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Dangerous Liaisons #2
Sweeter Than Sin
Her reputation ruined by one impetuous mistake, Lady Kyra Sterling lives as a recluse, determined never to make herself vulnerable to love again. Then she meets Rafael, a half-Spanish, half-English war hero.
Hoping to heal his own inner pain, Rafael has come to visit his uncle. He doesn't expect to strike up friendship with his neighbor, the shy Lady Kyra. But when she offers to help translate his Spanish grandmother's notes and recipes for chocolate, a special bond forms.
Then the man who ruined and jilted Kyra returns, demanding marriage and her dowry. Now Kyra must choose: become vulnerable again and seek Rafael's help, or quietly return to her reclusive life and succumb to a loveless marriage. DANGEROUS LIAISONS SERIES, in order
A Diamond in the Rough
Sweeter Than Sin
Devil May Care
INTREPID HEROINES SERIES, in order
Code of Honor
The Hired Hero
A Stroke of Luck
Pistols at Dawn
SCANDALOUS SECRETS SERIES, in order
The Banished Bride
Lady of Letters
The Major's Mistake
LESSONS IN LOVE, in series order
The Defiant Governess
Second Chances
The Storybook Hero
Hoping to heal his own inner pain, Rafael has come to visit his uncle. He doesn't expect to strike up friendship with his neighbor, the shy Lady Kyra. But when she offers to help translate his Spanish grandmother's notes and recipes for chocolate, a special bond forms.
Then the man who ruined and jilted Kyra returns, demanding marriage and her dowry. Now Kyra must choose: become vulnerable again and seek Rafael's help, or quietly return to her reclusive life and succumb to a loveless marriage. DANGEROUS LIAISONS SERIES, in order
A Diamond in the Rough
Sweeter Than Sin
Devil May Care
INTREPID HEROINES SERIES, in order
Code of Honor
The Hired Hero
A Stroke of Luck
Pistols at Dawn
SCANDALOUS SECRETS SERIES, in order
The Banished Bride
Lady of Letters
The Major's Mistake
LESSONS IN LOVE, in series order
The Defiant Governess
Second Chances
The Storybook Hero
- GenresHistorical
222 pages, Paperback
First published October 5, 2014
28 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Pickens
31 books103 followersAndrea Pickens is a pseudonym for an author who has also written as Cara Elliott for Grand Central and Andrea Penrose for Kensington and NAL. Her historical mysteries and romantic novels are set in Regency England, an era that has fascinated her ever since she picked up a copy of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
A graduate of Yale, she has won numerous writing awards, including two Daphne Du Maurier Awards for historical mystery, the Golden Leaf, and she’s been a three-time finalist for the prestigious RITA Award. Her books have been translated into nine different languages.
A graduate of Yale, she has won numerous writing awards, including two Daphne Du Maurier Awards for historical mystery, the Golden Leaf, and she’s been a three-time finalist for the prestigious RITA Award. Her books have been translated into nine different languages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
March 22, 2025
Wow, what a story. I couldn’t put it down. Lady Kyra Sterling had to learn a very hard lesson that your action has consequences. She had always been a spitted lass, loving to try anything dangerous or not. Even her favorite horse is high strung and doesn’t like anyone but her. Being a duke's daughter, she has lived a life of full of love and luxury pushing all the ton rules. When she accepts a bet that she can ride the estate at night little did she know it would chance her life for every. Racing at night with only the moon as light even after her sister, told her it was reckless. Racing too fast for the wet ground the horses fall causing the death of her sister and injuring her leg. That would be enough grift and pain, but she also had her fiancé, Lord Matherson break off the engagement and rumors spread ruining her reputation too. No wonder she hides at her father's county estate while her leg heals. She has tons of regrets, making it hard to eat or be around anyone. She loses herself in her painting of flowers and plants. Rafael de Villafranca Greeley was raised in Spain, with an English father and Spanish mother. While fighting for England he is badly injured almost killed. He was saved by his cousin, Jack who died doing so. Dealing with his leg healing and the regrets and death of his friend and cousin Jack he goes to the country. He needs to speak with his uncle, Jacks father about what happened. He was raised by his grandmother, Dona Maria. She was wonderful woman who knew all about chocolate, the plants and history. Now Rafe wants to honor her by putting all her information and notes into a book. He speaks English but has trouble with finding the same words for Spanish ones. While working on the book he meets Kyra who helps him they began a friendship. She will help him with the language, and he will try to help her become more herself. Losing some of the regret and sorrow. Their's is a slow and growing attachment with many twists and turns along the way. As always, the villain shows up to try and ruin everything. With help from some new friends and old ones along with a wonderful, funny dog named Hero he may have taken on more than he expected. This is a great series and can be read in any order. I received an ARC from the author and want to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
