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Lady Iris's Lover
Lady Iris Pembleton never thought she’d be as scared as she was the night she survived the Titanic. Until she was caught between feuding gangs in Liverpool eight years later. And it all started because she swore never to marry again.
Rowland Sinclair was accustomed to getting what he wanted. Whether with money or intimidation, he was usually successful, and became the most renowned gangster in Liverpool. So when a threatening new group arrived in his city, he couldn’t afford any distractions.
He never expected to meet the woman he’d been admiring in the papers for years. But when he went to collect a gambling debt from the Earl of Manfax, he finds the Earl’s sister, Lady Iris, is too much to resist.
The only problem is that Lady Iris has had only one thing on her mind since leaving her abusive ex-husband—to keep her newfound independence. And, not only that, but to help other women do the same.
Desperate to win her over, Rowland came up with an offer her brother couldn’t refuse. Cut the debt in half for one hour with Lady Iris.
Afraid of the gang war, losing her independence, and falling so unexpectedly in love, Lady Iris resisted Rowland as long as she could. Perhaps she didn’t have to have another husband. But a lover? Now, that would do just fine…as long as he wouldn’t try and change her mind.
Rowland Sinclair was accustomed to getting what he wanted. Whether with money or intimidation, he was usually successful, and became the most renowned gangster in Liverpool. So when a threatening new group arrived in his city, he couldn’t afford any distractions.
He never expected to meet the woman he’d been admiring in the papers for years. But when he went to collect a gambling debt from the Earl of Manfax, he finds the Earl’s sister, Lady Iris, is too much to resist.
The only problem is that Lady Iris has had only one thing on her mind since leaving her abusive ex-husband—to keep her newfound independence. And, not only that, but to help other women do the same.
Desperate to win her over, Rowland came up with an offer her brother couldn’t refuse. Cut the debt in half for one hour with Lady Iris.
Afraid of the gang war, losing her independence, and falling so unexpectedly in love, Lady Iris resisted Rowland as long as she could. Perhaps she didn’t have to have another husband. But a lover? Now, that would do just fine…as long as he wouldn’t try and change her mind.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2024
53 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 24, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐚𝐲 𝐜*𝐜𝐤.”
“𝑾𝒉𝒚? 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒂𝒅𝒚𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆?”
“𝐍𝐨, 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
Wow. I haven't had a book I've devoured in one sitting in a while. This was PHENOMENAL.
I already loved Iris from Ship of Dreams, and I knew I was going to love her story. I could not have anticipated exactly how much more I would love Iris by the end of this book. She is so strong and independent and fierce. She is rightfully guarded, but when she lets someone in she loves with her whole self.
Rowland. Oh my god. I am obsessed with him. I was obsessed with him by chapter 2. He is truly morally grey, but also an absolute cinnamon roll. He loves his family so completely and will defend them to the bitter end. He is thoroughly obsessed with Iris and he is the definition of "if he wanted to, he would". He puts in the work to earn Iris's trust and eventually love.
OMG the tension between these two. It is palpable. And THE BANTER. Y'all. It is SO GOOD. I literally couldn't stop reading. I want more. I want to start over immediately and read it again. And when the spice hits.... 😮💨😮💨😮💨.
While this is a standalone , I HIGHLY recommend that you read Ship of Dreams first. Not only is it incredible on its own, but it adds SO much to the depth of the characters in this book. Plus, then you get read about Sybil and Charles, and they are so adorable it hurts. I love how big of a role they play in this story and you need to read their story first to truly appreciate them.
“𝑹𝒐𝒘𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒅, 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒃𝒖𝒕…𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒖𝒔𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒅.”
“𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐧𝐨 𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝.” 𝐇𝐞 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐚𝐫. “𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫?”
Read July 14, 2024
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐚𝐲 𝐜*𝐜𝐤.”
“𝑾𝒉𝒚? 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒂𝒅𝒚𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆?”
“𝐍𝐨, 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
Wow. I haven't had a book I've devoured in one sitting in a while. This was PHENOMENAL.
I already loved Iris from Ship of Dreams, and I knew I was going to love her story. I could not have anticipated exactly how much more I would love Iris by the end of this book. She is so strong and independent and fierce. She is rightfully guarded, but when she lets someone in she loves with her whole self.
Rowland. Oh my god. I am obsessed with him. I was obsessed with him by chapter 2. He is truly morally grey, but also an absolute cinnamon roll. He loves his family so completely and will defend them to the bitter end. He is thoroughly obsessed with Iris and he is the definition of "if he wanted to, he would". He puts in the work to earn Iris's trust and eventually love.
OMG the tension between these two. It is palpable. And THE BANTER. Y'all. It is SO GOOD. I literally couldn't stop reading. I want more. I want to start over immediately and read it again. And when the spice hits.... 😮💨😮💨😮💨.
While this is a standalone , I HIGHLY recommend that you read Ship of Dreams first. Not only is it incredible on its own, but it adds SO much to the depth of the characters in this book. Plus, then you get read about Sybil and Charles, and they are so adorable it hurts. I love how big of a role they play in this story and you need to read their story first to truly appreciate them.
“𝑹𝒐𝒘𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒅, 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒃𝒖𝒕…𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒖𝒔𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒅.”
“𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐧𝐨 𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝.” 𝐇𝐞 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐚𝐫. “𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫?”
