When Lady Honoria Ardeerton, the sister of the Duke of Pelham, sneaks into her brother’s masquerade and meets the irresistible Marcus Kirkland, the Earl of Trafford, her intentions are crystal clear: one night of pleasure with no names. But their fiery passion spirals into a situation that intertwines their destinies when they’re compromised, leaving Honoria's carefully spun web of secrets on the brink of unraveling. As hidden longings and scandalous truths threaten to consume them, Honoria grapples with a revelation that could shatter them both. At the same time, Marcus is undeterred in his quest to claim Honoria’s heart.
When Honoria’s path leads her to feign love for another to safeguard Marcus and her family’s honor, the stakes become insurmountably high. Will Honoria’s secret doom Marcus’s love or will the bonds of the heart prove unbreakable?
Janna MacGregor was born and raised in the bootheel of Missouri. She credits her darling mom for introducing her to the happily-ever-after world of romance novels. Janna writes stories where compelling and powerful heroines meet and fall in love with their equally matched heroes. She is the mother of triplets and lives in Kansas City with her very own dashing rogue, and two smug, but not surprisingly, perfect pugs. She loves to hear from readers.
This is my 15th book by Janna MacGregor. I started reading her in 2020 and I really love her stories. She has good writing, her characters are great and the sex is pretty good.
This was such a fun read. I love the brothers best friend and sister tropes. I loved Honoria and Marcus. I love that instant connection they had. I hate that in those days women feel like they can't talk to anyone about issues and that they think they have to solve them by themselves. I loved Dane and Pippa's characters too. I imagine their stories are next in the series. Can't wait to read those. Overall a really good read.
I loved this unconventional romance! Honoria and Marcus’s relationship was so heartwarming and lovely. One of the things I love the most about Janna’s books is her exploration of vulnerability in the MMC as well as the FMC. The hero in this story is relatable and realistic and his unwavering devotion is absolutely swoonworthy! Read this if you enjoy strong-minded heroines, found family, pining heroes and intimate scenes that scorch the pages!
I honestly feel like I must’ve read a different book to everybody else because I was utterly unimpressed.
The story managed to be overdramatic, and yet still boring. Obviously my opinion only, but I felt it was not very well written and full of cliches. I started skimming after two chapters and the fact I slogged my way through the entire book I felt was heroic on my part. It was painful going. The histrionics from all the main characters along with the moustache twirling villains was too much.
The heroine was overdramatic and ridiculous, the hero was a sap. Her brother, the Duke, was embarrassing with the constant use of the word Darling in relation to his sisters and then his crying.. I mean I’m all for a sensitive man, but it was so out of character for a man of the time he was ridiculous. You can clearly see the next book is going to be about the brother and - get this - the governess for adults.
It was ridiculously overpriced too.
But yet, I acknowledge that clearly a lot of other people loved the book, I don’t know what to tell you. 🤷🏻♀️
This is the first book in a new series about the Duke of Pelham, his two sisters and his two best friends. It is a beautiful love story, with a couple of villains thrown in to provide conflict.
The Duke of Pelham was not a nice man. He was a cruel husband and father. He got it into his head when his oldest daughter, Honoria, was not his, because she was not accomplished like her siblings and was awkward. He banished her from their home, sending her to a boarding school. He announced to his wife that he was going to write a letter disavowing her as his child, to be delivered to her groom the day before her wedding. She never saw either of her parents again, and swore that she would never tell anyone that she loved them. Years passed and once her older brother, who loved and looked out for his sisters, became the duke, she refused to go to their London home but stayed on at their country estate. There she managed the manor, estate and tenants, loved by the household and the tenants. One night she sneaks out to a masquerade, to have one night of passion with a stranger. The stranger is Marcus Kirkland, the sixth Earl of Trafford and one of her brother's best friends. But they had never met so did not recognize each other. When she demands that they do not tell each other their names or anything personal to the other, he agrees. He is mesmerized by her from the first time he saw her and will do whatever she says so he can keep seeing her. For the first time, she thinks that maybe marriage could happen, if she can only get her hands on that bloody letter.
Lovely characters, an engaging plot and playful banter in and outside the bedroom, make this a charming romance. I was gifted with an advanced reader's copy as part of the author's review team. This is my unbiased, honest and voluntary review.
