Taming the Viscount Viper

The Monsters Ball #10

by Evangeline Priest

Her Majesty has deemed your Season a failure. With no further prospects at this time, you are hereby ordered to attend The Monsters Ball.
Imogene Dalloway’s Season on the Marriage Mart has been a disaster. However, unlike other young ladies of her station, she prefers the freedom of spinsterhood. Her plans change when she discovers that the bulk of her parent’s inheritance will go to her father’s first son, leaving Imogene and her younger brother without any income or support. With little time to secure her future inheritance, she finds her tattered invitation to the Monster's Ball.

Much to his dismay, Viridian, the Viscount Casselon needs a wife. His first wife’s family is contesting his rights to his lands–and his son!–and if he cannot find a suitable mate soon, he will be left with nothing. It is convenience-at-first-sight when he encounters a human female at the Monster’s Ball who abhors the thought of marriage as much as he does.

Together they sign a contract with lofty rules in order to keep their respective families intact. The only thing they don’t account for is falling in love.

Now they each must convince the other that there may need to be some amendments to their agreement...

Taming the Viscount Viper is a spicy regency monster romance with ball gowns, bridal hunts, and breeding. This story is part of The Monsters Ball collection and links to the Obsidian Rift Universe.

Genres: Monster Romance, Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Romance, Historical, Monsters, Romantasy

344 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2024

About the author

WRITES "LOVE AT FIRST BITE" PARANORMAL ROMANCE FEATURING GROWLY ALPHA HEROES AND WOMEN STRONG ENOUGH TO TAME THEM.

Reviews

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where can I find this book? It says it’s out, but it’s not on Amazon!

[Y.D. Mar · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those of you who follow my reviews, you know my tastes can be at times eclectic. From splatterpunk to bizarro to romance.

But when I heard the next installment of Monsters Ball was just around the corner, I perked up. I really did.

I enjoyed writing in this world and was excited to go back into it. Taming the Viscount Viper reeled me in with a sensible heroine who just wanted to take care of her little brother. I don't have a little brother myself, but I could feel their love coming off the pages and at times it made my heart constrict.

Because this is what love is. And during a precarious time like this setting... where the heroine has been put into a position she cannot avoid.. it was necessary to keep her head up and her eyes forward on the mission.

___________
A solemn air descended upon her brother once more. "When I grow up, I will make sure that you never have to worry about this kind of thing ever again."

Imogene met his gaze and she wanted to honor the fire that was in his eyes. So, instead of diminishing it, she nodded. "And I will endeavor to ensure you never have to."
___________


The heroine being of Asian descent was just the cherry on top for me. Her mannerisms, the way she thought, the way she responded, her ability to save face... it was very easy to connect with her and find a piece of myself in the story. I appreciate the author greatly for that. The nuances were so subtle... but so big in my eyes, at the same time. I absolutely adored the way she carried an underlying strength rather than the common strong-willed one we've seen a rise of lately (and there's nothing wrong with that).

There's something to be said for a woman who knows how to survive in the most subtle ways.

____________
She might be a quiet mouse amongst strangers, but she had a gift of making a statement without saying a word.
____________


And this line...

____________
They had expected Imogene to be quiet and be the perfect hostess. A perfect bauble in their collection of bragging rights. Imogene would have rather died by one million paper cuts than tolerate such pomposity.
____________

It was such a simple line, but it hit me like a sledgehammer. I've been the trophy girlfriend before. The novelty they wanted to collect and showcase. And I've felt the same when I realized that was what I became -- the prize in a game between men.

*takes a deep breath* but that's neither here nor there.

The romance? Well, I knew it was a cozy and that's exactly what I got. I'm not mad either! The Viscount started off with a brash charm but quickly became likeable with his wit.

___________
"Do you have no shame?"

"In being acquainted with you? Absolutely not. I will never have shame in pursuing what I want."
___________

As the characters both grew around one another, so did the banter. AND I WAS HERE FOR ALL OF IT. Many a times I found myself blushing as I'm yelling "how dare ye!" into the void only to whisper... oh, he dares. He so dares, the charming bastard.

____________
He pulled away, drawing a whimpering protest and a glare from her. Veridian gave her a wide smile. "I take it I should continue?"
____________

I absolutely loved the way the author wove in Lady Grey's gossip in between. I'm sure I was rolling my eyes just as much as the characters were, reading them.

