A Sinful Deception

Breconridge Brothers #2

by Isabella Bradford

Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy leads a charmed existence. As the second son of the Duke of Breconridge, he has none of the responsibilities of his older brother and all of the advantages, leaving handsome Geoffrey free to enjoy his rakish pursuits. And pursue them he does, leaving hearts fluttering all over London. But one night, at a ball teeming with high society’s most sought-after beauties, only one truly intrigues him: the regal, aloof, and mysterious Miss Serena Carew.
 
Magnificently dressed and wearing jewels befitting a queen, the lady is considered the prize of the season, a noble-born heiress raised in India. But even as Geoffrey’s fascination grows, Serena deftly deflects his curiosity—and with good reason: Serena’s exotic past contains a perilous secret that could destroy her. Yet her plan to live in safe solitude is thwarted by her hungry heart, and soon Geoffrey’s passionate seduction finds her blissfully bed—and wed. Will her deception destroy her chance at happiness as Geoffrey’s wife? Or will the devotion of her new husband reveal the only truth worth embracing: her undying love?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, British Literature, Adult, Regency Romance

386 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 24, 2015

About the author

Isabella Bradford is a pseudonym for Susan Holloway Scott, the award-winning author of more than fifty historical novels and historical romances. Her bestselling books have been published in nineteen countries and translated into fourteen languages with more than three million copies in print. Bradford also writes as half of the Two Nerdy History Girls (twonerdyhistorygirls.com), an entertaining history blog and Twitter account (@2nerdyhistgirls) with an international following. She is a graduate of Brown University, and lives with her family outside of Philadelphia.

Reviews

[Jonetta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Confirmed bachelor Geoffrey Fitzroy approached the aloof, exotic Lady Serena Carew at a gala event on a dare. She had a reputation for maintaining distance from her many suitors and Lord Geoffrey loved a challenge. After their initial introduction, it was kismet. The bet was forgotten and the two became enthralled with each other after discovering a unique connection. However, Serena is keeping a major secret related to her life in Calcutta, India that no one knows and it could change everything.

It didn't take long for the inevitable to happen and both Geoffrey and Serena were faced with a betrothal neither wanted...at first...she because of her deception and he because he didn't think he was ready.

I loved Geoffrey and Serena! She has a lovely spirit influenced by her roots in Calcutta. He's charming but genuinely so and recognizes Serena's special qualities pretty quickly. Her secret is pretty explosive and it's central to the story, driving a slight wedge in the relationship as he tries to gain her complete trust.

The story's climax is different from my typical experience in this genre and it's exciting. The dialogue appears very true to the era and I love how the dresses on the covers for Bradford's books are always featured in the story, adding an authenticity that's rare these days. And, though this may not be historically accurate, the romance is steamy and sensual. Still loving this writer and the series.

(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)

[Caz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've given this a C at AAR - 3 stars.

I was intrigued by the blurb for this, the second in the author’s Breconridge Brothers series, because the heroine, Lady Serena Carew, is described as being “a noble-born heiress raised in India”, which is a little out of the ordinary for the genre. I will admit to having been slightly underwhelmed by Ms Bradford’s previous trilogy (I rated all three books at between 3 and 4 stars), but was interested enough in this one to be willing to give the author another try.

The story is a fairly simple one of two young people who have their own reasons for not wanting to marry (at all), and whose families would wish other matches for them - but who are drawn to each other so strongly that those considerations become unimportant in the face of their desire for each other. The problem, however, is that I wasn’t convinced that what the hero and heroine felt for each other was much more than desire, and that meant that I came away from the book feeling as though there was something lacking.

Lady Serena lost her beloved father and her half-sister when she was just a child, as the result of a virulent illness which struck their home and killed everyone except her. Rescued when close to death, she was torn from the arms of her dead sister and carried away, almost through the flames, as the house was burned to the ground to wipe out the infection. She now resides in London with her grandfather, an elderly but rather ferocious marquis who is incredibly protective of her, unwilling to accept any suitor but those of the highest pedigree.

Sadly, his list doesn’t include Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy, the second son of the Duke of Breconridge. Breconridge may be a duke, but his lineage is tainted by bastardy, which is tantamount to heresy in the marquis’ book! Still, Geoffrey has nothing more in mind than a flirtation, perhaps some kissing, when he bets his brother that he will be able to get the reputedly aloof Lady Serena to dance with him at a ball. Geoffrey is well aware of the effect his handsome face and form have on the ladies, and is utterly assured of his success. He does indeed manage to persuade Serena to dance with him, and then out on to the darkened terrace and into a surprisingly personal conversation – which is when it hits him that his heart could be in as much danger as the lady’s reputation.

Lady Serena has cultivated an unflappable, aloof persona in the years she has spent in society for what she believes to be a good reason – she has no intention of getting married. Her secret – the one she has kept since she left India – makes her an unfit mate for a member of the aristocracy, and while her more liberal upbringing among Indian society has made her aware of the ways in which men and women can pleasure each other, she doesn’t want to experience it by the only way open to her in English society.

So Serena wants a lover rather than a husband, and Geoffrey, at twenty-five, thinks he’s too young to get married. Yet they are unable to stop thinking about each other, or trying to find ways to be in each other’s company – and eventually are caught in a compromising situation and forced into marriage. Geoffrey is rather surprised to find that he isn’t at all dismayed by the idea, other than by the fact he worries that Serena is being forced into something she doesn’t want. The shine is taken off their honeymoon period somewhat by the recurrence of Serena’s nightmares about her final days in India – but other than that, they spend a couple of blissful couple of weeks bonking like bunnies, and Serena allows herself to forget, for a while, her reasons for not wanting to get married.

I had some serious issues with this aspect of the story – not so much the secret itself, as given the time at which the book is set, Serena’s reasoning is understandable. It’s also understandable that she doesn’t have a conversation with Geoffrey about it before their wedding – she is prevented from seeing him. My problems are with the resolution, because when Geoffrey finally finds out, he pretty much hand-waves it away, as does the rest of his family. In some ways his reaction is commendable – he loves his wife for the woman she is and that’s enough for him. But it’s dealt with so easily that it falls flat and destroys any dramatic tension that has been built previously.