I want my night with an Earl. Especially if it’s with the fine looking Marcus Kirkland. Some may consider him a rogue, but when he’s with his Nora, he’s a gentleman in every sense of the word. Oooo. Girls Marcus has stolen my heart. I don’t believe that I noticed any other men in the book. This man consumed the whole story with his masculine, smooth, irresistible self. I couldn’t help, but hope that Marcus and Nora would kiss or something. The way the story reads from the beginning, it was like they were meant to be. I thought the story / the plot was written exceptionally well. The story read so easily for me. The writer didn’t miss a step with keeping me entertained with the most romantic courtship there is, in a Historical Romance novel. Everything was explained with wonderful visionary details. Hands down the plot was specifically written for Honoria with Marcus being the added bonus. The store was easy for me to read. I felt very comfortable reading all the exciting moments and the hard moments. The parents are a pill to swallow. I loved the book and I’m definitely looking forward to the next story. I give this book two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
When Lady Honoria Ardeerton, the sister of Dane the Duke of Pelham, sneaks into her brother’s masquerade and meets the irresistible Marcus Kirkland, the Earl of Trafford, her intentions are crystal clear: one night of pleasure with no names. But their fiery passion spirals into a situation that intertwines their destinies when they’re compromised, leaving Honoria's carefully spun web of secrets on the brink of unravelling. The start of a new series & What a start! Brilliant characters, a well paced story, sizzling chemistry & a love which grows deeper & deeper. I loved everything about it especially Noria who was one strong but tortured woman, my heart bled for her several times throughout the book & I sobbed at the epilogue when she saw Antonio. I also loved Marcus who was toe curlingly gorgeous & boy did he fall hard & fast for Noria – I adored their journey to a HEA. I also loved Dane, Pippa, Grace & Hugh & I hope they feature in future books. Roll on book two My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I love the first book in a new series! The author brought witty banter, a loving family, friendship and romance in great form. Honoria never knew the love of her parents but she knew her siblings loved her. Something was hanging over her head and she tried to outwit it, but it hit its mark instead. I love the twist of the story and the two epilogues!
Lady Honoria Ardeerton, wants one night of passion without strings, so she sneaks into the masquerade being held by her brother (The Duke of Pelham) in order to find a willing partner. Who she finds instead is Marcus Kirkland, the Earl of Trafford, who just so happens to be her brother's best friend. Their meeting leads to further clandestine meetings where neither of them disclose their identities, all accumulating into a night of passion where the morning brings discovery and scandal. Marcus's charity can not stand a whiff of scandal and Honoria finds herself confronting the secrets of her past in order to save the man she has unknowingly fallen for.
Janna MacGregor writes a heart wrenching prologue. Nearly every time she breaks my heart a little with the pain/loss that one or more of the characters experience. Which sets me up to root undeniably for the HEA that is to come. The parting of a young Honoria and her brother a young Dane (the future Duke of Pelham) nearly had me in tears. This moment perfectly showcases how much Pelham's love for his sister's was showcased in the previous series. And how much it made me feel intrigued by his character. I am so glad he and his sister's are getting their HEAs in this series.
I love a Janna MacGregor MMC and Marcus truly stole the show in this novel. It was not hard to fall head over heels in fictional love with him from chapter 1. His empathy and need to protect those he believed to be his found family was heartwarming. How the loss of his family at such a young age and the finding of his friends saved him and furthermore how he wanted to create a charity in support of kids in similar situations to his made me love him all the more. I adore stories where the male friendships are showcased and Janna always writes hers so well. I definitely feel like Marcus fell first and when he found out Honoria's true identity how he was all in to make her his wife and spend the rest of his days loving her. Although he needed to convince her he was perfect for the job.
Oh Honoria/Honor/Noria. How I wanted to just hug her and champion her and defend her. Her character was one who experienced such heartbreak and fear of her loved ones being hurt by the hatred of her by their father that I just wanted her the freedom of loving withing fear of even more loss. I loved that we got to see the side of her that was built on fear and how it warred with the side that would protect her siblings and those she loved at all costs. The costs being the loss of her own happiness. It showcased a character who felt like she wasn't always strong, but who definitely was.
I also adored the secondary characters in this novel. Particularly the staff that took care of the Pelham estate and who loved Honoria and treated her as she deserved to be treated. Her connection to the butler being the only one who knew all her secrets and would do anything to help aid her made it feel like she wasn't completely alone.
All-in-all I loved A Simple Seduction. I loved Marcus and Honoria's story and I really loved their characters. I look forward to reading the rest of the series! Thank you to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. Once I started reading it was hard for me to put the book down!
Author Janna MacGregor never, ever, ever disappoints, and A Simple Seduction, the first in the Millionaires of Mayfair series keeps up her string of successes. Your heartstrings will be tugged from the very first page, where thirteen-year-old Honoria is banished from her father’s home because she’s not really her father’s daughter but rather the product of a liaison between her mother and another man. She overhears the Duke of Pelham tell her mother he doesn’t want to see Honoria ever again, that he will send her away to school and provide for her keep, but that he is also writing a letter outlining the scandalous details which is to be presented to the man she is to marry – ruining her reputation and her life at that time, and doing the same to her siblings, by the way. No one can cross or overrule the Duke, but her older brother Dane runs out to see her off and vows that when he becomes the Duke of Pelham he will come and get her and she, Dane and younger sister Pippa will be together again.
