Simply Scandalous

House Of Pleasure #9

by Kate Pearce

A weary soldier and a seductive spy find love in a Regency-era brothel in this historical erotic romance by the New York Times bestselling author.

After years of fighting on the continent, Richard Ross has finally returned to London to make peace with his father. And the erotic delights of his stepmother's exclusive House of Pleasure provide a welcome distraction for his war-weary heart. But he is shocked to encounter someone there whose resemblance to his lost love leaves him both tempted and tormented . . .

As a former spy, Violet LeNy has mastered the art of deception. But there is no disguising the heated passion that still burns between her and Richard, the man she once betrayed but who now is her only hope of survival. Soon she plans a scandalous game of seduction where sensual surrender is the ultimate pleasure . . .

Praise for the House of Pleasure series

“With historical detail, strong character development, a slight mystery, caring relationships and smoking hot sex, there is something for everyone.” — RT Book Reviews on Simply Sinful

“Sinfully hot. If you like your romance hot as you return to the Regency era, where behind the scenes anything goes, then grab Simply Carnal for your reading pleasure.” — Romance Reviews Today

Genres: Erotica, Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Erotic Romance, BDSM, M M F

340 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2012

About the author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kate Pearce was born in England in the middle of a large family of girls and quickly found that her imagination was far more interesting than real life. After acquiring a degree in history and barely escaping from the British Civil Service alive, she moved to California and then to Hawaii with her kids and her husband and set about reinventing herself as a romance writer.

She is known for both her unconventional heroes and her joy at subverting romance clichés. In her spare time she self publishes science fiction erotic romance, historical romance, and whatever else she can imagine. You can find Kate on katepearce.com.

Reviews

[Bibliotecaria recomienda · Rating 4 out of 5]

En este libro conoceremos la historia de Richard Ross y Violet, pero también la de su hermana Emily Ross y Ambrose.

La historia tiene varias subtramas que hacen la historia muy interesante. Los protagonistas tienen que encontrar a un exespía que quiere ver muerta a Violet y a su hermano y por otro lado, el pasado volverá para chantajear a los Ross. Como todos los libros de esta serie, son altamente eróticos y desinhibidos.

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

sniff sniff Sad to say that my Simply Pleasures series has come to an end. Simply Scandalous is the last book and it is the story of siblings Richard and Emily Ross. These are Helene's stepchildren from Phillip and they each get their own HEA. Richard's story might have been the main story but I liked the secondary story of Ambrose and Emily. Emily had a bit of growing up to do and i'm glad that she was headstrong and followed her heart. Good story with a twist at the end with a bit of mystery but overall a nice finish.
If you haven't heard of this series you should take a look. It was one of my first erotica series to come across and it has a bit of everything in it. Definitely heat and spice, definitely love and romance, and a whole bunch of characters to take you along the way of finding pleasure. I just couldn't resist. The author is planning another series, The Sinners Club, and I am looking forward to this one.

[Letitia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: C ... Heat: Sizzling

Simply Scandalous should not be read as a standalone. If you really wanted to, you could figure everything out as you go but, as I discovered, it isn’t terribly easy. I spent the first 30% of this book thinking, ‘Huh?’ and ‘Who?’ and ‘What?’ Which made it difficult to simply immerse myself in. But, eventually, it all began to make sense and I was able to really sink into the House of Pleasure world.

The first character we meet is Richard Ross, a former spy now enjoying the retired life. So much so that his family thinks him... dull. And in a family where his father is married to the former proprietress of London's most exclusive house of pleasure—which his half brother now runs—being called boring rubs him the wrong way. He itches to prove to them he isn’t the dullard they think. And when he gets dragged into a new assignment, his life becomes more exciting than he bargained for. And brings him face to face with a ghost from his past.

Violet LeNy, in hiding and now known to the ton as Vincent Lennox, was also a spy. Knowing that Richard won’t forgive her for faking her death, she also knows he’s the only one that can help her and her twin brother, Jack. Desperate to save her and her brother’s life, Violet will do anything to get Richard to trust her again.

And I do mean anything. And by anything, I’m talking anything sexual. Richard Ross is quite creative in that regard, let me tell you. Wow. Watching those two get reacquainted was seriously steamy and creatively kinky.

