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House of Croft #2
A Tainted Heart Bleeds
He’ll never forgive her deception, or the hold she still has on his heart…
Adrian Croft’s worst fear has been realized. His wife, the sweet woman who swept past his every defense, is a cunning spy working against him. Forced to play a dangerous game where one wrong move could see him destroyed, he must unravel her secrets while hunting a far more sinister threat.
Samantha knew her decision to marry her target would come at a price. Now, having lost her husband’s trust and affection, she’ll do whatever it takes to win it all back – abandon past loyalties, spill her secrets, and catch a killer. But will it be enough to undo the damage?
-One series, one couple, and the brutal challenges they must face-
If you like What Angels Fear, Silent in the Grave, and Murder on Black Swan Lake, you’ll devour Sophie Barnes’ thrilling new series.
Buy A Tainted Heart Bleeds and continue this action-packed adventure today!
Adrian Croft’s worst fear has been realized. His wife, the sweet woman who swept past his every defense, is a cunning spy working against him. Forced to play a dangerous game where one wrong move could see him destroyed, he must unravel her secrets while hunting a far more sinister threat.
Samantha knew her decision to marry her target would come at a price. Now, having lost her husband’s trust and affection, she’ll do whatever it takes to win it all back – abandon past loyalties, spill her secrets, and catch a killer. But will it be enough to undo the damage?
-One series, one couple, and the brutal challenges they must face-
If you like What Angels Fear, Silent in the Grave, and Murder on Black Swan Lake, you’ll devour Sophie Barnes’ thrilling new series.
Buy A Tainted Heart Bleeds and continue this action-packed adventure today!
442 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2024
About the author
Sophie Barnes
69 books1,757 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Sophie Barnes writes historical romance novels in which the characters break away from social expectations in their quest for happiness and love. Having written for Avon, an imprint of Harper Collins, her books have been published internationally in eight languages. With a fondness for travel, Sophie has lived in six countries, on three continents, and speaks English, Danish, French, Spanish, and Romanian with varying degrees of fluency. Ever the romantic, she married the same man three times—in three different countries and in three different dresses.
When she’s not busy dreaming up her next swoon worthy romance novel, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, practicing yoga, baking, gardening, watching romantic comedies and, of course, reading.
For all the latest releases, promotions, and exclusive story updates, subscribe to Sophie Barnes’ newsletter today: www.sophiebarnes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
October 14, 2024
I have enjoyed each book and have read them in order of publishing. I was happy to get the ARC for this book from NetGalley and read it over 2 days. The last book ended on a cliffhanger, and we picked up the story with the couple being married and Samantha's secret is out of the bag. I enjoyed Samantha having to explain to it all to Adrain. The heroine is much more than a standard Regency miss, she was trained in weapons and to spy against Napolean, but the war ended. Adrian is asked to help solve another murder of a young woman due to his solving of the murder of his sister. This might be read as a stand-alone, but I think you would miss out on a lot of the back story. Some suspension of disbelief required but the clues are laid out and I did guess the bad guy. One of my favorite guessing games in mysteries. But it wasn't till late into the book. A cliff hanger ends the book, but I can't wait to read book 3! Rate this one 4.5*
October 28, 2024
Suspenseful Regency thriller!
Trained assassin and agent Samantha Carmichael has married Adrian Croft but things are not going smoothly. Just after their marriage Adrian discovers Samantha is more than she seems. That problem is a challenge for their relationship.
Samantha realizes that Dorian Harlowe, England’s premier spymaster, sees her only as an asset. He and his wife had, along with other young girls taken her out of an orphanage and become their guardians.
Where will she land? On the side of her husband or her master?
Added to this a vicious murder has taken place. The Earl of Orendel’s daughter has been horrifically killed. Lady Eleanor will only be the first. A pattern is emerging, yet prior to their marriage Adrian and Samantha had caught the killer of young women. What’s happening? Orendel wants Croft to look into it.
Meanwhile, Chief Constable Peter Kendrick is doing all he can to bring Croft down.
Beyond this we glimpse a shadowy figure who has orchestrated many things, including murder.
I am so committed to this series I can hardly wait for the next title.
An Independently Pub. ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author.
Trained assassin and agent Samantha Carmichael has married Adrian Croft but things are not going smoothly. Just after their marriage Adrian discovers Samantha is more than she seems. That problem is a challenge for their relationship.
Samantha realizes that Dorian Harlowe, England’s premier spymaster, sees her only as an asset. He and his wife had, along with other young girls taken her out of an orphanage and become their guardians.
Where will she land? On the side of her husband or her master?
Added to this a vicious murder has taken place. The Earl of Orendel’s daughter has been horrifically killed. Lady Eleanor will only be the first. A pattern is emerging, yet prior to their marriage Adrian and Samantha had caught the killer of young women. What’s happening? Orendel wants Croft to look into it.
Meanwhile, Chief Constable Peter Kendrick is doing all he can to bring Croft down.