The next we see of Honoria is eleven hears later. Dane is now the Duke of Pelham, as both parents have passed away. He kept his promise to bring Honoria home, but she is nearly a recluse. She refuses to go to London, to live in the family home there, or be part of society and the ton. She is content to remain at their estate in the country and tend to household matters. Nothing Dane nor Pippa can say will change her mind. She has not shared the shame of her birth with anyone and does not intend to; but she has enlisted help to find that letter her hateful father wrote and intends to destroy it before it can ruin her brother and sister.
Even though she is content with her life, she has dreamed of more, and when Dane hosts a masquerade she decides to have her one-and-only fling and attend the ball in disguise, seduce a man for a night, and then return to her life, still hoping to find that letter. She feels so unworthy our heart breaks again for her.
Sounds pretty simple and straightforward, doesn’t it? Not so fast. Leave it to author MacGregor to provide an abundance of fun, laughter, sweetness, steaminess, heroes and villains based on this premise. Honoria does meet a charming man at the masquerade. They agree not to exchange identities and just enjoy the night. But then enjoy the night becomes let’s enjoy a few days because they are truly enjoying themselves. What if’s flit through their minds, as well as wild speculation as to who the other might be – high born, low born, titled, farmer, part of a serving staff – they go on and on but the big reveal will catch you by surprise. Pretty hilarious, except that this is Regency England and Honoria is now dishonored. Her family might also be dishonored. And guess what? Feelings, spoken or not, have developed between these two. Honoria is at times too clever for her own good and creates additional problems. Marcus is determined to press on. Honoria is still looking for that letter.
A Simple Seduction is an enchanting story. It’s full of the horrors of the mores and rules of that time but also full of love and hope and loyalty and family. It’s the perfect beginning to what promises to be a perfect series. We get a glimpse of who might star in the next two books and I am looking forward to them. I recommend this book without hesitation. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Lady Honoria “Noria” Ardeerton is the eldest sister of the Duke of Pelham. She sneaks into her brother’s masquerade to experience one night of pleasure. Noria meets Marcus. However, she never expected him to be her brother’s best friend. Or for them to be caught in a compromising position. Noria fears an old family shame could harm his charity if she marries him. Can Noria find the strength to exorcise the past? Or will it have the power to destroy everything that she loves? Marcus Kirkland, the Earl of Trafford, wants to find a wife who can help him with his charity. He never expected to find his ideal bride at his best friend’s annual masquerade. Marcus is convinced Noria is perfect for him, but she insists on a one-time, no attachment affair. After their one night together, he discovers his lover’s identity. Now he must convince Noria to marry him to save both of their reputations. Can Marcus soothe all of Honoria’s fears enough to marry him? Or will this jeopardize his friendship with Pelham? I am still undecided on my feelings for Honoria. There were moments when she aggravated or annoyed me. I understand her reservations, especially on the marriage front. Anyone would. However, she did some things that came off as foolish. What I like the most about Honoria is her good heart. She enjoyed helping her brother look after his tenants. Honoria even treated servants with respect and kindness. Marcus has a heart of gold! I adore the charity that he has started. Marcus intends to help children who were like him, orphaned young without relatives. Unlike his peers, he does not want to ignore their plight. I like the patience that Marcus showed Honoria. Deep down, he knew there was a reason for her reluctance. Marcus tried everything to overcome her fears. He refused to give up on her. A SIMPLE SEDUCTION is the first book in Janna MacGregor’s brand-new historical romance series, MILLIONAIRES OF MAYFAIR. My wish came true! I had hoped the author would write a series about the Ardeerton siblings. Pelham intrigued me in HOW TO BEST A MARQUESS (the last book in THE WIDOW RULES series). I especially wanted to see how he would react to his sisters’ love interests. He did not disappoint me! I also adore the close bond the three Ardeerton siblings share. I have a feeling I know who Pelham’s heroine will be. His book will be a second chance trope, my least favorite. Which dims my enthusiasm. I wonder if Pippa will be paired with Ravencroft. Their book I will anticipate.
A Simple Seduction by Janna MacGregor, book one in her Millionaires of Mayfair series, is full of drama, sadness, love, chemistry, hurt, action, secrets, adventure, history, family issues and the Ton. Lady Honoria “Noria” Ardeerton, the eldest sister of the Duke of Pelham, sneaks into her brother’s masquerade to experience one night of pleasure. Noria meets Marcus; never expecting him to be her brother’s best friend or for them to be caught in a compromising position.
Marcus Kirkland, the Earl of Trafford, is looking for a wife who can help him with his charity; never expecting to find his ideal bride at his best friend’s annual masquerade. Marcus is convinced Noria is perfect for him, but she insists she just wants a night of pleasure. Together they share a kiss and decide to spend time together. After a night together, he asks her to marry him but she refuses. When her brother, Dane, catches them together, Marcus again asks her to marry him to save both of their reputations; feeling pressured by her brother she agrees.
