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The Notorious Briarwoods #1
The Wallflower's Absolutely Scandalous Seduction
Lady Hermia Briarwood loves being a wallflower.
Invisible to the ton, Hermia has made a habit of studying the mad antics of society, and few antics are madder than her own eccentric family's. Love them as she does, she wishes they all enjoyed a bit of quiet. Alas, they do not. Now, in her opinion, being a wallflower is far better than dancing with foolish fellows! Frankly, she can't wait until her required seasons are done, whereupon she can retire to the country and spend her life in blissful solitude. After an accidental encounter with the Earl of Drexel, he offers her everything she's ever dreamed of. A life alone.
But how can she possibly keep her sensible heart in check when he unleashes his charm and wounded soul upon her?
The Earl of Drexel must find a wife.
His family is the very devil. How could he bring anyone else into it? When he discovers Lady Hermia blending into the silk-covered walls at a ball, he cannot deny that she would make him the perfect wife as her only desire is to be left to her own devices. She will expect nothing of him. It's ideal. Quickly, he offers a marriage of convenience. All they have to do is make it to the wedding, then they both will be free! However, he never expects just how much he'll long to seduce his wallflower. Or how she will quite unexpectedly capture his heart. But he has sworn to never make the terrible mistake of naively believing in love.
Not when that love might break Hermia’s heart and destroy what is left of his soul.
Invisible to the ton, Hermia has made a habit of studying the mad antics of society, and few antics are madder than her own eccentric family's. Love them as she does, she wishes they all enjoyed a bit of quiet. Alas, they do not. Now, in her opinion, being a wallflower is far better than dancing with foolish fellows! Frankly, she can't wait until her required seasons are done, whereupon she can retire to the country and spend her life in blissful solitude. After an accidental encounter with the Earl of Drexel, he offers her everything she's ever dreamed of. A life alone.
But how can she possibly keep her sensible heart in check when he unleashes his charm and wounded soul upon her?
The Earl of Drexel must find a wife.
His family is the very devil. How could he bring anyone else into it? When he discovers Lady Hermia blending into the silk-covered walls at a ball, he cannot deny that she would make him the perfect wife as her only desire is to be left to her own devices. She will expect nothing of him. It's ideal. Quickly, he offers a marriage of convenience. All they have to do is make it to the wedding, then they both will be free! However, he never expects just how much he'll long to seduce his wallflower. Or how she will quite unexpectedly capture his heart. But he has sworn to never make the terrible mistake of naively believing in love.
Not when that love might break Hermia’s heart and destroy what is left of his soul.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2024
847 people are currently reading
411 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
July 21, 2025
This is my 68th book by Eva Devon. I read one of her books in 2016 then didn't pick her up again until 2018 and I have been reading her ever since. She is one I consider a favorite author. I saw she had this new series out and am looking forward to it. I don't read book descriptions anymore so I have no idea what this was going to be about. It makes a story more interesting to not know what's to come.
This seemed like it read super quick. I liked Hermia and Crispin although I felt they were a bit boring. Seemed great for each other though. I personally didn't feel they had any passion between them. It was a decent read nothing exciting.
This seemed like it read super quick. I liked Hermia and Crispin although I felt they were a bit boring. Seemed great for each other though. I personally didn't feel they had any passion between them. It was a decent read nothing exciting.
June 18, 2024
DNF at 50%
After reading this novel halfway through, I am officially dnf'ing it. I am just not vibing with the characters or story thus far. I'm also not feeling the chemistry between Crispin and Hermia; it feels like Crispin has spent more time on page with Hermia's mother and various brothers as they threaten his life, and I just don't really care about either of the two MCs. I also don't like how Hermia's brother the Duke is placed on this pedestal and is portrayed as infallible as he repeatedly threatens and attempts to control both Hermia and Crispin out of "love". Overall, this book is just not for me.
After reading this novel halfway through, I am officially dnf'ing it. I am just not vibing with the characters or story thus far. I'm also not feeling the chemistry between Crispin and Hermia; it feels like Crispin has spent more time on page with Hermia's mother and various brothers as they threaten his life, and I just don't really care about either of the two MCs. I also don't like how Hermia's brother the Duke is placed on this pedestal and is portrayed as infallible as he repeatedly threatens and attempts to control both Hermia and Crispin out of "love". Overall, this book is just not for me.