Despite his initial arrogance, Geoffrey is a likeable character who grows up a bit during the course of the story, and his unconditional acceptance and love for Serena after he discovers her secret are admirable. Unfortunately, however, Serena is less engaging, because it seems that Ms Bradford spent so much time emphasising her exotic appearance, language, mannerisms and, above all, her “Indian-ness”, that she forgot to give her an actual personality apart from it. She’s contradictory at the beginning of the book – one minute insisting on maintaining her ice-queen persona, and the next, being bowled over by Geoffrey’s rather obvious attempts at flirtation. In fact, I thought it was going to turn out that Serena was just playing along with Geoffrey and simpering a bit before showing him she was wise to his game and storming off. But no, she really was buying his guff, and came across as too naïve for my taste.

There’s no doubt that A Sinful Deception is a well-written book, and that the heroine’s having been brought up away from the restrictions of English society is a refreshing change. But the ending is rushed, the characterisation is weak and there’s no real depth of emotion to the central relationship. That, together with the fact that deception of the title isn’t particularly sinful – especially as it’s not really anyone’s fault – means that the book was a bit of a disappointment overall.

[Susan (susayq ~) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why haven't I read anything by Isabella Bradford before? I own several of her books and for some reason they've been pushed to the side. I'll be digging them out since I've had a taste of her writing :)

This was the perfect mix of romance and angst. Serena Carew had a secret. A big secret that no one knew. At least that is what she thought. She's spent the last 10 or so years in London after being rescued from her father's home in India. She is exotic and rather aloof and Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy, being the lady's man he is, knows he can have her. What Lord Geoffrey doesn't expect is to fall in love with her. But fall in love is exactly what he does. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end, knowing he would find out her secret. I knew he loved her enough that it wouldn't matter, and it didn't :)

I'll be going back and reading Harry and Gus's story and I'll be waiting for River's story in this series.

ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Geoffrey Fitzroy, is the second son, and enjoys everything that London has to offer. He is a appreciator of women, but has yet to meet a woman to hold his passion and heart, until he meets Serena Palmer. Serena is a exotic beauty, and grew up in India, but she has a horrific past, and Serena is determined to stay unattached and never to marry. When Geoffrey sees her at a ball, he can't resist dancing with her, but then he is captivated by Serena and how set apart she is from the others. And even though their relationship is forbidden by her grandfather, they can't seem to resist the desire they share for each other. But there are truths that Serena is keeping from Geoffrey, secrets that could destroy their bond to each other...

A Sinful Deception, is the second book in the series and does start off from where the last began. But it can be read as a stand alone if needed as well, but I would recommend if possible to read this series in order. This story is quite different from the last, as far as the set up and the characters. I really had a enjoyable time with this one. I think I enjoyed the first book a little bit more, but A Sinful Deception was quite a fun read and I had such a joy with these characters. They were a hoot of entertainment.

The story sets off with seeing Geoffrey and Serena first meeting at a ball, and usually Serena denies herself dancing, however when Geoffrey asks her, she accepts her and soon that sets off their quiet courtship that they tend to keep from everyone. The story is a bit slow to begin, but stick with it because it picks up. I loved what a sweet tone to the story there was, you find that there is quite a connection between these two, and despite other circumstances, they both remain dedicated to each other no matter what their families may say. I loved how much faith and loyalty they had for each other from the beginning. The secret that Serena is keeping only adds more depth to the story and you see how it creates a guessing game for the reader...I kept wondering when and how this secret will come out. Because as the reader you know, but the mystery is knowing how it will turn about in the story and what affect it has on the story. I have to say that after reading this I was quite enthralled by the way you see their relationship grow from beginning to end. There are many things that both of them learn, and they learn it together. The heat in the story is not too heavy, and I enjoyed how light it was, and seeing more in the development of the plot and building up of the characters. I loved how real the romance felt, and the way that this author creates a love story is tender and sweet. UNFORGETTABLE!!!

[Lady Wesley · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

My thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for an advance copy of this book.

[Gina]

DNF @ 25%

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Original Post 3/9/2015
A SINFUL DECEPTION: Eggs and Issues

http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...

A young Lady with a secret she has maintained through strict discipline finds that past threatened when she falls in love with the second son of a well-connected duke.

MY TAKE:

There’s a clever device in A SINFUL DECEPTION of the brothers in this series getting together to have breakfast each morning and hashing out their problems and differences. It reminded me of a local lecture series: Eggs and Issues – hence my title. This is a series, but this book stood quite well on its own.

I was instantly drawn into this story as Isabella sets up the first meeting between the love interests, Geoffrey and Serena. WHy is she so aloof and secretive? Why does she freak out when Geoffrey addresses her in another language? Her terrible secret could toss her on the street and out of the life of a member of the Ton.

And, for some time, I wondered if the relationship and the story would have an non-standard outcome: an HEA but no wedding bells. When Serena’s uncle gets into the mix, even going so far as to abuse Serena’s elderly aunt, I began to think the story might have a different bent to it and end up as a police procedural!

I think the main themes of the story are actually “women’s issues,” with racial issues being secondary. Serena is essentially powerless against her grandfather and uncle. the uncle’s mistreatment of her aunt points strengthens the point that women held no sway over the male members of their family, except as the man’s discretion. Once married, Serena would have no control over her own money and would have received an allowance dictated by an agreement entered into upon marriage.

There was a lot of British presence in India and you know some of the men sent there brought home Indian wives. But, would they have been accepted in society? Would being higher up in society have been better or worse for what would have been seen as a mixed race marriage. Were there laws in Britain against mixed-race marriage as existed in the US?

Even though I was immediately drawn to the story, and as much as I was intrigued by what Serena’s terrible secret could be, I found parts of the story a bit expository — more “telling” than showing. It felt disjointed. I was further alienated by the mixing in of concepts from a variety of sources outside the either character’s experience (and that is admitted to in the book). My impression was of the story being a dictated outline. I felt as if the author was distracted, or even bored, as she wrote.

It’s funny — sometimes I think a writer must have had an idea for a story requiring certain ideas but the period or culture they are writing in doesn’t have that idea and they figure in some kind of machination to connect the two. Sometimes it works and sometimes it is too obvious. But, then again, I should probably refrain from assuming I understand a writer’s motivation or intent.

We are shown action, and are privy to a lot of the moments between the brash and arrogant Geoffrey and the mercurial and secretive Serena that shows how they fall in love against their own wills. There is an implication that Serena’s genetics and upbringing do make her a more passionate woman than your average English rose.

I was struck by how emotionally immature she was considering how much she knew about life given where she grew up and how much she had gone through. I mention Serena’s mercurial nature and that comes from my confusion over what Serena said she would do in a situation and what she did when faced with it. Sometimes she was confused by that too. It pulls the story along with that odd cultural mixing I also mention above.