Noria fears a family shame the old Duke hurled at her years ago when she was just eight years old. His scheme could ruin her life forever if it ever came to light; much like anything she ever loved. If she marries Marcus it could ruin him and destroy his charity once revealed. Noria will need to find the strength, courage, and logic to stand up to this blackmail and fight for her chance of happiness and love with Marcus and hope that he will still want her when this secret is revealed. Add in some intrigue, a villain of an Earl who wants her money, his mother, and the Ton for more excitement.
My heart totally went out to Honoria for all she endured in her childhood. What a despicable person the old Duke of Pelham was. Her own mother was relatively worthless, only thinking of herself and not the welfare of her children. I adored the close bond the three Ardeerton siblings share, especially the fact that Dane and sister Pippa have had Noria’s back, standing her, throughout her life. Marcus also grabbed my heart with the story of his childhood, but at least he grew fast friends with Pelham and Ravenscroft at school so he wasn't totally alone, as Noria was.
Ms. MacGregor wrote a truly heartfelt story of a fiercely independent woman whose decision to attend her brother's masquerade party disguised as Venus in search of just one night of passion set the ball rolling in this tale of two people who have lived most of their lives without love and how they set about finding that love with each other. The romance is quiet spicy and the characters were so real you could feel their emotions. If secret identities, forbidden love, and a story where he falls first sounds good to you, then A Simple Seduction is perfect for you.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This is one of those call-in-sick-I'm-not-coming-to-work-today books. I was drawn into the story from the very beginning and it did not let up until the end. I laughed, I cheered, I gasped, and even shed a few tears. It had everything I love in a romance; a handsome hero with a sense of honor and is trying to make a difference, a heroine that is beautiful, witty, but thinks she's undeserving of love--her story was heartbreaking--antagonists that needed a good old fashioned facer, and wonderful secondary characters. These elements and the solid plot had me whizzing toward the end that was absolutely splendiferous. It couldn't have had a better conclusion.
A bit about the story:
Honoria is nearing 25 years old and knows marriage is not going to happen for her, for a big reason that you have to read the book to find out. But that doesn't mean she can't experience one night of passion with a stranger and no attachments. She dresses up and sneaks into her brother's masquerade ball and meets a handsome man and decides he's the one. What she doesn't know is that he is her brother's best friend.
Marcus is immediately enamored with the mystery woman. He found out in a rather rude way. He'd been thinking of marrying anyway, so why not her? Lots of reasons. But he is tenacious. He sees qualities in her that she didn't see in herself. He appreciated her willingness to help others, to spare others, and dare I say, to explore uncharted waters...yes, things got pretty darn steamy. He not only thrived on it, he encouraged it.
The chemistry between Marcus and Noria flew from the screen. There were secret touches, secret kisses, clandestine meetings that singed my fingers as I turned the pages, but there was so much emotion too. They both deserved a happily ever after.
Not this has anything to do with the review, but Marcus had long hair as did at least one other male secondary character. I miss that trait in romances these days and hope Ms. MacGregor may start a trend in bringing it back.
*I did not call in sick to work to read this stunning book, but that doesn't mean I didn't want to.
I loved this start to the Millionaires of Mayfair series! I have been so curious about Pelham and his two sisters after we briefly met them in How to Best a Marquess. I remember thinking how mysterious I thought Honoria was, and of course I wanted to learn all about Pelham.
My heart totally went out to Honoria for all she endured in her childhood. What a despicable person the old Duke of Pelham was! And her own mother was relatively worthless, only thinking of herself and not the welfare of her children.
Marcus also grabbed my heart with the story of his childhood, but at least he grew fast friends with Pelham and Ravenscroft at school so he wasn't totally alone, as Honoria was.
Janna crafted a truly heartfelt story of a fiercely independent woman whose decision to attend her brother's masquerade party disguised as Venus in search of just one night of passion set the ball rolling in this tale of two people who have lived most of their lives without love and how they set about finding that love with each other. All while Honoria tries desperately to circumvent a cut direct the old Duke lobbed at her all those years ago when she was just eight years old. His machinations could ruin her life forever if it ever came to light.
I truly loved the characters of Marcus and Honoria. The more we learn about them, the more obvious it became that they were perfect for each other. And I loved seeing the rare personal side of Pelham, which he only shows to his sisters. I am so excited for Pippa's story next, as the flirtations between her and Ravenscroft were a delight to witness. And Pelham and The Governess? Oh boy, that one is going to be so fun! There were many outstanding side characters, and also a few deplorable ones that I hope get some serious comeuppance in the future.
