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Seduction #1
To Seduce an Earl
For years, Alex Weston has plied his trade at Lavender Hills, an all-male brothel catering to London’s most fashionable women. His beauty and sexual prowess are legendary, yet his charmed life masks an ugly truth. Alex is a prisoner in a gilded cage, blackmailed into service and desiring only freedom—until the night she walks through his door…
Grace Brisbane is desperate. Her dying mother needs medicine she cannot afford, and her dissolute stepbrother is gambling away what little money remains. Her only hope of saving her family is to marry the Earl of Rodrick, her brother’s wealthy best friend. There’s just one Rodrick has no interest in virgins. To win him, Grace must learn the secrets of seduction. Secrets Alex knows all too well…
It should be a simple business transaction. And yet with a single kiss, Grace ignites a passion unlike any Alex has ever known…and unlike any she could ever imagine. They are not free to love—but their hearts will accept nothing less.
Grace Brisbane is desperate. Her dying mother needs medicine she cannot afford, and her dissolute stepbrother is gambling away what little money remains. Her only hope of saving her family is to marry the Earl of Rodrick, her brother’s wealthy best friend. There’s just one Rodrick has no interest in virgins. To win him, Grace must learn the secrets of seduction. Secrets Alex knows all too well…
It should be a simple business transaction. And yet with a single kiss, Grace ignites a passion unlike any Alex has ever known…and unlike any she could ever imagine. They are not free to love—but their hearts will accept nothing less.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2011
86 people are currently reading
857 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 - 30 of 106 reviews
April 15, 2012
To Seduce an Earl begins in 1867 at Lady Lavender’s Estate of Seduction (remember that date) - a house of ill repute for the London ladies. Alex Weston's specialty is seducing young virgins and teaching them the ways of lurve before they're married off to their gruesome wealthy husbands. Enter Grace Brisbane who thinks she's at Lady Lavender's to pick up a book or something, but she's really been sent by her brother to learn how to seduce his drinking/gambling pal the Earl of Rodrick (he needs the money so's he can drink and gamble some more). It is insta-love with Alex and Grace, and the rest of the story revolves around Alex's never-ending pity party about being a "whore", along with his efforts to escape the clutches of the evil Lady Lavender (she blackmailed him into prostitution at age 13).
OK, so I know the whorehouse catering to the ladies is a bit of a stretch, but taxes were hell this year and I really needed some brain candy, but fluff or no, I still expect a somewhat realistic historical setting and you aren't going to get it here (more on this subject later). The language and mindset are much too modern, all our virginal heroine needed was a couple of heavy pettings and she knew exactly how to handle a man's you-know-what without any cribbing from Alex. No shy young Victorian Miss here. Speaking of language, be warned because the "F" bomb is dropped frequently, and "cock" is abused to death. I began wishing for Bertrice Small and her "manroot". Almost.
Then there are the typos. I believe this is self-published, but you still would think someone would look at the final product before putting it on the market, wouldn't you?
"lavacious"
I believe that should be lascivious.
"No taundry sexuall affair as most women would have admitted to him."
"Either groppping women..."
"Everything he held dare..."
Editor, wherefore art thou?
Now back to the historical setting. I understand that some readers want a sexed up wallpaper romance, and I'm not knocking your reading preferences, but I am not one of them. Towards the end of the book Alex and Grace are exploring a storage room at a museum filled with Russian artifacts.
"She glanced toward the case again. Royal artifacts, most likely. She stepped closer, focusing on the card in the case. “Czar Nicholas the Second,” she read."
Remember I said the story began in 1867? I'm more forgiving of older romances written in the days before you could look up historical details with a click of the mouse, but nowadays this kind ofEPIC FAIL sloppiness is inexcusable. Toss in the most long-winded boring epilogue ever and you get a book deserving of no stars. Not one.
Supposedly there are two more books planned in this series telling the stories of two other men at Lady Lavender's, but I'll be passing on that ride, Kindle freebie or no.
OK, so I know the whorehouse catering to the ladies is a bit of a stretch, but taxes were hell this year and I really needed some brain candy, but fluff or no, I still expect a somewhat realistic historical setting and you aren't going to get it here (more on this subject later). The language and mindset are much too modern, all our virginal heroine needed was a couple of heavy pettings and she knew exactly how to handle a man's you-know-what without any cribbing from Alex. No shy young Victorian Miss here. Speaking of language, be warned because the "F" bomb is dropped frequently, and "cock" is abused to death. I began wishing for Bertrice Small and her "manroot". Almost.
Then there are the typos. I believe this is self-published, but you still would think someone would look at the final product before putting it on the market, wouldn't you?
"lavacious"
I believe that should be lascivious.
"No taundry sexuall affair as most women would have admitted to him."
"Either groppping women..."
"Everything he held dare..."
Editor, wherefore art thou?
Now back to the historical setting. I understand that some readers want a sexed up wallpaper romance, and I'm not knocking your reading preferences, but I am not one of them. Towards the end of the book Alex and Grace are exploring a storage room at a museum filled with Russian artifacts.
"She glanced toward the case again. Royal artifacts, most likely. She stepped closer, focusing on the card in the case. “Czar Nicholas the Second,” she read."
Remember I said the story began in 1867? I'm more forgiving of older romances written in the days before you could look up historical details with a click of the mouse, but nowadays this kind of
Supposedly there are two more books planned in this series telling the stories of two other men at Lady Lavender's, but I'll be passing on that ride, Kindle freebie or no.
August 2, 2011
Special 99 cent Kindle, novel length, self pub'd by author for 18+.
Wow, what a great novel!!!
This story is about 3 friends (Alex, Gideon, James) that become employees of ‘Lady Lavender’ as male prostitutes. They have been with her for 10-15 years (since they were young lads 13 years old?) and although they are now older and want to escape, they can’t….She won’t let them…She treats them differently than the others (very odd)….She keeps them under constant guard and beats them if they don’t perform. She’s a first class evil bitch and I was hoping Alex would kill her when he had the chance…but damn…next book maybe?)
I don’t normally like a story where the Hero (Alex) is the victim and needs the help of Heroine (Grace) to save his soul…yet this story was so good and kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to know the secret that kept him working for the evil madam ‘Lady Lavender’.
Plus Grace is a perfect match for Alex. Even though she needs to marry the earl for money to save her family, she falls in love with Alex. She’s brainy, on the shelf, and struggles with her feelings of responsibility/reputation; yet her love for Alex and her need to help set him free wins out.
This book has lots of stuff going on…way more than I can begin to describe without spoiling it.
Can’t wait for James & Gideon’s stories!!!! I rate this book an A.
Wow, what a great novel!!!
This story is about 3 friends (Alex, Gideon, James) that become employees of ‘Lady Lavender’ as male prostitutes. They have been with her for 10-15 years (since they were young lads 13 years old?) and although they are now older and want to escape, they can’t….She won’t let them…She treats them differently than the others (very odd)….She keeps them under constant guard and beats them if they don’t perform. She’s a first class evil bitch and I was hoping Alex would kill her when he had the chance…but damn…next book maybe?)
I don’t normally like a story where the Hero (Alex) is the victim and needs the help of Heroine (Grace) to save his soul…yet this story was so good and kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to know the secret that kept him working for the evil madam ‘Lady Lavender’.
Plus Grace is a perfect match for Alex. Even though she needs to marry the earl for money to save her family, she falls in love with Alex. She’s brainy, on the shelf, and struggles with her feelings of responsibility/reputation; yet her love for Alex and her need to help set him free wins out.
This book has lots of stuff going on…way more than I can begin to describe without spoiling it.
Can’t wait for James & Gideon’s stories!!!! I rate this book an A.
March 4, 2015
4.5 stars
The book starts with the heroine visiting the brothel where the hero works as a male prostitute. Let me tell you, it was one hell of an opening scene and I laughed so hard reading it!
I loved this book. Really loved it. I was engaged to the characters emotions from the first page and couldn't put it down. That is not to say that it has no flaws; on the contrary. The way the heroine consorts with the hero in public without anyone noticing them is unbelievable to say the least and his tendency for melancholia and depression grated on my nerves more than once. But even with these problems, I loved the heroes and became completely drawn in their angst and passion. They had incredible chemistry and were oh, so right for each other. Grace was a strong, intelligent heroine and I really liked the fact that she came to care for Alex without treating the fact that he was a whore as non-existant. Alex was a bit too lamenting for my taste, but I guess his life gave him reason to be, so even if it made me angry at times I appreciated the reality factor in it.
I can't wait for Gideon's book to come out.
Highly recommended for fans of angsty romances and self-doubting, tormented heroes who don't believe they're good enough and strong heroines who can see their real worth.
The book starts with the heroine visiting the brothel where the hero works as a male prostitute. Let me tell you, it was one hell of an opening scene and I laughed so hard reading it!
I loved this book. Really loved it. I was engaged to the characters emotions from the first page and couldn't put it down. That is not to say that it has no flaws; on the contrary. The way the heroine consorts with the hero in public without anyone noticing them is unbelievable to say the least and his tendency for melancholia and depression grated on my nerves more than once. But even with these problems, I loved the heroes and became completely drawn in their angst and passion. They had incredible chemistry and were oh, so right for each other. Grace was a strong, intelligent heroine and I really liked the fact that she came to care for Alex without treating the fact that he was a whore as non-existant. Alex was a bit too lamenting for my taste, but I guess his life gave him reason to be, so even if it made me angry at times I appreciated the reality factor in it.