Beyond this we glimpse a shadowy figure who has orchestrated many things, including murder.
I am so committed to this series I can hardly wait for the next title.
An Independently Pub. ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author.
October 11, 2024
It is impossible not to be emotionally invested in this series. It is none stop heart rending, heart pounding action with layers and layers of mystery and unknown players. Thank heavens there is only one more in this series or my heart won’t be able to take it! Although, actually, I wouldn’t mind reading about Samantha’s sisters at arms in their own series!
I received an ARC of this thrilling second in book series and leaving my enthusiastic review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this thrilling second in book series and leaving my enthusiastic review voluntarily.
October 29, 2024
I had been waiting on tenterhooks for this one to come out after reading book one, A Vengeful King Rises!!! This is an interconnected series where each book is completely addictive and leaves you dangling on a cliffhanger!
I don’t want to give too much away because this series really is one of those ones you have to read to experience. That being said, the house of Croft is a Victorian crime, family drama with the family head, Mr. Croft getting himself embroiled in investigating murder mysteries… all the while he is being investigated by the police to bring down his empire! Oh, and did I mention that his wife is a secret agent who was sent in to uncover information to bring Mr. Croft down and now she has flipped sides and is working to keep his neck from the noose!
This book (and the one before) is so action packed with the murder mystery investigation, and the relationship drama between Croft and his now wife Samantha. I couldn’t put this book down, but now that I whizzed through it I am in the same place I was before anxiously awaiting the last installment and hopefully happily everafter for Croft and Samantha! They deserve it!!!
If you enjoy gritty, Victorian romance and mystery/ suspense this is a series you need to pick up! I can’t recommend it enough!
I don’t want to give too much away because this series really is one of those ones you have to read to experience. That being said, the house of Croft is a Victorian crime, family drama with the family head, Mr. Croft getting himself embroiled in investigating murder mysteries… all the while he is being investigated by the police to bring down his empire! Oh, and did I mention that his wife is a secret agent who was sent in to uncover information to bring Mr. Croft down and now she has flipped sides and is working to keep his neck from the noose!
This book (and the one before) is so action packed with the murder mystery investigation, and the relationship drama between Croft and his now wife Samantha. I couldn’t put this book down, but now that I whizzed through it I am in the same place I was before anxiously awaiting the last installment and hopefully happily everafter for Croft and Samantha! They deserve it!!!
If you enjoy gritty, Victorian romance and mystery/ suspense this is a series you need to pick up! I can’t recommend it enough!
October 27, 2024
Adrian Croft’s worst fear has been realized. His wife, the sweet woman who swept past his every defence, is a cunning spy working against him. Samantha knew her decision to marry her target would come at a price. Now, having lost her husband’s trust and affection, she’ll do whatever it takes to win it all back.
This book starts as the previous ends & Adrian & Samantha are newly married but wary of each other. Then an Earl’s daughter is brutally murdered & her father asks Adrian to investigate. This is another edge of the seat book that I found I couldn’t put down, in fact I started it mid afternoon & finished it in the early hours. I love both Adrian & Samantha & love not only the chemistry between them but also how their relationship is developing & deepening but things aren’t easy for them with secrets, intrigue & traps being laid & a mastermind pulling everyone strings. Once again the book ends on a cliff hanger so I’m impatiently awaiting the next book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
This book starts as the previous ends & Adrian & Samantha are newly married but wary of each other. Then an Earl’s daughter is brutally murdered & her father asks Adrian to investigate. This is another edge of the seat book that I found I couldn’t put down, in fact I started it mid afternoon & finished it in the early hours. I love both Adrian & Samantha & love not only the chemistry between them but also how their relationship is developing & deepening but things aren’t easy for them with secrets, intrigue & traps being laid & a mastermind pulling everyone strings. Once again the book ends on a cliff hanger so I’m impatiently awaiting the next book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
November 15, 2024
Thank you NetGalley, BookBuzz.net, and Sophie Barnes for this amazing e-ARC in exchange for a honest review.
This might sound like a hyperbole, but the moment I started reading this second book, I knew I'm going to love it so much, and I was in reading slump to begin with!
This book is the perfect combination of mystery, suspense, and love story. It was so good when I know, I could picture every scene in my head, like I was in it! The bits of misunderstanding moments were understandable and bearable, even makes me wanna rush to devour the third book!!
It's just chef's kiss kind of book, and successfully revived me from the exasperated reading slump
PLEASE PLEASE READ THIS BOOK NOW
(i mean pls go ahead pick up the first one before rush into this one)
This might sound like a hyperbole, but the moment I started reading this second book, I knew I'm going to love it so much, and I was in reading slump to begin with!
This book is the perfect combination of mystery, suspense, and love story. It was so good when I know, I could picture every scene in my head, like I was in it! The bits of misunderstanding moments were understandable and bearable, even makes me wanna rush to devour the third book!!