March 30, 2025
Friendship and Chocolate
“Sweeter Than Sin” written by Andrea Pickens is book two in her series called Dangerous Liaisons. This story was definitely heavy on the sweet and extra light on the sin, more innuendo than action. In spite of steamy shortcomings, the story presented Rafael, a perfect gentleman compared to Kyra’s former fiancé, Matherton, the man who dumped her after a wager went horribly wrong and information leaked out that she was no longer a virtuous woman. Information about Matherton, trickled down through the story until the reader learns the whole truth behind his actions. Meanwhile an achingly slow friendship builds between Lady Kyra, who had retreated to her father’s country estate and Rafael, wounded from war, he is staying at a neighboring estate. Kyra is an interesting character. She’s artistically talented, smart, impetuous. Unfortunately she is self deprecating and has withdrawn from life. Yet she is lonely when she meets the gentle Rafael, visiting his uncle to heal from war wounds and the mental shock of losing his cousin to a French soldier during battle. He is intrigued by his neighbor and is drawn to her. Rafael is not the typical man of the time. He cares not about the gossip surrounding Kyra and he likes to dabble in the kitchen recreating his grandmother’s chocolate concoctions. He is actually writing a book about chocolate from his grandmother’s vast research. Kyra and Rafael, both broken in their own way, begin to heal as their connection developed and deepened. The story doesn’t hurry until Matherton tries to reinsert himself in Kyra’s life. Then, the story speeds up through to the end. Another character I liked was Hero, who definitely lived up to his name, was loyal and protective. Overall I would say I liked this sweet historical romance and would recommend it. Keep in mind some of the themes are mature but the story is tame, so if you are looking for lots of spice and steam this doesn’t deliver on that mark. There are kisses but not a lot of them. This is the first book I have read by this author. There are enough positives for me to
try another at a later date.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. My thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“Sweeter Than Sin” written by Andrea Pickens is book two in her series called Dangerous Liaisons. This story was definitely heavy on the sweet and extra light on the sin, more innuendo than action. In spite of steamy shortcomings, the story presented Rafael, a perfect gentleman compared to Kyra’s former fiancé, Matherton, the man who dumped her after a wager went horribly wrong and information leaked out that she was no longer a virtuous woman. Information about Matherton, trickled down through the story until the reader learns the whole truth behind his actions. Meanwhile an achingly slow friendship builds between Lady Kyra, who had retreated to her father’s country estate and Rafael, wounded from war, he is staying at a neighboring estate. Kyra is an interesting character. She’s artistically talented, smart, impetuous. Unfortunately she is self deprecating and has withdrawn from life. Yet she is lonely when she meets the gentle Rafael, visiting his uncle to heal from war wounds and the mental shock of losing his cousin to a French soldier during battle. He is intrigued by his neighbor and is drawn to her. Rafael is not the typical man of the time. He cares not about the gossip surrounding Kyra and he likes to dabble in the kitchen recreating his grandmother’s chocolate concoctions. He is actually writing a book about chocolate from his grandmother’s vast research. Kyra and Rafael, both broken in their own way, begin to heal as their connection developed and deepened. The story doesn’t hurry until Matherton tries to reinsert himself in Kyra’s life. Then, the story speeds up through to the end. Another character I liked was Hero, who definitely lived up to his name, was loyal and protective. Overall I would say I liked this sweet historical romance and would recommend it. Keep in mind some of the themes are mature but the story is tame, so if you are looking for lots of spice and steam this doesn’t deliver on that mark. There are kisses but not a lot of them. This is the first book I have read by this author. There are enough positives for me to
try another at a later date.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. My thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
March 18, 2025
Lady Kyra Sterling lives her life with impulsivity until a tragedy leaves her reputation in ruins. In the wake of the accident, she withdraws into herself, spending her days in the gardens and painting, until Rafael arrives at his uncle's estate. Burdened by the battlefield death of his cousin Jack, Rafael de Villafranca seeks solace in his English uncle's home.