I can't wait for Gideon's book to come out.
Highly recommended for fans of angsty romances and self-doubting, tormented heroes who don't believe they're good enough and strong heroines who can see their real worth.
November 19, 2011
I loved this book. Couldn't put it down until I finished it -loved it. The hero is a prostitute and the context of the brothel is a bit bizarre. Mother's sending their virgin daughters there for a night with the hero before their wedding night. But I was able to suspend my disbelief and get into the grit of the story.
Essentially, the h's stepbrother wants her to marry an Earl because he's rich and the stepbrother has gambled away all of the h's mother's money. The h meets the H at the brothel. He wants to leave but is scared to because of the brothel madame's threat to harm his family. The book is the story of these characters freeing themselves from their environments, resolving family issues and finding an HEA together.
I found the brothel madame, Lady Lavender, most interesting. She's a villain - keeping the hero in the brothel against his wishes, and having him beaten when he goes against her wishes. And yet at the same time she has a past that gives her nuance and an (slightly slighty sympathetic) explanation for her motives.
Gender roles are played with throughout the book. The heroine is at the mercy of her gambling, drunkard step-brother. Lady Lavender controls her trio of male prostitutes as well as the big burly henchmen. The male prostitutes are subject to whatever abuse and whims their female clients desire. The H is no alpha and gets beaten up and abducted several times in the course of the story.
There is a HEA for the characters. I think the author was trying to be pragmatic when she wrote the HEA and I do wish the H's father was a bit warmer to the H, but I'm a sucker for big bow, 1812 overture HEAs.
Can't wait to read Gideon's book!!!
Essentially, the h's stepbrother wants her to marry an Earl because he's rich and the stepbrother has gambled away all of the h's mother's money. The h meets the H at the brothel. He wants to leave but is scared to because of the brothel madame's threat to harm his family. The book is the story of these characters freeing themselves from their environments, resolving family issues and finding an HEA together.
I found the brothel madame, Lady Lavender, most interesting. She's a villain - keeping the hero in the brothel against his wishes, and having him beaten when he goes against her wishes. And yet at the same time she has a past that gives her nuance and an (slightly slighty sympathetic) explanation for her motives.
Gender roles are played with throughout the book. The heroine is at the mercy of her gambling, drunkard step-brother. Lady Lavender controls her trio of male prostitutes as well as the big burly henchmen. The male prostitutes are subject to whatever abuse and whims their female clients desire. The H is no alpha and gets beaten up and abducted several times in the course of the story.
There is a HEA for the characters. I think the author was trying to be pragmatic when she wrote the HEA and I do wish the H's father was a bit warmer to the H, but I'm a sucker for big bow, 1812 overture HEAs.
Can't wait to read Gideon's book!!!
January 22, 2012
I liked the tropes (tortured hero, male prostitute, destitute heroine, seemingly impossible relationship up until the end) and the distinctive voice. I didn't like the typos, awkward sentences. Also, though the sexual attraction felt strong, the actual romance felt lacking (mostly told, not shown, and I chalked it up to infatuation more than true love). Though their ages were older, I had the feeling I was watching two horny teenagers try to take a stand against adults. I'll be on the fence about reading another from this author.
November 12, 2011
Really liked the writing but the hero is too Beta for my taste.
February 12, 2012
This is a book that I would normally love. The description hits all right right notes: guy trapped in brothel wants to be free, girl wants to net her an earl but needs some seduction lessons, the two meet=insta lust, craziness results. Sounds awesome! Role reversal books are some of my favorites and are unfortunately not very common.
Right off the bat I found the story doesn't exactly mesh with the description. Instead of the heroine winding up at the brothel to learn some hot lip skillz she actually winds up there on false pretenses. Our hero's like woowoo and she's like omg what the hell?!? ((Actually this part was pretty danged funny and if the book had carried on in this fashion I would have loved it.)) But the humor immediately dropped and our heroine and hero turn into sad sacks of depression. The doom and gloom gets poured on pretty thick, but that doesn't stop our couple from falling 100% in love after spending like a whole hour in each others company.
So enter the wastrel brother, his best friend "the earl", a pants wearing little sister and a sickly bedridden mother and everything goes to hell. Apparently the heroine's original plan was to get her an earl to swish a magic wand and make her life perfect cause her brother has gambled all the family's money away. ((note, I'd normally not post spoilers like this but really at this day and age are these really spoilers? it's the plot to literally thousands of romances so far, so it's not like a revelation or anything. For a romance novel it's practically a god given requirement) After meeting the hero though our girl has to decide between her heart or her family.
From the hero's point of view, the whole story is very tangled. He's being blackmailed into staying at the brothel, he's scared for himself and his family but at the same time really wants to be free. I actually liked the hero much more than the heroine. The whole "instantly in love" thing really disappointed me though so I trudged my way through to the "I'm a virgin & this is the best sex ever!" scene and I just gave up.
Can I say this book was horrible? No. Can I say it was good? No. Some people are going to really like it for a no brainer romance novel read. As for myself, I'm tired of reading no brainer romance novels. I could get on my high horse about spelling/grammar errors, modern phrases and historical inaccuracies but it's just not worth it. From what I can tell, this author is self published and it'd be just like beating a puppy. I would have loved to have rooted for the little guy and said yeah, here's an author that wrote a great book all on her own. But it just isn't a great book to me, so I'll leave it at that.
Right off the bat I found the story doesn't exactly mesh with the description. Instead of the heroine winding up at the brothel to learn some hot lip skillz she actually winds up there on false pretenses. Our hero's like woowoo and she's like omg what the hell?!? ((Actually this part was pretty danged funny and if the book had carried on in this fashion I would have loved it.)) But the humor immediately dropped and our heroine and hero turn into sad sacks of depression. The doom and gloom gets poured on pretty thick, but that doesn't stop our couple from falling 100% in love after spending like a whole hour in each others company.
So enter the wastrel brother, his best friend "the earl", a pants wearing little sister and a sickly bedridden mother and everything goes to hell. Apparently the heroine's original plan was to get her an earl to swish a magic wand and make her life perfect cause her brother has gambled all the family's money away. ((note, I'd normally not post spoilers like this but really at this day and age are these really spoilers? it's the plot to literally thousands of romances so far, so it's not like a revelation or anything. For a romance novel it's practically a god given requirement) After meeting the hero though our girl has to decide between her heart or her family.
From the hero's point of view, the whole story is very tangled. He's being blackmailed into staying at the brothel, he's scared for himself and his family but at the same time really wants to be free. I actually liked the hero much more than the heroine. The whole "instantly in love" thing really disappointed me though so I trudged my way through to the "I'm a virgin & this is the best sex ever!" scene and I just gave up.
Can I say this book was horrible? No. Can I say it was good? No. Some people are going to really like it for a no brainer romance novel read. As for myself, I'm tired of reading no brainer romance novels. I could get on my high horse about spelling/grammar errors, modern phrases and historical inaccuracies but it's just not worth it. From what I can tell, this author is self published and it'd be just like beating a puppy. I would have loved to have rooted for the little guy and said yeah, here's an author that wrote a great book all on her own. But it just isn't a great book to me, so I'll leave it at that.
January 1, 2012
After reading another book about a male prostitute, I find myself intrigued with the storyline now.
I already had this on my Kindle so as soon as I finished the previous book I started this one.
This author was also a first for me. I hadnt really heard of her before but am always up for trying new authors.
And I have to say this author is very good.
I was drawn into the story from the start. I really felt for Alex and his plight and knew straight from the start there was more to the story than even he realised.
Grace, well I absolutely loved her. So gutsy and smart and not like the usual heroine in these stories. She didnt give a fudge for society and when she realised she loved Alex she fought for him all the way, even when he pushed her away.
There were times though when Alex drove me mad as character. I really wanted him to man up a couple of times. I dont mean to say he was weak and wimpy because he definately wasnt. But he got himself bogged down with feeling guilty and not being worthy of love that it got a bit annoying.
In some ways this really wasnt your typical HR. Because you didnt really see the posh part of British Society then, a lot of it was in Lady Lavender's house of men (being polite here). And boy was Lady Lavender an evil cow. Mad as a hatter really. Her reasoning behind having the 3 men and forcing them to be prostitutes was mad and I think she had truly lost it. But I definately don't think thats the last we have seen of her.
I am fairly certain this is going to be a trilogy of books, this being the first one. But there are another 2 characters, Gideon and James and even though their stories dont seem to be out yet, I shall most definately be reading them.
I already had this on my Kindle so as soon as I finished the previous book I started this one.
This author was also a first for me. I hadnt really heard of her before but am always up for trying new authors.
And I have to say this author is very good.
I was drawn into the story from the start. I really felt for Alex and his plight and knew straight from the start there was more to the story than even he realised.
Grace, well I absolutely loved her. So gutsy and smart and not like the usual heroine in these stories. She didnt give a fudge for society and when she realised she loved Alex she fought for him all the way, even when he pushed her away.
There were times though when Alex drove me mad as character. I really wanted him to man up a couple of times. I dont mean to say he was weak and wimpy because he definately wasnt. But he got himself bogged down with feeling guilty and not being worthy of love that it got a bit annoying.
In some ways this really wasnt your typical HR. Because you didnt really see the posh part of British Society then, a lot of it was in Lady Lavender's house of men (being polite here). And boy was Lady Lavender an evil cow. Mad as a hatter really. Her reasoning behind having the 3 men and forcing them to be prostitutes was mad and I think she had truly lost it. But I definately don't think thats the last we have seen of her.