Read July 14, 2024
June 22, 2024
Wow! I waited to read “Ship of Dreams” because I thought I’d want to hold fast to the characters and immediately jump into “Lady Iris’s Lover” afterwards. I’m so glad I waited for the ARC to drop, so I could keep going. Although I enjoyed the friends to lovers trope from “Ship of Dreams,” I’m a huge fan of enemies to lovers and was completely invested in Lady Iris’s story.
Lady Iris is a complex and beautiful character that carries her experiences with incredible grace and strength. Immersed in 1920s England, Lady Iris explores her freedom while building on her leadership qualities by empowering others. She’s a character everyone wants to know and be around.
With all of the trauma she experienced, I had high hopes that her next love interest would offer the tenderness and care she needed but still be a little rough around the edges to play with her wit and snark. Rowland is the perfect compliment wrapped in a rugged, gritty gangster package. I couldn’t help but picture a version of Thomas Shelby while reading. Swoon!
Overall, this was a fast-paced, page turning historical romance that left me wanting more (in a good way). I felt as if I was a part of the found family and was invested in many of the characters, including Charlie and Sybil. I need more time with these people. Ha! The slow burn of enemies to friends to lovers was spot on with the decadent balance of gentleness and spice. Thank you, Kelsey Painter, for sharing your ARC with me!
Lady Iris is a complex and beautiful character that carries her experiences with incredible grace and strength. Immersed in 1920s England, Lady Iris explores her freedom while building on her leadership qualities by empowering others. She’s a character everyone wants to know and be around.
With all of the trauma she experienced, I had high hopes that her next love interest would offer the tenderness and care she needed but still be a little rough around the edges to play with her wit and snark. Rowland is the perfect compliment wrapped in a rugged, gritty gangster package. I couldn’t help but picture a version of Thomas Shelby while reading. Swoon!
Overall, this was a fast-paced, page turning historical romance that left me wanting more (in a good way). I felt as if I was a part of the found family and was invested in many of the characters, including Charlie and Sybil. I need more time with these people. Ha! The slow burn of enemies to friends to lovers was spot on with the decadent balance of gentleness and spice. Thank you, Kelsey Painter, for sharing your ARC with me!
June 7, 2024
After reading Ship of Dreams, I knew I needed more of Iris and this did not disappoint! I love her fierce independence, even if she let it hinder her from being loved at times. Rowland is just *chefs kiss* all I could picture was one of the guys from Peaky Blinders as him the whole time and if you read you’ll see why! I truly loved both books in this duet!
June 20, 2024
*Lady Iris's Lover* is a masterful blend of historical romance and thrilling drama, an enchanting tale that beautifully intertwines the gritty world of 1920s gangsters. This novel captivated me from the first page and held my heart in a tender grasp until the very end.
Characters:
Lady Iris Pembleton: A survivor of the Titanic and an abusive marriage, Iris embodies resilience and grace. Her sassy demeanor and strength are matched only by her immense compassion for others, making her a character you can't help but admire and root for.
Rowland Sinclair: As a gangster with a heart of gold, is the perfect counterpart to Iris. His protective nature, unwavering support, and sarcastic wit add layers to his character, creating a perfect blend of badassery and vulnerability. His devotion to Iris is palpable and heartwarming, making their journey from enemies to lovers an absolute delight.
Themes and Plot:
The novel’s rich tapestry is woven with themes of love, resilience, and found family. Kelsey excels in depicting the transformative power of love against a backdrop of danger and societal expectations. The enemies-to-friends-to-lovers trope is executed with finesse, and the chemistry between Iris and Rowland is electric, filled with witty banter and tender moments that make you smile, laugh, and even tear up.
Emotional Impact:
Reading *Lady Iris's Lover* was an emotional rollercoaster. From giggling at the sharp exchanges between Iris and Rowland to feeling my heart race during moments of peril, the storytelling was immersive. The heartfelt narrative made me feel deeply for the characters, blurring the line between fiction and reality.
Overall Experience:
*Lady Iris's Lover* was a heartfelt, easy-to-read novel that made me fall in love with its characters and their journey. I was fortunate enough to read an ARC, but I eagerly await the chance to own a paperback copy to annotate, reread, and cherish. I am certain it will hold a special place in my heart for years to come.
In conclusion, Kelsey Painter has crafted an extraordinary tale of love and resilience that is as thrilling as it is touching. *Lady Iris's Lover* is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-told historical romance with dynamic characters and a plot that keeps you hooked from beginning to end.
June 11, 2024
This is the perfect gateway drug from contemporary romance to historical fiction/historical romance. What a phenomenal follow up to Ship of Dreams.
While reading the first book in the duology I completely fell in love with Iris and who she is as a person. I love how complex of a character she was in that novel and how she is built upon in this one. I found myself completely agreeing with her thoughts and actions about family and love in some instances and disagreeing with her entirely in others. I debated these thoughts throughout the novel and I LOVE that. Honestly, I believe this is Painter’s best written character to date.
Let’s also talk about Rowland! Any of the issues I had with the romance or the love interest in the first novel are completely thrown out the door here. Rowland was an equally complex match for Iris and I love how naturally her storyline flowed into his throughout the story. I felt that Charles and Sybil’s relationship felt a bit rushed or forced in Ship of Dreams but these two in this novel were made for each other and I liked the slower burn of their relationship. I also felt the Peaky Blinders inspo coming through but never once felt like it was too much or that it was distracting.