Both Kyra and Rafael grapple with guilt, regret, and the challenges of moving forward. Despite her initial resistance, Kyra finds herself drawn to Rafael's gentle nature and calming presence, leading to a burgeoning friendship.
Rafael immerses himself in recreating his grandmother's notes and recipes for Theobroma cacao, with the intention of compiling them into a book. Kyra assists him in this endeavor, slowly allowing herself to wonder if a second chance with Rafael is within reach.
However, their friendship faces a severe test when the man responsible for Kyra's downfall returns, eager for her dowry, and threatens fresh scandal unless she marries him. Kyra is thrust into a difficult decision: should she trust Rafael and seek his help, or let her past mistakes dictate her future happiness?
The author crafts a heartfelt and compelling narrative. Rafael’s patience with Kyra, giving her the space to forgive herself and embrace love again, adds depth to their romance. Their relationship is a slow burn—sweet, tender, and believable. I found Rafael’s role as Kyra’s defender against the man who tarnished her reputation endearing.
Andrea Pickens continues to deliver stories that are engaging and authentic. The introduction of well-developed secondary characters in this narrative adds richness and depth, and I eagerly anticipate their stories. This book offers a charming blend of romance and resilience, leaving readers hopeful for Kyra and Rafael's future and eager for more tales in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Both Kyra and Rafael grapple with guilt, regret, and the challenges of moving forward. Despite her initial resistance, Kyra finds herself drawn to Rafael's gentle nature and calming presence, leading to a burgeoning friendship.
Rafael immerses himself in recreating his grandmother's notes and recipes for Theobroma cacao, with the intention of compiling them into a book. Kyra assists him in this endeavor, slowly allowing herself to wonder if a second chance with Rafael is within reach.
However, their friendship faces a severe test when the man responsible for Kyra's downfall returns, eager for her dowry, and threatens fresh scandal unless she marries him. Kyra is thrust into a difficult decision: should she trust Rafael and seek his help, or let her past mistakes dictate her future happiness?
The author crafts a heartfelt and compelling narrative. Rafael’s patience with Kyra, giving her the space to forgive herself and embrace love again, adds depth to their romance. Their relationship is a slow burn—sweet, tender, and believable. I found Rafael’s role as Kyra’s defender against the man who tarnished her reputation endearing.
Andrea Pickens continues to deliver stories that are engaging and authentic. The introduction of well-developed secondary characters in this narrative adds richness and depth, and I eagerly anticipate their stories. This book offers a charming blend of romance and resilience, leaving readers hopeful for Kyra and Rafael's future and eager for more tales in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 24, 2025
The power of Love, Trust and Chocolate
This story is about two broken souls that are drawn to each others pain and loss.
Each filling a void that they never knew could be filled.
Rafael has lost his family to war in Spain, came home injured from the battle field in which his cousin a fellow officer sacrificed his own life to save his. He heads to England to tell his uncle in person of all that has happened. He plans to stay but takes very little with him. As he packs a few things he decided to take his grandmother chest full of recipes, research and lores about the a cacao tree and chocolate.