I don’t believe I have read Isabella Bradford before, under any of her pseudonyms, but I do know she is immensely popular and that different readers like different styles of writing. My preference is for a more flowing piece where there are fewer gaps between initial emotions and convictions, and the realization of being in love.

[Gerrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 out of 5 stars or B-

I had a difficult time deciding just how to rate this book. It was a very good book in so many ways. I've read several of this author's historical fiction novels, which she writes as Susan Holloway, and I've greatly enjoyed them. Her historical research is impeccable, and she's a fine writer who makes the history interesting and engaging, and seamlessly balances it with the story . And she usually does a great job in developing and flushing out her characters. Plus, she's really skilled at writing about relationships. She develops and unfolds them beautifully. The same goes for her historical romances, which she writes under the name of Isabella Bradford.

Also, both this book - the second in a trilogy - and the first book in the trilogy, have such an authentic feel. No anachronisms, misuse of titles, mistakes about inheritance laws,and the like. Her characters are very much people of their time. And her hero and heroine have truly serious issues to deal with, ones that really grabbed me as a reader and kept me engrossed throughout the entire book.

In this book there is a big secret. It's a trope I usually hate, but here it's done so well - and the consequences of the secret being revealed are so calamitous - that I totally accepted it. My problem is the ease with which the big reveal was resolved. At one point, one of the characters talked about resolving everything with a legal trial. I would've liked to have seen something like that, but certainly there should have been much more dire consequences for the hero and heroine to overcome. And I didn't find the family's reaction to be at all realistic. I usually don't compare books, but I recently read Freedom to Love which had a very similar secret. The reveal of that secret did have great consequences, both within the family and publicly, which were realistic obstacles of their time for the hero and heroine of that book.

So, this book would have been a solid 4 - 4.5 stars for me if not for what I considered a letdown about the consequences of the big secret. That being said, I still find Isabella Bradford to be a first-rate writer, and I look forward to the next book in the trilogy, and to reading her future historical romance novels.

[Katherine P · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm running a little low on historical romance authors right now so when I see a new to me author it's hard to resist - especially when the cover is gorgeous (and the heroine is wearing a dress that actually appears in the book!) and the blurb compares the book to Julia Quinn, Sabrina Jeffires, and Eloisa James.

This wasn't the fun romp that I normally associate with Quinn but I found the comparison to Jeffries and James to be spot on. Serena is a serious young woman who has been through some incredibly traumatic events and has the weight of a very dangerous secret on her shoulders. The attraction between Geoffrey and Serena feels real. They share a common love of India as well as a deep connection to the country. It feels natural that they would feel an immediate connection to each other because of that common ground. Serena herself comes off as very real. She's very conflicted between her growing affection and attraction to Geoffrey and knowing that she must keep away from him in order to keep her secret.

Now I'm not a big fan of secrets generally but Bradford does a good job with Serena's secret. For one thing her secret is a serious secret. This isn't one where you want to reach into the book, give the heroine a good shaking, and yell "Just tell him already!". This is a real secret and even better a secret that you can understand her getting in the middle of and a secret that she really must keep. Also, the reader discovers what it is within the first 15% of the book.

Geoffrey is a more typical character. He's somewhat misunderstood by his father who sees him as irresponsible and selfish. He has no intention of getting married even though he finds himself spending more and more time with Serena. I really liked that his thoughts weren't just about bedding her. There's a scene where he imagines her receiving roses he had sent her that is really sweet.

Overall: This is an interesting romance with more heft to it than I usually expect and unusual characters. If you enjoy Sabrina Jeffries I think you really must read Isabella Bradford.
Rating: 4 Stars

Full review: http://iwishilivedinalibrary.blogspot...

[Eva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book from Netgalley for an honest review. How can you not love this story? I mean there are so many twists … something for me – 100%
“A Sinful Desception” is book #2 in the “Breconridge Brothers”-Series by Isabella Bradford.

There is Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy – a handsome rake who doesn’t plan to get married. One night he sees her – Serena. She’s not like every other woman. She ignores him. She ignores every single man, doesn’t dance or anything else. She simply attends musicales etc. with her aunt (well, great aunt if I remember correctly). But we don’t know from the very beginning is that Serena isn’t who she seems to be. But you have to find out about that yourself. She’s a mysterious young woman who grew up in India and always feels cold in England. Her family died of a fever and she was sent to England to live with her grandfather. A funny thing is that her grandfather doesn’t thing well of the Breconridge family because of their family tree/line. It’s kind of funny but I can imagine that this had been a huge problem back in the good old Regency times. Serena doesn’t plan to get married nor does Geoffrey but they feel this bond between the two of them very quickly. There is tension. Passion. Everything but they aren’t allowed to play along in public of course. They have to find their ways ….

+
Oh I loved it. How couldn’t I? I mean Geoffrey is a rake and Serena is a lovely young lady with a background – I don’t want to spoiler anybody here – which isn’t that easy to deal with. I mean there is a story.
It was my first Bradford novel and I really liked her style. Probably I will buy the 1st too because I want to know the story of Harry and Gus – I already like Gus a lot from just reading this novel. Something I also liked a lot are the Hindi lines in the book which are able to bring those two very stubborn characters together the very first time. There were a few books on my kindle dealing with people coming back from India but non included Hindi lines. Not that I can speak this language but it made this book special to me.
Rating 5*****

[WTF Are You Reading? · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Sinful Deception, the second offering in the (Breconridge Brothers series) proves just as captivating as it's predecessor.
This time it is the secrets and hidden passions of the exotic Indian born blossom Serena Carew, that serve to stoke passion's flame and enthrall the minds of one Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy, and readers alike.

The granddaughter of the Marquis of Allwyn, and the only surviving heir to her father's sizable fortune.
It is no wonder that the raven haired beauty with the somewhat guarded demeanor has tongues wagging and fortune hunters dogging her every footfall.

But for Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy, golden second son of the Duchy of Breconridge, the allure of young Miss Carew lies neither in the depth of her purse, nor the charms of her visage. He it seems hears the call of a far more insistent master...the inescapable hand of kismet.
From their first furtively shared glances, to their mutual understanding and love for her native Hindi tongue, it is clear from the start that she is made for him, and he for her and no other.

That is of course if the fires of their passion and the ferocity of their love can withstand a secret from her past.
A secret of such import, that if discovered it could strip her of both her love and her fortune, and change the course of her life forever.

This is a brilliant tale of love, lies, and survival all wrapped up in the finery of English society.
In fact, it is that reliance on societal niceties that throws things off course for the first few chapters as readers sit through the superfluous back and forth of "I really like you but..." that romances of this ilk seem to demand.