When Lady Honoria “Honor” Davies Ardeerton, daughter of the Duke of Ardeerton, was thirteen-years old, her drunk father yelled at her mother, exposing a dreadful secret; that Honor was, in truth, a bastard. Eleven years later, Honor is all grown up at twenty-four years old, looking desperately to see whether she truly is a bastard. When Dane announces that he plans to rush off to London, begging Honor to join him, without having his annual masquerade ball at the Jolly Rooster, which Dane also owns. Honor decides secretly to go without Dane knowing. Honor is dressed so secretly that Dane doesn’t recognize her and meets Dane’s best friend, Marcus Kirkland, sixth Earl of Trafford. Marcus is entranced by the mysterious Venus and wants to get to know her, slowly falling in love with Honor and she with him. Honor wants Marcus to seduce her before she resigns herself to a spinster life. I really do enjoy all that Ms. Janna Macgregor writes about a mistaken Regency historical romance! Luckily, this book is written very well and so easy to get caught up in! The setting is easily visualized with no problems! The book moves quite seamlessly despite many wonderful twists and turns. At times, I don’t understand Honor’s reticence and apprehension, in first of all, telling Marcus who she really is and why she can’t marry him. I mean he is the perfect package and I felt sorry for him. So sure, I was yelling at her because he’s just so fantastic! In fact, he’s just the absolute best so that I couldn’t help but add him to my ever-growing list of book boyfriends. So yes, I did have a little book crush on him even though I wanted Honor to treat him better. Of course, I look forward to Pippa’s book and, hopefully, Dane will fall for Lady Grace because there is definitely a history between the two, so they need a happily ever after too!
𝓐 𝓢𝓲𝓶𝓹𝓵𝓮 𝓢𝓮𝓭𝓾𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷: 𝓜𝓲𝓵𝓵𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓪𝓲𝓻𝓮𝓼 𝓸𝓯 𝓜𝓪𝔂𝓯𝓪𝓲𝓻 𝓑𝓸𝓸𝓴 1 by @jannamacgregor A sensual and captivating story filled with:
✔ Strangers to Lovers ✔ Brothers Friend ✔ He Falls First ✔ Secret Identity ✔ Forbidden Love ✔ Family Secrets ✔ Blackmail ✔ A masquerade ball ✔ A moonlight garden ✔ A case of secret identities
☕🔥🔥🔥🔥 - Scorchin Hot Read Caution, may lead to unexpected need to turn on the A/C. So steamy the pages ignite. May include a dash of Erotic elements or elude to further exploration of desire and need.
Lady Honoria Ardeerton has spent her life haunted by a childhood filled with hate and contempt from the one person who should’ve loved her unconditionally. Will she be find the one thing that could protect her family or will her secret ruin them forever?
Marrcus Kirkland finds himself entwined in a case of mistaken identity, a fear of losing everything he's worked for, and the possibility of destorying a friendship in the blink of an eye.
Rumors, challenges, deception, love, sin, and mischief are ready to make way for madness and memories. With so much at stake will Marcus and Honoria finally have the courage to fight for what they want? Will friendships be cast aside, hearts broken, and a chance at love be a distant memory?
Once again Janna takes you on a journey that is filled with all the feels. It's time to find out who is behind the threats, who will declare their love, who will do anything to protect those they care about, and uncover passion that will hopefully burn hot and bright for years to come.
This historical romance that has so many characters to fall in love with. I can't wait to find out what happens next.
I received an advance reader copy from Janna MacGregbor for an honest and fair review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A Simple Seduction by Janna MacGregor is the first book in a new series called the Millionaires of Mayfair. The series focuses on a family (brother, two sisters) and each novel follows one member to their happily ever after. This novel focuses on Lady Honoria Ardeerton, the oldest of the sisters. The Ardeerton children had difficult upbringing, plenty of money, but little to no love, but they had each other.
Honoria knew from a young age that she was not like her siblings. She heard her parents fighting one day and learned of her parenthood. Knowing she was hated and everything she loved was taken away from her, hardened her for the future. Honoria decided to don a disguise and was determined to meet a man and spend the night with him. She feels that this one night will allow her to live the rest of her life alone.
Marcus Kirkland, the Earl of Trafford was one of the best friends of Honoria’s brother. They had never met, because Honoria did not spend time in the same places. However on this night he met the most beautiful woman and was immediately enchanted with her. The story progresses with them meeting secretly, until the secret is exposed.
Honoria is going to need courage and her new love to help her trust the next step to Marcus, but is love going to be enough? I liked the twist of the mystery and the evil intentions of another for obstacles for Honoria and Marcus. A Simple Seduction by Janna MacGregor was a good read.
