Miss Agatha Woodville never imagined life would lead to the infamous pleasure palace, Aphrodite. Desperate to save her family from ruin, she makes a daring auctioning her virginity. To succeed, she must craft an image of allure and innocence, captivating the gentlemen who will bid for her. For guidance, she turns to Thomas, the rakish Earl of Radbourne, whose infamous seduction skills are unmatched.
Agatha’s only goal is to save her family—not to fall in love—but as the auction draws near, she finds herself drawn to the dangerous allure of the one man who has vowed never to marry. With her heart on the line and heartbreak seemingly inevitable, Agatha must resist the man she was never meant to love.
I am an unapologetic romance lover. I read it. I write it. Enough said. Well..I also have a warrior way "Never give up on my dreams." I spend a copious amount of time drooling over Rick Grimes from Walking Dead, watching Japanese anime and playing video games with my love, Dusean.
This was very good!! I just think it dragged on by the end for a shorter story. I love finding books with characters who have disabilities (the hero's brother) since that's very close to my heart.
I really wanted to like this book (since I enjoyed the first two books in the series) but I was bored most of the time and had to force myself to continue reading after putting the ebook down several times.
The steam level really heated up around the 70% mark and the story got a little more interesting from there. There was plenty of steam throughout the book but I felt disconnected during those scenes. I don’t recall if this is tagged as an HR erotica but there’s explicit language (mostly “f*ck” or “f*cking,” c*ck, and p*ssy), which I don't mind but just wanted to point that out to potential readers. I was not expecting anal play so be forewarned if that’s not your thing.
There’s a little bit of angst that comes with unrequited love for a peer of the realm when the heroine is not noble as well as trying not to fall for one’s intimate tutor (or protector, in the case of a side character).
If I didn’t rate based on my enjoyment, this book would be 3 stars. The writing and steam are good. The romance could be a little interesting.
it is waaay past my bedtime and I am bawling and sniffling like a baby. Damn, Stacy Reid does the best emotional, sensual stories. At first I am smiling at the cuteness and falling in love then these tortured heros do something that just wounds me and the tears have soaked through my pillow. Uhhh sing it, sometimes love don’t feel like it should MAKE IT HURT SO GOOD. Agatha you have the most horrid book nickname but you finally made Tommy beg for it😄 with your diiirty dance💃🏻
Miss Agatha Woodville never imagined life would lead to the infamous pleasure palace, Aphrodite. However when her father’s debts are called in he offers Agatha’s sixteen year old sister Maggie but Agatha goes in her place. One innocent night with a Duke sees the debt paid but a tear later & desperate to save her family from ruin, she returns & sets about auctioning her virginity. To succeed, she must craft an image of allure and innocence, captivating the gentlemen who will bid for her. For guidance, she turns to Thomas, the rakish Earl of Radbourne, whose infamous seduction skills are unmatched. This is one steamy but engrossing series, each book can be read on its own but there are appearances from earlier characters as the lords are close friends. I loved both Thomas & Agatha & love how the tutoring quickly became so much more. There was immediate attraction but their feelings soon became engaged but Thomas is determined to walk away & Agatha needs the money. I loved how things were resolved & read this unputdownable romance straight through I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
I have read 41 books by Stacy Reid, including this one and have been reading her since 2016. I consider her one of my favorites. I love her writing, her stories and her sex scenes are off the chain hot. I LOVE this series.
I loved Agatha and Thomas' story. I hated what she was doing but glad it worked out the way it did. The story had great depth in both characters and the story itself. The sex was super hot. I didn't like how the story just ended. I was reading expecting to read some kind of epilogue and I turned the page and BOOM it was done. So it ended rather abruptly but otherwise, as usual with a Stacy Reid book, great overall read.
fight the patriarchy by auctioning your virginity, I think? also this fmc wasn't even a little insecure about how hot she is. everyone around her is like "you're the prettiest lady I've ever seen" and she's like "absolutely right, but can I monetize it?" and you love to see it
That may seem like I lukewarm recommendation but I am an avid reader and my standards are high. Ms. Reid is a master, imo, of the “story”. The character’s are multi dimensional, the story engrossing, emotional, sensual and seductive. There are very few grammatical errors and the pacing is perfect. She is now on my “must read author’s list and I cannot wait for the next installment in this series.