I am fairly certain this is going to be a trilogy of books, this being the first one. But there are another 2 characters, Gideon and James and even though their stories dont seem to be out yet, I shall most definately be reading them.
January 12, 2012
I picked up this book, because I usually enjoy stories featuring different types of heroes and in this novel, the hero Alex is a prostitute. Unfortunately, Alex is filled with such loathing for himself and his profession that at times it made the story unenjoyable and made me wonder how he could function. At times his responses and actions seemed rather young and his treatment of the heroine so bitter, it made me like the story a lot less. I can see a naive guy acting this way, but if he hates his job and being an h00ker so much, he should plan and execute his escape. I know Lady Lavender held these guys captive, but she also takes them out around town. It seems like he had ample opportunities to leave if he wanted to.
When half the novel had passed and Alex is still stuck in Lavender's clutches I just grew impatient. I can deal with heroes and heroines being held captive. But if they can't and don't rescue themselves after half a book filled with wangst and rage at their situation, then I lose interest. Such was the case with To Seduce an Earl.
I can't say the story felt romantic either. Alex fell for the heroine, but really I didn't see a lot of great chemistry there. She seems an awkward ineffectual 'John' with Alex playing the bitter abused prostitute and Lavender the evil scheming Madame.
I guess if I were writing it, I'd tone Alex outrage down, and make Lavender less of a villain, or perhaps write it after Alex had time to recover from his wangst and trauma at his situation. Alex's emotions are just so resentful and raw, I didn't feel he had recovered sufficiently or liked himself enough to begin a relationship with anyone, let alone marry or be a partner to anyone. Perhaps after he had time to heal, this would be more believable to me.
When half the novel had passed and Alex is still stuck in Lavender's clutches I just grew impatient. I can deal with heroes and heroines being held captive. But if they can't and don't rescue themselves after half a book filled with wangst and rage at their situation, then I lose interest. Such was the case with To Seduce an Earl.
I can't say the story felt romantic either. Alex fell for the heroine, but really I didn't see a lot of great chemistry there. She seems an awkward ineffectual 'John' with Alex playing the bitter abused prostitute and Lavender the evil scheming Madame.
I guess if I were writing it, I'd tone Alex outrage down, and make Lavender less of a villain, or perhaps write it after Alex had time to recover from his wangst and trauma at his situation. Alex's emotions are just so resentful and raw, I didn't feel he had recovered sufficiently or liked himself enough to begin a relationship with anyone, let alone marry or be a partner to anyone. Perhaps after he had time to heal, this would be more believable to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. I liked that it was the hero who was a prostitute instead of the heroine. I've only read this in one other historical, and quite enjoy the theme. The chemistry between Alex and Grace was sweet, and their first meeting had me laughing out loud over a very comical misunderstanding.
Some of the reviews, people were complaining that they didn't understand why Alex didn't just leave Lady Lavender's brothel if he hated being there so much. But to me, it made sense. She took him when he was 13 and brainwashed and threatened him. This happens in real life all the time, and I can see how even as an adult, Alex would feel trapped in Lady Lavender's clutches.
At times I felt Alex was hot and cold, although I did sympathize with him as a character. Although I will say halfway through the book I got pretty tired of his low self-confidence and self-derision. I got tired of reading the line '....but he was nothing but a whore...'. It just felt a bit over done.
Aside from those things, the story was great! Lady Lavender was the perfect villian: cold and beautiful. In the end, when you find out why she is the way she is, you almost feel sorry for her. I have a feeling we'll be learning even more about her in the next book in the series.
The ending was soul satisfying and even had a few twists thrown in. I am looking forward to the second book in the Seduction series!
Some of the reviews, people were complaining that they didn't understand why Alex didn't just leave Lady Lavender's brothel if he hated being there so much. But to me, it made sense. She took him when he was 13 and brainwashed and threatened him. This happens in real life all the time, and I can see how even as an adult, Alex would feel trapped in Lady Lavender's clutches.
At times I felt Alex was hot and cold, although I did sympathize with him as a character. Although I will say halfway through the book I got pretty tired of his low self-confidence and self-derision. I got tired of reading the line '....but he was nothing but a whore...'. It just felt a bit over done.
Aside from those things, the story was great! Lady Lavender was the perfect villian: cold and beautiful. In the end, when you find out why she is the way she is, you almost feel sorry for her. I have a feeling we'll be learning even more about her in the next book in the series.
The ending was soul satisfying and even had a few twists thrown in. I am looking forward to the second book in the Seduction series!
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November 21, 2013
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...
I have been meaning to read Lori Brighton’s Seduction series for sometimes now. This year, when I found book 3 is coming soon, I thought it’s the perfect opportunity to finish the series back to back because I love gigolo heroes a lot! In book 1, To Seduce an Earl, there were some lovely moments, and I did enjoy them, however there were also just too many frustrating moments I had to spend with Alex. And I couldn’t even blame him for that. Why? Let’s just get into the review...
Lavender Hills, where the story is mostly centered in the late 1860s, is a brothel that caters only to women’s pleasure. Trained, impeccably beautiful male are waiting for them to present them with their ultimate fantasies, a relief from boring married life or show them passion when their husbands fail. All these for a hefty price. The property is private, just on the outskirt of London, in the middle of a vast lavender field. The Madame of the brothel, a beautiful French woman with cold lavender eyes (who also loves everything in the color of lavender), Ophelia, wields a very strict management where her business is concerned. She has her own bodyguards, two lumbering males who would do anything for her if she so much even moves a finger. The place runs smoothly, almost, and Ophelia probably has more power in her hands (and means to blackmail, causing a scandal) than any other individual in London.
Ophelia brought in 3 boys some 10/12 years ago. They came from different backgrounds, all beautiful and in their early teens. The boys didn’t even begin to realize what she had in store for them, or why exactly they were brought in together. They needed food and shelter, which Ophelia was only happy to provide... in exchange of their bodies. They were groomed, and later, when grown up, trained to pleasure women. These 3 men are her most treasured male escorts, most sought after too. Seduced series will tell you their stories and unravel the secrets of what happened to them and how fate and a vengeful woman brought them together.
Alex has been working on Lavender Hills for the past 10 or so years. But he’s tired of this life and the fact that he always receives the virgins, more often than not, to relieve them off their virginity and train them to pleasure their future husbands. Some even become regular clients afterwards. It’s not very difficult since he’s beautiful with dark hair and blue eyes, and does his job rather well. So far, he thought he’s content but for a couple of years, Alex has been thinking about the ‘why’s of his situation. Lately, it’s been about all three of them; him, Gideon and James. Gideon, the more rebellious one, has planted the seed of doubt in his mind and now, Alex is also looking for a way out of this life, even if he knows he can’t never really have a ‘normal’ life or the fact that Ophelia will never let them go as she deems them her property.
At first, Alex thought he was helping out his family. His father, a Russian and mother, an English woman, with the country in turmoil, his family had to hide in England. Alex’s father didn’t seem like a nice guy, rather a dictator in his own home. When he couldn’t provide for Alex, his mother and his siblings, a 14 yrs. old Alex naturally was looking for a way to provide. One day, he was approached by this beautiful, if older, woman who lured him in, promising a world of pleasure and luxurious living, with an earning that would no doubt give his family a comfortable living. Alex didn’t know what was waiting for him, until it was too late. He was groomed and trained by Ophelia herself (a fact that bothered me). He’s been a prized stud ever since and has done anything and everything that she asked for to pleasure his clients. But now... now things are changing and Alex just doesn’t want this anymore. But first, he has to find a way.
The way, of sort, comes in the form of Grace, a relatively naïve and poor girl who doesn’t have a lot in life. A prank played by her step-brother brings her to Lavender Hills. I was a bit surprised that Grace didn’t know it was a brothel because Grace was rather smart. After her father died, leaving her, her mother and Patience, her younger sister, Grace has been trying to make do with whatever of the money was left. Then her mother married a Lord, and now John, the elder step-brother, is wasting away whatever was left; money that is not even his or his father’s but what her mother brought into the marriage. And he’s wasting those gambling and whoring because… he’s a male and the ‘heir’. And because he can! OMG, I was mad, so mad at the jerk. Then he sends Grace to this brothel so that she can be ‘trained’ to satisfy this Earl, a friend of his, Rodrick, whom Grace knows as a nice man; someone she’s already planning to marry. The money for this ‘session’ was provided by the said man. Grace has always known him a friend, a well-wisher of the family. But she should’ve known better; that a man who is friends with her step-brother is probably the same kinda scumbag.
Grace has many, many things on her mind right now. An ailing, possibly dying mother who is not receiving the treatment she should, a teenager sister who deserves a coming out, but she probably won’t... all because her worthless sh!t of a step-brother. Now they’re probably eye-balls up in debt, may even end up on the streets. And she had no idea why John would even send her there in the first place. Though she’s still now aware of the truth, Grace is struck speechless to meet this absolutely gorgeous creature whose saying he has no idea of the ‘letters’ she’s asking about! Letters that might (or might not) contain the information of a buried treasure that might help her improve her condition. Grace being a connoisseur of all things antique, John thought it’s what will drive her there than anything else. But IMO, this hobby of hers remains largely unexplored, so I couldn’t really see Grace as someone going after treasures and all that.