If one can manage to make it through Serena and Geoffery's game of peek-a-boo with the truth of their feelings; they will find the wait and frustration well worth the reward.
As feelings deepen, desires are realized, secrets are unearthed, and schemes and disasters are averted, readers are treated to a book brimming with plot twists, great love scenes, and tied together with a very dramatic "happily ever after bow".

[Shauni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy

Oh this was good!!

Susan Holloway writing as Isabella Bradford gives us her second book in her fabulous Breconridge Brothers Series and I promise it totally lives up to book one, A Wicked Pursuit. *Whispers* it might be even better.

Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy, second son to the Duke is what we would call a playboy.. but a fun loving much desired playboy, think Prince Harry. Suave and smooth, rakish and randy.. he's every girls dream. Totally swoonworthy and a sure catch. But Lord Geoff has not desire to be caught. Nope he's having too much fun. But just a moment with the silent and serene Miss Serena Carew. Only she isn't interested. Of course that just captures his attention.

Miss Serena Carew. spent her early life in India until disease literally killed off her entire household. Sent to live with her grandfather she is doted on, treated like a princess and all her family wants is for her to make a good match. Only Serena has a secret.. All Serena wants to do is live quietly and hide her secret so she walks a fine line between what her grandfather wants and what she knows she must do. Only she seems to be constantly tripping over Lord Geoff and seriously, who can ignore him.

There is so much more to this book than Lord Geoff and Miss Serena.. Someone knows Serena's secret and wants to make her pay. Her toad of an uncle, the actual heir, thinks her money (the money her father earned) should be his and he is willing to basically destroy her to get it. And Serena fears that loving Lord Geoff will bring him down.

OOOOO this book is good!! I loved it. Ms. Bradford writes a wonderful tale of love and intrigue and I didn't want it to end!

Shauni



This review is based on the ARC of A Sinful Deception, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on February 24, 2015

[Esther · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review coming closer to publication.

I can’t quite rate it a 3 more like a 3.5 but gave it a 4 rating.

Geoffrey and Serena. I like them both well enough, but something was missing that didn’t sell me completely on them. The story line I liked, it was something different and was pretty interesting plot. Pacing of the book was okay. Overall it was a book to pass the time but not one I HAD to get back to.
Geoffrey and Serena’s romance was more instant lust and for some reason didn’t resonate with me (read books like that before and some work this one didn’t) and not sure why. The steam factor was good and their chemistry was warm (best way for me to put it). But circumstance played out in that they had to marry and their story became more interesting and pulled me in more at that point. The secondary characters where fine.

So I would recommend this book to pass the time.


Book from Netgalley for honest review.

[Verity W · Rating 3 out of 5]

******Copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review*****

Another fun historical romance with a quirky plot and interesting heroine. I was puzzled for a while as to how it was going to work out happily and was intrigued and pleased with the resolution. The love scenes were sexy, the hero was an attractive rogue (even if his name was Geoffrey - which is a name which reads nerd or accountant to me) and the secondary characters were interesting. I haven't read any Isabella Bradford before, but I liked that this wasn't a cookie cutter historical - and still didn't feel like it was stretching the bounds of possibility outrageously. So I'll be looking out for more from Isabella Bradford.
Perfect post-nightshift reading.

[Dianne Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an entertaining story of Miss Serena Carew and Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy. They meet at a ball and both realize there is something special about the other. Serena spent her early years in India raised by her father with her half sister. When her entire family is killed by a fever, she is rescued at the last minute by an English doctor and some soldiers. Now she has nightmares about that night. When she and Lord Geoffrey are caught in a compromising situation, they marry. Rumors abound about Serena fueled by her Uncle Radnor, a mean spirited, greedy man who wants to disclaim Serena as his brother’s child by his Scottish wife. Since Sarena fears someone will discover her secret, she runs away. Her real story is brought to light, but instead of turning her out, her husband and his family support her because her husband loves her. What happens when her Scottish”relative” is brought to her home by her uncle?

[Minerva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review:

 

Rating:

 

 

Cover: Loved it!!!!

 

 

Book was gifted to me through Netgalley for a honest review.

 

I like a good hot Historical Romance from time to time and this book hit the spot. Great characters, this is the second book in the Breconridge Brothers series. I have not read the first book but I was not at all lost in this one.

 

We are introduced to Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy a playboy not looking for anything serious especially a wife. But at a ball he goes out of his way to meet Miss Serena Palmer, she tends to keep to herself, not wanting to get to know anyone or dance at all. Serena hides a big secret about who she really is and She does not want a husband or children afraid her secret may be revealed. But after meeting Geoffrey she cannot hide her feelings for him and they start to get to know each other. Things start to get very hot and steamy between the two

 

 

 

I was afraid that Geoffrey was going to be a jerk, but he was a good man through and through, when they were discovered he did the right thing and married Serena. I loved reading about my Serena's life in India and how she grew up there. We see her struggle so much with what to do with her secret how to tell Geoffrey.

 

"She could now begin their married life together with honesty and trust, as Aunt Morley had advised. She could tell him the entire truth of who she was and who he'd married. She could stop hiding, stop pretending, stop lying and trust he loved her enough to accept her for what she was, "

 

 

I loved both characters and how much they loved each other, we get a few good hot love scenes

 

 

 

 

 I loved the ending, going to be reading the next book. Again great characters and just the right amount of hotness!!! :)

 

 

 



 

 

[SidneyKay · Rating 4 out of 5]

"A secret is a kind of promise.... It can also be a prison." – Jennifer Lee Carrell

I haven't read Isabella Bradford since she was Miranda Jarrett, and I think that is about to change. Can you say Glom? In case you haven't guessed, I liked A Sinful Deception. I liked almost everything about this delightful book!

Here's what makes this story a great read - Geoffrey Fitzroy and Lady Serena Carew. These two are not complex, complicated people. They are drawn pretty realistically. Their romance develops slowly and was a pure joy to read. There was some really lovely writing in this story.

The story starts in 1771, which means that we have gigantic, lush dresses with hoops, satin, silk, lace and on our head we have lace, flowers and powder. Think Thomas Gainsborough, Sir Thomas Reynolds, and a young Marie Antoinette. This is one of my favorite time periods, (even with all the smells that must have permeated the land). Visually this had to be a vivid, lush time period - if you had money.