Kyra has broken her leg in a reckless accident that ultimately causes the death of her sister, a broken engagement and a ruined reputation. All of which she feels responsible for. She isolates herself in the country buried in grief and shame.
As Rafael get reacquainted with his uncle and continues to heal, he begins transcribing his grandmother’s passion for chocolate into a book. Along one of his walks he meets Kyra and they develop a friendship. He coaxes her from her isolation gradually by seeking her help with the translation into English from Spanish.
As their friendship grows, the past comes back to threaten it. Together with love and trust they find their way through the danger to the future.
This was a quick sweet read. I would recommend it and look forward to the next one in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is about two broken souls that are drawn to each others pain and loss.
Each filling a void that they never knew could be filled.
Rafael has lost his family to war in Spain, came home injured from the battle field in which his cousin a fellow officer sacrificed his own life to save his. He heads to England to tell his uncle in person of all that has happened. He plans to stay but takes very little with him. As he packs a few things he decided to take his grandmother chest full of recipes, research and lores about the a cacao tree and chocolate.
Kyra has broken her leg in a reckless accident that ultimately causes the death of her sister, a broken engagement and a ruined reputation. All of which she feels responsible for. She isolates herself in the country buried in grief and shame.
As Rafael get reacquainted with his uncle and continues to heal, he begins transcribing his grandmother’s passion for chocolate into a book. Along one of his walks he meets Kyra and they develop a friendship. He coaxes her from her isolation gradually by seeking her help with the translation into English from Spanish.
As their friendship grows, the past comes back to threaten it. Together with love and trust they find their way through the danger to the future.
This was a quick sweet read. I would recommend it and look forward to the next one in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2025
Lady Kyra Stirling suffered cruelly at the hands of society after the man she trusted betrayed her and brought about her ruin. She becomes a recluse, shunning society. Her neighbour’s nephew, Jack, Rafael de Villafranca returns from the war traumatised by the death of his cousin. Hoping to find some piece and quiet, he settles at his English uncle’s home, planning to recreate his grandmother’s recipes, and compile them.
Both Kyra and Rafael need to heal and recover from their respective “wounds” inflicted by society, and the solitude and piece of the country enable their healing. At the same time, Rafael’s patience and gentle nature gives Kyra the hope of experiencing love again.
While their relationship develops further, the man who caused Kyra’s ruination in society’s eyes is back insisting she marry him, determined to get her dowry. If she does not, he will reveal her “sins” to society!
Will Kyra allow him to dictate her life once more or will her resilience of spirit help her embrace Rafael and all he offers. A lovely story by Andrea Pickens, an excellent storyteller that I thoroughly enjoyed. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.
Both Kyra and Rafael need to heal and recover from their respective “wounds” inflicted by society, and the solitude and piece of the country enable their healing. At the same time, Rafael’s patience and gentle nature gives Kyra the hope of experiencing love again.
While their relationship develops further, the man who caused Kyra’s ruination in society’s eyes is back insisting she marry him, determined to get her dowry. If she does not, he will reveal her “sins” to society!
Will Kyra allow him to dictate her life once more or will her resilience of spirit help her embrace Rafael and all he offers. A lovely story by Andrea Pickens, an excellent storyteller that I thoroughly enjoyed. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.
March 25, 2025
Lady Kyra and Rafael find themselves in the country, licking their wounds. They are both dealing with physical wounds, grief and guilt. Does this make them a good match for each other, or is their baggage a reason to stay clear of each other? The latter might be easier said than done, considering their attraction for each other and the fact that they are neighbours.
I like that although there was drama and angst, there were some lovely romantic moments and some comical moments in Kyra and Rafael's stories. I enjoyed the author's descriptions of the beautiful watercolour paintings Kyra painted and hearing all about some stunning chocolates Rafael made using his grandmother's recipes
If you like your romances to be steamy, then this isn't the book for you. This is a sweet romance that still manages to portray the passion building between the couple without going into the bedroom.