“𝗔 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻” is a captivating tale that weaves a rich tapestry of desire, secrets, and the pursuit of love. Janna MacGregor’s writing is engaging, drawing readers into the opulent world of the Millionaires of Mayfair with ease. The story of Lady Honoria "Noria" Ardeerton, eldest sister of the Duke of Pelham and Marcus Kirkland, the Earl of Trafford, is a dance of passion and propriety, where a single night of unbridled pleasure spirals into a lifetime of profound connection. The characters are masterfully crafted, with Lady Honoria’s strength and vulnerability; and Marcus, with his determination and tender heart that proves to be the perfect counterpart to Noria’s complex character. Together, they embark on a journey that tests the very limits of their resolve and the strength of their love.
“𝗔 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻” is a triumph of historical romance, offering a story that is as timeless as it is original. MacGregor’s writing gleams in her ability to portray the inner strife of her protagonists, making their emotional journey as evident as their physical one. It is a testament to MacGregor’s talent that the reader is left yearning for more, long after the last page is turned. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tropes: Big Secret; cinnamon roll hero; masquerade; secret identities; fake-ish betrothal Steam level: 3 First in a series.
3.25 stars. This was almost a 4-starrer for me until around the 30% mark. Even though I'm not a big fan of the masquerade trope--and honestly, both MC's seemed in complete denial about each other's identities (there were so many clues!). But I liked the slow burn, how MMC wanted to be friends with MFC first. I also liked how MFC's brother and sister were so supportive of her. I was willing for this to be a sweet "turn off your brain" HR.
But as soon as some poop hit the fan, MFC's brother got annoying and MFC got sillier and weaker. She was so hot and cold with MMC, I really started feeling sorry for him. So much could have been solved if she'd just had the guts to be honest. Yes, she was traumatized by her monster of a father, but I really needed more of an arc from her. More of a "I'm pulling on my big girl panties" moment. The way her dad held her sense of self-worth from beyond the grave was just too angsty for me, and then everything was wrapped up too quickly for all of the catastrophizing.
Nitpicks: a handful of editing errors and a weird timeline at the beginning. If MFC was 8 during the Prologue, when she was sent away, and Chapter 1 is set 11 years later, how can she be 24 and not 19?
A lovely start to a new series. The Duke of Pelhams family is first introduced in The Duchess of Drury Lane. The Duke is a friend of the main male character. There's a hint of tension between the Duke & Marcus, Earl of Trafford. It's only a hint & it's not followed up on until A Simple Seduction.
Honoria is the oldest of the Dukes sisters and she's had a tough time of it emotionally. Her Father was a cold horrid man & her Mother wasn't much of one. This ultimately leads to a situation no child should have to bear. She's so emotionally wrecked that she turns down a season in London & lives in the country full time. Her state of mind and self-doubt play a huge part in the plot. She's lovely, sweet, kind, everything you'd hope your child would grow up to be. She's learned to become invisible to the people around her, but Marcus comes along and sees her. Once he has he can't unsee her. He's got his own demons and between them it's a story full of coming into your own and finding happiness, accepting it & getting an HEA. I'm now waiting on the next book, another sister finding an HEA. I like this family.
It won't surprise me if this series ends up being MacGregor's most popular yet. It's certainly off to a wonderful start.
Update 4/2/24: Marcus is my new book boyfriend. I'm a total goner for a redeemed rake and he is such a good one. Sure, he was wild in his youth but there were reasons. Good ones. He's all grown up now, focused on his future, and committed to his very worthy charity, one that he doesn't just throw money at but in which he fully participates. Plus, he's sexy and sensual and...and... Well, it wouldn't be fun if he was all good guy, right? ;-)
My heart ached for all that Honoria had endured at the hands of those who were supposed to love and protect her. I could feel her pain and anguish but also her determination to claim one night for herself. I wanted to cheer her on and wrap her in a warm hug at the same time.
MacGregor did a superb job of developing both Marcus and Honoria in this book to the point where they felt like real people in whose happiness I was fully invested. They are so good together. I loved the steam, the caring, the quiet joy, and the laughter between them. I loved that they genuinely liked one another and shared common values. They may not have been what each was looking for (her brother's best friend was not in her plans - or her protective brother's - and someone with a secret scandal that could deep-six Marcus's charity was not in his) but the heart wants what the heart wants. My heart cheered over the choices Marcus made that proved her love was not misplaced. Book boyfriend material, indeed.
