Joseph & Evelyn - they were funny, smart & passionate - and they were perfect together.
It was great watching them fall in love and it was wonderful to catch up with the Kellington siblings.
I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys historical romance. There are six books in this series and each one is different and unique - not the same story slightly altered that so often happens in series novels. Maureen Driscoll is an author worth reading and I look forward to her next series!!
The writing was wonderful, the plot believable, and the love scenes were hot - what more could you want??
I loved Joseph & Evelyn - they were funny, smart & passionate - and they were perfect together.
It was great watching them fall in love and it was wonderful to catch up with the Kellington siblings.
I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys historical romance. There are six books in this series and each one is different and unique - not the same story slightly altered that so often happens in series novels. Maureen Driscoll is an author worth reading and I look forward to her next series!!
September 1, 2017
I enjoyed this novel by Maureen Driscoll. It wasn't as good as the previous one I'd read, but still worth my time reading. I enjoyed both characters and found the arch of their romance believable. I also enjoyed the supporting cast and the plot line. Lady Evelyn was a strong female character and wasn't wishy washy in her decisions. I liked her interactions with Joseph and appreciated how the author used their strong mindedness to be an asset to the relationship, rather than a hindrance. I would like to at some point back-track and read the other novels in this series.
February 18, 2014
This was a great installment in the Kellington series, and I hope it isn't the last. I get the feeling that we will see a book about Ridgeway ( the guy who openly admitted he needed to marry for money and was quite charming about it). As for this book, I thought the plot was interesting and engaging, and the love between the hero and heroine was very believable. I also liked the fact that the heroine was purposely looking for a husband that wasn't part of the ton. That really made the story unique. Seeing more of the Kellington siblings was a nice treat as well.
December 5, 2013
What a great book to end the series on! Joseph and Evelyn are a wonderful couple, the chemistry between them jumps off the page! As always, Ms Driscoll gives her characters such a great sense of humor. The banter between Joseph and Evelyn when they're untangling the ewe is priceless. The entire Kellington clan is a delight and I've enjoyed seeing the development of each couple as the series progressed. Looking forward to the next series with the Earl of Ridgeway!
September 8, 2016
4.5* so sad to finish this series but enjoyed it so much.
January 25, 2019
Never Turn Away is the sixth and last book in the Kellington series. Set in Caversham, Oxfordshire, 1822. This story includes all the Kellington family couples thus far, and have them play an active match-making part in Joseph’s romantic coupling. The Kellington’s treat Joseph as one of the family despite their difference in class, and Joseph is invited to all family occasions. It’s a sentimental way to finish a series when you can revisit the entire family and their new spouses.
I was surprised by this book. Better pacing, better story-telling, better character interactions, and therefore it eclipsed Liam’s book for me and is the pick of the series, imo.
We meet the Kellington family whose parents named them after four kings and one queen of England. William Kellington, the Duke of Lynwood, is every inch the powerful aristocrat. Dedicated to his three brothers and only sister - Edward, Arthur, Henry, and Elizabeth - Lynwood has been the head of the family since the death of their parents from sudden fever more than a decade earlier in 1809. At nineteen, William took on ducal responsibilities and the care of his younger siblings.
Never a Mistress, No Longer a Maid: 4- stars (Edward known as Ned)
Never Miss a Chance: 3- stars (Elizabeth known as Lizzie)
Never Wager Against Love: 3 stars (Arthur)
Never Run From Love: 4 stars (Henry known as Hal)
Never Deny Your Heart: 4+ stars (William known as Liam)
Never Turn Away: 5- stars (Joseph - close family friend)
Joseph Stapleton is a Bow Street Runner and a good friend of Liam, the Duke of Lynwood. Sent to Oxfordshire by Liam to help the daughter of an earl, Joseph first meets this lady in a situation where he mistakes her for a farm lad. Joseph is a great Hero with a heart-breaking backstory.