It’s also worth talking about the historical aspects of this novel. Early 1920s England is a lot harder to write than the well known Titanic and I just want to applaud the author for being able to transport the reader to a time lesser known without a set historical event to guide the plot. I loved every second of historical detail.
I also want to talk about the pacing! The plot never felt rushed or too quick and yet I was NEVER bored. This story flowed so organically that I just wanted to savor every second. I really think that this pacing is what makes this book so special because it was so well done.
Just like Ship of Dreams, this novel is a perfect blend of historical detail and a more modern feeling romance. As someone whose favorite genre is typically a solid historical fiction drenched in crazy historical tidbits, this was so refreshing for me to read. I truly think that rom com readers and Kristin Hannah fans alike will enjoy this novel!
5 🌟
Kelsey, please never stop releasing historicals!
While reading the first book in the duology I completely fell in love with Iris and who she is as a person. I love how complex of a character she was in that novel and how she is built upon in this one. I found myself completely agreeing with her thoughts and actions about family and love in some instances and disagreeing with her entirely in others. I debated these thoughts throughout the novel and I LOVE that. Honestly, I believe this is Painter’s best written character to date.
Let’s also talk about Rowland! Any of the issues I had with the romance or the love interest in the first novel are completely thrown out the door here. Rowland was an equally complex match for Iris and I love how naturally her storyline flowed into his throughout the story. I felt that Charles and Sybil’s relationship felt a bit rushed or forced in Ship of Dreams but these two in this novel were made for each other and I liked the slower burn of their relationship. I also felt the Peaky Blinders inspo coming through but never once felt like it was too much or that it was distracting.
It’s also worth talking about the historical aspects of this novel. Early 1920s England is a lot harder to write than the well known Titanic and I just want to applaud the author for being able to transport the reader to a time lesser known without a set historical event to guide the plot. I loved every second of historical detail.
I also want to talk about the pacing! The plot never felt rushed or too quick and yet I was NEVER bored. This story flowed so organically that I just wanted to savor every second. I really think that this pacing is what makes this book so special because it was so well done.
Just like Ship of Dreams, this novel is a perfect blend of historical detail and a more modern feeling romance. As someone whose favorite genre is typically a solid historical fiction drenched in crazy historical tidbits, this was so refreshing for me to read. I truly think that rom com readers and Kristin Hannah fans alike will enjoy this novel!
5 🌟
Kelsey, please never stop releasing historicals!
July 21, 2024
Even as she was handcuffed, she remained dignified, and was quite possibly the most beautiful person he'd ever seen. She carried herself like an empress.
-----
This is book 2. It can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading the first book.
Content warning (not a complete list): kidnapping, murd3r (on page), explict s3x, reference of domestic violence, implied SA, and pregnancy termination/miscarriage
Spice meter: 3
-----
Iris was a strong and compassionate fmc. She was a woman ahead of her time. I admired Iris's strength, her determination to live on her own terms and her dedication to help abused women. This woman survived the sinking of the Titanic, survived a toxic and abusive marriage, was part of the suffragette movement and even got arrested because of it. What an icon. I loved Iris. Honestly, Iris is probably one of my favorite book heroines/fmcs.
Rowland was a great mmc. He was kind, clever and ruthless. This man was a gangster who showed no mercy to his enemies, but had a soft side for his loved ones. I enjoyed learning more about him. Rowland made a great match for Iris. Despite coming from different backgrounds, they were quite similar. I loved their banter. The way they went back and forth with each other was great, I ate it up.
Painter did a superb job with Lady Iris's Lover. While I enjoyed the first book, I loved this book. The writing was great and the characters were fantastic. I enjoyed the romance and adored seeing more of Sybil's and Iris's friendship. Painter is a talented writer.
I received an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review. I'm grateful I had the opportunity to read this book.
-----
This is book 2. It can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading the first book.
Content warning (not a complete list): kidnapping, murd3r (on page), explict s3x, reference of domestic violence, implied SA, and pregnancy termination/miscarriage
Spice meter: 3
-----
Iris was a strong and compassionate fmc. She was a woman ahead of her time. I admired Iris's strength, her determination to live on her own terms and her dedication to help abused women. This woman survived the sinking of the Titanic, survived a toxic and abusive marriage, was part of the suffragette movement and even got arrested because of it. What an icon. I loved Iris. Honestly, Iris is probably one of my favorite book heroines/fmcs.
Rowland was a great mmc. He was kind, clever and ruthless. This man was a gangster who showed no mercy to his enemies, but had a soft side for his loved ones. I enjoyed learning more about him. Rowland made a great match for Iris. Despite coming from different backgrounds, they were quite similar. I loved their banter. The way they went back and forth with each other was great, I ate it up.
Painter did a superb job with Lady Iris's Lover. While I enjoyed the first book, I loved this book. The writing was great and the characters were fantastic. I enjoyed the romance and adored seeing more of Sybil's and Iris's friendship. Painter is a talented writer.
I received an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review. I'm grateful I had the opportunity to read this book.
June 27, 2024
Firstly, I want to thank Kelsey Painter for again allowing me to read an arc of her second book in the Maid and Mistress Series. Buckle up because, girl, this one was a fun ride.