The sibling dynamic in this book is also wonderful, as is the dynamic among Pelham, Marcus, and the third member of their close friend group, Ravenscroft. I'm excited to discover the direction MacGregor has in mind for all of them, including Honoria's younger sister, Pippa. If you've been reading MacGregor, you've most likely already met the Duke of Pelham (Honoria's older brother), a secondary character from her The Widow Rules series. This book gives us more insight into this arrogant duke (who is perhaps hiding a marshmallow center?), introduces a lady who has him off balance (they have a past!), and has me eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
It won't surprise me if The Millionaires of Mayfair series ends up being MacGregor's most popular yet (and my favorite). Her writing voice sparkles and her characters shine. I'm already eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
WOW, another great start for this new series by this talented author. Extremely well written, full of drama, sadness, love, chemistry, hurt, action, secrets,, adventure, history, family issues and the Ton. Marcus is at a masquerade to hopefully find a wife to help his causes. Instead he comes across Honoria, who just wants a night of pleasure. Together they share a kiss and decide they want to spend time together. Honoria is the daughter of a Duke, who has passed and the sister of his best friend and the new Duke. After a night together, he asks her to marry him but she refuses. Her brother catches them together and Marcus asks her to marry him again and she is also pressured by her brother. So she agrees but put into place a plan so she still doesn't have to marry. The fixer steps in and tries to help her but add in a villain of an Earl who wants her money, his mother and the Ton for more excitement. Has lots of action and some sad parts. Fabulous story to curl up with and enjoy but very hard to put down to do anything else. Would strongly recommend to everyone.
This is a heartbreak love story that has some twist and turns to it. It will cause you some tears.
Lady Honoria Ardeerton is the eldest daughter of the duke of Pelham or so she thought. Anything she loved her father destroyed and he didn’t care for her and sent her away to school at the age of eight.
Honoria knew she would never marry and wanted one night of passion without any strings attached. She decided to go to her brother club since he was having a masquerade party. Honoria was dressed as Venus and was spotted by Marcus Kirkland Earl of Trafford. They agreed to one night of passion with no names.
While Honoria and Marcus are together, they are caught by her brother in a compromised position. Marcus offers to marry her, but Honoria is against it. While they are working to solve this, Honoria is being blacked mailed. She can’t marry as it will cause problems for everyone else thanks to the old duke. Will Marcus love for Noria be enough and can she trust Marcus with the truth. Be still my heart.
A Simple Seduction, the first book in Janna MacGregor’s Millionaires of Mayfair, is a sensational read! Lady Honoria Ardeerton has felt alone most of her life, despite being the eldest daughter of the Duke of Pelham and having two siblings. She abhors London, and prefers to live quietly in the country. At almost 25, she wants to experience what it feels like to be wanted and desired for herself, so she sneaks into a masquerade as Venus, for one night of passion, that will change her life forever, when she meets Marcus!
I absolutely loved the hero and heroine of this story. Marcus, the Earl of Trafford, and Honoria have a wonderful chemistry together, and even more wonderful hearts! All of the characters are well developed, including the secondary characters in her siblings Pelham and Pippa, friends Grace and Ravenscroft, and even the children Dartmore and Lady Julia. MacGregor crafts such a beautiful story that you are always rooting for the couple against all odds, and this is no exception! Wonderful!
Intriguing and tender, this book will draw you in as the characters' stories unfurl. We have two cinnamon rolls with tragedy touched pasts that have left lasting wounds upon their hearts. Our hero has the best of intentions for his lady love, but she's stubborn in her resolve that she'll only bring ruination and shame to any union. Watching these two waltz around each other, the delicious push and pull... it's everything that you crave in a spicy Regency Romance.
And can we take a moment to mention both Dane and Pippa, who were brilliantly written!? I am so excited to read their tales and can't wait to see just what makes them tick. Grace is going to be so entertaining, too. I quite liked her and immediately needed to suss out the past that links her to Dane.
If secret identities, forbidden love, and a novel where he falls first sound like your cup of tea, be sure to preorder this beautifully covered book. The romance is some of the spiciest Ms. MacGregor has even penned.
Lady Honoria has lived a hard life. When she was just a girl, her father, the Duke, decided that she wasn't his daughter and spent her away to school never to return home again until after his death. If that wasn't bad enough, he left a letter with his solicitor, to be given to her groom the day before any wedding, stating that she wasn't his daughter and wouldn't receive a dowry. Her mother didn't bother trying to help and her brother and sister loved her but couldn't really do anything until her brother became the Duke. Neither of them knew about the threat hanging over her. Marcus, the Earl of Trafford and good friend of her brother was wanting to marry but needed a wife with an impeccable reputation since he hoped to start a home for orphans and would need a wife to help get donations. The two met at a masquerade. The women were all demimonde imported from London but Honoria snuck in. Since she was determined not to marry she wanted one night to see what she would be missing. When Marcus approached her it was instant attraction although neither knew who the other was. As they began to spend time together, a troublemaker spotted them. Lord Carlyle was quick to start spreading rumors all the while asking to court Honoria. Marcus immediately proposed but even with the feelings she had for him she couldn't take the chance that her father's letter would surface. Traveling to London, hoping to quiet the scandal only made the problems worse. Convinced that she must leave London and the man she loved everything seemed to come to a head with Carlyles threats. Only Marcus could save her now and he goes above and beyond to save the woman he loves. When they happily ever after comes it is definitely worth the wait.