It's just chef's kiss kind of book, and successfully revived me from the exasperated reading slump
PLEASE PLEASE READ THIS BOOK NOW
(i mean pls go ahead pick up the first one before rush into this one)
February 24, 2025
A Tainted Heart Bleeds. My fellow readers, this is a terrific read for we readers that enjoys a good historical mystery novel every once and awhile. I certainly had a fantastic time reading this one. The book has mystery that you already aware of, but it also has wonderful characters who brings all the excitement to the story. There’s suspense that will have you anxiously contemplating who is this nefarious foe running amok through the streets of London.
This devilish foe is bringing chaos and dark destruction of mayhem to Society’s doors in the still cover of the night. What’s that you ask? No! No one can be trusted and no one should dare be alone. Oh, did I tell you that there’s a little bit of romantic interludes with our romantic married couple?
These two bring the spice to all those exuberant salsa dances between the sheets. Our married couple Adrian and Samantha Croft are simply magnificent. Their high octane relationship keeps the entertainment energized as they too collaborate so well with the plot. My interest in the book did not wane at all. As I said before - I love a good mystery novel.
The story and the characters has great interest. The pace of the story keeps the book alive and enjoyable. I had a delightful time reading this one. The writer did such a remarkable job. I give this book two snaps and a - Croft when the heck are you going to put Constable Kendrick on notice? Before Samantha does what comes natural to her? Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
This devilish foe is bringing chaos and dark destruction of mayhem to Society’s doors in the still cover of the night. What’s that you ask? No! No one can be trusted and no one should dare be alone. Oh, did I tell you that there’s a little bit of romantic interludes with our romantic married couple?
These two bring the spice to all those exuberant salsa dances between the sheets. Our married couple Adrian and Samantha Croft are simply magnificent. Their high octane relationship keeps the entertainment energized as they too collaborate so well with the plot. My interest in the book did not wane at all. As I said before - I love a good mystery novel.
The story and the characters has great interest. The pace of the story keeps the book alive and enjoyable. I had a delightful time reading this one. The writer did such a remarkable job. I give this book two snaps and a - Croft when the heck are you going to put Constable Kendrick on notice? Before Samantha does what comes natural to her? Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
December 2, 2024
Oh my goodness! What a fun read! I enjoyed it so much that went back and read the book before this one so that I had better context into what was going on. Samantha and Adrian’s story continues after Adrian receives shocking news! The adventure that follows leaves you fully engaged until the last, and you’re left wanting more. I can’t wait until the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 10, 2024
The excitement continues with Adrian Croft and Samantha. Samantha is determined to get Adrian forgiveness and earn his trust again. Her mission to get proof of her husband crimes has her rethinking if he really is a criminal? Her feelings for him and the man she is getting to know differs from what the Bow Street believes of him. As they find each other again, they also find themselves trying to solve another murder.
Love the twists and turns in this plot, more exciting than the first. But hate the cliffhangers, one just wants to keep on reading. One must really read the 1st story since this is an ongoing saga. #ATaintedHeartBleeds #TheHouseofCroft #SophieBarnes
Love the twists and turns in this plot, more exciting than the first. But hate the cliffhangers, one just wants to keep on reading. One must really read the 1st story since this is an ongoing saga. #ATaintedHeartBleeds #TheHouseofCroft #SophieBarnes
November 1, 2024
This second book in the House of Croft series begins as the first book did, with the brutal murder of a young and seemingly innocent woman.
But the circumstances, as similar as they are to the opening of A Vengeful King Rises, are not the same – except that both women, and both murders, are shrouded in secrets. Including the motivation behind them.
The murder of Adrian Croft’s sister Evie was designed to set Adrian on a path that he did not wish to walk, but the motives were concealed in the midst of a serial killer’s spree. It wasn’t personal, although the consequences were very personal to Adrian Croft.
This time, the murder is very personal. Lady Eleanor was stabbed over 50 times, up close and very personal indeed. Her murderer believed that she had betrayed him – and perhaps she had, if only in his own eyes and twisted mind. Of course, he took those too. Her eyes. As a grisly trophy.
Croft brought his sister’s killer to justice – even if no one can prove it. Which leads Lord Orendel, Lady Eleanor’s father, to ask Croft to investigate his daughter’s death and provide him a measure of that same justice – even if it can’t be admitted aloud.
It’s not a commission that Croft wants to take. He has problems of his own to deal with – also a result of the events in the first book. The police are pursuing him for his father’s crimes – and his own. The agent they set on his trail inveigled her way into his heart, his bed and his household.
He married her, and only learned of her betrayal after that fact – just as she vowed to be his in all ways. He can’t forgive, he can’t forget, he can’t trust – but he can’t force himself to set her aside, or off to the country, or into a shallow grave. As she deserves.
He has no idea that she’s about to be the saving of him. Again. It’s only a question of whether that will be enough to finally earn his trust – and to save him from the gallows.