Following Lady Iris in the years after the traumatic experiences of the Titanic's sinking, she is trying to find her way in a rapidly changing world after divorcing her abusive ex-husband. She has become closer than ever to Sybil, our MFC of the first book. She is a glowing mother to two children with another on the way and is still blissfully married to our swoon-worthy man, Charles. Iris has blossomed into an advocate for abused women, survivors of the Titanic, and all women fighting for their rights in her ever-changing world. When Iris learns that her brother has created financial issues for himself, he wraps Iris in when he allows a gangster, Rowland, to have an hour with her. They begin as enemies and become allies in getting her brother to learn a bit of a lesson. They end up slowly becoming friends through flirting and witty banter, and Iris sees how Rowland treats women who have been abused and his niece. Iris has a firm resolve to never remarry after successfully divorcing her ex-husband. I honestly love Iris for never going back on this. So many heroines have changed their minds once they fall for the hero, and Iris makes Rowland work for it after he thinks he might be able to change her mind. BOY WAS HE WRONG. They can make their needs and wants known to each other so that they can move forward and make it work, and it was the sweetest end to a fabulous love story.
Following Lady Iris in the years after the traumatic experiences of the Titanic's sinking, she is trying to find her way in a rapidly changing world after divorcing her abusive ex-husband. She has become closer than ever to Sybil, our MFC of the first book. She is a glowing mother to two children with another on the way and is still blissfully married to our swoon-worthy man, Charles. Iris has blossomed into an advocate for abused women, survivors of the Titanic, and all women fighting for their rights in her ever-changing world. When Iris learns that her brother has created financial issues for himself, he wraps Iris in when he allows a gangster, Rowland, to have an hour with her. They begin as enemies and become allies in getting her brother to learn a bit of a lesson. They end up slowly becoming friends through flirting and witty banter, and Iris sees how Rowland treats women who have been abused and his niece. Iris has a firm resolve to never remarry after successfully divorcing her ex-husband. I honestly love Iris for never going back on this. So many heroines have changed their minds once they fall for the hero, and Iris makes Rowland work for it after he thinks he might be able to change her mind. BOY WAS HE WRONG. They can make their needs and wants known to each other so that they can move forward and make it work, and it was the sweetest end to a fabulous love story.
July 14, 2024
Rowland is my new book bf, sorry Iris.
I feel like I say this with every one of Kelsey Painter's books, but seriously, I blow through them so fast. I wish I'd been able to sit down, and read this one in one go, but alas, being a responsible adult got in the way.
If you've read Ship of Dreams, you already know Lady Iris. If you haven't, you should. Anyway, Lady Iris vowed never to marry after her ABSOLUTE TRAVESTY of a first marriage. She should've let the pig drown in the Atlantic. Anyway. Her idiot brother gets indebted to the Crimson Devils gang, and because he is an, he agrees to let Rowland have an hour with Iris to repay half his debt. (Don't worry folks, Rowland isn't like that.)
Look. I know we're not supposed to condone violence, and I don't IRL, but there is something about the kind of man who will rip your dress and tell you to lie and tell your brother a gang leader had his way with you for leverage, then turns around and buys you pearl earrings because he noticed you wear pearls. Like...come on. Walking red flag IRL, perfect man on paper.
As always, I freaking loved this book! It might be my favorite of Painter's books so far, or at least a tie with The Keeper and I.
I received an advanced copy for review, and hopefully you can tell from the amount of nonsense that this is definitely my own opinion.
I feel like I say this with every one of Kelsey Painter's books, but seriously, I blow through them so fast. I wish I'd been able to sit down, and read this one in one go, but alas, being a responsible adult got in the way.
If you've read Ship of Dreams, you already know Lady Iris. If you haven't, you should. Anyway, Lady Iris vowed never to marry after her ABSOLUTE TRAVESTY of a first marriage. She should've let the pig drown in the Atlantic. Anyway. Her idiot brother gets indebted to the Crimson Devils gang, and because he is an, he agrees to let Rowland have an hour with Iris to repay half his debt. (Don't worry folks, Rowland isn't like that.)
Look. I know we're not supposed to condone violence, and I don't IRL, but there is something about the kind of man who will rip your dress and tell you to lie and tell your brother a gang leader had his way with you for leverage, then turns around and buys you pearl earrings because he noticed you wear pearls. Like...come on. Walking red flag IRL, perfect man on paper.
As always, I freaking loved this book! It might be my favorite of Painter's books so far, or at least a tie with The Keeper and I.
I received an advanced copy for review, and hopefully you can tell from the amount of nonsense that this is definitely my own opinion.
July 5, 2024
Title: Lady Iris’s Lover
Author: Kelsey Painter
Format: ebook arc
Pub Date: July 26, 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance
Rating Out of 5: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice Level: open door
Summary:
Lady Iris Pembleton, a Titanic survivor, faces new fears in 1920s Liverpool amid gang rivalries. Determined to remain single after an abusive marriage, she dedicates herself to helping women gain independence. Rowland Sinclair, a powerful gangster, becomes captivated by Iris after meeting her while collecting a gambling debt from her brother. Despite her resolve, Iris finds herself drawn to Rowland, contemplating a passionate affair while striving to maintain her autonomy.
Thoughts:
I love this one even more than the first one! It was just the right of romance, drama, and action. I love the morally greyness of Rowland who gives me MAJOR high lord of the night court vibes. Cherry on top? I love that the happily ever after for Iris and Rowland isn’t the stereotypical “get married and have babies”. It’s nice to have a different outcome every once in a while.