Lady Honoria Ardeerton is the oldest sister of the Duke of Pelham. She has decided that she will live her life on her terms.
Marcus Kirkland, Earl of Trafford is best friends with Pelham. He lost his parents at a young age and wants to start a charity for children in the same situation.
Pelham is hosting a masquerade party at his club and Honoria decides she is going to sneak in to enjoy a night of pleasure with someone of her choosing. No names, no attachment and she will be content with her life. Marcus sees Honoria at the party and knows that he has to get to know her. Let the entertainment begin!!
Wow!! What a wonderful and wild emotional roller coaster this book took me on!! The book was will written and you could really feel the emotions in the book as you were reading it. I absolutely loved Honoria and Marcus's story!! I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next book in this series!!
A Simple Seduction Janna MacGregor introduces a new historical romance series, MILLIONAIRES OF MAYFAIR. A Simple Seduction is the first book in the series. This book is "always Janna" --- a delightful story with strong female characters, likable secondary ones and of course, the villainous villains! There is drama, heartache, romance, spice, humor, intrigue and more. Family secrets threaten the life of Lady Honoria (Honor to her family) Ardeerton. She wants marriage and children, but is that possible? Her brother, the Duke of Pelham, and sister Pippa have been her champions throughout her life.
Honor refuses to have a London season. She wants one night of passion. So she sneaks into Pelham's masquerade ball, looking for the perfect accomplice for the night. She finds a masked man she thinks will suit. Her rules are no names and just one night.
Marcus Kirkland, the Earl of Trafford, is looking for a wife with impeccable character who will overcome his reputation and can help him with his charity. He is attracted to Honor and intrigued by her disguise and rules.
Honor is also attracted to Marcus, but doesn't realize he is one of her brother's best friends. She tells Marcus her name is Nora. He doesn't know who she is, either! Their one passionate night together ends with Pelham finding them in a "compromised position"! Of course, they must marry.
Marcus is willing, but Nora/Noria is afraid her family secrets will be revealed and ruin Marcus and his charity. Will Noria have the courage to stand up to blackmail and fight for her chance of happiness with Marcus? Will Marcus still want her when family secrets are revealed?
I was so involved in this story and couldn't put it down! The characters were so real to me and I felt their emotions. This is one of attributes that makes Janna MacGregor's books so entertaining! I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion: BUY the Book and READ it!
P.S. The sparks fly between Pelham and “The Governess”! Can’t wait to see the byplay in the next book!
Honoria is the sister of a duke who hides out in the country and avoids society because her father had cast her out as a child and also believed that she was not his child. She plans to attend a masquerade for a one night tryst before she claims her spinster status for good. And she does meet a charming and delightful man named Marcus who is attractive and makes her feel desired and safe. The problem is that he’s really an earl and her brother’s best friend. Things get complicated when they find out their true identities and get caught because Honoria is adamant that she cannot marry Marcus. Turns out the old duke had arranged for a letter claiming Honoria’s status as illegitimate to be revealed if she ever marries, so Honoria is trying to keep her siblings’ reputations intact. Despite Honoria’s hesitance, Marcus continues to try to prove that he truly cares for her. This was a fun series started and I’m excited to read more about Honoria’s family members.
This is Honoria (Noria) Ardeerton's and Marcus Kirkland, the Earl if Trafford's story, and wow! this book has made it onto my top 5 books of the year so far. Determined not to marry but still wanting to have a passionate experience before facing a life alone, Honoria sneaks into her brother's very riqué masquerade at his gaming hell, her goal was a simple one: find that one man who would give her a night of pleasure. And she met Marcus. And being a masquerade, neither let their identify be known. With a perfectly defined plot, this story flowed despite the twists and turns. As is Janna MacGregor's trademark, she filled the pages with well-developed characters, a nasty blackmailer, a thankfully-deceased despicable father, and a brother whose love would help give her the chance at a HEA. I really enjoyed this love story and can't wait for the rest of the series starring the other Ardeerton siblings.
Janna MacGregor is one of my favorite HR authors and once again she did not disappoint! I received an ARC copy of this book and was delighted to read it. Honoria and Marcus was super likable characters from the start. Honoria, the supposed bastard daughter of a Duke has to hide her true identity while wanting to experience a night of passion because she knows she will never married. THAT night she gets ends up with Marcus, Earl of Trafford and it’s over before it starts. He is instantly drawn to her and when things get a little too real (getting caught by her brother, the current Duke) decisions have to be made. Janna did a great job in introducing new characters in a new series flawless. I seriously can’t wait for the next book in the series. High and Pippa were great side characters and I am sure their romance will be just as hot as Honoria’s and Marcus’!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.