May 3, 2024
A well written historical romance novella set in England. Lots of entertaining scenes involving the heroine's brothers. 🙂
June 17, 2024
Sweet and Spicy Scandalous Tale
What an absolutely delightful turn on the good ole regency era romance. Its like if you want Bridgerton but with some depth. The characters pain and upbringing from childhood was so well written and beautifully done. We get this great glimpse of a family skirting the rules of the ton but with a fun energy. The author does not speak down to the readers even when she over shares but the characters are truly a joy. From the meet cute the banter is actually really good. A wallflower who is a true sturdy gem and a repressed Earl who doesn't think he deserves love. All the awesome tropes are on display. Once the Earl spotted Hermia there was no turning back. Watching him slowly realize how bad he wanted to seduce his wallflower was sweet
What an absolutely delightful turn on the good ole regency era romance. Its like if you want Bridgerton but with some depth. The characters pain and upbringing from childhood was so well written and beautifully done. We get this great glimpse of a family skirting the rules of the ton but with a fun energy. The author does not speak down to the readers even when she over shares but the characters are truly a joy. From the meet cute the banter is actually really good. A wallflower who is a true sturdy gem and a repressed Earl who doesn't think he deserves love. All the awesome tropes are on display. Once the Earl spotted Hermia there was no turning back. Watching him slowly realize how bad he wanted to seduce his wallflower was sweet
October 18, 2024
My Rating: 2.5 stars out of 5
I feel like this book might have been better had it been longer. I feel like this book might have been better had it been longer, as it would have given the author more time to really delve into this story and these characters without it happening literally within the span of a few days. It also would have given us more time to get to know the rest of Hermia’s family (although I am sure that will come later as I assume future novels in this series will revolve around them settling down). However, they are just so over the top that you can’t help but find them interesting, if not utterly preposterous for the time period (I mean seriously, being a Duke or a Dowager Duchess will only go so far). But it was obvious that they had a close bond with each other, and I liked the way the brothers were willing to both stand up for their sister as well as allow her to have the space to live her own life.
I also enjoyed most of the interactions between Crispin and Hermia, especially when they first meet as she basically demands that he get out of her way because she cannot see the dancers. There was some occasional witty banter between the pair that made it easy to believe in their friendship, their romance however was another story entirely.
Day One – The pair meet. They share two dances (scandalous especially considering they hadn’t been formally introduced), and Crispin decides that he likes her (particularly because he knows his mother won’t approve of her family, but that’s not the only reason). Apparently, she’s the only woman he’s met that hasn’t bored him to tears so he knows she’s going to be the woman he will marry.
Day Two – He accepts an invitation to join Hermia and her family in their box at the theater. It is here, after the play and during a moment alone for the two that he broaches the subject of marriage with her. He promises her that other than visiting with her to acquire the “heir and the spare” he will leave her entirely to her own devices in a cottage that she will own and will more than enough money to be comfortable. She agrees.
Day Three – A somewhat funny interlude happens at Hermia’s home. Some realizations are made about his mother’s past that I can’t get into without spoiling too much.
Day Four – They attend a ball. This is to allow society to become used to the idea of her as Crispin’s betrothed and so Crispin’s mother can “assess” her to see what sort of Countess she will make (which to me seems like a moot point since she has no control over her son’s choice of bride). Of course, the two are caught in a compromising position meaning they have to get married as soon as possible instead of waiting the two weeks they originally had planned. So thanks to her brother for already having a special license, and her mother for knowing how to get things done, the two are married overnight. A little rushed in my opinion, but whatever.
It is after the wedding that things really begin to fall apart for these two. You see, the cottage and Hermia are both more than Crispin expected. And he realizes that he has fallen in love with his wife, and that being with her makes him happy. Two things he swore would never happen for him based on the trauma he suffered as a child watching his parents always at each other’s throats. So, he leaves her at the cottage and returns to London. They spend about two weeks apart before her family intervenes and he shows up at a ball where they quickly make up so that they can truly start their happily-ever-after.
Now while I was definitely not a fan of how quickly these two fell in love with each other to begin with, I think I hated how he treated her after they were married more. Yes, his parents hated each other. Yes, he was denied the love and affection that he should have had growing up, but he knew all of this before he married. He should have grown up and talked things out with his wife, especially when she laid her heart bare to him and told him that she was in love with him on the day he left her. They could have worked things out between them without airing their dirty laundry out to her family. And while I appreciated the fact that her family considered Crispin one of their own, I feel as though both they (and especially Hermia) let him off entirely way too easily. He broke her heart, and left her only days after they married and all her family (mother included) did was say oh you poor thing, we understand? I would have at least like to have seen her brother blacken his eye. And Crispin definitely needed to more groveling at his wife’s feet than merely show up, ask her to dance and confess that he had made a mistake.