Special thanks to the author for the arc in exchange for my honest review!
Author: Kelsey Painter
Format: ebook arc
Pub Date: July 26, 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance
Rating Out of 5: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice Level: open door
Summary:
Lady Iris Pembleton, a Titanic survivor, faces new fears in 1920s Liverpool amid gang rivalries. Determined to remain single after an abusive marriage, she dedicates herself to helping women gain independence. Rowland Sinclair, a powerful gangster, becomes captivated by Iris after meeting her while collecting a gambling debt from her brother. Despite her resolve, Iris finds herself drawn to Rowland, contemplating a passionate affair while striving to maintain her autonomy.
Thoughts:
I love this one even more than the first one! It was just the right of romance, drama, and action. I love the morally greyness of Rowland who gives me MAJOR high lord of the night court vibes. Cherry on top? I love that the happily ever after for Iris and Rowland isn’t the stereotypical “get married and have babies”. It’s nice to have a different outcome every once in a while.
Special thanks to the author for the arc in exchange for my honest review!
July 15, 2024
4.25 Stars
READ AS AN ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR A REVIEW
Safe to say this ATE DOWN. The second book in the Maid and Mistress duet, this follows Lady Iris, a pivot main character in Ship of Dreams as she tries to open a woman's home and not fall in love with gangster Rowland, who is desperately trying to be with her.
This was really sweet! Iris was my favourite in book 1 and i'm glad she's still her same self- really strong but funny and assured. I loved Rowland a lot here, i'm usually not into the "Criminal boss empire alpha dickhead" archetype but he's really funny and sweet, and you can tell he really likes Iris outside of her looks.
I also really liked how non traditional this was, with Iris both not wanting children or to be married- and i'm glad she didn't change her mind, it's far too often that "the power of love" magically cures women of this but it doesn't take away from the happy ending at all!
Great side characters, fun plot, good sex scenes, just overall a banger all around.
READ AS AN ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR A REVIEW
Safe to say this ATE DOWN. The second book in the Maid and Mistress duet, this follows Lady Iris, a pivot main character in Ship of Dreams as she tries to open a woman's home and not fall in love with gangster Rowland, who is desperately trying to be with her.
This was really sweet! Iris was my favourite in book 1 and i'm glad she's still her same self- really strong but funny and assured. I loved Rowland a lot here, i'm usually not into the "Criminal boss empire alpha dickhead" archetype but he's really funny and sweet, and you can tell he really likes Iris outside of her looks.
I also really liked how non traditional this was, with Iris both not wanting children or to be married- and i'm glad she didn't change her mind, it's far too often that "the power of love" magically cures women of this but it doesn't take away from the happy ending at all!
Great side characters, fun plot, good sex scenes, just overall a banger all around.
July 24, 2024
ARC review of Lady Iris Lover 🐚🤍⚓️
🦢 Kidnapping
💫 Enemies to Friends to Lovers
🌿 Strong FMC
🪞 Dual POV
I need to scream about this book, I'm so obsessed with Iris and Rowland it's not even funny! I really thought it couldn't get better after Kelsey's last release but this was so fantastic, this is absolutely one of my favourite reads this summer. ☁️
Iris is my absolute favourite character from this interconnected standalone series, she's so independent and literally survived the Titanic. 🪽
Rowland is your classic bad boy but with a historical twist, I love the old gangster vibes this is giving. He's really a teddy bear on the inside though! I especially loved the banter in this one, I love sweet romances too but there's just something about hate/dislike to lovers. Let's be clear though this is very clearly one sided dislike from Iris, Rowland was definitely obsessed from day one and I will not listen to any other opinions about it!! 🐇
🦢 Kidnapping
💫 Enemies to Friends to Lovers
🌿 Strong FMC
🪞 Dual POV
I need to scream about this book, I'm so obsessed with Iris and Rowland it's not even funny! I really thought it couldn't get better after Kelsey's last release but this was so fantastic, this is absolutely one of my favourite reads this summer. ☁️
Iris is my absolute favourite character from this interconnected standalone series, she's so independent and literally survived the Titanic. 🪽
Rowland is your classic bad boy but with a historical twist, I love the old gangster vibes this is giving. He's really a teddy bear on the inside though! I especially loved the banter in this one, I love sweet romances too but there's just something about hate/dislike to lovers. Let's be clear though this is very clearly one sided dislike from Iris, Rowland was definitely obsessed from day one and I will not listen to any other opinions about it!! 🐇
June 19, 2024
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book!
This book was so much fun. I was in a bad reading slump and this completely got me out of it. The banter was top notch, and Rowland is an EXCELLENT MMC. I fell in love with Iris in Ship of Dreams and she did not disappoint in this book. She’s strong, independent, and is unafraid to speak her mind.
Rowland was a man in love from the moment he laid eyes on Iris. I love the way he pursued her, and didn’t diminish her independence but instead welcomed and encouraged it. I also appreciated the depictions of his anxiety and PTSD post-WWI.
The action was so good. This book is Downton Abbey meets Peaky Blinders and it has the perfect mix of romance and gangster action. It also felt very historically accurate.
Kelsey Painter absolutely knocked it out of the park on this one!
🌶️🌶️/5
This book was so much fun. I was in a bad reading slump and this completely got me out of it. The banter was top notch, and Rowland is an EXCELLENT MMC. I fell in love with Iris in Ship of Dreams and she did not disappoint in this book. She’s strong, independent, and is unafraid to speak her mind.
