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The Temptress

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The Hexagons

Six siblings, separated at birth yet bound by destiny, the Hexagons embark on daring and perilous adventures. They attract women of extraordinary beauty, fierce determination, and unmatched spirit, intertwining their fates and capturing their hearts forever. Their passionate exploits become the talk of London and the envy of the English countryside.

The Temptress

Richard, a Hexagon, is a man of many a rake, a rogue, a shrewd businessman, and a celebrated war hero. Living defiantly, he eschews the expectations of a duke, accountable to no one. However, when he meets Katya, everything shifts. She is a temptation he cannot resist—a temptress unlike any other, and he is determined to make her his, regardless of the consequences to her reputation or his own. Stability, respect, and companionship are what Katya’s marriage offers, but not the passion she secretly craves. Irresistibly drawn to Richard’s dark allure and scandalous reputation, she faces a dilemma between duty and desire. Surrendering to her feelings risks her social standing, her honour, her very life—and her heart. Will she dare to take the risk?

About the Author

Simi S. Ramdutt was born and raised in the scenic landscapes of South Africa. With a deep-seated passion for historical romance, she is captivated by the genre's enchanting blend of history and allure. Enthralled by the mysteries of ancient castles, Ramdutt is particularly drawn to the stories whispered by their cold, moss-covered stones. Beyond her literary pursuits, she excels in the culinary arts, where she combines flavours with the skill of a true artisan, aspiring to create masterpieces in the kitchen. In an era where personal lives are often public spectacle, Ramdutt chooses to keep her private life, especially matters concerning her children and relatives, shrouded in mystery, embracing the intrigue that privacy affords.

437 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 24, 2025

1124 people want to read

About the author

Simi Ramdutt

6 books47 followers

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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Tess Marais.
109 reviews11 followers
May 26, 2025
Simi does it again with another incredible historical romance book!❤️‍🔥
Katya and Richard’s book is officially my favourite in the series and I am so excited for the next book.🤭

I love how Simi always has the perfect balance of action, romance, character development, and plot twists and turns in her books.🤯

Katya is a beautiful FMC who deserves the world and I’m so happy she and Richard found each other.🥹
Their love is so precious and I’m so happy they got their HEA.❤️

Richard is 🔥🔥🔥! I love this man so much!!😮‍💨
He is so protective of Katya and loves her so fiercely.❤️ They face challenges together and individually but it helps them grow and allows their relationship to become stronger. Every moment of this book was incredible and I never wanted it to end.🤯

I love Simi and her historical romance series so much. I can’t wait to see where she takes us with this next book.🤭
Profile Image for Chanté Du Preez.
33 reviews1 follower
March 23, 2025
I'm not a big fan of a certain trope in this book, but Simi wrote it so well, you can almost look past it.

The way Richard left behind being a rake the moment he met Katya, but is unwilling to let anyone know until way later, although Everyone can just tell, is everything.

I loved Richard's character from when we met him in Book 2, and seeing his love story and personal growth unfold was just what I needed.

Fav Quotes:
- "It's a sanctuary of the heart, a place where time stands still."
- "She knew that running away was not a viable solution, but the longing for escape remained a persistent ache in her heart."
- "And you would do well to remember that even the most powerful man can be brought down by those he underestimates."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
201 reviews21 followers
March 22, 2025
Was in awe of everything about The Temptress, which is the third book in the Hexagon series, another perfect spicy historical romance.

Katya and Richard are the main characters whom I absolutely loved and adored. I laughed, cried and loved with them as persons amongst every step of their journey. I also enjoyed reading about some of the characters that featured in the first 2 books.

Simi remains one of my most favorite historical romance authors of all times. I don’t know how she does it, but it can only be explained as amazing talent and the ability to take her readers on the most romantic of journeys.
Profile Image for Twanette Bester.
64 reviews8 followers
April 9, 2025
Simi does it again!!!! With every new book in the series I think that it's impossible to love a couple more, and yet Simi proves me wrong every single time.

The Temptress is the third installment in The Hexagons series, and here we follow Katya and Richard. Katya is a married woman, but unfortunately for Katya, married life isn't everything she envisioned it to be. Richard, the Rake that he is, takes one look at the stunning Katya and knows there is no way that he will be able to stop himself from pursuing her.
I absolutely adored Katya. Simi does feisty women like no other, and while Katya is that, her most notable characteristics are her loyalty and empathy. The way she handled the situation with her husband broke my heart and gave me so much respect for her.
Richard in turn is fiercely protective of Katya and how he stepped into the role when circumstances called for it, was truly awe inspiring.