Though Richard and Violet may be the main hero and heroine, I think they are outshined by Emily Ross and Ambrose.

Emily, Richard’s younger sister, is sheltered and protected. And, when most of her family spends their days in a house of ill repute, that probably isn’t a bad thing. But no matter their best intentions, Emily finds herself in love with the pleasure palace’s manager—a freed slave named Ambrose. And she spends her days trying to convince (and tease and torment) him to risk it all for her.

Ambrose has had a rough life and doesn’t ever want to be homeless or at anyone else’s mercy. And even though he pines for Emily, he doesn’t feel worthy of her. He also doesn’t want to risk his relationship with Emily’s half brother, Christian. But all his protests prove fruitless when Emily begins her one woman campaign to seduce him. And seduce him she does.

Simply Scandalous is not your run of the mill historical romance, that is for sure. These characters are like... hedonists. Pleasure for one and all, with no reservations. And the sex—it is sinfully erotic and kinky. We're talking back door play, male on male, and even some creative use of antique sex toys... And, not gonna lie, I loved it all. So much so that I wish there was more of it and less of the espionage aspect. I just couldn't get into it at all. I guess spy games aren’t my thing.

But my thing is definitely heroes and heroines who behave badly—the more lascivious and bawdy, the better! I can’t wait to go back and read Christian’s book, Simply Carnal. And I’m really hoping Jack Lennox’s book is next because it will be wild. Miz Pearce has truly created something special here with her House of Pleasure series.

Favorite Quote:

With a groan, he kissed his way down to her taut nipple and drew it deep into his mouth, sucking and licking it until she was panting. His hand covered her mound, his middle finger sliding easily into the thick wetness to find the swell of her bud. He circled her there until she met every demand with a roll of her hips, until she was clutching at his shoulders, demanding her due, seeking her pleasure from his fingers.

-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review.

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[crίѕтίŋα•●Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ●• · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars :D

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was first posted at Reading Between the Wines!

Richard Ross is a dull man compared to the rest of his Ross-Delornay family. Or at least they think so. The truth is, Richard has been living quite a fascinating life as a part time spy for the crown. A part time job that once was quite active when he was in France ten years ago. Of course, working for the crown wasn't the only thing he was doing in France. No he also fell in love with Violet LeNy, and then she was murdered in front of him. Or at least that's what he thought until he came across a man in his step mother's Pleasure House that had a striking resemblance to his long lost Violet.

Violet LeNy is on the run with her twin brother Jack Lennox. There's someone trying to kill them. The elusive 'Mr. Brown'. So they're on a mission to figure out who Mr. Brown is and stop him once and for all so that they can finally live a peaceful existence, and start over in England, away from their native France. This mission brings old wounds to the surface for Violet though when she has to use the only man she's ever loved, and walked away from to save, to help her find Mr. Brown. The fact that Richard is furious at her deception is an understatement. But will Richard help her, or will he walk away and leave Violet and Jack doomed to the possibility of death at Mr. Brown's hands?

I've read almost the entire series of Ms. Pearce's House of Pleasure Series. I think I've only missed one or two books. While this one wasn't my favorite, it was still a good read, and I found myself enjoying the conclusion of some long time issues for the Ross-Delornay clan. Richard's issues with his father are resolved, and it had a nice back story including the youngest sibling Emily. From what I understand this is the last book of the House of Pleasure Series, and she will be starting a new series called the Sinner's Club with her next book. So it's a four wine glass toast to Simply Scandalous, and let's bring on the next wickedly naughty historical piece from Ms. Pearce shall we? I love this woman's naughty imagination.

[Alycia · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Simply Scandalous" was a good ending to the House of Pleasure Series. I must preface this review by saying that this book cannot be read as a stand-alone. Many of the minor characters are recurring and have had their own books in the series.

This book was about Richard Ross from the Ross-Delornay family. A retired spy that lost the love of his life, a french loyalist who was shot in front of him in France. Although, things are not what they appear. A man by the name of Vincent Lennox mysteriously shows up and reminds Richard of Violet, the love he lost. Vincent is indeed Violet. Now relocated to England with her newly found twin brother, Jack to start life over. Violet was a French spy and now part of her organization is out to eliminate her.