However, I enjoyed her family’s antics just enough that I will check out at least one more book in this series before I decide how much farther I am going to go with it. I also recommend this one to those who enjoy fast-past historical romance novellas.
October 10, 2024
My rating for The Wallflower's Absolutely Scandalous Seduction, by Eva Devon: 3.5 stars, rounded down to 3 stars.
This was the first book in the Notorious Briarwoods series. These books can be read standalone, but I believe they would be more enjoyable if read in order -- as they are each about the romance of one of the Briarwood siblings.
I liked that the Briarwood family was so different than most noble families of the time. They didn't care what others thought of them, and didn't bother to try and meet society's ridiculous expectations. I also really liked that the family stuck together, cared deeply about each other, and did their best to help each other achieve happiness.
I liked Hermia, and liked that she was okay with being a wallflower. She understood who she was, and made no effort to be different. I did think, though, that she needed to stop comparing herself to her beautiful sister Juliet. I liked that she knew what she wanted out of life (or thought she did), and worked to achieve that goal.
Crispin was likable enough, but it was sad how his family had convinced him that he would never be enough, and he would never be as good as his brother who died. I liked that Hermia and her family saw his worth, and all tried to help him see his own value. I did think, though, that his reaction to falling for Hermia was a little extreme. I also thought Hermia forgave him a little too easily.
This book did have sex scenes, but they weren't extremely explicit (which I like). I also really liked that Hermia's family helped the couple with the scandal they faced, and didn't judge them at all.
I'm looking forward to reading the other books in this series.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
This was the first book in the Notorious Briarwoods series. These books can be read standalone, but I believe they would be more enjoyable if read in order -- as they are each about the romance of one of the Briarwood siblings.
I liked that the Briarwood family was so different than most noble families of the time. They didn't care what others thought of them, and didn't bother to try and meet society's ridiculous expectations. I also really liked that the family stuck together, cared deeply about each other, and did their best to help each other achieve happiness.
I liked Hermia, and liked that she was okay with being a wallflower. She understood who she was, and made no effort to be different. I did think, though, that she needed to stop comparing herself to her beautiful sister Juliet. I liked that she knew what she wanted out of life (or thought she did), and worked to achieve that goal.
Crispin was likable enough, but it was sad how his family had convinced him that he would never be enough, and he would never be as good as his brother who died. I liked that Hermia and her family saw his worth, and all tried to help him see his own value. I did think, though, that his reaction to falling for Hermia was a little extreme. I also thought Hermia forgave him a little too easily.
This book did have sex scenes, but they weren't extremely explicit (which I like). I also really liked that Hermia's family helped the couple with the scandal they faced, and didn't judge them at all.
I'm looking forward to reading the other books in this series.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
April 25, 2024
A marvelous beginning to a new series!
The Briarwoods are well known for their scandalous nature. The family is large with four sons and two daughters…twins. All the children were given Shakespearean names. Juliet is the effervescent diamond of the season while Hermia is the wallflower. She has a purpose really, tracking the potential suitors for her sister. Her greatest desire is to finish her required seasons and be left alone in a cottage in the countryside. That is until she is backed against a wall, a man’s back. Not being able to see around him she asks him to move.
Lord Crispin is the owner of the broad back. He is in need of a wife, per his mother’s demand. He has promised his mother he would dance five times this night. Two dances and one conversation about how they wish to live their lives and Chispin decides Hermia would be the perfect wife. She, alone in the country and he in London. This is only the beginning as Hermia’s brothers intervene.
The characters are well developed and interesting. The Duchess of Westleigh is absolutely wonderful. Her son, the Duke may be a bit crazed (I can’t wait for his story!)
This is a beautiful story of a boisterous, loving and protective family. I’m sure each book will be full of witty dialogue, fun and of course love.
The Briarwoods are well known for their scandalous nature. The family is large with four sons and two daughters…twins. All the children were given Shakespearean names. Juliet is the effervescent diamond of the season while Hermia is the wallflower. She has a purpose really, tracking the potential suitors for her sister. Her greatest desire is to finish her required seasons and be left alone in a cottage in the countryside. That is until she is backed against a wall, a man’s back. Not being able to see around him she asks him to move.