Escape Rating A-: I started this series because it appeared to be what you’d get if C.S. Harris’ Sebastian St. Cyr series and Andrea Penrose’s Wrexford & Sloane series had a book baby. Which is very much true, as all three are set in the same Regency period, all involve solving grisly murders and all have a significant and dark romantic enemies to lovers relationship where the enmity has the potential to turn deadly even as the romance heats to boiling.
(Some reviewers have noted a resemblance to Deanna Raybourn’s Lady Julia Grey series, which I have not read – YET – but clearly need to take a look at.)
Now that I’ve read the first two books in the House of Croft trilogy, at this point I have a really, really, strong feeling that I’m oh-so-glad this is a trilogy and doesn’t go on as long as those other series.
Why, you might ask?
The reason is that the House of Croft doesn’t read like three stories that have some overarching elements. In spite of not being the same genre – AT ALL – the House of Croft reads like The Lord of the Rings in that it is ONE story divided into three parts for publishing purposes. Which, by extension, makes A Tainted Heart Bleeds the long dark night of the soul that is The Two Towers – especially the second half of that heartbreaking middle book.
So that’s all a HUGE hint that readers can’t start with this book. I think that one has to begin at the beginning with A Vengeful King Rises – and will probably join me in the proverbial bated breath waiting for the final book in the trilogy, A Ruthless Angel Weeps, in order to see how Adrian and Samantha Croft manage to get whatever it is they truly deserve – whether that’s heaven or hell or just a quick hanging.
The reason for that anticipation and all of that bated breath is that the individual books in the series are extremely and occasionally excruciating compelling, and while they DO wrap up the murder that opens each story, they DO NOT answer any of the gigantic questions hanging over the series – and our protagonists – like a whole ceiling of Swords of Damocles.
I know there is a puppet master – but I don’t even have a hint as to who that puppet master might be. And it’s driving me crazy. I NEED to know who is responsible for the hell that Adrian Croft has been put through – and more importantly – WHY he’s been put through that hell. I also hope to see someone pay, but I’m certain that Adrian and Samantha will have that well in hand by the end.
A Ruthless Angel Weeps will be coming at the end of January – and for this reader it’s not nearly soon enough!
Originally published at Reading Reality
But the circumstances, as similar as they are to the opening of A Vengeful King Rises, are not the same – except that both women, and both murders, are shrouded in secrets. Including the motivation behind them.
The murder of Adrian Croft’s sister Evie was designed to set Adrian on a path that he did not wish to walk, but the motives were concealed in the midst of a serial killer’s spree. It wasn’t personal, although the consequences were very personal to Adrian Croft.
This time, the murder is very personal. Lady Eleanor was stabbed over 50 times, up close and very personal indeed. Her murderer believed that she had betrayed him – and perhaps she had, if only in his own eyes and twisted mind. Of course, he took those too. Her eyes. As a grisly trophy.
Croft brought his sister’s killer to justice – even if no one can prove it. Which leads Lord Orendel, Lady Eleanor’s father, to ask Croft to investigate his daughter’s death and provide him a measure of that same justice – even if it can’t be admitted aloud.
It’s not a commission that Croft wants to take. He has problems of his own to deal with – also a result of the events in the first book. The police are pursuing him for his father’s crimes – and his own. The agent they set on his trail inveigled her way into his heart, his bed and his household.
He married her, and only learned of her betrayal after that fact – just as she vowed to be his in all ways. He can’t forgive, he can’t forget, he can’t trust – but he can’t force himself to set her aside, or off to the country, or into a shallow grave. As she deserves.
He has no idea that she’s about to be the saving of him. Again. It’s only a question of whether that will be enough to finally earn his trust – and to save him from the gallows.
Escape Rating A-: I started this series because it appeared to be what you’d get if C.S. Harris’ Sebastian St. Cyr series and Andrea Penrose’s Wrexford & Sloane series had a book baby. Which is very much true, as all three are set in the same Regency period, all involve solving grisly murders and all have a significant and dark romantic enemies to lovers relationship where the enmity has the potential to turn deadly even as the romance heats to boiling.
(Some reviewers have noted a resemblance to Deanna Raybourn’s Lady Julia Grey series, which I have not read – YET – but clearly need to take a look at.)
Now that I’ve read the first two books in the House of Croft trilogy, at this point I have a really, really, strong feeling that I’m oh-so-glad this is a trilogy and doesn’t go on as long as those other series.
Why, you might ask?
The reason is that the House of Croft doesn’t read like three stories that have some overarching elements. In spite of not being the same genre – AT ALL – the House of Croft reads like The Lord of the Rings in that it is ONE story divided into three parts for publishing purposes. Which, by extension, makes A Tainted Heart Bleeds the long dark night of the soul that is The Two Towers – especially the second half of that heartbreaking middle book.