Lady Evelyn Williams must marry within weeks because of a questionable codicil that has been found in her father’s Will and suddenly presented by her greedy relatives. It’s validity cannot be proven so Evelyn must find a husband very soon if she is to keep the family estates out of the hands of her conniving cousins. Having her wealth attract fortune hunters is not new to Evelyn. Gentlemen of the Ton who are in debt seek Evelyn out for her fortune but she’d prefer to marry someone who loved her for her personality and for who she was - a smart and educated woman. When she first meets Joseph, he mistakes her for a farm lad then treats her as a farmer’s daughter, not as an heiress. Evelyn finds this very refreshing...and attractive.
Jospeh and Evelyn’s sexy times were the best of the series. They had flirtatious banter and a strong attraction which made the story fun and believable. Their meet-cute in the snow-covered fields with the bleating sheep was great.
I highly recommend this book. I recommend this series.
I was surprised by this book. Better pacing, better story-telling, better character interactions, and therefore it eclipsed Liam’s book for me and is the pick of the series, imo.
We meet the Kellington family whose parents named them after four kings and one queen of England. William Kellington, the Duke of Lynwood, is every inch the powerful aristocrat. Dedicated to his three brothers and only sister - Edward, Arthur, Henry, and Elizabeth - Lynwood has been the head of the family since the death of their parents from sudden fever more than a decade earlier in 1809. At nineteen, William took on ducal responsibilities and the care of his younger siblings.
Never a Mistress, No Longer a Maid: 4- stars (Edward known as Ned)
Never Miss a Chance: 3- stars (Elizabeth known as Lizzie)
Never Wager Against Love: 3 stars (Arthur)
Never Run From Love: 4 stars (Henry known as Hal)
Never Deny Your Heart: 4+ stars (William known as Liam)
Never Turn Away: 5- stars (Joseph - close family friend)
Joseph Stapleton is a Bow Street Runner and a good friend of Liam, the Duke of Lynwood. Sent to Oxfordshire by Liam to help the daughter of an earl, Joseph first meets this lady in a situation where he mistakes her for a farm lad. Joseph is a great Hero with a heart-breaking backstory.
Lady Evelyn Williams must marry within weeks because of a questionable codicil that has been found in her father’s Will and suddenly presented by her greedy relatives. It’s validity cannot be proven so Evelyn must find a husband very soon if she is to keep the family estates out of the hands of her conniving cousins. Having her wealth attract fortune hunters is not new to Evelyn. Gentlemen of the Ton who are in debt seek Evelyn out for her fortune but she’d prefer to marry someone who loved her for her personality and for who she was - a smart and educated woman. When she first meets Joseph, he mistakes her for a farm lad then treats her as a farmer’s daughter, not as an heiress. Evelyn finds this very refreshing...and attractive.
Jospeh and Evelyn’s sexy times were the best of the series. They had flirtatious banter and a strong attraction which made the story fun and believable. Their meet-cute in the snow-covered fields with the bleating sheep was great.
I highly recommend this book. I recommend this series.
February 18, 2025
4⭐️
This was my first book by Maureen, but it definitely won’t be my last. She has a wealth of stories that seem right up my alley, and I’m excited to dive into more of her work. That said, Never Turn Away wasn’t my favorite. There was something about it that just didn’t fully click for me—I can’t quite put my finger on what was missing, but I found myself pushing through rather than feeling truly excited to read it.
The premise had a lot of promise. Bow Street Inspector Joseph Stapleton is sent to Oxfordshire to assist Lady Evelyn Williams, the daughter of an earl, who must marry within weeks but hasn’t met a single gentleman she’d consider a suitable husband. When she crosses paths with the brave, handsome inspector from London, everything changes. The story is a love match that defies society’s expectations and serves as the conclusion (for now) of the Kellington series.