Geoffrey. On the surface, what we have in Geoffrey is your typical rake who seems to have plowed a few fields, stuffed a few olives, swabbed a lot of decks, poked some pumpkins. In fact, he's one of those Romanceland rakes. I found myself wondering how he arrived at the age of 25 and still had his overused Mr. Toad attached to Bert and Ernie. In this story it all starts with a glance from across a crowded room (sounds like a song). He spots this gorgeous, sensual, exotic woman and is instantly enthralled. He must have her. However, he knows she is an innocent, so that is a problem. You see, marriage is a word that hasn't found its way into his vocabulary. But he can dance with her. His brother, Harry, bets him that he won't be able to persuade her onto the floor. It seems that Serena is a tad bit aloof. Because Geoffrey has tons of women falling at his feet every day, he doesn't think he will have a problem with this one. Much to his surprise she all but ignores him. This only makes him more intrigued. He knows she spent her childhood in India and he's just returned from there, so reaching down into his bag of tricks he pulls out some Hindi words. Those words work. He wins his bet, but by the end of the evening he is no longer interested in anything but Serena. He’s not interested in marriage, however, that doesn't prevent him from courting her. He never considers why he's courting her; all that he knows is that he wants to be with her. I loved watching a completely out-of-control, lust-filled rake fall in love.

However, he hasn't taken into consideration the reaction of Serena's grandfather. Her grandfather doesn't have a very high opinion of Geoffrey's family. The fact that Geoffrey's father is a duke doesn't matter one bit to her grandfather. You see, Geoffrey is descended from a French woman who was a mistress to a king and that is unacceptable to Serena's grandfather - big time.

Serena. Serena has a secret. As secrets go, it is a doozy. We the readers know from the very beginning what that secret is. Spoilers ahead, sort of. Serena is posing as her dead half-sister, her dead legitimate half-sister, her dead white legitimate half-sister. Unbeknownst to her pure blood stickler English aristocratic family, Serena's father had numerous Indian mistresses. His favorite one was her mother. Serena was the only survivor of a deadly fever which infected and killed everyone in her father's household - including servants. She was thirteen at the time, and when she was rescued by some British soldiers, she's mistaken for her sister. She decides not to correct them.

All through the book we witness her struggle with the fear of being discovered. She's the apple of her stickler grandfather's eye and beloved by her aunt. The secret was a very intense part of the story; we know that sometime it's going to explode into the air. We just don't know when and we don't know how everyone will react. The secret was very well done.

Secondary characters. The Sinful Deception was loaded with a cast of great supporting characters, from Selena's dreadful villain Uncle Radnor to Geoffrey's strong willed father, the Duke of Breconridge. Let's talk about the duke. I found him an irritating, but at the same time, fascinating character. He was/is determined that one of his sons will give him a grandson. In the process, he doesn't seem to care about whose feelings he dumps on or who he has to brow-beat to achieve his goal. His treatment of Gus (heroine from A Wicked Pursuit,) was just dreadful. He is controlling and abrasive to his sons. However, underneath all of his bombastic actions is a calm, silent caring. Because of his determination to have a male heir to continue his family’s legacy I had my doubts when I read his calm reaction to Serena's secret. I had a feeling that anyone who so dictatorial in his need for a male scion to carry on a family linage would be less than happy when their son married a woman of mixed blood. But hey, what do I know? However, Breconridge just didn't seem all that flexible to me.

I did have an almost ewwww moment in The Sinful Deception. All I'm going to say is spit, Timothy Toad and hands.

Overall, this was a delightful book with a gentle yet intense love story. Geoffrey and Serena were a great couple and I'm looking forward to the third book in the series. I'm also going back for the first in the series!
KaysBlog

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 maybe? I wanted this book to be a lot more interesting than it turned out to be. The overall plot concept was quite good, but somehow the characters themselves didn't really engage or feel real. I didn't really care much about what happened to them, and found myself skimming. Luckily it was a library book, so nothing lost by trying it.

[karen frick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hearts from very different worlds overcome stereotypes with love!

A man and a women from two very different worlds meet and the sparks fly! Eventually the lovers and their families come to understand and accept their differences!

[Shala Howell · Rating 3 out of 5]

First one in the series was fun enough I tried another. Hey, what can I say. Had more road tripping to do. (I love summer!)

[Amber]

DNF on page 82 for boring writing, which is surprising because I remember enjoying book 1.

[Ang · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Sinful Deception Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy leads a charmed existence. As the second son of the Duke of Breconridge, he has none of the responsibilities of his older brother and all of the advantages, leaving handsome Geoffrey free to enjoy his rakish pursuits. And pursue them he does, leaving hearts fluttering all over London. But one night, at a ball teeming with high society's most sought-after beauties, only one truly intrigues him: the regal, aloof, and mysterious Miss Serena Palmer. Magnificently dressed and wearing jewels befitting a queen, the lady is considered the prize of the season, a noble-born heiress raised in India. But even as Geoffrey's fascination grows, Serena deftly deflects his curiosity—and with good reason: Serena's exotic past contains a perilous secret that could destroy her. Yet her plan to live in safe solitude is thwarted by her hungry heart, and soon Geoffrey's passionate seduction finds her blissfully bed—and wed. Will her deception destroy her chance at happiness as Geoffrey's wife? Or will the devotion of her new husband reveal the only truth worth embracing: her undying love?
 
 
This is an intriguing story. I love Regency era stories that include a piece of India. It was such an exotic place at that time with the sons who were not heirs trying to make their fortunes and not always in a lawful manner. Serena’s father was one such son, and Serena’s tragic history is brought out in the story gradually. What we do know is that she has a life-ruining secret and she maintains a distance from everyone as a result. Geoffrey is determined to meet Serena and break through her façade, and he is given a chance when he speaks Hindi to her. There are obstacles, however, not only with Serena’s own hesitation, but also in her family and their hatred for Geoffrey’s family.
 
 
I did not read the first book in this series, but found I didn’t need to. There were some allusions to it as it was about Geoffrey’s older brother and his wife and they feature in the story quite often. Geoffrey is a likeable, affable, rake who has set his sights on Serena. He is discouraged by everyone from toying with her as she is a gently bred lady and he hasn’t the best reputation. Their attraction and informal courtship is enjoyable and romantic. Geoffrey is a very considerate hero and despite his rakish ways, he is not jaded or arrogant. He will be on many top lists for best hero I am sure.
 
 
Serena’s secret really weighs her down and has her doubting, second quessing, and resisting Geoffrey until she really can’t resist him anymore. Her nightmares added a dramatic effect to the toll her body was taking by keeping her secret. It gets a bit tedious but at least she keeps moving on with her attraction to Geoffrey. You can feel the oppression that she feels in her family’s home. I understand that unmarried females were not allowed to go about unsupervised, but Serena truly had no freedom whatsoever. Geoffrey really had to be creative to find her alone. I loved the bookstore scene where Geoffrey followed her to and approached her.
 