And the hunting/primal scenes. Ayoo! you will not be disappointed. How can a chase scene be written so prim and properlike? well, you will have to read it to find out, now, won't you? ;)

This line right here, reminded me of my own life. My mother is from the "mother land" or "old country", and this rang LOUD and true.

___________
Women are kept ignorant of the world, then get pushed into marrying well, and yet when we do, we are magically supposed to know everything.
___________

OOF.

Could I see myself marrying someone like Veridian in an alternative universe? Absolutely. Despite bringing his best foot forward...he still had his moments of...being a male and making very male mistakes. I loved that flaw. And I loved how they grew to learn each other, working things out. <3


I rank this book 5 stars for the audience it was intended for, which is cozy monster readers who want a feel good book or a reader who wants a palate cleanser. This book ranks cupcakes and sprinkles on my personal darkness scale.

[kymagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Regency England, Imogene (h) faces losing her inheritance after her parents' death, while naga Viridian (H), the Viscount of Casselon, needs a new wife to secure his family's lands and protect his son. Imogene and Viridian meet at the Monsters Ball, where both are seeking stability and agree to a contract marriage for convenience. As they get to know one another, the relationship between Imogene and Viridian, is replete with a mix of witty banter, intense heat, and moments of tenderness. Imogene is bold and adventurous, often surprising Viridian with her courage and charm. Despite his stern exterior, Viridian is devoted to her and ready to defend her against any threats. As the couple navigates their unconventional marriage, they encounter challenges stemming from family dynamics and the politics of the naga clans. Imogene's interactions with her younger brother and maid add depth to her character, showcasing her underlying strength and loyalty and Viridian's possessiveness and protective instincts play a significant role in their story. Ultra-hot and steamy naga-human regency romance with plenty of action, challenges, feels, dram, and humor.

[TheReaderVert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spicey mouse & tamed snake

As a Historical Romance it had some good tropes: virgin wife, secretive MMC, slowly possessive MMC, fear of love in a marriage of convenience, and loss relations but with the mix of monster romance: dual peens, knotting, a primal scene, a little bit of Naga lore. So it was enough balance to have some good steam, Romance build and a tad of influence. These books are sort of difficult. Too much monster and it loses the Historical sweetness and sensibilities; too much Historical and it loses the rawness of monster lore. But the afternoon passed quickly with this one and it was a well written tale

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taming The Viscount Viper
The Monsters Ball
Evangeline Priest
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Time to read: 3.5 hours
HEA
**My review may contain spoilers!!!!!
**Read Trigger Warnings!!!!

Tropes/Genres/tags:
Monster Romance
Historical romance
V1rg1n heroine
Single dad
Marriage of convenience
Age gap

Imogene Dalloway, 18, is forced to go to the Monster’s ball in order to find a husband, so her family does not fall into ruin. Viridian Sarthak, the Viscount of Casselon, is in need of a new wife and mother to his son, in order to keep his lands. During their time at the ball, Viridian and Imogene find they have a mutual attraction, and come to an understanding and arrangement for a wedding.

I enjoyed this book, and I enjoyed what little historical aspects this book held, though I would say it’s loosely historical. It is a monster romance however so that did not knock down any stars. Overall this was a good read and I would read more from this author.

[Ahren McNamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love monster regency romance! Naga? Even better! Pepper in some marriage of convenience and I’m totally sold! The entire series of interconnected standalones in The Monsters Ball has been amazing. Viridian and Imogen are perfect. Single dad who needs to remarry to protect his assets. Human woman who was ostracized from her family after the sudden deaths of her parents (her half brother is a total ass) needing to secure a life for her and her younger brother. The heat takes a bit to get to but the buildup is delicious and once you get there it FIRMLY stays there and is immaculate. If you haven’t picked up any of the books from The Monsters Ball, I suggest starting today!

[Veronica LaRoche · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was absolutely wanted I needed. The story was amazing and the characters were unforgettable. Definitely get one clicking. You won’t be disappointed.