Once Richard discovers the truth, he is entangled in a plot to discover who is trying to kill Violet. During this process he falls in love with Violet again. They both had to learn to trust each other and their love again. It was a satisfactory love story and an ending to the series.

There was a side love story in this book. Richard's sister, Emily is a sheltered somewhat spoiled young woman. She is a bit of a spitfire and wants what she wants. She decides she wants Ambrose, an employee and manager of The Pleasure House and good friend of Christian Delornay. Ambrose is also a former slave and although he loves Emily, he doesn't believe he is worthy to be hers. Emily will have to fight for what she wants and Ambrose will have to accept his life and his love for Emily.

The love scenes in this book, while not the steamiest in the series, will not disappoint fans of the series. I look forward to Jack Lennox's book in Pearce's spin off series, The Sinners Club. The Club was introduced in this book.

* Thank you to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this book.

[Lindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed for TwoLips Reviews, LLC
5 Kisses, Recommended Read
3 Peppers - M/F, M/M, M/M/F, oral & anal sex, public sex

Richard Ross has always been the "white sheep" of his scandalous family. He's the half brother of Christian Delornay who runs the pleasure house that he inherited from their mother. Violet Lennox was Richard's first love, but she supposedly died years ago and he mourned her deeply. Now she's back from the dead and masquerading as a man, Vincent Lennox. She and her twin brother Jack are wrapped up in some dangerous intrigue, and Richard has been asked to help them.

Richard and Emily's mother left her journal with secrets from the past that might be better left hidden, but which may ultimately help Richard stop blaming his father for his parents' disastrous marriage. This wraps up some loose ends from previous books and the reconciliation between Richard and his father is a nice addition to the end of the series.

Simply Scandalous includes a delightful bonus love story between Richard's sister Emily and longtime family friend and Pleasure House employee, Ambrose. Ambrose is African American and he feels he's so far beneath Emily that he has no right to even consider being with her. I enjoyed their romance at least as much as the one between Richard and Violet, maybe more. Ambrose has been one of my favorite characters throughout the series.

There are several story lines happening in this book, so it really is helpful to have read previous books in the series. This is the last and final book in the series, and I'm really sad to see it end. This is definitely one of my top favorite series of all time. Kate Pearce has created a world that has many twists and turns, passion, intrigue, and characters that I will never forget. This is a must read for historical erotic romance fans.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

After years away from home, Richard Ross has finally returned to London to be with his family. But even the delights of his stepmother’s pleasure house cannot distract Richard from the rut he finds himself in. Then an encounter with an enticing stranger changes everything…

Violet Lennox, a former spy known as Violet LeNy, has come to London with her twin seeking safety. What she finds instead is Richard, the man she loved and betrayed years ago. Richard thought her dead, and he’s furious when he learns of her deception. Neither anger nor years of separation can quell the passion that always burns bright and hot between them, but Violet knows Richard will never trust her again. Still, she cannot help but hope to win his love back. That is, if a dangerous enemy doesn’t kill her first.

It’s always sad to see a beloved series end, but Kate Pearce gives the House of Pleasure series a fantastic send-off with Simply Scandalous. Violet and Richard are two characters who are far more than most people believe them to be. Their relationship after they reconnect is tumultuous for a while, but Ms. Pearce had me rooting for them by the end. I do wish, however, that we’d seen some of Violet and Richard’s shared past, since their love story in Simply Scandalous is built on the foundation of them having fallen in love years before. Having seen at least pieces of their initial romance might have helped me connect with them earlier in the story.

Sharing the spotlight with Violet and Richard are Ambrose, the manager of the pleasure house, and Emily, Richard’s sister. Ambrose and Emily’s romance might be my favorite of the two love stories in Simply Scandalous. Emily is the most sheltered member of her very unusual family, but she knows what she wants from life and, more importantly, who she wants and is willing to risk everything for love. Ambrose, in turn, is a former slave who is quite clearly in love with Emily but believes that racism and the difference in their social classes means he doesn’t have a chance with her. It isn’t an easy road to happily ever after for these two, but Ms. Pearce makes the journey well worth it.