Meeting Alex makes her realize quite a few things; this is THE infamous Lavender Hills, she’s going to kill her step-brother and Alex is simply delish. And it’s simple he wants to pleasure her. But Grace doesn’t have the time, even though she’s sorely tempted to give into this, so she runs, planning to give a ‘what-for’ to John. Even though her suspicion is confirmed, Grace sees the reason in learning to pleasure because... well, she wanted to impress Rodrick and marry him for the sake of her family. She kept convincing herself that she wants him too, loves him even. Grace even goes back to Alex, this time very adamant to learn how to pleasure a man, spending what little she had for one session with him. But instead what she learns is that her heart going all jumpy, while her body going soft whenever she nears him. An irrational response and Grace is ever the practical girl, if not anything else. Yet, she can’t escape her wayward thoughts on Alex’s sad, yet gorgeous blue eyes, his kisses and his touch.
The attraction between them was palpable since the scene of their first meeting. The kisses and fondlings were bound to follow. She even learns a few things from him about his past and how he was blackmailed into this profession. Grace now can only think that she wants to save this man, and maybe show him the way to a better life. If possible. But is it? It didn’t help matters that Alex was more than interested in her. His longing for Grace ran deeper each time they met. It took him a while to understand this, but there it was, shimmering underneath, then going insane whenever Grace was near. Whenever he’d meet her somewhere; be it accidentally or a planned one. There were plenty of those, Grace trying to tell or show Alex that he needs to break away from that place but Alex… *sigh* he didn’t think he can live a ‘normal’ life anymore. So much so, he couldn’t believe in Grace’s invitations. Oh he was so so tempted, and yet he knew Lady Lavender will find him no matter where he is and the repercussion would be to be beaten to bloody pulp by her two behemoth-like minions. That b!tch was forever manipulating him into forgetting that he’s a human being, and not a plaything.
There was no sex for a long, loooong time in the story, yet plenty of frustrating fondlings that went nowhere because after he realized his true feelings, Alex didn’t want to take Grace’s virginity. Those were sexy but not enough for me. I was already very frustrated with Alex and his tendency of giving up just-like-that whenever a doubt aroused somewhere. Even Grace began to feeling frustrated, both physically and emotionally, both for sex and the fact that she wanted him like no other. How could I even blame her for that? She was still determined on having her Earl, but in her mind, she knew if she could have Alex, she would without any hesitation. But marrying a whore? This is just not done!
This brings me to the next point. I hated this overuse of the word ‘whore’ everywhere; general narrative, Alex’s own thought... even Grace’s thoughts for crying out loud! Like I needed to be reminded of Alex’s profession over and over and over again! It was unappealing to say the least, the repetition. And it hurt to read Alex’s thoughts on his ‘lower than a scum station’ in life, that he doesn’t deserve a better life, let alone with someone as pure and good as Grace. He’d let this and the thought of Ophelia finding him mess with his head. I couldn’t really blame him, and yet, it was making me very unhappy.
At one point, he even tries to escape but returns (for the same reason) and is beaten. Grace, on the other hand, becomes so worried knowing what she now knows of Ophelia’s possessive, vindictive nature, finds another way to meet him. Even though she’s not permitted even to enter the establishment, she does so with Gideon’s help. This is where we meet Gideon, who’s known for his insensitive, stubborn, arrogant and selfish nature. But to me, this cast him in a different light. Gideon was already trying to convince both Alex and James that they were brought in together for some ulterior motives and should make plans for escape. James, ever the loyal puppy of Ophelia, wasn’t very happy with this but Alex, by now, was very convinced that something is wrong. And, maybe Grace is his last chance at a normal life. Gideon obviously understood what’s going on between the two and helps Grace into Alex’s room, where he was injured and feverish, no one really bothering to take care of him.
When she discovered Alex in such a state, Grace is horrified. Her only mission in life, now, is to help Alex escape. Yes she has many responsibilities but now her heart is also involved. She cares for this sad, yet beautiful creature with all she has to offer. Though she’s yet to find a proper solution, Grace returns home, only to find another nasty surprise waiting for her; this time from Rodrick the a$$hole. Apparently her gutless step-brother has taken a lot of money from Rodrick, making Grace a lure. Oh no, there’ll be no marriage. How can an Earl marry some nobody like Grace?! Rodrick wants her as his mistress and he makes some dirty propositions, which Grace vehemently rejects. She’s shocked to say the least. Either way, her mind has been only centered on helping Alex. Yet, now, alongside Ophelia, she has another threat to consider.
Later, Alex escapes with Gideon’s help... Grace talks to him, telling him that he needs to check on his family and open up to them. I thought it was very nice of Grace, if only she knew what’s coming next. That scene with Alex’s family was very depressing. Though Alex’s mother is happy to see him, his father is angry as hell. And he asks Alex never to show his face again when Alex tells him what he’s been doing for the past 10 yrs. Alex did it all thinking he’s helping his family, only to find his money was not needed, as his family is thriving pretty well. He was manipulated and used, his money was never sent. His family thought him dead, very much moving on with their lives and his younger brother, whom we meet very briefly at a ball, doesn’t even know he exists. His father now is more interested in keeping the family’s good name alive, rather than welcoming his son with open arms. After all, he has to consider Dimitri’s future! All of Alex’s sacrifices were for nothing. His realization broke my heart, and the condemnation for something he hasn’t even done willingly... It was terrible even to imagine.
Grace was mad on his behalf and they leave knowing no help would be coming from that area. Alex takes care of the Rodrick problem because he was suspicious of John, Grace confirms that too. After that, he decides on a plan. Alex remembers a patch of land in Devon bestowed by his maternal side of the family. It has always been his. He remembers loving this place when he was young and decides to move there with Grace. If only she agrees to come with him. Alex was almost convinced she won’t, even when he was waiting at the train station with tickets. But Grace would go with him anywhere, and now that Patience has assured her that she can take care of their mother, Grace leaves with her meager things. They had more challenges ahead, the big and bad one yet, Ophelia because Alex knew very well that she’d find him. And soon.
The place in Devon puts Alex down (again) because, by now, it was a run-down place that no one took care of for a long time. He got insecure, that Grace won’t stay with him. Grace becomes frustrated that he’d even think this way, again! (see what I mean?) But she turns the event by seducing Alex herself. It was way too much and she wanted him. End of story. Lol But, when Ophelia finally finds them together and manipulates Alex again, first by words and then, with threats on Grace’s life, Alex, again, gives into that, deciding to leave with her, leaving Grace all alone in this small village. Oh, I was just............... can’t explain. I would’ve loved to see him give a little fight at least. *sigh*
The most intense emotion was wrenched out of Alex when Ophelia orders her man to shoot Grace anyway (it was predictable that she’d never let her go), leaving him stunned speechless. Though Grace is hurt, it wasn’t fatal but it did shake Alex from his stupor and made him realize just what and who he was going to leave... again. Grace is now the ray of light in his world and Alex can’t very well, ever, live without her again.
At that point, they’re also waylaid by Alex’s father, who finally came to his senses, even if a small bit and asks Ophelia to leave his son alone. Then we learn of what happened to Ophelia and why she planned this downfall of these three boys, turning them into prostitutes. She was raped by a man of the nobility. Turns out, Alex’s father was that man’s friend and helped him cover up his crime. Only when Alex’s father threatens her instead with exposing her real identity to the greater world, is when Ophelia gives up her madness. At least where Alex was concerned. But Alex and Grace could see that this woman is pretty much beyond anybody’s help with her need for vengeance. Nothing could ever make her veer away from that path, but she leaves Alex in peace at last.
I adored the epilogue. It was quite longer for an epilogue because the loose ends were obviously being tied in it, but I loved it nonetheless. The treasure Alex and Grace so briefly talked about and thought could help them to survive if they can find it, was also found. But by then it’s been some years and they didn’t need it anymore. I thought that part was kinda unnecessary because I didn’t take the treasure part seriously anyway. Either way, the epilogue only made me eager for the next book to find out how Gideon makes his escape from Ophelia’s clutches. 3.75 stars.
I have been meaning to read Lori Brighton’s Seduction series for sometimes now. This year, when I found book 3 is coming soon, I thought it’s the perfect opportunity to finish the series back to back because I love gigolo heroes a lot! In book 1, To Seduce an Earl, there were some lovely moments, and I did enjoy them, however there were also just too many frustrating moments I had to spend with Alex. And I couldn’t even blame him for that. Why? Let’s just get into the review...
Lavender Hills, where the story is mostly centered in the late 1860s, is a brothel that caters only to women’s pleasure. Trained, impeccably beautiful male are waiting for them to present them with their ultimate fantasies, a relief from boring married life or show them passion when their husbands fail. All these for a hefty price. The property is private, just on the outskirt of London, in the middle of a vast lavender field. The Madame of the brothel, a beautiful French woman with cold lavender eyes (who also loves everything in the color of lavender), Ophelia, wields a very strict management where her business is concerned. She has her own bodyguards, two lumbering males who would do anything for her if she so much even moves a finger. The place runs smoothly, almost, and Ophelia probably has more power in her hands (and means to blackmail, causing a scandal) than any other individual in London.
Ophelia brought in 3 boys some 10/12 years ago. They came from different backgrounds, all beautiful and in their early teens. The boys didn’t even begin to realize what she had in store for them, or why exactly they were brought in together. They needed food and shelter, which Ophelia was only happy to provide... in exchange of their bodies. They were groomed, and later, when grown up, trained to pleasure women. These 3 men are her most treasured male escorts, most sought after too. Seduced series will tell you their stories and unravel the secrets of what happened to them and how fate and a vengeful woman brought them together.