[BookishMya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well worth the wait! I fell in love with the Monsters Ball last season and have long awaited the story of Miss. Imogene Dalloway. The friendships formed during the initial ball had intrigued me and I longed for more. Evangeline Priest delivered in a big way, with a story packed with tender emotion while simultaneously delivering the heat. Viridian is every bit the golden virago I would’ve expected to bring out Imogene’s fierce side. With his influence she quickly steps into her role as Viscountess to the House of Sarthak, gaining the love and loyalty of the entire Naga line. Her interactions with her maid (and friend) Caroline were a delight. The tender care she bestows on her brother a balm to the soul after so much loss. None can overshadow the care and selflessness of her husband and the extent to which he dotes on is new wife. That carved a special place in my heart for this story. Amidst all the tenderness, came a raw heat to melt the page. The sheer playfulness of their mating packed even more heat into the admittedly steamy scenes within. This story will leave you panting for more, and I for one would be quite happy to revisit the House of Sarthak for years to come. This Naga line certainly coils around your heart.

[Claire · Rating 2 out of 5]

I like the idea of a monstrous Regcency romance, but I wanted more detail about how that society would function. Imogene went from a clueless virgin to someone willing to get chased and dicked down in the woods in far too short a time, IMO. The forced miscommunication between her and Viridian when he had to leave was also too unbelievable for me. Especially the last one - her entire family turned on him for the matter of a few days? Pfft.

Oh! I was also bugged when Viridian was described as striding or walking, or other bipedal actions. It made me picture him with both legs AND a long snake tail at first, but I think he's just snake on the bottom? I would have preferred descriptors that fit a snake's style of movement - slither, undulate, etc - to emphasize the physical difference between them.

This is the second book in the series I've read, but the first I've finished. (I DNF'd the Marble Marquis one). Imogene's two friends at the ball seem interesting, so I might try those as long as they're in KU.

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read by Evangeline and also the first book I've read in the Monsters Ball series but I can happily say that I'll definitely be reading more from Miss Evangeline and the rest of the Monsters Ball series because I was seriously impressed.

This was a nice palate cleanser from all the dark and smutty books I usually read. I'm a huge fan of regency TV shows and movies and I don't read alot of books from the same era but I did love this.

I absolutely loved Viridian and how he brought out such a fierce side of Imogen. The banter between these two was absolutely delightful to read and I loved every second of it.

This book showed that family is everything and depicted it in such a well written way.

I can't wait to read more from this series because this world is so fun and intriguing!!

[Kellie Nylund · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been waiting to hear the story of Miss Imogene Dalloway since last season of the monsters ball. She would rather be a spinster but has to secure a husband to support her and her little brother due to family inheritance was squandered by her father’s first son. I felt the sibling relationship was wholesome and she was willing to go into a marriage of convenience to do that. Then, comes in Viridian with his own reason for needing a wife. I loved watching their mutual agreement to enter their marriage blooming into love. It was also very interesting learning the naga tradition for the bridal hunt.

I highly recommend checking this out.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I wanted to thank the author for the opportunity to arc read this.

[Breanne Mays · Rating 3 out of 5]

****I recieved this book as an ARC in exchange for a fair review****

This book combines the allure of Regency-era romance with a twist reminiscent of Bridgerton meeting monsters. Viridian Sarthak, a Naga male and viscount, finds himself in need of a new bride due to scandalous rumors swirling around his household. Imogene, his prospective bride, harbors no desire for marriage; instead, she wishes to remain a spinster and care for her brother Jon. Their paths intertwine at the Monsters Ball, both believing that a contract marriage is the solution to their respective predicaments.

"Taming the Viscount" proved to be an enjoyable, light read, driven by its captivating characters. The writing, while not flawless, showed promise, especially considering that I received an ARC. With another round of editing, it could certainly shine brighter. I awarded it three stars based on personal preferences. The blending of modern and Regency-era language, akin to the style seen in the TV show Bridgerton, occasionally made it challenging to fully immerse myself in the historical setting. Additionally, while I typically appreciate a good monster romance, I found that my discomfort with snakes persisted even when they're portrayed as half-attractive men. Perhaps it's the slithering aspect that unsettles me.

Overall, "Taming the Viscount" offers a unique take on the Regency romance genre, sure to delight readers who enjoy a touch of the supernatural in their love stories.

[Tammy Gul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Viridian and Imogene are a really good couple! I love e how they are so respectful of each other but still super hot!!! That primal scene.... the possessiveness🥵🥵. Definitely worth the wait for this one, I was so so excited for this monster ball story as this was the one I was waiting for after I finished the monstrous Duke and since all three were announced together I was getting a little nervous! It met all expectations. Is it a little looser on the regencyness... maybe but they're monsters I feel like it hit the nail on the head on what I would think decorum would be in this time period!! So impressed with all these authors!! Thanks for another great one Eva!!! All your books have just the right amount of sugar and spice!

[Malinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Main Characters:
Imogene Dalloway & Viridian, the Viscount Casselon

Review:
I really enjoyed this one. Imogene and Viridian were both enjoyable. Plus he gifts her with a library!

Tropes:
-Age Gap
-Readers
=British
-Historical
-Marriage of Convenience
-Monsters
-Naga/Snakes
-Novella
-Regency
-Single Parent
-Smut

Quotes:
“It is a truth universally acknowledged that a spinster facing a marriage of convenience is in need of a throbbing cock or two.”

"She might be a quiet mouse amongst strangers, but she had a gift of making a statement without saying a word."

"She was feeling woefully under-prepared. Women are kept ignorant of the world, then get pushed into marrying well, and yet when we do, we are magically supposed to know everything."

[Sydnee Walsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imogene is in need of a husband per her great aunt Mina. She wants the best for Imogene and finding a husband is it. After her parents ship is lost at sea and her older stepbrother kicked not only her but he younger brother Jon out the Monster Ball is her last option.
She meets Viridian there and even though they have explicit details mapped out in their marriage license they both want more. They find that marriage isn’t exactly what they expected. It is way better. Family is everything and it is show in this book and their two families.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rumours, Monsters and a Marriage of Convenience That Quickly Morphs

Viridian needs a new wife to protect his lands and son, Imogene needs a husband to protect herself and her brother. These two seem like a good match - but can their match be or something more? I loved this story with its hints of regency and nagas along with other monsters. Imogene was great to read, witty and steady, while Viridian was so perfect for her. A entertaining read.

[Jelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adorable

I would definitely qualify this as a cozy monster romance. It’s light on angst and the relationship between the two mains is as fluffy as they come.

It did get to feeling a little stretched out at the end and the low angst had me half relieved and half disconcerted.

All in all, it was a cute read and I’ll happily read more by this author.

[Belinda Clemons · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished the Viscount Viper and it was so good I devoured that book like it was the last piece of chocolate cake. I really loved Viridian and Imogene 10 plus stars ⭐️ I kinda want more of this couple. I also read the extra bonus short about Kurzon and Nooriya and it was amazing as well

[Ellie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book was good the story was good.

Some of the word choices were not ideal for me. A lot of times when our Naga was moving around it was a lot of words stating he was walking or striding which he doesn't do cuz his lower half is a snake.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Did you love Anthony and Kate from Bridgerton? Was season 2 your favorite like it was mine due to the witty banter and competitive spirit of our main characters? This book is for you. Plus nagas? Hot.

[Kenzyanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so charming, romantic, and so intriguing I couldn't put my tabet down!! I don't want to give spoilers so I would def recommend this to a fantasy romance lover or an urban fantasy lover. Def gonna read it again!!.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great banter

If you enjoy snappy dialogue between the hero and heroine, this book will scratch that itch. The overall tone of the story is pleasant, with no war or political machinations. Monster romance in a Regency setting is the best of both subgenres.

[DemetraP · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the book. However, the hero made a big deal about having two sets of genitals.

Spoilers.
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There was not any double penetration until the very end.

[Valentina · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a mixed series of spicy romances (as is to be expected with different authors) this was the best in the series!

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first Eva Priest novel, and I absolutely loved it. Sooooo much fun. Having a Bête Monde as a monster infused regency era ensemble is everything to me.

Plus, her spice was top notch.

[Sharon&#x1f52e;&#x1f47d; · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ADORED these storylines. This one was no different for my love. I enjoyed how these characters came together & grew together!

[Nicola Schmidt · Rating 1 out of 5]

dnf

[rasheeda forde · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute lovey dovey read with no 3rd act breakup.

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This has probably been my favorite in the series, so far; the mcs have good banter with each other and I do love the gift of a library. It's very spicy and I ended up asking google alot of things about snakes that will now haunt my search history.

[Edit · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

This review is based on my personal preferences and the rating reflects how much I enjoyed reading this book.

* Hero(s) - 3/5
* Heroine(s) - 4/5
* Secondary Characters - 4/5

* Plot/Storyline - 3/5
* Romance/Steam - 4/5
* Drama/Conflict/Angst - 3/5
* Worldbuilding/Atmosphere - 4/5

* Writing Style - 4/5

* extra story
Claiming the Viscount Viper / Lord Kurzon Sarthak - 5 stars