Bradford writes their love scenes well.   There was emotion in their coupling and all their encounters were nice (meaning hot). There were a few of them too which I always appreciate.
 
Spoiler here – the only disappointing thing was how flat the reception of her secret was to everyone around her. Serena is so consumed with the expectation that she’ll be tossed out by Geoffrey that she runs away, yet Geoffrey is like “meh”. I would have expected him to be more disappointed and annoyed that she didn’t share her secret and trust him, etc. etc., but he was immediately accepting and for the most part, so was his family. I think it could have been a bit more dramatic and would have added a little more to the intrigue of the story.
 
Overall, I enjoyed it and would recommend it. I will now have to read the first one and then the third book as well when it is released.
 
Thank you to the NetGalley for the ARC.

[ItsAboutTheBook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review can be read at It's About The Book

Isabella Bradford is a new author to me, but that will soon be fixed! Her lush and vivid descriptions of the life the heroine led in India both drove the story line and captivated this reader; they also formed a large part of the delicate and intimate relationship between the two main characters.

Serena’s character is trapped by her terrible secret–and a past that defines her present. She can never fall in love, get married, and have children. But underneath, she yearns…. Yearns for love, for passion, for LIFE! For seven years in the cold, sterile environment of England, she has tried to mold herself into the perfect model of an English society lady. She’s achieved the demeanor, the polite chatter and the outward accoutrements necessary. She avoids dancing and speaking with most people, preferring the company of her aunt and grandfather. She’d doing everything she can not to give herself away, for if she did, it would mean being thrown out into the streets. She’s certain of that; she’s heard her grandfather’s beliefs on illegitimate children frequently enough. And her nightmares about the horrific last days in India and the fever that took everyone else in the family still keep her awake and keep the past a vivid reminder any time she thinks to forget.

Let’s just say our girl is locked into a pretty depressing life and has no hopes of changing that. Plus, she doesn’t realize it but her Uncle Radnor is going to make it much worse when her grandfather dies if she doesn’t get married. He’s a huge asshole and I shudder to think what he’ll do. WARNING: Soapbox Because remember, a woman’s got no rights to her own money, and the inheritance that Serena came with from her father is actually not.her.own. Surprised? I’m not. Her male guardian is in charge of it. Right now that’s her grandfather–after his death that would be her Uncle. Oh yes. Stepping off Soapbox

Apparently Geoffrey has been a trampy slut up to now. He’s slept his way through all the courtesans and vampy widows and available wives, but he knows better than to sully a virgin from a good family. He’s only twenty-five and doesn’t plan on getting married for at least another ten years. But when he sees Serena across a crowded ballroom he’s smitten immediately. She’s everything that the other women are not–beautiful light golden skin, almond-shaped amber eyes, sultry looks–just like the trip he took to India. She’s exotic and mysterious and he must have her. He makes a bet with his brother than he can get her to dance and he does, secretly delighted that she weaves a sensuous trail across the dance floor that is so different from the others. But she takes him to the garden for a talking to. She isn’t interested in him or anyone! What? Could it be that someone is not excited by his attentions? However, she concedes to meeting him in the park the next day, and he’s hooked. The chase is on!

What follows is a delightful push-pull that’s only marred by our inner view of Serena’s anguish at the possibility of ever truly being with Geoffrey. She can see being with him in passion but never as a marriage partner because that would make her too vulnerable to revealing her secret–a secret that would not only destroy her own reputation but that of her family and Geoffrey’s as well. But as we all know, secrets have a way of coming out whether we like it or not…

There’s angst without being angsty, and the development between the characters is finely drawn and built carefully so that the love between the two is believable and lovely. While it is the second in the series, it works as a stand-alone perfectly. I think that I will go back and read the first one to get a richer picture of Harry and Gus because the characters are interesting and I’d like to know more about them. And while the ending might have seemed incongruous, there were hints built-in along the story so the reasoning was there all along. I’m excited by this new historical author who brings such vivid descriptive prose and exciting story lines to the table! Enjoy!

[Kiltsandswords · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Sinful Deception (The Breconridge Brothers Book #2) by Isabella Bradford