Lord Crispin is the owner of the broad back. He is in need of a wife, per his mother’s demand. He has promised his mother he would dance five times this night. Two dances and one conversation about how they wish to live their lives and Chispin decides Hermia would be the perfect wife. She, alone in the country and he in London. This is only the beginning as Hermia’s brothers intervene.
The characters are well developed and interesting. The Duchess of Westleigh is absolutely wonderful. Her son, the Duke may be a bit crazed (I can’t wait for his story!)
This is a beautiful story of a boisterous, loving and protective family. I’m sure each book will be full of witty dialogue, fun and of course love.
January 14, 2025
The wallflowers absolutely scandalous seduction
This was my first book by Eva Devon and I couldn‘t put it down. After each chapter ended I had to read the next one. So I was very happy when I discovered that there are still a whole series of books by Eva Devon (my TBR list will be happy).
I love marriage of convenience stories, that‘s why I chose this book and it doesn‘t disappointed. This book shows how people are shaped by their childhood and how much love they experienced. Hermia grows up in a large family full of love (and scandal). I love this family and can‘t wait to read more of them. Crispin, on the other hand, grew up without love and always felt like he wasn‘t enough and couldn’t do anything right.
It’s beautiful written how these two worlds collide. Crispin is fascinated by Hermia and her family because they are so different from everything he has ever met in his life. And he thereby realizes what has been missing and at the same time he cannot allow this to be a part of his life.
My heart broke when Crispin felt the love for Hermia and didn’t know what was happening to him because he had never experienced this feeling before. It‘s beautiful how Hermia is there for him and recognizes what he needs and it’s just as beautiful as Crispin can allow love in the end.
The epilogue is stunning and an amazing end to this love story.
This was my first book by Eva Devon and I couldn‘t put it down. After each chapter ended I had to read the next one. So I was very happy when I discovered that there are still a whole series of books by Eva Devon (my TBR list will be happy).
I love marriage of convenience stories, that‘s why I chose this book and it doesn‘t disappointed. This book shows how people are shaped by their childhood and how much love they experienced. Hermia grows up in a large family full of love (and scandal). I love this family and can‘t wait to read more of them. Crispin, on the other hand, grew up without love and always felt like he wasn‘t enough and couldn’t do anything right.
It’s beautiful written how these two worlds collide. Crispin is fascinated by Hermia and her family because they are so different from everything he has ever met in his life. And he thereby realizes what has been missing and at the same time he cannot allow this to be a part of his life.
My heart broke when Crispin felt the love for Hermia and didn’t know what was happening to him because he had never experienced this feeling before. It‘s beautiful how Hermia is there for him and recognizes what he needs and it’s just as beautiful as Crispin can allow love in the end.
The epilogue is stunning and an amazing end to this love story.
July 21, 2024
The Wallflower's Absolutely Scandalous Seduction by Eva Devon, the first book about the Briarwoods. The Briarwoods are a family that are originals. Their parents were a duke and an actress, which was not done. The children while participating in the season all had different ways to stand out. Lady Hermia was a wallflower. She was happy standing on the sidelines watching her sister become a diamond. She wanted her time to finish so she could retire to the country and live her life as she wanted.
Crispin, the Earl of Drexel, needed to marry. He doesn’t believe in love and wants a marriage of convenience. With his family getting anyone of quality to marry him (except for the money) would be difficult. He meets Hermia and offers her the life she desires if she will just marry him.
The adage, be careful what you wish for as you might get it, was something both of them should have appreciated. Neither expects love, nor expects the desire to spend time in each other’s company.
For secondary characters, I liked Hermia’s brothers, they made me laugh. I liked how the book ended. The Wallflower's Absolutely Scandalous Seduction by Eva Devon was a fun read.
Crispin, the Earl of Drexel, needed to marry. He doesn’t believe in love and wants a marriage of convenience. With his family getting anyone of quality to marry him (except for the money) would be difficult. He meets Hermia and offers her the life she desires if she will just marry him.
The adage, be careful what you wish for as you might get it, was something both of them should have appreciated. Neither expects love, nor expects the desire to spend time in each other’s company.
For secondary characters, I liked Hermia’s brothers, they made me laugh. I liked how the book ended. The Wallflower's Absolutely Scandalous Seduction by Eva Devon was a fun read.