Alex has been working on Lavender Hills for the past 10 or so years. But he’s tired of this life and the fact that he always receives the virgins, more often than not, to relieve them off their virginity and train them to pleasure their future husbands. Some even become regular clients afterwards. It’s not very difficult since he’s beautiful with dark hair and blue eyes, and does his job rather well. So far, he thought he’s content but for a couple of years, Alex has been thinking about the ‘why’s of his situation. Lately, it’s been about all three of them; him, Gideon and James. Gideon, the more rebellious one, has planted the seed of doubt in his mind and now, Alex is also looking for a way out of this life, even if he knows he can’t never really have a ‘normal’ life or the fact that Ophelia will never let them go as she deems them her property.
At first, Alex thought he was helping out his family. His father, a Russian and mother, an English woman, with the country in turmoil, his family had to hide in England. Alex’s father didn’t seem like a nice guy, rather a dictator in his own home. When he couldn’t provide for Alex, his mother and his siblings, a 14 yrs. old Alex naturally was looking for a way to provide. One day, he was approached by this beautiful, if older, woman who lured him in, promising a world of pleasure and luxurious living, with an earning that would no doubt give his family a comfortable living. Alex didn’t know what was waiting for him, until it was too late. He was groomed and trained by Ophelia herself (a fact that bothered me). He’s been a prized stud ever since and has done anything and everything that she asked for to pleasure his clients. But now... now things are changing and Alex just doesn’t want this anymore. But first, he has to find a way.
The way, of sort, comes in the form of Grace, a relatively naïve and poor girl who doesn’t have a lot in life. A prank played by her step-brother brings her to Lavender Hills. I was a bit surprised that Grace didn’t know it was a brothel because Grace was rather smart. After her father died, leaving her, her mother and Patience, her younger sister, Grace has been trying to make do with whatever of the money was left. Then her mother married a Lord, and now John, the elder step-brother, is wasting away whatever was left; money that is not even his or his father’s but what her mother brought into the marriage. And he’s wasting those gambling and whoring because… he’s a male and the ‘heir’. And because he can! OMG, I was mad, so mad at the jerk. Then he sends Grace to this brothel so that she can be ‘trained’ to satisfy this Earl, a friend of his, Rodrick, whom Grace knows as a nice man; someone she’s already planning to marry. The money for this ‘session’ was provided by the said man. Grace has always known him a friend, a well-wisher of the family. But she should’ve known better; that a man who is friends with her step-brother is probably the same kinda scumbag.
Grace has many, many things on her mind right now. An ailing, possibly dying mother who is not receiving the treatment she should, a teenager sister who deserves a coming out, but she probably won’t... all because her worthless sh!t of a step-brother. Now they’re probably eye-balls up in debt, may even end up on the streets. And she had no idea why John would even send her there in the first place. Though she’s still now aware of the truth, Grace is struck speechless to meet this absolutely gorgeous creature whose saying he has no idea of the ‘letters’ she’s asking about! Letters that might (or might not) contain the information of a buried treasure that might help her improve her condition. Grace being a connoisseur of all things antique, John thought it’s what will drive her there than anything else. But IMO, this hobby of hers remains largely unexplored, so I couldn’t really see Grace as someone going after treasures and all that.
Meeting Alex makes her realize quite a few things; this is THE infamous Lavender Hills, she’s going to kill her step-brother and Alex is simply delish. And it’s simple he wants to pleasure her. But Grace doesn’t have the time, even though she’s sorely tempted to give into this, so she runs, planning to give a ‘what-for’ to John. Even though her suspicion is confirmed, Grace sees the reason in learning to pleasure because... well, she wanted to impress Rodrick and marry him for the sake of her family. She kept convincing herself that she wants him too, loves him even. Grace even goes back to Alex, this time very adamant to learn how to pleasure a man, spending what little she had for one session with him. But instead what she learns is that her heart going all jumpy, while her body going soft whenever she nears him. An irrational response and Grace is ever the practical girl, if not anything else. Yet, she can’t escape her wayward thoughts on Alex’s sad, yet gorgeous blue eyes, his kisses and his touch.
The attraction between them was palpable since the scene of their first meeting. The kisses and fondlings were bound to follow. She even learns a few things from him about his past and how he was blackmailed into this profession. Grace now can only think that she wants to save this man, and maybe show him the way to a better life. If possible. But is it? It didn’t help matters that Alex was more than interested in her. His longing for Grace ran deeper each time they met. It took him a while to understand this, but there it was, shimmering underneath, then going insane whenever Grace was near. Whenever he’d meet her somewhere; be it accidentally or a planned one. There were plenty of those, Grace trying to tell or show Alex that he needs to break away from that place but Alex… *sigh* he didn’t think he can live a ‘normal’ life anymore. So much so, he couldn’t believe in Grace’s invitations. Oh he was so so tempted, and yet he knew Lady Lavender will find him no matter where he is and the repercussion would be to be beaten to bloody pulp by her two behemoth-like minions. That b!tch was forever manipulating him into forgetting that he’s a human being, and not a plaything.
There was no sex for a long, loooong time in the story, yet plenty of frustrating fondlings that went nowhere because after he realized his true feelings, Alex didn’t want to take Grace’s virginity. Those were sexy but not enough for me. I was already very frustrated with Alex and his tendency of giving up just-like-that whenever a doubt aroused somewhere. Even Grace began to feeling frustrated, both physically and emotionally, both for sex and the fact that she wanted him like no other. How could I even blame her for that? She was still determined on having her Earl, but in her mind, she knew if she could have Alex, she would without any hesitation. But marrying a whore? This is just not done!
This brings me to the next point. I hated this overuse of the word ‘whore’ everywhere; general narrative, Alex’s own thought... even Grace’s thoughts for crying out loud! Like I needed to be reminded of Alex’s profession over and over and over again! It was unappealing to say the least, the repetition. And it hurt to read Alex’s thoughts on his ‘lower than a scum station’ in life, that he doesn’t deserve a better life, let alone with someone as pure and good as Grace. He’d let this and the thought of Ophelia finding him mess with his head. I couldn’t really blame him, and yet, it was making me very unhappy.
At one point, he even tries to escape but returns (for the same reason) and is beaten. Grace, on the other hand, becomes so worried knowing what she now knows of Ophelia’s possessive, vindictive nature, finds another way to meet him. Even though she’s not permitted even to enter the establishment, she does so with Gideon’s help. This is where we meet Gideon, who’s known for his insensitive, stubborn, arrogant and selfish nature. But to me, this cast him in a different light. Gideon was already trying to convince both Alex and James that they were brought in together for some ulterior motives and should make plans for escape. James, ever the loyal puppy of Ophelia, wasn’t very happy with this but Alex, by now, was very convinced that something is wrong. And, maybe Grace is his last chance at a normal life. Gideon obviously understood what’s going on between the two and helps Grace into Alex’s room, where he was injured and feverish, no one really bothering to take care of him.
When she discovered Alex in such a state, Grace is horrified. Her only mission in life, now, is to help Alex escape. Yes she has many responsibilities but now her heart is also involved. She cares for this sad, yet beautiful creature with all she has to offer. Though she’s yet to find a proper solution, Grace returns home, only to find another nasty surprise waiting for her; this time from Rodrick the a$$hole. Apparently her gutless step-brother has taken a lot of money from Rodrick, making Grace a lure. Oh no, there’ll be no marriage. How can an Earl marry some nobody like Grace?! Rodrick wants her as his mistress and he makes some dirty propositions, which Grace vehemently rejects. She’s shocked to say the least. Either way, her mind has been only centered on helping Alex. Yet, now, alongside Ophelia, she has another threat to consider.
Later, Alex escapes with Gideon’s help... Grace talks to him, telling him that he needs to check on his family and open up to them. I thought it was very nice of Grace, if only she knew what’s coming next. That scene with Alex’s family was very depressing. Though Alex’s mother is happy to see him, his father is angry as hell. And he asks Alex never to show his face again when Alex tells him what he’s been doing for the past 10 yrs. Alex did it all thinking he’s helping his family, only to find his money was not needed, as his family is thriving pretty well. He was manipulated and used, his money was never sent. His family thought him dead, very much moving on with their lives and his younger brother, whom we meet very briefly at a ball, doesn’t even know he exists. His father now is more interested in keeping the family’s good name alive, rather than welcoming his son with open arms. After all, he has to consider Dimitri’s future! All of Alex’s sacrifices were for nothing. His realization broke my heart, and the condemnation for something he hasn’t even done willingly... It was terrible even to imagine.
Grace was mad on his behalf and they leave knowing no help would be coming from that area. Alex takes care of the Rodrick problem because he was suspicious of John, Grace confirms that too. After that, he decides on a plan. Alex remembers a patch of land in Devon bestowed by his maternal side of the family. It has always been his. He remembers loving this place when he was young and decides to move there with Grace. If only she agrees to come with him. Alex was almost convinced she won’t, even when he was waiting at the train station with tickets. But Grace would go with him anywhere, and now that Patience has assured her that she can take care of their mother, Grace leaves with her meager things. They had more challenges ahead, the big and bad one yet, Ophelia because Alex knew very well that she’d find him. And soon.