Rowland was a man in love from the moment he laid eyes on Iris. I love the way he pursued her, and didn’t diminish her independence but instead welcomed and encouraged it. I also appreciated the depictions of his anxiety and PTSD post-WWI.
The action was so good. This book is Downton Abbey meets Peaky Blinders and it has the perfect mix of romance and gangster action. It also felt very historically accurate.
Kelsey Painter absolutely knocked it out of the park on this one!
🌶️🌶️/5
July 14, 2024
After reading "Ship Of Dreams" and loving Iris Pembleton I ✨️ needed ✨️ to read the second part of the "Maid and Mistress" duet. That's why I applied for the ARC and I have to say that I absolutely loved this book 🌼
With 250 pages, this book's a pretty light read, with few but well constructed characters, nice pace and funny dialogues. Rowland and Iris are an explosive mix and they're dynamic was wonderfully funny and adorable. I also liked reading a little bit of Sybil and Charles's life together.
Somehow I felt like I was inside some Downtown Abbey episode ✨️ I'm not going to go into heavy detail because I fear that if I do I might spoil it for you, but what you all need to know is that this duet of books complement each other wonderfully. While "Ship Of Dreams" has this drama, sweetness and angst, "Lady Iris's Lover" has the sass, humour and passion ⚡️
With 250 pages, this book's a pretty light read, with few but well constructed characters, nice pace and funny dialogues. Rowland and Iris are an explosive mix and they're dynamic was wonderfully funny and adorable. I also liked reading a little bit of Sybil and Charles's life together.
Somehow I felt like I was inside some Downtown Abbey episode ✨️ I'm not going to go into heavy detail because I fear that if I do I might spoil it for you, but what you all need to know is that this duet of books complement each other wonderfully. While "Ship Of Dreams" has this drama, sweetness and angst, "Lady Iris's Lover" has the sass, humour and passion ⚡️
July 25, 2024
Rowland kept raising my standards throughout the book. Set in the 1920s, Iris (a lady and a survivor of the Titanic) and Rowland's (a gangster and war veteran) relationship withstands the norms of their time. Taking place during a time in which women were still fighting for equality, it was refreshing to see Rowland be a supporting figure for Iris, believing in her goals and fighting for equality. Even as a notorious gang leader, Rowland's caring personality shines through his interactions with those he cares for. I would recommend this book to fans of Peaky Blinders or historical romance lovers. If you like reading books with historical background, and flirty banter, I'd recommend you pick this book up.
Thank you to Kelsey Painter for giving me a free copy in return for an honest review.
Thank you to Kelsey Painter for giving me a free copy in return for an honest review.
July 8, 2024
Ship Of Dreams, book 1 of the Maid and Mistress Duet, is the quintessence of romanticism. Lady Iris's Lover, book 2 of the series, is the quintessence of passion.
I fell in love with Iris when she was a side character in the first book of the series. Now that I finally got to read her story, I adore her and admire her even more! As a strong, unconventional, and pretty unique female character, she is the definition of fierceness and a true inspiration. Rowland, the equally unconventional male main character, is Iris's perfect match. He is the only one who can finally let her have a true happy ending. Their love story is fun, passionate, spicy, and totally swoony! And it will have you glued to the page from the beginning to the very end.
I fell in love with Iris when she was a side character in the first book of the series. Now that I finally got to read her story, I adore her and admire her even more! As a strong, unconventional, and pretty unique female character, she is the definition of fierceness and a true inspiration. Rowland, the equally unconventional male main character, is Iris's perfect match. He is the only one who can finally let her have a true happy ending. Their love story is fun, passionate, spicy, and totally swoony! And it will have you glued to the page from the beginning to the very end.
July 21, 2024
After reading Ship of Dreams, I knew I was going to love this book! Lady Iris was one of my favorite characters; she is the definition of girl power. She is such a strong female character and it was a breath of fresh air to see that she didn’t need a man to feel satisfied in her life. In walks Rowland Sinclair and if I were her I would have folded right then and there. That man is a one of a kind. He is morally grey and just perfect!
I absolutely loved their banter and every interaction they had. Rowland was so dynamic and I loved how we saw his soft side. The writing of this story was amazing and flowed really well. It read like a movie and once those intense scenes played out, I couldn’t put the book down. If you love Downton Abbey or Peaky Blinders I highly recommend this book!
I absolutely loved their banter and every interaction they had. Rowland was so dynamic and I loved how we saw his soft side. The writing of this story was amazing and flowed really well. It read like a movie and once those intense scenes played out, I couldn’t put the book down. If you love Downton Abbey or Peaky Blinders I highly recommend this book!
July 28, 2024
I see you Kelsey Painter making us fall in love with a bad boy gangster. I have found my new favorite trope and my first gangster book boyfriend Rowland Sinclair. I especially enjoyed seeing life for Lady Iris, Sybil, and Charles after surviving Ship of Dreams.
Eight years after surviving the Titanic, Lady Iris has two things on her mind: maintain her independence by never marrying again and providing women in need with a safe space and fresh start. Unaware that renowned gangster, Rowland Sinclair has been admiring her for years and finds her irresistible. Accustomed to getting what he wants, he will do anything to win her over. After trying to resist him for as long as possible, not only will Lady Iris find herself unexpectedly in love but also caught between feuding gangs.