A Rake's Embrace was probably my eighteenth book I've read by Stacy Reid. And like all of the other books I've read, this one was exceptional! How does she come up with many different plots? Stacy has now become one of my top five authors. When I see her name, I just know it's going to be a good, entraining read.
Stacy Reid’s In a Rake’s Embrace (Book 3 of the Sins & Sensibilities series) is a spellbinding historical romance that balances fiery passion with emotional depth. With its irresistible blend of scandal, seduction, and heartache, this book is a gem for fans of love stories where the stakes are as high as the emotions.
Miss Agatha Woodville’s plight instantly captures the heart. Her desperate decision to auction her innocence in a bid to save her family adds a daring edge to the story, showing her as both courageous and vulnerable. Agatha’s character shines in her determination to take control of her destiny while grappling with the societal expectations that cage her.
Enter Thomas, the rakish Earl of Radbourne—a man whose seductive reputation precedes him. Tasked with teaching Agatha the art of allure, Thomas is the epitome of the brooding, emotionally unavailable hero who doesn’t believe in love. Yet, as their lessons turn from instructive to incendiary, Thomas’s carefully guarded heart begins to unravel. Watching his transformation is as thrilling as the romance itself.
The chemistry between Agatha and Thomas is electric. Stacy Reid masterfully builds their relationship through stolen glances, clever banter, and moments of vulnerability that will leave readers breathless. As Agatha navigates the treacherous waters of her plan, her growing feelings for Thomas create a poignant tension, making every interaction between them a dance of desire and restraint.
The setting of Aphrodite, the infamous pleasure palace, adds an enticingly risqué backdrop to the story, contrasting with Agatha’s innocence and highlighting her bravery. The stakes are palpable as the auction looms closer, keeping the reader gripped by both the threat of heartbreak and the hope for a happily ever after.
Stacy Reid’s prose is lush and evocative, immersing readers in a world of candlelit rooms, whispered confessions, and forbidden kisses. She excels at crafting characters whose vulnerabilities make them achingly real and whose love feels both fated and hard-won.
For fans of historical romance filled with forbidden passion, clever heroines, and rakish heroes who can’t help but fall for them, In a Rake’s Embrace is a must-read. It’s a story of sacrifice, self-discovery, and love’s power to heal even the most guarded hearts. This book will linger with you long after you turn the final page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In A Rake’s Embrace is the third erotic story in the Sins & Sensibilities series. The story Prologue begins in the small seaside town of Cringleford, then continues into London to the disreputable pleasure palace, Aphrodite. This initial crisis averted, until one year later. This romance is teasingly steamy, with a fresh plot.
A circle of friends, all true Rakes and libertines, these men meet socially at Aphrodite. They are close friends who love each other like brothers. Their friendships forged in fire, scandal, and the kind of trust only born through reckless camaraderie; James Chisholm, the Duke of Basil, Oliver Carlyle, the Marquess of Ambrose, Thomas Pennington, the Earl of Radbourne, Mister Brandon Armstrong, and Alexander Sutton, the Earl of Bainbridge.
In Scandal With The Duke: 5 stars - James & Elizabeth The Scandalous Diary of Lily Layton: 5 stars - Oliver & Lily In A Rake’s Embrace: 5+ stars - Thomas & Agatha
Miss Agatha Woodville is horrified to learn that her father has gambled his way into deep debt, and plans to sacrifice Aga’s younger sister to clear the debt. She makes the decision to go to London instead, and is met with a merciful Lord who relieves her of any penance. A year later, to once again help her family recover from being penniless, Agatha makes the daring plan to auction her virginity at Aphrodite.
Thomas Pennington, the Earl of Radbourne, has the reputation of a libertine. His seduction skills are unmatched, and he is filled with cold pragmatism. Many claim him to be cunning and dangerous. He is truly a disillusioned Rake. Thomas has decided never to marry.
Thomas and Agatha’s attraction builds slowly during her term of tutorage. Their relationship begins with an agreement, he will teach her the alluring secrets and ways of a skilled lover, and she will learn enough to be ready for her auction, in a matter of weeks. It’s an intense situation as they spend a lot of time together, both intimately and then socially. Their sexy times are super steamy as they are prohibited of succumbing to the ultimate act. Both characters are multi-dimensional which adds the emotional element to the romance. The flying scene with Ronald is a favourite.