The place in Devon puts Alex down (again) because, by now, it was a run-down place that no one took care of for a long time. He got insecure, that Grace won’t stay with him. Grace becomes frustrated that he’d even think this way, again! (see what I mean?) But she turns the event by seducing Alex herself. It was way too much and she wanted him. End of story. Lol But, when Ophelia finally finds them together and manipulates Alex again, first by words and then, with threats on Grace’s life, Alex, again, gives into that, deciding to leave with her, leaving Grace all alone in this small village. Oh, I was just............... can’t explain. I would’ve loved to see him give a little fight at least. *sigh*
The most intense emotion was wrenched out of Alex when Ophelia orders her man to shoot Grace anyway (it was predictable that she’d never let her go), leaving him stunned speechless. Though Grace is hurt, it wasn’t fatal but it did shake Alex from his stupor and made him realize just what and who he was going to leave... again. Grace is now the ray of light in his world and Alex can’t very well, ever, live without her again.
At that point, they’re also waylaid by Alex’s father, who finally came to his senses, even if a small bit and asks Ophelia to leave his son alone. Then we learn of what happened to Ophelia and why she planned this downfall of these three boys, turning them into prostitutes. She was raped by a man of the nobility. Turns out, Alex’s father was that man’s friend and helped him cover up his crime. Only when Alex’s father threatens her instead with exposing her real identity to the greater world, is when Ophelia gives up her madness. At least where Alex was concerned. But Alex and Grace could see that this woman is pretty much beyond anybody’s help with her need for vengeance. Nothing could ever make her veer away from that path, but she leaves Alex in peace at last.
I adored the epilogue. It was quite longer for an epilogue because the loose ends were obviously being tied in it, but I loved it nonetheless. The treasure Alex and Grace so briefly talked about and thought could help them to survive if they can find it, was also found. But by then it’s been some years and they didn’t need it anymore. I thought that part was kinda unnecessary because I didn’t take the treasure part seriously anyway. Either way, the epilogue only made me eager for the next book to find out how Gideon makes his escape from Ophelia’s clutches. 3.75 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2011
Not long ago I read my first book about a nice whore, this time it was about a male whore. But him I just felt so sorry for.
Alex has been a male prostitute for years. He did it to save family, something I can admire. And later on he stays to save his family. I get it, if it came out that their son was a whore then the scandal would rock the ton. Not to mention all the people he would recognize. He is lost, he his bored, and I did feel so sorry for him. At first it may have been fun, a 16 year old boy and all the women he could get, but now, not so much.
Our heroine does not seek him out, but later on well yes she needs to seduce an earl so she can marry him and save her family. And he seems to like experienced women. Oh, Grace, her guy has something over him, and she is so blind. Well not for long as she will fall for Alex. Now if this is not a match that is doomed then I do not know. A lady of the realm and a male prostitute. I was pretty unsure how Lori would pull it off, because there were so many things that I could not have seen happening. But she found a way and I was very happy with the way the book ended. A great big HEA too.
What I was a bit unsure of was the whole oh I am Russian and we had to hide and stuff plot. I just did not see why they would be shunned, but hey it was needed for the plot so he would become a whore.
I think the end was the best part, not because it was a HEA and all that, but because it felt like the best conclusion that could be. Real too.
Alex has been a male prostitute for years. He did it to save family, something I can admire. And later on he stays to save his family. I get it, if it came out that their son was a whore then the scandal would rock the ton. Not to mention all the people he would recognize. He is lost, he his bored, and I did feel so sorry for him. At first it may have been fun, a 16 year old boy and all the women he could get, but now, not so much.
Our heroine does not seek him out, but later on well yes she needs to seduce an earl so she can marry him and save her family. And he seems to like experienced women. Oh, Grace, her guy has something over him, and she is so blind. Well not for long as she will fall for Alex. Now if this is not a match that is doomed then I do not know. A lady of the realm and a male prostitute. I was pretty unsure how Lori would pull it off, because there were so many things that I could not have seen happening. But she found a way and I was very happy with the way the book ended. A great big HEA too.
What I was a bit unsure of was the whole oh I am Russian and we had to hide and stuff plot. I just did not see why they would be shunned, but hey it was needed for the plot so he would become a whore.
I think the end was the best part, not because it was a HEA and all that, but because it felt like the best conclusion that could be. Real too.
February 17, 2013
I was looking for something light & frothy & this fit the bill. I'd call it fairytale fluff. Super angsty but pays off in the end. In order to get the man (& security) she's been pining for, Grace needs to acquire some experience so after what begins as a humorous initial meeting, she forges ahead with Alex, our hero/brothel attendant. I liked the set up of the story & found it a fun read. It's not a new trope but it was well done & I liked Grace & Alex so much that it kept me reading. Earl Roderick was not as deeply drawn a character to ever rival Alex for me, so I mostly ignored him. Lady Lavender is a piece of work & I didn't like her from the start. Also, I wanted Alex to find his way out of this terrible situation he found himself in & for his family to be understanding. Grace's brother, John, I wanted to be left to absolutely nothing & sequestered in Debtor's Prison for his complete disregard for his family & entitled nature. There was, of course, a satisfying ending & good set up for the next in the series and I'm interested enough in Gideon (though more in James).
February 28, 2014
I loved this book. It was totally different than the usual historical romance and I adored Alex.
5 STARS !
Can't wait to read the other two books in the series and everything else Ms Brighton has written...
To the people that commented on a couple of historical errors - I say, so what, I read a fictional romance novel to be entertained, not educated !
5 STARS !
Can't wait to read the other two books in the series and everything else Ms Brighton has written...
To the people that commented on a couple of historical errors - I say, so what, I read a fictional romance novel to be entertained, not educated !
November 5, 2013
While book hunting, there have been occasions where I came across a theme or a character, or even a small scene-a quote perhaps- that tugged at something inside me, I don't know what. I got obsessed with whatever that got my attention and I could never concentrate on anything else unless I read that one book or books in particular. Seduction series by Lori Brighton can definitely be counted as such an occasion. I got my hands on the last book of this series-oh the play of fate!- and upon reading the first chapter of book three, I decided to go way back and read the whole thing from the beginning. Why? Because when the series is about three male prostitutes who work for a woman nicknamed Lady Lavender, what is a gal to do? Especially when she discovers that not only each book has a story of its own, but there might also be a bigger, more general plot that revolves around these three men? Naturally I got curious and, risking being quite antisocial for the next couple of days, got my hands on a copy of the first two books.
This book is the introduction of this new world, and tells the story of Alex, the more gentlemanly member of the trio who works at Lady Lavender's. I found Alex to be a good character to start the story off. As the most skeptic of his so called savior from poverty and life's cruelty, Lady Lavender, Alex introduced me to a world where men were paid to pleasure women and didn't necessarily enjoy it. He's forced into this business from a young age and over years, he came to despise what he once considered as exciting in his adolescent mind. Things are different now, he's a grown man and he knows what he does, or is forced to do, and he wants out. Enter, Grace, an almost on the shelf young lady who takes care of her little sister and sick mother on top of dealing with a step brother who's intent on gambling away what little inheritance they have.
The turbulence that goes on in Alex's mind is predictable. Although for some people I think this book could be considered long, I, for one, liked its pace. It's already not easy to come to terms with one's emotions in general, but add to that what Alex did for a living, I think it's quite understandable the guy needed time to sort out his issues. He had a pessimistic personality but this was well balanced with Grace's hopeful and lively demeanor. She was the opposite of Alex in how she viewed life, but it also helped them click in some way because where Alex saw despair and dead end, Grace was able to see happiness and light ahead.
The plot was very intriguing for a historical romance, what with it being about male prostitutes. I think the work they did was what got me curious about this series in the first place, but reading this first book and getting to know the characters, I'm not the least bit sorry to wonder about the words 'male' and 'prostitute' together. It was nice to read a story, a historical one at that, that revolved around men who're not titled or wealthy or anything else they always are in historical romances. Don't get me wrong, I love those men because no matter what, they're always honorable and likable, but the circumstances these men faced just stuck with me. I had to know their stories.
As much as I loved the book and the characters, and even though I said the pace of Alex's struggles was the right one, even I can admit that this book could've been a tad shorter. It's still good as it is, but it wouldn't hurt if it was perhaps a few chapters shorter, you know? But apart from all this, I say this was a great experience as a series first. It intrigued me enough to want to jump to the second book immediately, again, risking the life of a hermit, but I have a feeling it'll be quite worth it.
This book is the introduction of this new world, and tells the story of Alex, the more gentlemanly member of the trio who works at Lady Lavender's. I found Alex to be a good character to start the story off. As the most skeptic of his so called savior from poverty and life's cruelty, Lady Lavender, Alex introduced me to a world where men were paid to pleasure women and didn't necessarily enjoy it. He's forced into this business from a young age and over years, he came to despise what he once considered as exciting in his adolescent mind. Things are different now, he's a grown man and he knows what he does, or is forced to do, and he wants out. Enter, Grace, an almost on the shelf young lady who takes care of her little sister and sick mother on top of dealing with a step brother who's intent on gambling away what little inheritance they have.
The turbulence that goes on in Alex's mind is predictable. Although for some people I think this book could be considered long, I, for one, liked its pace. It's already not easy to come to terms with one's emotions in general, but add to that what Alex did for a living, I think it's quite understandable the guy needed time to sort out his issues. He had a pessimistic personality but this was well balanced with Grace's hopeful and lively demeanor. She was the opposite of Alex in how she viewed life, but it also helped them click in some way because where Alex saw despair and dead end, Grace was able to see happiness and light ahead.