Eight years after surviving the Titanic, Lady Iris has two things on her mind: maintain her independence by never marrying again and providing women in need with a safe space and fresh start. Unaware that renowned gangster, Rowland Sinclair has been admiring her for years and finds her irresistible. Accustomed to getting what he wants, he will do anything to win her over. After trying to resist him for as long as possible, not only will Lady Iris find herself unexpectedly in love but also caught between feuding gangs.
August 3, 2024
In book two we follow Lady Iris after her divorce from the New York railroad tycoon. She is back home in her family estate living with her brother Hugh. But Hugh has some issues. He borrowed money from the wrong people and now it's time to pay up.
Iris has been living the life of a single woman in the 1920's fighting for the right ti vote along with much much more. She finds a school house and decides she wants to turn it into a home for recently divorced women, but the bank isnt easy to work with. But she's caught the eye of a gangster and he's not letting her go.
Rowland the head of the Crimson Devils has his eyes set on Iris. But the Irish are in town and they are trying to take over his city. Can he keep her safe and keep the stronghold he has on the city?
This book has suspense, romance, peaky blinder feels, a protective mmc, a strong fmc and much much more!
Iris has been living the life of a single woman in the 1920's fighting for the right ti vote along with much much more. She finds a school house and decides she wants to turn it into a home for recently divorced women, but the bank isnt easy to work with. But she's caught the eye of a gangster and he's not letting her go.
Rowland the head of the Crimson Devils has his eyes set on Iris. But the Irish are in town and they are trying to take over his city. Can he keep her safe and keep the stronghold he has on the city?
This book has suspense, romance, peaky blinder feels, a protective mmc, a strong fmc and much much more!
July 26, 2024
Summary:
Lady Iris survived the Titanic and has fought for women’s rights since. She has sworn off relationships after divorcing her abusive ex-husband. Her brother, the earl, gambled money he can’t pay back. Raymond Sinclair gives him the option of giving him an hour with Lady Iris in exchange for half the debt or his life. This leads to an unlikely partnership between Iris and Raymond.
My thoughts:
I loved Iris’s character since book 1. This was set in the 1920s. For the time period, she had more balls than some of the men. The way Iris refused to conform to society was just well done in this book. She was a strong character who took charge and put the men in their place.
I liked how Iris used her past as a way to help others. The chemistry between Iris and Raymond was strong and slowly built for her. He was interested from the moment he saw her.
I continue to love @authorkelseypainter books. Thank you for the ARC.
Lady Iris survived the Titanic and has fought for women’s rights since. She has sworn off relationships after divorcing her abusive ex-husband. Her brother, the earl, gambled money he can’t pay back. Raymond Sinclair gives him the option of giving him an hour with Lady Iris in exchange for half the debt or his life. This leads to an unlikely partnership between Iris and Raymond.
My thoughts:
I loved Iris’s character since book 1. This was set in the 1920s. For the time period, she had more balls than some of the men. The way Iris refused to conform to society was just well done in this book. She was a strong character who took charge and put the men in their place.
I liked how Iris used her past as a way to help others. The chemistry between Iris and Raymond was strong and slowly built for her. He was interested from the moment he saw her.
I continue to love @authorkelseypainter books. Thank you for the ARC.
July 10, 2024
“Lady Iris’s Lover” is the follow up to “Ship of Dreams,” and as soon it was announced I knew I ABSOLUTELY HAD to read it!
Lady Iris is a true force to be reckoned with! Not only does she stand up for women’s rights, but she also champions for those who need help the most. Unfortunately, her brother is a bit of a jerk and ultimately makes some pretty poor choices and ends up in debt to Rowland Sinclair, leader of The Crimson Devils.
Rowland gives MAJOR “Peaky Blinders” vibes and has HUGE Tommy Shelby energy and I AM HERE FOR IT! He’s such a great MMC and falls somewhere between a morally grey and cinnamon roll MMC.
There is some violence mentioned as well as references to past domestic violence, so please keep that in mind.
The banter between Rowland and Iris is fantastic and had me laughing several times. An enemies to friends to lovers situation with INTENSE spice and slow burn!
The ending was great, and really tied up Iris’ story in a way that leaves you smiling. We do see Sybil and Charles again, and their interactions with Iris and Rowland felt genuine and authentic.
While I am sad to say goodbye to these wonderful characters, I know Ms. Painter has something else wonderful coming to us soon (I hope)!
Lady Iris is a true force to be reckoned with! Not only does she stand up for women’s rights, but she also champions for those who need help the most. Unfortunately, her brother is a bit of a jerk and ultimately makes some pretty poor choices and ends up in debt to Rowland Sinclair, leader of The Crimson Devils.
Rowland gives MAJOR “Peaky Blinders” vibes and has HUGE Tommy Shelby energy and I AM HERE FOR IT! He’s such a great MMC and falls somewhere between a morally grey and cinnamon roll MMC.
There is some violence mentioned as well as references to past domestic violence, so please keep that in mind.
The banter between Rowland and Iris is fantastic and had me laughing several times. An enemies to friends to lovers situation with INTENSE spice and slow burn!
The ending was great, and really tied up Iris’ story in a way that leaves you smiling. We do see Sybil and Charles again, and their interactions with Iris and Rowland felt genuine and authentic.
While I am sad to say goodbye to these wonderful characters, I know Ms. Painter has something else wonderful coming to us soon (I hope)!