I love a good Bow Street runner romance, and Joseph was such a great character—he started off somewhat to me as just as a rakish character cause he was presented in the beginning as a man who loves sex, his job & sex thennnn I saw him really become this dashing inspector but by the end, he had completely won me over. His transformation throughout the book was really well done, and I found myself swooning over him. Evelyn was wonderful too—strong-willed and likable. Despite really enjoying the characters, the story itself just didn’t fully captivate me the way I’d hoped. That being said, Maureen’s writing was excellent, exactly the style I look for in historical romance, so I’m looking forward to exploring more of her books!
This was my first book by Maureen, but it definitely won’t be my last. She has a wealth of stories that seem right up my alley, and I’m excited to dive into more of her work. That said, Never Turn Away wasn’t my favorite. There was something about it that just didn’t fully click for me—I can’t quite put my finger on what was missing, but I found myself pushing through rather than feeling truly excited to read it.
The premise had a lot of promise. Bow Street Inspector Joseph Stapleton is sent to Oxfordshire to assist Lady Evelyn Williams, the daughter of an earl, who must marry within weeks but hasn’t met a single gentleman she’d consider a suitable husband. When she crosses paths with the brave, handsome inspector from London, everything changes. The story is a love match that defies society’s expectations and serves as the conclusion (for now) of the Kellington series.
I love a good Bow Street runner romance, and Joseph was such a great character—he started off somewhat to me as just as a rakish character cause he was presented in the beginning as a man who loves sex, his job & sex thennnn I saw him really become this dashing inspector but by the end, he had completely won me over. His transformation throughout the book was really well done, and I found myself swooning over him. Evelyn was wonderful too—strong-willed and likable. Despite really enjoying the characters, the story itself just didn’t fully captivate me the way I’d hoped. That being said, Maureen’s writing was excellent, exactly the style I look for in historical romance, so I’m looking forward to exploring more of her books!
December 14, 2022
Joseph & Evelyn
This was an interesting intriguing spicy 🔥🔥🔥 book 📕 and I loved it. The H is a strong handsome virile Bow Street Inspector that is a friend to the Kellington Family. The family considers H as a brother and they all will stand up for each other. The h is the H neighbor at his country estate and she asks him for help to find a husband before the end of the year (they are in December). There is an urgency because there is a codicil saying that if she doesn’t marry by that time she loses her inheritance and estate to her cousin. The friend calls H to investigate the problem so the h meets H when she is trying to rescue one of her ewe. They get to know each other and because they have a strong attraction there are touches glances and kisses. The H eliminates the 3 country suitors off the list of possible husbands so they go to London to see if they come up with someone better in the ton ballrooms (which they don’t). Of course both H & h aren’t looking very hard as both their hearts ❤️ are engaged with each other. The h is a Lady daughter of an Earl and the H is a common man who grew up in the poorest stews so the H cannot accept that society will cut her and she will suffer for it. However she doesn’t care a wit about it. The Kellington friends all maneuver them to end up with each other. The story would not be complete without a villain and one of the country suitors is in cahoots with the cousin-in-law are the ones in this book 📕. They try to kill h a couple of times and then kidnap her to force her to marry her cousin. H rescues her and they have their HEA. I loved both MC and the plot was exciting without too much trauma (lighthearted) and the romance was steamy 🔥🔥🔥 when they do make love. It was a good read and I recommend it.