I highly recommend this book. I highly recommend this series.
Destitute due to her father’s profligate behavior, Agatha is horrified when she overhears him offering her barely sixteen year old sister as payment of his debts. In an act of desperation, Agatha subverts her father’s will and offers herself in her sister’s place. When the gentleman who accepted her company as payment passes a chaste evening with her and gives her money in addition to ensure her family’s short term wellbeing, she’s spared a career in a house of ill repute.
Just a year later her father’s stolen all the money she brought back and incurred new debt. Despite Agatha’s diligence in managing household matters, she once again makes the choice to return to Madame Rebecca’s establishment. In a slight twist, Agatha proposes auctioning off her innocence to the highest bidder in hopes that it’ll be a one off. In order to command that high a price, Rebecca enlists the help of a known rake to teach Agatha the art of seduction short of the physical act of int3rcours3.
Thomas is an earl who’s had a wealth of escapades with women of all kinds but maintains a strict policy of no emotional attachments. Having a loved one badly treated by a woman he loved and intended to marry, Thomas has never again had occasion or the desire to offer his heart to any woman, although he’s unfailingly fair and generous to those with whom he engages in adult activities. Rebecca enlists his help in readying Agatha for her upcoming debut and subsequent auction.
Of course as Thomas instructs Agatha in the finer points of seduction, feelings become complicated and the pair must decide whether they have a connection worth pursuing.
Stacy Reid has crafted another steamy, emotional novel of less than ideal circumstances and a rocky path toward resolution.
I was generously furnished an advance reader copy from the author and booksprout, and I’m happy to share my honest review.
"Miss Woodvilles skandalöse Lektionen" von Stacy Reid ist der dritte Band ihrer Sind and Sensibilities Reihe. Miss Agatha Woodville sieht sich keiner anderen Möglichkeit gegenüber, als ihre Jungfräulichkeit an den Meistbietenden im exklusiven Vergnügungdclub Aphrodite zu versteigern. Der Erlös würde ihr und ihren Geschwistern ein sorgloses Leben ermöglichen, denn die Spielsucht und Rücksichtslosigkeit ihres Vaters haben die Familie in den Ruin getrieben. Um ihre Unerfahrenheit zu überwinden, bittet die Madame den attraktiven Earl of Radbourne darum, Agatha auszubilden. Dabei kommen sich der äußerlich gefühlskalte Thomas und die unschuldige Agatha aber immer näher.
Stacy Reid lässt in ihrer sehr spicy Regency Lovestory wieder zwei ziemlich gegensätzliche Charaktere aufeinander treffen. Unschuld trifft abgeklärten Verführer, der nach all den Jahren gelangweilt von all den Verlockungen ist. Thomas hat nach einer schweren Enttäuschung sein Herz zu Stein werden lassen und dies ist sogar komplett nachvollziehbar. Erst die liebenswerte Agatha taut ihn nach und nach auf und bringt ihn dazu, wieder Gefühle zuzulassen. Die Geschichte ist sehr spice-lastig, das sollte man wissen und mögen. In den übrigen Momenten kann man dafür die emotionale Entwicklung der beiden Hauptfiguren noch besser mitverfolgen, was mir gefallen hat. Die Chemie zwischen den beiden funktioniert hervorragend und der Funke springt klar über.
Mein Fazit: Von mir gibt es gern eine Leseempfehlung!