So that’s all a HUGE hint that readers can’t start with this book. I think that one has to begin at the beginning with A Vengeful King Rises – and will probably join me in the proverbial bated breath waiting for the final book in the trilogy, A Ruthless Angel Weeps, in order to see how Adrian and Samantha Croft manage to get whatever it is they truly deserve – whether that’s heaven or hell or just a quick hanging.
The reason for that anticipation and all of that bated breath is that the individual books in the series are extremely and occasionally excruciating compelling, and while they DO wrap up the murder that opens each story, they DO NOT answer any of the gigantic questions hanging over the series – and our protagonists – like a whole ceiling of Swords of Damocles.
I know there is a puppet master – but I don’t even have a hint as to who that puppet master might be. And it’s driving me crazy. I NEED to know who is responsible for the hell that Adrian Croft has been put through – and more importantly – WHY he’s been put through that hell. I also hope to see someone pay, but I’m certain that Adrian and Samantha will have that well in hand by the end.
A Ruthless Angel Weeps will be coming at the end of January – and for this reader it’s not nearly soon enough!
Originally published at Reading Reality
October 7, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of this book. I’ve always liked Sophie Barnes’ books, but this one is exceptional. I was on the edge of my seat, trying to guess who was the villain, and trying to see Adrian Croft as the villain the police chief wanted him to be. It’s the first in the House of Croft series, and unfortunately, I discovered at the end, that it’s a cliffhanger. This story is so complicated, with so many potential suspects, I’ll have to take notes so that I remember who everyone is when book two is released. I wish I had it in hand now.
There were times when I wondered if there had been a previous book where some of the background of the Crofts was explained. When I posted here, I discovered there was. I wish I'd read that first. It's not that I couldn't follow this story; it's that I loved it so much, I wish I'd been introduced to it sooner. There was mention of the murder of Adrian’s sister, and Samantha being “rescued” from an orphanage by a benefactor, Dorian Harlowe, who turns out to be a spy for the Crown; he trains her and her sisters to be spies, as well. Samantha has been sent to ferret out information about Croft and his criminal activities and goes so far as to marry him to get closer to him. It’s really not surprising that she develops feelings for him and changes her allegiance, but she strives not to let the police chief or her father/boss know about her true motivations.
Samantha is a badass, and Adrian is lucky to have her as an ally, but there’s a small part of him that continues to doubt her loyalty. When he initially confronts her about her duplicity, she confesses her initial motivations but swears she would die for him now and her only desire is to protect him. He wants to believe her, and it seems as if he does, but there’s a nagging voice in the back of his head warning him she may betray him. Of course, the reader knows that she won’t because we’re privy to both of their thoughts.
Part of the reason the plot is so complicated is because, while Samantha and Adrian are working together to track down the murderer of the young girl from the beginning of the story, the police are simultaneously trying to find evidence that Croft is a criminal—and they expect Samantha to be helping uncover that evidence. She tries to thwart their efforts as best she can without making it clear she’s undermining them.
The story is tense and engaging, and subterfuge runs rampant. We still don’t know who the main villain is by the end of the story, although I have a theory. Honestly, I can’t wait to get my hands on book two because I’m dying to know what happens next!
There were times when I wondered if there had been a previous book where some of the background of the Crofts was explained. When I posted here, I discovered there was. I wish I'd read that first. It's not that I couldn't follow this story; it's that I loved it so much, I wish I'd been introduced to it sooner. There was mention of the murder of Adrian’s sister, and Samantha being “rescued” from an orphanage by a benefactor, Dorian Harlowe, who turns out to be a spy for the Crown; he trains her and her sisters to be spies, as well. Samantha has been sent to ferret out information about Croft and his criminal activities and goes so far as to marry him to get closer to him. It’s really not surprising that she develops feelings for him and changes her allegiance, but she strives not to let the police chief or her father/boss know about her true motivations.
Samantha is a badass, and Adrian is lucky to have her as an ally, but there’s a small part of him that continues to doubt her loyalty. When he initially confronts her about her duplicity, she confesses her initial motivations but swears she would die for him now and her only desire is to protect him. He wants to believe her, and it seems as if he does, but there’s a nagging voice in the back of his head warning him she may betray him. Of course, the reader knows that she won’t because we’re privy to both of their thoughts.
Part of the reason the plot is so complicated is because, while Samantha and Adrian are working together to track down the murderer of the young girl from the beginning of the story, the police are simultaneously trying to find evidence that Croft is a criminal—and they expect Samantha to be helping uncover that evidence. She tries to thwart their efforts as best she can without making it clear she’s undermining them.
The story is tense and engaging, and subterfuge runs rampant. We still don’t know who the main villain is by the end of the story, although I have a theory. Honestly, I can’t wait to get my hands on book two because I’m dying to know what happens next!