I enjoyed their story, although the conclusion for the 'bad guy' wasn't as bad as he deserved. He needed more of a comeuppance! I won't say anymore, but trust me, the guy really is evil!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I like that although there was drama and angst, there were some lovely romantic moments and some comical moments in Kyra and Rafael's stories. I enjoyed the author's descriptions of the beautiful watercolour paintings Kyra painted and hearing all about some stunning chocolates Rafael made using his grandmother's recipes
If you like your romances to be steamy, then this isn't the book for you. This is a sweet romance that still manages to portray the passion building between the couple without going into the bedroom.
I enjoyed their story, although the conclusion for the 'bad guy' wasn't as bad as he deserved. He needed more of a comeuppance! I won't say anymore, but trust me, the guy really is evil!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2025
We have a very handsome and debonair Rafael de Villefranca who is a war hero and suddenly the heir to his Uncle Aubrey the Earl of Hendrie! Rafael has a cousin who they believed perished in the war (Jack)! We also have a childhood friend of Jack Lady Kyra Sterling tainted by scandal! Her betrothed who was supposed to protect her started vicious rumors after the death of her sister and her own injury after a tragic accident!
Is it possible to fall in love over delicious choclate pieces instead of just in Choclate but candy form? Yes it is the details on the Choclate used and the translation is excellent!
But there is a villain at loose and he must be vanquished!
Rafael is certainly up to the task! We also have a wonderful dog named Hero who is also the star of the show!
A love of chocolate, good friends and a very handsome man should be enough? But are they because desperate people do desperate things!
Bravo you definitely have to look beyond the surface of a person!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Is it possible to fall in love over delicious choclate pieces instead of just in Choclate but candy form? Yes it is the details on the Choclate used and the translation is excellent!
But there is a villain at loose and he must be vanquished!
Rafael is certainly up to the task! We also have a wonderful dog named Hero who is also the star of the show!
A love of chocolate, good friends and a very handsome man should be enough? But are they because desperate people do desperate things!
Bravo you definitely have to look beyond the surface of a person!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2025
Kyra and Rafael are both plagued with guilt over a past tragedy. Kyra blames herself for her sister’s death in a riding accident. Rafael believes himself responsible for his cousin’s death on the battlefield. They meet when Rafael comes to his uncle’s estate to recuperate from his war wounds. They become friends and learn to trust and comfort each other. Maybe it will lead to more. This is a heartwarming story of friendship, love, learning from our mistakes, and moving forward. The characters are interesting, strong, and relatable. There are some very welcome surprises, a very unwelcome villain, some yummy chocolate recipes, and a very happy ending.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
April 10, 2025
Bonding over watercolour and chocolate
Kyra lives in disgrace in the country having sworn off anything which is not her beloved flowers and watercolours. Rafael de Villafranca suffers survivor guilt over the death of his cousin on the battlefield. He is visiting his uncle in England and endeavouring to sort through his Spanish grandmother notes and recipes about the cacao plant. When he meets Kyra in the woods, he is impressed by her talent, and they form a connection. However, their attraction is imperilled when the bounder who ruined Kyra returns, desperate for her dowry. Will she be able to trust Rafael to help her or will she resign herself to a life without love?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kyra lives in disgrace in the country having sworn off anything which is not her beloved flowers and watercolours. Rafael de Villafranca suffers survivor guilt over the death of his cousin on the battlefield. He is visiting his uncle in England and endeavouring to sort through his Spanish grandmother notes and recipes about the cacao plant. When he meets Kyra in the woods, he is impressed by her talent, and they form a connection. However, their attraction is imperilled when the bounder who ruined Kyra returns, desperate for her dowry. Will she be able to trust Rafael to help her or will she resign herself to a life without love?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2020
I really enjoyed the story. The author is one that I enjoy. I read her books under two other names. The male character in this book is very similar to another character that the author has written a series about under a different name. Both are half spanish with expertise/love of chocolate. Both are looking to publish thier grandmother's chocolate recipes/journals into a book. Both have war injuries to thier leg. My problem with this book is the lack of editing. Thier were numerous missing words, extra words or letters left off of words that changed the word to another. Every mistake took me out of the story.