Now, eventhough there is no slow burn here, Simi made it feel like it. The chemistry between Katya and Richard was electrifying, and the moment they eventually came together, it felt as if I'd been waiting years for it to happen.

We also see the couples from the previous two books, with their little ones. And, Chin is back!!! with his beloved Hannah. I was kicking my feet in glee at the first mention of his name. And... I've got a confession...Chin reminds me of Mr. Chow from The Hangover😅(it's a good thing).

Overall, another phenomenal read, and just for all the feels, my favourite in the series so far. If you enjoy Historical Fiction with unforgettable characters don't hesitate to give this series a read.

🌹Thank you to the author and for a gifted copy and stunning pr box. No one does boxes like you Simi, and I am unbelievably grateful for every thoughtful item inside.
Profile Image for Julia.
14 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2025
4/5 stars
The Temptress by Simi Ramdutt is a captivating historical romance that shines brightly as the third installment in the Hexagons Series. With its lush settings, complex characters, and sizzling chemistry, this novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and romance.

Building on the foundation established in the previous books, Ramdutt masterfully weaves together historical detail, romance, and drama to create a narrative that's both engaging and immersive. The Hexagons Series just keeps getting better!

The romance is set up in such a way that it presents as a slow-burn delight, with a tantalizing tension that simmers between the leads. The characters are well-developed with rich inner lives that make them feel fully realized.

Ramdutt's writing is evocative and vivid, transporting you to the world of the 18th century Regency era. The historical research is meticulous, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

While "The Temptress" can be enjoyed as a standalone, readers familiar with the series will appreciate the continued development of beloved characters and the intricate web of relationships.

If you're looking for a historical romance that will sweep you off your feet, "The Temptress" is an excellent choice.

Favorite aspects:
- Lush historical settings
- Complex characters
- Sizzling chemistry between leads
- Engaging narrative
- Continued depth in the Hexagons Series

Recommendation:
For fans of authors like Philippa Gregory, Julia Quinn, or Jude Deveraux, "The Temptress" is a great fit. If you've enjoyed the previous books in the Hexagons Series, you'll love this latest installment!
Profile Image for Tee.
12 reviews14 followers
March 22, 2025
One of the best historical romance books I have ever read!! OMG I loved every single part of the book starting from the cover page!! Have you seen the cover??!!The writing style is through the roof and I love how everything even the simplest of things are described in detail. Everything is described in detail and written in perfection. I have been learning new vocabulary, which is also something I appreciate. Chefs kiss!! I love the fact that this is a series because I don’t think I would have survived reading just one book. The temptress follows Richard’s love story with his one and only Katya, the temptress. I love how the story builds up and how every character in the book is introduced. Every character had their own unique entrance which I found interesting. This book mainly focuses on Richard and Katya but all the hexagons are still part of the book which I thought was an amazing feature. One character I never thought that I would fall in love with is Katya, the way she carries herself, the way she speaks and the way she dresses is literally the true definition of a temptress. I feel as if she is a character that I was drawn to and also the fact that I could somehow relate to her in some way, which made me fall in love with her even more. The plot in this book definitely thickens, which had me wanting to read more. I cannot wait to read the fourth book in this series!!!
The Temptress is definitely a five star read!!
Profile Image for Preleen Pillay.
109 reviews
March 17, 2025
4.5 stars.

This is the third book in the Hexagon Series and it follows Richard and Kayta. A rake who never found an appeal to settling down until he met the beautiful minx that consumes his every thought. However, Katya is not just available for him to swoop him and court, she is married and is expected to produce a male heir as soon as possible. Filled with drama, Fast paced and found family.
Profile Image for Chené Tuck.
Author 1 book34 followers
March 19, 2025
A fabulous read! It is a well written romance that keeps you wanting more. It has a few surprises and you definitely fall more inlove with all the characters as the story progresses. Katya and Richard's story is beautiful.
Profile Image for Shelves_by_sim.
593 reviews8 followers
June 2, 2025
Simi never fails to amaze me with how drop dead gorgeous her covers always are, and The Temptress is no exception. This book is absolutely stunning. It was such a pleasant surprise to find out that this story follows Katya, Bastien and Gaston - characters who have been with us throughout The Journey of Love as well as Love Changes Everything. I actually really love the uniqueness of Katya and Bastien's marriage - especially because of how Bastien's sexual inclinations were severely frowned upon during this era.