Simply Scandalous is the ninth book in the House of Pleasure series. Though it can be read as a standalone, I don’t recommend doing so. Because of all the supporting characters and the sometimes complicated relationships in Simply Scandalous, I recommend at least reading Simply Shameless (the story of Philip, Richard and Emily’s father, and Helene, their stepmother) and Simply Carnal (the story of Christian, Richard and Emily’s half-brother). The backstories of the supporting characters in Simply Scandalous are helpful in understanding how they connect with Richard, Emily, and Ambrose. The only downside to having read and loved Simply Shameless is that I was already so attached to Philip that I was sometimes frustrated with Richard’s views on him. Richard’s opinion of his father is tainted by the influence of his deceased, rhymes-with-witch mother. Since I already knew the true story of Philip’s first marriage, I was eager for Richard to make peace with his father. In the end, though, some of my favorite scenes in Simply Scandalous involve Richard and Emily’s rather unique family. Though the Delornay-Ross clan is full of misfits and sometimes brazenly scandalous people, the love they all have for each other is touching.

While Ms. Pearce has stated that Simply Scandalous is the final House of Pleasure book, it doesn’t mean everything’s wrapped up in a tidy bow. Indeed, Simply Scandalous makes way for Ms. Pearce’s next series, The Sinners Club, which is a relief since I was intrigued by Violet’s too-charming-for-his-own-good twin, Jack, who is supposed to be the hero for the first book in the new series. So while I’m sad to say good-bye to the House of Pleasure series, I can hold out hope that some of my favorite characters will make a cameo in the first Sinners Club book.

Simply Scandalous has all the passion, emotion, and complexity I expect of a Kate Pearce novel. Richard, Violet, Emily, and Ambrose will all surely find their way into readers’ hearts. As with all of the House of Pleasure books, I look forward to re-reading Simply Scandalous again and again and again!

Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Richard Ross was a spy for England in France. Now that he has retired to England, no one knows of his past service for his country including his family. He is considered the “dull” family member. Richard left his heart in France when he witnesses the death of the woman he loves, Violet.

Violet LeNy is a former spy, and running for her life. She runs right into Richard Ross path. Not only is she not dead but he might be the only one to save her from a double agent’s assassination plans.

Both Richard and Violet are caught in the immense chemistry that has always been between them. But can they truly trust each other or will one of them be betrayed and pay the ultimate price.

Not reading any of the previous books in the House of Pleasure series, I did have to play some catch up to understand who was who. That being said this was a very interesting book, with a strong mystery, extremely erotic and steamy sexual encounters and a decent amount of action. I enjoyed reading Violet and Richard’s story. There was also a side story between Ambrose, the former slave now manager of the Pleasure House, and Emily Ross, sister to Richard and unmarried at 23. I found Simply Scandalous interesting and enjoyable and look forward to back read some of the stories in this series. 3 1/2 Stars.

This ARC copy of Simply Scandalous was given to me by Netgalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. in exchange for an honest review. Publish Date December 24, 2012.

[~ Lei ~ Reading Is An Adventure ~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wrapped up this series in a nice little bow. If I recall the secret about Emily's parentage was revealed in so this closed that loop.

This is actually two couple's story - Richard and his long-lost love Violet and Emily and Ambrose. I liked some of the earlier books in the series better but this was satisfying.

[Daisy Sloan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review will appear at http://romantichistoricallovers.wordp... on December 24, 2012

Simply Scandalous is perfectly scandalous! It’s a wonderful, hot , erotic, historical romance that spans continents and years. I loved every minute of decadence contained in this story.

So, what’s there to love about Simply Scandalous? Well, everything! What does this story not have? It has spies, romance, secrets, kidnapping, inter-racial relationships, brothels, intrigue, conspiracy, bastille survivors, and cross-dressing, just to name a few!

Richard Ross spent years in France as a spy. While he was there, he met and fell in love with a French Spy, Violet LeNy. He watched her die, and with it, his ability to love. Years later, he meets her again, but not as he expected! Violet needs his help, but can he see past the deception and lies she put him through? Will he help her? Or, will her life be forfeit?

I was intrigued by this story from the very beginning. We have a member of the peerage married to a survivor of the French Bastille (doing anything to survive), who once ran a brothel. Now her son runs it! Not only does her son run it, but the rest of the family tends to “hang out” at the Pleasure House. Inside the Pleasure House, anything goes. If you can imagine it, you can find it there!

Emily, Richard’s sister, is in love with Ambrose, an African man who works at the Pleasure House. Richard is accused of loving men and Violet is back from the dead! It just keeps going from there!