March 24, 2025
This second book in the Dangerous Liaisons series was an exciting, captivating, and well written historical romance. It had drama, action, betrayal, death, kidnapping, and so many emotional issues and intense plot twists that kept me very entertained. An accident and a war cause loss and drastic change in many lives. A chance encounter leads to a new path to recovery, and a lovely stray dog joins on this journey. The information throughout about chocolate was very interesting. The intense but awesome surprise that shocks and gives happiness and joy was wonderful. I enjoyed this heartwarming and beautiful story of how love can overcome many things. I highly recommend reading!
December 1, 2019
I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for my honest review. Kyra and Rafael have each suffered loss, each dealing with it in his own way. Kyra has sheltered herself from the world, shunned by her former friends. Rafael on the other hand turns to his only surviving relative to give and receive comfort. Even as Kyra tries to tame her heart away from the dashing young man, Rafe becomes her knight errant to help her reclaim her spirit. Great story but leaves a lot of pertinent facts to the story up to the reader's imagination. Needs better editing as well.
March 24, 2025
Kyra was reckless when she accepted a dare that injured her and resulted in her sister’s death. Her fiance was a dastard spreading rumors about her so he could break their betrothal, but he’s not done and comes back to hurt and use her more for his own gain if only Rafael and Hero can stop him. Rafael was sexy with his Spanish accent, how he saved the stray dog Hero from abusers, how he brings his grandmother’s passion for chocolate in a new book, and how he cares for Kyra despite her pushing him away over her past and shame over it.
March 24, 2025
This book made me hungry for chocolate!! The hero was always making candy and hot chocolate, and I was here for it.
Kyra has been living in the country after breaking her leg and also having her reputation being ruined by a dastardly ex.
Rafael is healing from an injury and has discovered that Kyra is his neighbor.
This book has all of the sweetest things, including a rescue pup named Hero . A very feel good romance. Now I need go and buy some chocolate!
Thank you to Oliver Heber and Booksprout for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Kyra has been living in the country after breaking her leg and also having her reputation being ruined by a dastardly ex.
Rafael is healing from an injury and has discovered that Kyra is his neighbor.
This book has all of the sweetest things, including a rescue pup named Hero . A very feel good romance. Now I need go and buy some chocolate!
Thank you to Oliver Heber and Booksprout for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
March 27, 2025
A lively young girl becomes a deeply wounded soul in this gentle romance between Lady Kyra and Rafel, who sees in her an artist and a kindred spirit. My heart ached for Kyra as she tried to block out the nastiness of gossip created by a mean-spirited individual. However, in Rafael, she receives acceptance, healing, and the sweet taste of chocolate. An unexpected event turns the whole neighbourhood on its head, leaving Rafael and Kyra a chance to explore new opportunities. I received a copy of this heart-warming romance as a gift through BookSprout, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 30, 2025
A Heartfelt Regency Romance
Two wounded souls find solace in each other in this touching Regency tale. After a devastating loss and a scandal that leaves her reeling, Kyra has lost her spark. Meanwhile, Rafael, a war-weary soldier grieving the loss of his cousin, arrives in England seeking peace. When their paths cross, a deep connection begins to form—but danger lurks in the shadows, threatening Kyra’s happiness. Can Rafael protect her and help her heal?
This beautifully written story blends romance, suspense, and unexpected twists. A must-read for fans of Regency romance!
Two wounded souls find solace in each other in this touching Regency tale. After a devastating loss and a scandal that leaves her reeling, Kyra has lost her spark. Meanwhile, Rafael, a war-weary soldier grieving the loss of his cousin, arrives in England seeking peace. When their paths cross, a deep connection begins to form—but danger lurks in the shadows, threatening Kyra’s happiness. Can Rafael protect her and help her heal?