I really enjoyed Katya and Richard's chemistry but wow, Simi really knows how to write a rake. For most of these men, I don't really love the whole back and forth between their emotions, the indecision towards their love interest and how much angst it causes between the two characters really gives me anxiety (lol) BUT once they finally accept that they are indeed in love, Richard specifically, I love seeing how their character's develop. Richard would do anything to protect Katya and his family.

As always, Simi's style of writing is so beautiful. I love how she captures every scene, the language, the culture of this time and it really is an experience. Her writing is fast-paced and action-packed and the story reads so fast because of this. The plot is ever-evolving and sometimes it does feel a little overwhelming because so much happens and there are so many villains in the story. I really did not see that plot twist coming with Gaston, though, and I'm honestly still in shock. The story gets wrapped up nicely and you could really feel how happy these characters were in the end!
Profile Image for Tash Reads.
90 reviews13 followers
November 24, 2025
ARC Review- The Temptress by Simi Ramdutt.
Book 3 in the Hexagon series.
Historical Romance.

This story follows Richard, the reformed rake and Duke and the fierce Katya.

Their relationship at first is questionable and a complete scandal… and off course what society lived for back in the day.
The story is packed with passionate love, uncertainty, sadness, laughter and more love.

There are some twists and situations that leaves the reader wondering and needing to know more asap. It’s a book you will struggle to put down, but also need to concentrate to not loose track of what’s happening in the fast paced storyline and big words used :)

I love the ending after all that’s happened. And I look forward to reading the rest of the books in the series.
Profile Image for Madds ✨️.
24 reviews
March 5, 2025
🌹THE TEMPTRESS🌹

Book Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶/5
Pages: 447

"You are my heart, Milaya, my every hope and dream. And now, standing here with you, I realise that everything I have done, every battle I have fought, every sacrifice I have made, has led me to this moment, this perfect, beautiful moment with you"😭❤

Ladies and Gentlemen, The Temptress.

Just like the promise of it's cover, The Temptress, is a precious and fragrant rose, unfolding petal by petal, and within its story blossoms a rare and delicate beauty.

This is the third book in the Hexagons series and I could not put it down!! Richard and Katya were mesmerizing!! These two found love at the most unexpected time and it's precisely the "love at first sight" that gave this book such a dreamy entrance. Katya is just WOW!!  I adore her feistiness and her care for everyone. Temptress she is!! She has an addictive personality and always had me smiling when reading her thoughts. She kept Richard on his toes (as she should🤭) and was loved by all of the characters!! Katya has immaculate taste in her style and BONUS she has a secret passage in her room!!!! HOW COOL IS SHE!!! I was so connected to her🤍 Richard... Oh my word, he's a dream come true!!! Talk about a reformed rake who fell head over heels. His softness for her melts me every time! I love how he notices Katya the second she enters a room. His nickname for her, "Milaya" was the perfect touch!! What I loved the most was the fact that he didn't just want something casual, he wanted her, everything that she is, even though the odds were against them!!🩰🧸

Fans of TJOL and LCE... we were spoilt!!! Simi has truly delivered!!! We had Lizzy and James AND George and Eva scenes. Don't forget baby William and Emma!! AND we get Chin and Hannah scenes🪐"James raised his glass. 'To my beautiful princess.' George echoed, 'To my golden goddess" AHHHH

I loved Richard and Eva's sibling bond- how Eva knew he wasn't himself and gave him advice. This series is all about friendship and the little character bonds have my heart. From the Hexagon brothers bond to Lizzy, Eva and Katya's sisterhood and even the banter between the wives and the Hexagons. It is all so magical! James, George and Richard are truly reformed rakes to lovesick gentlemen and all thanks to our dazzling fmcs🤭

We meet some new characters (if you know you know🤭🐣) and some old ones. We lose some along the way too but Simi but puts everything together so well. The were tons of emotions felt throughout this book. Our characters go through ups and downs but that's what helps them come out stronger, treasure their relationships and savor the warmth around them.