Keeping secrets is very hard. It’s an impossible task when you feel the crushing guilt of a secret that if known would devastate your life. That’s the theme of this love story. Lady Serena Carew keeps herself guarded from the ton of London as she carries a burden that no one knows and has the power to destroy her very life. The author makes you feel her pain and the guilt that she carries. As the reader, you feel the lodestone hanging around her neck and as the plot moves along, you worry incessantly for her well being and safety.
London in 1771 is not very progressive. Serena’s own grandfather despises the Fitzroy family as they have descended from the mistress of a King. The line between acceptable and unacceptable is so narrow that one toe crossed over would lead to catastrophic events. I found the time frame of this story interesting, the memories of India and the lives of the ton at this time. The elaborate costumes and clothes worn were a welcome change from the 1800s that are most featured in historical romance novels.
When Geoffrey meets Serena, it begins as a wager to get her to dance, however, to his delight, he find the arrow to her heart right away. Speaking to her in Hindi, he captures her attention like no other suitor. And so begins the romance of the two. Geoffrey, while the second son of a Duke and a well respected member of the ton, is not at all acceptable to her grandfather. If only this was the only impediment to the young lovers.
The romance between to two progresses predictably. They ride in Hyde Park, slip away at ball’s to be together and get caught in a compromising position forcing a wedding that has ramifications beyond her grandfather’s wrath.
What was so heart breaking was that Serena and Geoffrey are in love with each other. They have built a real relationship and adore being together. When the torments of her past cause Serena horrible nightmares, Geoffrey is there to wipe her brow and care for her.
Yet, even knowing he loves her and cares deeply about her well being, Serena just can’t bring herself to tell Geoffrey about her past and the implications for them and their marriage. It isn’t as though she is a coward, the reader truly feels for her and totally understands why she stays silent on the momentous truth that would change everything. From her grandfather’s unkind words about members of the ton, her horrid uncle’s machinations and her new father-in-law’s attitude about the birth of granddaughters, her secret is a million times bigger.
When a thoughtful gesture by Geoffrey brings her into contact with her past and her uncle determined to blow open wide her secrets, she runs. She can’t face her ruin. As the reader, you wanted to believe that she shouldn’t run, but that the love of Geoffrey would help her weather the storm, yet you totally want her to get away at the same time. Geoffrey finds her hiding in London and brings her back home. He is not put off until her hears the truth. To her astonishment, the secret, while shocking, is not the death sentence she imagined. He loves her and will fight with her to save her position in society and his family.
I loved the relationship between Geoffrey and Serena. They had a wonderful sensuality to them. The love scenes go on for quite a few pages and are very hot. They are a couple in love and lust with each other and it wasn’t a forced occurrence. It was lovely to read a story where the characters found the right person and enjoyed marriage to each other.
Once the secret was dealt with, the epilogue brought a few tears to my eyes. It was a perfect ending to a story that could have been so tragic, and actually was very tense. I enjoyed this story and the imagery of London and England was a beautiful touch for the reader.
Reviewed for www.kiltsandswords.com Thank you to netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This next book in the Breconridge Brothers series features second son Geoffrey, a rakish young man who enjoys his lot in life yet he is captivated by a beautiful mysterious woman.
Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy never wants to be a Duke when his father dies, that is why he rushes home from India when his brother Harry was seriously injured hoping to help in any way he could. When his brother recovers and marries the lovely Gus, Geoffrey stays in town and relishes the role of the second son. One night during the height of the season, he notices a lovely young woman who many find standoffish and he vows to get to know her.
Serena has lived most of her life in India, her father moved there to work for the East India Company but soon was dissatisfied and moved his family away from Calcutta. After his wife died, her father often had several mistresses but never married again. During one rainy season when she was thirteen, illness took the lives of everyone but Serena. She soon found herself living with her grandfather and aunt in England, enjoying the life of a proper English lady. Yet she is hiding a secret that could ruin several lives and causes her frequent nightmares.
These Breconridge brothers have captivated me from book one. I thought older brother Harry was adorable and so much fun and although Geoffrey is more calm, he does have a rakish side that makes him oh so sexy.
Serena is this quiet, beautiful woman who has an aura of mystery surrounding her. She rarely dances with men and often deflects those that want to know more about her. She was raised as an heiress in India and when she came to England, she was determined to be an independent woman who lives on her own terms and will never marry. However, as soon as Geoffrey and Serena meet the attraction is apparent and they can't seem to stay away from each other.
Being the second son, Geoffrey has none of the responsibilities that his older brother has, so has enjoyed his life of leisure, yet one look at Serena and his pursuit changes. They are so cute together, often telling themselves they will not seek each other out, and then they make plans. Their quiet courtship starts slow but heats up as they long to be together, only to make one misstep that changes their plans forever.
The pace of the story works well, it is a slow build as the two gradually get to know each other and fall in love. Serena is constantly reminded of the secret she holds that could destroy everything and it often interferes with her life. However I love how Geoffrey treats her and when he learns of her past he does not miss a beat, the love is so true. Secondary characters play important roles, her aunt Morley is often around and is frequently her champion with both her grandfather and an uncle that causes problems. We see a lot of Harry and Gus as the brothers are close and I enjoyed catching up with these two. We even get a peek at Rivers, who will be featured in the next book, a sexy bookish hero in historical times is always a treat. This can easily be read as a standalone however book one was very enjoyable so I recommend reading both for those that enjoy a romance set in historical times with a bit of mystery.

Review posted at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind

Copy from publisher for an honest review

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has a rakish second-son (Lord Geoffrey) chasing after an aloof and mysterious English heiress (Lady Serena) who has no inclination to marry. But she has a secret - a dark secret - the darkest of secrets - through a contrivance of mistaken identity (as happens a lot to romance types) she's not who she claims to be, but in fact the late Lady Serena's half-sister by an Indian servant woman, brought to England after the death of her immediate family and raised by relatives.

This book gets some points simply for trying to un-white-wash 18th century England through the medium of historical romance. Highlighting the people of color in stereotypically white history is a popular topic in history circles these days, with great efforts like People of Color in European Art History and otherwise trying to undo 300 years of cropping black people out of paintings, so it's pretty natural that this zeitgeist would start hitting the fiction market about this time. I am guessing this book was inspired largely by the 2013 movie Belle, which also stars a woman of color with a British father.

However, the narrative spends far too much time exoticising the main character's appearance, language, and mannerisms to succeed at being a genuine attempt at inclusion in the historical romance genre. While it is more or less normal to spend inordinate amounts of time in romance books describing the appearances of the women, with flashing hazel eyes and cobalt-black hair or whatever, the constant descriptions of Serena's skin color in the usual cliche dark food words began to get pretty uncomfortable after a while, and confusing to boot, as everyone accepts her as white. But you are not for a minute allowed to forget that she is not really British, even though she has lived in the country for years and is considered white. In fact, there is very little of her character to discover in the book, other than her Deep Dark Secret, which is being born to an Indian woman. (Also that she likes sex, because it's a romance book.) She has also decided to forgo marriage because she might have a dark-skinned baby and then everyone will know she is Indian. Basically her character starts and stops at her Indian identity.

As for the romance, it leans heavily on angst to move the narrative forward; the angst, in turn, leans heavily on her secret Indian identity. The conclusion of the book has them being caught by her family while trying to have sex and he is forced to propose while she weeps softly, which was hands down one of the most depressing fictional treatments of the proposal I have ever read. The Happily Ever After is sort of crammed down on you at the end, and the epilogue includes Selena's profound relief at giving birth to a "normal looking" white-skinned baby, even though her family and husband know she is Indian now. Which was something of a perfect ending to the muddled racial treatment I must admit.

This certainly isn't the worst treatment of race in historical fiction, but what with the clear inspiration from modern trends in inclusion in European history, and having read Bradford's books before, I expected something a little more thoughtful.

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy leads a charmed life as second son of the Duke of Breconridge. He doesn’t have to worry about the responsibilities his older brother has to deal with so he can concentrate on his pursuits and the ladies. When he goes to another ball brimming with all the eligible ladies, he finds himself captivated by the mysterious Serena Carew. A beauty with a regal bearing and is considered the catch of the season. But Serena is determined to stay single and alone until Geoffrey captures her heart and she finds herself wedded and bedded. But Serena has a secret that could destroy her world. Can she trust her new husband enough with it or will it destroy the happiness that is beginning to bloom between her and Geoffrey?

I really enjoyed this book a lot. Ms. Bradford delivers a different take on historical romance with a heroine who has secrets and is exotic besides the London ladies. The writing was tight, story flowed smoothly and I found myself rooting for Serena and Geoffrey after the first chapter was done. The bookstore scene left me rooting for these two to find happiness with one another. The author did a great job in capturing the memories of Serena’s life in India and as it was such an exotic place during the regency time, it made the story quite intriguing even more. Those scenes had me flipping the pages quickly as I devoured them. They were quite interesting and made Serena all the more interesting as a character. The characters were quite wonderfully well written and I highly enjoyed them. Geoffrey and Serena were perfect for one another.