The plot was very intriguing for a historical romance, what with it being about male prostitutes. I think the work they did was what got me curious about this series in the first place, but reading this first book and getting to know the characters, I'm not the least bit sorry to wonder about the words 'male' and 'prostitute' together. It was nice to read a story, a historical one at that, that revolved around men who're not titled or wealthy or anything else they always are in historical romances. Don't get me wrong, I love those men because no matter what, they're always honorable and likable, but the circumstances these men faced just stuck with me. I had to know their stories.
As much as I loved the book and the characters, and even though I said the pace of Alex's struggles was the right one, even I can admit that this book could've been a tad shorter. It's still good as it is, but it wouldn't hurt if it was perhaps a few chapters shorter, you know? But apart from all this, I say this was a great experience as a series first. It intrigued me enough to want to jump to the second book immediately, again, risking the life of a hermit, but I have a feeling it'll be quite worth it.
June 14, 2013
So I read a lot of the reviews before jumping into this one and I have to say I'm a bit shocked more people didn't feel the way I do. I found the book at the end of another historical romance, you know the tiny teaser all books come with these days. It seemed like it would be something fresh and new, even if it was a bit of a stretch...a whorehouse for women and all that. I wasn't disappointed in the slightest.
Alex is a male prostitute with a big secret... Grace is a naive, pure and virginal woman who ends up at his place of employment by what she thinks is a misunderstanding. It turns out it was the right kind of misunderstanding for both of them. Sparks do not immediately fly, something else I found quite refreshing as that is not typically the case with historical romance. With that being said however, they stumble upon adventure, excitement and heart wrenching love.
The review:
Yes, there are some inaccuracies historically. Now, that may really offend some, but for me, I was never really all that concerned with dates, facts, etc. I'm here to be entertained and this book, last time I checked, was not labeled, "based on a true story."
There are some typos and grammatical errors. Truly had I not read the first review listed on goodreads, I probably would not have noticed but I suppose that reader had me looking out for them.
The sex is light if not non-existent. This I have to say surprised me. When I think of the historical romance genre, I think of porn-on-the-page hiding behind virgins in fluffy skirts and pantaloons. Especially if you consider here, the male lead is a whore. Not the case. There is really only one full sex scene with little plays of hotness here and there to in my opinion, fulfill some of the romance genre requirements.
The story itself is truly sweet. It held my attention, I found I cared for both characters and even at times was so immersed I couldn't put the book down. It has its faults but at the end of the day I felt entertained and happy. I would continue with the series and possibly if nothing else struck my fancy, dig into this one again.
5 stars!
Alex is a male prostitute with a big secret... Grace is a naive, pure and virginal woman who ends up at his place of employment by what she thinks is a misunderstanding. It turns out it was the right kind of misunderstanding for both of them. Sparks do not immediately fly, something else I found quite refreshing as that is not typically the case with historical romance. With that being said however, they stumble upon adventure, excitement and heart wrenching love.
The review:
Yes, there are some inaccuracies historically. Now, that may really offend some, but for me, I was never really all that concerned with dates, facts, etc. I'm here to be entertained and this book, last time I checked, was not labeled, "based on a true story."
There are some typos and grammatical errors. Truly had I not read the first review listed on goodreads, I probably would not have noticed but I suppose that reader had me looking out for them.
The sex is light if not non-existent. This I have to say surprised me. When I think of the historical romance genre, I think of porn-on-the-page hiding behind virgins in fluffy skirts and pantaloons. Especially if you consider here, the male lead is a whore. Not the case. There is really only one full sex scene with little plays of hotness here and there to in my opinion, fulfill some of the romance genre requirements.
The story itself is truly sweet. It held my attention, I found I cared for both characters and even at times was so immersed I couldn't put the book down. It has its faults but at the end of the day I felt entertained and happy. I would continue with the series and possibly if nothing else struck my fancy, dig into this one again.
5 stars!
December 7, 2012
This book was neither good, nor bad. For those who want erotica-lite, it might be OK, but I had a whole lot of problems with this book.
One, is that an editor must have never seen this book. Ever. There are lots of misspellings and worse, but I wasn't in it for high lit-ra-cha or anything, and it was free.
It makes itself out to be a historical romance, but other than a bad-historical setting (which may have only been around for the chance to unlace some corsets), there wasn't much historical about it. The attitudes were modern (which wasn't all bad), and the language was a bit of a wreck.
The thing that jarred me the most was that I swore this book was supposed to be about 1860-1870 (too lazy to read back) and the sword of the last czar of Russia appears at a museum, like the writer only knew that Russian aristocrat and threw it in there.
Things that didn't suck: A ballsy heroine who has no time for stupid crap (except for the buried treasure she was looking for), and a damaged hero trying to escape his sordid life.
Alex, someone from some sort of decent family, has landed himself in a brothel for women. The madam of the brothel has some secret she's holding over Alex and keeps him as a virtual slave. Grace, a woman from a formerly decent family, is hitting hard times as her step brother is gambling and drinking way the family money (and into debt), and has the brilliant idea that Grace should go to ye olde brothel to learn some sexy-time ways to seduce their family friend, who is an earl, who will somehow magically save them all. So she meets Alex and adventures happen.
The novel was overall pretty depressing when it started out a little more light-hearted. The language was dirtier than the few romantic/semi-erotic scenes.
So it had promise, and a lot of problems, but I didn't hate it.
One, is that an editor must have never seen this book. Ever. There are lots of misspellings and worse, but I wasn't in it for high lit-ra-cha or anything, and it was free.
It makes itself out to be a historical romance, but other than a bad-historical setting (which may have only been around for the chance to unlace some corsets), there wasn't much historical about it. The attitudes were modern (which wasn't all bad), and the language was a bit of a wreck.
The thing that jarred me the most was that I swore this book was supposed to be about 1860-1870 (too lazy to read back) and the sword of the last czar of Russia appears at a museum, like the writer only knew that Russian aristocrat and threw it in there.
Things that didn't suck: A ballsy heroine who has no time for stupid crap (except for the buried treasure she was looking for), and a damaged hero trying to escape his sordid life.
Alex, someone from some sort of decent family, has landed himself in a brothel for women. The madam of the brothel has some secret she's holding over Alex and keeps him as a virtual slave. Grace, a woman from a formerly decent family, is hitting hard times as her step brother is gambling and drinking way the family money (and into debt), and has the brilliant idea that Grace should go to ye olde brothel to learn some sexy-time ways to seduce their family friend, who is an earl, who will somehow magically save them all. So she meets Alex and adventures happen.
The novel was overall pretty depressing when it started out a little more light-hearted. The language was dirtier than the few romantic/semi-erotic scenes.
So it had promise, and a lot of problems, but I didn't hate it.
January 20, 2012
I got this as a free Kindle edition on my Kindle Fire yesterday. I read the details and The Adult factor along with the twist of a male prostitute instead of a female intrigued me :D
This Book did NOT disappoint. I figured as a free read it would be a short read. Boy was I wrong. It took me 2 days to read and It was soooo good I almost didn't sleep last nite.
I instantly fell in love with this writer. She build a wonderful world full of Earl's and aristocrats. Believable Characters that I fell in love with, felt so sorry for, and even despised. It made me laugh at innocence again, Almost cry, blush in some scenes, and HOTT in others...lol
The story is actually told in 2 points of view through out. His (Alex) and hers (Grace) Both wonderful, well rounded, beautifully written characters, whose chemistry was off the charts. This is the story of a male prostitute so it is for ADULTS ONLY !!!! The fire rating I give this one is 3 out of 5 stars. Nothing Kinky, It is perfect the way I like a good Bedroom scene. :D
The back and forth writing of being saved, captured, escaped, then trouble yet again, really kept me glued to the pages. I honestly could not wait to find out what happened. Lori Brighton is a wonderful writer of historical Romance and I could honestly give her 10 stars lmbo. And thats saying something because I usual find historical's lacking and their NOT my usual read. LOVE,LOVE,LOVE this Book and you will not be disappointed in this read. I am going straight and buying any others in this series.
Conclusion : HIGHLY RECOMMEND :D
This Book did NOT disappoint. I figured as a free read it would be a short read. Boy was I wrong. It took me 2 days to read and It was soooo good I almost didn't sleep last nite.
I instantly fell in love with this writer. She build a wonderful world full of Earl's and aristocrats. Believable Characters that I fell in love with, felt so sorry for, and even despised. It made me laugh at innocence again, Almost cry, blush in some scenes, and HOTT in others...lol
The story is actually told in 2 points of view through out. His (Alex) and hers (Grace) Both wonderful, well rounded, beautifully written characters, whose chemistry was off the charts. This is the story of a male prostitute so it is for ADULTS ONLY !!!! The fire rating I give this one is 3 out of 5 stars. Nothing Kinky, It is perfect the way I like a good Bedroom scene. :D
The back and forth writing of being saved, captured, escaped, then trouble yet again, really kept me glued to the pages. I honestly could not wait to find out what happened. Lori Brighton is a wonderful writer of historical Romance and I could honestly give her 10 stars lmbo. And thats saying something because I usual find historical's lacking and their NOT my usual read. LOVE,LOVE,LOVE this Book and you will not be disappointed in this read. I am going straight and buying any others in this series.