November 5, 2024
A Tainted Heart Bleeds, the second book in Sophie Barnes's gripping historical mystery series, leads the reader on another convoluted, complicated tale, featuring morally grey anti-hero, Adrian Croft, and his new wife, Samantha, now a turned secret agent. It is well-written, if a bit dark, graphic (warning: no gory details spared for the faint of heart) and gritty. No one is quite who they seem, everyone is a liar and has blood on their hands in one way or another - except perhaps the victims themselves of the violent crimes portrayed. There are so many moving parts to this series that the reader becomes intrigued with whether Barnes will be able to pull it off in the end and is drawn to keep reading to find out the fate of not just Adrian and Samantha, but all their supporting characters too, who are just as "tainted" as they are - with the possible exception of Elks, the butler...so far.
With so many points of view though, it does get somewhat confusing at times as to what is truly happening, both in the mystery of the book itself and in the frame of the larger series. I suspect the biggest betrayal of all is still in the offing for this couple. And as I mentioned above - no one is truly innocent, except perhaps the victims themselves, and even then, only to a lesser degree. It isn't a feel-good read, albeit riveting, and it is like watching the train crash in slow motion but not being able to look away. It ends on another cliffhanger, and I suspect each book in the series will do so until the last book comes to an end. As such, I would not recommend that this book be read out of order or by itself; details from the first book are key to understanding and following the arc of this book.
If dark, gritty, cloak-and-dagger tales are your jam (and you have a strong stomach and don't mind ), then I would venture this is definitely a series you can sink your teeth into - like a blood-thirsty hell hound of the night!
I received an Advance Reader Copy of A Tainted Heart Bleeds, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
With so many points of view though, it does get somewhat confusing at times as to what is truly happening, both in the mystery of the book itself and in the frame of the larger series. I suspect the biggest betrayal of all is still in the offing for this couple. And as I mentioned above - no one is truly innocent, except perhaps the victims themselves, and even then, only to a lesser degree. It isn't a feel-good read, albeit riveting, and it is like watching the train crash in slow motion but not being able to look away. It ends on another cliffhanger, and I suspect each book in the series will do so until the last book comes to an end. As such, I would not recommend that this book be read out of order or by itself; details from the first book are key to understanding and following the arc of this book.
If dark, gritty, cloak-and-dagger tales are your jam (and you have a strong stomach and don't mind ), then I would venture this is definitely a series you can sink your teeth into - like a blood-thirsty hell hound of the night!
I received an Advance Reader Copy of A Tainted Heart Bleeds, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
October 22, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Sophie Barnes for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for A Tainted Heart Bleeds coming out October 29, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Adrian Croft’s worst fear has been realized. His wife, the sweet woman who swept past his every defense, is a cunning spy working against him. Forced to play a dangerous game where one wrong move could see him destroyed, he must unravel her secrets while hunting a far more sinister threat.
Samantha knew her decision to marry her target would come at a price. Now, having lost her husband’s trust and affection, she’ll do whatever it takes to win it all back – abandon past loyalties, spill her secrets, and catch a killer. But will it be enough to undo the damage?
I didn’t realize this is the second book in the series. I’ll have to go back and read the first book. I really loved Victorian mysteries. I don’t know what happened in the first book, but I loved this book! I actually really love the secret spy married to the enemy plotline. There were a few twists and turns in this book. Some things surprised me, which is really good. I loved the action. I love Adrian and Samantha’s characters! There was a lot going on. I’m definitely checking out the next book!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Victorian mysteries!
Adrian Croft’s worst fear has been realized. His wife, the sweet woman who swept past his every defense, is a cunning spy working against him. Forced to play a dangerous game where one wrong move could see him destroyed, he must unravel her secrets while hunting a far more sinister threat.
Samantha knew her decision to marry her target would come at a price. Now, having lost her husband’s trust and affection, she’ll do whatever it takes to win it all back – abandon past loyalties, spill her secrets, and catch a killer. But will it be enough to undo the damage?
I didn’t realize this is the second book in the series. I’ll have to go back and read the first book. I really loved Victorian mysteries. I don’t know what happened in the first book, but I loved this book! I actually really love the secret spy married to the enemy plotline. There were a few twists and turns in this book. Some things surprised me, which is really good. I loved the action. I love Adrian and Samantha’s characters! There was a lot going on. I’m definitely checking out the next book!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Victorian mysteries!
September 25, 2024
Wow, I am blown away by this series. Everything happens so fast and there are so many misdirections that you do not know who is the real bad guy or who is being set up. I did figure out the villain in this story and it is a doozy. Read and find out who they are, you won’t be disappointed. But, there are a lot of other things going on. Adrian and Samantha have to delve deep to figure out what the heck is going on and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time reading this book. I stayed up way to late just to finish it and again….nope, not letting you in on what happens. Sophie gives us a story of murder, deception, and love so if you like all of these storylines run out and get this series. I love the no pulling punches with anything in these stories. They are gritty and hard-hitting. Can Adrian and Samantha survive? This is one of the best series I have read and I have read a lot of books.