This was an interesting intriguing spicy 🔥🔥🔥 book 📕 and I loved it. The H is a strong handsome virile Bow Street Inspector that is a friend to the Kellington Family. The family considers H as a brother and they all will stand up for each other. The h is the H neighbor at his country estate and she asks him for help to find a husband before the end of the year (they are in December). There is an urgency because there is a codicil saying that if she doesn’t marry by that time she loses her inheritance and estate to her cousin. The friend calls H to investigate the problem so the h meets H when she is trying to rescue one of her ewe. They get to know each other and because they have a strong attraction there are touches glances and kisses. The H eliminates the 3 country suitors off the list of possible husbands so they go to London to see if they come up with someone better in the ton ballrooms (which they don’t). Of course both H & h aren’t looking very hard as both their hearts ❤️ are engaged with each other. The h is a Lady daughter of an Earl and the H is a common man who grew up in the poorest stews so the H cannot accept that society will cut her and she will suffer for it. However she doesn’t care a wit about it. The Kellington friends all maneuver them to end up with each other. The story would not be complete without a villain and one of the country suitors is in cahoots with the cousin-in-law are the ones in this book 📕. They try to kill h a couple of times and then kidnap her to force her to marry her cousin. H rescues her and they have their HEA. I loved both MC and the plot was exciting without too much trauma (lighthearted) and the romance was steamy 🔥🔥🔥 when they do make love. It was a good read and I recommend it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2024
The Lady and the Bow Street Runner
Bow Street Runner Joseph Stapleton is doing a favor for his friend the Duke of Linwood by traveling to Oxfordshire. The Duke’s neighbor Evelyn Williams has asked for his help with a matter that can impact the Duke as well as herself and the community. Out for a ride Joseph notices a small man grappling with a sheep and decides to see if he can help. The man is a lady and he makes some assumptions that make him cringe when he discovers the lady is indeed the person he has been sent to help. Their conversation is lively and witty and any touch can send sparks flying but she is a lady and being associated with him could cause her to be in disfavor with the ton. Trying to help her find a husband before she loses her inheritance proves difficult because he wants to plant a facer on any man who approaches her.
Lively with a good plot and lots of interesting characters a mystery and some danger this is very enjoyable. As part of a series I have enjoyed it is even more interesting.
Bow Street Runner Joseph Stapleton is doing a favor for his friend the Duke of Linwood by traveling to Oxfordshire. The Duke’s neighbor Evelyn Williams has asked for his help with a matter that can impact the Duke as well as herself and the community. Out for a ride Joseph notices a small man grappling with a sheep and decides to see if he can help. The man is a lady and he makes some assumptions that make him cringe when he discovers the lady is indeed the person he has been sent to help. Their conversation is lively and witty and any touch can send sparks flying but she is a lady and being associated with him could cause her to be in disfavor with the ton. Trying to help her find a husband before she loses her inheritance proves difficult because he wants to plant a facer on any man who approaches her.
Lively with a good plot and lots of interesting characters a mystery and some danger this is very enjoyable. As part of a series I have enjoyed it is even more interesting.
April 8, 2019
This was hardly 3/5 read for me, or may be I had higher expectations. The story was all right, plot was average, not much twists to start with. I loved Eveline and Joseph, also loved All the supporting characters, though I have not read any of the other books in the series. I was glad I could read this one all by itself.
Eveline was kind, caring and independent. Liked her a lot. She's everything a romance book heroine should be. I would have loved for her to be little more assertive as well.
Joseph was really confused about what he wants in life and how badly he wants it. so I have a mixed feelings about him.
Eveline was kind, caring and independent. Liked her a lot. She's everything a romance book heroine should be. I would have loved for her to be little more assertive as well.
Joseph was really confused about what he wants in life and how badly he wants it. so I have a mixed feelings about him.
September 18, 2020
Harmless
I had to laugh at the warning in the blurb --beware of steamy sex scenes--because there really wasn't much along those lines. Yes, some heavy petting and several references to what couples were doing out of sight (often), but really not much that would make someone swoon in mortification.
I do question why so many writers don't know more about anatomy, though. Does no one know where a hymen is? Most seem to believe it's a barrier before the cervix, given how so many guys push their way in and encounter the mysterious maidenhead once they're well in there. That's not how vaginas work, people! 😄
I had to laugh at the warning in the blurb --beware of steamy sex scenes--because there really wasn't much along those lines. Yes, some heavy petting and several references to what couples were doing out of sight (often), but really not much that would make someone swoon in mortification.