Each time we visit the Pleasure House, exquisite pleasures are described in detail and it’s HOT and explicit! In between visits to the house, we have a mystery to solve. Who is killing off the former spies of England? Who is the elusive Mr. Brown? What is Violet hiding? On top of that mystery, we have a mystery surrounding Richard’s father and sister. When will this poor family get a break? I guess it’s true, when it rains, it pours!

All of these problems stem from the problems surrounding the life and times in England in the 1820’s. Marriages were arranged, no matter if they loved each other or not. The French Revolution is over, the after math is still being felt by those that were part of it. England is spying on France and France is spying on England. All of the spying and arranging of people’s lives for God and Country has everlasting affects. And quite often, the sins of the father are visited upon the children.

This is the first book in this series that I’ve read. While I realize I’ve missed some of the backstory on many of the characters, I did not feel lost at any point in time. I will definitely go back to read others in the series!

A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley.

[mer · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars

I may as well say that this book has two different stories with slightly a little bit connected. So, I am going to talk about Richard and Violet. Two were already a couple back in France but things didn't go their ways and they separated until they met again and with a different quest. The romance was mild that I didn't really enjoy but I liked the mystery and it was thrilling. The excitement of puzzle solving was captivating and I couldn't stop from turning pages.

Another story is Richard's sister, Emily. She also had her own mystery but it wasn't as thrilling as Richard's. She had intense interaction between her and Ambrose. The two were both tortured souls so it was kind of heart-wrenching. On romane part, I mean and a quite bit of feeling annoyed by Emily herself. She's one tough head and it was infuriating read on her part.

Overall, it's an HEA. And I came to know that this book is the last in the series. I am so sad, really, because I love House of Pleasure. Anyway, the knowing and reading all of the stories from the beginning until the with great experienes. So, thanks Ms. Pearce for this series.

Read on your own peril.

[Pam Godwin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The ninth book in the House of Pleasure series is an incisive plot of sex, deception, and spies in Regency London. But the mysteries take too long to play out and the romance suffers from a feeble focal point. The relationship between Richard and Violet is a moody, manipulative affair that never fully grabs hold. The side stories and battling liaisons between Violet's brother, Richard's sister, and Ambrose create a claustrophobic texture that smothers the Violet/Richard development.

For mystery/history buffs, however, Violet's sense of paranoia and seemingly sinister machinations is a compelling plot point. Add Ambrose's relationships and back story, and these intricacies evoke interwoven worlds of gentry and squalor, immersing you into the proprieties of historical London. KP's seasoned writing paints the day-to-day nature of this charming era which, more often than not, reads like a historical fiction novel with erotic intermissions rather than the intimate period romance it wants to be.

***ARC by courtesy of Kensington Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for honest feedback.***

[Valeri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the simply series by Kate Pearce. This book doesn't disappoint. In this installment she added a bit more mystery and had a secondary couple as well. like all of her books it is very well written and scorching hot! The interesting part of this read for me was that i was more vested with the secondary couple. Still loved it and look forward to her books.

Some pointers about this series: if you don't like lots of hot and steamy sex, this is not the book for you. Also, it helps to read all of the books in the series so one can understand who is who, etc.

Great Book Ms. Pearce and Thanks Net Galley for the opportunity to review.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simply Scandalous is the deliciously sexy final installment of Kate Pearce’s House of Pleasure series. An intriguing mystery and a secondary romance make this novel a little different from the other books in the series. The sex scenes are still smoking hot and longtime fans of the series will be delighted with the wrap up of all the various storylines. To read my review in its entirety, please click HERE.

[londa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this author. I received this book from Net Galley awhile back and started it and didn't finish. i'm so glad for Net galley because I just read Tempting a Sinner by Pearce and loved it. that is what made me go back to this book. Im so glad I did. I enjoy her writing. its not for everyone especially those who don't like explicit love scenes, but I loved them. Also MM sex. Now I have read all of her books out of order. I have them all on my amazon and all romance wish list waiting on a sale. they are much better if you read in order but I will just have to reread once I get all of them.

[Silvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely wrap up

I have been putting off reading the last book in this series because I didn't want it to end. But now it's all wrapped up for the friends and family of The House of Pleasure. This book is more suspenseful than the others, with less sex, but I loved it all the same.

[TinaMarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two different couples stories, spy games, unearthing traitors. Blackmail and family secrets come to light. While the stories are improbable they are still entertaining to read

[Magie DeSmith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderfully Entertaining

Quite a different plot. All the characters were quite different and enjoyably different. Looking forward to reading all the books

[Isabel Luna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Me gustó bastante más de lo esperado y es que tiene una trama mucho más elaborada que los primeros libros aunq sin ser compleja y la historia se lee fácil y rápido. Richard ya se estaba convirtiendo en personaje recurrente y se ponía interesante, aunq para efectos de la trama pase por ser el Ross "aburrido". Aunq no es un macho alfa, sabe como hacerle frente al peligro y vemos aquí q carga con un pasado mucho más interesante q simplemente ser el niño mimado pataleando xq papi se volvió a casar.
Violet por su parte no es muy diferente de las demás heroínas de libros anteriores. Igual q las damas Delornay, es una chica q ha hecho lo q hizo falta hacer para sobrevivir y eso siempre es de valorar; pero aparte hay una suerte de atisbo de heroísmo en la vida de Violet, que le podríamos reclamar a la autora por no haber desarrallo más a fondo, pero lo disculpo por la duplicidad del personaje de Violet q le dio saber suficiente, aunq solo no fuera por su gemelo diabolico.
De hecho, desde mi punto de vista, la trama no profundiza demasiado en los personajes, sino en su interacción común, lo cual no es una sorpresa porque hemos tenido a los mismos personajes durante los últimos 4 libros, al punto que dejó de ser la saga Sokorsky para convertirse en la saga Delornay - Ross; pero precisamente por eso creo q la autora hizo bien en no perder páginas explicando el pasado común de Richard y Violet y simplemente los lanzó uno en brazos del otro y juntos frente al peligro.
Lo de Amborsse y Emily por su parte me pareció magistral, no solo por la cuestión interracial sino xq Emily ha sido un personaje q de a poco se fue haciendo su propio lugar en la historia, creando su propia trama y creciendose en importancia. Muy linda pareja la verdad, la de estos dos y lamento no haber tenido más de ellos.
El suspense no estuvo muy complicado pero al abrir varios frentes con incógnitas diferentes compensó lo soso del misterio y lo predecible del villano. Una de las raras ocasiones en que la cantidad compensa la calidad, supongo. Aunq ese final estuvo tibio, tibio. Y no se puede evitar la comparación entre el primer libro de la serie y este último en cuanto a la cantidad de sexo en uno y en otro. No es q no me guste el equilibrio, pero mientras en el primer libro se quitaban la ropa a la menor cuestión, aquí han sido mucho más contenidos, aunq tal vez solo es que tenían una fijación diferente, tal vez, más oral...
Cuestión q Jack ha sido toda una sorpesa como personaje, y hubiera lamentado no haber tenido más de él, pero aparentemente, sí lo hay.
En resumen, buena serie si te gusta el sexo en abundancia y no te molesta el "todos contra todos" y especialmente el sexo MM. No esperes grandes joyas de la literatura universal, pero si te quieres entretener, la experiencia puede incluso resultar instructiva.

[Paola Garcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5

Final de serie!!!

No ha sido la mejor historia pero sí estuvo entretenida. Descansare un buen tiempo de esta autora.
Esta historia se trata de los primeros hijos de Phillip: Richard y Emily.

De Richard aunque no se diga explícitamente intuimos que en su estadía en Francia trabajo como espía, nos enteramos también que estuvo enamorado de Violet, y creyéndola muerta se llevara una sorpresa cuando la ve vestida como hombre y en compañía de su hermano gemelo De quien desconocía su existencia.. Esta trama gira en torno a descubrir un espía que ha traicionado a sus compañeros y está amenazando de muerte a los gemelos Lenox (Violet y su hermano).

La relación entre ellos al comienzo es tensa. Pese a que han transcurrido diez años desde su separación él se siente traicionado. Pero aún se percibe que existen sentimientos que no se han resuelto entre ellos.