June 1, 2024
Don't let your past define you
Crispin has been molded by a cold and aloof mother who tried to make him a perfect replacement for his older brother! He was never allowed to be himself or even find out who that was!
Lady Hermia Briarwood in her study of the Tons antics found her view blocked my Crispin! This began one of the most unlikely courtship/friendships imaginable!
Hermia thinks she wants a quiet cottage away from the Ton and her notorious Briarwood family!
Her mother a Duchess is a retired actress so they all have colorful names! There are several children and cousins do a huge clan but they all love each other!
Her brothers test Crispin to see if he will turn tail and run! He does not in the courtship!
When a man who has been in a war zone with cold and uninterested parents start to feel? He doesn’t know what to do with the explosion of emotions!
Crispin just may need help from his new family and very surprising ally! Bravo! Couldn’t put it down!
Crispin has been molded by a cold and aloof mother who tried to make him a perfect replacement for his older brother! He was never allowed to be himself or even find out who that was!
Lady Hermia Briarwood in her study of the Tons antics found her view blocked my Crispin! This began one of the most unlikely courtship/friendships imaginable!
Hermia thinks she wants a quiet cottage away from the Ton and her notorious Briarwood family!
Her mother a Duchess is a retired actress so they all have colorful names! There are several children and cousins do a huge clan but they all love each other!
Her brothers test Crispin to see if he will turn tail and run! He does not in the courtship!
When a man who has been in a war zone with cold and uninterested parents start to feel? He doesn’t know what to do with the explosion of emotions!
Crispin just may need help from his new family and very surprising ally! Bravo! Couldn’t put it down!
February 7, 2025
Three and a half ⭐️. This book started out really good, capturing my interest. I liked the chemistry between Hermia and Crispin, how they met and them dancing together. I liked her family, how they were different from the ton and marched to the beat of their own 🥁. I was surprised how the turn of events occurred, like in a different order than most historical romances. It was evident what the problem was going to be. I wished that was explored more as it was sudden and while made sense, a short ride. And the whole, you’ve got a family and don’t need to be alone, that was quick also. Plus the Duchess visiting the Countess, what a great scene of potential. The Countess’s turn around…that could have been explored too. It was like the Duchess waved her 🪄and ding, transformed. I enjoyed the epilogue. Cute how Crispin was such a devoted father. I wish we knew why he and Hermia got into those particular topics of politics though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2024
An Earl Worthy of Love
This is a great start to a new series. It was full of wit, humor, romance, and great characters. The character development was great for the main characters, Hermia and Crispin, as well as all the side characters. I loved the entire Briarwood. They were funny, especially the brothers, and the banter was entertaining. The way they lived for their passions and supported each other was really nice to see. I even grew to like Crispin’s stuffy mother once she changed.
This book is full of deep connections, strong family bonds, lots of love, and some steam. If you enjoy a good romance without villains to conquer other than their own emotions and childhood scars, then you will love this book. I would highly recommend this one.
This is a great start to a new series. It was full of wit, humor, romance, and great characters. The character development was great for the main characters, Hermia and Crispin, as well as all the side characters. I loved the entire Briarwood. They were funny, especially the brothers, and the banter was entertaining. The way they lived for their passions and supported each other was really nice to see. I even grew to like Crispin’s stuffy mother once she changed.
This book is full of deep connections, strong family bonds, lots of love, and some steam. If you enjoy a good romance without villains to conquer other than their own emotions and childhood scars, then you will love this book. I would highly recommend this one.
December 13, 2024
What an incredible start to The Notorious Briarwoods series! Though this was a short read, it was packed with life, emotion, and depth that left me utterly enchanted.
This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions—I fell in love, laughed out loud, cried, rejoiced, and celebrated alongside the characters. The writing was captivating, and the story had just the right balance of heartwarming moments and drama.
And let me tell you something very important about the Briarwoods: I want to be one of them! They are such a vibrant, loving, and unforgettable family that I couldn’t help but wish to join their world.
This book may be brief, but it’s brimming with personality and charm. If the rest of the series is anything like this, I’m in for a treat. Highly recommended!
This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions—I fell in love, laughed out loud, cried, rejoiced, and celebrated alongside the characters. The writing was captivating, and the story had just the right balance of heartwarming moments and drama.
And let me tell you something very important about the Briarwoods: I want to be one of them! They are such a vibrant, loving, and unforgettable family that I couldn’t help but wish to join their world.