This was a 5 star read for me and I lived and breathed this story. I felt so at home with all of my comfort characters and I didn't want to say goodbye. I'm so excited for the next book and I can't wait to read Nicholas' story!!☁️🍒
Profile Image for Irenes Dragon Nest.
72 reviews1 follower
June 2, 2025
A swoony, scandalous escape into forbidden love and aching devotion.

This is book three in Simi Ramdutt’s Hexagon Series, and while I’ve loved the journey so far, this one feels different—like a secret kiss behind closed doors. Intense, intoxicating, and absolutely unforgettable.

We’re thrown headfirst into the story of Katya—married, sharp, vulnerable, and yearning for a love that truly sees her—and Richard, a reformed rake who is, no exaggeration, human wildfire in breeches. The second he lays eyes on her, it’s over. He’s done. We’re done. Their chemistry is the kind that makes you hold your breath and reread whole paragraphs just to feel that spark again. It’s messy. It’s magnetic. And it’s so deeply romantic.

Now, I expected the whole “cheating husband” trope to play out a certain way… but Simi threw me a curveball. Katya’s husband? He’s not the villain. He’s layered, loyal in his own way, and heartbreakingly kind. He can’t give her the love she deserves, but he never stops trying to support her. That twist hit me in the chest and gave the whole story a deeper emotional pull.

Of course, there’s plenty of drama—secrets bubbling up, betrayals that sting, redemptions that feel earned—and those deliciously stolen moments between Katya and Richard that made me want to scream into a pillow. Their connection isn’t just lust, it’s soul-deep. And when they finally give in… whew. Let’s just say I needed a cold drink and a quiet moment.

One of my absolute favorite things? The found family vibes. The Hexagons are back in full force and the banter? Immaculate. Their teasing, their love, the little glimpses into their lives, it reinforced their bond and brotherhood in my mind. Absolute perfection!

If I have one teeny tiny complaint (forgive me, Simi), it’s that the villains felt more like background noise than real threats. I wanted just a little more consequence to really raise the stakes. But honestly? That’s me being picky, because the rest of the book is such a dream.

And while Katya and Richard completely seduced me, I still have a soft spot for George & Eva—those two own my heart. So yes, this book is a tiny sliver of a star behind Love Changes Everything for me. But only because my loyalty is that real.

Simi Ramdutt, take a bow—you’ve done it again. 💋

I want to thank you for my stunning book box that had me captivated since the moment i opened it. a real true treat.

All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Natasha (The Bookbasket).
375 reviews9 followers
March 31, 2025
We're back in the world of the Hexagons, and honestly, it feels good to read an interconnected standalone where you know all the characters. Meeting the new characters in the beginning was like a "whoa" moment for me because it kind of gave me the vibes of when King Charles was found in the gardens with Camilla while he was married to Diana. Only me? Okay lol.

I liked the writing in this book. Simi manages to set the scene so beautifully with her descriptive writing. Her characters, I feel, do need a bit more rounding. One moment, the FMC is mad and screams, the next she is crying, the next she is trying to guilt trip her husband. All this happened in three short pages. Now I'm not saying her outburst isn't warranted, I mean, her husband cheated on her, but as a reader, I would've liked to sit with some of these emotions a little longer. Running through them made me not connect with her as much as I wanted to, especially since she is the new FMC. I only managed to connect with her halfway through the book.

Jumping to her husband, although I did not agree with his actions, I liked him. He was trying to wear the body of someone he was not, and trying to conceal that from everyone was hard on him. He did, however, find support in some of the characters, and I loved that for him. However, his lover? Yeah, he had the personality of a wet towel. I would've liked to see more of his character in the story, that way his betrayal would've been a little more impactful.

There were some parts of the book I enjoyed more than others, especially the slow build-up of Richard and Katya's relationship, but the three villain saga was a little too much for me, especially since there were no real consequences for the last two's actions.

For the most part, I believe Simi is a talented writer, especially in the regency-style books. I don't read them often, but when I do, I inhale them.

Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC for my honest review.
31 reviews
April 27, 2025
The Temptress is book 3 in The Hexagons series, and I absolutely devoured it!

The historical setting really drags you into that world, and Simi did such a good job of describing that I felt like a character in the book♥️

Katya is such an incredible and heartwarming character, even though she endured so much from the start. Even through all the difficult circumstances she faced, she kept her head high and fought through all challenges. She is an inspiration for sure!
I'm so happy she got her happy ending with someone as incredible as Richard. They fit perfectly together!
They are my favorite characters in the book without a doubt🙌

My least favorite characters should come with no surprise, Alexei and Louis. These two are like petrol and fire, nothing good will come from these two. Nevertheless, they certainly made for the perfect villians in this book. They had me on the edge of my seat more than once!