We have a rake who is disillusioned with anything resembling love after a painful past relationship! We have Thomas Pennington , the Earl of Radbourne who is a tutor to Agatha Woodville aka Aga to auction off her virginity in 6 weeks! This will allow her to care for her family she has hidden from her alcoholic gambling father! Agatha has tried in the past but this time she is going to learn everything she can to be successful! But the lines begin to blur when the events at Aphrodite spill over into Ton events! Thomas has a disabled brother who loves Agatha she is genuinely kind nothing like the women in Thomas’s past! Can he tutor her to please another man after everything that has passed between them!? Agatha has learned that Thomas is aloof and willing to let her go to another man’s bed!? What if she’s wrong? Can Thomas be her friend, confidant and her future? Can Agatha leave the man she has come to love? Bravo well done! Nonstop action!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Even though the main premise of this book was unrealistic, it was an enjoyable read. Thomas and Agatha found themselves in an impossible situation. Essentially, he was to provide her practical instruction in the sensual arts so that she would know what to expect once she auctioned off her virginity. They were not supposed to get emotionally attached. As expected, they eventually fell for each other and got their HEA. I once read a book with a similär theme called "Teach Me" by Cassandra Dean. That story was very angsty and emotional. I cried lots. This book has a much lighter touch. Neither character was especially damaged and I only had to wipe my eyes once. I can't believe I'm saying this, but the story was verging on having too much steam. Towards the end, I decided to start skimming the pages. Nevertheless, the story kept me entertained and I do recommend it with that one caveat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What would she do to protect her family? Agatha’s father has accumulated such gambling debt, that his life is threatened. His solution is to sell one of his daughters to an upscale brothel. Agatha was fortunate. When she arrived at the brothel, she was given to a duke who left her intact and gave her money and advice. When the family situation doesn’t improve, she returns to Aphrodite determined learn the art of seduction and auction her virginity. Thomas, Earl of Radbourne, a rake of the first order is chosen to teach her the skills she desires without taking her virginity. Each steamy session teaches Agatha a little bit more of giving and taking pleasure, and brings the two of them closer together. This is a tender story of the love that develops between two people who have in common the love and care they have for their families. Their relationship leading to the auction is passionate. There are several surprises from the night of the auction to the story’s wonderful ending. Don’t miss this one. I received a special copy of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
In a Rake’s Embrace by author Stacy Reid is a spicy Regency romance that follows the plight of MFC Agatha Woodville whose father has callously offered her younger sister to settle his gambling debts. Agatha would do anything to protect her siblings and insists on taking her sisters place to satisfy the debt. Now on her way to the infamous pleasure house known as Aphrodite all seems lost for the innocent Miss until her troubles soon take a turn for the better due to the kindness of one of the houses clients and all was not lost, for now. This was an enjoyable risqué regency that brings together Agatha a year later with the infamous rake MMC Thomas Pennington, Earl of Radbourne and their story is a steamy one indeed. A delightfully written narrative with engaging characters, heart tugging moments and a passion that evolves into so much more can be found in this very entertaining read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Well written, full of drama, steam, emotions, society, family, twists and turns. Agatha has a father that is willing to pay his debts by trading his daughter to a pleasure palace. Agatha overhears her father making arrangements to give his young daughter away and steps in to save her sister. She goes in her place. So off she goes and is saved by a Duke who pays for her father's debt and sends her home. She again finds out that her father is gambling so she takes her siblings and her stepmother away and starts a new life. When the money runs out she again makes her way to the Pleasure Palace to earn money on an auction. It's there that she meets Thomas, an Earl, who will help her learn what men really like. As they work together, the feelings, the heat between them is so hot. Has lots of hot steamy scenes between them. Glad to hear they get their happily ever after. Would recommend to everyone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is one steamy story! Agatha, desperate to give her brother, sisters and stepmother a good life, approaches Madam Rebecca at the Aphrodite with a business proposition. She will auction off her virginity for a large sum, split the money, and after spending the promised time with the winner, go home and provide for her family. Lady Rebecca, seeing a large windfall, enlists Thomas Pennington, the Earl of Radbourne, to coach her in the ways of seduction. When he agrees, he believes he can educate Agatha and walk away. When he does, he learns that his heart is no longer his. This story is intense, explicit and entertaining. There are some sweet moments as Agatha has new experiences, developes friendships and learns a whole new side of herself. Thomas is one hot hunk, and it is delightful to see him lose his heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this high steam installment of Sins & Sensibilities we meet Agatha, a beauty from a poor family, made poorer by her father's gambling debts. To settle these debts, he volunteers Aga's sister, 16 year old Maggie, to be taken to work at a pleasure house. Older sister Agatha takes matters into her own hands by coming up with a plan to auction off her virginity and five night of pleasure to the highest bidder. The pleasure house madam asks a notorious rake, Thomas, to teach Aga how to give and receive pleasure, while remaining virtuous. Aga and Thomas fall for each other over the course of their very steamy lessons and eventually get to their happily ever after. The not very believable plot of this one just wasn't for me. I love a delicious slow burn and more angst between main characters as well. This was pretty much insta love.