I do question why so many writers don't know more about anatomy, though. Does no one know where a hymen is? Most seem to believe it's a barrier before the cervix, given how so many guys push their way in and encounter the mysterious maidenhead once they're well in there. That's not how vaginas work, people! 😄
January 29, 2021
The final book in the Kellington series - and all about the Kellington friend, Joseph, a Bow Street Inspector, since we've run out of Kellington family members -- but still a good read. I've enjoyed these books. The complexity of the stories and the society rules and regulations -- the strong women and the romance. The explicit sex might not suit everybody, but I didn't find it just a gimmick but an enhancement to the stories. I don't know why the reader was warned about the sex in this book since I thought it was on par with the others. In My favorite is the first the series -- but I have liked them all.
November 3, 2018
Great addition to the series
Our Bow Street Inspector finds his match with a little Kellington help. I would like to know more about the painting with the former Duke and Duchess in Jasmine House, the addition of which to this story was very intriguing. A bit of danger adds suspense until Joseph finally succumbs to Lady Evelyn despite the class difference.
The only criticism I have is the Christmas scene with the large tree. Prince Albert introduced small table top trees to England but this was during Queen Victoria 's reign, not the Regency post Waterloo.
Our Bow Street Inspector finds his match with a little Kellington help. I would like to know more about the painting with the former Duke and Duchess in Jasmine House, the addition of which to this story was very intriguing. A bit of danger adds suspense until Joseph finally succumbs to Lady Evelyn despite the class difference.
The only criticism I have is the Christmas scene with the large tree. Prince Albert introduced small table top trees to England but this was during Queen Victoria 's reign, not the Regency post Waterloo.
September 4, 2017
Never Turn Away
This is the first book of the Kellingtons that I have read and it was simply delightful. A historical romance that leans toward the erotic with characters you can't help but love. A glimpse into what family means both those of blood and those of choice. I just couldn't stop reading and I really must find the next book so I know how things turn out for Lord Ridgeway. Great book!
This is the first book of the Kellingtons that I have read and it was simply delightful. A historical romance that leans toward the erotic with characters you can't help but love. A glimpse into what family means both those of blood and those of choice. I just couldn't stop reading and I really must find the next book so I know how things turn out for Lord Ridgeway. Great book!
February 10, 2018
A good story of love surmounting privilege
There were a few times I was laughing aloud especially when Joseph listens to the inane chatter of the suitors. I really enjoyed the sensuality of this couple and their initial lovemaking, but overall all of the couples in this series are engaging and the reader cannot help feeling a part of this unusual family. I'm still laughing at the progression of the portrait!
There were a few times I was laughing aloud especially when Joseph listens to the inane chatter of the suitors. I really enjoyed the sensuality of this couple and their initial lovemaking, but overall all of the couples in this series are engaging and the reader cannot help feeling a part of this unusual family. I'm still laughing at the progression of the portrait!
October 21, 2021
Bow Street gets his woman
I absolutely loved Joseph and Evelyns story. Joseph is not only a bastard but a working investigator for Bow Street. He has become great friends to all of the Kellingtons and their spouses.
Lady Evelyn is a neighbor of Liams to the north and asks for his help. Since Liam was just married he sends Joseph in his place but also for an ulterior motive.
A beautifully written story with a wonderful ending.
I absolutely loved Joseph and Evelyns story. Joseph is not only a bastard but a working investigator for Bow Street. He has become great friends to all of the Kellingtons and their spouses.
Lady Evelyn is a neighbor of Liams to the north and asks for his help. Since Liam was just married he sends Joseph in his place but also for an ulterior motive.
A beautifully written story with a wonderful ending.
July 10, 2024
Happy and Sad!
What an amazing saga! Loved every minute of each book! I feel like the Kellington’s are family. Especially Vi and fell in love with the cat too! So happy for each story. Sooo Sad this is the end! Everyone was woven together and became a beautiful rainbow. I hope to see more from this lovely storyteller thank you for sharing this family saga and all the love they created!