Por otro parte nos contaran la historia de Emily y Ambrose Ya sabíamos que tenían su cuento desde libros pasados. También tienen un minidrama entre ellos y algo con la legitimidad de ella por la aparición del que fue amante de su madre. Recordemos que Ambrose es un ex-esclavo (negro) ahora mejor amigo de Christian, mano derecha en la casa del placer. Al final lograran pasar las barreras de los convencionalismos y de las clases sociales.

Justo final, no eran convenientes mas alargues. De los personajes que pudimos considerar importantes ya tuvieron sus historias.

Realmente es una serie erótica que explora muchos caminos y relaciones abiertas (que no son mucho de mi tipo) y algo avanzadas para la época. Las relaciones amorosas eran más basadas en el tema sexual que en el conocimiento real de la pareja.

Un check más a mi lista.

[Ana María · Rating 4 out of 5]

Creo que es un final digno para la serie "La casa del placer", sobre todo porque los dos libros anteriores estuvieron medio flojos y los protagonistas de este, no me simpatizaban demasiado.
No tenía expectativas elevadas.
En esta novela conocemos los amores de los hijos de Philip, el esposo de Madame Helene, el ¿aburrido? Richard y la inocente Emily.
Richard se reencontrará con un amor del pasado, Violet, e intentará protegerla de malvados ex espías aunque no esté seguro si ella es sincera o está intentando ponerle una trampa. Mientras intenta recomponer la relación con su padre cuando salgan a la luz secretos del pasado.
La siempre protegida Emily, además de verse envuelta en una extorsión por esos secretos, intentará conquistar al hombre que ama que no es ni más ni menos que Ambrose, el gerente negro de la casa del placer.
Un cierre digno de la historia aunque me deja con ganas de seguir la siguiente serie "Sinner's Club" cuyo primer libro está protagonizado por Jack Lennox, el "ambivalente" hermano de Violet, que en esta historia tuvo un fuerte protagonismo.
Advierto que esta es una serie histórica erótica, con sexo explícito y muy raruno.
La casa del placer, es un selecto club donde hombres y mujeres van a cumplir sus más excentricas fantasia sexuales, consensuado y sin culpas.
Casi un universo alternativo.
Pero también tiene otras cosas que pasan, sentimientos, traumas, conspiraciones, etc.
Y una vez más, mis felicitaciones a Kate Pearce por su excelente inglés al que pude acceder pese a mis limitaciones.

[Wordsworth · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars.

A frustrating continuation of the series. This one had many exciting threads and characters intertwined, but the writing always leaves me feeling short-changed on the emotional connections needed to push the plot forward. This was especially the case with Emily and Ambrose, who have been building up to the romance in this book. And yet there is no chemistry between them! It should be there, the plot professes it to be there, the other characters say they observe it, but we're not shown it in their interactions. Give us physical cues in their interactions, or something...

And once again we're faced with this weird juxtaposition of anything-goes erotica and reluctance to break away from female purity dictating physical sexual behavior. The men, no problem, their cocks can go freaking anywhere; but have one innocent woman and she gets coddled and denied any actual physical sexual taboos. Sure, the man she loves can totally get banged by another dude while she watches, but SHE can't touch the other dude, and she certainly can't lose her blasted virginity. Just get over this weird hang-up already and let all your characters be wild, or stop with the sexual double standards.

I need a break from this series.

[Smutty19 · Rating 2 out of 5]

A twofer
Richard was a spy for the crown and finds his life back in England full until he meets Jack Lennox. Jack reminds him of his former lover Violet in France. Then he meets Jacks twin.
Emily is in love with Ambrose. Ambrose believes she can marry well and should forget about him. She also receives her mothers diaries and learns about her past.
Forget these kids. I was happy Phillips kids finally saw what he went through for him. This book wasn’t as spicy as the previous ones.
Overall book⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Marisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serie con altísimo contenido erótico muy explicito, eso lo primero.

Pero analiza los sentimientos de los personajes, quizá porque no hay tabúes en las escenas y el vocabulario.

Emily descubre la vida, final espectacular para una serie que he leído en 2 etapas. Finaliza con todo atado con todos los personaje es en su sitio, en la vida hay etapas y circunstancias que hay que analizar antes de juzgar.