I can't wait for the 4th book in this series🤩

If you like historical fiction books with romance, action, and a little spice, definitely check out Simi's books! You will not be disappointed ♥️
Profile Image for Anoshi Saretzki.
Author 2 books21 followers
February 3, 2025
I just can't get over this cover! 😍

What could be worse than being trapped in an arranged marriage where true love is just out of reach? That is Katya's lot in life, until Richard all but falls into her lap.

The third installment of this historical romance series is well paced with tension and intrigue pulling at the reader from start to finish. Having read books 1 and 2 in the series, I'm impressed at how Simi weaves together the 6 central characters storylines, spanning multiple countries and pov's.

And just as you expect the story to taper down towards the end, the stakes ramp up even higher, keeping you glued till the very last page!
Profile Image for Michelle.
107 reviews
March 28, 2025
Simi has once again created a beautiful love story in the Hexagon universe. Richard and Katya’s story is filled with temptation, as the title suggests, and romance and some action too.

This is the third book in the Hexagon series and it follows Richard and Katya on their journey to each other. Along the way we get to see some of the characters from previous books, which I love.

Simi is showing us again why she is one of our favourite historical romance authors by trapping us in this enthralling world she has written and leaves us begging for the next instalment in the series.

4.5 red roses out of 5.
Profile Image for Ashisha Sewpal.
113 reviews2 followers
May 2, 2025
Richard is a Duke who, like all the other Hexagons, is a rake, rogue and shrewd businessman.

Katya is a woman with a secret. Trying to escape a dangerous situation, a rake is the last thing on her mind.

She enlists Richard's help to escape and come to England. Richard is taken with Katya the moment he sees her.

This book is filled with intrigue, action and war. I love the way Simi writes her stories. Her world building is beautiful and her characters are strong and tender too. I love that the FMC is not submissive.

She has got me back into historical fiction. Looking forward to book 4 and the next Duke in the series.
Profile Image for Janine Barnard.
102 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2025
I love Simi's one of my utmost favorites historical romance authors , enjoy every page i turner keeps me glued to the book and pulls you in.

The temptress is the 3rd book in the Hexagon series and I have read everyone of them.

Katya and Richard being the main characters who grew on me so quickly and I love them. You grow with them cry, laugh ect and then the including of the the characters in the first 3 books 📚 made it awesome it pulls the series full circle.

Highly recommend if you enjoy historical romance
Profile Image for Arini Vlotman.
Author 5 books55 followers
January 26, 2025
The Temptress is my favorite installment in this series so far. I enjoyed the story that was weaved until a familiar title and how the author gave a bit of the previous plots but from a different angle. Katya is a layered character who pulls you from page to page.
And the twists, so many, so good, so unpredictable!
Highly recommend if you enjoy historical romances with spice, written in a modern voice with all the classic tropes in this genre!

28 reviews
March 27, 2025
The Temptress was a perfect continuation of the Hexagonians series. The third book in the series and with Richard and Katya as the main characters, it was another beautiful journey with a lot of emotion.

Whilst Katya and Richard's story is the main focus, it is great to see how the other Hexagonians are developing and how those from books 1 and 2 are continuing their story.

Thank you Simi for creating such a lovely world for your readers to live in.
Profile Image for Micaela.
34 reviews12 followers
May 26, 2025
Scandalous, steamy, and so much fun!

Richard is a rogue, a war hero, and one of the infamous Hexagons but he’s never met anyone like Katya. She’s married (gasp), craving passion (double gasp), and totally drawn to his dark charm.

Their chemistry? Off the charts.
The stakes? High.
The drama? Delicious.

If you love historical romance with broody heroes, bold heroines, and a touch of danger, this one’s for you!
Profile Image for Whitney .
987 reviews31 followers
June 2, 2025
The Temptress is the third book in the The Hexagons series and I just loved getting to reenter this amazing world. This was just a great read. I was just drawn into this story so thoroughly. The characters were just amazing and I was totally in the mix with them. I just had so much fun reading this story. I can’t wait to read more wonderful stories from this series.
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