What an amazing saga! Loved every minute of each book! I feel like the Kellington’s are family. Especially Vi and fell in love with the cat too! So happy for each story. Sooo Sad this is the end! Everyone was woven together and became a beautiful rainbow. I hope to see more from this lovely storyteller thank you for sharing this family saga and all the love they created!
October 8, 2025
a disgusting view of women
We start out with a man’s view of flirting with women only to want sex with them, this goes on, starting to become a theme.
That’s when I stop reading.
Of course the man reforms and falls in love with the typical hea, as is this genres whole entertainment when it is not a good thought out story, but that view of women just to be used for a mans entertainment is appalling and is still the main focus of many men today.
Come on! Do better authours.
We start out with a man’s view of flirting with women only to want sex with them, this goes on, starting to become a theme.
That’s when I stop reading.
Of course the man reforms and falls in love with the typical hea, as is this genres whole entertainment when it is not a good thought out story, but that view of women just to be used for a mans entertainment is appalling and is still the main focus of many men today.
Come on! Do better authours.
June 25, 2017
It was OK slightly steamy read. The H is Bow St runner, recovering from an injury, asked to look out for h who needs to marry to protect her estate and servants. The back story is a major part of the second half, so a lot of characters have conversations full of steamy innuendo inked to previous books in the series.
December 11, 2017
Enjoyable finale
I've enjoyed these books-each a good story with a feisty heroine and alpha hero. A smattering of history. Quite a bit of spicy romance. A very occasional slip with Americanisms which annoy me for a moment but are quickly forgotten- I can remember the usual reference to something being a block away. Otherwise very enjoyable!
I've enjoyed these books-each a good story with a feisty heroine and alpha hero. A smattering of history. Quite a bit of spicy romance. A very occasional slip with Americanisms which annoy me for a moment but are quickly forgotten- I can remember the usual reference to something being a block away. Otherwise very enjoyable!
May 2, 2020
Bow Street Inspector gets his Lady
This story was a very enjoyable escape. Well written highly likable characters, sensual sexy story with just enough adventure, The independent ladies of the Kellington family find another of their ilk, Its always good to find your people and start your family.
This story was a very enjoyable escape. Well written highly likable characters, sensual sexy story with just enough adventure, The independent ladies of the Kellington family find another of their ilk, Its always good to find your people and start your family.
June 29, 2022
I enjoyed this novel mainly because of the two main characters, Joseph and Evelyn, who were from different stations in life. She didn't really care for society and finally convinced Joseph of that. I am glad Joseph, a bow street runner, finally got his happy ending. I thought the scenes concerning the portrait of Kellington's parents was funny and cute, especially at the end.
August 10, 2023
Never Turn Away
Kellington Book 6 was a fantastic read and the Painting must have been an amazing focal point to this amazing family.The match making of this lot with the servants also,Devine.With still a nasty element that would surprise at the end.But all comes to right and wedding also to finish off this delightful read.
Kellington Book 6 was a fantastic read and the Painting must have been an amazing focal point to this amazing family.The match making of this lot with the servants also,Devine.With still a nasty element that would surprise at the end.But all comes to right and wedding also to finish off this delightful read.
June 23, 2017
A good, quick read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It moved along, the characters were likeable, even the servants. Not as much sex as we were warned at the beginning. Enjoy the trsd!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It moved along, the characters were likeable, even the servants. Not as much sex as we were warned at the beginning. Enjoy the trsd!
July 17, 2017
Good book
I liked the whole series even though it became repetitive. I am glad I read the individual stories otherwise there would be too many characters. Will we know about the impending pregnancies?
I liked the whole series even though it became repetitive. I am glad I read the individual stories otherwise there would be too many characters. Will we know about the impending pregnancies?
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