Lord Geoffrey was rakish, charming and determined to not get married. Except when he spies Serena, well life has a way of throwing a wrench into your plans and boy does Serena do that to Geoffrey. She is a woman who just calls to Geoffrey’s heart and he can’t stay away from her. She is a woman with a secret that could destroy her and she plans to live a solitary life. But forces are afoot and someone is going to make Serena pay but they don’t anticipate Geoffrey or his devotion to her. I love these two together. You got the devil may care rake, the haughty heroine and a romance that transcends the pages. I loved how the author just lets these two shine-warts and all. The one aspect I had issues with was Serena not having any faith whatsoever in Geoffrey that when her secret did come out she ran away from him instead of standing up to him and everyone. I think that was the issue that had me making this not a higher rating.

A SINFUL DECEPTION is a wonderful read that you can get lost in. It is a stand alone book so it was easy to follow some scenes with older brother who was in Book one, A Wicked Pursuit. I truly enjoyed this latest book from the author and look forward to seeing where she goes with this series.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Reviewed on Once Upon a Romance Blog - rexilake.tumblr.com

For anyone who enjoys historical romance, this author is a must read! “A Sinful Deception” is the second in the Breconridge Brothers Trilogy. The story features Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy, the second son of the Duke of Breconridge. He is, of course, the “spare” and has always felt out of place with his father. While many see being an heir as a fortuitous circumstance, Lord Geoffrey has always eschewed the thought of being an heir. Because if he were to inherit, it would mean he’d lost not only his father, but his elder brother. In response to the duke’s insistence on knowing his “duty,” Geoffrey left London and went to India for awhile. He returned home when his brother was ill, and decided to stay. Now, in the midst of a ballroom, he happens upon the one woman who could help him tame his wild ways - his very own reminder of India.
Miss Serena Carew is cool and aloof. She’s known to be a bit of an ice queen in London’s society rooms. But Geoffrey can tell from the moment he sees her that she is not like the other society ladies. And she is definitely not the cool, reserved woman the others see. Behind that facade is hidden fires that he cannot help but wish to experience. But Serena is hiding more than just her passionate nature. When her secret comes out, will Geoffrey still love her? Will society still accept her as her father’s daughter despite her past?
I fell in love with Geoffrey’s persistent nature at the very beginning of this book. And Serena has the perfect complimentary attitude to match wits with Geoffrey. They connect over their shared histories in India. Whereas Serena lived there in her early life, Geoffrey was able to visit as an adult. Both share a love of the culture, and find that perhaps their meeting is Kismet.
I’m of the opinion that finding this author was Kismet for me. It’s always hard to wait for my favorites to release new books, but when I find a new author whose books grab my attention, it gives me a new collection to gather! And this book did that for me. From page one, I couldn’t put the book down. I was caught in the dance and mystery between Geoffrey and Serena. I couldn’t wait to find out her true story, nor see how he would react.
For fans of authors like Sabrina Jeffries, Elizabeth Hoyt, Julia Quinn, and Eloisa James, Isabella Bradford’s writing style fits right in! Be sure to grab up your copies of the Breconridge Brothers trilogy. I cannot wait for the final book!

[Trista · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I loved this book. The heroine, Serena Carew, was born and raised in India, and though she had come to London when her family died of a mysterious illness, she has little use for the Ton. This was because she had a secret that could ruin her, and unlike most of the insubstantial secrets that heroines have in books, Serena's is really major.

This was one of the reasons that I really liked this book. The stakes and dangers for Serena are serious. Not to give too much away with spoilers, but let's say that what is looming over her is something that is still not resolved today in modern society. Not often that a hist-rom makes you stop and think, but this one did.

The hero, Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy, is a younger son of the Duke of Breconridge, and though he has a few bad moments in his past, they're nothing compared to the baggage Serena is toting around. But that's ok, because Serena needs someone who has plenty of understanding on the way to love, which she gets with Geoffrey.

The chemistry between these two was electric, and though the love scenes are pretty steamy, it was how Serena and Geoffrey played off against each other that made this relationship special. It wasn't just a jump-into-bed book. You really got to see them grow to care about each other, which made their wedding night all the hotter.

I also loved seeing the hero and hero from the last book, A WICKED PURSUIT, again. They're integral to this book's plot, not just passing through, too, and it was interesting to see that their marriage hasn't been all smooth sailing, either, with a few more challenges thrown in for them to work out, too.

As usual with this author (she also writes historical fiction), the descriptions of the houses, parties, and clothes are so much better than most hist-rom authors, and you can tell she works hard at her research and world-building. The flashback scenes to India are especially beautiful and haunting. Really an awesome book, and I can't wait for the third in this series.

I received this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the publisher and author for making it available.

[Marilyn Rondeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Geoffrey Fitzroy is the second son of the Duke of Breconridge, with none of the responsibilities of his older brother Harry and all of the advantages. This leaves Geoffrey free to enjoy his rakish pursuits,leaving hearts fluttering all over London. But one night, at a ball brimming with high society’s most sought-after beauties, only one truly intrigues him: the regal, aloof, and mysterious Miss Serena Carew.
 
Looking like a crown jewel herself the lady is considered the prize of the season: a noble-born heiress raised in India. As Geoffrey’s fascination grows, Serena attempts to divert his curiosity in order to keep her secret past behind her. Her past life in India if discovered could destroy her. However her hungry heart, and Geoffrey’s passionate seduction finds her blissfully bedded—and wed. Should the truth emerge will her deception destroy her chance at happiness as Geoffrey’s wife?

Unfortunately, I did not read the first book in this series, but I can honestly say it had no impact on the enjoyment and ability to follow along with this second book, A SINFUL DECEPTION. In fact ASD was a total delight from page one to the very last page and it could have gone on forever, as I was totally involved with the story and Ms. Bradfords elegant prose and beautifully pictured sensuality.

The secret [which you will have to read the book to discover] was something that Serena’s hateful Uncle did his best to expose, and in a beautifully written scene Ms. Bradford gave him his just desserts where I actually put my Kindle down to clap and hoot loudly with joy. The story itself was a relief to read during a very stormy and snowy day outside, as such when a book is this enjoyable it gets read in a day. An absolute treasure.

Marilyn Rondeau