This book may be brief, but it’s brimming with personality and charm. If the rest of the series is anything like this, I’m in for a treat. Highly recommended!
September 6, 2025
Oh Draxen
What a beautiful read. I took a liking to this intro to the series quite well. I still dont have a proper footing on how i like my lingo but this was digested pleasantly. Boy oh boy did that room scene break my heart. Damn those peeping toms. But alas. Society eh? Lol anyways. I felt for our Earl a lot. Many boys are reared that way. I love that his mother came around. I figured he wouldnt have fully moved on without her voicing that she has been posioning him since the death of her other son. Bless the heavens for the Hermia and her family. She did wonders. Wallflowers are quite potent are they not? Idk about flowers or that concept either lol. Overall a pleasant read.
What a beautiful read. I took a liking to this intro to the series quite well. I still dont have a proper footing on how i like my lingo but this was digested pleasantly. Boy oh boy did that room scene break my heart. Damn those peeping toms. But alas. Society eh? Lol anyways. I felt for our Earl a lot. Many boys are reared that way. I love that his mother came around. I figured he wouldnt have fully moved on without her voicing that she has been posioning him since the death of her other son. Bless the heavens for the Hermia and her family. She did wonders. Wallflowers are quite potent are they not? Idk about flowers or that concept either lol. Overall a pleasant read.
June 6, 2024
I enjoyed this book!
I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one. The main characters have depth and I am looking forward to seeing how all the characters grow through out the series. Although Crispan and Hermia’s story was lovely I am looking forward to seeing the Duchess and her son the Duke’s story emerge. Interesting that Ms Devon places the action in 1789, the eve of the French Revolution but only alludes to this. I would like to make a correction. There is no character called Helen in Much Ado About Nothing. Did Ms Devon mean Helena in A Midsummer’s Night Dream perhaps?
I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one. The main characters have depth and I am looking forward to seeing how all the characters grow through out the series. Although Crispan and Hermia’s story was lovely I am looking forward to seeing the Duchess and her son the Duke’s story emerge. Interesting that Ms Devon places the action in 1789, the eve of the French Revolution but only alludes to this. I would like to make a correction. There is no character called Helen in Much Ado About Nothing. Did Ms Devon mean Helena in A Midsummer’s Night Dream perhaps?
December 30, 2024
Ebook/ kindle unlimited
3.5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ✨
I wanted just a little “more” from this book. Was too instalove for me. Everyone was also too very self aware in my opinion. I don’t always love the 3rd act break up but not having one definitely made me miss them lol
There was no fighting/disagreements just instant trust no miscommunication. Wow he had a panic attack, not belittling him but wow a whole 2 weeks apart to figure that out , doesn’t seem long enough to me.
Also was more tell them show. As I’m writing this my rating keeps dropping 😬
I know I like these types of books and I haven’t read one in a very long time so I think I am grasping to any story
3.5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ✨
I wanted just a little “more” from this book. Was too instalove for me. Everyone was also too very self aware in my opinion. I don’t always love the 3rd act break up but not having one definitely made me miss them lol
There was no fighting/disagreements just instant trust no miscommunication. Wow he had a panic attack, not belittling him but wow a whole 2 weeks apart to figure that out , doesn’t seem long enough to me.
Also was more tell them show. As I’m writing this my rating keeps dropping 😬
I know I like these types of books and I haven’t read one in a very long time so I think I am grasping to any story
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2025
Everyone should have a Briarwoods family in their lives
Imagine a world where every single person was raised being loved for themselves and being taught to love others the same way. No one and no human creation can be perfect, so such a world is not possible, but I can't help but think our society would be less chaotic, frightening, and dangerous. That's what I imagine life under the Briarwoods' influence would be like. This tale is an incredible view of life truly worth living while at the same time introducing joyful, complete characters who know who they are and live out their gifts for the benefit of those around them. What a blessing this book is! Indulge!
Imagine a world where every single person was raised being loved for themselves and being taught to love others the same way. No one and no human creation can be perfect, so such a world is not possible, but I can't help but think our society would be less chaotic, frightening, and dangerous. That's what I imagine life under the Briarwoods' influence would be like. This tale is an incredible view of life truly worth living while at the same time introducing joyful, complete characters who know who they are and live out their gifts for the benefit of those around them. What a blessing this book is! Indulge!
April 25, 2024
This is the first book in a new series, The Notorious Briarwoods.