Conclusion : HIGHLY RECOMMEND :D
January 27, 2012
I loved this book, just as I have loved everything I've read by Lori Brighton. Her books are so full of rich characterizations, exciting action, dialogue, and adventure; and sigh-worthy romance that I can visualize the story as if I am watching a Lucas/Spielberg movie. Please ignore the book cover comparison to JoHanna Lindsey--Brighton is sooo much better that such a comparison is faint praise indeed. In spite of the title this wasn't your typical "seduced by a title" Harlequin and even the fortune-hunting part was only secondary to the main, and much better than expected story that it led into. This Victorian romance had a different twist, role reversals in which it was the damaged vulnerable Hero who needed the smart, plucky Heroine to rescue him from the pit of hopelessness and despair and a Snidely Whiplash in feminine packaging. Neither character was actually weak and foolish, just beaten down and confused, but both were adorable. The villains were either despicably evil or just despicably spoiled, selfish and spineless. Although the H/H's story was brought to a close so that this was a stand alone book, there were enough loose ends left in the secondary stories to leave me expecting future books. This book also deserves the warning not to start it late at night because it is too hard to put down.
December 19, 2017
Gym reading, aka free or super cheap on the Kindle.
This just...no. The entire book was Alex waffling back and forth. Just leave already! Both main characters were severely misused and didn't seem to want to do anything much about it.
*SPOILERS*
Grace, near the end, goes to Alex to get him to translate some Russian stuff for a treasure she wants to find (Really, Grace? How old are you?). Even though he's SO IN LOVE OMG, he immediately thinks somehow that she only wants him for that and won't listen to her. In the realm of the misunderstanding trope in romance books, this one fell very flat.
Later, when Grace leaves with Alex, she just leaves her sister and mother. Seriously? We've already established that her sister is of age to marry for this time. Their brother has already tried to whore Grace out to his "friend." Yet she gives absolutely no thought to leaving her sister with her brother and the friend. Don't you think he might turn to her next? Jeez. And what's wrong with the rest of the prostitutes or courtesans in London? Why does he have to pay to get Grace all trained up as one? Gah!
This just...no. The entire book was Alex waffling back and forth. Just leave already! Both main characters were severely misused and didn't seem to want to do anything much about it.
*SPOILERS*
Grace, near the end, goes to Alex to get him to translate some Russian stuff for a treasure she wants to find (Really, Grace? How old are you?). Even though he's SO IN LOVE OMG, he immediately thinks somehow that she only wants him for that and won't listen to her. In the realm of the misunderstanding trope in romance books, this one fell very flat.
Later, when Grace leaves with Alex, she just leaves her sister and mother. Seriously? We've already established that her sister is of age to marry for this time. Their brother has already tried to whore Grace out to his "friend." Yet she gives absolutely no thought to leaving her sister with her brother and the friend. Don't you think he might turn to her next? Jeez. And what's wrong with the rest of the prostitutes or courtesans in London? Why does he have to pay to get Grace all trained up as one? Gah!
February 7, 2012
I was pretty sure this book would be given a 5-star rating but find myself wavering between a 3-star or 4-star rating instead. The book started out great! I absolutely LOVED the premise of a man working in a brothel that catered to women. Quite unique and rather believable. Grace was a likeable enough character and Alex was swoon-worthy from start. The scene where they meet one another for the first time - Hilarious!
However, the longer the story went on I found myself rushing to get to the end because I grew tired of the constanst "angst" the two felt concerning their relationship - especially Alex. Yes, I understood he felt trapped but one minute he seeks escape to be with Grace and then the next he feels that she deserves better than a whore so he turns her away. It was all rather tiresome after awhile.
I would like to read more about Gideon however. I was quite intrigued by the "warrior" whore.
However, the longer the story went on I found myself rushing to get to the end because I grew tired of the constanst "angst" the two felt concerning their relationship - especially Alex. Yes, I understood he felt trapped but one minute he seeks escape to be with Grace and then the next he feels that she deserves better than a whore so he turns her away. It was all rather tiresome after awhile.
I would like to read more about Gideon however. I was quite intrigued by the "warrior" whore.
November 1, 2011
Actually it was kind of boring. And yeah it was a fresh twist on the whole prostitute in a bad situation and tries to better himself/herself, but really it was the same kind of story lines. I don't know if this book is supposed to be part of a series, I'm assuming so since there are a lot of loose ends to deal with. For instance what happens to the other male prostitutes that Alex leaves behind? But maybe I'm just feeling a bit jaded since I've been in a reading slump. But never-less it was a fast read.
dnf
January 26, 2014What a silly premise. Since when would mothers risk their family's reputation to insure their daughters have a good sexual experience their first time? I mean, really!
And this plan to 'gain experience' to seduce a man seems full of peril. Who told you that will do the trick? There are plenty of experienced women out there already and he's not married yet, so knowing what to do in the sack is not guarantee for sucess.
DNF
And this plan to 'gain experience' to seduce a man seems full of peril. Who told you that will do the trick? There are plenty of experienced women out there already and he's not married yet, so knowing what to do in the sack is not guarantee for sucess.
DNF
November 26, 2016
Liked the book
I'm not usually one for historical romance but I did like this book. Great characters, interesting storyline, and a nice HEA.
I'm not usually one for historical romance but I did like this book. Great characters, interesting storyline, and a nice HEA.
August 4, 2017
This was exactly the book I was looking for. I ran through so many emotions when reading, it was so punch you in the gut emotional but also quite humorous at times.
The set up of a brothel catering to females was intriguing and something I haven't read in the historical romance genre before. The story centers around Alex who, through horrible and somewhat mysterious circumstances, is taken as a child and forced to sell himself at Lady Lavenders. As an adult who hasn't left the business, he's afraid, he noble, he's confused. He wants a life and a clean soul, but he fears he'll never be free of his demons. He's an alpha hero who is also the victim in this story. Grace was the perfect match for him. She was overwhelmingly positive and good. She made him feel like a human and not merchandise.
I loved the characters. I normally can't stand whiny and "woe is me" heroes, but Alex was the exception. He had every reason to feel and behave the way he does, to not be able to trust and love.
There were a few things that were left unfinished (what were in the Russian letters? What's happening with the brother?) but overall it was such a good, character driven story. I can't wait to read the next two books and learn more about Lady Lavender and hope she gets what's coming to her! Fantastic epilogue.
The set up of a brothel catering to females was intriguing and something I haven't read in the historical romance genre before. The story centers around Alex who, through horrible and somewhat mysterious circumstances, is taken as a child and forced to sell himself at Lady Lavenders. As an adult who hasn't left the business, he's afraid, he noble, he's confused. He wants a life and a clean soul, but he fears he'll never be free of his demons. He's an alpha hero who is also the victim in this story. Grace was the perfect match for him. She was overwhelmingly positive and good. She made him feel like a human and not merchandise.
I loved the characters. I normally can't stand whiny and "woe is me" heroes, but Alex was the exception. He had every reason to feel and behave the way he does, to not be able to trust and love.
There were a few things that were left unfinished (what were in the Russian letters? What's happening with the brother?) but overall it was such a good, character driven story. I can't wait to read the next two books and learn more about Lady Lavender and hope she gets what's coming to her! Fantastic epilogue.
July 4, 2017
A sweet sexy redemption story. His situation and its hopelessness, being stuck was particularly well presented, though his repeated self effacing talk and actions got tiresome. He never really manned up enough for my taste, she basically dragged him with her by the hair. She was impressively headstrong and steadfast but in a somewhat naive trusting way. On page 148/280 when he says to her "you are so beautiful, Dorogoy", meaning Darling in Russian, he gramatically meant to say Dorogaya, since he is talking about a female. The fiance and the brother made most believable creeps.
July 10, 2017
Free Prime read. Not a good pick.
Empty calories. Was hoping for entertainment, but the characters have no originality, no depth. Everyone is less than one dimensional. Good characters and plot need multilayered elements, but this felt thrown together. The story suffers from common and overused issues: insta love, flowery prose, and repetitive language. (The guy is always "raking" his fingers through his hair.)
Empty calories. Was hoping for entertainment, but the characters have no originality, no depth. Everyone is less than one dimensional. Good characters and plot need multilayered elements, but this felt thrown together. The story suffers from common and overused issues: insta love, flowery prose, and repetitive language. (The guy is always "raking" his fingers through his hair.)
March 18, 2018
Surprising a good read
This is the first in a three part series set around early Victorian in a brothel for woman. A man who job is to work with innocent maid meets a woman who thinks she has to meet him for a rare book and not there for his skills. Through many accidental meeting they find the need each other to save them. But there is more going on with their past present lives than they realise. This a complete book no cliff hanger
This is the first in a three part series set around early Victorian in a brothel for woman. A man who job is to work with innocent maid meets a woman who thinks she has to meet him for a rare book and not there for his skills. Through many accidental meeting they find the need each other to save them. But there is more going on with their past present lives than they realise. This a complete book no cliff hanger
October 26, 2016
ugh!! This story was not very good at all. Boring and annoying. You just keep reading and reading waiting for something to happen and you get....nothing. There was very little dialogue between the characters, just thoughts and feelings. The sex was good. I have read so many books and this one makes me mad that I wasted my time. Keep your 99 cents. Sorry Lori Brighton this was just not good.
July 6, 2022
Good Read
Loved Grace and Alex. We really don’t find many books about male prostitutes and he broke my heart. If anyone had ever been brainwashed it was him. Women can be just as evil as women and Lady Lavender proves it. It’s not like a usual read but well worth it.
Loved Grace and Alex. We really don’t find many books about male prostitutes and he broke my heart. If anyone had ever been brainwashed it was him. Women can be just as evil as women and Lady Lavender proves it. It’s not like a usual read but well worth it.
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