I was absolutely charmed by Agatha and Thomas. Their chemistry leaps off the page ... fiery, tender, and impossible to resist. What begins as a desperate gamble in the infamous pleasure palace of Aphrodite transforms into a story of vulnerability, seduction, and unexpected love.
Highlights:
✔️Agatha’s courage: Her determination to save her family makes her both admirable and relatable.
✔️Thomas’s allure: A rake with a reputation, yet his moments of unexpected tenderness make him unforgettable.
✔️The tension: Every scene between them crackles with forbidden desire, keeping the reader hooked.
The romance is intoxicating, the stakes are high, and the emotional payoff is deeply satisfying. While the premise is daring, the execution balances scandal with heart, making this a captivating read that lingers long after the final page.
We met Agatha in James and Elizabeth’s story in book one of this series, but I did not remember her until the scene with the Duke of Basil was told from her point of view. Thomas, I did remember from the previous books, and I am so glad we did not have any of his previous rutting behaviour present in this story. One particular lesson is scorching hot and erotic. Although I knew it was likely there would be a happy ending somehow Stacy managed to make me have a bit of doubt on the outcome of the auction. I did think maybe she would end up playing chess with Mr. Armstrong.. The ending was a little rushed but I’m glad their separation was not too drawn out and Thomas came to his senses on his future countess. 4.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I really enjoyed this spicy romance. The plot is very well written and has class disparity and stranger to friends to lovers tropes, steamy love scenes, especially the sizzling lessons and very likable characters. Thomas is a rake with a hard shell and an unexpected soft centre and Agatha is a heroine who would do anything for her family and is innocent but sensual at the same time. The chemistry between them crackled from the start and I really liked how they became friends besides her seduction lessons. All in all, a fun read with lots of steam that I am happy to recommend!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
Anything to save her family After hearing her father trying to sell one of her younger sisters to a house of ill repute to pay his gambling debts, Agatha decides to take her place and auction her virginity. To be sure to obtain enough money, the madam convinces Thomas Pennington, the Earl of Radbourne, who is a client, to give Agatha lessons in seduction, without seducing her. He swears that he will not participate in the auction. As the date of the auction approaches, Agatha develops feelings for her teacher. What about Thomas? Does he reciprocate her feelings? And will he be able to remain away from the auction? I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Characters: Agatha Woodville and Thomas Pennington, the Earl of Radbourne
Agatha is in desperate need of money for her family, she goes to Aphrodite, a gentleman’s establishment and offers her virginity for a price. Rebecca, who runs the establishment, agrees to help her. Rebecca asks The Earl of Radbourne if he can give Agatha lessons in seduction, so she can entice a man to win her.
While Thomas is teaching her, they fall in love
*This book was okay, honestly I didn’t feel the love with Thomas, he came off as very cold and unfeeling for a long time in the book, that when he finally confessed his feelings, I didn’t believe it. This book reminded me a bit of the movie Pretty Woman and Cruel Intentions.*
Strong characters from Stacy Reid. The steam level is hot and the story line is amazing. Feels like I waited a long time for this third instalment. I cannot say enough about Aga and Thomas. Aga is desperate to save her family and will do what she must. Thomas is a rake through and through but nothing seems to excite him anymore, that is until Aga arrives at pleasure palace and he is asked to teach her about her sexuality. Sparks fly. I recommend you read this story and fall in love with the here and heroine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This delightful novel introduces us to the captivating characters of Agatha and Thomas. I liked both main characters. In their way, they’re alike. They both are caring and protective of their families. This aspect of their personalities will bond them together. They have a passionate relationship. The chemistry between them is unique. There are quite steamy love scenes. The romance is perfectly paced and so delightful to read. Readers looking for a passionate historical romance should pick up this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved Agatha and Thomas's passionate story of a young lady who will risk everything to save her family even if it means auctioning herself off to the highest bidder at the notorious Aphrodiate house of pleasure. However to do this she needs the help of one man, a man who is as dangerous to her heart as he is to making her the most alluring woman at an auction which will earn her enough money to save her family. This story is filled with heat, steam and passion between two wonderful characters who are just so right for each other it will have you rooting for them from the start.