It is a wonderful story of Hermia, a wallflower who while at a ball watching her sister, has an encounter with the Earl of Drexel. He needs to marry, and she just wants to have a cottage and live her life alone. When he proposes a marriage of convenience she jumps at the chance.
I loved the chemistry and interaction between the two of them and her unconventional family.
This is a beautiful story as they realize their feelings for each other and how it all works out.
I can't wait for the next one in the series.
It is a wonderful story of Hermia, a wallflower who while at a ball watching her sister, has an encounter with the Earl of Drexel. He needs to marry, and she just wants to have a cottage and live her life alone. When he proposes a marriage of convenience she jumps at the chance.
I loved the chemistry and interaction between the two of them and her unconventional family.
This is a beautiful story as they realize their feelings for each other and how it all works out.
I can't wait for the next one in the series.
June 1, 2024
What a great start to the series
A bit of a different story, we are introduced to the Briarwoods, A large family full of love and spirit. They have the priests of being the family of a Duke and can push the limits. Hernia meets Crispin at a ball and things move quickly based on what each thought they wanted. This turned out to be the wrong way for their relationship. We meet Her Mia's mother and siblings, the are a big boisterous family and I look forward to their stories. Enjoy!
A bit of a different story, we are introduced to the Briarwoods, A large family full of love and spirit. They have the priests of being the family of a Duke and can push the limits. Hernia meets Crispin at a ball and things move quickly based on what each thought they wanted. This turned out to be the wrong way for their relationship. We meet Her Mia's mother and siblings, the are a big boisterous family and I look forward to their stories. Enjoy!
August 6, 2024
Good Characters, Different Take on Romance & Family
Eva Devon introduces the ' Notorious Briarwood Family" in the first book of a new series. These Characters are eccentric, passionately loyal to the family, and self-aware to an almost mystical degree. I couldn't help cheering for this odd ducal family and their efforts to bring the hero, Crispin, into a healthy marriage with their sister, Hermia.
Of course, Crispin is an idiot who ... Well, let's just say the young fellow needs to work hard to reach the family standards.
Highly recommended.
Eva Devon introduces the ' Notorious Briarwood Family" in the first book of a new series. These Characters are eccentric, passionately loyal to the family, and self-aware to an almost mystical degree. I couldn't help cheering for this odd ducal family and their efforts to bring the hero, Crispin, into a healthy marriage with their sister, Hermia.
Of course, Crispin is an idiot who ... Well, let's just say the young fellow needs to work hard to reach the family standards.
Highly recommended.
January 25, 2025
I liked the first half of this book a lot. Hermia is a great character although the idea of an attractive daughter of a duke with a good dowery managing to be a wallflower is rather a stretch. Up until the point of the scandalous incident the handling of the plot was light and humorous but then the drama seemed to go into overdrive and the book lost charm. Drexel who had been just a bit uptight then develops into this weird conflicted character.
I shall try more by this author, in hope of less drama and more light humorous romance.
I shall try more by this author, in hope of less drama and more light humorous romance.
April 11, 2025
There were people who didn't like this book? even DNF'd it?! I absolutely loved this book! If you like very little drama, or quick resolutions, and where the main focus is the MMC and FMC falling in love then you'll love this book. This was right up my alley and the FMC's brother really stole the show at some points and was such a character that I had to skip the 2nd book and jump straight to his (the 3rd book) because he is NUTS but in the most loveable way. After reading the first book I feel positive I just found myself a comfy long series to get into as there are 11 books :)
August 9, 2025
Adorable and Sweet
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters are colorful, the story was written from more than one perspective, the thoughts and fears were real, as was the panic attack. The story is mostly a "clean" romance, but don't let that stop you from a great story, if you generally read the clean and sweet variety, just skip the "Scandalous Seduction" scene and move forward to them finding their happily ever after, after a few more bumps on the way. Looking forward to the prophecy being fulfilled!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters are colorful, the story was written from more than one perspective, the thoughts and fears were real, as was the panic attack. The story is mostly a "clean" romance, but don't let that stop you from a great story, if you generally read the clean and sweet variety, just skip the "Scandalous Seduction" scene and move forward to them finding their happily ever after, after a few more bumps on the way. Looking forward to the prophecy being fulfilled!
December 9, 2025
Nature vs nurture
Growing up with a military OCD dad, a fun loving mom, and sibling can be a shock to someone who didn't. As Crispin only got to see the bad never the good. Getting that dose of much needed love can be shocking.