Me ha encantado una frase: "el puso la semilla, pero el honor de la paternidad es mio"

[shelly shells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

What an ending to this series, even though it seems as it was about Richard, I loved that Emily was able to be written in. Kate lived up to the fire that she writes in her books and saw that with Emily and Ambrose.. Just wanted more of them... Awesome series from Helena and Phillip to every one in between.. Kudos yo you Kate Pearce...

[Charlston Goch · Rating 3 out of 5]

Real score 3.87. It was completely fine.

[Jean Matlock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great sexy book..recommend

[D.C. · Rating 3 out of 5]

ABOUT THE BOOK: After years of fighting on the continent, Richard Ross has finally returned to London to make peace with his father, and the erotic delights of his stepmother’s Pleasure House provide a welcome distraction for his war-weary heart. But he is shocked to encounter someone there whose resemblance to his lost love leaves him both tempted and tormented…

As a former spy, Violet LeNy has mastered the art of deception. But there is no disguising the heated passion that still burns between her and Richard, the man she once betrayed but who now is her only hope of survival. Soon she plans a scandalous game of seduction where sensual surrender is the ultimate pleasure…

REVIEW: The plot in this piece was great. It’s engaging, moves at a steady pace, and when the antagonist is finally revealed, surprising. I enjoyed watching it unfold and absolutely loved both romantic stories moving at a steady pace at the same time.

I’ve read Ms. Pearce’s pieces before but only got about three books into the series before having my attention drawn away. Picking up this piece, I now remember why. Now, before I jump into the why of giving this MS three stars, let me just say the plots overall in each of these books, are actually very good.

That being said, the writing in the stories frustrates me to the point where I almost want to stop reading. It’s not that she doesn’t write well, because obviously she does, it is more so a lot of it tends to be very passive for starters. I feel as if I’m reading and watching from afar, instead of being right in the scene with the characters. Second, a lot of the details seem to be reversed when it comes to some scenes. Ms. Pearce will give us details into something that completely doesn’t apply to the story, yet turn around on something that is actually needed, and rush through it. It was that way with every single love scene. They were extremely rushed, to the point of say, two paragraphs from the first touch and kiss, to the final act, and even then sometimes that was skipped over as well. Reading a romance, I want to see that build up, want to see the confliction of feelings, the tension and instead in this piece I got none of it and it fell flat for me as a reader. By the end of the story, I was very frustrated in the sense that I felt as if I didn’t see the connection between the characters as promised.

I do think that the plot which unfolds is again, very good and I hope that we’ll get to see more of a connection in future books. Three stars for an overall good read.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simply Scandalous

Kate Pearce
December 2012 reissue of 2013 release, Erotic Romance (1827 England)
Aphrodisia, $14.00, 320 pages, Amazon ASIN 0758269471

Grade: C
Sensuality: Burning

I remember the first time that I read Dune by Frank Herbert. It took me 150 pages to figure out who was who and what was going on. There were so many characters and intrigues and Hebert just dropped the reader right into the middle of the action to figure it out for ourselves. I sort of felt this way with Kate Pearce’s Simply Scandalous, except for the fact I ended up loving Dune.

This was the ninth book in Pearce’s House of Pleasure series and this book suffered in my hands for not having read the previous books. If I had read some of the other books, this one may have received a higher grade, but I still blame that somewhat on the author. Hook me at the beginning with something! I started this book four times before I finally settled down to read it in its entirety. If I had not promised to review the book, it would have been a DNF for me. However, having said all of that, I did begin to enjoy the story about half way through.

Richard Ross has a very unconventional family. His father is a peer and married to a woman (Richard’s stepmother) who owns a pleasure house/brothel. Her son, Christian Delorney, runs the house. His sister Emily, who is a lady of the ton, visits the house frequently and is in love with a former African slave who also works at the pleasure house. If that is not confusing enough, Richard was a spy during the Napoleonic War and is haunted by the death of fellow spy and his one true love Violet LeNy. Only it turns out that Violet did not really die in France. She faked her own death and has now turned up in England posing as the male twin of her real brother Jack Lennox.

Violet (posing as Vincent Lennox) is in England on a mission to clean up the threads of her spy career for the Royalist cause. Richard’s War Office superior Lord Keyes arranges a meeting with Richard and Jack Lennox and instructs Richard to assist Jack. When he discovers that Vincent Lennox is really Violet, he is disinclined to help. But he has his orders and grits his teeth as he prepares to do his duty...

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