October 1, 2024
Oh Adrian and your bleeding heart!! This book was even more exciting than book 1, which was at a high bar already. The book starts of with a bang with a vicious murder of a Lady. Additionally, Adrian is aware of Samantha's deception. He does not trust her anymore and definitely does not want to love her. The big confrontation of the deception happens in the beginning, so we actually see some relationship building between Adrian and Samantha through the book.
They are both racing against time, and she to protect him, him to find the murderer. It is a bit chaotic, with lots of plotlines happening in tandem. Stanton from book 1 is out to punish Adrian for the death of his son Newton, Harlowe and Kendrick and some higher mysterious power is out to take out Adrian forever, there's a child exploitation ring that is likely one of the plots of the next book, there's the main murder mystery, there's a beginning of a coup by Adrian's men and an unscrupulous Duke.
Yes, that's a lot but not difficult to follow, and the thrill of the chase comes through well in the pages.
Thrilling, fast-paced,and different!! Book 2 ends on a cliffhanger. I cannot wait to see what is in store for book 3.
#netgalley #ATaintedHeartBleeds
They are both racing against time, and she to protect him, him to find the murderer. It is a bit chaotic, with lots of plotlines happening in tandem. Stanton from book 1 is out to punish Adrian for the death of his son Newton, Harlowe and Kendrick and some higher mysterious power is out to take out Adrian forever, there's a child exploitation ring that is likely one of the plots of the next book, there's the main murder mystery, there's a beginning of a coup by Adrian's men and an unscrupulous Duke.
Yes, that's a lot but not difficult to follow, and the thrill of the chase comes through well in the pages.
Thrilling, fast-paced,and different!! Book 2 ends on a cliffhanger. I cannot wait to see what is in store for book 3.
#netgalley #ATaintedHeartBleeds
December 4, 2024
A Tainted Heart Bleeds is the 2nd installment in the house of Croft Series. Adrian Croft and his wife, Samantha are having trust issues which impacts their marriage. After Samantha assures Adrian that she can be trusted to have his best interests at heart they work together to track a killer before he kills more innocent people. Though at the end of this installment it appears the current murders have been solved, we have to wait until the next installment to find out what is happening with Adrian and Samantha. If you like mystery, murder, mayhem and a plot that will keep you guessing whodunnit and why, you should read this series. I am hooked on it and can’t wait to learn what happens in the next episode.
I received an ARC from Bookcave and Sophie Barnes and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from Bookcave and Sophie Barnes and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2024
A Tainted Heart Bleeds by Sophie Barnes is book two in this series concerning Adrian Croft. I haven’t read book one yet, but this actually stands well on it own. What I needed to know was shared without me thinking I had missed important facts. It is a complicated story but one that I was able to still follow easily. By chapter five the horrendous murder has taken place, Samantha’s duplicity is exposed, and the hunt is on.
Well written, dark period novel that is difficult not to keep reading. I found myself saying just one more chapter many times. Suspenseful, intriguing, with twisty elements, and oh so good. Now I want to read book one not so much to see how Samantha won Adrian’s heart but to see when and how he won her heart. I am a fan of Pam Lecky and Irina Shapiro. Now I am adding Sophie Barnes to my list. You will definitely want to do so too.
Well written, dark period novel that is difficult not to keep reading. I found myself saying just one more chapter many times. Suspenseful, intriguing, with twisty elements, and oh so good. Now I want to read book one not so much to see how Samantha won Adrian’s heart but to see when and how he won her heart. I am a fan of Pam Lecky and Irina Shapiro. Now I am adding Sophie Barnes to my list. You will definitely want to do so too.
November 29, 2024
When a strong minded, capable women sets her mind to do something like Samantha did, and achieves it as well as changing her mindset along the way because her husband turns out to be not what she expected, but someone she can rely on, it makes for a great read.
Together, after working out their differences, they work together to uncover plots against themselves and solve various murders. Of course there is the usual doubts and suspicions, but Samanatha appears to be someone easily takes it all in her stride.
I had not read the first in this series but it in no way detracks from the read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Together, after working out their differences, they work together to uncover plots against themselves and solve various murders. Of course there is the usual doubts and suspicions, but Samanatha appears to be someone easily takes it all in her stride.
I had not read the first in this series but it in no way detracks from the read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 24, 2024
This is a deliriously wonderful story. The author has outdone herself in this second installment of this series. Adrian Croft is a magnificent character. His wife Samantha continues to surprise him and readers. The plot is focused on solving a heinous murder. There is also strain and stress in their marriage. The depth of the story is interesting and intriguing. The characters are full bodied. Readers will enjoy the many surprises as they quickly turn the pages. I am eagerly awaiting the next story in the series.