Crispin learns that the hard way but watching his struggle was fun. Hernia shows him how but Crispin does not understand. It takes a family intervention to open his eyes.
Can Hernia forgive him? Can Crispin really open himself? Enjoy this lighthearted family brighten you day with hijinx, comradery, and support.
Growing up with a military OCD dad, a fun loving mom, and sibling can be a shock to someone who didn't. As Crispin only got to see the bad never the good. Getting that dose of much needed love can be shocking.
Crispin learns that the hard way but watching his struggle was fun. Hernia shows him how but Crispin does not understand. It takes a family intervention to open his eyes.
Can Hernia forgive him? Can Crispin really open himself? Enjoy this lighthearted family brighten you day with hijinx, comradery, and support.
December 28, 2024
A great read
I enjoyed reading about Crispin and Hermia, how they met to how they fell in love. He had met a woman who was not afraid to tell him to move out of her way and not bow to him because he was an earl. He had not known love and had never felt he was doing the right thing. In the end he became the best father to his children. It was a very good HEA. I highly recommend this book! ❤❤❤❤❤❤👍👍👍👍👍👍
I enjoyed reading about Crispin and Hermia, how they met to how they fell in love. He had met a woman who was not afraid to tell him to move out of her way and not bow to him because he was an earl. He had not known love and had never felt he was doing the right thing. In the end he became the best father to his children. It was a very good HEA. I highly recommend this book! ❤❤❤❤❤❤👍👍👍👍👍👍
September 4, 2025
Mmm this didn't hit the mark...
There were parts to this historical romance I liked: I enjoyed the heroine and her family, I liked the setting of the story, and I found the hero to be very real and down to earth. But, ultimately the romance lacked for me. I wanted more time of just our couple getting to know one another and building that tension. That part fell flat for me.
Maybe I'll give this author another try sometime...
Reading Challenge 2025
September, D/W
There were parts to this historical romance I liked: I enjoyed the heroine and her family, I liked the setting of the story, and I found the hero to be very real and down to earth. But, ultimately the romance lacked for me. I wanted more time of just our couple getting to know one another and building that tension. That part fell flat for me.
Maybe I'll give this author another try sometime...
Reading Challenge 2025
September, D/W
November 1, 2025
First of all, this book should have 100 pages more to explore and explain the pinning and heartache between Crispin and Hermia.
And less of about “we’re family so we solve this together” out of nowhere, LIKE what in the world that chapter when the WHOLE blairewood family and his mother at the white’s 😭 i mean you can convince the message about “family will support you” in a normal and meaningful way, not whatever was that going on!
And less of about “we’re family so we solve this together” out of nowhere, LIKE what in the world that chapter when the WHOLE blairewood family and his mother at the white’s 😭 i mean you can convince the message about “family will support you” in a normal and meaningful way, not whatever was that going on!
November 14, 2025
This had all the parts of a good if not great regency novel, but honestly I couldn't get into it. Crispin didn't really strike me as a super memorable male lead to be quite honest, and Hermia was very much the same. They just didn't have a ton of depth so everything felt extremely surface level. The writing was good, and even the character cast was fun - I enjoyed Sylvia a lot and the family lore was amusing, especially their names, but nothing really struck me as super affecting or memorable.
May 19, 2024
Reaction
I enjoyed this story. The Briarwoods are a rather brash and boisterous family, of which quieter Hernia belongs. Crispin has been ordered to by his mother. In a spark of rebellion ad recognizing his attraction to her decides on a marriage of convenience. When he realizes that perhaps he wants more, he panics. Does he truly want change or fall into the usual.
I enjoyed this story. The Briarwoods are a rather brash and boisterous family, of which quieter Hernia belongs. Crispin has been ordered to by his mother. In a spark of rebellion ad recognizing his attraction to her decides on a marriage of convenience. When he realizes that perhaps he wants more, he panics. Does he truly want change or fall into the usual.
August 16, 2024
Let's be bold
I really like the Briarwoods and shall be reading more of the family stories. I love the idea of 'singing for your tea' as the entry price to the Duchess' salon. And as for the current duke, I hope we get his story as he sounds quite a character.
Nicely written with humour and empathy.
I really like the Briarwoods and shall be reading more of the family stories. I love the idea of 'singing for your tea' as the entry price to the Duchess' salon. And as for the current duke, I hope we get his story as he sounds quite a character.
Nicely written with humour and empathy.
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