July 24, 2024
I was hooked from the first page & read it in one sitting which I haven’t done in a while. Painter has such a way with writing her heroines, but I’ve especially adored the spirit & drive Iris exudes. A woman desiring purpose & her own independence, Iris will stop at nothing to make her mark on the world that doesn’t quite understand her. Rowland doesn’t want to hold her back or even take over her projects, but helps her flourish which is so important in a relationship & I love to see in stories. Iris & Rowland see each other as equals throughout the story, which was so beautiful to read. There’s spice, mystery/suspense, & plenty of banter that had me squealing throughout my read! I adored this book so much, it’s my top fave from Kelsey!
July 5, 2024
I’m sorry… did Kelsey just hand me my new favorite trope??? 1920’s gangsters?? Yes please!
I loved everything about this. Historical fiction isn’t something I usually gravitate towards, but this might be the beginning of my new era.
This is a great, fast-paced, enemies to lovers romance that did everything I wanted. The banter was on point, Rowland was wonderfully morally gray, and Iris’s character arc from the first book until now was so perfect and satisfying. I am totally in love with these characters!
I swear Kelsey’s books just get better and better. Beautifully written! I can’t wait for the next one!
Thanks for the ARC, Kelsey ♥️ it’s an absolute honor!
I loved everything about this. Historical fiction isn’t something I usually gravitate towards, but this might be the beginning of my new era.
This is a great, fast-paced, enemies to lovers romance that did everything I wanted. The banter was on point, Rowland was wonderfully morally gray, and Iris’s character arc from the first book until now was so perfect and satisfying. I am totally in love with these characters!
I swear Kelsey’s books just get better and better. Beautifully written! I can’t wait for the next one!
Thanks for the ARC, Kelsey ♥️ it’s an absolute honor!
July 6, 2024
This book had me laughing out loud, tearing up, and my heart racing! I absolutely loved Iris and her story, and who could help but love Rowland? These characters captured me from the first page and I was left thinking about them long after I finished the book. So, so good!
July 14, 2024
After reading ship of dreams .. i needed more and Kelsey gave it to us 👏🏼 lady iris is a baddie and i loved learning more about her.
If you’re wanting to try out historical romance .. this duet is the perfect start !
If you’re wanting to try out historical romance .. this duet is the perfect start !
July 27, 2024
lady iris is everything
I knew I would like this book. I hoped I would love it. I’m thrilled to say I was blown out of the water. Lady Iris is and always has been a queen. Kelsey wrote a beautiful, gorgeous, steamy story that I know I will want to revisit again and again
I knew I would like this book. I hoped I would love it. I’m thrilled to say I was blown out of the water. Lady Iris is and always has been a queen. Kelsey wrote a beautiful, gorgeous, steamy story that I know I will want to revisit again and again
July 9, 2024
After reading the first book, I HAD to have this one when I saw her announce it. It was better than I imagined. Loved it! Gangster, tough as nails Lady, and the banter was all soooo good! Yessss!!!!
August 4, 2024
After reading "Ship of Dreams" earlier this year, I was very intrigued to hear more about Lady Iris, so I was thrilled when Kelsey announced "Lady Iris’ Lover." This historical fiction book blends a 1920s gangster vibe with morally grey men, strong-willed women, and all the banter and sass. It is quite spicy, with intense scenes in chapters 19, 20, 23, and 31, which were a bit much for me. Additionally, due to references to domestic violence and implied assault, approach this book gently if these topics are sensitive for you. Despite skipping through the spicy scenes, I was still able to fully enjoy the story. Lady Iris, who has been through the wringer with her ex-husband, emerges as a strong-willed woman fighting to better the rights of women and support those who have had similar experiences. I truly enjoyed this book and admired Iris's resilience and dedication.
August 17, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️
January 4, 2025
Forgive me, Miss Kelsey, for I have sinned…🙈 It’s been two months… TWO WHOLE MONTHS since Lady Iris’s Lover came out, and I’m only just writing this review! To atone for my tardiness, I devoured this masterpiece on a hot, sandy beach in Turkey🏖️ And oh my goodness, this book brought me absolute joy.
Lady Iris Pembleton, a survivor of the Titanic and a woman on a mission to protect her newfound independence after escaping an abusive marriage, never thought she’d cross paths with Rowland—Liverpool’s most infamous gangster. He’s been admiring her from afar for years, and now he’s desperate to win her over. But Iris isn’t one to give in easily.
Wow. Just WOW! I couldn’t have anticipated how much I’d fall for Lady Iris. And Rowland… If you love Peaky Blinders as much as I do (Tommy forever🫶🏼), you’ll fall HARD for this man😍🔥
I couldn’t put this down if I tried. And I 1000% recommend reading Ship of Dreams first.
Lady Iris Pembleton, a survivor of the Titanic and a woman on a mission to protect her newfound independence after escaping an abusive marriage, never thought she’d cross paths with Rowland—Liverpool’s most infamous gangster. He’s been admiring her from afar for years, and now he’s desperate to win her over. But Iris isn’t one to give in easily.
Wow. Just WOW! I couldn’t have anticipated how much I’d fall for Lady Iris. And Rowland… If you love Peaky Blinders as much as I do (Tommy forever🫶🏼), you’ll fall HARD for this man😍🔥
I couldn’t put this down if I tried. And I 1000% recommend reading Ship of Dreams first.
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