October 27, 2024
This is book 2 and they really do need to be read in order as I have done. This is due to each book ending on a cliff hanger. I usually don't like it when this happens but this series is so good. Everything happens at a fast pace with lots of twist turns and red herring making for quite a complicated situation. I did figure out the villain in this story and it was quite late on. All in all a great story that kept me gripped to the end and I can't wait for the next book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 18, 2025
The series continues with another young lady's murder. Adrian is requested to investigate by her father. He longs for the closeness he and Samantha first had in solving the previous murders, but doesn't trust his wife after finding out her secret. Samantha must regain his trust to save their marriage. Helping Adrian look for leads in the young lady's murder, puts them both in danger. They must have proof of their last suspect. Again they are separated by betrayal.
Violence.
Mild descriptive sex.
Violence.
Mild descriptive sex.
September 6, 2024
What an amazing book! The prequel was great, so my expectations were really high. They’ve been surpassed by this book. Descriptions are to the point, but also make you feel as if you’re there. I could hardly put the book down (and hated that life got in the way of reading faster!). This book comes highly recommended if you love suspense, mystery and a dash of romance. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
February 7, 2025
I enjoyed this one more than the first so maybe a 4.5. I found Adrian and Samantha more developed and sympathetic, plus more romance.
However, still a cliff hanger ending. (I immediately downloaded the next.) A young woman has been brutally murdered in her bedroom. Adrian is asked to investigate since he solved the murder of his sister.
However, still a cliff hanger ending. (I immediately downloaded the next.) A young woman has been brutally murdered in her bedroom. Adrian is asked to investigate since he solved the murder of his sister.
August 28, 2024
This was even more thrilling than the first book. I was enthralled with the mystery, although just once can the men be the ones so brutally murdered. Asking for a friend. I found I enjoyed the dynamic between Adrian and Samantha much more this time, it felt a little more natural. Their romance did not feel as forced, while at the same time their developing relationship felt essential to the story. It is so fascinating to read mysteries set in the Regency period, without all the advances of more modern times the resulting investigation is fascinating. This book was good set up for the next story. I am so curious as to where this story will lead, so I cannot wait for the next book.
October 29, 2024
This second entry in the series is just as exciting as the first! Not only is there a war between Croft and Samantha, but there is another gruesome murder of a lady. The government is still trying to entrap Croft but it seems there are more unknown players in this game than anyone is aware of.
August 25, 2024
MORE PLEASE!!! Thank you so much, Sophie Barnes, for allowing me the chance to read this book. After the first one, I knew this one was gonna be good. Wow, what a roll-coaster ride!! Samantha and Adrian's marriage started out rocky with a lot of bumps in the road. Once things smoothed out, their hunt for a killer heated up, with an explosive outcome that couldn't have ended any other way. The result you'll have to find out for yourself, but I will say this for the ending that left me hanging: Bow Street has no idea what they unleashed!! Thank you, Sophie, for helping me love Regency again!! Like the first one, I wish I could've given this one more than 5 stars! Highly recommend it!!
October 3, 2024
Loved reading the mesmerizing and captivating story. Samantha continues to try to regain her husband's, Adrian's, trust, and Adrian has another gruesome murder to solve. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a must read riveting story full of twists and turns. Can't wait to read the next story in the series by the phenomenally talented author, Sophie Barnes!
October 23, 2024
This is the second book in the series, and I recommend that they be read in order since each book has parts that continue to the next in the series.
Adrian Croft is married to Samantha, but can he trust her?
When a new murder comes his way, he enlists her help with solving the case.
This is a gritty, gruesome, highly entertaining story, with a lot of interesting characters, plot twists and secondary stories throughout.
I am thoroughly enjoying this series and can't wait to see if Adrian and Samantha can resolve their differences.
Adrian Croft is married to Samantha, but can he trust her?
When a new murder comes his way, he enlists her help with solving the case.
This is a gritty, gruesome, highly entertaining story, with a lot of interesting characters, plot twists and secondary stories throughout.
I am thoroughly enjoying this series and can't wait to see if Adrian and Samantha can resolve their differences.
October 4, 2024
Review: Really good writing sums up this first installment of a series yet to come. I enjoyed the story line that moved with alacrity while developing solid characterization. Samantha is a bit too much at times, what with her constant swooning while being oh so deadly at hand to hand combat. A bit funny that.
Adrian steals the show for me. He beats a hard brow in the mean streets of 19th century London. The exact "When" is uncertain, but may be prior to the industrial revolution.
The ending is not one but that can be a good thing.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
Adrian steals the show for me. He beats a hard brow in the mean streets of 19th century London. The exact "When" is uncertain, but may be prior to the industrial revolution.
The ending is not one but that can be a good thing.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
July 12, 2025
Action Packed and Suspenseful
What an incredible second installment of the House of Croft series. The action never ends and the uncertainty and tension between the characters and their dilemmas is riveting. Eager to continue in the series to see what happens next with Adrian and Samantha!
What an incredible second installment of the House of Croft series. The action never ends and the uncertainty and tension between the characters and their dilemmas is riveting. Eager to continue in the series to see what happens next with Adrian and Samantha!
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