This beautifully written story blends romance, suspense, and unexpected twists. A must-read for fans of Regency romance!
April 1, 2025
The heroine is ruined due to her ex fiancé and his need for money. The hero feels survivor’s guilt after his cousin dies saving him in a battle. They meet and he sees a wounded soul he wants to help. He is trying to write a book about chocolate with some of his grandmother’s recipes. She wants to help him. Things get a little complicated when the ex returns to blackmail her. It was a very enjoyable read even with all the guilt the heroine felt.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 23, 2025
Enjoyed Kyra and Rafael's story of a shy young artist hiding away from the Ton after her reputation is ruined only to meet Rafael a wounded soldier trying to recuperate at his uncle's estate. Can their accidental meeting lead to more, will Kyra learn to trust her heart to someone again especially when the man who ruined her is out to get her dowry by any means possible.
March 26, 2025
An amazing story on how two people must overcome tragedy from their past in order to move forward. Rafael and Krya face betrayal, death, kidnapping, and a horrible villain as they come together in this very emotional based story. Beautifully written with a well paced plot.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2025
Two very vulnerable, broken hearts must heal and mend for a hea in Sweeter Than Sin. Kyra and Rafael each have their wounds that cut deep. When they meet, they form a tentative bond and undertake the task of translating Rafaels grandmother's recipes into English. Slowly, through their mutual support, they open up and fall in love.
It was a slow burn, but it was very thoughtfully written book.
It was a slow burn, but it was very thoughtfully written book.
April 2, 2025
The past and chocolate..
I really liked Rafael, who was greatly influenced by his Spanish grandmother and her knowledge of chocolate. He’s a former soldier with guilt and a desire to write a chocolate cookbook. 5 stars.
Kyra was a spoiled, willful brat whose actions caused the death of her sister. Didn’t care for her.
I really liked Rafael, who was greatly influenced by his Spanish grandmother and her knowledge of chocolate. He’s a former soldier with guilt and a desire to write a chocolate cookbook. 5 stars.
Kyra was a spoiled, willful brat whose actions caused the death of her sister. Didn’t care for her.
January 3, 2020
Chocolate Yum
I enjoyed reading this story about Rafael de Villafranca Greeley., Lady Kyra Pinnell, and of course. Hero who will eventually save the day.
I believe that anyone would enjoy this book.
I enjoyed reading this story about Rafael de Villafranca Greeley., Lady Kyra Pinnell, and of course. Hero who will eventually save the day.
I believe that anyone would enjoy this book.
March 26, 2025
Enjoyable
A truly enjoyable story. How to be wooed by chocolates, the descriptions of the fillings had me wanting to sample them. Once started I did not want to put it down, a really feel good read. I am looking forward to reading Jacks story next.
A truly enjoyable story. How to be wooed by chocolates, the descriptions of the fillings had me wanting to sample them. Once started I did not want to put it down, a really feel good read. I am looking forward to reading Jacks story next.
April 4, 2025
Sweeter Than Sin -Chocolate
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! So far a very enjoyable series. A sweet love story with a real bad guy. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! So far a very enjoyable series. A sweet love story with a real bad guy. I look forward to the next book in this series.
May 5, 2025
I loved this story of redemption and true love.
Lady Kyra Sterling, the Duke of Pierpont’s oldest daughter, was an impetuous and free spirit, until one very tragic evening. The evening left her clinging to life and the death of a dear loved one. It also landed her in a scandal and no longer betrothed. She retreated from society and stayed at her family's country estate. Her father worried about her and since her mother had passed years before, he was not sure how to help her.
Rafael de Villefranca Greeley is a wounded war veteran from Spain, A Count in his own right and nephew to the Earl of Hendrie. He is also a chocolate savant and is trying to write a book based on his grandmother's stories and recipes revolving around chocolate.
This is a story of healing, physically, mentally and emotionally. Both Kyra and Rafael have ghosts they are trying to appease and vanquish. Through chocolate they find the peace they each seek and a love for each other. It is a lovely story of two people helping each other learn to soar again.
I am looking forward to more stories both in this series and by Ms. Pickens.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lady Kyra Sterling, the Duke of Pierpont’s oldest daughter, was an impetuous and free spirit, until one very tragic evening. The evening left her clinging to life and the death of a dear loved one. It also landed her in a scandal and no longer betrothed. She retreated from society and stayed at her family's country estate. Her father worried about her and since her mother had passed years before, he was not sure how to help her.
Rafael de Villefranca Greeley is a wounded war veteran from Spain, A Count in his own right and nephew to the Earl of Hendrie. He is also a chocolate savant and is trying to write a book based on his grandmother's stories and recipes revolving around chocolate.
This is a story of healing, physically, mentally and emotionally. Both Kyra and Rafael have ghosts they are trying to appease and vanquish. Through chocolate they find the peace they each seek and a love for each other. It is a lovely story of two people helping each other learn to soar again.
I am looking forward to more stories both in this series and by Ms. Pickens.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2021
I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for my honest review. I am always happy to recommend a novel written by a talented author new to me who happens to be a wonderful storyteller. Sweeter than Sin is the novel and Andrea Pickens is the wonderful storyteller. When you have read as many historical romance novels as I have through the years, you sometimes think there is nothing in that genre that can surprise you, and I am so glad to be proven wrong by authors like Ms. Pickens. Her hero Rafael and heroine Kyra are so refreshingly real, honest, and vulnerable. These two people are drawn to each other because of the underlying guilt they both feel about past actions and the need for friendship and acceptance on both their parts. The supporting cast of characters that include family, other new friendships, a rescued mongrel puppy, and a villain that you'll love to hate, makes this an unforgettable story with a well written plot and a heartwarming conclusion. This book is part of a 3 book series, but can be read as a standalone and has no cliffhanger.
July 28, 2016
This was a sweet romance with the theme of second chances and moving past our mistakes. Andrea Pickens also shows that true friendship is able to overlook our faults and mistakes. Both Rafael and Kyra are haunted by their pasts. Rafael believes that he is responsible for his cousin’s death on the battlefield and Krya believes that she is unworthy of happiness after her sister’s death. The theme that love in all forms (romantic, familial and friendship) make life worth living, even after tragedy, gives the book a warm feel. The characters are relatable and the dialogue fresh.
I really enjoyed the writing style of Ms. Pickens and will definitely pick up some other works by her. The only things keeping me from giving this a five-star rating were some grammatical errors and editorial inconsistencies.
I received this book free from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the writing style of Ms. Pickens and will definitely pick up some other works by her. The only things keeping me from giving this a five-star rating were some grammatical errors and editorial inconsistencies.
I received this book free from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2016
This story has an impetuous heroine who learns the hard way that her actions have consequences. Kyra becomes a shadow of herself until she meets Rafael. As she begins to live again, she also finds that some people are willing to overlook your past and like you for who you are. Both Kyra and Rafael experience death and guilt around them which gives them a connection to start their relationship. The tenderness of their budding romance was sweet to experience. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. I look forward to reading more of this series as the characters were strong and I hope to see more.
I received a copy of this story through eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this story through eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2016
I love Regency romance, and this was an adequate book. The many errors were distracting, but I did enjoy the story. A disgraced Lady, a scoundrel, two war heroes, a heroic canine, and very good friends led to s lively good time.
I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2016
I liked this book. I thought it was sweet and a throughly enjoyable read. I would have liked it to be a bit longer, have more character development. it was a little tame in terms of suspense or real action, but I enjoyed the read. This was the first book I read by this author, and I am happy to keep reading her books.
"I received this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review."
"I received this book from eBook Discovery in exchange for an honest review."
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